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COMMUNITYCALENDAR FRIDAY, DEC. 5

Plant City. (813) 752- 9100.

Acoustic Happy Hour — live music takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 5, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

Young Adult Nite — takes place from 7:33 to 10:33 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 6, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

Enjoy live music from local artists. (813) 752-1220.

Blues Night with Don Lehman — takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15, 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

SUNDAY, DEC. 7

Christian Contemporary Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220.

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.

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.

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.

BEST BET Christmas Parade — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, in Historic Downtown. The procession will be led

by Grand Marshal Bruce Rodwell and proceed down Collins Street past McCall Park. (813) 754-3707.

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

Under the Lights: A series of one acts — performances begin at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Strawberry Crest High School, 4691 Gallagher Road. The theatre program will be performing “Just Like I Wanted”

by Rebecca Schlossberg, “10 Ways To Survive A Zombie Apocalypse” by Don Zolidis

and “The Nine Worst Breakups Of All Time” by Ian Mcwethy; a tragedy and two comedies.

(813) 707-7522.

SATURDAY, DEC. 6 Bike Night — takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, in Historic Downtown. (813) 754-3707.

Uncork Your Weekend with Daniel Sprouse — live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road,

The Christmas Cross — children’s program begins at 11 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at First United Methodist Church, 303 N. Evers St. (813) 7543519.

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 Ambassador’s Christmas Reception — takes place beginning at 5:15 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, at Chili’s, 3001 James L. Redman Parkway. The reception is for the Greater Plant

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.

City Chamber of Commerce ambassadors. For more information, call Tammy at (813) 754-3707.

The reception is for volunteers of the Tourist Information Center and Union Station Depot. (813) 754-3707.

Breaking the Chains of Addiction: A Christ-Centered Approach to Twelve Steps — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, at Holy Protection Church, 3820 Moores Lake Road, Dover.

(813) 766-8828.

THURSDAY, DEC. 11

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. Enjoy a potluck, Christmas carols, stocking challenge and a special speaker from Hope Lodge.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 10 Customer Appreciation Party — takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. Bring in two toys and receive two free drinks and a food buffet. There will also be an Angel Tree to get items for a specific child. The event will help support three local schools. (813) 764-8818.

Volunteer Reception — takes place from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 10, at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St.

Cork Holiday Concert — takes place beginning at 6 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 11, at Cork Elementary School, 3501 Cork Road. (813) 757-9353.

Customer Appreciation Party — takes place from 4 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 11, at Keller Williams, 1607 S. Alexander St. #102. There will be food, door prizes and socializing.

(813) 759-1200.

Independence School Christmas Programs — take place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at Independence Academy, 905 West Terrace Drive. (813) 7071060.

Trapnell Christmas Program — takes place beginning at 6 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 11, at Trapnell Elementary School, 1605 W. Trapnell Road. (813) 7579313.

Who’s the Man? Father and Child Development Playgroup — takes place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St.

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AMERICAN BEAUTY

by Catherine Sinclairr | Staff Writer

TCMS student wins pageant Kamille Long will now compete in the national American Beauty pageant.

neigh-ver give up by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer Courtesy photos

Riders wore costumes to correspond with each routine’s theme.

Mounted drill team takes it all at state competition Hearts 4 Horses won first place in all of its divisions and is working toward an opportunity to compete at the national level.

Forming patterns, weaving in and out and making sure everything lined up perfectly with the timing of musical medleys, riders from Hearts 4 Horses wowed the judges at a state-wide competition Nov. 15 and 16.

The mounted drill team performs synchronized routines to music, all while on horseback. Each routine has a theme, such as football or superheroes, and is complete with corresponding songs and costumes. Hearts 4 Horses has teams for youth and adults.

“You have 10 riders and 10 horses in the arena at the same time, trying to all do the same thing. It’s hard,” team leader Meghan Boyette said.

This was the sixth year Hearts 4 Horses has competed at the Sunshine State Mounted Drill Team Association’s state championships. The team won first place in every division it entered, and therefore, had the highest number of points overall.

Though the team took home ribbons and pla ues to commemorate their wins, Boyette said the best part for her was the satisfaction of success.

“You’re in an unfamiliar arena with other shows going on around you, and when the

team can talk together, and you just nail something you’ve been struggling with in practice ... you don’t even care if you place. You did it,” she said.

To prepare for the two-day competition, Hearts 4 Horses practiced two to three times per week at its barn at Painted Gaits Farm. They will continue this kind of rigorous preparation if they are sponsored to go to nationals next year.

The idea for Hearts 4 Horses was born years ago, when Boyette and other women from Painted Gaits went to the Florida State Fair and watched a mounted drill team perform.

The event caught their interest, so they went to an informational meeting about it at the fair.

“We just kind of put it together over the summer and started competing, and it’s been a huge hit since,” Boyette said.

There are currently six girls on the team, and four new young riders who have expressed interest. There are also 10 adults, some of which are parents of former youth riders who wanted to join aff ter watching their sons and daughters compete.

For eight years, Hearts 4

Horses also served as a 4-H club. But, this year, Boyette was not approved as a 4-H leader. She and parents at the barn called staff at the UF/ IFAS Extension of Hillsborough County, who make the decisions about 4-H leaders in the area, to ask why Boyette was not approved, but their questions were unanswered.

“It hurt my group, it hurt myself,” Boyette said. “They will not give you a reason. They just say, ‘We don’t want you this year’ ... The only response back was, ‘Some people make it and some people don’t.’”

Stephen Gran, county ex-

BY THE NUMBERS 2: Number of days at the state competition

5: Number of events in

which Hearts 4 Horses placed first 6: Number of routines performed each day 9: Average number of minutes for each routine 16: Number of total riders on the team tension director, said the application process includes a background check, interviews and a form application. Staff evaluate the materials and select certain volunteer leaders for approval.

Gran said he was unable to explain exactly why Boyette had not been approved this year.

“We have hundreds of volunteers that work with us to help us provide educational programming to our clientele,” Gran said. “Each of those volunteers have to apply on an annual basis, and their application is evaluated. Like any other volunteer, some are approved and some are not approved.”

He said a different volunteer could have applied to lead the club this year and potentially would have been approved.

Even with the challenges of being denied approval as a 4-H leader, Boyette is passionate about Hearts 4 Horses and will not be giving up on her team.

“If you could ever have a group of kids to be blessed with, this is it,” she said.

“They’re phenomenal.”

Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.

hit the floor by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

Color guard to raise funds with yard sale The Plant City High School color guard has to provide their own floor for competitions, and the current one they have is dangerous to dance on.

Waving their flags in spiraling formations, the graceful Plant City High School color guard is a vision of beauty during competitions. But one thing is not picture perfect when they compete — the team’s aging vinyl floor.

The color guard has to provide its own staging floor during its winter guard season starting in January. But the current floor is already four years old and has four layers of paint on it from past competitions. It is almost too heavy to carry because of the paint, and the peeling flakes are starting to make it dangerous for the team to dance on.

“Because there’s so many holes and wrinkles, you can’t lay it down flat, unior e ndale Sellers said. “It’s like dancing on an obstacle course.

To pay for a new floor, the team is hosting a yard sale fundraiser from a.m. to p.m. Saturday, ec. , at PCHS. professional-grade

Amber Jurgensen

Kendale Sellers, Caroline Guiddy, Bethany Guiddy and Rebecca Odom describe color guard as a “second family.” floor will cost the team about $1,000.

In past years, former leadership took shortcuts by taping a collage of vinyl billboards together to make a floor. When they lift it up, the team can see advertisements from McDonalds and dentists offices. Choreographer Andy Snow and coach Lauren Kenney wanted to get the real

thing for their color guard.

“It feels like they want to make us better, they want us to succeed,” sophomore Caroline Guiddy said. “I can fall back on them, I can trust them.”

Besides the floor not being a professional one, the paint has had a lot to do with its deterioration. For each competition, the floor is paint-

ed to match the song and theme. Last year, the team did a dance called “Sweater Weather,” where the dancers had a snowball fight with pillows and painted the floor to look like snow. After years of different paint jobs, the team can barely drag the current floor off the stage, and members said it rips if they pull it the wrong way.

This year, the routine to “Over You” involves a floor mural of a rushing river. There will be a bridge prop to signify overcoming the obstacles of ending a relationship. It’s an emotional piece, and having a new floor would only help the team in its performance.

“It means a better performance and something to work for,” junior Bethany Guiddy said.

The floor is the pinnacle of the winter guard season. Unlike the marching season, the team is in winter guard for the art of performance rather than support for the band

IF YOU GO PCHS COLOR GUARD YARD SALE When: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 6 Where: PCHS, 1 Raider Place If you can’t make it, contact team treasurer Beth Odom at (813) 300-3707 to donate. or entertainment during the football game.

“I remember last year, the first competition we had — just remembering hearing the crowd,” senior Rebecca Odom said. “You can connect with the audience.”

The team also hosts a large competition at PCHS every year. This year it will be in February. The competition is one of its biggest fundraisers.

“I like the performances,” Odom said. “It’s like a second family.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

Turkey Creek Middle School seventh-grader Kamille Long out-shined her competition at the Miss Florida American Beauty Pageant Nov. 21 to 23, and was named Junior Miss Florida American Beauty.

Long entered her first pageant when she was just 2 years old and has competed in many events since then.

“Pageants help me do stuff on my own and become a young lady,” Long said. “It helps raise my self-confidence.

Even if someone tries to bully me, I’m going to turn it away.”

As the winner of Junior Miss Tampa American Beauty this year, she was sent on to compete at the state level. She won against four other girls in her division, for ages 12 to 14. The competition included interview, casual wear and evening gown stages.

In addition to her crown, banner and trophy — which was pink, her favorite color — Long received prizes worth $5,000 total, such as clothing and pageant-related services.

She will appear in parades and charity events around the state during her reign.

Long will represent the state of Florida in the national American Beauty competition in Orlando June 24, 2015.

At the national level, winners also receive scholarships. And, their level of responsibility increases.

“You go to more events, you get to reign longer,” Long said.

Long said she wants to improve her interview skills before the national event.

“That’s a big thing I have to work on,” she said.

Recently, Long also competed in the TCMS Calendar Girls pageant and was crowned Miss April.

“That was really fun because all of my friends were doing it,” Long said.

It was exciting for her to see some of her friends compete in a pageant for their first time.

Long said she does not usually buy new dresses for her pageants. She and her mother, Brigittia Long, search for used dresses in top shape online and at consignment shops.

Community service is also an important part of pageantry for Long. One of her most recent projects was a collection of clothing and school supplies to help a girl who had finished eighth grade at TCMS but could not afford everything she needed for high school.

Long said that by volunteering, she learns about government and law, which will help her someday if she follows her dream of becoming a lawyer.

Other than pageants, Long is involved in a number of extra-curricular activities. She is a cheerleader with Storm All Stars Cheer and Dance, and a member of the FFA at TCMS. She also hopes to try out for volleyball this year.

Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.

Catherine Sinclair

Kamille Long received a crown and banner as Junior Miss Florida American Beauty.

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son was going through treatments. But, they were in a race against time and limited funds. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Because thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no harvest up there, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing for them to do,â&#x20AC;? Wyatt said.

The family decided to split up. Because the mother does not speak fluent English, the oldest son, who has finished school, will stay with her in Michigan, to serve as a translator and interpreter. The father hopes to return to Plant City with the youngest son, Wyattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s student at Bryan, so he can work and the boy can return to school.

After the hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social worker talked to the family and discovered that the youngest son had known Wyatt for all five of his years at Bryan, she called Wyatt to ask how she might be able to help. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The only thing I can do is think of how to raise some funds for the family,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? Wyatt said.

She also will be reaching out to local civic clubs to find out whether they can join the mission. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anything the community can do to help would be greatly appreciated,â&#x20AC;? Wyatt said.

Wyatt has set up an online fundraising page, with a goal of $2,000. One agency has donated $500 to help cover the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hotel costs, but the biggest expense they face at this point is that of a car, so that the father and youngest son can travel back to Plant City. Their old car was destroyed in the crash.

To donate, visit FundMe. com/en/projects/12707Migrant-family---Child-inhospital.

Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver.com.

for every unit that fought in the war. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You hear from word of mouth, you find some at Goodwill stores, you find things online,â&#x20AC;? Bushaw says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We just looked until we found one that had a patch on it, from every unit that we were looking for.â&#x20AC;?

It took nearly 12 years, but he has been able to track down the 108 uniforms he was looking for. Many of the uniforms in Bushawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection have names attached to them, as his research has been able to identify the original owners and further tell the stories behind the clothing items.

Of course, Bushaw couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t say no to other things that heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s come across in his searches.

Visitors to the exhibit will likely see this immediately, as

ARTIST / PAGE 1

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The park will not be decorated for Christmas this year.

Because city officials were not sure how quickly the park would be complete, they did not order decorations for it.

But, it will be decorated for next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s holiday season.

City Manager Mike Herrâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next steps for the Midtown redevelopment are to verify the status of remaining funds and determine the remaining properties to be acquired.

There are also some properties in the process of being evaluated for acquisition. The properties and value of remaining funds will be disclosed at a later date, Herr said.

Before requesting a quote from the potential developing companies, Herr would like to have a market study conducted on the area, through a real estate consultant. Then, requests for quotes will be submitted between January and April 2015.

EXHIBIT / PAGE 1

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festively than in the United States. He studied at the Academy of Fine Art in his hometown. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My first public art was Christmas decoration,â&#x20AC;? Demolli said.

Friends and family members began asking him to paint the windows of their restaurants and businesses with a colorful display of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Buon Natale,â&#x20AC;? which means â&#x20AC;&#x153;Merry Christmasâ&#x20AC;? in Italian.

Demolli moved to the U.S. in 1994, and his love for Christmas-themed art came with him. He and his wife eventually became Floridians, to be closer to their daughter, a Plant City resident, and other family members.

Though he forms most designs in his head for his window paintings, if a business owner requests something specific, he will gladly comply.

At a fitness center in Tampa, Demolli painted a rather muscular Santa on the beach, and in Clearwater, a Jewish business owner asked for a Star of David and menorah. His work is also seen on windows in Lakeland, Bradenton, Pal-

Catherine Sinclair

The park is situated between Evers and Wheeler streets, south of Renfro Street. It is just blocks from the Historic Downtown District. Street parking is available. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the short time heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been here, (Herr) has been very aggressive on marketing the Midtown area and starting the conversation with potential developers,â&#x20AC;? Collins said.

She expects the Village Green to contribute, as well â&#x20AC;&#x201D; particularly when they assess the area in the spring and

anyone who wishes to donate money towards the exhibit can do so by dropping it in a used 210-millimeter artillery shell.

He plans to display nearly 60 other items that were in use during the war, as a complement to the rest of the exhibit.

It wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be the first time metto and other nearby cities.

In Plant City, he expects to create more designs around town before the Christmas season is over. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have the best ideas when it comes to Christmas, because I grew up with it,â&#x20AC;? Demolli said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best time of the year. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something for everybody. Not only the children with their toys, but also the older people get happy.â&#x20AC;?

For these Christmas displays, he first sketches an outline on the window with a marker, and then finishes the masterpiece with acrylic paint. This medium is easy to remove, which he typically does during the first week of January, but some business owners have kept the decorations on their windows for months.

Demolliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work is hardly restricted to Santa, reindeer, elves and snowmen. He is a professional public artist yearround, with much of his work being murals and macro art.

These are on display at businesses, museums, churches and public spaces all over the U.S. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good public art has to say something about the public. It says, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;This is who we are. This

is where we come from, this is what we want, this is what we think,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? he said.

One of Demolliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most-loved forms of painting is the nostalgic mural. Many business owners who have commissioned him â&#x20AC;&#x201D; specifically, restaurant owners â&#x20AC;&#x201D; have requested murals of their hometowns or other places that are close to their hearts. As they point out the finished piece to their customers, tears of pride sometimes form in their eyes, Demolli said.

Esposito Pizza displays one of Demolliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nostalgic murals on its back wall. The painting shows a beach scene and the city of Naples, the restaurant ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hometown.

A different wall at Esposito Pizza features a series of large paintings of vegetables: tomatoes, eggplant, peppers and others. Demolli said he was inspired by Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s agriculture when he created this macro art. A similar set of paintings is on display at The Corner Store.

Coming from a highly religious city, Demolli is familiar with and skilled in sacred art, as well. At First Assembly of God in Mulberry, in Polk

IF YOU GO WHERE: John R. Trinkle Center at Hillsborough Community College, 1206 N. Park Road.

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 7; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

COST: Free To read up on more World War II information visit Ron Bushawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s educational site AmericanHeroes. name.

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the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s botanicals are in full bloom. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That is very attractive to potential developers coming into the area,â&#x20AC;? Collins said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a feature that they like to have.â&#x20AC;?

Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.

Bushaw put some of his collection out on display, but he says that this event will be the largest heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ever done. This is because he plans to highlight four major battles from the war: the D-Day invasion, Operation Market Garden, the Battle of the Bulge and Iwo Jima. There will also be uniforms from other countries on display, such as 10 from the English military.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bushawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hope that the exhibit will benefit younger people the most, perhaps even inspiring them to try to preserve the history he and other collectors strive so hard to protect. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They need to know about what happened during World War II,â&#x20AC;? Bushaw says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to generate excitement with the younger generation.â&#x20AC;?

Contact Justin Kline at JKline@plantcityobserver.com.

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FAST FACTS

JESSE DEMOLLI Hometown: Florence, Italy Education: Academy of Fine Art, Florence First public mural: Painted age 13 Years painting in the United States: 20 Where to view in Plant City: Esposito Pizza, The Corner Store Website: demolliart.com County, he painted a 13-foot face of Jesus and some biblical text. In other churches around the country he has painted scenes from biblical passages, cathedral ceilings and more.

No matter what piece he is working on, Demolli hopes it will be personally relatable for anyone who views it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I always considered myself a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; because I do paint life that reflects actual people,â&#x20AC;? Demolli said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I do my own style, my own technique, but I see through the eyes of the people.â&#x20AC;?

Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.

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EVERGREEN by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

Three generations helped out at the lot: Walt, Jared and Jeff Arnold.

Optimist tree lot open for season The Plant City Optimist Club Tree Lot is officially open for business. The lot located at Plant City High School, 1 Raid-

er Place, has a variety of fresh Christmas trees to pick from, as well as holiday wreaths. Proceeds go to help the Optimist

Club with service projects. The tree lot is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays.

Logan and Shannon Williamson

Shalaine Solomon

The Optimist Club members trimmed the trees for customers.

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SYMPHONIC SISTERS

by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

Courtesy photos

Susannah Monnik is the only Monnik sister who plays cello.

Emily Monnik is the concertmaster for the Durant High School orchestra.

Musicians raise money to perform at Carnegie Hall

The Monnik sisters will play at Krazy Kup for donations, to help cover the costs of this prestigious opportunity.

Plant City Times & Observer Locally Owned by Ed Verner, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes The Plant City Times & Observer is published by Plant City Media LLC, a joint-venture of the Tampa Bay Times and Plant City Observer LLC.

110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 704-6850 www.PlantCityObserver.com

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CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Fridays.

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money to make it there.

Next week, two of the sisters, Susannah and Emily Monnik, will be playing at Krazy Kup for a special fundraiser concert.

Susannah, a cellist, and Emily, a violinist, are in the orchestra at Durant High School, where Emily is the concertmaster. Their older sister, Kristen Monnik, lives in the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hometown of New Orleans and recently graduated from Loyola University with a degree in violin performance.

The Monniks have been playing their instruments since about the time they were each in kindergarten. They have performed in symphony orchestras since they were 8 years old, and Susannah and Emily are currently involved with the Tampa Metropolitan Youth Orchestra.

Earlier this year, the Monniks found out from one of their previous conductors that Carnegie Hall would be hosting a special competition. Musicians from across the nation could submit audition videos and hope to be selected as members of a collaborative orchestra to perform at the hall and around New York City in June 2015. The Monnik sisters sent videos that showcased their talents and musicianship, and all three of them were chosen. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I heard I was selected to go to Carnegie, I was completely shocked,â&#x20AC;? Emily said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know if I have ever been more excited about something in my life.â&#x20AC;?

The Monniksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mother, Anne Monnik Mawhinney, is a professional musician and understands the value of this trip. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a lifelong dream, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing, to be able to play there,â&#x20AC;? Mawhinney said.

But, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity comes with a big price tag. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They have to raise quite a lot of money as a down payment for the concert hall and the hotels,â&#x20AC;? Mawhinney said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m having to come up with several thousand dollars in a hurry.â&#x20AC;?

To help cover some of the expenses, Susannah and Emily will be playing at Krazy Kup from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12.

There is no cost to watch the performance, but any tips the sisters receive will be used toward the trip.

Mawhinney also has set up an online fundraising site at GoFundMe.com/hc1ozc.

Though no details have been confirmed yet, Mawhinney hopes her daughters will be able to perform at additional

IF YOU GO FUNDRAISER DETAILS When: 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 Where: Krazy Kup Address: 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd, Plant City Cost: Admission is free.

Donations appreciated.

To give online: GoFundMe. com/hc1ozc

places around town, such as parks and Publix, to raise more money within the next few weeks.

In addition to the unique chance to perform at such a famous venue, the Monniks are looking forward to playing together in the same orchestra, which they have never done before because of their differences in age and skill level throughout the years. But, they have often played together at churches, weddings, special events and anywhere else they are able. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something we can always do together, even though weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve grown up a lot since weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve started and live apart

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Three local sisters have been invited to showcase their musical talents at Carnegie Hall in New York City next summer.

But first, they need to raise

When I heard I was selected to go to Carnegie, I was completely shocked. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know if I have ever been more excited about something in my life. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Emily Monnik

from each other,â&#x20AC;? Susannah said.

Kristen hopes to attend graduate school for music, and Mawhinney said Emily and Susannah will likely keep up their musical endeavors in college, even if they do not major in performance. Regardless of their specific paths, playing in a symphony orchestra at Carnegie Hall and working with the New York Philharmonic will help all three sisters increase their musicianship. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know walking onto that stage is going to be a lifechanging experience,â&#x20AC;? Emily said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think playing in the hall that I have only dreamed about playing at is going to give me a whole new love for music, and I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait.â&#x20AC;?

Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.

Plant City Times &

Observer

General Manager/Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com General Manager/Advertising / Stacey Hudson, shudson@tampabay.com Managing Editor / Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writers / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com; Catherine Sinclair, csinclair@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Executives / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@PlantCityObserver.com; Joanna Verga, jverga@tampabay.com Circulation/Office Manager / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

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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TURKEY TIME by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

Hope Lutheran Church had a big team.

Runners stuff competition during Thanksgiving 5K On Thanksgiving, most of us were stuffing our stomachs and thinking about working the pounds off later. But a group of dedicated athletes woke up early on the holiday for a greater cause than just keeping trim. The annual YMCA Turkey Trot 5K and Gobble Walk had runners race around the wooded trails of Walden Lake to support its programs.

Pete Coffey, Grady Coffey, Layla Coffey, Suzie Coffey and Erika Carvalho

Nicole Carleton, Jodie Peace and Ashley Terry

Aidan, Christy and Sarah Keel

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TO THE EDITOR

+ Now That’s Customer Service Please acknowledge Publix on Jim Redman as I recently had a port put in, still trying to do Thanksgiving dinner, as I had my Turkey all ready for my husband to go into the oven.

The Turkey did not smell right, so I called Publix and spoke to Kevin and he offered for me to come up there to replace it.

I explain to him I was not able: stove was on, and I could not drive, and husband had just came in and was not going to leave me.

He said, “No worries. What is your address?”

To my surprise, he said, “I am on my way to your home with a fresh turkey. Your Thanksgiving will be blessed. That is our job — to please our customers.”

He is the meat manager named Kevin. He went way out of his way for us. He deserves to be recognized for this amazing caring manger. We shop there and use the pharmacy, and they are all wonderful, however, he did not know us, or rather, we shopped there but he cared.

Thanks Kevin for understanding our situation and showing us what Thanksgiving is all about. Not another grocery store would have done this on one of the busy days.

— Thankful Family

+ A Plant City Team Effort I’d like to share my experience for the day my car broke down.

I was upset that it happened.

A young couple, Brad and Brittany, stopped to give me a helping hand. A police officer also stopped and helped us.

I think this speaks highly of our police department here in Plant City. Our police men and women are here to help us when we are in need, as well as to keep our town safe to live in.

Brad and Brittany pushed my car to a safe place. Another gentleman gave some assistance. The police man also did. A young man, in a pick-up truck, stopped, gave us a big smile and said, “Only in Plant City!”

I thought about that later.

He was right. We have a small, somewhat country town that is fairly safe to live in. We can take walks through the town without great fear. We have very little serious crime here.

We focus on people’s good deeds and young people’s accomplishments.

This is our town, and people helping people is part of it. I appreciate our town and the warmth of the people here comes from most everyone here.

— A Proud Plant Citian

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YOUNG MINDS by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

Lincoln measures up at Invention Convention

Students were excited to read comments left in their logs.

Elijah West came up with an idea for making sure shoes stay tied.

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OBSERVEROBITUARIES Ethel Irene Barnes

Ethel Irene Barnes, 86, of Mulberry, died Nov. 26, 2014.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Johnny Cargile; second husband, Jim George Barnes; and son, Johnny Cargile Jr. She was a great woman who was always there for her family, whom she loved very much. She is survived by her children, Billy Cargile, Eddie Cargile, Irene Ford (Chuck) and Patricia Brooks (George); siblings, Mildred, Annie Faye and Leroy; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family and friends.

A celebration of life was held Dec. 2, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Private interment at Hopewell Memorial Gardens.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Michael L. Bellino

Michael L. Bellino, 72, died Nov. 26, 2014, in Plant City.

Mr. Bellino moved from Utica, New York, to Florida in 1999.

He is predeceased by sisters, Donna Morreale (Pat), and Marlene Testa (Joseph); sisterin-law, Bonnie Bellino; and brother-in-law, Russell Gambino. Surviving are his loving wife of 48 years, Kathleen Bellino; son, Michael W. Bellino (Tracy); daughter, Jaclyn Conte (Richard); brother, Arthur Bellino; sister-in-law, Harriett Gambino; and grandchildren, Jillian

Rae Bellino and Isabella Conte.

A celebration of life was held Dec. 1, at Wells Memorial. Condolences may be offered at WellsMemorial.com.

Bobby Bargo Brock

Bobby Bargo Brock, 85, of Plant City, died Nov. 27, 2014, at Saint Joseph Hospital in Tampa.

Mr. Brock has been called home after decades of faithful service to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Born Oct. 3, 1929, in Indianapolis, Indiana, he was the son of the late Clyde and Zelia Bargo Brock. He was the husband of Bonnie Rodden Brock for 62 years; She survives.

Mr. Brock was a 1948 graduate of Plant City High School, and a missionary since 1966. He began his life’s calling with the children and youth of America, working with Children’s Bible Mission and later, Boys and Girls for Jesus. He became an independent missionary with his loving wife and partner in 1984, working with schools, summer camps and Bible clubs to touch young lives and guide young minds.

Also surviving are sons, Ralph Brock (Arlene), Ronald Brock (Darlene), Derrick Brock (Antonia) and Dan Hicks (Lauri); 10 grandchildren; five greatgrandchildren; and many boys and girls through his ministry.

A service was held Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Haught Funeral

Home Chapel. If so desired, the family requests that donations be made to carry on his legacy by contributing to a worthy children’s mission or charity of your choice. Condolences may be made to the family at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

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.

Laura was preceded in death by her brother, James Johnson.

She is survived by her husband, James R Cameron (Jim Bob), 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 to followed at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. Reverend Philip Baker officiated. In lieu of

flowers, monetary gifts nay be given to help defray the costs of burial.

Mike Cunningham

Mike Cunningham, 38, of Plant City, died Nov. 24, 2014.

He is survived by mother, Debbi Cunningham; father, Stephen Cunningham (Victoria); brother, Steve Cunningham; niece, Stephani Cunningham; grandmother, Faustine Price; aunts, Bunny Cunningham, Donna Cornelius and Cindy Callahan (Jim); uncles, Tony Price (Elaine), Kenny Price and Roy Price (Kim); and many extended family and friends.

A celebration of life was held Dec. 1, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

Joseph Leon Delorme

Joseph Leon Delorme, 93, of Plant City, died Nov. 22, 2014, at Bartow Health and Rehab Center.

Born March 20, 1921, in Burlington, Vermont, he was the son of the late Edward and the Edith Brace Delorme. He was the husband of Elizabeth St’Amour Delorme; She survives. Also surviving is son, Gary Delorme.

The family will be having private services. Condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Michael Clayton Fleming

Michael Clayton Fleming, 48, of Plant City, died Nov. 28, 2014, at South Florida Baptist Hospital.

Born Nov. 17, 1966, he was the son of the late Jerry Fleming and Lela Waddell Pittman; She survives.

Also surviving are ex-wife, Alisha Moore; son, Zachary Fleming; daughters, Destiny Dawson, Chelsey Fleming and Angelina Fleming; brothers, Randy Fleming, Scott Fleming and James Pittman Jr.; and sisters, Linda Fleming and Stephanie Hathcox.

Mr. Fleming was of the Baptist faith, and was a proud and loving father, and a hard worker, driving a local truck for 14 years. He was also a Buccaneers fan.

A funeral service was held Dec. 4, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel. Condolences may be made to the family at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Earline Alice Hall

Earline Alice Hall, 89, of Zolfo Springs, died Nov. 30, 2014.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Angus Hall Sr.; and son, Wilson Jr. She is survived by children, Lora “Jeni” Adamson (Jim), Dave Hall (Beverly) and Alice Rivera (Joe); siblings, Lucille Floyd and Iris Pitten; and nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at Cedar Grove Baptist Church, 8021 Cedar Grove Church Road, Plant City, where the family will receive friends

beginning at 10:30 a.m. Interment at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Plant City. You may honor our mother with flowers or a memorial contribution to Somers Hospice House, 1110 Hammock Road, Sebring, Florida, 33870. Condolence may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

Hortensia Mendosa Hernandez

Hortensia Mendosa Hernandez, 59, of Plant City, died Nov. 28, 2014, at Brandon Hospital.

Born Jan. 11, 1955, in Monterrey, Mexico, she was the daughter of the late Macario Mendoza and Socorro Torres; she survives. She was the wife of Martin Hernandez; He survives.

Also surviving are sons, Francisco Hernandez, Alex Hernandez, Adrian Hernandez and Macario Hernandez; daughter, Rachel Hernandez; and five grandchildren.

A funeral service was held Dec. 3, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel. Interment was at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Nancy Mae (Brack) Powell

Nancy Mae (Brack) Powell, 71, of Plant City, died Nov. 24, 2014.

She is survived by her daughters, Sherrie (David), Cheryl and Susan; and a host of family and friends. Everyone who knew her loved her. She would take the shirt off her back to help someone.

A celebration of life was held Sunday, Nov. 30 at East Thonotosassa Baptist Church.

Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Ashlyn Myers is leading her basketball team with 17.0 points per game. 14 SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

SIDELINES Do you have a good sports scoop for us? Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

SOFTBALL

+ Porter to step back from project On Dec. 1, longtime International Softball Federation President and CEO Don Porter made it known that he wishes to spend more time with his family and will no longer be involved with the push to bring softball to the 2020 Olympics.

“As President of the International Softball Federation (ISF) for the past 26 years (and CEO for 15), I have decided to step back and allow new leadership to move the ISF ahead in deciding its Olympic future, which we feel is close by (Tokyo 2020), and further development of the sport,” Porter said in a press release.

Porter and his wife, Jean, will be moving to Oklahoma City later this month to be closer to their extended family. But, he has agreed to continue overseeing the push to bring the Hall of Fame Museum to Plant City and will also help current President Dale McMann with other, as of yet unnamed, projects.

“My wife, Jean, and I have enjoyed and appreciated being part of the Plant City and Hillsborough community for the past 14 years, and hope we can continue it from time to time,” Porter says.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2014

fishing by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

If it’s not the only high school fishing club in the area, it’s the only team since the PCHS team folded years ago.

an old promise

Strawberry Crest fishing team Making opens inaugural season with win good on The Strawberry Crest High School fishing team hasn’t existed for very long, but it’s already making a splash in the Florida B.A.S.S. Nation circuit.

The team traveled to Tavares for the Nov. 23 Duel on Dora bass fishing tournament, and anglers Jonathan North and Russell Butler ended up winning the whole thing. It’s a performance that the team is hoping will help draw interest from potential sponsors, as well as potential new members.

NOT JUST A TEAM

In order to field a fishing team in the school’s name,

there first had to be a fishing club. The wheels for that project were set in motion this year, and with the leadership of Senior President Harry Linsinbigler, a group of 15 anglers came to be. Many of the members came from the Lakeland Junior Bassmasters and sought the advice of club President Martin Bozeman when they needed it.

“He is the driving force behind all youth fishing in Florida,” Russ Butler Sr. says.

Many of the boys’ parents, such as Butler Sr. and Dale North, were also willing to help the club get started.

Whether giving advice, loan-

Courtesy photo

The only team in the Plant City area can now claim that it has a 100% success rate in tournaments during the high school season. ing out a bass boat or even captaining one during a competition, the team dads have been fully supportive of the club.

“We’re trying to teach them

how to get out there and speak to people,” Dale North says.

“That’s one good thing about this club — it puts them out

SEE FISHING / PAGE 14

softball by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

FOOTBALL

+ Championships back in Plant City One of the biggest youth football tournaments in the country is coming back to Plant City.

The 2014 United Youth Football League National Championships are slated to run at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2602 E. Cherry St., from Dec. 6 to 12. There will be numerous teams from all over the country competing, and even some little hometown heroes: several Plant City Dolphins squads will be participating, and if last year was any indication, they could go far.

After certification Dec. 6, the games will begin Dec. 7, and run all day long. Each day will follow a similar format, with the exception of Dec. 11, running from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The championship games will be held all day Dec. 12.

As with the 2013 event, the “My Mom is a Superstar” competition will also be held throughout the week.

The Cheer Championships will be held Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Tampa State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 41 Business, Tampa. It will include cheer, step and dance teams. The “My Dad is a Diva” competition will also be held there that day.

The football action will take up seven fields in the sports complex and a visual guide is available on the home page of the UYFL website.

To purchase tickets, visit UnitedYFL.com/championships/event-tickets.

Justin Kline

Mike Crabb spent the last 10 of his 25 years as a coach with the Durant Lady Cougars.

Longtime Durant softball assistant coach retires Through all of his years of coaching, Mike Crabb was able to coach his daughter, Brittany, and help Durant win the 2012 state championship.

Durant softball assistant coach Mike Crabb knew that he would eventually leave the game on his own terms, but didn’t always know when that would be. Now, after 25 years in the game, he has decided that it’s time to pursue other interests.

“I think you have to have no doubts, when it comes time to practice,” Crabb says. “And it’s to the point, now, where I get off in the afternoon and I’m like, ‘Do I want to go to practice?’”

An assistant under Durant coach and friend Matt Carter, Crabb spent the last decade with the Lady Cougars after coming up through the Little League and travel ball circuits.

Having been able to coach his daughter, Brittany, and help Durant win the 2012 state championship, he simply feels that he’s done everything he could possibly want to do in the game.

“I think I’ve had a great run,” Crabb says. “I’ve enjoyed it.

I can’t say I have any regrets about leaving — I think I’ve done everything I’ve set out to accomplish.”

FAMILY AFFAIR

Crabb didn’t get into coaching just to work with his daughter. He was actually involved in the game before he had any children.

After marrying his wife, Audra, Crabb was encouraged to join her father-in-law in coaching for nearby Pinecrest Little League in 1987. Though Brittany started playing teeball at age 5, Crabb didn’t switch over to coach her team right away.

He became more involved in the game itself four years later, when Brittany got the opportunity to play travel ball with the Tampa Mustangs.

Although it was a learning experience for Crabb in itself, he

became even more attuned to the game when Brittany turned 14 and the team was folding. When an opportunity with the Florida Maniacs came up, both father and daughter were on board.

“We played against this guy, Tom Taylor, for years, and when the team folded up, he offered her a spot to come play for him,” Crabb says. “He took me under his wing and taught me quite a lot about the game. He truly is one of the best coaches in the state of Florida.”

Around the same time, Crabb met Carter and joined up with the Lady Cougars in 2004, while Brittany was enrolled there. Both Crabbs stayed with the Maniacs in the high school offseasons, until Brittany graduated in 2007.

That marked the end of an era for her father.

SEE COACH / PAGE 14

COVERING ALL BASES Though Mike Crabb has coached softball for much of his career, he did experiment with the boys’ game at one time.

When his son, Michael, was in Bloomingdale Little League, Crabb coached his team for a year.

It was then that he realized he wanted to stick with the girls.

“I found the boys were a lot harder to coach than girls,” Crabb says. “Boys, at that age — he was around 7 or 8 — are a lot harder to coach. Girls would just sit down and listen; boys were like billy goats. They just wanted to push and shove. That was an interesting season.”

Before I get started, I just want to say that I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving.

Over the weekend, I went back to Fort Myers to visit some friends from my days at Florida Gulf Coast University and act like a college student again — but with more than just $50 in my checking account.

I was out golfing nine holes with one of my fraternity brothers, “Squints,” when my phone started buzzing in my pocket.

JUSTIN It was a KLINE calendar alert that I had forgot I set for myself.

Probably because I had created the alert last December.

“Athlete/Team of the Year Peoples Choice,” it read.

I had no idea what it meant, but when I returned to Plant City I remembered a promise that I made to all of you in a column that I wrote many months ago: I’d let you all sound off and give me your ideas for our athletes and teams of the year edition. With it fast approaching, I think the time to get started on that is right now.

We’ve had a heck of a year out here, athletically, and I’m currently racking my brain for worthy nominations. My problem isn’t that there’s a lack of them, but that there are so many great squads and players to pick from.

That’s where I’d like for all of you to come in.

Since there’s only one of me, I can say that I’ve only seen so much with my own eyes; Maybe there’s someone I need to know about, or some team that’s performed way beyond expectations that needs some love from the local paper. I’d love to know, and I’d love for you, readers, to keep me in the loop.

From right now until 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, my email inbox will be open to any and all suggestions.

Send suggestions to jkline@plantcityobserver. com. In the subject line, please put either “Athlete of the Year” or “Team of the Year,” followed by the name of the team or person.

Tell me why the team or person you’re nominating deserves to be recognized.

Please keep it simple — I just need to know who they are and what they’ve done in 2014 that makes them so great. Also, please back up any statistics or information that you send me with your sources, so that I can verify any information.

Lastly, please let me know how I’d be able to reach that team or person by phone or email.

If it’s a high school team, I’ll just need to know the name of the coach.

I’m looking forward to hearing your input!

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP COACH / PAGE 13 “Any time my daughter played was just an amazing thing,” he says. “I just loved the game so much, and she made it possible for me to be a part of this. Any time she pitched, or played the field — those were some of the most amazing times I’ll never forget.”

Instead of leaving the sport right then, Crabb decided to hang around. What followed were some of the best years of his coaching career.

LESS STRESS, MORE GOLD

“Coaching a child, there’s a lot of emotion that goes into it,” Crabb says. “With (Brittany) being gone, I thought it would be a good chance for me to be more into a game than worrying about how she was doing.”

He was right. Crabb says that the last seven years at Durant were by far his least stressful as a coach, and a “totally different” experience from what he had gotten used to.

“Coaching her was the best time I ever had, but coaching without her was some of the most relaxing coaching I’ve ever done,” he says.

The team had shown some promise for some time, and that all came to a head in the 2012 season. That team went 24-4 en route to the state title, outscoring its Final Four opponents 15-4 in the process.

It’s his favorite memory from a long coaching career, possibly the pinnacle of his softball success.

IT’S JUST TIME

Durant’s program has been fairly successful since then, and the team still looks good in this upcoming season. But, after completing the fall ball season, Crabb spoke with Carter and decided it was simply time to wrap it up.

Crabb wants to spend more time with his growing family, travel more often with his wife and celebrate other successes. Brittany has since married, and she and her husband are starting a fam-

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ily of their own. And, Audra earned a degree in Business Management in October, after working on it part-time in between her work schedule and raising the family.

“Because of (Audra), I was able to do it,” Crabb says. “She was able to stand behind me, whatever decision I made.

She’s a big reason I got into it, and a big reason I got out of it.

It’s kind of come full-circle.”

But, as with many athletes and coaches, this isn’t the end of Crabb’s love for softball itself. He was offered a parttime position, which he did consider, but decided that he had to commit himself fulltime to coaching if he were to make the impact that he’d want to make — and going full-time just isn’t what he wants to do anymore. He may be back in some capacity in a few years, but that just depends on where life takes him.

“I can’t say, four or five years from now, that I wouldn’t get back into it,” he says.

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

FISHING / PAGE 13

SPONSOR INFO

there in front of other teams, other peers and adults.”

The team is currently looking for sponsors. For more information, contact Dale North at (813) 695-4200, or email schsbassmasters@gmail.com.

DUEL ON DORA

The weather wasn’t perfect for fishing around Thanksgiving week, making strategic tournament fishing even trickier for the team.

“There are a lot of people who just fish in backyards, but the tournament stuff is a couple of levels above that,” North says. “You’ve got to have different tactics for different scenarios.”

Butler says that the key to success is to think like a fish.

“We just had a cold front come through the day before,” Butler says. “It was supposed to be raining that day, too, but luckily, it didn’t. So, the bite was kind of shut off. There was no pressure changing how the fish would act, if they would feed and stuff.”

They knew they’d have to

find clear water to find any fish. Once the anglers found their patch, they had to keep the best interests of the fish in mind. In this case, the boys knew that the bass wouldn’t be hungry — the cold front had already driven the fish to eat plenty, even before the tournament began. Instead, the only way to get a bite would be to intrude on the fishes’ territory.

“With the bait we were throwing, we were trying to mimic a wounded bait fish,” North says. “You’ve got to throw what they’re wanting, what they know is natural to their environment.”

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

ASHLYN MYERS It’s not often that a high school freshman starts for a varsity sports team. It’s even rarer when she makes an immediate impact. But, that’s exactly what guard Ashlyn Myers has done for the Durant Lady Cougars in 2014. Her 17.0 points per game leads the team, which has gotten off to a 4-2 start as of press time and tied for first in the district.

What’s your role been on this team?

My role is to keep the pace of the game going, slow the team down a little bit, have the team execute plays.

And, to have fun.

You’re a freshman, but you’re already making a big impact for the team. What’s that like for you?

I think it’s just a great opportunity to have a good experience, and I’m just grateful to be on the varsity team as a freshman.

How long have you been playing basketball?

About four years.

How did you get your start?

I was a little bit curious in sixth grade.

I heard there were basketball tryouts and I was like, ‘Oh, I’m pretty fast.’ So, I thought I’d try it.

The team has really turned its luck around this year, compared to last year.

How does it feel, to be a part of a rebuilding project like this?

I think it’s pretty cool to see the team building back up, to make progress again, executing plays properly and just having fun.

Which game has been your favorite this year?

I think it was the Wharton game, because we were down by about, maybe, 15 points, and we just made a comeback. Working the plays properly, making the passes, getting steals and layups.

Do you play any other sports?

I used to play football.

It was with the Brandon Cowboys. I played there for maybe seven years.

What’s your favorite food?

Hamburgers. I like bacon cheddar burgers from Cheddar’s.

What’s your favorite movie?

Transformers. I like that whole series.

What’s your favorite pro sports team?

I like the Seattle Seahawks.

What about college?

The Florida Gators.

If you could be either rich or famous, what would you pick?

Rich, because I don’t need everyone knowing who I am. If I’m rich, I can help my family through hard times and get my kids through college. I can do a lot more with money than fame.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

To fly. I would want to fly to Italy.

If you could meet anybody, and have a conversation with them, who would it be and what would you talk about?

I guess Skylar Diggins. I would talk to her about basketball, and how she got up to the level she’s at.

How far do you want to go with basketball?

I plan to get into college, but I don’t really know what I want to do from there. I want to go to Florida or UConn.

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PLANT CITY

RAIN

(INCHES)

WEATHER

THURS. Nov. 27

0.00

FRI.

TEMPERATURES

Nov. 28

0.00

SAT.

Friday, Dec. 5 Saturday, Dec. 6 Sunday, Dec. 7 Monday, Dec. 8 Tuesday, Dec. 9 Wednesday, Dec. 10 Thursday, Dec. 11

Nov. 29

0.00

SUN.

Nov. 30

0.00

MON.

Dec. 1

0.05

TUES.

Dec. 2

0.01

WED.

Dec. 3

0.00

Dec.

TO DATE

0.06 (2013: 0.00)

YEAR

TO DATE 42.97 (2013: 37.76)

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

HIGH 82 81 78 76 73 68 67

SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES SUNRISE Friday, Dec. 5 7:05 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 6 7:06 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 7 7:07 a.m.

Monday, Dec. 8 7:07 a.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 9 7:08 a.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 10 7:09 a.m.

Thursday, Dec. 11 7:09 a.m.

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.

5:35 p.m.

LOW 63 62 57 56 49 51 53

MOON PHASES

Dec. 6

, 3&

Dec. 15

BEANS SHIPPING POINT: ORLANDO Beans

$28.35 to $28.85

Dec. 21

Dec. 28

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

Emma Poole, 12, took this picture of a beautiful sky on Thanksgiving eve.

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.

A LITTLE TOO WARM

By Gary Cooper | Edited by Timothy E. Parker

ACROSS 1 Bacardi, e.g.

4 Thai currency 8 “So there you are!”

14 Nasal partitions 19 Certain Ivy Leaguer 20 Cupid’s counterpart 21 Kind of recording 22 Projectile for 20-Across 23 Raggedy doll 24 Greek salad cheese 25 Change genes 26 It may be organized 27 Chocolate source 29 Jimmies 31 “Thar ___ blows!”

32 Ad ___ 33 Quavery singing effect 35 “Relax, and that’s an order!”

37 Calm 40 Connive 41 Costner’s “Untouchables” role 42 Nuclear energy source 44 Marble used as a shooter 45 It controls the bending of the mast 49 “The Journey is the Destination” photojournalist 51 Back of the neck 52 “Your turn” 53 Mushroom part 55 “When I Need You” singer Leo 56 Humidor item 57 More impolite 59 Speak from a soapbox 61 Botanical swellings 63 Ninth-inning reliever, often 65 Makes less distinct 67 Stop working 70 It follows sunset, in poetry

71 75 77 79 80 82 85 87 88 91 93 95 96 97 98 100 101 102 106 107 109 111 115 116 117 119 120 122 124 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134

Conveyance with a basket Adam’s mate Break away ___ complaint (officially protest) Cleans with soap Acquire ivories Gorillalike Mooring sites Boorish sort Violin bow application “Cut it out!”

Big beer buy Little brook Light bulb units California city Food scrap Foolhardy Pillager’s take Chicken noodle, e.g.

Puts on the scales Ukrainian seaport Expressed in words Spring month Entertaining couple Polish “Peter” First president to marry while in office One of 150 in the Bible Shoot for (with “to”) Conceal Hot temper Book feature One with a requirement Aces, sometimes Cloak-and-dagger org.

Aggregate Tests one’s metal Hideous-looking Always, in poetry

DOWN 1 Do a double-take 2 Of a forearm bone 3 Chop finely

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

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 28 30 34 36 37 38 39 43 45 46 47 48 50 51 54 55 56 58 60 62 64 66 68 69

Dupes “The best things in life ___ free” Sticky issue Autocrat until 1917 Reproductive cell Unwelcome obligations Repeated machine gun sound Category Easily angered “A Death in the Family” writer Chief of a North American tribe Fielder’s goof Sticker Cruise in the movies Shock’s partner Current measures Author Fleming Land parcels On the ocean “Sanford and ___” Wine valley Vase-shaped jug Bullring hero “Use the ___, Luke” (“Star Wars” ine) Small eggs Constructed again San Francisco’s ___ Buena Island Soapmaker’s need Like some decrees French Sudan, today Certain Kosovo resident Forty winks Fix, as a pump Gang territory Cat call Harassed Small marine animal Fix, as leftovers “Be it ___ humble ...”

© 2013 Universal Uclick

72 73 74 76 78 81 83 84 86 88

Bright fish Luau souvenirs Endures Big Bertha’s birthplace PC keyboard key Wages received during an illness Plant-growing facilities Suffix that maximizes Vichy attraction Boast

89 90 92 94 97 99 101 103 104 105

Add to the staff Preludes to war, often ___ of Capri Winnie-the-___ Functioned as Husband’s common-law right, formerly Mother Goose forte Fish hawk Basket twigs Chinese “way”

108 110 112 113 114 116 118 120 121 123 125

Bothers a lot Ninnies It’s a piece of cake Supernatural Dismal, old-style Comedian Carvey Commandments pronoun After-school grp.

Actor Alastair Wife of President McKinley “Runaway” rocker Shannon

C RY P T O G R A M S 1 . G F U A R J G E B G L N G Q P X H H B E P G V S B L X R E D B Q FA R C Y X J . “ U X Q , B H B Q S X AU N B LT X V, C K H H D X J G B E H D B E P B Q E R H H R J G T X G E G Q D R M U R K AQ X Y M ,” D B Q L R K E Q X Y R A H RY V D B J .

2 . H E N C Z M V N C Z K Q N K G H I Y D H I M L Z F V H N I H I Y I N K F E Z LV K Y, S OV D E Z I H YVVZGCVZM VN PZYKI VEZ SYLLNNI YIM VEZ FPYKHIZV H QNOIM H F N O P M I ’ V K Z Z M G O L H F.

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