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+ Raulerson hosts chili cook-off Raulerson & Company had its first Halloween chili cook-off Friday, Oct. 31. A few clients stopped by to be judges: David Galloway, of David H. Galloway, P.A.; Mark Poppell, of Poppell Insurance; Tom Kern and Robert Ladd, of Plant City Produce; and a few staff members of Dr. Christopher Berchellmann’s office. The majority voted for a recipe from April Messick, of Raulerson & Company. Raulerson & Company is at a new location, 1907 S. Alexander St., Suite 2. It moved from its previous office off of Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in October.
SPORTS
REAL ESTATE
PAGE 12
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Two Plant City schools take on playoffs.
Students rope in success at National FFA Convention.
OUR TOWN
FREE • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014
A home in Walden Lake topped the list in October.
m.i.a. by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Four-wheeler missing after Romp in the Swamp The Plant City Police Department has been working on the case, but has not yet made an arrest. A fundraiser for the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation could end up cutting into proceeds instead. After this year’s Romp in the Swamp mud run, equipment belonging to South Florida Baptist Hospital was stolen. It will cost
the hospital more than $6,000, if staff decide to replace it. Each year, the 5K course is full of natural and man-made obstacles, and many participants run in costumes. This year’s event was Saturday, Nov. 1, at 2302 Henderson Way, a
water truck. The water truck belongs to Wetherington Tractor Service, but the hospital had owned the ATV. “Everything was locked up,” said Beverley Littlejohn, a spokeswoman for the hospital. “The site where the event took place covers hundreds of acres and it’s locked and gated,
field owned by Sunrise Homes. When hospital staff went back to the site to collect equipment the morning of Monday, Nov. 3, they discovered that a Husqvarna ATV was missing, along with some batteries that had been on the
SEE THEFT / PAGE 4
CRIME
THANK YOU
by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
Plant City officer shoots, kills man
Trung Thanh Do, 31, was seen stabbing Maria De Los Angeles inside a house thought to be set on fire by him.
+ Dogs paw way onto fairgrounds The Brandon Florida Kennel Club’s Sixth and Seventh Shows were held on Oct. 25 and 26 at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds. Best in Show Oct. 25 went to Grand Champion Ne Orageux’s Flash Point, a female briard owned by Merry Jeanne and Tommy Millner. She was show by handler, Joan Scott. The briard won over an entry of 756 dogs. The judge was David Bolus. Best in Show Oct. 26 went to Grand Champion Cragsmoor Good Time Charlie, a male skye terrier owned by Victor Malzoni Jr. and Cragsmoor Kennels Reg. He was shown by professional handler, Larry Cornelius. The skye terrier won over an entry of 773 dogs. The Judge was James R. White. The trophy presenter for both shows was Don Meyer, the son of Bill Meyer, photographer. Both shows were dedicated to Bill Meyer’s memory.
, 3&
This week’s winner is
Ana Boxtha
See her photo on PAGE 15.
Courtesy photo
A small security vehicle owned by the hospital has disappeared since it was seen at Romp in the Swamp.
Plant City police officers were able to do more than just save two children from a residential fire off Maryland Avenue Tuesday, Nov. 11. Officer James Burchett arrived at the scene of a house fire early Tuesday and shot and killed Trung Thanh Do, 31, who was stabbing Maria De Los Angeles Romano, 43, inside the home. At about 4 a.m., the Plant City Police Department received a 911 call referencing a residential structure fire at 107 Maryland Ave. S., across the street from Marshall Middle School. Details from the caller indicated that four people were inside of the home. Upon police arrival, the car port and a portion of the home were ablaze. Police entered the residence through the front door. Once inside, two females — an 18-year-old woman and 13-year-old girl — were found and taken to safety. They told officers that Romano was being assaulted by Do inside a locked bedroom. Burchett went outside and walked around the home to the bedroom window, where he observed Do stabbing Romano. Burchett gave repeated commands for Do to stop. Those commands were ignored, and Burchett fired a single shot that killed Do, Chief Ed Duncan said. Romano was in stable condition at a local hospital with stab wounds. The teenage girl and 18-year-old woman were uninjured. Joining the Plant City officers at the scene were agents from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Amber Jurgensen
Women from all branches of the military came to a ceremony honoring their service on Saturday, Nov. 8, at Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park. Veterans Day was Tuesday, Nov. 11. For more Veterans Day coverage go to page 6.
inner beauty by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
Turkey Creek Middle School preps for its first Calendar Girls pageant The pageant will give students an opportunity to shine as well as raise funds for school programs. The Calendar Girls pageant popular at area high schools will now be brought to Turkey Creek Middle School. The first pageant will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the school’s multipurpose room. “Why should all the high schools have all the fun? This will get them going,” organizer Julie Hasting said. Hasting and Amanda Duncan are organizing the pageant. The idea started as an FFA sweetheart pageant. But they wanted to have an event where the whole student body could participate. “It’s great,” Duncan said. “It prepares them for high
TURKEY CREEK MIDDLE SCHOOL CALENDAR GIRLS When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15 Where: Turkey Creek Middle School, 5005 S. Turkey Creek Road Cost: $10 school, but (also with) a lot of local pageants going on. They can use their dresses more than once.” Not only will it give them practice for the high school Calendar Girls, its main function is a fundraiser. One of the
things organizer would like to use the money raised for is end of the year sports banquets, which the school has not been able to fund. To make it affordable for all contestants, they will only have to sell four business card ads for $15 each and 10 calendars at $15 each. Hasting and principal Fredda Johnson both have bought business sponsors. Hasting stressed the affordability aspect of the pageant. “Some of the girls won’t be able to do this in high school because it’s expensive,” Hasting said.
Johnson was a little hesitant about the pageant at first. But Hasting has taken a liking to calling it a “Confidence Pageant.” “I’m not from a pageant background,” Johnson said. “But once they laid it out, I felt comfortable. I want it to be fair. This is something that helps the girls realize it’s not just their
SEE CALENDAR / PAGE 4
INDEX Calendar.......................2
SEE SHOOTING / PAGE 4 Vol. 2, No. 17 | One section
Crossword...................15
Obituaries...................11
Weather ......................15
Sports.........................12
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COMMUNITYCALENDAR FRIDAY, NOV. 14 Christian Contemporary Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220. Double Barrel Band — live music takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Friday, Nov. 14, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Girls Night Out — takes place from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, in Historic Downtown. Many shops will be open with special sales and food and drinks. There will also be prize giveaways. South Pacific — takes place from Nov. 14 to 16 at Plant City Entertainment, 101 N. Thomas St. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and students, and $10 for members. Visit pceshows.com. Springhead Fall Fest — takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at Springhead Elementary, 3208 Nesmith Road. Uncork Your Weekend with Daniel Sprouse — live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752- 9100.
SATURDAY, NOV. 15 Car Show — takes place from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, in Historic Downtown. (813) 754-3707. Double Shot — live music takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 15, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Third Annual Holiday Gift Expo — takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the Strawberry Festival Expo Hall, 2501 W. Oak Ave. Holiday characters will arrive at 11 a.m. Raffles and a children’s craft are part of the fun. Bring an unwrapped toy or monetary donation to benefit
the Mason Dixon Christmas Wish Foundation. (727) 6741464. Turkey Creek Middle School Calendar Girl — takes place Saturday, Nov. 10. Uncork Your Weekend with Project Voyager — live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 7529100.
TUESDAY, NOV. 18 Reception for Committee on Sustainability — takes place beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, at the Plant City Photo Archives & History Center, 106 S. Evers St. Find out more about the committee and enjoy a wine and cheese reception. (813) 754-1578
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19 Cole Brothers Circus — takes place from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, and Thursday, Nov. 20, at Sun’n Fun Fly-In, 4175 Medulla Road. Microsoft Office Publisher — takes place beginning at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Registration will start one hour before class. Limited to 10 people. Open Mic Night — live music takes place beginning at 8 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 19, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.
THURSDAY, NOV. 20 Awards Ceremony — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at the Olin S. Wright Masonic Lodge, 304 Arcadia Drive. The lodge will recognize local members of the school district and law enforcement. Who’s the Man? Father and Child Development Playgroup — takes place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20
To publicize your event in our Community Calendar, please send by mail: 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A, Plant City, FL 33563; or by email: ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday.
at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St.
E. S.R. 60, Plant City. (813) 737-4444. Gator Cutlery Club — meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month, at Linda’s Crab Shack, 200 E. Reynolds St. Anyone interested in knives is welcome to attend. Dan, (813) 967-1471.
FRIDAY, NOV. 21 Christian Contemporary Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220. Gravity Down — live music takes place beginning at 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Friday, Nov. 21, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 7648818. Pig Jam — takes place Nov. 21 to 22 at the Randy Larson Softball Four-Plex, 1900 South Park Road. Sample some of the best BBQ in the country. Live entertainment, vendors and kids activities. Parking is $5 per vehicle and admission is free. (813) 754-3707. Uncork Your Weekend with Nathan Drawdy — live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752- 9100.
SATURDAY, NOV. 22 Dueling Pianos — takes place from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Koren’s Quarter Craft Show — takes place Nov. 22 to Nov. 23 at at Koren’s Quarters Covered Arena, 1120 Swilley Road. KorensQuarters.net. Uncork Your Weekend with Southern Legacy — live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 7529100.
ONGOING 1961 PCHS Planter Classmates Monthly Dutchtreat Lunch — takes place at 1 p.m. the last Thursday of each month, at Outback
GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City — meets at 11 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month, at the clubhouse, 1110 N. Wheeler St. Line Dancing Lessons — takes place from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, 106 E. S.R. 60, Plant City. (813) 7374444.
BEST BET Dancing with the Locals — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at the John R. Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road. Enjoy an opening reception with an open bar before the dance competition. The event benefits the Noon Rotary Club of Plant City. Steakhouse, 1203 Townsgate Court, Plant City. ACCESS and KidCare — takes place from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 752-8700. Babytime — takes place from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Thursdays, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215. Black-and-White Nite — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Thursdays, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Vintage sitcoms and sci-fi from the 50s and 60s are played on a large drop-down screen. (813) 752-1220. Beginner Square Dance Lessons — classes take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mondays, at Strawberry Square, 4401 Promenade Blvd., Plant City. First class is free. Plus Square Dance Lessons begin from 8 to 9:30 p.m. (813) 752 0491. Berry Patch Quilt Guild
— meets from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesdays, at First Presbyterian Church of Plant City, 404 W. Reynolds St. Use the entrance on Thomas Street. Elaine Green, (813) 763-7353. Blood Pressure Checks — takes place from 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, at South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 644-6720. Cholesterol Screenings — available from 2 to 3 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month, at South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St., Plant City. Cost is $30. (813) 644-6720.
Plant City Civitan Club — meets at 7 a.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month, at Buddy Freddy’s Restaurant, 1101 Goldfinch Drive, Plant City. For more information, call (813) 754-4680. Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club — meets at 7 a.m. Mondays, at the Community Conference Center at South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St. For more, visit plantcitydaybreakrotary. com. Plant City Lions Club — meets at 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays, at Buddy Freddy’s, 1101 Goldfinch Drive. For more information, visit plantcitylions.org. Plant City Noon Rotary Club — meets at 12:15 p.m. Mondays, at HCC Plant City’s John R. Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road, Plant City.
Duplicate Bridge — meets at 1 p.m. Fridays, at St. Peters Episcopal Church, 302 Carey St., Plant City. Players must have partners. Walt Arnold, (813) 752-1602.
Plant City Sunday Scrappers — meet from 2:30 to 5 p.m. Sundays. Bring your own project, plus make quilts for donations. Linda Hill, (813) 856-6120.
Friday Night Fun — Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill will offer karaoke, cornhole tournaments, a deejay, darts and more beginning at 7 p.m. Fridays, at the restaurant, 106
Republican Club of Plant City — meets at 7:15 a.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month, at Buddy Freddy’s Restaurant, 1101 Goldfinch Drive, Plant City.
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happy campers by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
New RV dealership opens in Dover General RV is a family-owned company with 11 locations nationwide. A new business has come to Florida’s “RV corridor” to focus on sales and service for RV enthusiasts of Tampa Bay and central Florida. General RV opened Saturday, Oct. 11, in Dover, after about two years of plans and preparations. It is one of two locations in Florida; the other is in Jacksonville. The Dover store’s general manager, Jason Cohen, has been in Tampa Bay for about 20 years, and for 17 of them, he has worked in RV sales. “They call it the ‘RV corridor’ over here,” Cohen said. “It’s the RV capital of the world, really.” Florida has a higher percentage of RV registrations than anywhere else in the country. General RV has about 150 vehicles for sale on-site, including motorhomes, toy haulers, fifth wheels, travel trailers and pop-up campers. The dealership carries brands such as Coachmen, Fleet-
Courtesy photo
Plant City native Jared Jirau is a sales consultant at General RV. wood, Thor, Jayco and many others. But the business also focuses on RV maintenance. Available services include oil changes, paint touch-ups, winterizing and complete trailer maintenance.
“We’re mainly focused on RV service, and we saw that there was a need for that in the area,” Cohen said. Cohen said one of the reasons he has enjoyed managing the store is that General
RV is a family-owned business. “The customers have really received us well,” he said. “Because we’re family-owned — we’re not a corporation — we’re able to sell our RVs cheaper than other dealers.” The Dover location has created jobs for 55 employees, including sales consultant Jared Jirau. Jirau is a Plant City native who used to co-own a used car dealership with his father. “Working in this environment similar to that environment with my dad has been phenomenal so far,” Jirau said. Jirau also enjoys working with a variety of customers and helping them find products that fit their needs. “I help people find exactly what they’re looking for, whether they’ve been planning for it two weeks, or they’ve dreamt about it for 20 years, looking forward to retirement,” he said.
GENERAL RV Location: 13396 E. U.S. Highway 92, Dover Phone: (813) 305-2500 Sales Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; No RV service available on Sundays. Nationwide, General RV has 11 locations, the majority of which are in Michigan. Ambrose Baidas opened General RV’s first location, then known as General Trailer, in 1968 in Southfield, Michigan. Richard Baidas, Ambrose’s son, joined the business in 1972 and was inducted into the RV Hall of Fame in 2009. General RV offers Deals of the Week that are always changing. To see this week’s deal, visit GeneralRV.com/ deal-of-the-week. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
AGRICULTURE by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Sophomores from Plant City High School acted out a town hall meeting during their Agriculture Issues presentation.
Courtesy photo
Plant City-area students place at National FFA Convention
Teams from Durant High School and Plant City High School were honored with awards. RESULTS Student: Mylie Feaster Event: Job Interview School: Durant High School (May 2014) Placement: Top 8; Gold Emblem Students: Arie Fry, Benji Padgett, Megan Todd, Taylor Grimes, Lauren Schism, Gresham Stephens, Ashlyn Yarbrough Event: Agriculture Issues School: Plant City High School Placement: Top 16; Silver Emblem Students: Alyssa Shepherd, Clint Walden, Kaitlyn Taylor, Keri Greenwood, Mariah Kunze, Haley Burleson Event: Parliamentary Procedure School: Durant High School Placement: Bronze Emblem
It was a year of victory for Plant City-area students who attended the National FFA Convention. This year’s convention was held Oct. 29 to Nov. 1, in Louisville, Kentucky, and some local students were strong enough competitors to place highly among the record-breaking 64,000 students in attendance. Plant City High School students had not competed at the national level in more than 10 years, but seven PCHS sophomores went to the convention to compete as an Agriculture Issues team. Advisers LeighAnn Cason and Tiffany Parrish joined them. “They’re just such a young team, competing against kids that were freshmen in college now, and they still held their own,” Parrish said. The team placed 16th in the nation. Their presentation explored the pros and cons of Paladin, a controversial soil fumigant that has been applied in many local strawberry fields for the past two growing seasons. They acted out a town meeting, with one student presiding as mayor, three representing community members who supported the use of Paladin and the remaining three offering arguments against its use. “I really did feel like I was sit-
FAIR WINNERS Two local FFA girls also won awards at the 2014 Hillsborough County Fair Swine Show and Sale against 82 other exhibitors Friday, Oct. 24. Marissa Zolna, of the Marshall FFA chapter, won the Montana Silversmith ting in a town hall meeting,” Parrish said. “They had arguments, and they seemed real.” Two local students also stood out for their individual achievements at this year’s convention. Mylie Feaster, a 2014 graduate of Durant High School, attended the convention for her fourth time. She was on Durant’s state-winning Parlia-
buckle for outstanding showmanship in the Intermediate Showmanship division, and Keylee Christie, of the Plant City Senior FFA chapter, won the Montana Silversmith buckle in the Senior Showmanship division. mentary Procedure team this year, but instead of competing in Parliamentary Procedure at the national level, she decided to compete in Job Interview. As a Job Interview competitor, Feaster placed eighth in the nation. The competition included four separate in-person interviews, a phone interview, a follow-up letter and a networking meeting. Feaster
completed each task as though she were applying for a position as a graphic design artist. “The FFA really instills hard work ethic in you, especially when it comes to contests,” Feaster said. “It gives you that initiative.” Feaster also served as one of seven state officers selected from Florida this year. She contributed to the team as the state vice president. “It really prepares you for the work force, and to be able to work with people who aren’t necessarily just like you,” Feaster said. Another local graduate, Victoria Harris, also served as a state officer this year. Harris graduated from Strawberry Crest High School this May. She joined an agriculture class as a sophomore. “I’m the first person in my family to be in the FFA, but I really fell in love with the organization,” Harris said. She was surprised to have been selected as a presidential candidate, and then chosen as the state secretary. “I was kind of an underdog, not coming from an agricultural area,” she said. “It was definitely a humbling experience.” Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
governance by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
City wins award from Hillsborough Planning Commission The award was a result of the opening of the railroad museum and viewing platform. The Hillsborough County Planning Commission has recognized Plant City’s efforts to build up the community while preserving the past, and as of this week, the City of Plant City has a new trophy in its case. Each year, the Planning Commission honors local governments for recent projects that have demonstrated excellence in planning and design. At the 32nd annual awards ceremony Oct. 30, Plant City was named the winner of an award for investment in public-private partnership, and specifically, for historic preservation. The city won the award based on its support and success regarding the train viewing platform and Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, which opened in February. Gary Pike, a planning commissioner and Plant City resident, presented the trophy to the city commissioners at their meeting Monday, Nov. 10. “Both the viewing platform and railroad museum have become major attractions for train enthusiasts,” Pike said. “If you’re not waiting for a train, you see other people waiting for a train. It has absolutely brought people here.” In 2012, city commissioner Mike Sparkman applied for a $25,000 grant from CSX to start work on the viewing platform. The remaining $205,000 for museum construction was privately raised. No tax dollars were used. Pike said he did not know of any other Planning Commission award winners this year whose projects were funded entirely by private dollars. The judges who selected Plant City as the winner of the award were: Merle Bishop, a certified public manager with 40 years of experience; Mary Kay Peck Delk, a past national president of the American Planning Association; and Jim Ward, sustainable development coordinator for the Orange County Planning Division. “The judges said they loved the project, and it was a way to keep on track the city’s heritage,” Pike said. “They complimented us on extensive community involvement, donation of time, money created, private partnership that excelled all others.” Last year, Plant City won an award from the Planning Commission for its redevelopment of Plant City Suncoast Community Health Center, and in 2012, for construction on the County Courthouse. City Commissioner Mary Mathis expects the success to continue. “Next year, after we finish the Midtown project, I could see us bringing home another trophy. Our trophy case is getting kind of full out there,” she said. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
IN OTHER NEWS • City manager Mike Herr updated the commission on his efforts to get to know Plant City and its citizens. His next civic visit will be to the Lions Club meeting Nov. 25. • Herr hopes to establish an annual Economic Summit to discuss business and financial trends in Plant City. This event is in only a conceptual planning stage as of now. • The commission approved a resolution authorizing the purchase of 10 new tazers and accessories for the police department.
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SWAMP MONSTERS by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
Runners brave swamp for charity race A three-week flurry of Plant City mud runs came to an end on Saturday, Nov. 1, with Romp in the Swamp II. Sponsored by the Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the South Florida Baptist Hos-
pital, the run attracted 450 participants. There was even a costume contest, which was so close that it had to be decided by a game of “Rock, Paper, Scissors.”
Anthony Rosado put his climbing skills to the test. Randy and Zoey Rosado ran the final leg of the course together.
Left: The youngest runners were let loose on their own special course.
Despite the cold weather, runners were all smiles.
THEFT / PAGE 1 and so they don’t know how the perpetrators removed the items from the site.” The police report from the incident describes the vehicle as a hard top cab with a light bar on top. It was painted orange with a blue tailgate, and the word “security” in white. According to the police
report, the ATV’s value was estimated at $6,000. Insurance covered liability for participants, but it did not cover equipment. Littlejohn said staff had not yet calculated how much money Romp in the Swamp had raised for the hospital. “The hospital is going to decide at a later date whether or not to replace the four-wheel-
er,” Littlejohn said. “They’re waiting for the police to finish the investigation and see what comes of that.” The hospital will have to reimburse Wetherington Tractor Service for the missing batteries, however. No police report was prepared regarding the batteries, and staff at Wetherington Tractor Service were not sure how much the batter-
ies were worth. Employees of Sunrise Homes did not have any additional information about the incident. If you have information regarding the stolen equipment, contact the Plant City Police Department at (813) 757-9200. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
SHOOTING / PAGE 1 Burchett is a five-year veteran of the department. He served for seven years previously with the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, located in Chatham, Virginia. Pursuant to departmental policy, Burchett has been placed on administrative leave, while the FDLE investigation is conducted. The fire was put out, police spokesman Sergeant Al Van Duyne said. There was damage to the house. The State Fire Marshall responded to the scene and will be conducting an Arson investigation. At this time, the fire is believed to have been set by Do. This is an active investigation and more information will be released as it becomes available.
CALENDAR / PAGE 1 outside presence but what’s on the inside that counts.” All girls competing will be featured in the calendar whether in a group shot or as a month or cover girl. The public speaking portion will be 40% of the judging.
The fire burned the home and carport, as well as two vehicles in the driveway.
“If these girls get up there and have the confidence, then there is no better or worse,” Duncan said. A modeling agent will come coach the girls on modeling techniques versus pageant walks to emphasize the contestants’ natural beauty and movements.
All the judges will be from out of town. Michael Cameron from Cameron Financial Management will be the tabulator, and Jennifer Morgan and Lisa Harris Tucker will be emcees. National Honors Society students and FFA officers will escort the girls the night of the pageant.
Catherine Sinclair
“It’s a good way to show school spirit,” Johnson said. “It will really unify the school. We’re middle school and we’re proud.” Tickets will be $10 at the door. Contact Amber Jurgensent at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.
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Nick’s Pizza
Q&A WITH JIMBO SPARKS, OWNER
What kind of services can Nick’s Pizza offer the community? My business offers awesome, authentic New York style pizza and many other great menu items at a fair price. We offer dine-in, take-out and delivery. My business also donates food to charities, sponsors youth sports and gives discounts to schools and churches in the area. What specials are you running? We run specials such as “All You Can Eat Wings” on Monday nights from 5 to 9 p.m. (dine-in only). Nick’s has daily lunch specials starting at $4.99. On Wednesdays, kids eat free. We also have dine-in specials on pizza that vary from week to week. What is Nick’s motto or mission and why? Our business motto is: Nothing frozen but the ice! We make food we are proud of and take pride in providing a quality product at a reasonable price. How many employees do you have? Nick’s Pizza started with two employees and now employs 12 local employees. Can you describe your customers? Our customers are a veritable mix of local Plant City residents who enjoy receiving awesome customer service and a great product with a personal touch. They vary from high-end bankers and real estate brokers to blue collar laborers. All of our customers receive the same great service and are treated with the utmost respect.
COPS The following information was gathered from incident and arrest reports obtained from the Plant City Police Department.
OCT. 25
DOUBLE CHECK
600 block of Maryland Avenue. Uttering Forged Check. Officer responded to grocer and met with an employee who advised that a female suspect cashed a fraudulent AT&T check for $1,083.00.
OCT. 30
UNSAFE SAFE
2200 block of West Oak Avenue. Theft. Staff advised an unknown person entered an interior office in the morning and took $250 cash from the safe.
COP-OUT COPPER
Airport Rd/Alexander St. Theft. Reportee referenced the theft of copper from a construction site, which is valued at $300.
TOPLESS PAINTER
1000 block of East Alsobrook Street. Criminal Mischief. A 29foot enclosed trailer was damaged by someone who attempted to cut into the top and spray painted it. The owner estimates the damage to be $3,000.
CHEESY CROOK
2100 block of North Pard Road. Petit Theft. A visa debit card number was used by someone to order about $30.00 in pizza.
SHOTS FIRED
South Maryland Ave/East Ohio St. Shooting with Injury. Upon arrival, officers met with a victim who advised that he had been shot during an altercation.
What is your background? Professional? Education? My background is some college, after high school, with 30 plus years in the hospitality/food service/bar industry. Where do you see your business in the next five years? In the next five years I hope to remain a wellestablished and continually growing business in Plant City, continuing to provide community support and engagement, and employing, and thereby providing, income for local residents. What is your secret to success? The secret to Nick’s success is no secret: hard work, strong marketing, being active in community events,
PLANT CITY
What is your management style? My management style is to lead by example. I provide hands-on training and treat my staff as I would like to be treated. I do not ask anything of my staff that I would not do myself. I’m a pick-thatnapkin-up-myself instead of hey-you-pick-that-up guy.
NOV. 1
A REAL WINNER
2800 of block of Thonotosassa Road. Petit Theft. Officers responded to this store in reference to an unknown male that had the clerk get $205 worth of Florida lottery tickets from the display. The suspect then grabbed the lottery tickets and fled the store.
traffic stop on a black Volkswagen Jetta that pulled in front of the officer, which almost caused a traffic crash. The driver was contacted, and it was determined that he did not have a drivers license or any form of identification. He was later transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.
DUDE, WHERE’S MY CAR?
1300 Block of East Laura Street. Residential Burglary/Stolen Vehicle. Officers responded to the residence in reference to a burglary. Upon arrival, officers met with the complainant who stated an unknown person(s) entered the residence through a broken window. Numerous electronics and jewelry were taken from the home. Also, a black 2003 Dodge Ram pickup truck with a Virginia tag was stolen.
NOV. 1
LAP OF LUXURY
1700 block of West Ball Street. Vehicle Burglary. Overnight, an unknown person(s) entered an unlocked 2006 black Mercedes Benz and stole the victim’s wallet and Smith and Wesson .40 caliber semi automatic pistol.
DRIVING ON RIMS
2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Robbery. The suspected robber fled prior to police arrival, striking multiple parked vehicles.
WHO ARE YOU?
BYOB
1800 Block James L. Redman Parkway. Not Valid Driver License. Officers conducted a
What kind of restaurant culture do you promote? Nick’s promotes a relaxed, casual atmosphere. This is a family friendly, come-asyou-are restaurant. Everyone feels comfortable and welcome.
CORNER
2300 block of West Moody Avenue Grand Theft. An unknown person(s) stole all four rims and tires off a red Mitsubishi Montero SUV. The SUV was left on blocks. The tires and rims are valued at $400.
NO SO SUBTLE GETAWAY
handing out discount cards, staying involved in the community and being at the restaurant as much as possible to connect with our customers.
4600 block of State Road 574. Petit Theft. Officers responded to the business in ref-
erence to a theft of beer. The store clerk advised two males stole a 24-pack of beer.
YOU’RE GROUNDED
South Maryland Avenue/ East Alabama Street. Resisting arrest without violence/Possession of Drugs/Drug Paraphernalia. Officers conducted a traffic stop on a maroon Chevy four-door due to window tint violation. The driver was charged with resisting arrest without violence, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. The driver was later released to his parent.
NOV. 2
QUICK TURNAROUND
1900 block of East Linda Street. Stolen/Recovered Vehicle. Officers responded to the house in reference to an unknown person(s) stealing a 2,000 green Toyota Sienna van. Later, the van was found a few blocks from the victim’s home. The van was returned to the owners. The van was not damaged.
RUNAWAY VEHICLE
1100 block of Goldfinch Drive. Stolen Vehicle. Officers responded to a restaurant in reference to the theft of a 2014 silver Chevrolet Impala. The car was left running while the victim went inside.
NOT YOURS
2600 block James L. Redman Parkway. Shoplifting. Officers met with loss prevention who stated the suspect took $84 worth of store products, and then attempted to leave without paying.
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VETERANS DAY by the Observer staff
City honors veterans All over Plant City, schools, churches and clubs honored military service members for Veterans Day Tuesday, Nov. 11. The Woman’s Club of Plant City held a ceremony Saturday, Nov. 8. But this event had a twist. The club made it a point to honor women service members of the past and present.
Rev. Dan Middlebrooks presided over the brick dedication.
The ceremony was held at the Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park on a sunny afternoon. Along with a chorus and speakers, the club asked women who have served to stand up and be recognized. After, they enjoyed a reception. Area schools were also big supporters of the military. Walden Lake Elementary and Tomlin Middle schools held receptions Friday, Nov. 7. Bryan Elementary had a Nov. 10 ceremony. Nov. 10 was also the day of the brick dedication at Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park. Family and friends gathered to see engraved bricks unveiled with the names of military service members on them.
The students at Walden Lake Elementary showed their support for the military at a Friday, Nov. 7, ceremony.
Plant City Times & Observer Locally Owned by Ed Verner, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes The Plant City Times & Observer is published by Plant City Media LLC, a joint-venture of the Tampa Bay Times and Plant City Observer LLC.
110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 704-6850 www.PlantCityObserver.com &RS\ULJKW 3ODQW &LW\ 0HGLD //& $OO 5LJKWV 5HVHUYHG
Women service members were asked to stand to be recognized at the Women’s Club veterans ceremony, Nov. 8.
Twelve bricks were unveiled at Veterans Park.
Tomlin Middle School’s drama club thanked veterans at a patriotic program Nov. 7.
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We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements. To contact us, send your information via: Email: Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@ 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 Fridays. 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.
Bryan Elementary students gathered outside for their Nov. 10 ceremony.
Plant City Times &
Observer
General Manager/Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com General Manager/Advertising / Stacey Hudson, shudson@tampabay.com Managing Editor / Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writers / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com; Catherine Sinclair, csinclair@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Executives / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@PlantCityObserver.com; Joanna Verga, jverga@tampabay.com Circulation/Office Manager / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com
“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” — Friedrich Hayek, “Road to Serfdom,” 1944
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REAL ESTATE by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
Walden Lake home tops October sales A home in Walden Lake was the top residential real-estate transaction in October. The home at 3201 Polo Place sold Oct. 7, for $550,000. Built in 1989, it has five bedrooms, three and one half bath bath and 5,244 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $104.88.
Alexander Woods
Amber Jurgensen
This home, which has five bedrooms, three and one half baths and 5,244 square feet of living area, sold for $550,000. The property is two acres.
The home at 109 Alexander Woods Drive sold Oct. 9, for $102,500. Built in 2013, it has two bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,466 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $69.22. The home at 111 Alexander Woods Drive sold Oct. 7, for $103,000. Built in 2013, it has two bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,466 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $70.26.
The home at 229 Alexander Woods Drive sold Oct. 24, for $100,000. Built in 2013, it has two bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,466 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $68.21.
B & L Oaks
The home at 4716 Cooper Road sold Oct. 10, for $50,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1995, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,056 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $47.35.
Burney
The home at 313 E. Merrick St. sold Oct. 24, for $46,500 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1918, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,168 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $27.36.
Dell Oaks
The home at 2608 Ellis Road sold Oct. 31, for $125,000. Built in 1993, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,272 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $55.02.
Dormany Oaks
The home at 310 N. Forbes Road sold Oct. 14, for $295,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,882 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $123.02.
Export Farms
The home at 1225 Gordon Oaks Drive sold Oct. 27, for $117,900 (short sale). Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,550 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $76.06.
Gordon Oaks
The home at 3747 W. Sam Allen Road sold Oct. 23, for $80,100. Built in 1995, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,303 square feet of living area on .45 acres. The price per square foot is $61.47.
Greenville
The home at 1007 W. Baker St. sold Oct. 24, for $94,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1921, it has five bedrooms, two baths and 2,458 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $38.24.
Highland Terrace
The home at 2604 N. Adams St. sold Oct. 6, for $110,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two bath and 1,299 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $84.68.
Hillsborough
The home at 705 E. Alabama St. sold Oct. 3, for $108,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,778 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $60.74. The home at 4011 Cork Road sold Oct. 29, for $235,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,342 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $100.34. The home at 6613 Five Acre Road sold Oct. 24, for $260,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,882 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $138.15. The home at 5301 Fulwood Drive sold Oct. 10, for $209,299 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,416 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $86.63. The home at 971 Haggard Road sold Oct. 21, for $285,000. Built in 1920, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,288 square feet of living area on five acres. The price per square foot is $123.43. The home at 2506 Hawk Griffin Road sold Oct. 17, for $295,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, three bath and 2,984 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $38.79. The home at 3203 Juanita Drive sold Oct. 17, for $119,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1964, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 3,068 square feet
MONTHLY SNAPSHOT Highest Sale Price: $550,000 Low Sale Price: $23,000 Average Sale Price: $151,296 Median Sale Price: $120,000 of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $38.79. The home at 715 E. Keysville Road sold Oct. 6, for $235,000. Built in 1959, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,696 square feet of living area on 10 acres. The price per square foot is $138.56. The home at 3009 McGee Road sold Oct. 14, for $181,000. Built in 1980, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,571 square feet of living area on five acres. The price per square foot is $115.21. The home at 3201 Murray Farms Loop sold Oct. 23, for $140,000. Built in 1966, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,672 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $83.73. The home at 5226 Paul Myers Lane sold Oct. 30, for $88,000 (short sale). Built in 1981, it has four bedrooms, two bath and 1,144 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $76.92. The home at 2038 Pleasant Acre Drive. sold Oct. 30, for $88,000 (short sale). Built in 1981, it has four bedrooms, two bath and 1,144 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $76.92. The home at 2103 Preservation Drive sold Oct. 31, for $175,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,546 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $112.98. The home at 3747 W. Sam Allen Road sold Oct. 23, for $80,100. Built in 1995, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,303 square feet of living area on .45 acres. The price per square foot is $61.47. The home at 4810 Smith Ryals Road sold Oct. 21, for $260,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,550 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $101.96. The home at 1118 S. Wiggins Road sold Oct. 2, for $117,000. Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,635 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $71.56.
Hollman Branch Estates
The home at 6415 Hollman Creek Court sold Oct. 10, for $54,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,800 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $30.
Island Pond Estates
The home at 3505 Keene Road sold Oct. 30, for $199,000. Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,286 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $87.05.
Little Alafia Creek Estates
The home at 3603 Alafia Creek St. sold Oct. 2, for $218,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,104 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $104.04. The home at 3623 Alafia Creek St. sold Oct. 6, for $106,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,637 square feet of living area on one acres. The price per square foot is $40.20.
Little Bit Manor
The home at 6737 Dormany Loop sold Oct. 30, for $192,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,648 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $116.50.
Magnolia Green
The home at 3802 Crystal Dew St. sold Oct. 23, for $208,990. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,807 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $74.45. The home at 3208 Magnolia Garden Drive sold Oct. 29, for $146,599 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,900 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $50.55.
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The home at 3218 Magnolia Garden Drive sold Oct. 29, for $148,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,936 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $76.45. The home at 3401 Magnolia Meadows Drive sold Oct. 28, for $58,850. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,651 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $35.65.
Pine Grove Terrace
The home at 5101 Suburban Drive sold Oct. 7, for $76,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1969, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,777 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $42.77. The home at 5008 Twin Pine Drive sold Oct. 20, for $100,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1983, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1, 927 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $51.89.
Pine Oaks Estates
The home at 1604 Hughes Drive sold Oct. 1, for $105,000. Built in 1975, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,564 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $67.14.
Pless Road
The home at 8008 Franklin Road sold Oct. 27, for $120,000. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,854 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $64.72.
Robinson Farms
The home at 726 Colson Road sold Oct. 9, for $529,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three and one half baths and 5,144 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $102.84.
Seminole Sand
The home at 709 Seminole Sand Road sold Oct. 17, for $79,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,782 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $44.33.
Shepherd
The home at 5241 Stafford Road sold Oct. 27, for $183,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,708 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $107.14.
Trapnell Ridge
The home at 3403 Berry Blossom Lane sold Oct. 20, for $90,200. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,746 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $51.66. The home at 3409 Grove Blossom Lane sold Oct. 31, for $124,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,584 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $78.85. The home at 3717 Trapnell Grove Loop sold Oct. 30, for $143,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,722 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $83.04. The home at 3704 Trapnell Ridge Drive sold Oct. 8, for $135,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,425 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $95.37.
Walden Lake
The home at 2507 Clubhouse Drive sold Oct. 17, for $330,000. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,530 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $93.48. The home at 2705 Forest Club Drive sold Oct. 29, for $275,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,702 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $101.78. The home at 2712 Golf Lake sold Oct. 27, for $185,000. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,007 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $92.18. The home at 2813 Hammock Drive sold Oct. 30, for $199,900. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, two baths and
3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP 1,936 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $76.45. The home at 4126 Longfellow Drive sold Oct. 27, for $149,900. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,345 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $85.25. The home at 1903 Paddock Drive sold Oct. 31, for $180,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,676 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $107.40. The home at 803 Sandal-
wood Drive sold Oct. 17, for $174,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,925 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $90.39. The home at 2307 Walden Place N. sold Oct. 17, for $208,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,605 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $129.60.
Walden Woods
The home at 2002 Greenwood Valley Drive sold Oct. 27, for $118,500. Built in 2008,
it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,572 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $75.38.
Washington Park
The home at 907 N. Merrin St. sold Oct. 15, for $87,000. Built in 1956, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,122 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $77.54. The home at 908 E. Tomlin St. sold Oct. 2, for $138,000. Built in 1946, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,793 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square
foot is $79.97. The home at 711 N. Warnell St. sold Oct. 24, for $48,500. Built in 1926, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,300 square feet of living area on 10,889 square feet. The price per square foot is $37.31.
Webb Ranch Acres
The home at 5017 Webb Ranch Lane sold Oct. 13, for $289,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,235 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $89.34.
Whispering Woods
The home at 2714 Walden Woods Drive sold Oct. 31, for $218,500. Built in 2010, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,588 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $84.43.
Wiggins
The home at 607 N. Knight St. sold Oct. 30, for $78,650 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1938, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 4,282 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is $18.37.
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NEWS BRIEFS Chamber honors businesses of the years ACHIEVEMENT by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
+ Fire caused by cooking grease Hillsborough County Fire Rescue responded to a report of a structure fire in Dover at about 4:40 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. The single wide trailer at 5230 East Highway 60 was found with heavy smoke and flames coming from inside. The crews were able to contain the fire and extinguish it. All occupants were evacuated prior to HCFR’s arrival. There were no injuries to civilians or personnel. The American Red Cross was initiated to help the residents with their displacement. It was determined the fire was a result of grease left unattended on the stove. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.
The Plant City Chamber of Commerce recognized five businesses at an annual dinner and awards ceremony Thursday, Nov. 6, at the John R. Trinkle Center. Unity in the Community was named Special Business of the Year for its exemplary contributions to the community. Oth-
er winners were: Growing Business of the Year: Matrix Medical Small Business of the Year: Paul’s Hand Lettering Service Mid-Size Business of the Year: Maryland Fried Chicken Large Business of the Year: The Hay Exchange
Liesta Sykes, Gwen Thomas and William Thomas
Amanda Arguijo, Eric Traylor, Ana Rodriguez, Rica Garcia and Zoraya Garcia
Donna Cade, Maribel Lorenzo, Teresa Lee and Tony Lee
Pat Stottlemeyer, Darcy Stottlemeyer and Rich Glorioso
+ P.C. man guilty of real estate scam A Tampa jury has found a Plant City man guilty for a real estate scam that spanned at least five Florida counties over the past three years. Following a prosecution by Attorney General Pam Bondi’s Office of Statewide Prosecution, Chris McDonald, 47, was found guilty on one count of organized fraud and three counts of grand theft over $100,000. McDonald identified properties that were for sale, in default or in some stage of foreclosure. He would then access the vacant residences and change the locks, renting out the properties without the knowledge or consent of the property owners. The tenants were led to believe they were participating in a “lease to own” program and would make a deposit, move in to the property, and begin monthly payments to McDonald. The lawful property owners would soon become aware of the unauthorized tenants and contact law enforcement to have them evicted. “This man exploited distressed homeowners and defrauded Floridians seeking homes, and my Office of Statewide Prosecution has ensured that he has been held accountable for these crimes,” Attorney General Pam Bondi said. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Hillsborough, Hernando and Pasco county sheriff’s offices and United States Postal Inspector’s Office were also involved in arresting Chris McDonald for his role in the scam. McDonald will be sentenced on Dec. 7, 2014.
Linda Skillern and Lizzette Sarria
have a drink by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
Paddy Wagon Irish Pub comes to Plant City On Friday, Oct. 17, Paddy Wagon Irish Pub opened its doors in the Strawberry Plaza. first experience with the franchise. Becky worked at the Linksters on U.S. Highway 98 North for two and one half years before getting the itch to own her own bar. She and Lee, a manager at the Northern Star Generation plant in Bartow, had enough money saved in the bank to make it happen, and they opted to go with the luck of the Irish. “Paddy Wagon has more beer,” Bland says. “And, the Irish pub, St. Paddy’s Day, it’s a fun theme. Linksters has more of a golf theme.”
At 2:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, Becky and Lee Bland were informed that their paperwork had processed, and they could open their first bar. Two and one half hours later, Paddy Wagon Irish Pub was open for business. “It was nail-biting,” Becky Bland said. “We wanted to open up the week before, but it didn’t work out.” Although the Blands started the bar with little fanfare — mostly advertising through Facebook posts and word of mouth — Becky says the past weeks have seen good business.
EXPANDING THE BRAND
Paddy Wagon is a Floridabased franchise, which one could call a “sister bar” to Linksters Tap Room. Anyone who’s gone out for a few drinks in Tampa, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bradenton, Davenport, Port Charlotte or Sarasota has likely seen or entered one of these bars. The Paddy Wagon franchise
Justin Kline
Paddy Wagon owner Becky Bland works the bar, as well as the books. has been expanding quickly as of late, with Plant City being the newest location. Winter Haven’s pub opened on Cypress Gardens Boulevard just a few months ago. According to Bland, there was already an interest in opening one of the bars in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World before she
and her husband even got here. “We live in Lakeland, but there’s nothing like this in Plant City,” she said. “So, we wanted to branch out this way.”
FIRST-TIMERS
This is the Blands’ first time owning a bar, but not their
THE RUNDOWN
The pub occupies two units in the Strawberry Plaza, formerly home to a martial arts school and Hookah King II, which has moved to the other side of Staples. Paddy Wagon doesn’t serve food — unless someone’s hungry for peanuts — but the pub does have 20 beers on tap. In addition to all of the domestic favorites and Guinness, one
IF YOU GO WHERE: 1852 James L. Redman Pkwy. HOURS: 12 p.m. to 2 a.m. (Mon.-Sat.), 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. (Sunday) SPECIALS: Happy Hour from 12 to 7 p.m.; Customers can use their cell phones to text a special code and receive a BOGO drink special. See Paddy Wagon’s Facebook page or outdoor sign for more details. WEBSITE: Facebook.com/ Paddywagon8 can order Keel and Curley’s 7-Mile Bridge IPA and Cigar City’s Florida Cracker Ale and Jai Alai IPA. On Oct. 30, Bland added two TVs to the outdoor patio area, which will also see plenty of use in corn hole tournaments. She said that she also hopes to start darts and pool leagues fairly soon. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobser ver. com.
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OBSERVEROBITUARIES Mary Kathleen “Kat” Absher
Mary Kathleen “Kat” Absher, 67, of Lithia, died Nov. 9, 2014. She is survived by her children, Rick, Robyn, Ronnie and Renee; brother, Terry Edwards; and six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her children, Christopher, Sonny and Marc. A celebration of life was held Nov. 12, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Charlotte A. Allen
Charlotte A. Allen, 92, of Plant City, died Oct. 24, 2014. Ms. Allen was born to Roy and Viva (Griffin) Alexander. She is survived by her loving family. Condolences may be offered at WellsMemorial.com.
Ned “Randy” Akens
Ned “Randy” Akens, 69, of Plant City, died Oct. 29, 2014. He was born the son of Norval and Ruby, Nov. 11, 1944, in Glencoe, Alabama. He graduated from Glencoe High School. After serving his country as a pilot in the Army Air Corp, he received his bachelor’s degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He went on to spend many years working in the insurance industry with Allstate and Prudential. He retired from Polk County Water Department as a Water Operator in 2012. Aside from work, he greatly enjoyed flying, sailing, camping, snorkeling and traveling. He was never one to sit when there were new places to be explored. Mr. Akens loved his family and his life centered around them. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Laura Akens; children, Mimi Reese Kolesar (Chip) and Niles Robert Akens (Jennifer); and grandchildren, Amber and Ashley Reese and Nathaniel Akens. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at First Baptist Church. Expressions of condolence can be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
William Henry Bennett Jr.
William Henry Bennett Jr., a native of Plant City and a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, died Wedesnday, Oct. 29, 2014. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and son. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 32 years, Earline J. Bennett; daughters, Darline Peal (Harry), Kathy Jones (Ronnie) and Ruby Jackson, all of Louisiana; sons, Malcolm Bennett, of Plant City and William H. Bennett III (Temeka), of Tallahassee; sister, Linda Sykes (Chester), of Lakeland; sister-in-law, Marlene Bennett, of Plant City; 15 granchildren, great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Visitation and religious service were in Baton Rouge Friday, Nov. 7.
Ruth M. Brown
Ruth M. Brown, 84, of Plant City, died Oct. 28, 2014, at her home. Born July 15, 1930, in Atlantic, Idaho, she was the daughter of the late Jacob and Milda Hass Pieken. She was the wife of Howard Brown for 62 years; he survives. Ruth was a member of Hope Lutheran Church and retired after 26 years from Principal Financial Group. Surviving are sons, Duane Brown, Jeffrey Brown and Douglas Brown; daughter, Victoria Ricketts; sister, Janice Blake; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. The family will be having private services. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
William Paul Christian
William Paul Christian, 68, born in Syracuse, New York in 1946, died Oct. 28, 2014. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Barbara J. Christian; children, Casey W. Christian (Tonya), Ryan P. Christian (Donna), Jamie E. Gevedon and Maxwell J. Christian; grandchildren, Courtney, Bryar, Jacob,
Trey and Sam; and brother, Ste ven Christian (Valerie), of Syracuse. He enlisted in the Army in 1965 and served in various assignments. Following his discharge, he attended the University of Southern Colorado, graduating in 1974. He received his master’s degree in Middle Eastern area studies at the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. As a foreign affairs officer to the Middle East, he was stationed with the United States Central Command. He served in both Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. During his service he was awarded many medals, but most notably the Bronze Star for meritorious achievement in a designated combat theater and the Meritorious Service Medal for outstanding achievement and valor to the United States. He was nominated for Florida citizen of the year in 1990. After his 1991 military retirement, he taught at Turkey Creek Middle School for 12 years. He also coached girls softball for Pinecrest Little League. A celebration of life was held Friday, Oct. 31, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment with military honors will follow at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, 73123, Cancer.org. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Linda C. Gregory
Linda C. Gregory, beloved wife of John Gregory, died Nov. 5, 2014, at her home in Tampa. Mrs. Gregory was born April 26, 1954, in Coudersport, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Betty Annalora and Gerald Besse. She grew up in Lockport, New York, and moved to Tampa in 1983. She was employed at the Tampa Airport for more than 25 years. She was medically retired in 2014. Surviving are her husband,
John Gregory; mother, Betty Annalora; son, Raymond Pachmayr (Bobbie); the light of her life, granddaughter, Olivia; and also many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and many other loving family members. Mrs. Gregory was predeceased by her father, Gerald Besse; sisters, Teresa Guidry and Lorraine Johnson; and step-father, Ted Annalora. The family wishes to express a special thank you to Doug and Lisa Johnson. A memorial service was held Tuesday, Nov. 11, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel. Online condolences may be left for the family at HaughtFuneralHome. com.
George Maurice Hamilton
George Maurice Hamilton, 82 of Plant City, died Nov. 9, 2014, at South Florida Baptist Hospital. Born April 18, 1932, in Plant City, he was the son of the late Ralph and Ollie Rice Hamilton. He was the husband of Joan Monplaisir Hamilton for 40 years; she survives. Mr. Hamilton served in the U.S. Navy from 1950 until 1954. He was a member of Springhead Baptist Church, and was retired from IBEW Local 756, Daytona, as an electrician. He also loved being in the woods hunting. Also surviving are sons, Arthur Hamilton and Howard Caywood; daughters, Julie Blakeley, Connie Landers and Donna Weatherholt; 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. A celebration of his life will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Springhead Baptist Church, 3106 South Wiggins Road. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to service at the church. Interment will follow in Springhead Cemetery. If so desired, donations may be made in his memory to either the Springhead Baptist Church’s general fund or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made to the family at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
Kenith Earl “Kenny” Jameson
Kenith Earl “Kenny” Jameson, 53, of Lithia, died Nov. 7, 2014. He was a member of Cedar Grove Baptist Church, and attended Crossroads Baptist Church. He was employed in his family business, Clark Floor Covering in Winter Haven, for 25 years, and most recently as a department manager for Lowe’s. He loved his family, and enjoyed gardening, golfing and umpiring and coaching youth baseball and softball. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Julie Hitson Jameson; children, Adam Jameson (Becky), of Riverview and Kailyn Jameson, of Lithia; granddaughter, Eleni “Ellie” Jameson; parents, Earl and Yvonne Jameson; brother, Michael Jameson (Liz); mother-in-law, Marie Hitson; sister-in-law, Kathy Bennett; and many nieces, nephews, family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Dean Hitson. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at Cedar Grove Baptist Church, 8201 Cedar Grove Church Road, Plant City. Interment to follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.
Martha H. Nunnelley
Martha H. Nunnelley, 87, died Nov. 3, 2014, in Plant City. Mrs. Nunnelley moved to Florida in 1995 from Birmingham, Alabama. She was a florist and a homemaker who was faithful to her church and volunteered in the community. She is predeceased by her husband, James B. Nunnelley; two brothers; and three sisters. She is survived by her loving daughter, Carole Sundeen (John); two step-sons; and grandchildren, Fuad and Spider. Visitation and funeral were Monday, Nov. 10, at Wells Memorial.
Herman Cecil Ouzts
Herman Cecil Ouzts, 89, of Ninety Six, South Carolina, died Nov. 3, 2014 in Plant City. Cecil moved to Florida in 1951 after serving in
the U.S. Navy during WWII and Korea. He is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and two sisters. Cecil is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sadie; daughter, Angela Smith (Wayne); sons, Boyd Ouzts (Linda), Glenn Ouzts (Debbie) and Wade Ouzts(Pam); sisters, Miriam Butler and Frankie Sharp; and seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. A funeral was held Thursday, Nov. 6, at Wells Memorial. Burial took place at Florida National Cemetery. Condolences may be offered at Wellsmemorial.com.
Emmanuel Soto
Emmanuel Soto, 17, of Valrico, died Nov. 7, 2014. He is survived by his parents, Domingo Soto and Candelaria Rodriguez; grandmother, Constancia Rodriguez; siblings, Juliana Soto, Humberto Soto, Altagracia Soto, Jose Soto and Martin Soto; and many other family and friends. A celebration of life was held Tuesday, Nov. 11, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Expressions of condolence can be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Joseph S. Weaver
Joseph S. Weaver, 83, of Brandon, died Oct. 30, 2014. He was a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, and he retired from CSX Railroad. He was a graduate of the University of South Florida, earning a bachelor’s in Business Administration. He loved his family, and enjoyed the Gators, music and gardening. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara Ewana Simmons Weaver; daughters, Lori Cardwell (Randall), of Brandon and Sherri L. Weaver, of Brandon; grandchildren, Justin Randall Cardwell, Joshua Ryan Cardwell, Jacob Logan Cardwell and Ashlee Nicole Cardwell; and many nieces, nephews, family and friends. A celebration of life was held Nov. 3 at Hopewell Funeral Home. Expressions of condolence can be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Sports
YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK For being six years old, D.J. Howard averages three touchdown per game. 14 SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM
PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
SIDELINES Do you have a good sports scoop for us? Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.
SPECIAL OLYMPICS
+ Local athletes set for state games Special Olympics Hillsborough County has announced that it’s sending four teams in bowling and softball to this weekend’s State Games. Two bowling teams are bringing six members: David Niver and Jimmy Penton, of the Frest Princes of Plant City; and Jade Curran, Cheyenne Caldwell, Kiyana Levins, Daisy Lopez, of The Hotshots. The softball teams Plant City Titans and Plant City Raiders will also compete. From the Titans are: coaches, Jeannie Banks, Dan Kolopajlo, and Jay Snapp; and athletes, Matt Jones, Mark Romeo,Chris Revals, Tristan Snapp, Kevin Rogers, Josh McAlpine, TJ Banks, John Banks, Alyssa Delvalle, Alaina McMillon, Savannah Vida From the Raiders are: coach Lisa Goad; and athletes, Jacob Goad, Chris Sweeney, Brittany Harwell, John Straub, Javaras Stevenson, Sammie McQueen, Justin Bulgreen, Bud O’Callaghan, Jessica O’Callaghan, Chris McDarby, Thomas Shervington, Maurice Eston and Jesse Culpepper The Games are being held at the Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, and will wrap up on Saturday.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014
basketball by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
High schools gear up for basketball season With high school basketball set to get rolling next week, every team in the area is worth examining. For Plant City-area basketball fans, this month is about to get a lot better: The high school season is about to begin, with most teams opening up Monday, Nov. 17. Before things really get going, fans should get to know their teams a little better. Who’s going to make an impact for their squad this season?
DURANT BOYS
Following a 3-18 record in the 2013-14 season, the Durant Cougars have decided
to try running the ship with a new captain. Brandon Waraska will take over for Trent Tice this season, inheriting a Cougars team that lost six seniors to graduation — most notably Jesse Coker, who led the team in minutes per game with 29.2. However, that does mean Waraska will get to work with sophomore Tyler White. As a freshman last season, White led the team with 9.3 points per game, while averaging 20.2 minutes. Erick Hernandez,
who led the team with 2.8 assists and 1.1 steals per game, is also returning for his junior year.
DURANT GIRLS
On the other hand, the Lady Cougars aren’t going in with a very new look. Constance Wharton is returning for her second season coaching the team, which finished with a 1-18 record in the 2013-14 season. She took over
File photo
BASKETBALL / PAGE 13 Plant City’s Jayvon Wilson scoots a pass around Erick Hernandez.
GAME OF THE WEEK by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
What is good trash talk?
FLAG FOOTBALL
+ P.C. athletes win ‘Swamp Bowl’ The Hillsborough Argonauts flag football team, consisting of Plant City athletes, were invited to the Swamp Bowl tournament at the University of Florida Oct. 24 to 26. They ended up winning the whole thing and closed things out with a 34-7 win over the Leon County Thunder.
FOOTBALL
+ Superbowl pictures all set There will be a Plant Cityarea team in all five games at this year’s Superbowl. The first four — Mighty Mites, Pee-Wees, Midgets and Junior Varsity — will feature the Plant City Dolphins, who will face the Brandon Cowboys (Mites), East Bay Bucs (Pee-Wees and Midgets) and Brandon Lions (JV), respectively. For the JV Dolphins, this is just the icing on the cake. Those guys are currently riding an undefeated streak, sitting at 13-0 on the season, and looked unstoppable in a 44-14 second-round win over Turkey Creek. Speaking of the Trojans, the Varsity team will face the Lions in the final game of the Superbowl. The “Turkey Creek 12,” following a 19-16 win over East Bay, will face a Lions team that just posted a 21-0 shutout over the Dolphins. The Superbowl will be held all day Saturday, Nov. 22, at the Brandon Lions‘ field, 7402 Taylor Road, Seffner.
WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?
Former Raider T.J. Chase came up with plenty of clutch catches.
Taking on
Playoffs
Both Durant and Plant City are ready for some playoff action Friday, Nov. 14. As an added bonus, they have recent history with their opponents. Isn’t it funny how things work out, sometimes? A late-season push by Plant City High School pushed both the Raiders and Durant into the playoffs. Durant took the district title, thanks to their win over East Bay. That was all just two weeks ago, after things weren’t looking too certain. Now that the playoff seeding has been determined, both Plant City-area schools are set to find themselves facing familiar foes Friday, Nov. 14.
REVENGE
Maybe the most lasting image of last year’s playoff loss at Sickles was that of thenquarterback Landon Galloway after the game, barely standing up while hanging his head down in defeat. It was the most dejected look a Raider had had on his face all year and for good rea-
Landon Galloway nearly led the Raiders to victory in his final high school game. son: With a chance to score from the Gryphons’ 30 on the final play of the game, Galloway was brought down as time expired. A touchdown, plus a successful PAT, would have put the Raiders and Gryphons into overtime. A touchdown
and successful two-point conversion would have won it. It’s an image that Plant City’s current seniors and juniors still have in their minds, along with their own reactions, and they’re determined to not let it happen again.
Photos by Justin Kline
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS Games start at 7:30 p.m. Tampa Bay Tech at Durant (4748 Cougar Path, Plant City) Plant City at Sickles (7950 Gunn Hwy., Tampa) Next Week: TBD “I feel like we’re more of a team now,” senior Quay Young says. “I feel like we’re ready.” While those on the outside can’t really tell how much “more” of a team these 2014 Raiders are by looking, Young speaks with a tone of conviction — not one of bravado. “We just understand what we’ve got to do when we go out there, now,” Young says. “We’re more focused, and everything, as a team.” If the Raiders’ 2013 season was a little more upbeat, with the offense putting up beaucoup points and winning eight of 10 games, then 2014 has been more of a wake-up call. After winning just one of its first four games (including a tie in the season opener with Steinbrenner), something clicked with this team. It played much better football in the next five games, losing two by a total of three points and winning two of the other three by double digits. Plant City nearly lost the Halloween game against Brandon, which would have
SEE FOOTBALL / PAGE 14
Normally, I’d jump right into Friday Night Notes mode here and talk about last week’s football game. I’m taking a break from that this week for a couple of reasons, one being that last Friday’s game at Strawberry Crest was, well... Probably one that the home fans would like to forget. The other reason I’m changing course today is beJUSTIN cause of the KLINE Armwood Hawks, who were ridiculous. I get that they had a nice record to preserve. (I was told on the sideline that a shutout win would set a school record for the most in a season.) And they played accordingly — by which I mean, aggressively. You’re Armwood, go ahead and do your thing, there. What I didn’t get, and still can’t wrap my head around, were the actions of one particular Hawk. This kid just wouldn’t shut up when he needed to shut up, and he needed to shut up sometime before he turned to the Chargers’ sideline and cussed out the Crest players and coaches. We run a family paper here in Plant City, so I definitely can’t print what he said here. Let’s just say that his word choice rivaled that of Jeff Garlin’s wife in “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” OK dude, that’s really cool that you play for Armwood. You’re going to the playoffs, and your team will probably go pretty far. However, unless you have Superman powers and can fly through the air to pick off any passes thrown, you are in high school and have no right to cuss at players and coaches like that. Curse all you want if you ever make it to the professional leagues, where employers don’t seem to mind all that much, but that’s not a good look at all in high school or college.
SEE KLINE / PAGE 13
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football by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
Tristan Hyde rifles off a pass against the Armwood defense.
Armwood gives Crest a charge The final game of the regular season didn’t go as the Chargers had hoped, as they took a 42-0 loss to the Armwood Hawks. Bad luck befell Strawberry Crest, which got a penalty after nearly every big play it produced — in addition to numerous false start and delay-
of-game penalties. Armwood didn’t pull any punches Friday night, going into halftime with a 29-0 lead and, nine points later, starting up the fourth quarter with a running clock. In other area action, Plant City lost, 38-11, at Gaither.
Strawberry Crest’s Arthur Shepherd cuts off Armwood wideout Cordell Pimenta.
Strawberry Crest punter John Boscia makes a diving tackle to prevent a Hawks score.
BASKETBALL / PAGE 12 the team with the understanding that Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a contender; Now that her players are more comfortable in her system, it’s a good sign that most of that young team will be back. That includes Tahira Rodriguez, the junior who led the team with 11.4 points per game last season. With Rodriguez leading the way, it seems likely that the Lady Cougars can improve upon last year’s performance.
PLANT CITY BOYS
Like Durant, Plant City is also transitioning to a new head coach. After Dale Chambers resigned, following the 2013-14 season, junior varsity coach Jerry Yoder moved up to take the reins. Last year’s squad, which finished at 11-11 overall and 5-6 in the district, got plenty of contribution from players like T.J. Chase and Landon Galloway. This year’s squad is also going to rely on football players, as Markese Hargrove, De-
KLINE / PAGE 12 Armwood didn’t have many penalties go against them that night, but this player was taken out of the game after his little outburst. I would hope that Sean Callahan, who is a fantastic coach, put the kid in his place afterward. Before last week’s game, I got on the Gridiron Report podcast and said that this was the kind of game that the younger Chargers could learn a lot from. I hope that, if nothing else, they learned to never do THAT on the field. I know John Kelly has no tolerance for that sort of thing, anyway. I’ve written in the past that trash talk is perfectly OK when it’s done correctly, and I still stand by that. I didn’t really get into the topic of what is considered good trash talk, though, so I’d like to clear that up here. I’d like to stress that you do not need to curse to talk good smack to someone. I wrote about Richard Sherman’s outburst after last season’s NFC Championship game and, let’s face it — the dude basically cut a wrestling promo with Erin Andrews. It was clean enough for the kids to hear, yet harsh enough to irk Michael Crabtree, whom Sherman called a “sorry” wide
LET’S GET STARTED Do you feel the need to be there for your team’s home opener? Check out the schedule. All boys games start at 6:30 p.m. and girls games start at 8 p.m. 11/17: Newsome @ Durant 11/18: Plant @ Plant City 11/18: Sickles @ Strawberry Crest ondre Gatlin and Steven Ogletree are all on board. Having just finished up at the Red Devil Pre-Season Classic at Kathleen on Thursday night, the Raiders will have had a chance to shake off some rust before their opener.
coach, and helped develop junior Shayna Lawrence into an all-around threat. Lawrence led the team with 13.8 points and 7.8 boards per game, and led the entire county with 105 blocked shots — 4.3 per game. Lacey Hargrove, returning for her sophomore season, was a nice surprise last season, scoring 8.4 per game and leading the Lady Raiders with 3.9 steals per game and 19 made three-pointers.
STRAWBERRY CREST BOYS
Coach Wilt Wilkerson and his Lady Raiders are looking to make some more noise in the district this season, and they’ve got the tools to turn some heads. Wilkerson led the team into the district semifinals last season, his first as the head
The only school to retain both coaches, Strawberry Crest enjoyed great success in the 2013-14 season by fielding two district champions. On the boys’ side, coach Andre Lewis led the team to a 22-7 record (9-1 district) and a spot in the regional semifinals, where it lost to Freedom, 4239. This season, Crest lost all five of its leading scorers to graduation. Of its four returning top contributors, two are freshmen; the others, Isaiah Channer and Cody McDaniel, are seniors. Last year, McDaniel led the team by shooting
receiver. No one can argue that Sherman had earned the right to talk that talk, given that he had just gotten his team to the Super Bowl and had a stellar season. Our local athletes may not always get the chance to do something like that when I’m interviewing them, or when someone else is, but it’s just something to keep in mind. On any playing field, athletes are going to jaw at each other. There’s nothing anyone can do to stop that. The mark of a truly good trash talker, though, is that he or she puts their own play first. If things are going well, then it’s OK to get into an opponent’s head.
Cussing them out is never going to work as well as reminding them what they’re up against will, because those words just don’t have the same staying power. That’s not to say that everyone should try to wage psychological warfare on every member of an opposing team, like former Pittsburgh Steeler Joey Porter used to do. Trash talk isn’t everyone’s thing. After all, some athletes prefer to let their play speak for them, which is never a bad idea. Some people are just naturally good at talking and, if they know how to talk smack, then it can be as effective a tool as a juke or a jump shot.
PLANT CITY GIRLS
THIS WEEK’S CROSSWORD ANSWERS
57% from the field and will certainly be asked to take on a bigger role with the departure of leading rebounder Austin Griffin.
STRAWBERRY CREST GIRLS
No team in the area enjoyed as much success as the Lady Chargers in the 2013-14 season, even with the heartbreaking loss to Steinbrenner in the regional semifinals. Almost all of that team, plus coach La’Tosha Lewis, is returning. That includes starting point guard Maiya Trigg, whose 11.6 points per game were second on the team, and starting center Nandi Jorden, who led the team with 2.7 blocks per game. Forward Aliyah Gregory left behind some big shoes to fill, but this could be a breakout year for junior forward Terra Brooks — a two-sport star who led the team in rebounding and shot 48% from the field. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.
THIS WEEK’S CRYPTOGRAM ANSWERS 1. A peculiar sign was observed on the boss’s door: “the beatings will continue until morale improves.” 2. The youngest ants didn’t like the nest arrangements and marched in protest to see the queen. They were quite upset with their lowly status as “colonial workers.”
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FOOTBALL / PAGE 12 kept it out of the playoffs. But a late Sawyer Dawson fumble recovery — made possible by Patrick Colleran’s hit — let this team take the district’s second playoff spot for the second year in a row. Which, of course, meant that it’ll also have to play Sickles for the second year in a row. It’s not quite the same Sickles team, though. While the 2013 Gryphons boasted a solid receiving corps, all of the seniors who caught 18 of Isaac Holder’s 19 touchdown passes are gone. So is Holder’s stellar 18-to-2 touchdown-to-interception ratio, which is now 11-to-7. Ray Ray McCloud III is still here, of course, and is on pace to match his 2013 yardage and touchdown totals with around 180 more carries — if Sickles advances far enough in the playoffs, that is. The 2014 Gryphons finished the regular season at 7-3, and
Ray Ray McCloud III gave the Plant City defense all it could handle. lost only once at home. That was a 54-6 blowout, courtesy of the Plant Panthers, but no other visiting team has come within two scores of Sickles. Can the Raiders fix last year’s mistakes and find redemption off of Gunn Highway?
FLASHBACK FRIDAY
They say that history repeats itself. If that’s true, then
it’s good news for the Durant Cougars. They’re facing Tampa Bay Tech for the second time this season, but that’s not where the recent history between the Titans and Cougars ends. Nov. 16, 2012 was the last time these two teams met in the playoffs, and that game ended up being a 34-7 stepping stone in the Cougars’ romp
Photos by Justin Kline
through the playoff bracket. Last year’s 31-10 home loss notwithstanding, Durant has historically been very good when facing the Titans. Along with that 2012 playoff win, the Cougars made up for the 2013 game with a 34-20 win on the road back in mid-September, fueled by quarterback Erick Davis’s spectacular fivetouchdown scoring effort. One could probably start any conversation about the 2014 Cougars by saying, “last year notwithstanding,” because head coach Mike Gott-
man and his team have really turned things around this year. This team got off to a hot 3-1 start, losing at Armwood and beating both Sickles and Tampa Bay Tech, and Davis’s play at quarterback helped wake up an offense that almost seemed like it was in a coma last season. The Cougars rolled with the read-option offense more often than not, but proved that it could throw the ball in a 55-49 loss to Hillsborough, in which senior Garrett Rentz finished with eight catches for 202 yards and two touchdowns. Even though it got that big win over the Titans early in the season, Durant’s not taking this game lightly. Yes, it’s an opponent that the Cougars have already beaten soundly. Yes, there was that playoff game in November, two years ago, where Durant hosted Tech and beat them soundly. No, you won’t hear Gottman say anything like, “We’re not worried about this game.” The Titans, another 5-5 team, started at 1-3 and ripped off a four-game win streak through October to make up some ground. Their biggest win was by 15 points, over Steinbrenner,
and they also gained the upper hand over Plant City, Freedom and Gaither — one playoff team and one team that would have made the playoffs with a win. They then lost to Sickles by one touchdown, 21-14, before Hillsborough laid a 42-7 beatdown on them. This team also relies on a mobile quarterback, but Tech relies on Deon Cain’s legs much more often than Durant does with Davis. Cain has rushed for 1,180 yards and 10 scores on 178 carries, compared to Davis’s 833 yards and 12 scores on 125 carries. Tech’s Zavid Hill is second on the team with 61 carries. These are two similar teams, though Durant’s offensive output has been greater all season. It’s scored 257 points, compared to Tech’s 185. As far as defenses are concerned, the two teams are within 20 points in the “Allowed” category. Durant has given up 230, while Tech has allowed 250. The Cougars were, without a doubt, the better team on September 12. Can they outpoint the Titans again, just over two months later? Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM
D.J. HOWARD The Plant City Dolphins Mighty Mites team is Superbowl-bound, thanks to the great efforts of its players throughout the playoffs. One standout has been 6-year-old running back D.J. Howard, who scored four touchdowns in the first-round game — just a little above his season average of three per game. What was that game like, for you? I knew it would be a really good game. My team did a really good job, got really good tackles. They were blocking for me really good. How did you score those four touchdowns? My team kept blocking for me, and I ran my hardest. Do you play any other positions? I play running back, quarterback and linebacker — in the middle. Which one’s your favorite? Running back — you run hard and score touchdowns for your team. How long have you been playing football? Three years. What’s your favorite thing about football? You get to tackle, have fun, run the ball and meet new people. Do you play any other sports? I play baseball, soccer and basketball. Football is my favorite. What’s your favorite sports team? The Miami Dolphins. My favorite player is Cam Newton. What else do you like
to do for fun? I’m always playing sports. What’s your favorite movie? Football movies. I like all football movies. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? To run fast. I would be a track runner and run faster in football. If you could try any sport that you’ve never played before, what would it be? Hockey. Do you have a favorite college team? I like the Gators. You’ve got the Superbowl coming up — what are you looking forward to? Getting a trophy. What was your favorite game from this season? When we played the (New Tampa) Wildcats. It was really easy for us. What is the coolest thing you’ve ever done on a football field? I’ve run people over this season. I ran over No. 5 on the Brandon Lions, really hard.
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PLANT CITY
RAIN
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Friday, Nov. 14 Saturday, Nov. 15 Sunday, Nov. 16 Monday, Nov. 17 Tuesday, Nov. 18 Wednesday, Nov. 19 Thursday, Nov. 20
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SUNRISE Friday, Nov. 14 6:49 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 15 6:50 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 16 6:51 a.m. Monday, Nov. 17 6:51 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18 6:52 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19 6:53 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 20 6:54 a.m.
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0.00
WED.
Nov. 12
0.00
NOV.
TO DATE
0.24 (2013: 0.00)
YEAR
TO DATE 36.63 (2013: 37.19)
SUNSET 5:37 p.m. 5:36 p.m. 5:36 p.m. 5:35 p.m. 5:35 p.m. 5:35 p.m. 5:34 p.m.
LOW 48 56 63 55 40 47 57
MOON PHASES
Nov. 14
, 3&
Nov. 22
BELL PEPPERS SHIPPING POINT: ORLANDO SIZE Jumbo Extra Large Large
PRICE $16.35 $14.35 $12.35
Nov. 29
$16.95 $14.95 $12.95
Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture
Dec. 6
Robin Bybee was looking for the pot of gold when she snapped this shot. The Plant City Times & Observer and Grimes Hardware have partnered to host the I Love Plant City Photo Contest. Winners will have their photo featured and receive a $15 gift certificate to Grimes Hardware’s Strawberry Town Cafe! To enter, email your photo, along with a caption, to Editor Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: I Love Plant City. Winners can pick up their prize at Grimes Hardware.
PORT SIDE
By Christopher Kaye | Edited by Timothy E. Parker ACROSS 1 ___ win (be competitive) 7 Put two and two together 10 ___-Wan Kenobi 13 Mouth secretion 19 Brennan of “Private Benjamin” 20 Wet 22 Work boot feature 23 Immediately 24 Looked forward to 25 Pass along a cold, e.g. 26 Southpaws 28 Cay 30 Ollie’s partner in old comedy 31 Congerlike 32 Suffix with “sea” or “land” 34 Fruits that are often dried 38 Intestinal obstruction 40 Woody, tropical vine 41 Archie Bunker, notably 42 Heartburn soothers 46 Mass confusion 47 Bizet opera priestess 48 Three-part 49 Frying-pan coating 50 You, right now 51 Aussie lassie 52 Roof support 53 Campus life 54 Victorian, for one 55 Allowed by law 56 Instrument with finger holes 57 Short vehicle 59 Exited 62 Calamine-lotion target 66 Unwanted decibels 68 Skip the big wedding 69 It features icons (Abbr.) 70 Try
73 75 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 94 96 99 102 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112
Trials end when they’re hung Horse handler Kind of center Some Toyotas Part of CRT Starboard side Most developed on the vine Tapered Character of a culture Eyeball-bending art Human trunk Paving block Words of agreement in church Utter a loud, harsh cry U.S./European defense org. Cats have nine of them What the cleaned-out have Give the nod to After-dinner speech, sometimes Flattened at the ends Casual shoe Battle recreator Hangmen’s needs Main arteries “___ overboard!” Clod chopper Full range
DOWN 1 Sound, as a bell 2 Beers with fewer calories 3 Enjoying a parasail 4 Gossipy gal 5 Dwelling on details 6 Super’s apartment number, sometimes 7 Best Picture of 1984 8 Wooden pegs
SUDOKU PACIFIC Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 21 27 29 32 33 35 36 37 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 49 50 52 53 55 56 58 59 60 61 63 64
“Dear” book Baseball Hall-of-Famer Mel Hive inhabitant Resident of Fort Wayne Fence crossing First-rate Certain baseball player Hotel freebie Wet-dry ___ Appropriate A sib Destitute Junk email Crab-walk Spanish heat Cry of surrender Creature of Jewish folklore Astonished look Milano moolah, once Just took some Become waterlogged On the briny Indira Gandhi’s father Halloween choice “The Phantom Menace” boy Seem suitable for Delicate use of words Lowlife Abounding Cosmetic additive “___ we forget” Fancy dressers What a six-shooter has after five firings They may get glossed over Ness of “The Untouchables” Some deer Like a lit lamp Glove material
© 2013 Universal Uclick
65 67 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77
Employed Excludes “Green ___” Hackneyed Snug, as jeans Good place to have a yen? Advantage-takers Rowing equipment Safe However, briefly
79 80 82 83 86 88 89 91 92
Smoker’s mouthpiece Bones affected by typing Place in Italy You may be lost in the middle of it Skin art Maintains with confidence Adolescence Apportion Poke fun at
93 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 103 104
Happening many times Brilliant thought “The Voice” network All alternative Big quiz Pie ___ mode Dove’s sound Railroad unit Biochemistry abbr. Author Fleming
C RY P T O G R A M S 1. G YPDOHLGB ILCJ QGI EKIPBZPF EJ NWP KEII’I FEEB: “NWP K P G N L J C I Q L H H D E J N L J O P O J N L H X E B G H P L X Y B E Z P I .” 2 . K J T U G B O E T C K X O K C N A N O ’ K WA Z T K J T O T C K X Q Q X O E T Y T O K C X O N Y X Q R J T N AO H Q G K T C K K G C T T K J T L B T T O . K J T U F T Q T L B A K T B H C T K FA K J K J TAQ W G F W U C K X K B C X C “ R G W G O A X W F G Q Z T Q C .”
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