12.11.15 PCTO by Plant City Observer

Plant City Times &

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

TRIBUTE Whistle Stop owners’ daughter remembered. PAGE 3

FREE

FESTIVE FLOATS

REAL ESTATE

Plant City celebrates the holidays with Christmas Parade.

An equestrian property tops November sales.

PAGE 7

PAGE 9

MEMORIES FOR SALE by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

OUR TOWN ‘Tis the Season Make sure to visit PlantCityObserver.com to see a list of photo galleries from holiday happenings around Plant City. We have reporters at Santa breakfasts, holiday school plays, gift expos and more.

Win Christmas Lane tickets The holidays are a time to give, and Christmas Lane wants to spread the cheer to a family in need this season by giving away tickets to a night of lighted displays, Santa meet and greets, entertainment and dinner. If you know a family or are a family going through a hardship email Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen with a brief summary about your family. The deadline to enter to win will be Friday, Dec. 18. Winners will be notified before the Friday, Dec. 25 edition. In addition to Christmas Lane tickets, the winners will also receive a $100 Publix gift card. Christmas Lane takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. nightly through Sunday, Jan. 3, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Hall, 2508 W. Oak Ave.

Own a piece of history at estate sale Some items were owned by the Crum family in the 1880s. Plant City history buffs will be able to purchase furniture, decorative items and home goods dating back to the late 1800s at a local estate sale this weekend. From Friday, Dec. 11, to Sunday, Dec. 13, residents can stop by the estate sale, held at the historic home at 1404 S. Collins St. Hollie Clark, a descendant of the prominent Plant City Crum family, is selling most of the home’s furniture and

household goods. The home, which rests on about 8.5 acres, was first purchased by David Lovett Crum, a Civil War veteran, in 1881— long before local businesses began popping up on the other side of the road. The Crum family, who first moved to the United States from Holland in the 1750s, quickly became well-known throughout the area. David Lovett Crum’s son, David Rite Crum, carried mail from Tampa to Kissimmee for the

railroad while it was being built. In addition to David Rite Crum’s work for the railroad, the Crum family was known for being pioneers and cattlemen in the area. David Rite Crum’s nephews, Pete, Kenneth and Dwight “Goat” Crum lived next door, at 1304 Collins St. Clark still has a photo of the three nephews on horses. At that time, Goat Crum Emily Topper

SEE ESTATE SALE / PAGE 4

Jewelry dating back to the flapper is for sale.

LEGAL

SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Historic Downtown keeps ban on tattoo shops David Hudder is allowed to operate one in Plant City — outside the limits of Historic Downtown.

Church celebrates 170 years Emily Topper

LORD OF THE

“

LIGHTS

I want Nick Rogers’ Christmas display of lights covers two houses — with room to grow. to spread the wenty-year-old Nick holiday.” Rogers is passionate Rogers has always enjoyed about two things: putting up Christmas lights Christmas Disney and Christ- with his family but found his mas. inspiration through Christmas spirit. The Plant City native has light displays at Walt Disney found a way to combine his love World, especially the Osborne Christmas for the two in a computerized Family Spectacle of Dancing Christmas light show, complete Lights. The annual production should be with 26,000 lights, 50 strobe features 5 million lights dancing lights and a 10-foot tall Christ- to music. free. mas tree that dances to music. “I’m a crazy Disney fan,” Rog-

“

First United Methodist of Dover is celebrating its 170th anniversary at an event Sunday, Dec. 13. The celebration begins with a service at 11 a.m. After, there will be a covered dish meal in the social hall and fellowship until 2 p.m. The public is invited. The congregation began meeting on Christmas Eve in 1845. “In 1845, Central Florida was primarily frontier territory,” the Rev. Rodney Body said. Body said it is the oldest United Methodist church in Hillsborough County. The first location of the church was on Bethlehem Road, near the Bethlehem Cemetery. It was later moved to its present location on Moores Lake Road. The current congregation is small but active. Each first Saturday, from the months of October to March, is a family dinner the church opens to the public for $8 a plate. The Dover church also has an Alcoholics Anonymous chapter that meets at the church every Thursday and is the voting precinct for the Dover area. Contact Body at (813) 719-0320 for more information.

Nick Rogers

The lights are spread over two houses on Bella Garden Lane off Sparkman Road. He has opened the display to visitors until Sunday, Jan. 3. Rogers first started the show, named the Lights of Winter after the former EPCOT production, three years ago. “I love Christmas,” Rogers said. “Christmas is my favorite

ers said. Once he began working at Disney in merchandise, he decided it was finally time to do a large production of his own. Of course, Rogers’ show wouldn’t be complete without a few tributes to his favorite theme park — guests who come to see the

A Disney fan and employee, Nick Rogers has placed 11 “hidden Mickeys” throughout the display as a challenge for visitors to spot.

IF YOU GO Lights of Winter When: 6 to 10 p.m., weekdays; 6 to 11 p.m, Fridays and Saturdays; through Sunday, Jan. 3 Where: 3212 and 3218 Bella Garden Lane, Plant City; attendees can park on the gravel driveway to avoid blocking traffic on Sparkman Road. Cost: Free

SEE LIGHTS / PAGE 4

SEE TATTOO / PAGE 4

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

A tattoo shop ban in Historic Downtown is constitutional, a federal judge has decided. David Hudder, owner of Dixie Station Tattoo on Baker Street, wanted to open a tattoo shop on the first floor of 109 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. He resides on the second floor. At the time of Hudder’s request, a zoning ordinance against tattoo shops in Historic Downtown already existed. Hudder took the City of Plant City to court on the grounds of the ban being unconstitutional and limiting his First Amendment rights, but retired U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Kovachevich sided with the city. Though tattooing is a form of free speech, it may be limited to time, place and manner restrictions. Hudder’s plan for a tattoo shop was found to be inconsistent with the City of Plant City’s vision for a familyoriented downtown. The court determined that the ruling was not in violation of Hudder’s First Amendment rights, because he is provided with other locations to own and operate a tattoo shop within the city limits. “Eighty-six percent of commercially-owned property is available,” Tom Scarritt, the lawyer who represented the City of Plant City in the case, said. Scarritt is a lawyer for the Tampa-based Scarritt Law Group. “The city was pleased with the result. We felt it was a reasonable and fair ordinance.” Besides providing an alter-

Vol. 3, No. 19 | One section Crossword....................15

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

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

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

PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

LIGHTS / PAGE 1

Emily Topper

David Hudder renovated the building in Historic Downtown to become a tattoo shop and living quarters.

TATTOO / PAGE 1 native location for the business, time, place and manner restrictions are constitutional when they are narrowly tailored. The city argued that tattoo establishments â&#x20AC;&#x153;do not support the regular needs of residents, appeal to narrow clientele, are not family-oriented businesses and detract from a ... downtown environment.â&#x20AC;? The majority of downtown shops fit the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision, including antique shops, consignment shops, restaurants and a coffee shop. In his case, Hudder also argued that the city was treating other businesses, specifically art galleries and printing companies, differently than his proposed tattoo shop. However, Scarritt argued that there is a huge difference between tattoo shops and the companies Hudder mentioned, because tattoo parlors are regulated by the state. â&#x20AC;&#x153;None of that applies to printing companies,â&#x20AC;? Scarritt said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And the court agreed.â&#x20AC;? After speaking with Hudderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lawyer, Jeffrey Blumenauer, Scarritt was told that Hudder would likely not appeal the federal decision. It has not been determined yet if Hudder will appeal to a state judge. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.

Lights of Winter can find 11 hidden Mickeys combined on both houses. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not enough for Rogers to just decorate both houses. All year long, he has been working on computerizing the LED light show to fit over 10 Christmas songs, including Christian and contemporary songs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everythingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s completely programmed by me,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Each tenth of a second is a light switch. They are programmed differently to each song. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Christian so we try to pick Christian songs, but we also throw ones in there that are danceable.â&#x20AC;?

BETTER AND BRIGHTER

When Rogers first began doing the computerized light show, he had 4,750 lights on his parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; home. When the family moved down the road, Rogers was able to grow to 10,000 lights. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is my parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dream house,â&#x20AC;? Rogers said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They considered where to place

outlets (for the lights).â&#x20AC;? When the family moved and Rogersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; next door neighbor, Ryan Richter, saw the light display, he asked Rogers to decorate his house as well. Located off of a gravel driveway, guests are able to walk between both houses with little to no traffic. By next year, Rogers hopes to have up to 50,000 lights on both houses. Each year, he tries different ideas to make the light show better and brighter than the year before. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I try to make them spin around the house,â&#x20AC;? Rogers said. Despite the time and money that Rogers has put into the show â&#x20AC;&#x201D; it took him three weeks to put the lights up on both houses â&#x20AC;&#x201D; he isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t looking to make money off of his show. The show is free for everyone who wants to enjoy it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to spread the Christmas spirit,â&#x20AC;? Rogers said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas should be free.â&#x20AC;? As the show grows each year, Rogers hopes that his production will attract more

In three years Nick Rogersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Christmas light display on two homes has grown from 4,750 lights to 26,000 lights. Rogers has decorated his home on Bella Garden Lane, as well as his neighborâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home, below.

and more guests. The first year, he was able to count the number of cars at the show on one hand. This year, he said, the interest is growing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People have said it will be a family tradition,â&#x20AC;? Rogers said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I get compliments on strobes. They love it.â&#x20AC;? Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.

ESTATE SALE / PAGE 1 was thought to be the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best horse rider. The nephewsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; home has since been converted to Quality Furniture Consignment, but the family never sold the property at 1404 S. Collins St. This weekend, Clark will be selling furniture that she said has been in the home since it was purchased in the early 1880s. Many of Clarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ancestors were born in the front room of the house, including her father. All of the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wakes and funerals were held in the adjoining room. Though Clark is hosting the estate sale this weekend, she has yet to put the home on the market, however, the family will talk to interested buyers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not really ready to list it,â&#x20AC;? Clark said.

ABOUT THE SALE

The company hired to run

NEW, USED AND ABUSED!

Left: The home at 1404 S. Collins St. will be hosting an estate sale this weekend. Below: An old childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s toy stove will be for sale.

the sale is Alexander Julius Estate Sales & Appraisals, a business that has been in the same family for three generations. Alexander Julius Jr., also known as AJ, is the businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; current owner. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We work as a family and treat each other as family,â&#x20AC;?

Julius said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every sale has different items. Not a single thing has the same items.â&#x20AC;? Employee Bob Pierce works with a team to research the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s antiques, signs, swords and other sale items. The items are affordable, Pierce said.

a collection of coffee grinders, chocolate molds, compact purses and beaded jewelry that dates back to the flapper era, and period furniture, including a Heywood Wakefield table with paper labels, a chair that belonged to Ella Rosa Crum and a hand-carved drawerfront secretary desk, which was the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first piece of furniture. The desk still has its original mirror. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s everything from the 1800s to modern time,â&#x20AC;? Pierce said. The company is expecting between 1,000 and 1,500 people to come to the estate sale over the four-day period. There is no preview sale. For those who arrive to the sale early, they can fill out a sign-in sheet to hold their spot in line. The sale will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;If somebody wants to buy a piece of furniture, now is the their only opportunity, after 100 years, to buy a piece of history,â&#x20AC;? Pierce said. Pierce has enjoyed finding pieces that originally belonged to the family. Items for Contact Emily Topper at etopsale include German steins, per@plantcityobserver.com.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

COMMUNITYCALENDAR FRIDAY, DEC. 11 Believe! A Christmas Concert — takes place from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at Shiloh Baptist Church, 905 W. Terrace Drive. The advance cost is $10 for adults; $8 for seniors and children. At-the-door the cost is $15. (813) 754-7445. Christmas Lane — takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. nightly through Sunday, Jan. 3, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Hall, 2508 W. Oak Ave. The cost is $5, ages 13 and older; $2, ages 4 to 12. Christmas Trail — takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11 to Sunday, Dec. 13; and Friday, Dec. 18, to Wednesday Dec. 23, at 2837 S. Frontage Road. Enjoy strolling through outdoor lights, appearances by Santa and candy giveaways. ZachGlaros@ TheChristmasTrail.com. Santa and the Red Caboose — takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, 102 N. Palmer St. Drop off toys for donation to the Plant City Police Department toy drive, and take pictures with Santa. (813) 719-6989. Wilson Winter Chorus Concert — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at Plant City High School, 1 Raider Place.

BEST BET Florida Opry Featuring Blind Pianist Jonathan Davis — takes place at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins St. Kenzie Wheeler and Randy Scott will also perform. Tickets are $12 for adults; $5 for students. Email info@ TheFloridaOpry.com or visit TheFloridaOpry.org. (813) 757-9226. (813) 757-9307.

SATURDAY, DEC. 12 Holiday Cookie Exchange — takes place from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302

P R O U D L Y

McLendon St. For a complete list of rules and a recipe card, stop by the information desk. Register by calling (813) 7579215. Plant City High School Raider Regiment Marching Band Golf Tournament — takes place beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at Quail Hollow Golf Course, 6225 Old Pasco Road, Wesley Chapel. The cost is $75 per player. Sponsorship opportunities available. Funds raised will help offset the cost of the end of year trip. For more information, contact PCHS BPA President Beth Odom at (813) 300-3707 or PCHSRaiderRegiment@gmail. com. Plant City’s First Baptist Church Christmas Program — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12; and 2 to 3:30 p.m. and 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at Plant City’s First Baptist Church’s woship center, 503 N. Palmer St. (813) 752-4104.

SUNDAY DEC. 13 At Home for the Holidays — takes place from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, throughout Plant City. Tour four beautifully decorated homes during the holiday season. Dessert served at Photo Archives and History

S E R V I N G

Like a family, we offer... • Social Time • Light Housekeeping

T H E

Center. By invitation only. Call for an invitation if you are not on the list. (813) 927-9595. Plant City Church of God Christmas Program — takes place beginning at 10:15 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at Plant City Church of God, 2103 Mud Lake Road. (813) 752-4591.

MONDAY, DEC. 14 Family Movie Matinee — takes place beginning at 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Join in for a fun, free family movie projected on our big screen. The Grinch is his usually grumpy self around the holidays and hatches a plan to steal Christmas from the residents of Whoville. Children are welcome to bring a pillow or blanket to lie on. This movie is rated PG. For more information about the movie, please call the Bruton Memorial Library at (813) 757-9215. Relay for Life Holiday Party — takes place beginning at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14, at Plant City’s First Bapitst Church, 503 N. Palmer St. Enjoy a potluck holiday dessert feast, Christmas carols, visit from Santa and stocking challenge. Bring paper goods to donate to the Hope Lodge. Survivors, caregivers, captains, teams and anyone

G R E A T E R

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 Monday. interested in Relay is invited to attend. RSVP to Allison at (813) 319-5910.

TUESDAY DEC. 15 Lincoln Elementary Winter Concert — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at Lincoln Elementary Magnet School, 1207 E. Renfro St. (813) 757-9329. Marshall Middle School Winter Concert — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at Marshall Middle School, 18 S. Maryland Ave. The concert will feature the Wind Ensemble (advanced band), Symphonic Band (intermediate band), Big Band from Dragonland (jazz band), Dragon Drums (drumline), as well as the sixth-grade Master Musicians. Tomlin Middle School Winter Band Concert — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at Tomlin Middle School, 501 N. Woodrow Wilson St. (813) 757-9400. Turkey Creek Middle School Winter Concert — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at Turkey Creek Middle School, 5005 S. Turkey Creek Road. (813) 757-9442.

THURSDAY, DEC. 17 Knights Elementary Winter

P L A N T

C I T Y

Family Night — takes place beginning at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17. Enjoy a concert performance, food and holidaythemed activites. For Knights students and their families only. (813) 757-9333. Say it with Music — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at First United Methodist Church of Brandon, 115 Knights Ave. The Christmas concert is put on by the Eastern Hillsborough County Community Band. A $5 donation is suggested at the door. Reservations are not required. Call (813) 569-1771, or email info@ehcb. org. Visit ehcb.org for more information. Tomlin Middle School Winter Orchestra Concert — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at Tomlin Middle School, 501 N. Woodrow Wilson St. (813) 757-9400.

SATURDAY, DEC. 19 Cookies and Milk with Santa — takes place from 2 to 4 p.m Saturday, Dec. 19, at Stone Ledge Manor, 12006 McIntosh Road. There will be raffle baskets, picutres with Santa and lots of cookies. Bring a nonperishable food item for the United Food Bank of Plant City, and get a free raffle ticket. (813) 9867900.

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PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

SENT FROM ABOVE by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Meeting the Good Samaritan Carole Shepherd meets the man who saved her life. Editor’s note: On Friday, Nov. 20, the Plant City Times & Observer ran a story about a mystery man who saved Carole Shepherd’s life with CPR. Carole Shepherd suffered cardiac arrest while walking her dogs with her husband. The Shepherds began a search for the man, who walked away with his dog after EMS arrived. On Dec. 4, they found him.

he’s not breathing. Jeff Phillips was walking on Thomas Street when he heard Tom Shepherd’s voice quavering on the phone. Tom Shepherd’s wife, Carole, was sprawled on the ground behind Bruton Memorial Library, across the street from Phillips. It was 9:20 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 15. No one else was around. Carole Shepherd, who had been taking her usual morning walk moments earlier, was dying. Twenty minutes prior, Jeff Phillips, a United States Army veteran, had reached his North Daniels Street home after finishing the night shift at Tampa International Airport. In anticipation of soccer season, he changed into jogging clothes and headed out the door with his dog, Jay Paul. There was no set route. Jay Paul always led the way. Less than three minutes later, Jeff Phillips turned the corner onto Thomas Street and saw the Shepherds. She’s not breathing. “That’s when instinct kicked in,” Jeff Phillips said. Jeff Phillips ran to them and tied Jay Paul to a tree. Kneeling down, he began performing CPR compressions. One. Two. Three. He had been given CPR training at work — training he never thought he would use. Four. Five. Six. Pop. Had he broken one of Carole Shepherd’s ribs? He kept going. “Her lips were purple,” Jeff Phillips said. “She looked dead.”

Seven. Eight. Nine. Jay Paul, still tied to a tree, was barking. Ten. Eleven. Twelve. Carole Shepherd gagged. Paramedics arrived. Jeff Phillips stood and turned to Tom Shepherd. “Good luck, Mr. Shepherd.” He untied Jay Paul from the tree and went home. When his wife, Felicia Phillips, unlocked the door, Jeff Phillips told her what happened. At first, she thought he was kidding. “He’s a jokester,” Felicia Phillips said. “And sometimes, they’re not appropriate.” But her husband’s face was flushed. The Phillips put Jay Paul in the house and rushed back toward Thomas Street, where they saw the ambulance pulling away. “And that’s the last I’ve seen of the ambulance,” Jeff Phillips said. “I wanted to call the hospital, but I was worried I wouldn’t get any information.” For the moment, the excitement was over for the Phillips. But for Tom Shepherd, the nightmare was just beginning.

CAROLE, STAY WITH US

When Tom Shepherd arrived at South Florida Baptist Hospital, Carole Shepherd had already been hooked to life support. A social worker began to tell him how to cope with his grief. Doctors told him that his wife wouldn’t survive and that, if she did, she would have brain damage. Doctors decided that Carole Shepherd had to be airlifted to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa. As the days passed, Carole Shepherd remained unconscious. Jeff Phillips, who hadn’t seen

Felicia and Jeff Phillips with their dog, Jay Paul, and Tom and Carole Shepherd. Carole Shepherd suffered a sudden cardiac arrest, and was saved by Jeff Phillips’ CPR. Emily Topper

or heard from the Shepherds, began looking for them. He checked obituaries for three weeks but found nothing. Then, Carole Shepherd awoke. Doctors and nurses from all floors of the hospital walked into her room to witness what the hospital had deemed a miracle. Carole Shepherd’s doctor told her how grim her situation had been. The last time he had seen her, she had been dead. The story of Jeff Phillips — at that time nicknamed the good samaritan by the Shepherd family — spread. As she recovered in her hospital bed, Carole Shepherd became determined to find the man who saved her life. One week ago, she did.

REUNITED

It was Friday, Nov. 20, when Jeff Phillips picked up a copy of the Plant City Times & Observer. The picture on the front cover caught his attention. There, holding a dog and

smiling next to her husband, was Carole Shepherd. “He made this loud noise,” Felicia Phillips recalled. “I ignored it at first.” Jeff Phillips dashed into the living room and showed his wife the paper. Their surprise continued when they realized what the story was about: the search for the good samaritan, for Jeff Phillips. “I couldn’t believe that (they) had wanted to find him,” Felicia Phillips said. “I had to read it like 10 times that night.” After a month of searching, the Shepherds were finally reunited with the Phillips Friday, Dec. 4, at Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park. The Phillips brought Jeff Phillips’ mom, Susan, and grandparents, Alice and Bob Brady. Jay Paul, of course, completed the pack. The Shepherds gave Jay Paul a bag of toys, and the families sat face to face at a picnic bench to talk about Carole Shepherd’s miracle. “Everybody at St. Joseph’s considers you a hero,” Carole

GET CERTIFIED The Shepherds and Phillips families hope that more people will become CPR certified, as it was Jeff Phillips’ CPR training that ultimately saved Carole Shepherd’s life. Certifications are offered throughout the year. AMERICAN RED CROSS What: Adult and Pediatric First Aid/ CPR/AED Where: 3301 W. Main St., Tampa, 33607 When: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 27 Cost: $110 Other dates: At RedCross.org

Shepherd told Jeff Phillips. “They all consider you a hero. They say, ‘This man saved your life.’”

“It makes us cry when we think about it,” Felicia Phillips said. “We’re hoping we can stay in touch with them forever.” The families were finally able to put their stories together: Carole Shepherd’s hospital stay, Jeff Phillips’ tales of scanning obituaries, the route that Jay Paul wanted to take. “I’m not a dog whisperer, but I really believe dogs can sense when people are in trouble,” Carole Shepherd said. And, finally, the ultimate reality: without Jeff Phillips’ CPR, Carole Shepherd wouldn’t have lived to meet the man who saved her life. “We’re connected, we are,” Carole Shepherd said. “Without Jeff being in my path that day, I would not be able to say that. “You truly are the Good Samaritan.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.

TRIBUTE by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

IS BREAST BEST by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Cafe owners supported after daughter’s death

Mom’s post of baby breastfeeding goes viral

Sarah Lofstrom, 24, lived in Plant City and had two sons.

Ashley Kaidel breastfed her son uncovered in public.

Jerry and Marti Lostrom, their two grandkids and their son, Jeremy, gathered around Valerie DeArmond on the steps of Plant City’s First Bapitst Church Saturday, Dec. 5. DeArmond clutched a pink box. When she lifted the lid, butterflies burst forth and fluttered around the family. One landed on Marti Lofstrom’s head and didn’t fly away until it was time for her to go inside. Jerry and Marti Lofstrom, owners of the Whistle Stop Cafe in downtown Plant City, were surrounded by friends, loved ones, customers and residents as they celebrated the life of their daughter, Sarah Loftsrom. The 24-year-old and mother of two was hit by a car in Bradenton Friday, Nov. 27, as she was crossing Manatee Avenue West. She died Saturday, Nov. 28. She loved butterflies. It gave DeArmond the idea to buy butterflies for her celebration of life service. DeArmond also helped regular Whistle Stop customers fill out cards the morning of Monday, Dec. 1, to put on the front doors of the restaurant. “(Sarah) was like an Energizer bunny,” DeArmond said. “We were just like family.” DeArmond owns Valerie’s Attic, across the street from Whistle Stop. It opened three years ago. During Sarah Lofstrom’s shifts at her parent’s restaurant, she would fre-

If you hadn’t heard of Zephyrhills mother Ashley Kaidel before last week, you probably have by now. On Tuesday, Nov. 24, Kaidel was eating at Fred’s Market in Plant City when she began breastfeeding her 5-monthold son, Phoenix. As she fed Phoenix, Kaidel, 24, a Plant City native, said that she saw a woman give her a dirty look before leaving the restaurant. That night, Kaidel posted on social media a photo of herself breastfeeding her son at Fred’s Market. In her post, Kaidel said that women should not have to feel pressure to cover up while feeding their babies. “There is nothing weird about this,” Kaidel wrote in her post. “There’s no difference in me feeding my baby with my breast than you feeding yourself with a spoon.” When she woke the next morning, the photo had thousands of shares. Fred’s Market would not comment if employees saw the women who Kaidel said gave her a dirty look. Regardless, the photo has gone viral. It has received over 413,000 Facebook likes and 124,000 shares. Breastfeeding etiquette is a hot topic throughout the United States, as 76.5% of mothers have breastfed their child at least once in their lifetime, according to the CDC. Kaidel’s photo sparked the controversy even brighter as People, The Huffington Post,

Facebook

Sarah Lofstrom, 24, was trying to cross Manatee Avenue in Bradenton when she was hit by a car. At left, cards of sympathy left by customers of the Whistle Stop Cafe. quently stop in the store to talk to DeArmond, and to shop for lipsticks and shirts. Sarah Lofstrom’s sons, Masen and Kasen, called DeArmond their “friend Valerie.” “She was a good mom,” DeArmond said, noting that the boys were often at the cafe with their mom and grandparents. “They are such a sweet family. She really was like a butterfly. She loved bright colors. She flitted everywhere.” Lofstrom family friend Betsy Burgos knew Sarah Lofstrom for years and vividly remembers her quinceañera. “I’m going to miss her so much,” Burgos said. “She was such a beautiful girl.” Burgos is proud of the support that the community has offered the Lofstrom family. “Everyone has come to-

gether,” Burgos said. “Everyone’s just been supportive. We’re just here for the mom and dad and the family.” DeArmond and other Plant City residents have helped to start a donation for the Lofstrom family. DeArmond said the money can be put toward a fund that has been set up for Sarah Lofstrom’s children or for any immediate needs that the Lofstrom family has. To donate to Sarah Lofstrom’s sons, checks can be made out to Kasen Lofstrom and mailed to Railroad & Industrial Federal Credit Union, 1701 W. Baker St., Plant City FL 33563. Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen contributed to this report. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.

Ashley Kaidel and her son Phoenix.

State Law 383.015 (1) A mother may breastfeed her baby in any location, public or private, where the mother is otherwise authorized to be, irrespective of whether the nipple of the mother’s breast is uncovered during or incidental to the breastfeeding. The Daily Mail and parenting sites picked it up. But not everyone agrees with Kaidel. Stephanie Sanchez, who said she has known Kaidel for six years, is also a mom. Sanchez both breastfeeds and gives formula to her 3-monthold daughter. Though she believes each mother should be able to make their own choice, Sanchez said that Kaidel’s display — which involved taking her breast out of her shirt to feed Phoenix uncovered —

James Borchuck

was over the top. “There’s nothing wrong with breastfeeding,” Sanchez said. “But you shouldn’t have to do it in a way that makes everybody feel uncomfortable.” Sanchez brings along a light cover if she takes her daughter to a public place. Kaidel’s supporters have said a cover can be hot for the baby, and going to a private place such as the bathroom or car is unsanitary and uncomfortable. Breastfeeding in a public place is protected under Florida law. “It’s all about normalizing (breastfeeding),” she said in a Tampa Bay Times interview Friday. “My breasts were designed to feed a baby before they were sexualized by America. If you don’t like it, there are four cardinal directions, you can look in a different one.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

LIGHTS / PAGE 1

Emily Topper

David Hudder renovated the building in Historic Downtown to become a tattoo shop and living quarters.

BETTER AND BRIGHTER

ABOUT THE SALE

The company hired to run

NEW, USED AND ABUSED!

Left: The home at 1404 S. Collins St. will be hosting an estate sale this weekend. Below: An old childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s toy stove will be for sale.

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PLANT CITY TIME & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

COPS

Around

TOWN

Reporters from the Plant City Times & Observer hit the streets of Plant City to ask residents a little about themselves. Will we spot you around town next?

NOV. 29 SUBWAY SNEAK

4600 block of West Highway 574. Theft. Officer responded to a complaint of two Subway sandwiches, valued together at $16, being stolen from the complainant.

NOV. 27 DEFLATING THE MOOD

700 block of North Mobley Street. Criminal mischief. Officer responded to a residence following a report of criminal mischief. Complainant stated that three of the four tires on his 2009 Toyota SUV had been slashed, despite the fact that he had no disputes with anyone at the time. Complainant didn’t provide any suspects, declined further investigation and signed a waiver of prosecution.

We asked:

Are you a cat or a dog person? Austin Kelley, 19 Dogs, because they won’t bite you.

Kayla Pell, 20 I’m a dog person. They are more playful and have more of a personality.

NOV. 28 BREAKING, NOT ENTERING

Kelsey Browning, 19 I like cats, because they like to snuggle but they’re also sassy. .

Nicole Barreto, 26 I love dogs. I’m a dog person.

CORNER

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

Amanda Mackey, 25 I’m more of a dog person, because they’re outgoing, and you can take them out and do stuff.

1400 block of East Tennessee Street. Criminal mischief. Officer responded to a residence following a report of criminal mischief. Complainant stated that unknown suspect(s) shattered the side window of her 1998 Ford minivan, but nothing was reported stolen from the vehicle.

Yoshiee Pinzon, 24 I’m a dog person, because cats are ferocious. They’ll scratch you.

glary. Complainant stated that unknown suspect(s) had stolen a 36-inch Stihl chainsaw, a 16-inch Stihl chainsaw, a 20-inch Stihl chainsaw and a Stihl pole chainsaw. The saws are valued together at $3,246.

CLEAR SHOT

4700 block of Sydney Road. Business burglary. Another business reported that unknown suspect(s) entered its fenced compound and stole two Stihl chainsaws and two Stihl concrete saws, as well as the tailgate of a 2009 Ford F-250 truck.

2000 block of South Frontage Road. Vehicle burglary. Officer responded to a business in reference to a report of vehicle burglary. Complainant stated that unknown suspect(s) smashed the driver’s side window of his 2013 Dodge Ram truck, and then stole guns and money. Complainant was missing a .22 caliber Remington pump rifle, a camouflaged Mossberg shotgun and a .40 caliber FNS pistol. The guns were valued together at $1,870, and the complainant also reported that $58 was stolen from the center console.

REPEAT

400 block of North Thomas Street. Criminal mischief. Another officer met with another complainant, who also stated that unknown suspect(s) shattered the driver’s side window of his 2005 Chevrolet Uplander van overnight.

CUTESTCRITTER

report of graffiti vandalism. Complainant stated that he had discovered “Sur13” gang graffiti sprayed on a section of his fence. Complainant added that the damage was not permanent, and that he did not wish to follow up with an investigation.

NOV. 30

NOV. 29

BRAND AMBASSADOR

2600 block of Airport Road. Business burglary. Officer responded to a business in reference to a reported bur-

GANGLAND

1700 block of North Lime Street. Criminal mischief. Officer responded to a

TAILGATING

DEC. 2 CANDID CAMERA

2500 block of Thonotosassa Road. Information report. Officer responded to a complainant at PCPD, who stated that an unknown male was videotaping her daughter while the two were grocery shopping. Complainant stated that she believed the man followed them home, and provided a tag number. There was not determined to be any crimes, but an information report was filed for documentation.

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

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Royal Fun for Everyone! March 3 –13, 2016 • Plant City, FL Artists Appearing on the

his is Paque, and he is the cutest critter because he is nice to everyone he meets. For a 10-year-old dog, he is laid back, and he enjoys spending his days relaxing. “He has been with us for most of our lives, and we feel like it is our responsibility as owners to show to everyone his cuteness,” owner Carol Boxtha said. Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center have partnered to present a weekly Cutest Critter Contest. Entering is

Soundstage:

simple: Just submit a highresolution photo (200 dpi or better) and a sentence or two about why your pet is the cutest. Include your name and contact information. Winners will be showcased in the Plant City Times & Observer and will receive a free bag of dental chews to be picked up at Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center. Submit your entries to Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@ plantcityobserver.com; subject line: Cutest Critter.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

SHOPAHOLICS by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

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Members of the Lincoln Elementary School chorus performed.

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1736 HIGHLAND PARK DR.: This great lake front home with beautiful views of Lake Easy has 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths. It has a large formal living room with vaulted wood ceilings that overlook the lake. Spacious kitchen and bar, that opens to dining and living room area plus an inside utility with built in desk and pantry. Large oversized garage with a 1/2 bath and washer/dryer hookup. Plus, a beautifully landscaped private front yard. Lake Easy is a great lake for water sports, fishing and swimming.

$299,000 10702 W. BEACH PARKWAY: A great view of Lake Rosalie comes with this Lakefront 3 bedroom, 2 bath, Tri-level home. Includes a loft area, studio apartment, and a large workshop. Spiral staircase to loft overlooks living room and the lake. With 82.5 ft. of frontage on the lake, it’s great for fishing and boating. A great retreat or gathering spot!! $344,900

3245 CITRUS CT.: This beautifully remodeled, move-in ready 2 bedroom 2 bath home is located on the canal into Lake Rosalie. Interior has formal living room, large family room overlooking the lake and imported travertine tiled floors. Back screened patio overlooks the dock, canal and lake. $219,000

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We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements. To contact us, send your information via: Email: Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com. Mail: The Plant City Observer, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A, Plant City, FL 33563

CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Fridays. It provides free home delivery to several neighborhoods in Plant City. The Plant City Times & Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

Scott Toler is a licensed mental health counselor living in Plant City. He can be reached at etoler25@tampabay.rr.com.

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involved with letting go of the past event. If this pattern repeats itself often enough, the person may run out of room to store these objects of attachment. In a conversation I once had with someone, I was asked how much of a chance there was for another person to change in a certain way. It occurs to me now, as I reflect on that question, that there are times we need to grieve and let go of conceptions that we have about what people and life are supposed to be. This could restore equilibrium to an emotional state overloaded with expectations. The parties and gatherings that we will attend through the coming weeks may bring new friends or may bring memories of a person you miss. Please give yourself permission to do any grieving that you feel you need to do. Heightened appreciation for people with you now and for love of life are sure to follow.

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Grieving losses in life is develop in renewed ways. something we face sooner or The times we have known later. The loss can involve a are irreplaceable, but the person, a situation or even a creative process of life gives way of life. No matter us times to enjoy that what form the loss are different, not the takes, we are faced same. with saying goodbye. If you have lost an Holiday time can important person in concentrate grief beyour life, it helps to cause we often have name the qualities memories associated that they had that you with the time of year appreciated. Speakwhen friends and ing with other people SCOTT family gather. concerning what the TOLER Some people may person meant is also feel pressured to beneficial. Writing a project happiness or joy in personal eulogy can aid in celebration of the season letting go of someone that even if they have experienced you have lost. a significant loss in life. Moving from one place to If someone you love has another can trigger a grief redied, it is better to be gentle sponse over the former place with yourself in allowing of residence and the people emotions like sadness to be known there. Thus, extending felt. a welcome to someone who These feelings will never has just arrived in your area displace the powerful hope can become a meaningful and reassuring comfort gesture. that this time of year brings Discovering what we need to many people. Putting to learn becomes the basis any necessary grieving on for keeping a balanced perstandby tends to make it spective during these times. more difficult. People sometimes keep obAttempting to recreate a jects that represent a signifipast time of life in the prescant event in life. ent moment can remind They become attached to us that we need to let the the object because they have present moment flourish and not acknowledged the grief

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Plant City residents started their holiday shopping early Tuesday, Dec. 1. The 2015 Business Expo and Holiday Showcase was held at the Trinkle Center on the Hillsborough Community College campus and featured local vendors and businesses. In addition to different booths, attendees enjoyed performances by Lincoln Elementary chorus and Next Radical Generation.

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Plant City Times &

Observer

Publisher / Karen Berry, kdberry@inthefieldmagazine.com Managing Editor / Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Sports Editor / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer / Emily Topper, etopper@PlantCityObserver.com Design Editor / Terry Chapman, tchapman@yourobserver.com Circulation/Office Manager / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

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

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

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

PARADE DAY by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

Here comes Santa Claus C hildren chanted, “Santa, Santa,” while pressed against the fenced barriers of Collins and Reynolds streets during Plant City’s annual Christmas Parade Friday, Dec. 4. Spectators were able to see a fire engine, the Grinch, sled dogs, Rudolph and lighted floats during the almost two-hour parade. Santa made an appearance on the last float.

Parade Winners Best Overall: Samoyed Fanciers Best Church Unit: St. Clement Catholic Church Best Marching Unit: Strawberry Crest High School Band Best School Unit: Marshall Middle School Gentlemen’s Quest An award presentation will be held for the winners at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14, at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. Photos by Amber Jurgensen

The Lions Club had its mascot walking the route.

Above: Plant City High School’s marching band was one of many to play. Right: Rudolph made an appearance.

Floats were decorated with loads of lights.

Children waited until the end of the parade for Santa. The Plant City Dolphins cheer squad had a lot to be happy about.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

FLIP A SWITCH by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

The holiday season is on

Following music and food, the lights lit up McCall Park and the outside of the Robert W. Willaford Train Museum just after 7:30 p.m.

A little bit of rain didn’t stop Plant City residents from gathering in Historic Downtown Thursday, Dec. 3, for the annual Lights of Love ceremony. Attendees enjoyed snacks, carolers and pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus before the Christmas tree and light displays were lit in McCall Park. The event kicks off the holiday season in Plant City and is a fundraiser for the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation.

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Christmas is a big deal in Plant City, but it wouldn’t be the same without two of its bigger holiday events. Christmas in the Park and the Santa Sled Festival will be back in 2015 — both on Saturday, Dec. 19. These events give local families in need an opportunity to get toys, clothes and meals in time for Christmas, and it gives everybody something fun to do on a Saturday. This will be the 19th year that the City of Plant City has hosted Christmas in the Park. The event will be held at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Pre-registered families can get extra benefits, such as free toys for children ages 5 to 10 and entries in a raffle for a bicycle. Everyone who attends will be able to get a free meal, however. The playground will be open for the kids, who will also get to go wild on a bounce house. For additional information regarding the event visit PlantCityGov.com/628/ Christmas-In-The-Park or call MLK Rec Center supervisor Lillie Brown at (813) 757-9195.

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Meanwhile, the Plant City Black Heritage Festival and Des’Aimes Social Club will be hosting another edition of the annual Santa Sled Festival at Samuel W. Cooper Park. The groups said that they plan to help over 200 families, but the impact has been greater: in 2014 the event helped a record 487 children, ages 3 to 10, get toys for Christmas. This year’s event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and parents who pre-registered their children will be able to get them toys and clothes for

Sharon Moody helped organize the Santa Sled Festival. the holiday. The parents themselves also stand to benefit from the groups’ generosity, as they will also be donating turkeys and other groceries to needy families. Last year, the groups were also able to provide school supplies. While at the park, there will be opportunities for kids to take pictures with Santa Claus, as well as horseback riding activities. The park is located at 900 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Food and drinks will be served at the park. For additional information, contact Sharon Moody at (813) 453-7134 or Dorothy Smith at (813) 754-3141. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

Justin Kline

IF YOU GO CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19 Where: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Info: visit PlantCityGov. com/628/Christmas-In-ThePark or call MLK Rec Center supervisor Lillie Brown at (813) 757-9195. SANTA SLED FESTIVAL When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19 Where: Samuel W. Cooper Park, 900 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Info: Sharon Moody at (813) 453-7134 or Dorothy Smith at (813) 754-3141

PLANT CITY TIME & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

REAL ESTATE by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Equestrian estate tops November sales half baths and 2,954 square feet of living area on 0.43 acres. The price per square foot is $101.22.

The home at 5319 Cedarwood Manor Drive sold Nov. 13, for $900,000. Built in 1989, it has six bedrooms, four and one half baths and 6,177 square feet of living area on 16.52 acres. The price per square foot is $145.70.

The home at 2826 Hammock Drive sold Nov. 4, for $255,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,156 square feet of living area on 0.27 acres. The price per square foot is $118.27.

Alexander Woods

The home at 245 Alexander Woods Drive sold Nov. 2, for $108,000. Built in 2015, it has two bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,466 square feet of living area on 0.05 acres. The price per square foot is $73.67.

The home at 4114 Longfellow Drive sold Nov. 6, for $196,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,818 square feet of living area on 0.25 acres. The price per square foot is $107.81.

Appling Woods

The home at 5410 Thonotosassa Road sold Nov. 3, for $49,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1976, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,464 square feet of living area on 1 acre. The price per square foot is $34.08.

Blain Acres

The home at 1009 Barbour Drive sold Nov. 5, for $99,900. Built in 1961, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,276 square feet of living area on 0.19 acres. The price per square foot is $78.29.

Cedarwood

Country Hills

The home at 204 Abigail Road sold Nov. 13, for $146,500. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,477 square feet of living area on 0.21 acres. The price per square foot is $99.19. The home at 4722 S. Dawnmeadow Court sold Nov. 2, for $147,900. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,425 square feet of living area on 0.14 acres. The price per square foot is $103.79. The home at 520 Lindsay Anne Court sold Nov. 20, for $96,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,285 square feet of living area on 0.10 acres. The price per square foot is $74.71.

Dumont

The home at 803 Turtle River Court sold Nov. 17, for $318,500. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,816 square feet of living area on 1.05 acres. The price per square foot is $113.10.

Eastridge

Emily Topper

The home at 5319 Cedarwood Manor Drive sold Nov. 13, for $900,000. The property is over 16 acres and includes a nine-stall show barn, separately fenced pastures and a show ring.

NOVEMBER SALES Minimum Maximum Average Median

$20,000 $900,000 $184,645 $147,950

per square foot is $42.72. The home at 3901 Joe Sanchez Road sold Nov. 20, for $110,000. Built in 1968, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,442 square feet of living area on 2.06 acres. The price per square foot is $45.05.

The home at 1004 S. Broad St. sold Nov. 5, for $42,500. Built in 1965, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 836 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $50.84.

Magnolia Green

The home at 3013 Azalea Blossom Drive sold Nov. 24, for $140,500 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,936 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $72.57.

The home at 3502 Juanita Drive sold Nov. 13, for $124,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1966, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,668 square feet of living area on 0.69 acres. The price per square foot is $74.34.

Morningside Heights

The home at 1201 Lavender Jewel Court sold Nov. 30, for $311,700. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,850 square feet of living area on 0.24 acres. The price per square foot is $168.49.

Orange Heights

The home at 3207 Nesmith Road sold Nov. 6, for $60,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1964, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,960 square feet of living area on 0.29 acres. The price per square foot is $30.61.

Lincoln Park

The home at 505 S. Johnson St. sold Nov. 20, for $20,000. Built in 1954, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 840 square feet of living area on 0.11 acres. The price per square foot is $23.81.

Little Bit Manor

The home at 3503 Ranchdale Drive sold Nov. 16, for $264,697. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,487 square feet of living area on 1 acre. The price per square foot is $106.43.

The home at 7320 Dormany Loop sold Nov. 24, for $295,000. Built in 1978, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,890 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $156.08.

Fasson South

Madison Terrace

The home at 1204 N. Morningside Drive sold Nov. 4, for $44,500. Built in 1950, it has one bedroom, one bath and 1,008 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $44.15. The home at 1003 W. Spencer St. sold Nov. 25, for $78,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1962, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,460 square feet of living area on 0.22 acres. The price per square foot is $53.42.

Piney Oaks Estates

The home at 1613 Cedar Drive sold Nov. 9, for $70,500 (auction). Built in 1974, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,220 square feet of living area on 1 acre. The price per square foot is $57.79.

Roberts

The home at 1307 Bonnie Road sold Nov. 20, for $61,100 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1956, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,764 square feet of living area on 0.26 acres. The price per square foot is $34.64.

Seminole Lake Estates

The home at 3202 W. Reynolds St. sold Nov. 16, for $71,000. Built in 1983, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 842 square feet of living area on 0.12 acres. The price per

square foot is $84.32. The home at 204 Walter Drive sold Nov. 6, for $90,000. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,275 square feet of living area on 0.24 acres. The price per square foot is $70.59.

Shepherd Platted

The home at 5241 Stafford Road sold Nov. 4, for $225,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,708 square feet of living area on 1.04 acres. The price per square foot is $131.73.

Sheppard Road

The home at 4302 Shepherd Road sold Nov. 6, for $59,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,512 square feet of living area on 1.28 acres. The price per square foot is $39.62.

Thomas

The home at 707 N. Collins St. sold Nov. 20, for $580,000. Built in 1905, it has five bedrooms, six baths and 4,278 square feet of living area on 0.27 acres. The price per square foot is $135.58.

Thomas Wayne

The home at 3501 Liles Lane sold Nov. 2, for $80,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1964, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,552 square feet of living area on 0.64 acres. The price per square foot is $51.55.

Trapnell East

The home at 906 Cowart Road sold Nov. 14, for $215,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,836 square feet of living area on 1.01 acres. The price per square foot is $117.10.

Walden Lake

The home at 2721 Forest Club Drive sold Nov. 30, for $299,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two and one

The home at 3314 Nohlcrest Place sold Nov. 9, for $221,500. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,861 square feet of living area on 0.46 acres. The price per square foot is $119.02. The home at 3007 Pine Club Drive sold Nov. 30, for $318,000. Built in 1996, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,582 square feet of living area on 0.37 acres. The price per square foot is $123.16. The home at 3354 Silvermoon Drive sold Nov. 13, for $195,000. Built in 1995, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,848 square feet of living area on 0.25 acres.

The price per square foot is $105.52. The home at 4109 Silvermoon Drive sold Nov. 4, for $181,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,174 square feet of living area on 0.24 acres. The price per square foot is $83.67. The home at 3442 Silverstone Court sold Nov. 12, for $135,500 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,850 square feet of living area on 0.24 acres. The price per square foot is $73.24. The home at 3023 Sutton Woods Drive sold Nov. 2, for $265,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,334 square feet of living area on 0.37 acres. The price per square foot is $113.54. The home at 3048 Sutton Woods Drive sold Nov. 2, for $350,000. Built in 1999, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,651 square feet of living area on 0.52 acres. The price per square foot is $132.03. The home at 2204 Wedgewood Court sold Nov. 2, for $245,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,921 square feet of living area on 0.38 acres. The price per square

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC AUCTION STORAGE SALE In accordance with the provisions of the Florida Self Storage Act (sections 83.801 - 83.809), there being due and unpaid charges for which the undersigned is entitled to satisfy an owner and/or manager’s lien of the goods hereinafter described and stored at the Uncle Bob’s Self Storage location(s) listed below.

And, due notice having been given, to the owner of said property and all parties known to claim an interest therein, and the time specified in such notice for payment of such having expired, the goods will be sold at public auction at the below stated location(s) to the highest bidder or otherwise disposed of on Monday, December 21, 2015 at 9:00 AM at 1005 South Alexander Street, Plant City, FL 33563, 813759-9526. CUSTOMER NAME Leanne Ottinger Tiffany Wynn Christen Dorsey Antwonne Gordon Dale Doehring John James Jennifer Guilds

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UNCLE BOB’S SELF STORAGE #099 1005 SOUTH ALEXANDER STREET PLANT CITY, FL 33563 PHONE: (813) 759-9526 FAX: (813) 759-9481

188691

The home at 7529 S. County Line Road sold Nov. 25, for $271,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,772 square feet of living area on 5.02 acres. The price per square foot is $97.76.

Helen Winter Gardens

Hillsborough

The home at 1405 E. Cherry St. sold Nov. 30, for $69,000. Built in 1953, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 832 square feet of living area on 0.17 acres. The price per square foot is $82.93. The home at 3305 Clay Turner Road sold Nov. 24, for $61,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,428 square feet of living area on 1.02 acres. The price

Unity in the Community and Stingray Chevrolet- Major Sponsors General Sponsors: City of Plant City Astin Strawberry Exchange Star Distribution Mayor Rick & Di Lott Jarrett-Scott Ford

Partner Sponsors:

Noon Day Rotary Plant City High School Plant City Police Dept. Hillsborough County Sheriff Dept. City Parks and Recreation Dept.

Winn-Dixie Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Center State Bank Walden Lake Car Wash Baskin Tax Collecting

Also a BIG Thank You to all the Participants and Volunteers.

190819

The home at 4914 Indian Springs Court sold Nov. 12, for $210,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,091 square feet of living area on 1.35 acres. The price per square foot is $100.43.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

Observer

Obituaries Theodore Robert Armistead

Theodore Robert Armistead, 73, of Plant City, died Nov. 28, 2015. A native of Thomasville, Georgia, he was the son of Robert and Sue Armistead. He was a veteran of both the United States Army and Air Force, serving two tours of duty in Vietnam. He is survived by his wife, Tammy White Armistead. The family will be having private services. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Rowland B. Ax

Rowland B. Ax, 81, of Plant City, and born in Detroit, Michigan, died Dec. 3, 2015. He was a veteran of the United States Navy and Army and was a member of Pleasant Grove Assembly of God. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie Virginia Ax. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy A. Ax; children, Jim Ax (Sally), of Lakeland, Mike Ax (Ann), of Massachusetts, and Linda Sapp (Rocky), of Lakeland; brother, Richard Ax, of Michigan; 10 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren. The family received friends Dec. 8 at Hopewell Funeral Home. A service was held Dec. 9 at Hopewell Funeral Home. Committal followed at Pleasant Grove Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.

Nora Carr

Nora Carr, 85, of Plant City, died Nov. 28, 2015, surround-

ed by family and friends. It is with saddened hearts the family shares this news. She was born in Northumberland, New Castle England, the youngest of three. She married Robert Carr in 1952. She was a double decker bus conductress before moving to Canada in 1956, then Battle Creek, Michigan, before settling in Plant City in 1982. She was beloved by all that knew her. She was an expert knitter, knitting newborn caps for the local hospital nursery. She was a loyal friend. She is survived by her grandson, Justin Carr; granddaughter, Amber Carlsen, of New Port Richey; greatgrandchildren, Kylee, Katelyn and Kelsey, of Harrah, Oklahoma; and longtime friend and caregiver, Rhonda Durham. A service was held Dec. 2 at Wells Memorial and Event Center. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

Janis E. Cotten

Janis E. Cotten, 83, of Plant City, and born in Baroda, Michigan, died Dec. 1, 2015. She was a member of Plant City’s First Baptist Church. She is survived by her husband, Charles F. Cotten; children, Jan Bohner, of Boca Raton, Julie Young (Ray), of Plant City, and Ken Wetherington (Kristi), of Plant City; stepdaughters, Janene Cook (Dale) and Cindy Watson (Ralph), of Plant City; brothers, Dean Zerby (Joann), of Indiana, and Terry Zerby (Sandy), of Ohio; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. A service was held Dec. 5 at Hopewell Funeral Home. Committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.

William “Billy” Oscar Eason

Billy Eason, 65, of Dover, died Dec. 2, 2015. He graduated from Turkey Creek High School in 1968. He worked 19 years for Gardinier Phosphate Mine, where he was the president of the Electrical Union. After that, he was a security guard with Securitas for Mosaic Industries. He was a member of First Baptist Dover and was a University of Florida fan. He is survived by his sister, Linda Crosby (Jerry); nephews, Justin Crosby (Deidra) and Ryan Crosby (Maria); great-niece, Audrey Anna; and great-nephews, Jonathan, Anthony and Noah. He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Mable Eason. A service was held Dec. 7 at First Baptist Dover. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the First Baptist Dover Building Fund, First Baptist Dover, 3223 Gallagher Road, Dover, Florida 33527. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

Mary Louise Gunn

Mary Louise Gunn, 91, of Plant City, died Dec. 4, 2015. She was a member of Willow Oak Baptist Church, Mulberry. She loved her family, and dedicated her life to the Lord. She is survived by her children, Donnie Gunn (Patti), of Plant City; Yvonne Walker (Ronnie), of Plant City; and

Terry Gunn (Burnise), of Lithia; siblings, Eugene Duckworth, Grady Duckworth, Marie Hudson and Betty Jean Gunner; 10 grandchildren; and many greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Benjamin “Pud” Gunn; and daughter, Wanda Gail Barron (Ronnie). A service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at Hopewell Funeral Home in Plant City, 6005 C.R. 39 S., Plant City. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m. Committal will follow at Memorial Park in Plant City. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.

Etta W. Hall

Etta W. Hall, 83, of Plant City, and born in Cochran, Georgia, died Nov. 27, 2015. She is survived by her husband, Glenvil Hall; children, Larry Hall, Ricky Hall (Janine), Sheila Daye (Randy) and Alice Hall (Eddie), of Plant City; siblings, Rev. Albert Stroup (Hazel), Bob Stroup (Martha) and Margie Connell, of Georgia; sister-in-laws, Darla Simmons and Marlene Sapp, of Plant City; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by eight siblings. A service was held Dec. 3 at Hopewell Funeral Home. Committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.

Sylvia Hooker Johnson

Sylvia Hooker Johnson, 81, of Plant City, died Dec. 1, 2015, in Lakeland. She was a second grade teacher and a member of Eastside Baptist Church in Plant City. She was a collector of porcelain dolls and loved to travel. Camping and cruising were some of her favorites. She is survived by her husband of 19 years, Allen Strawser; son, Jack Johnson; daughter, Janice Wilder (Richard); brother, Gene Hooker; grandchildren, Jennifer, James and

Jaslyn; great-grandchildren, Dillya, Trevon, Paige and Elijah; and family friend, Susie Shields. She was preceded in death by her first husband of over 30 years, Charles Johnson; and daughter, Donna Johnson. A service was held Dec. 7 at Wells Memorial and Event Center in Plant City. Burial followed at West Oaklawn Cemetery in Plant City. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

Virginia “Ginny” Logue

Virginia “Ginny” Logue, 86, of Plant City, died Nov. 25, 2015, at home surrounded by family. She enjoyed fishing, exercising and spending time outside in the sun. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family and laughing. She will be missed by many. She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Donald Logue. She is survived by two sons, Larry Logue (Martha) and Dale Logue; daughter, Sharon Lenker; brothers, George Chutter (Dorothy) and Richard Chutter (Kathy); sisters, Annette Stanley (Benny) and Mary Chutter (Paul); grandchildren, Laurin, Kayla, Perry, Brandy, Chris and Sammy; great-grandchildren, Brent, Brittany, Jacob and Riley; and great-great-grandchild, Madison. A service was held Dec. 2 at Wells Memorial and Event Center. Burial followed at Mt. Enon Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

Elizabeth Nichole Rodriguez

Elizabeth Nichole Rodriguez, 29, of Plant City, died Dec. 2, 2015. A native of Tampa, she was the daughter of Alfredo Rodriguez and Brenda Jackson Gomez. She enjoyed the beach, rivers, animals, fishing, boating and anything outdoors. She is survived by her parents; sisters, Melody Sprouse, Kayla Thomlinson, Linda and Jennifer Rodriguez, and Cheyenne and Shyla Gomez;

brothers, Alfredo and Ricky Rodriguez; and Michael Jackson. Service information is pending. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Bonny J. Snow

Bonny J. Snow, 72, of Plant City, died Nov. 19, 2015. A native of Plant City, she was the daughter of Andrew and Agnes Aycock Day. She loved her grandchildren very much, and her life was her dogs, Tater and Pepper, and her flower garden. The family wants everyone to know she has “gone yard sailing.” She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Bob Snow; sons, Gregg Snow and Derek Snow; daughter, Luwana Hughes (Ryan); sisters, Betty Snow and Bobbie Jo Barker; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. A memorial service was held Monday, Nov. 23, at Youmans Praise and Worship Center. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Edward E. Thompson

Edward E. Thompson, 98 of Lakeland, died Nov. 29, 2015. A native of Ireland, he was the son of Robert and Margaret Louise Thompson. He was a veteran of the United States Army, and attended First Baptist Church. He loved gardening, roses, fishing and antique and clock collecting. He is survived by his wife, Velma Morgan Thompson; stepson, Thomas Lambert (Nancy); stepdaughters, Glenda Marin, Nelma Dawson and Lori Friend (Billy); eight stepgrandchildren; four stepgreat-grandchildren; four step-great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews. A funeral service was held Wednesday, Dec. 2, at Haught Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

188073

Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Tamara Hanson is leading the way as a Lady Cougars basketball forward. 14 SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

TRENDING by Justin Kline | Sports Editor

IS LITTLE LEAGUE DYING? Four years ago, Plant City Little League’s spring girls registration numbers were closer to 1,000 than 100. These days, the crowds in Mike Sansone Park are noticeably thinner. New PCLL President Ben Smith’s first order of business is to get participation up, and it’s not hard to see why. On the girls side, the league has lost nearly 200 spring players and over 100 fall players since 2011, and things don’t look to be getting better on the surface. This trend isn’t exclusive to the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, as Little League softball and baseball numbers across the country have been dropping each year. But it’s a reliable enough sample size that it’s safe to pose a tough question: is Little League dying? “A lot of parks are dropping

BASKETBALL

While Smith says that Plant City has “no interest” in breaking off anytime soon, a large enough drop in participation would certainly warrant changes to be made. Several factors appear to be killing Little League, and a look into the state of the Plant City area’s baseball scene can explain why — at least, on a local level.

BASEBALL

Justin Kline

The Plant City Dolphins will have all of its teams in this year’s tournament. out of Little League and going over to Babe Ruth or Cal Ripken programs,” Smith says. “Four parks in our general area, over the last three years.”

North Brandon, Peterson Park and Auburndale have left the organization, and Smith says that South Brandon could be the next team out the door.

Baseball’s problem stems directly from Little League’s competition. That doesn’t mean the local travel ball teams — Smith, himself, is also involved with one — but the organizations that are set up to compete with Little League on a larger scale. The name that comes up most often is Cal Ripken. Founded by the “Iron Man” himself, Cal Ripken Baseball is

an alternative to Little League that offers a playing experience closer to travel ball than Little League. Its basepaths are wider, the distance from the mound to the batter’s box is greater and teams have greater control over what they can do in tournament play. (Specifically, getting more chances than in Little League’s singleelimination system.) Smith, however, believes that the Cal Ripken experience isn’t as far ahead of Little League as some people think. “There’s things about Cal Ripken that I think are good, such as leading off — it’s more aligned with real baseball and making progress towards the future,” Smith says. “But, at the same time, Little League has been around so long, and the structure is so good, you’d

SEE LEAGUE / PAGE 12

by Justin Kline | Sports Editor

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

Get great gifts for sports fans I stumbled upon this idea over the weekend when my colleague, Emily Topper, asked me what she should get her sports fanatic boyfriend for Christmas. He’s a diehard Gator fan, like many of you, so the trick was to find something he didn’t already own. I found a nice little piece of autographed memorabilia for a good price, JUSTIN something KLINE with signatures from the greatest quarterback and coach in University of Florida history, and we think it’ll be the perfect gift. It also made me think that many of you readers are in the same boat. So, I’ve put together a list of things that I think would be great for the sports fan who has everything.

SEE KLINE / PAGE 14

SIDELINES Do you have a good Sports scoop for us? Email Justin Kline at jkline@plantcity observer.com, or Tweet us at @PCTOSports.

FOOTBALL

+ Bucs name Meyer coach of year

David O’Callaghan and the Plant City Lady Raiders are making the best of a tricky situation.

Justin Kline

Don’t stop believin’ Despite losing five players and two coaches, Plant City’s girls basketball team has started strong.

or any sports team, it’s tough to focus after a coaching change. This can be especially true of high school sports, when such changes can be coupled with enough player losses to make, essentially, a brand-new team. This has been Plant City’s challenge in the 2015-16 season, but the team didn’t immediately know what it would be up against. While many probably believed the team was on track for a two-win season at best, coach David O’Callaghan has gotten his girls off to a 4-2 start.

BEATING THE ODDS

It all started in the offseason, when the Lady Raiders lost key player Shayna Lawrence. Lawrence, a senior, relocated to Georgia with her family before the beginning of the school year. She wasn’t Plant City’s

only immediate loss but, as the star forward and top rebounding presence, her contributions to the frontcourt would be missed. The next big blow happened as tryouts for the season were beginning. On Tuesday, Oct. 20, then-coach Wilt Wilkerson called PCHS athletic director Tim Leeseberg to say that he would not be coaching the team this season. A few days later, he withdrew his daughter from school and moved the family to Georgia — near the Lawrences, with whom Wilkerson and his family have long been friends.

Suddenly, Plant City needed to replace five players, its head coach and an assistant. After a brief search, Leeseberg opted to stay in-house and promote O’Callaghan from the junior varsity girls team. O’Callaghan, 24, is a 2009 PCHS graduate who also suited up for the basketball team while in school. He earned the promotion after one year of coaching the JV team and was able to maintain many of the same in-game facets that were a part of Wilkerson’s system. He’s one of the few Raider coaches that is not a teacher: by day, O’Callaghan is a tax accountant for Lockheed Martin. His wife and mother-in-law both work at PCHS.

SEE RAIDERS / PAGE 12

2015-16 LADY RAIDERS 3: Courtney Greene (G, Sr.) 11: Rebecca Sorensen (G, Sr.) 12: Alexis Williams (G/F, Jr.) 13: LaToya McIntyre (F, Sr.) 20: Constance Thomas (G, Fr.) 22: Mackenzie Steele (G/F, So.) 23: Lacey Hargrove (G, Jr.) 24: Tyra Mack (F, Jr.) 30: Qaleia Brown (G, So.) 31: Jordin Vance (F/C, So.) 42: Qaniyah Brown (G/F, Jr.) 55: Tonii Ford (F/C, Jr.)

Before last Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons, the Bucs announced that Greg Meyer won the High School Coach of the Year award. It’s the second time the team has honored Meyer this season — he was named Coach of the Week for the Raiders’ Week 5 win over East Bay. The win means that Meyer is up for the NFL’s Don Shula Coach of the Year award against 31 NFL teams’ top high school coaches. The winner is expected to be announced in January.

CHEERLEADING

+ Crest takes UCA Regionals The Chargers’ JV and varsity co-ed teams both won first place at the UCA Regional Championships Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Tampa Convention Center. The wins qualify both teams for the UCA National Championships, which are to be held in February at the ESPN Wide World of Sports

+ Dolphins to compete in UYFL Dolphins cheerleading teams are set to compete for UYFL gold, as the girls have entered the Saturday, Dec. 12, Battle of the Bows Cheer Championships. As of press time, the all-day event is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. at the Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 41 Business, Tampa.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 2015

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Here are total registration numbers for Plant City girls wanting to play Little League baseball and softball, from 2011 to this year.

649

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453

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468

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LEAGUE / FROM PAGE 11

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Smith’s daughter wants to play softball, and he’s experienced this in the roles of both league president and parent. Here’s the problem: when PCLL doesn’t have enough girls sign up for softball, those who want to be involved get funneled to baseball — with the boys. Many girls, including Smith’s daughter, aren’t too big on that. “We tried baseball with her, and she just didn’t like it,” Smith says. “I think there’s a lot of girls that don’t get to play softball, and they don’t want to play with the boys too.” In that case, the only way to play softball is to join a travel team.

think that people would be more into that. You always hear big-leaguers talking about how they played in Little League. A lot of kids do go on to play in the pros.” Yet, Little League numbers are in decline. The one area where things seem to be going well is in the 50-70 baseball division that Little League created in recent years. Named for its basepath dimensions (50 feet from mound to home plate, 70 feet between bases), this division offers a similar experience to what one would get in Cal Ripken or other, similar leagues. It was created in 2012, with 447 teams in 162 leagues, and ballooned to 2,636 teams in 1,100 leagues in 2013. It’s not that Little League isn’t attempting to adapt its

2013

2014

2015

rules and structure to match Cal Ripken’s — its just that the changes are coming slowly, because the organization is in no rush to implement them.

SOFTBALL

Softball’s problem is a little different. Participation numbers are in a much sharper decline than that of the boys. In Plant City, Smith says that travel ball has had the exact opposite effect on softball as baseball. “With travel baseball, my experience is that most of the coaches encourage their kids to come out and play, to get more reps,” he says. “But in softball, I’ve spoken with quite a few coaches, and they discourage kids from participating in recreational softball. The only thing I can gather from it is they feel it won’t be beneficial.”

Smith believes that other areas which are hurting PCLL, and likely other leagues around the country, is a lack of word-of-mouth support. He says that he’s spoken with people who had no idea that there was softball offered in the area and were taking their kids to areas such as Lakeland to play. But there’s something affecting PCLL that is unique to Plant City. Last year, the Plant City Colts organization decided to branch out from football and start a baseball program. At $50 per player, the program was more affordable than PCLL and catered to players who couldn’t afford the cost to play at Mike Sansone Park. But the Colts had trouble getting players to sign up, and that led to financial problems. The league shut down, but attempts by former PCLL president Cory Kirkland to bring Colts players into PCLL were, as Smith puts it, “shot down.” The current PCLL president hopes that at least some

RAIDERS / FROM PAGE 11 O’Callaghan had worked with a handful of the players before moving up to the varsity team this year, and relied on them to help make the transition smoother for everyone. His first message to the girls was simple. “It was really about a week before our first game,” O’Callaghan says. “The first thing I said was, ‘You’ve got to believe in me. I know I’m a young coach, I know you’re a young team, but you’ve got to believe in me.’” Plant City ended up losing that first game, a 55-44 defeat at the hands of Plant High, but then the Lady Raiders ripped off four straight wins, including a 59-13 blowout at Lennard.

SQUAD GOALS

O’Callaghan isn’t taking this season lightly, even in the face of such heavy losses. “Our goal is to make it out of the district tournament,” he says. In a district with a constant force in Strawberry Crest and an up-and-coming Durant squad, that’s no small task. It’s especially difficult when considering how guard-heavy Plant City is — without the size it had

Shayna Lawrence was a key loss for Plant City. last year, winning rebounding battles is difficult. So the Lady Raiders are taking full advantage of one of the latest trends in the basketball

world: small ball. It is fast becoming a thing in hoops, especially after the Golden State Warriors used it to win an NBA championship and

of those players will take a chance with his league this season, now that the Colts are out of the picture. “I would really like to see some of those kids play with us,” Smith says. “There’s got to be some really good athletes out there that we’re not getting. Maybe they just need the opportunity to find out how good they are at baseball.”

SOLVING THE PROBLEM

Getting participation to where Smith and PCLL would like it to be will not be an overnight process, and they know this. But the league hasn’t survived for over 50 years in Plant City for nothing, and it believes that it could realistically grow its numbers sooner than later. One of the points that Smith wants to hammer home is that, while the $165 playing fee is steeper than what the Colts were offering (which includes the mandatory, $30 city fee), Little League programs are not allowed to turn children away because they are unable to pay. This isn’t to say that PCLL, or any Little League around the country, could support itself while allowing a lot of kids to play at no cost. The money will have to make its way to PCLL somehow, as it has to keep up on its many operating costs. But Smith says that the league does offer scholarships, and would be willing to host fundraisers, in the event that some families have real trouble paying and need the help. “I just want people to know that we’re there, and we just really want to get as many kids involved in baseball and softball as we can,” Smith says. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

begin this year on an unprecedented win streak. While many teams do it to mix things up, the Lady Raiders play small ball out of necessity. This means that their game is, for the most part, fast. O’Callaghan’s up-tempo offense relies on junior Lacey Hargrove and the backcourt to out-maneuver their opponents. The goal is to set up scoring chances as quickly as possible in the hopes of beating the forwards and centers to the net. That’s not to say that Plant City doesn’t slow things down when it should, but anyone at a Lady Raiders game should be prepared to follow the ball quickly. Hargrove currently leads the team with 16.3 points and has 4.7 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 4.3 steals per game. Freshman Constance Thomas has also been a big part of the team’s success, scoring 12.7 points per game, and sophomore Jordin Vance is doing her part around the glass with 9.3 rebounds and one block per game. Achieving O’Callaghan’s goal will be tough, but it wouldn’t be the first time Plant City has defied the odds this season. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

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PLANT CITY TIME & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

FOOTBALL by Justin Kline | Sports Editor

UYFL tourney kicks off The United Youth Football League’s national championship tournament began play Sunday, Dec. 6, and the action has not disappointed. Hundreds of teams, spanning 16 age divisions, have descended upon the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex for a week of competition, including several Plant City Dolphins teams. The football games will conclude with the Friday, Dec. 11, championship series, with games scheduled throughout the day. For additional championship game information, visit UYFL.com.

Left: Chicagoland’s running back got flipped over by the Raiders’ defense. Below: A Cambridge Panthers player loosened up his throwing arm.

Chicagoland, wearing orange and blue, defeated Pinellas Park, 31-12, to advance to the third round of the tournament.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

KLINE / FROM PAGE 11

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

behind: the Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium features an underrated Tennessee Volunteers team taking on a defensively solid Northwestern Wildcats team. The game kicks off at noon on New Year’s Day, and the official Outback Bowl website has tickets going for $80. For the chance to see two very good college teams going at it in a New Year’s Day bowl game, that’s not bad at all. I’d go, but I’ll be in Arizona to watch my beloved Fighting Irish score an upset win over Ohio State.

GAME TICKETS

There’s no shortage of sporting events to attend in the Tampa Bay area, and it’s possible to go to many of them on the cheap. If you’ve never been to a hockey game before, I highly suggest checking one out in person. It’s so much different — and better — than the TV experience. Tampa just happens to have a pretty talented team and, while the upcoming home slate against the likes of New York, Chicago, Montreal and Detroit won’t be cheap, tickets to the Bolts-Panthers rivalry game are going for as low as $19 before tax. I don’t root for the Lightning, but I’ve caught enough Bolts games to know that it’s a good experience no matter where you sit. Not all of you are sold on hockey, however, so here’s an alternative I’m sure you can get

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put their team pride on display. I’ve always used fanatics. com for car stuff, and I noticed that they’ve started selling Star Wars-licensed college football gear. Some of the gear is both cheap ($4.99) and cool. “Seminoles Empire” sounds way more intimidating than most other fanbases, with or without the attached Darth Vader head. For those of you that want to support Plant City-based teams, I also have something for you. You can hit up SpiritShop.com right now and create your own custom Durant, Plant City or Strawberry Crest gear, with options to add names included. It has about every product imaginable available for customization, and the system is pretty straightforward, so you could spend about 10 minutes on the site and make a great gift for the student-athlete, alum or coach in your life. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

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The Durant girls basketball team is off to a great start this season, and junior forward Tamara Hanson is leading the way. She’s averaging a double-double (12.8 points, 10.7 rebounds) through the first month of the 2015-16 season and has been crucial to the Lady Cougars’ 5-1 start. Durant’s off to a good start this season, and you’ve been playing well, yourself. What’s helped get you all to play well right away? I think it’s our teamwork. Being together for so long as a team, we can play off of each other as friends.

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TAMARA HANSON How long have you played for Durant? Actually, I transferred here last year, from New York. I’m from Long Island. I was here during basketball season; I just wasn’t that big of a presence, I guess you could say. Buy a Gift Certificate for $25 or more get a here How different is itand playing than in New York? I know the boys hoops scene is huge up there, but I don’t know exterior about the girls. car WaSh It’s a bit more aggressive here than it is in New York, and the competitiveness is a little bit different down here. Even though you always wanted to win in New York, in the South, it’s even more of, like, you really want to win. College sports is a bigger factor down here than in New York, so I feel like that adds on to it.

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How long have you been playing basketball? About four years. What first brought you to it? You could start playing sports in seventh grade, so it was just like, “Oh, well, basketball seems cool. I should probably try out.” That’s where it started. What position did you start playing? I started playing as a center but, this year, they moved me to power forward.

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What’s your favorite team? New York Knicks. I started liking the Brooklyn Nets when they first moved there, but I had to stick with the Knicks. They’re the originals. If you could play for any team, what would it be? Minnesota Lynx. That’s where Maya Moore plays. If you could meet anybody you’ve always looked up to, who would it be? LeBron James, probably. We would play basketball. Let’s say you make the pros one day, women’s basketball becomes popular, and you make $1 billion. What’s the first thing you buy? A house for my mom, probably. You’ve got to pay back your mom. Let’s say a little girl’s getting started in basketball, and she asks you for advice on being a good player. What do you tell her? I’d tell her to keep trying, and not to give up on it, and to work hard. Hard work pays off. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Super speed. I’d want to be super fast. Of all the goals you have this year, in sports or in the classroom, what’s at the top of your list? Finishing with straight A’s at least once through nine weeks. Do you play any other sports? Last year, I did track. I might do track again this year, but I’m also thinking of doing AAU basketball. – Justin Kline

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PLANT CITY TIME & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

RAIN

PLANT CITY

(INCHES)

WEATHER

THURS. Nov. 26

0.00

FRI.

TEMPERATURES

Nov. 27

0.00

Friday, Dec. 11 Saturday, Dec. 12 Sunday, Dec. 13 Monday, Dec. 14 Tuesday, Dec. 15 Wednesday, Dec. 16 Thursday, Dec. 17

SAT.

Nov. 28

0.00

SUN.

Nov. 29

0.00

MON.

HIGH 80 84 84 84 81 83 83

Nov. 30

SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

TUES.

Friday, Dec. 11 Saturday, Dec. 12 Sunday, Dec. 13 Monday, Dec. 14 Tuesday, Dec. 15 Wednesday, Dec. 16 Thursday, Dec. 17

0.00

Dec. 1

0.00

WED.

Dec. 2

0.00

MONTH

TO DATE

4.31 (2014: 3.32)

SUNRISE 7:09 a.m. 7:10 a.m. 7:11 a.m. 7:11 a.m. 7:12 a.m. 7:12 a.m. 7:13 a.m.

LOW 60 64 67 63 65 67 63

MOON

SUNSET 5:34 p.m. 5:34 p.m. 5:34 p.m. 5:34 p.m. 5:35 p.m. 5:35 p.m. 5:36 p.m.

PHASES

Dec. 11

Dec. 18

TOMATOES SHIPPING POINT: Orlando $16.95 too $17.95

YEAR

Dec. 25

TO DATE 44.87 (2014: 47.27)

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

LOUANN and PUNK WATSON captured the new “Man on the Street” sculptures arriving in Plant City. They can be seen around Historic Downtown.

LouAnn and Punk win a Grimes Hardware Strawberry Town Cafe gift card. They can claim the card with an ID at Strawberry Town Cafe, 3161 Paul Buchman Highway.

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Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a prominent physician. Using the hints A=E and G=R, decipher the clues to name the physician.

ACROSS 1 ___ in the back (betrays) 6 Digital junk mail 10 Bills and coins 14 Speaks like King James? 19 Monetary unit of Nigeria 20 “The Last of the Mohicans” girl 21 Turkish honorific (var.) 22 Skylit central courts 23 The “A” in James A. Garfield 24 Safecracker, slangily 25 Ball game delayer 26 Wanders here and there 27 Like most office phones 29 New York city 31 High school department 32 Mortise inserts 34 Put forward as truth 35 Trials and tribulations 38 Decade number 40 Cures, as hides 41 Commotion 42 Opposite of “Dep.” on a flight board 43 Change decor 44 Shellfish dish 48 Place to store food 50 Persona ___ grata 52 Emailed a file 55 Follower of Zeno 56 Uncle of rice fame 57 Erstwhile Russian rulers 60 Act like a nomad 61 Andrew Jackson’s home (with 62-Down) 63 Kauai strings 64 Commas signal them 66 Reveals 70 Leg wrap for soldiers 74 Feel under par 75 The worm catcher? 80 Emollient ingredient 81 Indecisive response 83 In ___ event (regardless) 84 Type of space 85 Party decoration 88 Printer liquid 89 More than risky 90 Sumatra native 94 Soarer over Atlantic City 96 “Back to the Future” star Thompson 97 Au ___ (French dip’s dip) 98 Priestly vestments 99 Grammy category 100 North Pole explorer 101 A rotor turns on it 105 German diacritical mark 107 “Bye bye” 109 “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” author Irving 111 American Revolutionary leader Robert R. 116 “Dumb & Dumber” destination 117 “All ___!” (court phrase) 118 Helmsman’s direction 119 Hole ___ (golfer’s dream) 120 Gatherers in gaggles 121 “What a bummer”

1. H J D X G U H 2. Q A J G K C K B F 3. E A G A O G H C W H C D F 4. A B K 5. S G A H N D This physician was known as the “Father of Psychoanalysis”:

SUDOKU

Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 through 9 in each row, column and box. Dec 10 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.32)

8 5

3 1

6 3

9 4

9 5

6 3

8 4 2 7

187935

CROSSWORD THOUSANDS OF POUNDS by George Pompey

CRYPTOQUIZ

3 8 6

7 Dec 10 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.32)

6 1

4 8 5

8 2

9 5

9 1

6 3

4 5

4 7

122 Golf ball props 123 Blair of “The Exorcist” 124 Made a goof 125 G.I.’s hall or kit 126 Before now, before now 127 Art prop

35 John who hosted “America’s Most Wanted” 36 Deliver an impassioned speech 37 Baseball misplay 39 The external world 41 Crafts’ counterparts 43 Speak from memory DOWN 45 Listening device 1 Click the fingers 46 Light tan 2 Cologne that is off-limits? 47 “___ there?” (part of a knock3 Broadcasts knock joke) 4 Famous lullaby composer 49 Lacking brightness 5 Ballroom activity 51 Street sign with an arrow 6 Cut down in the field 53 Dec. 24, for one 7 Burns or Byron, e.g. 54 ___ Plaines, Illinois 8 Shop talk 56 Form of candy 9 Attraction unit 57 Wedding dress fabric, sometimes 10 Typists’ copies, once 58 Enjoy the slopes 11 Hostile to 59 Sea off Turkey 12 Climbs, as a pole 62 Title starter, often 13 Display, as a picture 64 Campaign pro 14 City south of St. Petersburg 65 Volunteer-seeker’s query 15 Items in physics 67 Bro or sis 16 Boiling mad 68 Have a longing 17 Island east of Java 69 Attempt 18 Word before “a prayer” or “a clue” 70 Faux ___ (blunder) 28 Express audibly 71 Consultants, at heart? 30 Owned, in the Old Testament 72 Spelling of “Beverly Hills, 33 Roll-call dissent 90210”

73 Between 12 and 20 76 Commuting option 77 Boot of Europe 78 Send, as for treatment 79 View with anxiety 81 Restroom sign 82 “How ___ things?” 86 Shared a boundary with 87 Opposite of celebrate 88 Make heatproof 89 Take off, as a brooch 91 Indian appetizers 92 The flu, for one 93 Attorney’s grp. 95 Risque to the max 100 Balkan War participant 101 Metal-bending tool 102 Electric dart shooter 103 “___ your instructions ...” 104 The things here 105 Serving a purpose 106 Floor layer, at times 108 Quick on one’s feet 110 .035 ounces 112 Neckline shapes 113 This puzzle’s theme 114 Wave to Paris? 115 “A Face in the Crowd” actress Patricia

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015

Discover Freedom from Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a term that describes any accidental or involuntary loss of urine from the bladder. Women are most likely to develop incontinence during pregnancy, after childbirth or after hormonal changes of menopause due to weakened pelvic muscles. Symptoms of urinary incontinence include: ■ Inability to urinate

Mark B. Baker, MD, FACS Urologist

■ Pain related to filling the bladder ■ Increased rate of urination without a proven bladder infection ■ Rushing to the restroom and/or losing urine if you do not get there in time ■ Frequent instances of urine leakage Robotic-assisted surgery is a minimally invasive treatment option for patients who have been unable to find relief using medication and other nonsurgical therapies. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms referenced above, contact your doctor to find out if you are a candidate for minimally invasive robotic bladder repair.

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