11.28.14 Plant City Times & Observer by Plant City Observer

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INSIDE

PAGEANT PATROL

Historic house ordered to be condemned.

Find out who won the first TCMS Calendar Girls Pageant.

SPORTS

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PAGE 12

Plant City-area teams put up fight in Superbowl.

by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer OUR TOWN bark in the park

City opens new dog park The dog park near Gilchrist Park is the only public dog park in Plant City.

+ Author to hold book signing Becky S. Knighten has published a book of poems she has been writing since 1997. “Feelings” is available on Amazon and at her book signing from from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Ken Jameson Studio, 1404 W. Granfield Ave. The book of a dozen poems explores different types of emotions and can be personalized by adding your name in it.

Plant City pet owners have a new space where they can unleash their furry friends for safe exercise and playtime. Plant City’s dog park, on the north side of East Calhoun Street between Pennsylvania Avenue and Knight Street, is now open. Though some residential areas in town have private dog parks, this is the only

public space designed specifically for canine pets. The 16,000-square-foot park has separate fenced-in areas for big dogs and small dogs. Each area has a water station, picnic table and a waste bag dispenser. “There’s already been citizens and dogs using the facility, so we’re pleased to make

this announcement,” City Manager Mike Herr said about the park’s opening. Construction on the park started in May 2013, beginning with the parking area, using leftover materials from another city project. There was money remaining in the budget that was used to purchase fencing. Jack Holland, director

HISTORIC OCCASION by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

of Recreation and Parks, found ways to reuse some existing park equipment that had been held in storage, such as picnic tables and trash receptacles. “It was basically an unfunded project where we were able to scrape materials from other projects,” City Engineer Brett Gocka said. The only remaining cost is

Catherine Sinclair

The park is located on Calhoun Street.

materials and labor for the installation of a bridge that will allow pedestrian access to

SEE DOG PARK / PAGE 4

ANNIVERSARY by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

Plant City Civitan Club celebrates 60th anniversary The club is dedicated to service and specifically encourages youth to give back to their community. The Plant City Civitan Club celebrated 60 years of history and service at its meeting Thursday, Nov. 20. The club’s motto is “Builders of Good Citizenship,” and it has lived up to it. In the last 60 years, the club has financially sponsored or personally served Meals On Wheels, United Food Bank of Plant City, Civitan Little League Team, Stepping Stone Farm, Florida Baptist Children’s Home and many other organizations. Although none of the club’s current members were there at that first meeting in November 1954, some of the longtime members who attended the

+ Higginbotham named vice chair Commissioner Al Higginbotham was elected as the vice chair of the Hillsborough County Commission Wednesday, Nov. 19. The Honorable Judge Anthony Black, Second District Court of Appeal, administered the oath of office. Higginbotham’s wife, Devon, was in the audience during the oath.

OUR TOWN / PAGE 4

, 3&

This week’s winner is

Kathe Moore

See her photo on PAGE 15.

The mission of Civitan worldwide is to build good citizenship by providing a volunteer organization of clubs dedicated to serving individual and community needs, with an emphasis on helping people with developmental disabilities. anniversary meeting this year were James Jones, who has been in the club for 52 years, and club president, Pat Pogue.

SEE CIVITAN / PAGE 4

o’ Christmas tree by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Businesses spruce up for annual contest

+ Raulerson to be HCDM chair Florida Rep. Dan Raulerson has been selected to act as the chair for the Hillsborough County Legislative Delegation Meeting. The 2014 Hillsborough County Legislative Delegation Meeting will take place beginning at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Hillsborough Community College Dale Mabry Campus in the Student Services

MISSION STATEMENT

Plant City High School JROTC presented the colors at the ceremony.

Catherine Sinclair

A REAL

Daughter of 1812 A rare grave marking was held at Mr. Enon Memorial Cemetery Nov. 22, declaring Nancy DeVane English as a Daughter of 1812. It was also marked in honor of the bicentennial of the War of 1812.

In a shady northern Plant City cemetery speckled with oaks, an intimate group of women gathered to bestow a special honor upon a 110-year-old grave. Even with the drizzling rain, the National Society United States Daughters of 1812 proceeded with its Nov. 22 ceremony at Mt.

Enon Memorial Cemetery, marking the stoney grave of Nancy DeVane English. The ceremony included a presentation of colors by Plant City High School’s JROTC students, reading of proclamations from the national and Florida state presidents of Daughters of 1812 and the placement

of a special marker to indicate English’s status as a Real Daughter of 1812. To be in the society, a woman must be able to show documentation proving she is a direct bloodline descendent of a soldier who fought in the

SEE ENGLISH / PAGE 4

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce is hosting its Christmas Tree Contest. Participants have a chance to win a $200 gift card. Plant City businesses are gearing up for what may be the biggest rivalry of the year: the annual Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Contest. And although it pits different businesses against one another for the title of town’s favorite tree, the competition is a friendly one. This year’s contest will include 20 businesses, such as Dinosaur World, City Pizza, Eye Express and the P l a n t C i t y Times & Observer. All residents of the Win-

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

ter Strawberry Capital are encouraged to go around to these businesses, check out the trees and cast their ballots for the contest. “Christmas is one of my favorite times of year,” said Amy Nizamoff, chamber vice president. “I like going around and looking at all the Christmas trees, and I like knowing what other people think about them.” Although some familiar faces, like the recentlyclosed Brown’s Floral Shop, won’t be participating this year, this is an opportunity for

SEE PAGE 4 Vol. 2, No. 19 | One section

Crossword...................15

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

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

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

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COMMUNITYCALENDAR FRIDAY, NOV. 28

SUNDAY, NOV. 30

Acoustic Happy Hour — takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 7648818.

Toys for Tots Run — takes place beginning at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at AMVETS Post 44, 5521 E. State Road 60, Plant City. Join in a motorcyle ride with a police escort ending at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse and Grill, 106 State Road 60. Festivities will go from 12 to 4 p.m. Drop off an unwrapped toy or donation. For more information, call Mike at (813) 240-6996.

Blues Night with Don Lehman — takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at Top Shelf Sports Bar and Grill, 110 E. Reynolds St. Blues veteran Don Lehman brings sophisticated urban contemporary blues, soul, funk and jazz to Historic Downtown. No cover. (813) 704-6994 Bus Stop— live music takes place beginning at 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 7648818. Christian Contemporary Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220. Christmas Lane — takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. from Nov. 28 through Dec. 28, at 2091 Wooten Road, Dover. Visit ChristmasLane.org. Uncork Your Weekend with Daniel Sprouse— live music takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752- 9100.

SATURDAY, NOV. 29 Black Wax — live music takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 7648818. Uncork Your Weekend with Mark Sprouse — live music takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752- 9100.

MONDAY, DEC. 1 Breaking the Chains of Addiction: A Christ-Centered Approach to Twelve Steps — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, at Holy Protection Church, 3820 Moores Lake Road, Dover. (813) 766-8828. Game Zone Board Games — takes place from 4 to 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1 at the Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. Mclendon St. (813) 7579215.

TUESDAY, DEC. 2 Plant City Christian Women’s Connection Christmas Festivities — takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the Plant City Elks Lodge, 1501 N. Alexander St. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. Festivities include music and speaker Maria Goodsell. The cost is $15 and reservations are required. CWCPCFL@msn. com or (813) 752-5537.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 3 Create An Account — takes place from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. Mclendon St. Learn how to create an email account and send emails. (813) 7579215. Open Mic Night — takes place beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family

Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Read with Bonnie the Therapy Dog — takes place from 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. Mclendon St. (813) 7579215.

THURSDAY, DEC. 4 EHAG’s Christmas Fine Arts Show — takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at Plant City Entertainment, 101 N. Thomas Street. Lights of Love — takes place beginning at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at McCall Park in Historic Downtown. Enjoy hot chocolate, Christmas carolers and concerts, and pictures with Santa. The tree lighting ceremony will start at 6:45 p.m. Tobacco Cessation Class — takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4 at South Florida Baptist Hospital Cancer Resource Center, 1708 Palmetto Ave. The class is free. Claudia, (813) 9291000 ext. 205. Who’s the Man? Father and Child Development Playgroup — takes place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4 at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St.

FRIDAY, DEC. 5 AARP Driver Safety Workshop — takes place from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m Friday, Dec. 5, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. Mclendon St. An instructor will give seniors information on driver safety. Participants may get a discount on their car insurance. The cost is: $20, non-members of AARP; $15, members. Cash or check accepted. Participants are asked to bring a bagged lunch with them. (813) 757-9215. Acoustic Happy Hour — takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at O’Brien’s Irish

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 Tuesday. Mays Blvd. Enjoy live music from local artists. (813) 7521220.

BEST BET Small Business Saturday — takes place Saturday, Nov. 29. In anticipation of the holiday season, the U.S. Small Business Administration is encouraging consumers to support local businesses in their communities

SUNDAY, DEC. 7 Denver and the Mile High Orchestra — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Plant City’s First Baptist Church, 503 N. Palmer St. (813) 752-4104. The Christmas Cross — children’s program begins at 11 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at First United Methodist Church, 303 N. Evers St. (813) 754-3519.

Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Blues Night with Don Lehman — takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Top Shelf Sports Bar and Grill, 110 E. Reynolds St. Blues veteran Don Lehman brings sophisticated urban contemporary blues, soul, funk and jazz to Historic Downtown. No cover. (813) 704-6994. Christmas Parade — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, in Historic Downtown. (813) 754-3707. Church on the Rock Christmas Parade Celebration — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Church on the Rock, 301 E. Alsobrook St. The church will be offering free parking on the night of the Christmas Parade, as well as hot chocolate, cookies and activities. (813) 752-3740.

Dec. 6, in Historic Downtown. (813) 754-3707. CPR and Basic Life Support New Certification — takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Community Conference Room in South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St. This course provides CPR basic life support (BLS) certification for health care workers and is for new certification only; no recertification. The course is four hours long and participants will receive a handbook and completion card if they pass the mandatory written test and skills validation. Registration and prepayment of $40 required. It includes a book and card. (813) 644-6720.

The Gates of Heaven — play takes place beginning at 7 p.m. from Friday, Dec. 5, to Sunday, Dec. 7, at Thonotosassa Church of God, 11702 N. Taylor Road. (813) 986-1916.

PCHS Color Guard Yard Sale — takes place from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Southern Hospitality parking lot, 1709 James L. Redman Parkway. Funds raised will go to purchase a new floor for the Winter Guard season.

Uncork Your Weekend with Eric Tompkins — live music takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752- 9100.

Uncork Your Weekend with Daniel Sprouse — live music takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752- 9100.

SATURDAY, DEC. 6

Young Adult Nite — takes place from 7:33 to 10:33 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden

Bike Night — takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday,

WWII Exhibit — takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Hillsborough Community College’s Plant City Campus, 1206 N. Park Road. A huge collection of uniforms and other memorabilia will be on display for Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

MONDAY, DEC. 8 Relay for Life Holiday Party — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, at Plant City’s First Baptist Church, 503 N. Palmer St. There will be a potluck, stocking challenge, Christmas carols, Christmas tree of Hope and a special speaker from Hope Lodge. RSVP by Dec. 3 to Allison Martinez at allison. martinez@cancer.org or (813) 319-5925.

ONGOING 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. 1220.

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glow for good by Catherine Sinclairr | Staff Writer

LIGHTS OF LOVE: Behind the Scenes The town is illuminated with a warm glow every Christmas season during Lights of Love. But what exactly goes into making one of Plant City’s favorite events come to light?

governance by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer Catherine Sinclair

The exterior and interior of the house at 709 N. Evers Street have been exposed to the elements since a fire damaged the building in 2004.

P.C. commissioners vote to condemn historic house The building was never fully repaired after a fire 10 years ago, and it will be demolished before Christmas. The Plant City Commission voted unanimously Nov. 24, to approve the condemnation of the building at 709 N. Evers Street, which was significantly damaged in a fire 10 years ago. When the house was appraised in April 2014, it was determined that it would take $115,000 to repair the house to the point that it would meet the city code’s minimum requirements. After these repairs, the house would be worth $145,000. Because the cost to repair the house would be more than 50% of the potential value of the house after repairs, Building Division officials issued a notice and order of condemnation in September. The order required the property owners to demolish the house by Oct. 23, but the house still stands today. In a letter to Mayor Rick Lott Nov. 19, Nita Shaw, of the owning family, requested an extension on the deadline for demolishing the house so her daughter could purchase the property and fix it up. “When we purchased N. Evers property ... this property was like a beautiful, and dying, old lady,’” Shaw wrote. “I immediately fell in love with her.” Shaw’s children, who were adults by this time, helped Shaw and her husband, Lowell, with restoration and maintenance on the building and property. But, in June 2004, just six months after the remodeling was complete, a fire damaged most of the building, while Nita and Lowell were on vacation in Alaska. Coni Wilkerson, Nita’s

daughter, apologized for the fire, to her father and other attendees of the Nov. 24 commission meeting. “It is my fault that the house burned,” she said, in tears. She said that because she runs four businesses, it has been difficult for her to find time to repair the home. She offered a folder of documents to the city clerk for public record, showing the work that the family has done on the house or hired local professionals to do. She also has raised about $1,000 through fundraisers. “It’s not much, but it’s a start. Like I said, my children did grow up in that home,” she said. “I’ve been working around the clock.” Neighbors of the home also offered their insight on the situation during the corresponding quasi-judicial public hearing at the meeting. Stephen Zarycki and his family moved into a house on North Evers Street 10 years ago. “The burned-out structure was there at the time, and I believed that it was going to be demolished within one or two years,” Zarycki said. “It’s a home to nothing more than rodents, roaches, termites and transients.” Joyce Nestor is another resident who lives near the house. “My husband and I have spent tens of thousands of dollars maintaining and restoring and keeping our 100-andplus-year-old home beautiful, and it’s an embarrassment to us and all of our neighbors to have that sitting on our street,” Nestor said. Commissioners resolved

the building’s deterioration, structural defects and improper design were dangerous to surrounding buildings and their occupants. Also included in the resolution was the conclusion that the Shaws did not show adequate evidence that the building does not constitute a nuisance as defined in the Plant City Code. If the Shaws do not demolish the building by Dec. 24, 2014, the city manager will select an independent contractor to complete the task. “Sometimes this commission has to take items that are hard, and deal with them,” Lott said. “But when we’re elected to office, we’re supposed to do what the law allows us to do, and that’s exactly what you’ve witnessed here tonight.”

Capital Improvements

Commissioners also approved a resolution to incorporate a schedule of projects for fiscal years 2015 to 2019, into the annual update of the city’s Capital Improvements Element, developed by the Hillsborough County CityCounty Planning Commission. The CIE is required to be updated annually. This year’s update includes 14 projects related to stormwater, potable water, sanitary sewer and transportation, totaling $10.7 million. The largest focus is on the city’s sanitary sewer program, to which 65% of the funds will be allocated. FDOT also has plans for transportation improvements, which the state department will fund. These projects will

IN OTHER NEWS • An emergency contract of $70,385 was awarded to Wetherington Contracting Inc., for repairs to the sanitary sewer main on Barrett Avenue, after utilities staff determined Nov. 5, that the main had collapsed. • Commissioners approved the following reappointments: Harold Falls to the Hillsborough County Citizens Environmental Advisory Committee Board; Matthew Buzza and Steve Boggs to the City of Plant City Planning Board; and David Millerr to the Board of Adjustment Board. Don Walden of the Citizen’s Advisory Committee Board does not wish to be reappointed, so this position is open for applications. total $117.1 million. The update includes a list of improvements at Hillsborough County Public Schools, and most schools in or near Plant City have projects scheduled within the next four years. All projects are contingent upon available funding at the times they are scheduled. Most of the school projects relate to asphalt repairs and painting. Other improvements include: installation of a new roof at Jackson Elementary School (2014-2015) replacement of the telephone system at Plant City High School (2015-2016) and addition of a walkway canopy at Turkey Creek Middle School (20172018). Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.

One night each December, McCall Park is set aglow with a sparkling Christmas tree and other decorations during Lights of Love, a fundraising event for the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation. This year’s Lights of Love will be Thursday, Dec. 4, and proceeds will benefit the hospital’s surgery center expansion. Each year, the event goes turns on with a countdown until the tree lights and holiday displays explode with light. But a lot goes into it before that night. For one, there’s the massive 30-foot-tall tree that is the centerpiece of the evening. Then, there’s 210 lighted decorations throughout the city. Total, these displays have about 35,000 bulbs. Typically, employees from the City of Plant City’s General Services Department begin preparing for the lighting ceremony the week after the annual Empty Bowls fundraiser, about halfway through November. But, this year, they started setting up Oct. 29, in order to make sure there would be ample time for necessary repairs. Each year, about 500 bulbs are broken or stolen and have to be replaced. The lights specifically for the tree are stored at the hospital throughout the year and are put up the last week of November. Last year, 30 businesses and families sponsored Lights of Love with large donations, and 180 individuals and families gave smaller donations to honor loved ones with a “light.” However, the number of donations does not correspond with the actual number of lights on the tree. Though the official tree lighting ceremony will be at 6 45 p.m., the fun starts at 5 30 and lasts until after the lighting ceremony. Photos with Santa will be available for 10. And, as always, snacks will be available at Mrs. Claus’ itc hen. New this year, the event will feature also singing the of Christmas carols by the City Plant Community Chorale. The exact start time of their performance be anwill nounced closer to the event date.

IF YOU GO LIGHTS OF LOVE When: 5:30 p.m.; Dec. 4 Where: McCall Park

BY THE NUMBERS 10: the age of the tree 210: the number of lighted decorations around Plant City 35,000: the number of bulbs total on the displays 30: the number of feet the tree is 500: the number of broken or stolen bulbs

The chorale, which has about 30 members, has been working on this year’s Christmas repertoire since August. Its conductor, e n Watts, is a Master of music and has been performing and conducting for more than 40 years. To kick off their performance, the chorale will sing a Christmas medley. But, after that, they will move throughout the crowd, singing traditional carols. The audience will be encouraged to sing along with the songs they know. To donate to Lights of Love, contact the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation at (813) 7578478. “Lights” can be purchased in memory or in honor of a loved one for $25, $50, $75 and $100, and sponsorships are available at higher levels. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver.com.

LEADER OF THE PACK by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Bruce Rodwell named 2014 Christmas Parade Marshal Bruce Rodwell was picked for his extensive community involvement. The Plant City Christmas Parade’s Board of Directors decided on the theme, “Celebrate the Season” for 2014, and the man to lead the festivities is Bruce Rodwell. “I consider it a great honor, and I’m looking forward to it,” Rodwell said. Rodwell, who spent more than 40 years working in the produce industry, came to Plant City in 1996 to take on a role as a strawberry broker. He has been very active around Plant City and the Tampa Bay area since retiring in 2001. He has worked with the United Way Board of Tampa Bay, Toastmasters and the YMCA Board of Plant City, but left to pursue even more ventures. “Bruce is a class act,” Marsha Passmore, last year’s Grand Marshal, said. “Since he came to Plant City, he has brought so much to the com-

Bruce Rodwell will lead the 2014 Christmas Parade. munity. He’s been good to all of us. Plant City is a better place because he’s here.” He’s still bringing positivity to the community, particularly in the field of health care. Rodwell is currently serving

Courtesy photo

on the Board of St. Joseph’s Hospital, in Tampa, the BayCare Health System Board, the Catholic Health ast Trinity Monitoring Committee, and the oundation Board of South lorida Baptist Hospi-

tal. More locally, he’s on the Planning Board of Plant City, the United o od Bank of Plant City Board and the Walden Lake Community Association Board. Rodwell is a member of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Daybreak Rotary Club and the Elks Club, and attends services at First United Methodist Church. He and his wife, Margaret, moved to Walden Lake in 1996 and have been a part of the Diamonds and Denim Committee for 16 years. Anyone who has attended the Diamonds and Denim gala will recognize Bruce, or at least his distinct voice, as the emcee of the event. The icing on the cake? Rodwell was named Plant City’s Citizen of the Year in 2009, and it seems like he’s still highly regarded around town.

“He was a unanimous selection this year,” Passmore says. “There were several names tossed around, but Bruce was the only one that we actually voted on. Everyone was on board once his name was brought up.” As is the case with most people in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, Rodwell loves Christmas and getting into the holiday spirit. Living here, he said, makes the season even more enjoyable. “Everybody is so cheerful and friendly, looking forward to the big holiday and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ,” he said. “The lights that the city puts up in McCall Park are very beautiful. And, of course, the Lights of Love that’s a wonderful event.” Rodwell is eagerly awaiting his chance to lead the Christmas Parade, which will travel from the corner of Collins and Alsobrook streets to the court-

IF YOU GO THE PLANT CITY CHRISTMAS PARADE When: 7 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 5 Route: The parade will travel from the corner of Collins and Alsobrook streets to the courthouse on Reynolds Street. house on Reynolds Street. Once the parade’s over, he’ll be checking out the Christmas trees and keeping his holiday spirit high. “I urge people to visit the local merchants for the (Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s) Christmas Tree contest,” Rodwell says. “It gets you in the Christmas spirit. Some of those trees are absolutely gorgeous.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

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COPS CORNER

DOG PARK / PAGE 1

WEST ORANGE

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

Nov. 2

THE EDGE OF REASON

2900 Block Blain Acres Road. Found Property. Officers responded a suspicious vehicle stopping and the occupant throwing an object into a ditch. Upon arrival, the vehicle was no longer on scene. Officers located an Echo stick edger in the ditch. The edger was taken into custody as found property.

NOV. 2

WAS IT WORTH IT?

2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Petit Theft. Officers met with loss-prevention officials, who stated the suspect concealed $26 worth of store products and attempted to leave without paying. The suspect was arrested.

KINK IN THE CHAIN

South Collins/East Alabama Streets. Drug Investigation. Officers conducted a traffic stop on the suspect who was riding a bicycle without proper lighting after dark. He was arrested for possession of crack cocaine and later transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

NOV. 4

FREE FOR ALL

1700 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Burglary Business. Officers responded

Catherine Sinclair

Jared and Justin Quinn unveiled the historic marker on their ancestorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grave.

ENGLISH / PAGE 1 war, or someone who gave material aid to the soldiers. DeVane English was the daughter of Benjamin DeVane, who fought in the War of 1812 in North Carolina. After the war, Benjamin moved to Plant City and raised his family there. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They were farmers, and Benjamin was one of the pioneer settlers of the Plant City area,â&#x20AC;? said Kay McGee, chapter vice president. Benjamin was born in North Carolina as the son of a Revolutionary War soldier. When Benjamin died in 1874, at age 85, he had been living in the Plant City household of his daughter and her husband. Benjamin was buried in Mt. Enon Memorial Cemetery, and when DeVane English died in 1904, she was buried there, as well. None of DeVane Englishâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s descendants lives in the Plant City area currently, but some

to a call of a broken glass door at the location. Upon observation of the store, several items were rummaged through. About $200 was taken from the cash drawer, as well as $300 from a small gray safe that was under the front counter.

Pat Pogue is president of the Civitan Club.

CIVITAN YOUTH PARADE The annual Civitan Youth Parade wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be until Feb. 28, 2015, but the Civitan Club already is accepting applications for entries. For 2015 Youth Parade applications go to FLStrawberryFestival.com, click on â&#x20AC;&#x153;contest rulesâ&#x20AC;? and scroll down to 2015 Youth Parade. All schools, school PTSAs, clubs, churches and groups involved with youth are encouraged to enter the Youth Parade. Non-profit youth groups and clubs are also urged to enter the â&#x20AC;&#x153;float buildingâ&#x20AC;?

LOCK IT UP

2300 block of Thonotosassa Road. Burglary Business. A delivery man called in a broken door at the business. After an investigation, it was learned that $400 was taken from an unlocked safe in the office.

of her descendants, from as close as Tampa and as far as Gainesville, came to attend the grave marking ceremony. Dwight DeVane is a descendant who has explored his family tree in depth and knows the stories of many graves at Mt. Enon. Many of his ancestors went south after the Civil War and settled around what is now Plant City. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They were pioneers,â&#x20AC;? Dwight said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They had to deal with things that much of the nation had already dealt with. But here, it took a little longer. The family had such a deep sense of who they were ... and a really close association with this place.â&#x20AC;? And itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s those stories of historical figures that the Daughters of 1812 seek to protect. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The purpose of our society is to promote patriotism, to preserve and increase the knowledge of the history of America, and to mark historic spots,â&#x20AC;? McGee said. Grave markings are not commonplace ceremonies for the Daughters of 1812. There has not been a local grave marking since McGee, joined five years ago. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The country has been doing all sorts of things to commemorate the war and to find places that need to be saved and thought of,â&#x20AC;? McGee said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So this is our little salute to the bicentennial, to have this marking at this time.â&#x20AC;?

NATIONAL SOCIETY U.S. DAUGHTERS OF 1812 FOUNDED: Jan. 8, 1892 MOTTO: Liberty, Fraternity and Unity EMBLEM: Star and anchor HEADQUARTERS: Washington, D.C. WEBSITE: USDaughters1812.org

CIVITAN / PAGE 1 â&#x20AC;&#x153;I joined the Civitan Club in 1989, and I did because the club does so much in this community, and I wanted to be a part of all of the excitement that I saw with the members,â&#x20AC;? Pogue said. As special guests at the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s monthly breakfast meeting at Buddy Freddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Mayor Rick Lott and City Manager Mike Herr addressed the club members. Lott pointed out ways that Civitan members have impacted his life throughout the decades, as well as the lives of

TREES / PAGE 1 new and existing businesses to get some spotlight and take on more frequent winners, like the ever-popular Hope Lutheran Church. Between the participating businesses, this contest is only going to count for a yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth of bragging rights. For you, though, there are several hundred reasons to play along â&#x20AC;&#x201D; voters will be entered into a drawing to win a $200 gift card. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever played Bingo, then you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need much coaching for this one â&#x20AC;&#x201D; just visit the businesses listed on your ballot, which can be found in the Plant City Times & Observerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holiday Guide or at the chamber, and check out the trees and take the sticker that each merchant gives you. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to cover at least 65% of your page with stickers from businesses, then bring it to the chamber to be entered to win.

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competition. In addition to the activity of building a float and being in the parade, you could win a trophy and $100 cash for your club, school, youth group or organization. All applications will be considered on a first come, first serve basis as received for float building sponsorship by the Plant City Civitan Club. Local businesses also are sought to be in sponsors for a float Contact club president Pat Pogue at (813) 754-4680 or email ppogue1559@aol.com. others in the community. Lott remembered Jones was his principal when he was a student at Tomlin Middle School. And Jeanne Knotts, a current member and adviser of the Junior Civitan Club at Plant City High School, was one of Lottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sisterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best friends when they were in high school. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all need each other to build a successful community. ... Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing to see how our lives intertwine,â&#x20AC;? Lott said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For us to be a strong community, we have to serve, and for 60 years, you have served our community.â&#x20AC;? One of the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foci is supThis year, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a new facet being added to the contest: If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it out to every business, you can just visit the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Likeâ&#x20AC;? pictures of trees to cast your vote. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an effort to make the Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice contest more social media-driven and increase awareness of these businesses, according to Nizamoff. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just trying to drive more people to the local businesses,â&#x20AC;? Nizamoff said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Social media is a big part of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world, so weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hoping that that will draw more awareness to the businesses.â&#x20AC;? Anyone age 19 or older is eligible to be entered for the drawing. Voters 18 and younger will be entered to win a $25 gift card. The contest will be held from Nov. 28 to 30. For more information, call (813) 754-3707 or email Nizamoff, amy@plantcity. org. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobser ver. com.

JUST A CLICK AWAY

If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it out to every business, you can just visit the chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Likeâ&#x20AC;? pictures of trees to cast your vote. To cast your vote, visit facebook.com/ PlantCityChamber.

TOUGH COMPETITION

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Last year, Focus 4 Beauty won the competition. Focus 4 Beauty is a career center that offers programs in cosmetology, barbering, nails, and skincare and facials. Some other favorites included Dinosaur World. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was so cool, with all of the dinosaurs and things that they decorated it with,â&#x20AC;? Nizamoff said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;All of the little kids loved it.â&#x20AC;?

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Catherine Sinclair

porting youth in the community, through initiatives such as its Youth Parade each year at the Florida Strawberry Festival. Each holiday season, members of the club offer a Christmas party for students with disabilities at J.S. Robinson Elementary School. And, at the end of each school year, with other civic clubs, Civitan recognizes honor students at Tomlin Middle School during an event called Pride of Tomlin. Civitan also sponsors junior clubs at Plant City and Durant high schools. Some of the junior members attended the 60th anniversary meeting before heading off to school last Thursday. Jackson Hardee is president of the club at PCHS. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I joined the club to do community service and help my friends from school help the community, also,â&#x20AC;? Hardee said. The chapter at PCHS serves at Romp in the Swamp, collects canned goods for the food bank and feeds the homeless once a month at Courier Field. At the Plant City Commission meeting Monday, Nov. 24, Lott again recognized the club for its 60 years of service to the community. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.

OUR TOWN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Auditorium, 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd., Tampa. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I appreciate being afforded the opportunity to act as the incoming chair for the Hillsborough Legislative Delegation, and I am looking forward to convening our first official meeting as a new delegation and welcoming the reelected returning members of the Delegation, as well as our newly elected legislative leaders,â&#x20AC;? Raulerson said. The deadline for submission of Local Bills will be noon Thursday, Dec. 4, and the deadline for submission of speaker requests for those wishing to address the delegation will be noon Monday, Dec. 8. The Hillsborough County Legislative Delegation website, HillsboroughCounty.org/ legdel will be continuously updated in the coming weeks to reflect all pertinent information regarding the Dec. 11 meeting. For all legislative questions or specific inquiries regarding the Delegation meeting, please contact Amber Smith at Amber. Smith@myfloridahouse.gov or at (813) 757-9110.

+ PCHS students receive awards Twelve Plant City High School students were awarded the 2014 Jan Henrick Achievement Award. This award is selected by teacher

permanent parking on Knight Street. Gocka estimates this cost at $50,000. For now, temporary parking is available on Pennsylvania Avenue. The Recreation and Parks Department has released a list of 20 rules for use of the dog park. The most important rule is that guardians must clean up after their dogs. This is a law in accordance with Plant City Code, Section 50-1(9). Other rules are intended to keep dogs and humans safe at the park. For example, dangerous or aggressive dogs are prohibited. Dogs must wear collars with ID tags and proof of current rabies vaccination. Puppies younger than 4 months old are not allowed to enter. And, there is no food allowed in the park for humans or dogs, nor rawhide chew toys. The list of rules was developed based on rules at other municipal dog parks in Hillsborough County. They will be enforced by police and Recreation and Parks staff, but it will usually be a park userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responsibility to report problems he or she observes. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.

BODY LANGUAGE You might know your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own methods of communication inside and out, but it is important to be able to understand other dogs as well. Before taking your dog to socialize, be aware of these canine body language tips. â&#x20AC;˘ A dog licking its nose could be indicating stress. â&#x20AC;˘ If your dog is yawning, he or she is nervous, not tired. â&#x20AC;˘ Stretching is a friendly greeting. â&#x20AC;˘ Ears pressed back against the head, with a cowering posture, shows anxiousness.

nomination and recognizes students who have overcome obstacles. Plant City High School award winners included: Yesica Boxtha, Leslie Carlisle, Evelia FabianOlivera, Justin Felix, Ana Karina Gregorio, Lizbeth Gutierrez, Marcus Jenkins, Jose Patino, Kionsha Ragins, Qumarrius Ross, Kierstan Thomas, and Isaac Villafane. The students and their parents were honored at a dinner at the Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club in Dade City. Della Warner, social studies teacher, and Sherrie Mueller, college and career counselor, represented the high schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faculty and attended the event with the students. The award winners each received a $200 gift card to Walmart. The Jan Henrick Achievement Award was established in 2002. Henrick died in 2004 and her husband, Kevin Bohne, and his company, Florida Gas Contractors Inc., have spearheaded fundraising activities to keep the award active. Henrick was a guidance counselor and swim coach in the Plant City area before continuing her career in Tampa. Students from Plant City High School, Wharton High School and Pasco High School are eligible for the award.

+ Correction In the Nov. 21 edition, we incorrectly reported in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Plans to ease traffic near Wawa, Starbucks in progressâ&#x20AC;? that the city of Plant City would contribute to construction projects. We regret the error.

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ROOTING FOR BBQ by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

The Poppell Insurance BBQ Team: (back row) Lonnie Harmon, Fred Williams, Robert Basgall; (front row) “Barbecue” Ben Copeland and Mark Poppell pose with local musician and barbecue fan Cliff Brown.

Pig Jam anything but ‘boar’ Pig Jam, Plant City’s favorite barbecue festival, kicked off its first two-day outing Friday, Nov. 22. Hungry folks from all over the the country came to try award-winning barbecue, play fun games with their kids, and listen to energetic live performances by Clemons Road and Dock 7. Nine teams from the Plant City area set up shop on the grounds next to the Plant City Stadium, as well as numerous other teams from Florida and elsewhere. The real competition began Saturday, when judges determined who cooked up the best of all the good eats. The Grand Champion was the Hot Wachulas.

Trish and Robert Jordan, of Smokin’ Aces BBQ.

David Miles, of Strawberry Town BBQ — the artists formerly known as Smokin’ N the Boys’ Room.

The pig hats were popular and worn all over the grounds.

Rita Staffing Q&A WITH JANET KELLY

Did you know that every $100 spent at a local, independently-owned store generates $45 of secondary local spending, compared to $14 for a big-box chain? This was first tested in 2003 by the Institute for Local Self Reliance and is nearly identical to later results across multiple Civic Economic studies. The Plant City Times & Observer agrees with buying local. With the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, we’ve launched the Buy Local campaign, encouraging residents to shop local. This week’s Buy Local spotlight is Rita Staffing. We caught up with Janet Kelly to get all the info on this successful business. How did your business first get its start? We first started as a direct hire placement with engineers and then started the temporary side of the business that focused on vacations and maternity fill-ins. What kind of services can your business offer the community? Nothing is more rewarding than helping people find a career. We are blessed to help match qualified employees with our top employers daily. How does your business contribute to the community? Being locally owned and operated our profits are spent in the local community — unlike the national franchises. We also are encouraged to sponsor local charity groups, etc., and every year for Christmas we donate to food banks, buy toys for foster children and encourage our employees to do the same. Our employees are actively involved in volunteering their time with community activities. What is your business’ motto or mission and why? Rita Staffing is an innovative provider of creative staffing solutions, enabling our clients to achieve their

goals and objectives. Our core commitments are simply: ethics and integrity in everything we do. Our relationships with our clients and our employees are the foundation of our continued success. And, as a company, we anticipate and embrace change. How many employees do you have? In Plant City we have four core employees and two sales people. Can you describe your clients/customers? We are blessed to have a variety of clients that range from light industrial, professional placement, warehouse and production to office support. About the Owner: Our owners are Jim and Martha Dayvault. Both are still involved in our business today. They also are owners of Sunshine Staffing in Sebring, and with Tony Wolz, are owners of Rita Technology, an IT firm based out of Tampa. They enjoy spending time at the beach and are very involved in their church. What is your background? Professional? Education? Both our owners are graduates of the business school

of Catawba College in Salisbury, North Carolina. How long have you been in the business? We have been in business 42 years. Where do you see your business in the next five years? Our focus is always on our customers and their every changing needs. At the heart, our business is people-centric. While technology can enhance efficiencies and even replace manual functions, you can’t take the human factor out of it entirely. The definition of an employee may also change significantly as workers desire to bounce part-time between traditional corporate roles, cultivation of entrepreneurial opportunities, pursuit of societal contributions and leisure activities. Contract-like work models could become a more prevalent and dynamic way to assemble successful teams What is your secret to success? We live by our mission statement: ethics and integrity in all we do. We also give back to our community and believe in helping the same community where we work and live. Our employees are everything to us.

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AGRICULTURE by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

Students round up awards at county fair WINNERS POULTRY Grand Champion Poultry: Hannah Spivey, Plant City High School

SWINE Grand Champion Swine: Tiffany Henry, Simmons Career Center Reserve Champion Swine: Ben Gude, Turkey Creek Middle School

CATTLE Grand Champion Heifer: Madi Conrad, Tomlin Middle School Reserve Grand Champion Heifer: Shalee Conrad, homeschooled Grand Champion Steer: Morgan Lee, Strawberry Crest High School Reserve Grand Champion Steer: Clay Joyner, Strawberry Crest High School

HARVEST QUEEN PAGEANT Harvest Queen: Shelby St. Amant, Hillsborough Community College Junior Harvest Queen: Kaylee Stallard, Turkey Creek Middle School A complete list of local winners in other divisions was not available from fair officials during press time. If you have any local winners youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to submit, send pictures and announcements to AJurgensen@ PlantCityObserver.com.

Students from local schools and one homeschooled student were honored with championship titles this year. Plant City-area students brought home titles to be proud of at the Hillsborough County Fair, the last two weekends in October. Hannah Spivey, a freshman at Plant City High School, earned the honor of Grand Champion, upon her first time competing in the fairâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poultry show. Spivey first started showing birds last year, when she began to develop her SAE for FFA. She chose chickens instead of pigs or cattle because they require less space, provide eggs and do not need to eventually be sold. Spivey now has 11 birds. She purchased her white, winning hen at last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Florida Strawberry Festival and named her Tundra. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She was extremely young when I first got her,â&#x20AC;? Spivey said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had to raise her up from a baby.â&#x20AC;? She also has to train her birds, like any other animal, to behave correctly during shows. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the hardest things to do is trying to get them to behave properly when it comes to getting them ready for shows,â&#x20AC;? Spivey said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chickens arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the most cooperative animal.â&#x20AC;? Spivey said one of her favorite aspects of competing in the County Fair was getting to interact with so many peo-

Kaylee Stallard and Shelby St. Amant, both of Plant City, were crowned in the Harvest Queen Pageant. ple who were knowledgeable about poultry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They were all very nice to me when they told me â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;congratulationsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on my bird,â&#x20AC;? Spivey said. It also was Tiffany Henryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first time competing at the fair. She represented Simmons Career Center FFA in the swine show. The chapterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pig was named Grand Champion. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I came into it thinking that we werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even going to place at all,â&#x20AC;? Henry said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But, I defi-

nitely think this was a miracle and a God intervention in this case.â&#x20AC;? Unlike Spivey and her birds, Henry didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect to see the pig again after the show. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Usually we go into it knowing that they are going to be eaten at the end,â&#x20AC;? Henry said. Simmonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pig sold for $13 a pound and weighed 272. All of the $3,536 went back to the FFA chapter. The only pig at the fair that was worth more than Simmonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; belonged to Lane Harrell, and sold for $14.50 a pound. Harrell gave the money to his mother, Susan Harrell, who has been deeply involved with local agriculture students for years and is currently battling cancer. Both winners of the Junior and Senior Harvest Queen Pageant also were local students. Shelby St. Amant, Senior Queen, lives in Lithia and attends Hillsborough Community College in Plant City. She has been competing in pageants for nearly 10 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a real confidence booster for me,â&#x20AC;? St. Amant said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve definitely gained a lot of selfesteem from doing pageants.â&#x20AC;? This was St. Amantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third year competing in the Senior Harvest Queen pageant, after two years competing in the

Tiffany Henry represented Simmons Career Center FFA in the swine show.

Photos courtesy of Berry Sweet Memories

Shalee Conrad, the youngest girl in a family of passionate agriculturists, placed highly in the Justin Gill Memorial Beef Show. junior division. Recently, St. Amant also has been crowed in the Keel and Curley Miss Blueberry Queen competition, the Newsome FFA Sweetheart Pag-

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eant and the Pioneer Heritage Sweetheart Pageant. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.

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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

â&#x20AC;&#x153;If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Friedrich Hayek, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Road to Serfdom,â&#x20AC;? 1944

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PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2014

Destiny Martin The Top 16 contestants were stunning.

Mercedes Fuller

Faith Johnson won the fan favorite.

Sarah Gagnon had tears in her eyes when she was announced as Cover Girl.

Beauty & Grace PAGEANT by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

Turkey Creek Middle School held its first Calendar Girls pageant Saturday, Nov. 15, at the school. The event raised $13,000 for an end of the year sports banquet and an eighthgrade celebration. And the 34 contestants had a blast competing.

Taylor Harden was first up to answer a question.

WINNERS COVER GIRL Sarah Gagnon FAN FAVORITE Faith Johnson MISS CONGENIALITY Elizabeth Eakins MOST SALES Elysse Denning

Elysse Denning won for most calendars sold.

Grace Gainer

CALENDAR GIRLS Kirstin Bassinger Marissa Cantu Kaelin Cox Elizabeth Eakins Haven Futch Faith Johnson Taylor Harden Jenna Rae Keely Kamille Long Kaylee Stallard Kiersten Struth Olivia Grace Whitman

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music in me by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

Band honored at music awards

Larry Clark plays with The Sensational Epics, which was inducted into the Hall of Fame, Nov. 7.

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Larry Clark can be seen around Plant City playing saxophone and flute at open mic events and church services. But this represents only a fraction of his musical endeavors. He has been a member of a rhythm and blues band called The Sensational Epics since it formed in 1963 in South Carolina, and this month, the band was inducted into the South Carolina Beach Music Awards Hall of Fame. The Sensational Epics arose from a group of teenage friends who wanted to play music together. At first, their repertoire was mostly limited to songs by The Beatles. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Within a year or so, it gradually morphed into what was more popular in the South, which was rhythm and blues,â&#x20AC;? Clark said. In 1970, the five original members of the band thought they had broken up for good, each continuing to pursue other musical opportunities independently. As an officer in the U.S. Air Force, Clark played flute in church a few times a year. He kept his saxophones around, though they were starting to collect some dust. In 1996, the band came back together for one night to play at the musiciansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 30-year high school reunion. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We had fun, but we all just went our separate ways again after that,â&#x20AC;? Clark said. But in 2001, the band was invited to play a benefit concert for a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shelter. After that performance, the band members decided to commit to playing together more regularly. By this point, Clark had moved to Plant City, but he did not want to quit on his band. So, since the reunion, Clark

The Sensational Epics play rhythm and blues at weddings and other events.

Larry Clarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s band, The Sensational Epics, received a trophy at the South Carolina Beach Music Awards last weekend. has made the 500-mile drive to South Carolina 10 or more times each year to perform with The Sensational Epics. For him, the trek is worth the reward. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One the way up there almost every time, I say, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Why am

I doing this?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; But then as soon as I get on stage, the chemistry of the band â&#x20AC;&#x201D; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re like a family,â&#x20AC;? Clark said. Last spring, the band found out that they would be inducted into the South Carolina Beach Music Awards Hall of Fame, an honor that has been bestowed upon the best beach music bands since 1995. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thought it was pretty cool,â&#x20AC;? Clark said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Then I started realizing the only way to get into the Hall of Fame is to be old.â&#x20AC;? Beach music is a genre intended to accompany the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shag,â&#x20AC;? the state dance of South Carolina. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The whole genre is relatively slow, so you dance holding hands,â&#x20AC;? Clark said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kind of like what you might think of jitterbug or something like that, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much more slow, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a much more graceful dance.â&#x20AC;? Clark and seven of the other

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band members convened in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, for a weekend of ceremonies and celebrating Thursday, Nov. 6, to Sunday, Nov. 9. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still kind of surprised that we won, because we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hang around the beach much, even though we play a lot of beach music,â&#x20AC;? Clark said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most of our jobs are weddings or special events.â&#x20AC;? When heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not traveling to play with The Sensational Epics, Clark plays solo and with a few groups around Plant City. He enjoys playing with the praise band at First United Methodist Church and sometimes as a guest musician at other churches. He also plays at open mic events at Big Dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Patio and Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brienâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Irish Pub. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.

FEEL THE RHYTHM by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

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The Noon Rotary Club held its annual Dancing with the Locals competition Friday, Nov. 14, at the John R. Trinkle Center. The event is a fundraiser for the club. In addition to a recital, attendees were treated to an open bar and food, and could bid on auction items. Awards for judgesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pick and most money raised were given out. For most money raised: first place, Lance Ham and Crystal Eaton; second place, Jennifer Chamberlain and Stephen Rossiter; and third place, Dayla and Chris Russ. The judges picked Scott and Summer Prieto as the winners for their vampire-themed dance.

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Crystal Eaton and Lance Ham

Dr. Roxanne Buffano and Anthony Walkowiak

Summer and Scott Prieto

Stephen Rossiter and Jennifer Chamberlain

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UPCOMING by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

back to school by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

Great American Teach-In brings new lesson plan to area schools The annual event was Nov. 20, and professionals from all over Plant City shared their lessons on jobs and life. Courtesy photo

Denver Bierman is the leader of the Mile High Orchestra.

First Baptist Church gets musical with Christmas concert Instead of its annual Christmas Cantata, Plant City’s First Baptist Church will be hosting Denver and the Mile High Orchestra. First Baptist Church is known for its annual Christmas play, but the church plans to mix things up in 2014. This year, an audience will be treated to the unique sounds of Denver and the Mile High Orchestra. “They’re a very talented Christian group,” Director of Technical Ministries Jay Ballard says. “They have a fresh take on songs.” Led by Denver Bierman, the nine-member Mile High Orchestra is a horn-driven band that calls Nashville, Tennessee home. Founded in 1999, while its members were at Belmont College, the group has created its own signature blend of jazz and big band influences to get its sound — something that the band itself calls “power funk.” “We’ve never really been a mainstream, pop radio band — we’ve just tried to be a band that everybody could enjoy — a band for the American family,” Bierman said. “What could be better than being a band for the American family?” This fresh sound garnered the band plenty of international attention, including a stint on the television show, “The Next Great American Band,” on FOX, that ended with a third-place finish, and performances at both the 2002 Winter Olympics at Salt Lake City, Utah, and the 2004 Olympic Games at Athens, Greece. The group has released seven albums, including the Dove Award-winning children’s album, “Groovy.” Its most recent album, “Mile High Hymns,” was released April 16 of this year and is available on iTunes for $9.99. The members have toured

IF YOU GO DENVER AND THE MILE HIGH ORCHESTRA Where: First Baptist Church of Plant City, 503 N. Palmer St. When: Sunday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m. Cost: Free with some big names in music, such as The Who, Kelly Clarkson, Donna Summer, MercyMe and more. The band is about to begin its “Merry and Bright Christmas Tour,” a 13-stop outing that’s taking the band to churches and venues in locations like Minnesota, the Carolinas, Illinois and Texas. The Dec. 7 stop in Plant City will be the band’s only date in Florida. They’ve changed their tour route just to stop at Plant City’s First Baptist Church. But it also won’t be the first time the band has set foot in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. “They’ve been here twice before, and they liked us,” Ballard says. “They changed their tour path so that they could take care of us.” Concert-goers can expect to hear a good mix of traditional Christmas and religious songs, but performed in the band’s vibrant, upbeat style. “They do a really good version of ‘Sleigh Ride’ and ‘Joy to the World,’” Ballard says. The best part? This concert will be free and open to the public. “Everyone’s invited,” Ballard says. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobser ver. com.

In the quiet auditorium of Knights Elementary, musician Cliff Brown tunes his guitar, preparing for one of the most educational performances of his career. Standing alone on stage, the students file in, murmuring about his instrument. He starts strumming. They stop talking. One 30-minute mini concert later, and the students are convinced they, too, want to be rock stars. “I like the guitar,” a little boy says, exiting the room excitedly with his friends. Brown, of the band Clemons Road, was just one of many Plant City professionals that came to an area school for the annual Great American TeachIn. During the teach-in, students can learn about different types of careers from the guest speakers. Every year, the most interesting professionals are invited to share their experiences. From policemen to beekeepers, each sets up a unique presentation. Some of the best presentations involve animals. At Knights Elementary, representatives from Busch Gardens brought some wild friends along with them — an armadillo, alligator and sloth. Second-grader Carlos Charles learned one fact about each animal. “(The Sloth) it’s low on the ground, but a good swimmer,” Charles says. “(Alligators) have sharp teeth and doesn’t use its nails as much. It only eats meat.”

THIS WEEK’S CROSSWORD ANSWERS

THIS WEEK’S CRYPTOGRAM ANSWERS 1. A travel agent was offering a very low-priced trip to his customers. “Look,” he said, “you can take a marvelous winter cruise to Alaska for five nights and four nights!” 2. The chess tournament in a plush hotel was getting noisy. The games were over and winners were bragging. A waiter said softly, “Chess nuts boasting over an open foyer.....”

PlantCityObserver.com

Seven classes of second-graders got to do a scavenger hunt to learn more about the paper. But the armadillo was his favorite. “Its shell is hard,” Charles says. A fireman was another popular speaker. He brought his gear, including a helmet, oxygen tank, gloves and boots, to show the students. The demonstration made a big impact on 8-year-old Landon Merrill. “He talked to us about firefighter medical,” Merrill says. “And I want to be a firefighter when I grow up — Plant City.” Unfortunately for some students, the firetruck had to leave in the middle of the day for a real emergency. But, Brooklynn Vanhorn wasn’t upset. She got to see another type of truck — one from Tampa Electric. “I was scared when he went up really high in the truck because I’m scared of heights,” Vanhorn says. Wyatt Drawdy was also impressed with the TECO employee. “He told us all about electricity,” Drawdy says. “The big

Photos by Catherine Sinclair

The students had many questions for their speakers.

Carlos Charles was an excited volunteer to be interviewed.

green box — you cannot sit on it because it can shock you. He told us about big metal poles and the wires that go underground.” The Plant City Times & Observer editorial staff also came to the Knights Elementary Teach-In. Seven classes of second-graders learned about

writing letters to the editor, played with high-tech cameras and some were even interviewed for an article. At the end, they explored the paper by doing a scavenger hunt in the most recent edition. Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

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OBSERVEROBITUARIES Wallace Hoyt Blackburn

Wallace Hoyt Blackburn, 91, died Nov. 14, 2014, in Tampa. Born Dec. 6, 1922, to Elizabeth and Stonewall Jackson Blackburn, in Plant City, he and his older brother, Kline, grew up in central Florida, both graduating from Pasco High School. He joined the U.S. Army in 1941. After his discharge at war’s end, Wallace worked briefly at Raybro Electric and then reenlisted in the military, this time in the U.S. Air Force. In February 1947, he married Joanne Elizabeth Blackburn. He was stationed in England, Texas, Virginia and Guam before retiring out of MacDill AFB in 1963, as a Master Sergeant. He enjoyed a long retirement, eventually settling into a lawn maintenance business with a family friend. Combining his love of the outdoors with his desire to be his own boss, this job let him

John H. Land

John H. Land, 94, of Apopka passed away Saturday, Nov. 22, 2014. Mr. Land served as mayor of the City of Apopka for 61 years and is thought to be the longest-ser ving full-time mayor in Florida history. Born in Plant City, Land moved to Apopka at an early age. He was educated in Apopka schools and attended the University of Florida. In June 1942 he entered the U.S. Army and saw action in two campaigns in the European Theatre. After the war, he went into business in wire-bound box manufacturing and bulk oil plant. Mr. Land was first elected as mayor of Apopka in 1949 and served from Jan. 1, 1950 to Jan. 1, 1968. He was elected again mayor in 1970 and has served continuously from January 1, 1971 until April 2014.

demonstrate his green thumb and attention to detail. He was a longtime member of Palma Ceia Baptist Church. He was a devoted son, participating in the care of both of his aging parents. He is survived by daughters, Marlana Blackburn, of Seattle, and Marsha Johnson (Mel), of Orlando; and two grandchildren, a great-grandson, a niece and many cousins.

Jacques E. Bourget

Jacques E. Bourget, 71, of Plant City, died Nov. 15, 2014. After a long battle with cancer, Mr. Bourget is now at peace. He was born in Trois Riviers, Quebec, Canada, and moved to the U.S. in 1964. He met his wife, Rose, in 1984 and wed in 1986. He was a mighty man of God, a wonderful loving father, husband, son and brother. He was a master of carpentry and took pride in all of his work and projects. He was preceded in death by Mr. Land was a member of the Apopka Rotary Club (Paul Harris Fellow), Apopka Foliage Sertoma Club, American Legion (life member), Tiger Bay Club, First Presbyterian Church of Apopka, East Central Florida Planning Council, Florida League of Cities (past president, two terms), Board of Directors Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (founding director and past chairman of the board), Apopka Historical Society (life member), Orange County Coalition of Local Governments, Apopka Area Chamber of Commerce, Apopka High School DECA Advisory Committee, Boy Scouts Merit badge Counselor, University of Florida President’s Council, University of Florida Gator Boosters Scholarship Club (director), Beltway 2000, Veterans of Foreign Wars (life member), Orange Lodge # 36-F. & A.M., Lambda Chi Alpha, College Fraternity,

parents, Gerard and Madeleine Trottier Bourget; and sister, Mimi Bourget. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Rose Bourget; sons, Jacques Andre and Michael Castignola; and grandchild, Aiden Castignola. Surviving siblings residing in Quebec are Paul, Gills and Luke Bourget; sistersin-law, and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of life was held Nov. 22, at First Assembly of God, Plant City. Online condolences may be left for Mr. Bourget at HaughtFuneralHome. com. Betty Bostick Brooks died Nov. 17, 2014. Ms. Brooks was born Nov. 23, 1928, in Groveland, and raised in Plant City. She graduated from Plant City High School and attended the University of Tampa. Her ancestors came to America from Austria in the 1700s and settled in the

Lakeland area. She married Roy R. Brooks, also a native of Florida. Ms. Brooks was a charter member of Palma Ceia Methodist Church and was instrumental in building several subdivisions in North Tampa. She was active in the Beach Park Women’s Club, where she served as president for two years. She was also active in several charitable organizations and local politics. Later in life, Betty’s passions became traveling and her grandchildren. Betty is survived by children, R. Ray Brooks (Beth), Carol B. Stanton, Glen E. Brooks (Alida) and Nile D. Brooks (Lisa); and grandchildren, Michelle and Michael Stanton (Carol), and Jacob Nile and Emily Sophia Brooks (Nile). Her family also included brothers, James (deceased), Cecil and Theron Bostick; and sister, Margie Boyette. The family would like to give sincere thanks to the entire staff at Bayshore Point Nurs-

METROPLAN ORLANDO Board of Directors (November 2001), Wekiva River Basin Coordinating Committee (August 2003; Governor-appointed), Wekiva River basin Commission (September 2004; Governor-appointed), Wekiva River System Advisory Management Committee (February 2005; Washington D.C.-appointed). Mr. Land was a former member of the Orange County Council of Mayors, (former president), Florida League of Cities Executive Board, Florida League of Cities Legislative Committee, Mayor’s Task Force on Housing, City of Orlando, North Orange County Improvement Association, Local Advisory Board for Wekiwa Springs State park, Orange County Pollution Control Board, Salvation Army Advisory Board, Walt Disney World Community Service Award Committee, Toastmas-

ters, Florida Planning and Management Council, Orange County Schools Superintendent Selection, Greater Orlando Chamber of Commerce Legislative Forum Committee, Orlando Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) (Past Chairman), TriCounty Transit Policy Board (now Lynx Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority) and First Municipal Loan Council. In 1967 he was chosen Outstanding Citizen of the Year by the Apopka Chamber of Commerce and its citizens. He received the first annual E. Harris Drew Award as Municipal Officer of the Year in 1978 from the Florida League of Cities. He received the first annual Community Recognition Award in 1983 for leadership in government from the Orlando Chamber of Commerce and American Television and Communications.

Betty Bostick Brooks

ing and Rehab in Tampa and the staff at Memorial Hospital. A graveside service was held Nov. 21, at Myrtle Hill Cemetery, Tampa.

Laura Cameron

Laura Cameron, 86, loving wife, mother, and grandma, died Tuesday, Nov. 18, in Plant City, surrounded by her family. Her life was dedicated to her family and to teaching children, and everyone she met, about the Love of Jesus through teaching and song. Mrs. Cameron was preceded in death by her brother, James Johnson. She is survived by her husband, James R. (Jim Bob) Cameron; children, Terry L. Cameron (late wife Ruby), of Canton, Georgia, Shara K. Hutchins, of Plant City, Benny R. Cameron, of Lakeland, Robert S. (Bob) Cameron (Linda), of Zephyrhills, Darrell D. Cameron, of Bath, New York, Fern L. Johnson (Tim), of Plant City, and Al D. Cameron (Linda), of Arlington, Texas; 17 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. A celebration of life was held Nov. 24, at Sydney First Church of God. Interment at

In special recognition of his 50th year as mayor of Apopka, Florida League of Cities Inc., adopted an amendment to the League-By-Laws to establish a board of directors seat for Mr. Land. The amendment states, “Any elected municipal official, beginning his or her 50th year in elective office, for as long as such official is otherwise qualifies to serve as director” shall receive an at-large director seat on the Board. This award makes him the only Mayor in the State of Florida that is classified as direct without requiring election or appointment. In 2001, Mr. Land received a Florida Senator’s Proclamation and a Florida House of Representatives Tribute recognizing him for his many years of devoted service to the citizens of Apopka, and he was proudly declared to an official State of Florida Treasure. In December 2005, The

the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. In lieu of flowers, monetary gifts may be given to help defray the costs of burial.

Ruth Leona Drawdy

Ruth Leona Drawdy, 93, of Plant City, died Nov. 22, 2014. She is survived by her daughters, Patricia Diane Sealey (Brian) and Sandra Jean Bowen (Steve); eight grandchildren; nine greatgrandchildren; and one greatgreat-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray J. Drawdy; and son, Gary Drawdy. A celebration of life was held Nov. 25, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Expressions of condolence at may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.

Beverly A. Driggers

Beverly A. Driggers, 74, died Nov. 14, 2014, in Plant City. Beverly was born in Springfield, Ohio, to Russell and Mary Byerly. She was passionate about everything she did and is survived by her loving friends. She will be missed dearly. Condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority officially named State Road 414 as the John Land Apopka Expressway. In 2006, Mr. Land received the T. Thomas Gurney, Sr., Community Service Award presented by the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce. In 2014 he had received the Lifetime Achievement Award-Tri County League of Cities. John enjoyed history, hunting, fishing, gardening, attending theater, family gatherings and ice cream socials. Mr. Land is survived by his loving wife, Betty Hall Land; children, Suzanne “Sue,” Betty Catherine “Cathy,” and John H. Jr.; and grandchildren, Catherine, Samantha, Jordan, India and Caroline. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mayor John H. visit LoomisFuneralHomes.com.

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Paul Herrington

Paul Herrington, 53, of Plant City and Redington Shores, died Nov. 1, 2014. Mr. Herrington was one of a kind. His love knew no boundaries. His faith, unshakeable. He was a proud Florida Gator! His love of hunting and fishing, immeasurable. He was a champion at everything he loved. A long-standing member of The I.U.O.E LOCAL 925, a brotherhood among friends. Mr. Herrington is predeceased by his father, EJ Sr.; brother, Slate M.; and nephew, Jason Paul. He is survived by his mother, Constance (Robert); brother, EJ Jr.; loving wife of 29 years, Vickie; daughters, Tiffany Fleischmann (David) and Kristin Davis (Trevor); and the little man that owned his heart, grandson, Ethan Fleischmann. Services were held Nov. 22.

Jeffery Donn Hicks

Jeffery Donn Hicks, 30, of Lakeland, died Nov. 17, 2014, at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. He was born April 11, 1984, in Tampa. He was preceded in death by his mother, Tammy. Surviving are his parents, James and Tina Hicks; sons, Dylan Hicks, Xiaver Hicks and Isaiah Hicks; brothers, James A. Hicks Jr. and Christopher Hicks; and sisters, Ginger Hicks and Autumn Hicks. A funeral service was held Monday, Nov. 24, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel. Online condolences may be made to the family at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Hazel Ishie Hogan

Hazel Ishie Hogan, 94, of Chiefland, died Nov. 19, 2014. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Cecil Ishie Sr.; son, Buddy Ishie; and daughter, Cecilia Teston. She is survived by her husband, Buddy Hogan; children, Voncille “Tootie” Smith (Ralph), Rubleen Haynes (Cliff), Robert Hogan and Lisa Hogan; brothers, Paul and Ben Tindale; and many loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren, greatgreat-grandchildren and one great-great-great-grandchild. A celebration of life was held Nov. 21, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Expressions of condolence may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

Elmer Linzy

Elmer Linzy, 70, of Plant City, died Nov. 20, 2014, at his home. Born May 24, 1944, in Milton, he was the son of the late John and Antie Hughes Linzy. He was the husband of Wynell Browning Linzy; she survives. Mr. Linzy loved working in his garden, fishing and working with his hands. He was predeceased by daughter, Sheri Michelle Linzy. Also surviving are son, John Linzy (Dana); brother, Ommer Linzy; sisters, Jewell Gould, Leona Coone, Pauline Lehman, Margaret Middlebrooks and Brenda Rose; grandchildren, Amanda and Alicia Linzy and Noah Donaldson; special nieces, April Rose, Amiee and Casandra Browning; and many other beloved nieces and nephews. A funeral service was held Nov. 24, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Randall Lee Moore Jr.

Randall Lee Moore Jr., 39, of Plant City, died Nov. 18, 2014, at South Florida Baptist Hospital. Born Dec. 31, 1974, in Tampa, he was the son of the late Randall Moore Sr. and Bertie Peeples Dunbar; she survives. Also surviving are brother, Richard Elliott; and sister, Bertie Wright. Randall was a member of New Mt. Zion Freewill Baptist Church. He graduated from Doris Learning Center of Lakeland in 1992. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome. com.

James Gordon “Bumpa” Morton

James Gordon “Bumpa” Morton, 80, of Dover, died Nov. 16, 2014, surrounded by family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Joyce; daughters, Sheila Hinson (Emory) and Allison Wacaser (Terry); grandchildren, Corey Hinson (Della), Megan Wacaser (Jacob) and Kristen Barrett (Mike); and great-grandchildren, Reece, Hallie, Colton,

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP Hope, Savannah and Ellie. A celebration of life was held Thursday, Nov. 20, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment at Lake Lindsey Cemetery, Brooksville. Expressions of condolence may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

Margaret “Patti” Mullins

Margaret “Patti” Mullins, 80, died Nov. 17, 2014, in Lakeland. Ms. Mullins was born in Central, South Carolina, to Rhett and Helen Mullinax. She is survived by her loving family. Condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

“C.J.” Charles L. Ricks Jr.

“C.J.” Charles L. Ricks Jr., 26, died in Lakeland Nov. 16, 2014. He was a member of Forgotten Fallen and loved his music and performing. He also enjoyed writing, fishing, frog gigging and “swamp shrimping.” He is survived by his son, Waylon Cain Ricks; parents, Kim Quinn, Shannon Quinn, Charles Ricks and Lester Bennett; siblings, Justin Bennett, Jessica Holmes, Brandi Page, Stacie Bennett, Olivia Bennett, Kyle Ricks, Chad Grassel and Josh Grassel; maternal grand-

parents, James and Mary McDowell; paternal grandparents, Jimmy and Betty Ricks; uncles, Michael McDowell, Ricky Ricks (Danielle) and Brian Ricks (Michelle); aunts, Lori McDonough (Tim), Wendy Myers and Christi Garcia; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. C.J. will be missed dearly by his loving family and friends. A funeral service was held Nov. 25, at Wells Memorial. Burial followed at Mt. Enon Cemetery. Condolences may be made at WellsMemorial. com.

Gary Michael “Bee Man” Thomas

Gary Michael “Bee Man” Thomas, 57, of Lakeland, died Nov. 20, 2014, from cancer. He was a Lakeland native, avid beekeeper and veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He married his high school sweetheart, and loved his family, grandkids, rock-n-roll music and hunting with his son and grandson. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Christie; children, Crystal Thomas and Jason

Michael Thomas (Rebecca); mother, Margaret Thomas; siblings, Glenda Thomas and Glenn Thomas; grandchildren, Michael, Cheyanna, Savannah, Susanna, Luke, Waylon, Jake and Stormie; and great-granddaughter, Ella. He was preceded in death by his father, Lonnie Thomas. A celebration of life was held Nov. 22, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Expressions of condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK D’Edrick Green drove a winning touchdown in Superbowl finale. 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

+ Teams bring home hardware At the Nov. 14 and 15 Special Olympics State Games, four Plant City teams came, saw and conquered. Two bowling teams — the Hotshots and the Fresh Princes of Plant City — took home gold medals in their respective competitions. Two softball teams also finished well, with the Plant City Raiders bringing home some gold and the Plant City Titans bringing home some silver.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2014

SUPERBOWL SATURDAY youth football by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Saturday was a big deal for youth football. Five Plant City-area teams made it to the Tri-County Youth Football and Cheerleading Conference’s annual championship tournament, the Superbowl, Nov. 22.

VARSITY: IT TAKES TWELVE

BASKETBALL

+ Hot starts for P.C.-area teams This is shaping up to be a good year for girls basketball in the Plant City area, as our three teams have gotten off to a great start. Plant City and Strawberry Crest both took 5-0 records (1-0 district) into the Thanksgiving break, and Durant has already tripled its 2013 win total with a 3-2 record (1-0 district). As many expected, the Lady Chargers have been playing excellent basketball. Their closest margin of victory was 28 points, which came in their most recent game Nov. 21 at Wharton. They’ll resume play Dec. 1, at district foe Tampa Bay Tech. The Lady Raiders have also been great, but they’re the ones who can lay claim to holding an opponent to single-digit scoring: The season-opening, 61-7 win over Leto on Nov. 12 has yet to be replicated by any other team. They’ll also be back in action Dec. 1, at Brandon. The Lady Cougars are looking like a muchimproved squad in coach Constance Wharton’s second year and, surprisingly, a freshman has taken the scoring lead. Ashlyn Myers leads all area players with 16.2 points per game, including an impressive 26-point outing in the Nov. 13 win at Wharton. Myers and Durant will host East Bay Dec. 1.

SOFTBALL

Ledarin Ragins and his teammates were ecstatic after the big win. Anyone who caught the Superbowl action can say that the best was saved for last. The Turkey Creek Trojans Varsity team, just 12 players strong, pulled out a win at the very last second. The Brandon Lions got on the scoreboard less than a minute after the game began, but couldn’t make that 7-0 lead any larger until the third quarter. During a closely-matched second half against the Trojans, they found themselves in a stalemate after Trojans running back Ledarin Ragins scored at the three-minute mark. With eight-and-one-half minutes left in the game, a fight broke out on the grounds

and delayed the game for several minutes. Once order was restored, Brandon ate up the clock and pulled ahead, 13-7, on an 18-yard rushing touchdown with just over three minutes to play. Turkey Creek, aided by a 15yard facemask penalty, found itself in the red zone with 1:24 to go. They fumbled — and recovered — and ran twice for a total of one yard. Then, on fourth and goal, quarterback D’Edrick Green ran up the middle, nearly untouched, for the touchdown. A successful two-point conversion led to one more defensive stop, and the “Trojan 12” got the goods they came for.

The Trojans relied heavily on their ground game.

+ Registration now open The Plant City Recreation and Parks Department’s adult softball league is open for registration from now until Jan. 5, 2015. Teams can register at the department office, 1904 S. Park Road. The cost to register is $310, which covers the eight-game schedule and tournament. The available divisions are Monday Co-Ed League, Tuesday Church Night and Thursday Men’s Recreational or Competitive Leagues. All teams must bring their own game balls. For more information, contact Deborah Haldane at dhaldane@plantcitygov.com

The Superbowl win was coach Casey McClain’s third in four tries. The Turkey Creek defense made Brandon earn every single yard.

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON KLINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MIND?

JUNIOR VARSITY: THE REAL DEAL The Plant City Dolphins JV squad didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lose a game this season, and Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outing proved that these kids still

know how to win the big one. Their 20-6 win over the Brandon Lions was the only game of the day that wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t close â&#x20AC;&#x201D; at least, not on the scoreboard. Plant City struck first, thanks to a 45-yard touchdown pass caught by Deâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;quwan My-

ers, but the Lions were able to block the PAT to make it a 6-0 game. After letting the Dolphins move the ball freely in the beginning, the Brandon defense tightened up and made Plant City earn every yard. The home team was also able to keep the Dolphins out of the end zone until the very end of the first half, when running back Michael Turner capped off a nice drive with a fiveyard rushing touchdown. Brandonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offense got going to begin the second half, scoring on a long passing play of their own to make it a 12-6 game. That one got into the minds of the Plant City defenders, who then shifted gears and kept Brandon on its toes. The Dolphins pulled ahead

Thoughts on the â&#x20AC;&#x2122;14 TCYFCC Superbowl

for good in the fourth quarter, when Chris Wilson dove into the end zone from three yards out and iced the cake with a field goal at the 3:58 mark.

Above: Chris Wilson wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to be slowed down easily. Left: Ben Gude and his teammates were thrilled to win the Superbowl.

MIDGETS: ONE MEASLY POINT All that came between the Plant City Dolphins Midgets team and a Superbowl championship was one point. The boys played their hearts out in a 13-12 loss to the East Bay Buccaneers, who looked to be in control for the majority of the game. Even when the Dolphins were able to keep the Bucs from scoring, the eventual champs didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take long to figure out how to move the ball effectively. East Bay ran screen plays like Andy Reidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s old Philadelphia Eagles teams used to do, and ran them effectively nearly every time. No one scored until the second quarter, though, when the Bucs punched in a rushing touchdown from the goal line to take a 7-0 lead. Later, at the 5:20 mark, East Bay capital-

Ethan Pues beat his defender to the catch.

PEE-WEES: ALMOST THERE The first Plant City-East Bay matchup of the day was all about the ground game, but the Bucs took the upper hand in a 12-6 win over the Dolphins. In the first quarter, Plant City struck gold at the 5:02 mark to go up, 6-0. The extra point attempt was no good, and both teams turned up the defensive effort from there. East Bay got their first touchdown with 52 seconds left in the first half, driving all the way

to the goal line and scoring on a one-yard run. Their extra point attempt also failed, and both teams left the field with a halftime draw. A scoreless third quarter led to an East Bay touchdown on the first play of the fourth, a 38-yard sweep run, but another extra point attempt was no good. Plant City kept things interesting, driving the ball to the best of the playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ability, but couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make anything else happen before time ran out.

Jourdan Anderson pounded the rock for the Dolphins.

ized on a 40-yard gain from a screen with a quarterback option. This extra point attempt was no good, setting the score at 13-0. Plant City found its way before the end of the half, putting a touchdown on the board but missing the PAT. The Dolphins scored again in the fourth quarter, with a

Brent Coton floater that landed in Ethan Puesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hands and went 30 yards for a score. With 1:01 on the clock, Plant City needed a successful PAT to tie; The wind had other ideas, however, and stopped the ball just short of the crossbar. East Bay kneeled on the next drive to ice the clock and the game with it.

MIGHTY MITES: GOOD OLD-FASHIONED SHOOTOUT The most action-packed game of the day was the opener, when the Brandon Cowboys got the better of Plant City in a 25-19 slobber-knocker. Both teams were evenly matched through two quarters, going into halftime with the score tied at 13. After a scoreless third quarter, the Cowboys recovered a Dolphins fumble with 3:23 to go and took it to the house, 60 yards downfield, for a touchdown. The extra point attempt was no good, putting the score at 19-13. Plant City answered right back, driving all the way to the end zone and capping it off with a D.J. Howard rushing touchdown at the 43-second mark. The extra point attempt was unsuccessful, however, and Plant Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defense made sure that the game went to overtime. Three plays into the overtime period, Brandon found

itself in the end zone again. Another failed extra point attempt set the lead at 25-19, and Plant City did everything it

Devonte Howard Jr.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stiff-arm is high, but effective. could to get to the goal line. On fourth down, just inches from the plane, and the defense managed to stop Howard.

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This past Saturday was the day that five of our Plant Cityarea youth football teams have waited all year for: the Superbowl. While most of the teams walked away with a loss, we were at least able to see two teams win championships: the Plant City Dolphins JV team and the Turkey Creek Trojans Varsity team. I spent the entire day at the Brandon Lionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; field, and my feet werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t too happy about that, but I JUSTIN can definitely KLINE say that the football action made it all worthwhile. I have to thank Mother Nature for not bringing the rain, because things werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t looking so good earlier in the morning. Gray skies dominated the view until the afternoon, with the sun really starting to peek out during the JV game. The field was just one quick rainfall away from turning into a mud hole. On the other hand, that could have made for some cool photos. Kudos to the Plant City Dolphins fans who stuck around for all four of the programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s games. Those three losses were tough, with the boys getting closer and closer to pulling out a win every time. Fortunately, those teams are all young â&#x20AC;&#x201D; theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get another chance to win soon, given how well theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve played. Speaking of the Dolphins, one of my favorite plays of the day came in the Midgetsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 13-12 loss to the East Bay Buccaneers. With just over a minute left to play, and Plant City around the Bucsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 30-yard line, quarterback Brent Coton saw wideout Ethan Pues beat his man off of the line and led him with a beautiful touch pass for a touchdown. From a fundamental standpoint, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d call it the best pass thrown all day. Of course, I shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been surprised to see two former Plant City Times & Observer Athletes of the Week doing something great together on a playing field. I have to give the East Bay Bucs a lot of credit. They play well every time I see them, and Saturday was no exception. Those were two hard-earned wins, and my only hope is that the team is

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soccer by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

Faith Christian grows D’EDRICK GREEN students’ love of soccer It’s fourth and goal with 10 seconds left in the biggest game of the season, and you’re quarterbacking the offense. What do you do? If you’re Turkey Creek Trojans quarterback D’Edrick Green, you just run it up the gut for the touchdown. The Trojans rode this successful drive to a TCYFCC Superbowl championship, and it was the kind of ending that most football fans dream of being able to see in person.

In the academy’s soccer program, everyone is a first-timer. This season has been all about learning the game and learning to love it. ANOTHER WORLD

In the U.S., kids are used to having a wealth of options. In other countries, that’s not always the case. Head coach Beni Jombai, who was born in Nigeria and lived there until 2002, remembers that he and his childhood friends didn’t have many other sports to play while growing up. So soccer was the most popular game, with track and field at a distant second. “My fifth grade P.E. teacher wanted to get us into baseball,” Jombai says. “I had an arm, so he wanted me as a pitcher. But, I wanted to play something else — I wanted to be a batter. My dad bought a bat for me, and that was the only bat we had in the entire school. So, the teacher said to me, ‘You can bat, but who’s going to pitch?’” some way, shape or form. “Some of them, it’s their first time ever kicking a ball,” Jombai says. “Some of them, it’s their first time ever playing on a field like this. Some of them, it’s their first time even saying, ‘Let’s try this sport out.’” The school gave Jombai an opportunity to do what he loves, too. Born and raised in Nigeria, where soccer is extremely popular, he latched onto the game at an early age and never looked back. It is, in his own words, all he’s known. “I love soccer,” he says. “I played in high school. We would wake up at 5:30 in the morning for practices, and

we’d be out there for hours. But, once you love the game — once you love anything — you’ll give anything up for that thing.” At Faith Christian, he was given the opportunity to build the school’s soccer program from the ground up. “It’s something I love to do, so I figured, ‘Why not?’ It’s definitely God-give, and it’s opening new things in my life,” Jombai says. He knew that getting the kids to love the game, which isn’t nearly as popular in the U.S. as in Nigeria, was his best shot at creating something good. To do this, Jombai hasn’t been acting in a disciplinarian’s role, running grueling practice schedules. Instead, he’s been encouraging the kids to simply be kids. “I try to let them be in the moment,” he says. “I tell my 9-year-olds to be 9-yearolds and my 10-year-olds to be 10-year-olds. Don’t be a 15-year-old, don’t be a 5-yearold.” It sounds as though the approach has worked. Take Dekari Green, a recent Plant City Times & Observer Athlete of the Week. He had never played soccer before joining the team this year and, after getting more comfortable as the team’s goalkeeper, can’t wait to learn as much as possible. Part of that desire is to help the team reach another level, hopefully improving upon the team’s current 0-8 mark in the Tampa Bay Christian Athletic League. “I think we’re going to try hard next year,” Green says. “We’re going to try and go to the playoffs. We’ll try our hardest.”

After that two-point conversion, you all were going nuts on the sideline. What was going through your mind in that moment? We just really won the Superbowl. I thought we were done out there, when they put 10 seconds on the clock and we went in. But then, we scored the last points. We just won it. Then, you guys went out there on defense and got the stop. But when did the win sink in for you — after the two-pointer or the final stop? After the defensive stop. They kept pulling it back, and when I saw one of our players recover the ball, I knew we won. This has been a pretty long season for you guys, playing both ways. What was the hardest part of the season? Getting past East Bay in the second round of the playoffs. I knew we could do it (win the Superbowl) after we beat East Bay, because they were the hardest team. When you first got your Superbowl trophy, what did you do? I was throwing it up. I was happy that we won. What other sports do you play? Basketball. I like to play center. I play for Marshall Middle School.

KLINE / PAGE 13 happy enough to splurge on new uniforms. After seeing gradient-colored uniform numbers in person, I now understand why the NCAA forbids collegiate teams to use a pattern on their numbers that matches that of the jersey. It’s extremely difficult to read. The Dolphins JV team was undefeated this year, and they certainly showed why in their game against the Brandon Lions. They faced stiffer competition than the 20-6 final score suggests, and though it certainly wasn’t the best game the Dolphins have played all year, the team still managed to get it done. With more tournaments on the horizon, such as the upcoming UYFL National Championships, it’s hard not to like this team’s odds of collecting more hardware by the end of the year. Everything was perfectly fine throughout the day, until the Lions’ fans showed up. The Lions teams themselves seemed to be respectful on the field, so that’s not the issue — it was people on the outside detracting from the experience. There was a lot of unnecessary swearing, yelling at the kids as though they were professional athletes, and at least two brawls that broke out — one near the end of the varsity game, which caused a lengthy delay, and one after the game ended, and the police officers had left the park. Again, this has nothing

Walk me through the final drive of that game. I was really scared when Coach (Casey McClain) called for Red 1 — that’s a pass play. I’m not comfortable with passing. So, when we got in the huddle, I was like, ‘Everybody just go out. If it’s not there, I’m just going to run it in.’ There was no linebacker, so I just took off and dove for a touchdown.

Are you going to play quarterback in high school, or try something else? I want to play wide receiver when I go into high school. It’s my favorite position to play — you get to catch the ball.

Plant City Dolphins JV went undefeated this year.

The Turkey Creek Trojans celebrated their big win. to do with how the players and coaches acted. But, I would urge those in charge of the TCYFCC to reconsider holding Superbowls there in the future and to also take precautions to have police officers present until everyone leaves the parks. With that said, I have to give a big shout-out to the Turkey Creek Varsity team. The fact that these 12 kids came together and won a championship playing serious, ironman shifts is incredible. Many of their game scores from this

season made the process look easier than it really was, but it took a lot of hard work and dedication to make this win happen. Football’s a tough game, even when you’re only worried about playing on one end of the ball. Trojans, I hope that those fights didn’t spoil your big day. You all worked way too hard this year to deserve anything like that. The final drive of that game is going to stay in my mind for a long time, and I’m sure it will for you all, too.

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It’s a cold, blustery Tuesday at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex — the kind of weather that would make most Floridians complain and go indoors. There’s no complaining to be found on the soccer pitch, however, even from a group of kids who are running around out there, clad in yellow pinnies and playing competitive soccer for the sixth time ever. The Faith Christian Academy Falcons don’t play the prettiest game on the pitch, and they would go on to lose after allowing several goals in the second half. And although the sun begins to set at the park, the players’ smiles are just as bright as they were before they first set foot in the park that afternoon. This is exactly what head coach Beni Jombai wants to see from this team, more than anything else: an appreciation for the world’s most popular sport. “I want them to develop a love for the game,” Jombai says. “Right now, this was our sixth game. We’re 0-6. I really don’t mind the losing record — the main thing is, they have a love for the game. If they have a love for the game, they’ll want to practice whether it’s rain, sun or snow, whatever the case is.” For a young school, looking to establish whatever traditions it can, this is good news. Faith Christian Academy is three years old and, by Jombai’s estimation, has a total of 60 students enrolled. Jombai himself teaches 17 fourth- and fifth-graders, and 12 of them make up his entire roster. “At the end of the day, it’s like, ‘Soccer team, get ready,’” he says. All of them are new to this, in

Who’s your favorite athlete of all time? It’s got to be Michael Vick. He can throw, and he’s fast. What else do you do for fun? Fishing. My favorite spot is over on Park Road. The biggest fish I ever caught was a 6-pound bass. What’s your favorite football movie? “The Waterboy.” Are you a big Madden player? No, sir. I like Call of Duty: Ghosts. Would you rather be rich or famous? Rich. If you’re just famous, a lot of people know you. If you’re rich, you could buy anything you want. What superpower would you want to have, and what would you do with it? Flying, so that I could get to places faster. If you could meet anyone, who would it be, and what would you talk about? Ray Lewis, and I would want to talk about football.

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PLANT CITY

RAIN

(INCHES)

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THURS. Nov. 20

0.00

FRI.

TEMPERATURES

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0.00

SAT.

Friday, Nov. 28 Saturday, Nov. 29 Sunday, Nov. 30 Monday, Dec. 1 Tuesday, Dec. 2 Wednesday, Dec. 3 Thursday, Dec. 4

Nov. 22

0.02

SUN.

Nov. 23

0.01

MON.

Nov. 24

0.00

TUES.

Nov. 25

3.93

WED.

Nov. 26

0.10

NOV.

TO DATE

5.50 (2013: 1.55)

YEAR

TO DATE 42.91 (2013: 37.69)

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LOW 46 52 58 59 61 61 62

SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES SUNRISE Friday, Nov. 28 7:00 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29 7:01 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 30 7:01 a.m. Monday, Dec. 1 6:57 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2 6:58 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3 6:58 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 4 6:59 a.m.

MOON PHASES

SUNSET 5:33 p.m. 5:33 p.m. 5:33 p.m. 5:33 p.m. 5:33 p.m. 5:33 p.m. 5:33 p.m.

Nov. 29

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Dec. 6

CORN SHIPPING POINT: ORLANDO Yellow White Bi-Color

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Dec. 15

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Dec. 21

Kathe Moore was taking an autumn walk 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.

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