12.20.18 PLCO by Plant City Observer

PLANT CITY

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 6, NO. 25

LOCAL OFFICER SAVES CHRISTMAS A detective with PCPD brought more than a thousand donated toys to children in the Panhandle suffering in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael.

A detective with Plant City Police Department partnered with local organizations to ensure children in the Panhandle were able to have a Christmas after the devastation of Hurricane Michael.

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Spreading Christmas cheer. SEE PAGE 9

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

Michael Bard, PCPD detective and Coast Guard captain, went to the Panhandle following Michael’s destructive path with the Tampa Strong group.

SEE PAGE 7

Matthew Davis and Michael Bard loading a trailer full of toys to deliver to children.

CITY HONORS ASHLEY MOODY

YOUR TOWN

Courtesy of John Ingraham

JROTC spreads holiday cheer

Breanne Williams

Every city commissioner, along with Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Chairman Jason Jones, Ashley’s family and community members, attended the ceremony.

Ashley Moody is officially the highest-elected official from Plant City and was honored with a sign dedication ceremony Tuesday afternoon. SEE PAGE 5

shley Moody was honored in a special ceremony Tuesday at Sunrise Park. The Plant City native is the highest-elected official in Plant City history and the city commemorated her election by purchasing several signs for major entrances to the city that congratulate her for the victory.

JROTC cadets at Strawberry Crest High School spread some holiday cheer to residents at the Community Care Nursing Home last week. Each year the cadets give back to the community and they consider the annual stop at Community Care to be a highlight of their year. The cadets rehearsed Christmas carols for a week prior to the show and donned Santa hats to add to the festive spirit. The residents sing along and there were even several solos by highlighted cadets. This year they added music to accompany the show. Following at least 15 carols there was a surprise ceremony where Cadet Destiny Cattery was promoted from 2LT to Captain.

“The Moody family believes in hard work, character and — above everything else — honor and honesty in everything that they do,” Mayor Rick Lott said. “Today we are placing signage in several entrances to our city honoring Ashley Moody as Florida’s next attorney general. Or as Ashley likes to say, ‘Florida’s top cop.’”

SCHS cadet making history Breanne Williams

Taylor Johnson has set several records at Strawberry Crest and said the skills she learned in JROTC are the reason she has been so successful.

Taylor Johnson is only the second female to ever be promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in SCHS’s JROTC history. SEE PAGE 6

Courtesy of John Ingraham

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

HCSO deputy murder-suicide

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hortly before Plant City High School was set to start another Wednesday morning, a nearby Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office deputy radioed in a threat to end his own life just outside school property. Police later learned Terry Strawn, 58, was responsible for three nearby deaths. Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a Wednesday morning press conference that Strawn killed his wife, daughter and granddaughter in their Plant City and Valrico homes before taking his own life. Strawn radioed in at 6:42 a.m. to state he had “caused harm” to his family and gave directions to a location near the school where he planned to kill himself. Deputies’ attempts over the radio and in person to talk him out of taking his own life were unsuccessful, Chronister said. Chronister said in a Wednesday afternoon press conference that Strawn first shot his wife Theresa, 54, and granddaughter Londyn, 6, at their Valrico home, then traveled to Plant City and shot daughter Courtney, 32, at her home. He then left the home, traveled a short distance down the road near the PCHS baseball field and got on the radio. Chronister said Strawn both discussed what he had done and urged the HCSO personnel to “take care of each other.”

Strawn fired all of the shots with his service revolver, HCSO confirmed. Strawn, Chronister said, was hired by HCSO in 1991 and retired in 2017. He was later hired back on as a school resource officer at Valrico Elementary School, which his granddaughter attended. Chronister said he was excited to be promoted from a temporary position to full-time, permanent status. Chronister said Strawn hadn’t shown any signs of depression, financial troubles or anything to suggest he was dealing with any mental health problems. Strawn was named Officer of the Year in 2009 and had passed financial background checks required for his work at Valrico Elementary. “There’s been absolutely no indication of any type of behavioral issues,” Chronister said. “Glowing recommendations throughout his entire training process and job evaluations.” Chronister said HCSO will begin suicide prevention and awareness programs for all personnel beginning in January 2019. Wednesday’s murder-suicide is the second involving an HCSO deputy since September. “We have to change the culture,” Chronister said. “We have to make sure everyone knows that it’s OK to ask for help. It’s not a sign of weakness to say, hey, listen… I need some help.’”

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JUSTIN KLINE

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

Elks spread holiday cheer to first responders

Breanne Williams

PCFR attended the potluck-style dinner at the Elks Lodge. Breanne Williams

The Rookie of the Year was also awarded at the ceremony. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Each year, local first responders are treated to a festive meal and take part in an awards ceremony at the Elks Lodge of Plant City. The Elks have hosted the Plant City Police Department and the Plant City Fire Rescue lunch and dinner, respectively, for 30 years. Following the handcooked meals, the staff members of both departments join their chiefs in an awards program where the employee of the year is honored by their team. “We appreciate what they do for us and it’s a way for the Elks to give back to the community,” Judy Wise, veterans chairman and event organizer for the Elks, said. “And not just the community, the first responders that run into danger instead of away from it. Our volunteers cook all of the food and then serve the departments during the special day. It’s really something special.” Mike Smith, a former Exalted Ruler and longtime Elks member, started the tradition, which follows in the footsteps of the thousands of Elks Lodges across the nation designed to give back to first responders. This year the teams were treated to a ham dinner with scalloped potatoes, green beans, rolls and all the dessert they could ever want. The Woman’s Club of Plant City provided the sweets and PCPD Chief Ed Duncan said it was an honor to know the community had their back and supported their work. This year, Wise said, they’ve had an “overwhelming response” from people wanting to volunteer for the event, which she said shows the dedication Elks members have for first responders. During the PCPD lunch, a special plaque was given from the department to the Lodge in honor of them hosting the event every year. The plaque was a giant wooden black and white American flag with a blue stripe in honor of PCPD. At the bottom was a metal plate explaining that PCPD was showing its love and appreciation for all the Elks do each year. “The chiefs tell us who their employee of the year is and we have a special plaque that has their name on it,” Wise said. “It really is such a special event for both us and them. We love being a part of it. It’s not necessarily a firefighter or an officer. This year for the Plant City

Police Department it’s the head of their communication department. Then they give out special raffle items at the end.” The lunch is a formal affair attended by the officers and staff. Following the lunch, they quickly return to duty. The dinner takes a slightly more relaxed structure as first responders bring their families with them to the event. Many bring food of their own, turning the affair into a potluck. Following the ceremony, the children in attendance were surprised by a visit from Santa Claus who pulled wrapped toys out of a red sack to distribute by name to each of the young guests. This year another layer was added to the event. Wise was in contact with Everyday Blessings, Inc. which cares for children who have been “removed from their previous home due to abuse, neglect or abandonment.” Wise was sharing the story with the group’s director and she said they wanted to get involved. “These children, they wrote letters to our officers at the Plant City Police Department,” Wise said. “When you keep in mind that officers were more than likely involved in assisting in removing them from their homes, the fact that these children were so excited to write them the lovely letters, that says a lot. They were filled with the sweetest notes. One child said ‘I want to be a cop when I grow up.’ I think it will mean a lot for our officers to see that.” The ceremonies concluded with holiday cheer and many of the first responders were sent home with enough leftovers to last for days.

Breanne Williams

Santa Claus made a special appearance at the event, providing toys for children of PCFR members.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

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DIABOLICAL CHRISTMAS 600 block of South Gordon Street Residential burglary: The victim told officers that someone cut his screen, reached inside and unlocked the door to his home. They took a television, Bluetooth speaker and $20 in change from the home before fleeing the scene.

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CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW? 11400 block of Walden Oaks Plaza Fraud: The victim told officers an unknown female had accessed her Verizon account. Using the information they activated three cell phones and three tablets and went to a variety of stores throughout Tampa and Brandon to pick them up. The victim’s bill is approximately $1,600 dollars for the phones and fees.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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CELEBRATING ASHLEY MOODY

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

HEALTH OBSERVED

Moody voiced her gratitude for the community’s support at a sign dedication ceremony held Tuesday afternoon. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Managing Stress during the Holidays By Nelida Rivera, RN, Florida Blue Registered Nurse

With long to-do lists, upcoming family gatherings and, for some, reminders of lost loved ones, it’s no wonder the holiday season is referred to as “hustle and bustle.” We’re also bombarded with messages telling us that this is supposed to be a joyous season, full of love, laughter and light. But what do we do when the stress or sadness creeps in? The key is to plan ahead. These tips can help you tailor a game plan for making your holiday season the best it can be. • Stick to a set budget. Lack of money is one of the most frequent causes of stress during the holidays. Parents, it is okay to tell your child that a specific toy costs too much.

Moody’s family has served the commuMoody greeted the crowd and shook all nity for years and her local roots run deep. of their hands, thanking them for taking Her grandfather served in the state leg- time to attend the ceremony and pointed islature and was a judge in the Thirteenth to the crowd singling out people like her Judicial Circuit Court, her father is a fed- dentist and a cheer coach that spent their eral judge, her brother is a lawyer and she lives supporting her and teaching her attributes much of her determination important life lessons. to watching her mother pursue her law She joked that she learned about justice degree while raising her family. in the living room of Commissioner Mike Her mother, Carol, was also at the event Sparkman’s house. She said when she and and said that at a very young age Moody her siblings were children and had done showed a passion for public service. something wrong they were brought in “She was a great organizer, she always one at a time and questioned, teaching organized her sister and brother and me her due process and justice well before she to do almost anything she asked us to do,” ever considered becoming a judge. she said. “And then we thanked her for the opportunity to do it. She shows great leadership skills. But we couldn’t be prouder of Ashley for all of her hard work in accomplishing this goal. Ashley, we are incredibly proud of you.” She reminded her daughter to always remember her roots and to never forget that she was Plant City royalty — Moody was crowned Strawberry Queen in 1993. Moody thanked everyone for continuing to show her support. She said regardless of political affiliation Plant City always had her back and the lessons she learned here she has carried with her throughout her entire life. Vice Mayor Nate Kilton said Moody was tenacious, steadfast and strong and a fantastic wife and mother. Listing characteristics that he felt represented Moody, Kilton said she embodies the qualities that Breanne Williams make Plant City so unique. “We know that you’re going to do what’s Ashley Moody was joined by her husband, right, even when people aren’t looking,” mother, brother and Mayor Rick Lott for the ceremony. Kilton said.

• Share the load. Delegate certain tasks or use the time to spend with family while sharing tasks like cooking, wrapping gifts and decorating. • Set boundaries. Do not overbook yourself. It is okay to decline events that are not important to you; this leaves time for you to attend the events most meaningful to you. • Be realistic. There is no such thing as the perfect holiday. Family problems do not disappear just because it is a holiday. Plan ahead for situations, and consider taking alcohol, which is a depressant, out of the celebration. Focus on traditions that make holidays special for you and your loved ones.

• Take care of yourself by getting enough sleep and sticking to an exercise schedule or finding ways to become more active. Make sure you are eating healthy foods. It is okay to eat something special; just have a small portion. Eat a healthy snack before a party, and choose to eat less at the event. • Give yourself a nonfood reward (like a new item of clothing, music download or reading time) for if you follow through with your healthy lifestyle plan during the holidays. • Holidays can trigger depression for those who may be dealing with the loss of a loved one or a relationship that has ended. Get support if you need it; most people need treatment to get better. After the holidays: • To boost your chance of keeping your New Year’s resolution, lay out realistic steps for the months ahead. For example, instead of joining a gym, start a vigorous walking program first. It’s free, and you can do it anywhere. If you have a busy schedule, three 10-minute brisk walks offer the same cardio benefits as one 30-minute brisk walk. Break new goals into smaller, manageable pieces. Brisk walking not only reduces stress but also can lower your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes as much as running. Nelida Rivera is a registered nurse at the Florida Blue Center in Winter Haven where she teaches free health and wellness classes that are open to the public in addition to providing health coaching and assessments.

Planning in advance can help during the holidays: • Take some time to nurture yourself away from group activities. Meditate, practice

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Breanne Williams

Attorney General-elect Ashley Moody thanked the community and the city for their continued support over the years.

• Stay organized. Using an appointment book or list will help keep you on track for the tasks required and the events to attend.

relaxation breathing or go for a short walk.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

Rising through the ranks Taylor Johnson is making waves in Strawberry Crest’s JROTC program. She’s now its newest Lieutenant Colonel.

“She rose through the ranks, she came in green with eyes wide open and now she’s a top student, an academic warrior,” JROTC Instructor John Ingraham said. “She’s one of the rare cadets that has it all and does it all… She has a heart of gold, a heart of a champion.” BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Taylor Johnson’s dedication and determination have allowed her the honor of being Strawberry Crest High School’s JROTC’s second ever female Lieutenant Colonel. Ironically, Johnson first joined JROTC as a way to avoid having to take the HOPE class at SCHS. Her brother had gone through the program and she decided it was worth trying out. What she wasn’t expecting was to fall in love with the class. “It kind of was a shock, but I really fell in love with the program,” Johnson said. “I learned all types of leadership skills and became a confident public speaker. I’ve also built friend-

ships and became more involved with school. Getting involved here helped me excel in multiple aspects of school outside of just the program.” On top of her extensive list of leadership positions in JROTC Johnson is also team captain for the varsity cross country and track teams, team captain for Chargerthon, a member of National Honor Society, president of the National Technical Honor Society and treasurer of Impact Club. Johnson dual enrolls at HCC and plans to attend the University of North Georgia with the goal to become a Corps Cadet. Johnson has been breaking ceilings throughout her high school career. In addition to being the second female ever promoted to Lieutenant Colonel at SCHS, she

also holds two school records for the track team. She was also the first female at Crest to be on the male drill team. JROTC taught her that giving less than her all was simply not on the table and soon she found herself breaking out of her shell and tackling leadership positions that seemed far out of her league years prior. “Johnson is great with working with people,” Destiny Cattery, fellow JROTC member, said. “She’s a leader, but she makes sure we know how much she cares and supports us. She’s very organized and no matter what she never stops.” Times are changing and Johnson said she fully expects to see many more women taking on leadership roles throughout

JROTC programs nationwide. said she never would have been At SCHS she said she was lucky able to have the opportunities enough to never have felt like she’s had. When stress inevitashe was different or tackling an bly comes she’s learned to have a unobtainable goal due to her sex. strong team at her back to ensure “Females really are getting they get through it and come out more involved in the program,” even stronger on the other side. Johnson said. “People I think used to look at the program and think that it was inherently masculine, that it wasn’t for females. But that’s changing. I never really looked at it as a female to male thing. You become a leader if you participate in a lot of things if you prove you can take charge and be the support and leader your team needs. Whether you’re female or male, those qualities don’t Courtesy of John Ingraham change.” Everything relies on teamwork Johnson is only the second and without her group of sup- female in Strawberry Crest hisportive peers and mentors, she tory to be promoted to Lieutenant Colonel.

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE

PCPD detective’s toy drive

Did you take the Observer with you on vacation? Send your pictures to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com to be featured.

Michael Bard rounded up more than 1,000 toys to deliver to children affected by Hurricane Michael with help from the community. Courtesy of Michael Bard Officers with the Panama City Beach Police Department posed with some of the donated toys and Bard and Davis.

food drive or maybe collecting clothes for those in need. Then his family was faced with unexpected news. Bard has a seven-year-old daughter and his wife was five months pregnant with their second child when they suddenly lost the baby. It was a loss Bard said he will carry with him, but he knew then what he wanted to do. He would bring Christmas to the many children having to essentially start over. “Typically when you see things like that, destruction on that level, you see the worst in people and the best in people,” Bard said. “A pack of water or a bag of chips means the world to them. People are so appreciative of the help they got. It’s our job to help in whatever way we can. I can’t imagine those kids this Christmas. I know many of them are believing they aren’t going to have one. Hopefully, this will help change that.” He joked his house looked like “Toys R Us” had given up in his yard. Everything from bicycles to new Disney action figures were overflowing into his lawn. Matthew Davis, a fishing buddy that has known Bard for years, partnered with him in the endeavor and agreed to take the trip north with him. “I’m just along for the ride,” Davis said. “Some people really came through with some ridiculous stuff. Some of these are $100 toys, some are $30, they’re all top-quality stuff. There are a lot of kids that are going to have a great Christmas this year.” The men left Plant City around 3 a.m. Monday morning and caught the awaiting officers by surprise when they began unloading the massive quantities of gifts. Once everything was dropped off they turned around and began the journey home knowing hundreds of children’s Christmases were saved thanks to the generosity of the community and the determination of one caring officer.

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For 10 days he provided aid to the community and when it was through his life was forever changed. “I’ve been through a lot of hurricanes and that was literally the most humbling experience,” Bard said. “The damage, the destruction, I’ve not seen anything like it. We got sent back early and I wanted to do something to help. Eventually, I came up with the toy drive.” Bard’s Reel Insane Fishing and Outfitters company connected him to much of the local fishing industry and, between those partnerships and his fellow officers at PCPD, he was convinced he’d be able to collect enough toys to make “some sort of impact” in the lives near the gulf. He took a long shot and set his goal at 1,000 toys, which would all need to be gathered in the span of three weeks. Little did he know the community would be rallying behind him in force. Thanks to the assistance of businesses like Davis Custom Trailers, Quality Septic, Sonny’s BBQ in Lakeland, Sunbelt Rentals, Power Source Marine, Universal Tire and Auto, CertiPay in Winter Haven and Ron Jon’s Property Management, Bard was able to have well over the 1,000-toy goal collected in a short period of time. The box outside his office at PCPD was filled to capacity and soon the challenge came to have the items all fit in the truck and trailer for the long trip north. The toys were taken to the Panama City Beach Police Department who told Bard they would use them for a Santa Run planned close to Christmas. The toys will be distributed to families in need throughout the area to ensure local children don’t miss out on a Christmas because of the storm. After working hands-on in the community following Hurricane Michael, Bard was determined to help in any way he could. He batted around doing a

813-986-1266

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

Understanding consciousness A new art exhibition is aiming to showcase the perceptions and stories of marginalized communities and to potentially lead to a better understanding of the world in which we all reside. Courtesy of Shelby Baerwalde

Right: Baerwalde’s drawing is the promotional image for the event.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

An art exhibition focused on telling the stories of marginalized communities and on offering a unique perspective will soon be coming to Plant City. Titled, “Periphery: An Exhibition,” the show will be held at the Bing Rooming House Museum, 205 Allen St., on Jan. 25 and Jan. 26. The show is spearheaded by Plant City artists Clay Hollenkamp of Join the Circus Productions and Shelby Baerwalde of Miel Arts. “The ability to create opportunities for other artists is so important,” Hollenkamp said. “That’s why we were so determined to create this opportunity for people that don’t want to drive across the Bay for an exhibition. The Bing house is five miles from anywhere in Plant City.” Hollenkamp said groups like the Arts Council of Plant City and the East Hillsborough Art Guild have brought some amazing events and artwork to town

over the years, but that there never seemed to be a serious push to begin hosting regular exhibitions in town. Hopefully with Hollenkamp’s and Baerwalde’s passion that will soon change, and Hollenkamp said the goal is to “keep the momentum going.” “Exhibitions give people time to stand in front of a piece of art and really take part in it,” Baerwalde said. “The goal is to bring the artists to the event so they can stand by and really engage with the public and discuss their work. Our goal is to really have an event that makes people stop and consider a viewpoint they may not have encountered before, to perhaps shift perceptions.” “I think it’s important to understand what other people are going through, to have compassion for other people,” Hollenkamp said. “Art is the perfect outlet for that kind of conversation. We aren’t pushing any kind of political agenda or one single viewpoint. We want local artists to submit the work that encompasses their perception, whatever that may be.”

The work will be evaluated and judged by two guest judges, artist and USF art instructor Jason Pinckard and artist Jacob Troyli. Any 2D or 3D art is accepted as long as it shares a story. They will select Best in Show and two honorable mentions, which will come with cash prizes. Hollenkamp said the art should not just “be beautiful,” but have a deeper meaning behind the showcased skill. Too often he Clay Hollenkamp and Shelby Baerwalde are hosting an exhibition in said Plant City showcases sce- January right here in Plant City. nic paintings or a portrait of a strawberry. He hopes this exhi- to Tampa or St. Petersburg to take bition will help “tastefully push part in this type of art.” the boundaries of what can be There will be an open recepfound at other exhibitions in tion on Jan. 25 that will include FOR MORE INFORMATION Plant City.” live music and other forms of “If it’s a painting of a straw- entertainment as well as light Email: peripheryart2018@gmail.com berry, I would love for it to be a refreshments. The exhibition will strawberry that also has a story, remain open the following day as Facebook: that shows emotion and shows well so those who may have other PeripheryArt2018 or a unique perspective,” Hollen- conflicts will still have a chance facebook.com/Peripheryart2018 kamp said. “We’re reaching out to experience the artwork. to local artists for them to share The deadline to register is Jan. their message right here in a local 16 and Baerwalde and Hollenexhibition. We need more Plant kamp are hoping to have a wide City exhibitions so not only our variety of art showcased at the artists but also our community exhibit. Artists can submit up to doesn’t have to constantly drive three pieces.

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DECEMBER 20, 2018

SPORTS

Taylyn Strickland started the season on a scoring tear. See Page 10

Sidelines New FHSAA football classifications announced The FHSAA announced Dec. 14 the new school classifications for the 2019 and 2020 football seasons, which will be finalized next month at a time to be announced. Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest are projected to move into Class 7A, Region 1, District 7 for the two upcoming seasons. Bloomingdale High School also joins the Plant Cityarea schools in the move but Tampa Bay Tech and East Bay have been moved to 7A-District 8 with Armwood and Wiregrass Ranch, and Lennard has moved up to Class 8A in District 8 with Newsome, Haines City and Ridge Community. The newly announced 7ADistrict 7 would also include 2018 7A state champion Lakeland and 2018 playoff qualifier Kathleen. Star running back Demarkcus Bowman led the Dreadnaughts to a perfect 15-0 record for the season, capped by a state title win against St. Thomas Aquinas last week. Kathleen, which posted a 6-5 record (2-1 district) in 2018, made it to the second round of the playoffs but couldn't get past Lakeland.

Hoops teams busy over holiday break Though many sports teams got a two-week holiday vacation after Dec. 14, several basketball squads are going to be back on the court well before the Jan. 8, 2019 return date. The Plant City High School boys have two tournaments on tap to close out December, starting with this week’s Capital City Shootout at Tallahassee Community College before competing in next week’s Kingdom of the Sun tournament at Vanguard High School through Dec. 30. The PCHS girls are getting ready for the Jaguar Holiday Tournament, hosted by Academy of the Holy Names in Tampa from Dec. 27-29. Strawberry Crest’s boys are booked for this week’s Jesuit Invitational as well as the Clearwater Shootout for the first weekend of 2019.

Area football players shine at East-West Game The best football players in Hillsborough County took to the field once again for the 2018 EastWest All-Star Game on Dec. 15, and two Plant City-area players took home MVP awards for the East team. Plant City quarterback Braxton Plunk was named offensive MVP for leading the East’s offense in a 44-0 win over the West and flashed his dual-threat ability with a 25-yard rushing touchdown. Strawberry Crest’s Josh Young, a human Swiss Army knife for the Chargers, was named defensive MVP for a solid game highlighted by a 31-yard pick six.

File Photo

Durant football, baseball and softball players come together every year to make Christmas more special for hundreds of kids.

LOCAL ATHLETES IN CHRISTMAS SPIRIT Sports teams from area schools are giving back to the community for Christmas. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

very year, athletes from the Plant City area get in the holiday spirit by putting others’ needs before their own. Several high school teams are coming together this week to help families, foster children and more have a brighter, merrier Christmas by giving them food and fun for free. It’s more than just a way to give back to the community, too. “We spend so much time of our own fundraising and asking for help, I try to help (the players) understand we can go out and help other people just like we’re asking people to help us through our golf tournament and other fundraisers,” Strawberry Crest baseball coach Eric Beattie said. The Chargers’ baseball and softball teams traditionally like to play not-so-Secret Santa for local families and students each

December. This year, the softball team is buying gifts and throwing a party for a classmate and the baseball team hosted a dinner and bought gifts for two families in neighboring Bailey Elementary’s network. “Obviously it’s great to see the kids get excited about it. It’s fun for our players,” Beattie said. “They recognize not everyone as blessed as they are. I encourage players to use their own earned money to buy gifts. A lot of them take pride in it. Even if they only have $30 or $40 they’ll take $10 or $15 of their own money and buy gifts for them. It’s just as exciting for our players as it is for the kids getting the gifts.” Durant athletes are also feeling the Christmas spirit. The football, baseball and softball teams hosted a big dinner party last year for kids in Camelot Foster Group’s network and enjoyed it so much they hosted another event for the kids Tuesday night. “Seeing our kids interacting with their kids is pretty fun,” Durant baseball coach Butch Valdes said. “It’s enjoyable spending time with all the groups together and letting the kids get an oppor-

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

tunity to put a smile on their faces.” This year, the players, coaches and families partnered with Cater Tampa and Ed Morse Cadillac to celebrate with 250 kids, each of whom got five gifts. Cougar Nation stepped up to the plate when it came to buying the gifts. The baseball and softball teams turned it into team bonding experiences, too: the boys spent a Saturday shopping at Target together and the girls had a wrapping party last week to get the hundreds of gifts ready to go. The football team and their families also pitched in to do some shopping. Coach Wesley Wyatt said they went out of their way to get name-brand toys and clothFile Photo ing, even Nike shoes, for the kids. The entire baseball and softball Durant’s Christmas party for foster teams came out for the event and children started in 2017 and is now Wyatt said the football team’s an annual event. turnout this year exceeded last year’s. Once the athletes get there and interact with the kids, Wyatt said, they quickly learn not to take their blessings for granted.

JUSTIN KLINE

Athletes learning value of humility Christmas events helped Plant Cityarea athletes count their blessings and help others.

always love hearing about local athletes giving back to the community, especially around this time of year. We’ve got plenty of kids who recently committed to making hundreds of lives a little better this week

and, talking to coaches, it sounds like they learned the right lesson from it all. Many of us could benefit from a reality check every so often. So many of us take things for granted in life that we often don’t know what we’ve got until it’s gone. Not everyone’s so fortunate. It’s always good to do as these athletes, coaches and families do by helping people who need it at any time of year. The important thing to consider, though, is

why we donate our time, money, services or whatever we have. No one should do it just to make those social media posts with a small carousel of photos and a lengthy, inspirational caption so other folks can smash those “like” buttons. Humility is not a bragging right. If you’re going to do as our teams have done, do it for the people you’re helping. Do it because you saw a need and had the means to fulfill it. Do it because you believe if you

were in those shoes, you’d want someone to show you the same kindness. Treat others the way you’d want to be treated, you know? So it’s great to hear that learning about these families and children in need opened our kids’ eyes to a world they’ve never lived in and made them want to go the extra mile to help. That’s what raising them the right way looks like. That’s how you build good citizens. That’s what makes Plant City a good place to live.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

SPONSORED BY SPORT CLIPS

Taylyn Strickland The Plant City Raiders headed into the winter break with a 4-2-1 (2-1-1 district) record thanks in part to the hot foot of Taylyn Strickland. Strickland, a junior, leads the team with seven goals scored and has helped the offense outscore opponents, 18-5. You’ve had a great start to the season. How are things going for the team, in your opinion? I think we’re doing pretty good. I think that we have potential to go far in our district if we keep working hard. What are your goals for the season? I want to get better as a player, connect with my teammates more, and score a lot more goals. What’s your favorite thing about playing with this group of girls? I just love the love and the fun we have together. I love our car rides. We listen to music and jam, it hypes us up and it’s super fun. How long have you been playing soccer? Since I was 4 years old.

What advice would you give to a freshman on the team? Be prepared to work really hard and be able to take constructive criticism. That’s a big part. They’re not trying to ruin your game. They’re trying to help you get better.

Know someone who deserves an Athlete of the Week feature? Email Justin Kline at JKline@ plantcityobserver.com by the Friday before the next issue.

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What made you want to keep playing it for so long? I just got really good at it and I have a passion for it. I always want to be my best and try my hardest. I feel like it’s like my superpower.

Are there any players you look up to and try to play like? Yes, her name is Mia Hamm. She was my favorite soccer player growing up. I have all her movies, I used to watch all the things about her and wish to go to camp with her. That was my idol.

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

We asked: What’s your Christmas tradition?

“We always open one gift on Christmas eve and that one gift is always a set of pajamas. I’m really looking forward to it this year.”

“Noche Buena. It’s a Christmas Eve gathering. We make Christmas two days instead of one.”

“Going to my grandma’s because we’re able to get the whole family together for Christmas Eve.”

— Bruce Wills, 20

— Andrea Adkins, 29

— Emmy Shouse, 17

“I wake up way too early every morning, wake up my mom and dad and we eat cinnamon rolls.”

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— Luke Clark, 19

— Kenny Peace, 69

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Jesse Dalton Johns

dedicated helping families create a W E ’ RER. PR OU D TO Register, SERVE our community Reverend Wallace James E.we’re Kelly, 95, ofto Plant unique that truly personal, compassionate 1896. 97, ofwith Plant City, born on Aug.care since City passed awayand onmeaningful Wednes- memorial Jesse Dalton Johns, 22, of Plant celebrates As your Dignity Memorialbeen professionals, 14, 1921, has victoriously day, Dec. 12, 2018. the life it represents. City, born in Plant City on April called home >on100% Dec.Service 10, 2018. were Plan held on 24, 1996, entered into eternal GuaranteeServices > National Transferability Travel The Compassion > Bereavement Expressions of condolence at Assistance Wednesday,> Dec. 19 at Wells Helpline® rest on Dec. 12, 2018. HopewellFuneral.com. Memorial. Burial was held in Expressions of condolence at Florida National Cemetery. HopewellFuneral.com. Condolences may be offered Proudly supportingatthe Plant City Strawberry Festival. www.wellsmemorial.com. ®

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Jack Nadelman Jack Nadelman, 94, a resident of Plant City, passed from this world peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018. Jack is survived by Rita, his wife of 72 years. Jack was drafted into the US Army serving in WWII and was a German prisoner. Arrangements have been entrusted to Woodlawn Funeral Home in Gotha. Celebration of Life service was held Friday, Dec. 14, 2018. Condolences may be offered at www.woodlawnfuneralhomegotha.com.

Humberto Duarte Rosales Humberto Duarte Rosales, 49, of Plant City, passed away on Dec. 8, 2018. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

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Martha Eleanor Wright, 82, of Brandon, born in Elba, Alabama on Aug. 27, 1936, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 12, 2018. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Mary Louise Messick, 84, of Plant City, passed away on Dec. 13, 2018. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

Charles Richard Campbell Charles Richard Campbell, 78, of Lakeland, passed away on Friday, Dec. 7,2018. He was born in Banner Elk, North Carolina on Aug. 28, 1940. He moved to Florida from Tennessee in 1952. He was a long time employee and retired from TECO. He is survived by his wife, Gayle Campbell, sons: Tim Campbell (Judy), Chris Campbell (Lori), Michael Bassett (Odalis); daughters: Donna Hagen (William), Vicki Turner (Fred), and Michelle Campbell (Craig), nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Graveside services were held on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018 at Oaklawn Cemetery (East) in Plant City, Florida. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Harold Rister Harold Rister, 89, of Mulberry, born in Greenup County, Kentucky on Sept. 1, 1929, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 11, 2018.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

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Delma Bennett Graves

Delma Bennett Graves, 86, of Plant City, born on Nov. 8, 1932 in Lenox, Georgia, passed away Friday, Dec. 14. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Barbara Ann Rorrer, 74 of WELLSMEMORIAL.COM WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Plant City, passed away Dec. HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM 13, 2018. The family will receive Wells MeMorial & event Center Janet Ann Bernardi Wells MeMorial & event Center friends at 9:30 a.m., Thursday, PlanT CiTy Wells MeMorial & event Center we’re dedicated to helping families create a WE’R E P RO UD TO S E RV E our community PlanT CiTy we’re dedicated to helping families create a WE’R E PR OU D TO SERVE our community Dec.W 20, 2018, Haught Funeral Dennis Allen Filing unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. PlanT CiTy 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com we’re dedicated to helping families create a E ’ RE PRO UD TO SERVE our community Mary Ann Henry unique andMemorial meaningful memorial that truly celebrates the life it represents. with personal, compassionate care since 1896. Ada Mae Rogers Home, 708 W Dr.compassionate MLK Jr. Blvd., As your Dignity professionals, 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, care since 1896. 813-752-1111 As WellsMemorial.com we’re dedicated to helping families create a our community celebrates the life it represents. Janet Ann Bernardi, 79, passed yourHenry, Dignity75, Memorial professionals, Plant a funeral Mary Ann Dennis Allen Filing, passed celebrates thepassed life it represents. AsCity, your with Dignity Memorialtoprofessionals, unique and meaningful memorial that truly ate care since 1896. > 100%64, Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1 10/27/15 follow at 10:30 a.m. Final interaway on Nov. 24, 2018. away on Nov. 17, 2018. away on Dec. 5, 2018. > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability celebrates the life it represents. professionals, Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® > > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1 10/27/15 10:42 AM M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1 10/27/15> 10:42 AM Compassion Helpline® Bereavement Travel Assistance The > ment will also follow at 1:30 She was born in Manchester, He was born in Akron, Ohio on She was born in Newark, New Ada Mae Rogers, 85, passed Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement Guarantee > National Plan Transferability p.m., Florida National CemNew Hampshire on Nov. 3, 1943. Aug. 18, 1954. Jersey on Oct. 13, 1939. away on Nov. 30, Compassion 2018. Travel Assistance > The Helpline® etery, Bushnell, FL. Condolences may be offered Condolences may be offered Condolences may be offered She was born in Brooklyn, New Proudly supportingatthewww.wellsmemorial.com. Plant City Strawberry Festival. Online condolences may at www.wellsmemorial.com. at www.wellsmemorial.com. York on Jan.19, 1933. ProudlyFestival. supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry be left for the family at www. Condolences may be offered upportingatthewww.wellsmemorial.com. Plant City Strawberry Festival. haught.care.

is all about.

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WELLSMEMORIAL.COM

lls MeMorial & event Center FRESHEST

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is all about.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

OBITUARIES

YOUR CALENDAR THURSDAY, DEC. 20

celebrates the life it represents.

Theresa Cecelia Plan Rodriguez, 87, ervice Guarantee > National Transferability Martin Garcia Avalos, 65, of passed away on Oct. 22, 2018.Helpline® ment Travel Assistance > The Compassion Dover, passed away on Dec. 15,

She was born in Connecticut on 2018. Nov. 4, 1930. The family will receive friends Condolences may be offered Friday, Dec. 21, 2018 from 11:00 oudly supportingatthewww.wellsmemorial.com. Plant City Strawberry Festival. a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 p.m. WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

Wells MeMorial event Center ALL& OBITUARIES PlanT CiTy

ARE SUBMITTED

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com AND EDITED BY

FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

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HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM 10/27/15 10:42 AM

HOLIDAY GARDEN STROLL 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Plant City Commons Community Garden Holiday Garden Stroll is officially underway. The event will run until Dec. 27. Stroll through the gardens, 2001 E. Cherry St., at your leisure and take in the lights and sights. COMMUNITY MEETING FOR TRANSPORTATION TAX IMPLICATIONS FOR PLANT CITY 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 108 S. Warnell St. The meeting will clarify the details of the tax proposal that passed.

BLUEGRASS NIGHT 6:33 to 8:33 p.m. Bluegrass Nights at Krazy Kup feature a new local area artist every third Thursday of the month. This month enjoy music from Trinity River Band. Tickets are $15 and available in house or on Eventbrite.

7 to 8:30 p.m. The Plant City Commons Community Garden is hosting a special event at the garden, 2001 E. Cherry St., for local families to come meet Santa and take part in children’s craft activities. Check out plantcitycommunitygarden.com for more holiday events.

FRIDAY, DEC. 21

SUNDAY, DEC. 23

CHRISTMAS SING-A-LONG 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Come out to Krazy Kup, 101 E J Arden Mays Blvd., and sing along to some Christmas classics with Katie Faith Boggs, Benji Padgett, and Kristen Hamrick.

SPECIAL MUSIC AND PREACHING 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Harmony Baptist Church, 6008 W Knights Griffin Road, is hosting special praise, worship and preaching in old-fashioned services.

SATURDAY, DEC. 22

SANTA AND CHILDREN’S CRAFTS

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

Martin Garcia Theresa Cecelia we’re dedicated to helping families create a Avalos Rodriguez unique and meaningful memorial that truly

our community passionate care since 1896. morial professionals, S E RVE

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FORECAST THURSDAY, DEC. 20

Send your photo submissions to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@PlantCityObserver. com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature. Megan Perez wins this week’s I Love Plant City photo contest. Plant City residents love taking photos with the J. Seward Johnson sculptures every year, and Megan Perez is one of the latest to catch some “downtown shenanigans” in the act with her camera. The photo was shared recently by Instagramers of Plant City.

FRIDAY, DEC. 21 High: 64 Low: 50 Chance of rain: 70%

s ear 32 y s s e usin In B

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Dec. 20

7:15a

5:37p

Friday, Dec. 21

7:15a

5:37p

Saturday, Dec. 22

7:16a

5:38p

Sunday, Dec. 23

7:16a

5:38p

Monday, Dec. 24

7:16a

5:39p

Tuesday, Dec. 25

7:17a

5:39p

Wednesday, Dec. 26

7:17a

5:40p

High: 63 Low: 42 Chance of rain: 10%

Jan. 5 New

SUNDAY, DEC. 23

Monday, Dec. 10

High: 69 Low: 47 Chance of rain: 0%

Tuesday, Dec. 11 0.00

Shipping point: Central Florida $15.95 to $17.95

SUNRISE / SUNSET

SATURDAY, DEC. 22

TOMATOES

Instagram

ONLINE

High: 73 Low: 62 Chance of rain: 100%

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

Jan. 10 First

Jan. 1 Last

Dec. 22 Full

0.00

Wednesday, Dec. 12

0.00

Thursday, Dec. 13 0.00 Friday, Dec. 14

0.62

Saturday, Dec. 15 0.15 0.00

Sunday, Dec. 16 YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2018 25.10 in.

2018 1.34 in.

2017 29.98 in.

2017 0.08 in.

GOLD & SILVER

Diamonds & Precious Gems,

285826 287516-1

813.754.2360 | 1705 Jim Redman Pkwy. Plant City, 33563

1 Knock over 7 Gilligan’s place 13 ___ Aviv, Israel 16 Sense for the gifted 19 Unlike digital watches 20 Beer in a bar, sometimes 21 Encircle 23 Start digging (Pt. 1) 26 Clerical leave 27 Physical likeness 28 Yule decoration 29 Faucets 30 Be predisposed 32 Eye glass

34 Make larger 36 Saturn’s wife 39 Bust a joint? 41 Become puddles 43 Fiery intensity 47 Uh-uhs and nopes 49 Coriander kin 52 Way less good-looking 55 “So, there you ___” 56 Start digging (Pt. 2) 60 Collective bargaining side 61 Mr. Cornell of the university 62 Cayuse strap 63 “Thanks ___!”

64 Glower 65 No longer in a bear trap 66 Praises loudly 68 “I Saw ___ Standing There” 69 Be down with something 71 Noted violin type, cut 74 Langley, Va. spy org. 75 Wordy music genre 78 Deed holder 80 It features a twist 82 Try to grab off a shelf 84 Piedmont province 87 Mideast gulf

89 Topflight 90 Arise 91 Start digging (Pt. 3) 96 Give a BB gun to 97 Word with book or zoo 98 Plant killer 99 Tip bills, often 100 Printer’s proof, cut 102 Landed lightly 104 Crude abodes 106 67.5 degrees, directionally 107 It has a negative charge 110 Jackson 5 guitarist 113 Drift from town to

50 Menswear options 51 Protected wading bird 53 Foolish behavior 54 Feeling of boredom 57 Wedding acquisition 58 Emperor called “Little Greek” 59 Isn’t anymore 65 Prepare for a first flight, as a bird 67 Deck with symbols 70 Ridiculously silly 72 Popped up 73 Major contributor 75 Wisconsin city DOWN 76 Mental keenness 1 Broken by a dude? 77 Adage or motto 2 Black gem 78 Heating option 3 Glass section 79 Raccoonlike carnivore 4 Kilt crease 5 Hang outside a store, e.g. 81 Stallion’s greeting 6 Commonly cracked item 83 Off-the-wall answer 84 Not nigh 7 SALT missile 85 Like the Mohave floor 8 Sandbank formation 86 Worker just for the 9 Gargantuan holidays 10 Go-ahead 88 Montreal’s Christmas 11 “Improved” go-with 92 Russian vodka brand 12 “Darn!” 93 Court issuance 13 Jacket material 94 Port-au-Prince mon14 Goofed etary unit 15 Hawaiian wear 95 Striped comics canine? 16 Volcano in Italy 101 Cape Town monies 17 Bargain hunt 18 Darlings in some families 103 Sensation of excitement 22 Noted fur capitalist 105 Slender 24 Concealing 108 Prefix with state 25 Seafood catcher 31 Indian restaurant bread 109 Bumps out of office 111 Related product 33 Completely closed 112 Eight on a team 35 Base of poi 114 Bridge defenders 36 Forceful, forward flow 115 Gross and sticky 37 Leap like a feline 116 Bat Masterson weapon 38 Soon-to-be ex-college 117 Mining finds student 119 Blinkers 40 More ominous and 121 Beards growing in fields serious 42 Jelly thickener in a lab 123 Makes an exit 124 Individual, as a Ranger? 44 Author Roald 125 Bounds 45 Snack cookie choice 127 Belief system suffix 46 Vacation “activity,” 128 Dip bread, e.g. ironically 129 Hasty retreat 48 White blanket on the road

CELEBRITY CIPHER

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“BPO JLN PZRLC, FXR BPO’CL LMNULC OXHOSSLHHKOZ FXR BPO TPXRLC TUB, PC BPO’CL HOSSLHHKOZ FXR BPO TPXRLC TUB.”

– LNUFX SPLX

“H PYYDE AJ NDEYPEAXGWD XO NEXJDE YPE OPADPGD H’BD LPEUDS LHRC XO XG XWRPE PE OPADPGD LCP CXO SHDS.” – MHXA GDDOPG Puzzle Two Clue: R equals T

ACROSS

town 115 Symbol on a screen 118 In the raw 120 Battery type, briefly 122 Score 2 on a par-4, e.g. 126 Start digging (Pt. 4) 130 Israeli parliament 131 Carried by the wind 132 Make it to an event 133 “Certainly!” 134 Mr. go-with 135 Uses cash 136 Housekeeper’s busywork

DRY RUN by Timothy B. Parker

Puzzle One Clue: J equals G

CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

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

12-20-18

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

PlantCityObserver.com

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