12.6.18 PLCO by Plant City Observer

PLANT CITY

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 6, NO. 23

FREE

•

Vikings go hiking SEE PAGE 3 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

The long and winding road Courtesy Photo

FDOT plans to have Alexander Street completed in the spring of 2019.

FDOT assures Alexander Street construction will not interfere with the Florida Strawberry Festival. SEE PAGE 9

YOUR TOWN

Breanne Williams

Nativities around the world

VETERANS H NORED THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Breanne Williams

Dakota, who has been volunteering with the Legion for two years, spent the weekend placing wreaths on the graves of local veterans.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 26 in Plant City spends hours each year prepping and placing close to 900 Christmas wreaths on the graves of local veterans.

SEE PAGE 12

or the past four years the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 26 in Plant City has spent countless hours prepping hundreds of Christmas wreaths and slowly combing through cemeteries to place them on the graves of local veterans. Pam McGregor, president of the Legion, said the group is deeply passionate about giving back and

supporting veterans. Honoring the sacrifice they gave is the foundation of every project the Legion undertakes. “Loyalty, dedication and remembrance and honor. I don’t really know just one word to describe why we do this,” McGregor said. “I mean look at what they gave to us. Sure, we spend a lot of hours getting these ready...

Christmas time is here Breanne Williams.

The Lights of Love event kicks off Christmas for Plant City as the holiday lights and tree are lit up by Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Plant City is rolling out the red carpet for the holiday season with a calendar filled with non-stop events for residents of all ages. SEE PAGE 8

St. Clement Catholic Church, 1104 N Alexander St., has kicked off its Nativities Around the World event. This is the third year the exhibit has been on display and it features more than 500 manger scenes from all over the world. The exhibit opened on Dec. 1 and will run through Jan. 7. Admission is free and this year the church has added additional viewing hours from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The exhibit is rich in history and there is a special story behind every single piece. Attendees have the option to be accompanied by volunteers that will share the stories and add an advanced layer to the experience.

File photo

Christmas book sale underway Bruton Memorial Library is hosting its annual Christmas used book sale. The event began Nov. 30 and runs until New Year’s Day. The event helps local families take home gently used books for the perfect Christmas gift.

WH AT’S H APPENING

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

“The music scene is alive and well and I wanted to contribute. There is so much talent here and people are driving to Orlando, Clearwater and St. Pete to have a chance to record in a studio… I’ve gotten a lot of feedback from people saying how convenient it is to have us 15 minutes from their house.”

WEEK OF DECEMBER 6, 2018

Community meeting for transportation tax

— Kaylee Strickland, owner of Back Pocket Recording Studio

Strawberry Festival concert tickets on sale Thursday

BY THE NUMBERS

teens who participated in the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Teen Driver Challenge last week SEE PAGE 4

The Improvement League of Plant City will host a community meeting regarding the recently passed All for Transportation tax on December 20 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Bing Rooming House, 205 S. Allen St. All interested persons are invited to attend. The meeting will clarify the details of the tax proposal that passed and share information about transportation plans of HART, the Metropolitan Planning Organization and more. Plant City is set to receive $3 million per year from the tax, beginning in early 2019 and, according to the Improvement League, a list of projects for Plant City is needed by March 2019.

EHHS 2018 Candlelight Tour

life-size sculptures placed around Plant City through March SEE PAGE 5

870

wreaths placed on the graves of local veterans in 2018 by the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 26 SEE PAGE 12 File photo

The new and improved grandstands were a hit with Florida Strawberry Festival concertgoers at the 2018 festival.

tournament brackets in the UYFL championship series. The Plant City Dolphins are competing in four of them

also be purchased for $8 at the same time. Tickets can be bought online at flstrawberryfestival.com, over the phone at 813-754-1996 or in-person at the Amscot Main Ticket Office, 2209 W. Oak Ave. The theme of the 2019 festival is “It’s a Hit!” and it will run from Feb. 28 through March 10, 2019.

an’t wait to see Steven Tyler, Willie Nelson and other Florida Strawberry Festival headliners? Today is your first chance to make it happen. The Florida Strawberry Festival announced ticket sales for its 2019 headline shows began this morning at 8 a.m. and that discounted admission tickets can

SEE PAGE 13

The East Hillsborough Historical Society invites Plant City to its 2018 Candlelight Tour. The Dec. 14 event is meant to highlight Plant City’s historic residential district with a candle-lit walk from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Tour stops include the 1914 PCHS museum, the Sparkman House Luxury Bed & Breakfast and more. Dinner will be served at the Sparkman House and dessert at the McGlathery home. Sangria with Santa will be held at the Young home and punch will also be served at the 1914 museum. The EHHS asks anyone interested to RSVP online at ehhsoc.org/tour. php by Dec. 10. Tickets and maps can be picked up at the 1914 museum at 4:45 p.m. Dec. 14. For more information, call 813-757-9226 or email info@ehhsoc.org.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

VIKINGS

take over Medard Park A local Viking historic reenactment group partnered with park rangers from Medard Park to host a “Hiking with a Viking” event last Saturday. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

uests wandering through Edward Medard Park early Saturday morning may have paused in confusion when they heard a horn bugle ringing out through the woods, quickly followed by a string of shouts and the clash of swords meeting wooden shields. For a moment they may have shared the bewilderment of Claire Randall upon traveling back through time via the standing stones Craigh na Dun. But unlike Randall, visitors at Medard didn’t accidentally travel back to the past. Instead, the past came to 2018. A partnership between park rangers at Medard and Wyrd Brothers Production — a volunteer historical re-enactment group that focuses on the Viking age era — led to the inaugural “Hiking with a Viking” event. The 2018-2019 Hillsborough County Hiking Spree is underway and Medard decided to offer a historic twist on the event by teaming up with the Viking enthusiasts that have called the park home for the past several years. “As they were planning this year’s hiking spree they asked if we would be interested in partnering for the event,” Michelle Phillips, co-leader of the group, said. “We wanted to make it a fundraiser for the park as a way to give back so we made it $5 a person. They’ve been great and so wonderful to us. This is our home. We are here nearly every Saturday training and we’re just so happy to be able to give back.” The public interest took everyone by surprise. They raised the group limit to 45 and still had

Vicky Saunders

Tyler Donaway, aka Thord Alfgaerdhsson, helped lead the hike through the Singing Bluffs Trail.

Vicky Saunders

Michelle Phillips, Christine DeFeyter, Emily Cruz and Michelle Valentonis at the Viking tent.

to turn people away. The group, comprised of an even mix of children and adults, met at pavilion five at 9 a.m. Saturday morning where they were escorted by Park Ranger James to the Singing Bluffs Trail. While James shared the history of the park and discussed conservation practices two men emerged from the underbrush donned in tunics and carrying staffs and swords. Group leader Brent Feagans, aka Jarl Erik the Blood Axe, and Tyler Donaway, aka Thord Alfgaerdhsson, led the motley crew through the woods pairing historic anecdotes with environmental tales from Ranger James. Attendees were told they would simply have a Viking guide discuss their lifestyle. Instead, they were transported into a reenactment experience featuring hidden archers, Viking fishermen, a berserker, epic battles and more.

Vicky Saunders

Group leader Brent Feagans, aka Jarl Erik the Blood Axe, told stories of viking history as well as explained some of the misconceptions around the historic group.

“During the final battle, they were shocked, they froze right where they were,” Feagans said. “We had them surrounded by action. They took my cue and I told (Ranger) James to get them out of there. He acted his way out and they followed him while staring in amazement. They were awe inspired and giggling as they left the battle scene.” Feagans said the majority of the group stuck around for another half an hour talking to the Vikings and learning about everything from battle techniques to farming and weaving practices. They had endless questions and Feagans said if even one word that was uttered that day caused someone to head to Google to do some further research, he would consider it a success. Faithful Medard visitors have come to anticipate the antics of the group, which frequently hosts viking fitness training sessions on Saturday mornings. Comprised of nearly 60 members, the group is led by Feagans, who has been involved in history based reenactment groups for more than 20 years including Renaissance and medieval festivals and a pirate troupe. Though the sparing sessions are by far one of the most popular events by the group, Feagans said they have attracted members by the diverse skill set they routinely practice. The group delves into the rich and evolving research surrounding the time period and learn about everything from battle practices to shipbuilding and clothing. Some members come just to learn about one specific thing, but once they get to know the group they fall in love with the Viking family. Michelle Valentonis’ family began coming to the group when her son became interested. As the years have passed he has grown up, but their dedication hasn’t wavered. She said he is arranging

his college plans around being able to study close enough so he can continue to be involved with the group. “It’s a big family, it really is a community,” Valentonis said. “That’s the beauty of the group. It isn’t for any one type of person. It’s a family friendly group and everyone is welcome here. Our members bring their kids with them. We had a 19-month old at a Renaissance festival. We really support each other and even if my son stopped coming we still would. We love it.” Throughout the walk, the group aimed to impart some lasting knowledge of the lifestyle the Scandinavians used to live as well as to dispute some common misconceptions like the myth that Vikings wore horn hats or that they were a barbaric, hostile and savage people. The popularity of the Vikings TV series has led to a massive resurgence of interest across the world. New research continues to pour out and the group will delve ever deeper into the Viking world. Feagans said the park is already in talks with the group of offering another series of hikes in the new year. “Hopefully they’ll get out of their house and get outside more and visit the other parks that have hiking,” Feagans said. “Or come to Medard. It offers a lot of interesting things, fishing, 18-hole frisbee golf, groups like us, really anything you could think of. There are an abundance of outdoor activities in the Tampa Bay area, Hillsborough County and surrounding counties and it will go away if people don’t use it. I also hope the hike sparked interest in someone that attended. That they’ll go home and keep learning.”

Breanne Williams

Every twist and turn of the hike was filled with a new historic encounter.

Vicky Saunders

Christine DeFeyter practicing some traditional weaving at the tent set up for Saturday’s hike.

Anyone interested in getting more information about the group can visit the Wyrd Brothers Productions social media pages or head to wyrdbrothersproduction. org. All future events will be posted on Facebook. FOR MORE INFORMATION Email: wyrdbrothersproductions@gmail.com Call: 941-504-2775

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

PLANT CITY

TEENS LEARN TO CRUISE

Observer “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

Master Deputy Clint Leapley said he loves watching students that were shy and not confident at the beginning truly come into their own by the end of the session.

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editor / Sports Editor / Justin Kline JKline@PlantCityObserver.com

Photos by Breanne Williams

Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver. com

Some drivers struggled with the drills, knocking over cones or failing to brake in time.

HCSO held a Teen Driver Challenge Saturday where experienced deputies taught 20 teens how to become safe and advanced drivers. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Editorial Designer / Juan Alvarez

Deputy Jimmy Cook walked his group of teens through the upcoming challenge, giving them tips.

Ramer said one major benefit of or down the road and something the course is the students are driv- goes wrong,” Cook said. “I think ing their own cars, not standard the most helpful skills today are a vehicles from driver's ed. They are cross between the braking and the learning exactly how their personal evasive maneuver. Those are the vehicles respond in different situ- most important ones.” ations and thus walk away with a While some of the challenges personalized encounter and a real like the serpentine and figure eight understanding of exactly what test skill level, the other obstacles their cars can and cannot handle. could be the difference in respondRamer led the students through ing in time to save a life or not. All all of the classroom material cov- three instructors said the students ering everything from basic safety weren’t very talkative, but slowly instructions to more intense dis- grew in confidence as the day procussions around DUIs and other gressed and they realized they did common roadway crimes. Then have the potential to successfully he led them to a garage where they navigate the tough course. learned to give their car a check“It’s a mix of a lack of experiup, tackling upkeep like monitor- ence and a lack of confidence in This week’s Cipher answers ing the tire pressure, safety gaugesCelebrity their skills, ” Leapley said. “A lot of and even how to check the oil. these drivers, this is their first year Puzzle One Solution: Deputy Jimmy Cook and Master or two withoftheir cars and they’re “I don’t think I could think a single Deputy Clint Leapley take it from still learning what it can do.” thing that’s more isolating than being there, splitting the students up He said one student in his group famous.” – Lady Gaga and beginning to run them through was nearly shaking with nerves

than when they pulled into the facility. Some insurance companies also offer lower rates when the driver presents the certificate they receive for completing the course. Florida regularly is ranked as having some of the worst drivers in the nation and teens face some of the highest injury and fatality rates. In 2016, 2,433 teens in the U.S. from age 16 to 19 years old were killed and 292,742 were treated in hospitals for injuries from vehicle crashes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The group also found while teens were only 6.5% of the population they accounted for approximately $13.6 billion or 8.4% of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries. Across Florida, sheriffs departments are coming together to attempt to tackle those daunting statistics. By teaching kids simple, but essential skills, they hope to decrease the number of accidents and fatalities caused by a mere lack of experience behind the wheel. The plan is for HCSO to offer another program in the new year and Ramer said the classes have been filling up quickly. He encouraged anyone interested to follow HCSO’s social media and website to see when registration would open.

illsborough County Sheriff’s Office is taking steps to ensure local youth are prepared for anything they may come across while behind the wheel. Deputies host a Teen Driver Challenge approximately four times a year. Last Saturday, 20 teens rolled up in their personal cars to the Walter C. Heinrich Practical Training Site in Lithia to learn how to respond to issues like emergency braking, defensive driving and safely correcting the vehicle once drifting off-road. The course is part of the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) and was created in 2007 to help teens deal with a variety of unavoidable factors. Puzzlepad. Two Solution: “These skills are the things they obstacles on the training The at the beginning. She was conwon’t get at their driver's ed,” teenagers drive their cars through vincedof she wasn’t... going to be able “Women are a source energy. Deputy Jeff Ramer said. “These tight figure eights, a serpentine successfully complete Men become liketopeacocks with their the drills. are kids that have been driving for driving maneuver,feathers parallel parklaterare shearound.” was laughing as she up whenHours women a while, maybe they’ve got a year ing, off-road recovery, emergency completed another obstacle with– Bradley Cooper or two under their belt. Now we’re braking and more. out more than simple guidance adding advanced driving skills to The young drivers are told today from Leapley. week’s Sudoku answers their skill set. This challenge really was the day to ask anyThis questions Some students sign up because encompasses the things the kids they could think of, that nothing they genuinely desire to become may see if they come into a sticky was “stupid” or “too naive.” better drivers while others are situation on the road.” Cook said the one thing most only there at their parent’s insisThe program is free for teen driv- students overestimate is their real- tence. Regardless, they all walk ers in 38 counties across Florida istic reaction time. With the emer- away a more experienced driver and taught by sheriffs’ deputies gency breaking course, he gets in This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers that are licensed as commercial the vehicle with the student, tellPuzzle Oneinstructors. Solution: These ing them to bring their car up to driving school “I the don’t thinkthat I could think of aacertain singlespeed and not touch the are deputies train officers for the local departments and they than brakes until he says stop. Then they thing that’s more isolating being have hundreds of hours clocked have to famous.” – Ladyquickly Gaga brake and steer the behind the wheel. According to vehicle between one of two lanes Puzzle Two Solution: the FSA, more than 2,000 students of cones. participate a TDC course of each “I ... get into the car with them Whenever a driver made a mistake or doubted their ability, the deputies “Womeninare a source energy. year, with “the demand for course with because I really want them to push took time to walk them through the process and ensure them they were Men become like peacocks their participation often outweighing themselves, to see what it’s like if more than capable of pulling off the feat. feathers up when women arethey’re around.” availability.” driving down the interstate

– Bradley Cooper

Thisweek’s week’s Sudoku answers This Sudoku answers

Thisweek’s week’sCrossword Crossword answers This

This week’s Celebrity CipherCipher answers This week’s Celebrity answers Puzzle One Solution: “I don’t think I could think of a single thing that’s more isolating than being famous.” – Lady Gaga Puzzle Two Solution: “Women are a source of energy. ... Men become like peacocks with their feathers up when women are around.” – Bradley Cooper

This week’s Sudoku answers

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The Plant City Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The Plant City Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

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is locally owned by Ed Verner, Karen Berry, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes The Plant City Observer is published by Plant City Media LLC.

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This week’s Crossword answers

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

STATUES

The annual J. Seward Johnson sculptures have officially returned to Plant City and will remain on display downtown until March 15. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

hile driving down Collins Street one may notice flocks of people gathering around a platinum blonde and a grate as they attempt to recreate the iconic scene from “The Seven Year Itch.” The annual J. Seward Johnson sculptures are now on display throughout downtown Plant City. This year Johnson’s work features crowd favorites like the “Forever Marilyn” Marilyn Monroe statue at McCall Park on Collins Street, two tennis players in “Making a Point” on J. Arden Mays Boulevard by Krazy Kup and a man enjoying an ice cream cone in “Hot Weather” in front of the Plant City Photo Archives. The annual event is hosted by the Arts Council of Plant City and sponsors include AC of Plant City, the city of Plant City, the Plant City Photo Archives, Don Stine Construction and Cameron Financial Services. Visitors to downtown often give the life-sized statues a double take as, upon first glance, many appear to be realistic. The tradition of the statues coming to town is one many have come to anticipate over

the years. Despite its long history, the statues remain new and refreshing and the community often gets involved with the project by sharing photos of themselves with the artwork. Everything from two women chatting on a bench to a little girl enjoying a treat and even a group of friends posing for a photo are represented in the statues this year. Each year the statues come to town for community members to go on a self-guided tour and enjoy the unique works of art. The 10 statues will be on display until March 15, 2019.

This week on Cops Corner, officers put out dumpster fires, investigated a stolen cat house and sought out a razor addict.

NOV. 23

PURR-FECT ESCAPE 3500 block of W. Reynolds St. Theft with a waiver signed: A teenage boy ran up to this victim’s front porch and swiped the owner’s cat house. Tucking the house under his arm, he fled the scene in an unknown vehicle. The victim signed a waiver of prosecution not wanting to continue the investigation.

NOV. 24

BURN BABY BURN 200 block of W. Alexander St. Arson: An unknown suspect snuck behind the Premiere Cinema 8 and started two dumpster fires behind the movie theater. Plant City Fire Department and officers

from Plant City Police Department were able to bring the fire under control using fire extinguishers before any major damage was done.

NOV. 25

A DAIRY-ING HEIST 2200 block of N. Park Rd. Theft: A pint of milk and two energy drinks, valued at $7.47, were stolen from the store.

NOV. 28

CLOSE SHAVE 400 block of N. Alexander St. Theft: A CVS employee told officers that $552.82 worth of razors were stolen from the store.

Beautique Hair Studio 10 years

Always Accepting Experience New Clientele

Two tennis players have a chat in Johnson’s “Making A Point” statue.

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PCPD officers posed around the “Waiting” statue in McCall Park near Palmer Street.

“Yum Yum” - Bruton Memorial Library “At Long Last” - City Hall North Entrance “Chance Meeting” - Corner of Collins and Reynolds “Forever Marilyn” - McCall Park, Collins Street “Waiting” - McCall Park, Palmer Street “Lunch Break” - Willaford Railroad Museum “Making a Point” - J. Arden Mays Boulevard “Building Better Neighbors” - Plant City Mural Park “Hot Weather” - Photo Archives “Photo Session” - Village Green Park

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

COPS CORNER

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Dodie White, board of directors member of the Arts Council, and Marsha Passmore, president of the Arts Council, with the "Forever Marilyn" statue at McCall Park.

FAMILY MEDICAL SPECIALISTS OF FLORIDA Michael Paul Gimness, MD Kelli Woody, MD Katherine Newman, ARNP Jennifer Zeljkovic, ARNP The “Lunch Break” statue can be found at the Willaford Railroad Museum.

1703 Thonotosassa Road, Suite A, Plant City, Florida 33563

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Santa disembarks at depot

Santa Claus is making a special appearance at the train depot and trading in his sleigh for a shiny caboose.

File photo

The photo-op will act as a toy drive for PCPD who will deliver the toys to children throughout the area.

downtown Plant City. That evening, families can pop into Krazy Kup to grab a hot chocolate or peppermint mocha, walk through the lights, stop in Neumeisters Candy Shoppe for some snacks and then head to the depot for pictures with Kris Kringle and his faithful elf. The depot is also hosting an open house from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. For those who haven’t stopped by recently, it will look like a brand new exhibit. The museum recently underwent major renovations and is now sporting a fresh coat of paint, seven new showcases and well over 100 pieces that were not on display this time last year. Barber said the goal is to have the beloved model train layout finished in time for the festivities.

Cost: Free to attend. Recommended donation of one toy for a photo.

The museum will hold an open house and have holiday photos with Santa Claus in a caboose.

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anta Claus is ditching the miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer this Christmas in favor of a shiny railcar caboose. The Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum is once again offering a unique holiday photo opportunity that helps out local children. In a partnership with Plant City Police Department, the depot will be hosting photos with Santa Claus from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 14. “Basically families can come out and take photos with Santa, who is going to be at the depot in

the caboose,” Eric Barber, president of Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, said. “This is the third year we’ve done this. It’s something different, taking photos with Santa in the caboose. I don’t know anywhere else that can do that.” The event is free and all the depot asks in return is for participating families to bring a toy to donate to a child in need. The toys will be collected and PCPD will distribute them to families throughout Plant City in honor of the holiday. Barber recommends families make a night of it. The depot intentionally planned the event to follow the annual Lights of Love, which illuminates the array of Christmas lights throughout

IF YOU GO

Park Rd.

STAFF WRITER

The photo-op will act as a toy drive for PCPD who will deliver the toys to children throughout the area.

Maryland Ave.

BREANNE WILLIAMS

The Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum is a hidden gem in Plant City. Without trains, the town would more than likely never have existed and its rail-based roots make for a fun evening of learning at the depot in the heart of downtown. “The town wouldn’t be here without the trains,” Barber said. “The town of Alafia, the area of Cork and Shiloh, when the tracks moved here all three moved here and created Plant City. The whole town itself is based on the tracks being here. It’s been a staple for a lot of years. For the longest time that was the only way to get our fruits and vegetables and other products and items to the north and to the market.” Festive fun and a dose of learning make for a unique holiday experience and Barber said the depot hopes to continue the tradition in Plant City for years to come. As much as they love sharing their passion with the community, he said seeing the joy from the families that get to meet Santa and knowing they are helping dozens of other kids with the donated toys makes this all so much more worthwhile. A team of volunteers will help pull off the elaborate event and Barber said local residents and businesses do so much for the museum that it’s “nice to be able to give back to the community.” “The little kids see Santa and their faces just light up,” Barber said. That’s the best part and even the kids that see Santa and run screaming, well in a way that’s a unique moment too because their parents and siblings are laughing and it’s an overall happy moment. It’s a fun event, great for the community. So bring your friends, come out and have a good time. Kids are in need in the community and it’s great to be able to help.”

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DECEMBER 8, 2018 8:00AM – 12:00PM St Clement Catholic Church Golden Door 1104 N Alexander St Plant City CLOTHING | FURNITURE | HOME GOODS | & MORE | CASH & CARRY

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

If you’re having a stroke, this is your mortal enemy.

Tampa Bay with 11 hospitals that are designated primary stroke centers.

You’re probably well aware that a stroke is dangerous; a blockage has cut off, or interrupted, the blood flow to your brain. Tick. Tick. Tick. The blockage needs to be removed, oxygen restored. And the most important factor in accomplishing this? Time. The faster you get to a hospital, the greater the odds for a full and successful recovery.

When you or a loved one experiences a stroke, it’s a very serious, life-threatening emergency. However, when it’s treated quickly, the chance of a good recovery increases dramatically. And to more rapidly assist you, our primary stroke centers are spread throughout the greater Tampa Bay area. So no matter where you live in the four counties we serve, you’re never far from a BayCare stroke center. To learn more: BayCareStroke.org

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Christmas time is here Plant City is rolling out the red carpet for the holiday season with a calendar filled with non-stop events for residents of all ages.

Breanne Williams.

The Lights of Love event kicks off Christmas for Plant City as the holiday lights and tree are lit up by Santa and Mrs. Claus.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The holiday season is upon us and celebrations throughout Plant City are well underway. Regardless of your age or budget, this season you will have more than enough festive events to choose from to ensure your family is full of Christmas cheer come Dec. 25. Tonight, head to McCall park at 5:30 p.m. to participate in the annual Lights of Love tree lighting ceremony downtown. A 24-foot live tree is adorned with lights that have been dedicated by members of the public in honor or memory of their loved ones. The event is free and there will be holiday music by local choirs as well as photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at a nominal charge. The photos begin at 5:30 p.m. and the tree lighting ceremony is at 6:30 p.m. Come early for a good spot as the park fills up quickly for the event. The East Hillsborough Art Guild will also be having a holiday art show and sale in the courtyard in honor of the event. The show begins at 5 p.m. The next night, head back downtown for the annual Plant City Christmas Parade. The parade starts at Collins and Alsobrook Streets, travels north on Collins through downtown, turns right onto Reynolds Street and end at the courthouse. Be

warned, few events draw massive crowds to downtown like this parade. Get there as early as possible for both parking and to secure a spot by the roadway. The parade features a variety of officials, organizations, churches and school marching bands. Judges will be evaluating each parade participant and winners will be awarded a cash prize and a trophy. The party doesn’t wrap up until nearly 9 p.m., so bring some hot chocolate and get ready to welcome Santa Claus and his sleigh to Plant City. On Dec. 8 head to First United Methodist Church of Plant City to enjoy the Plant City Community Chorale’s special holiday concert, “Making Spirits Bright,” which is sponsored by Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens. The concert is at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $15 at the door. Head to pccchorale.org for more information. Every Thursday through Sunday head to the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds to enjoy Plant City’s own Christmas Lane. This event features a winter wonderland full of lights, nightly entertainment, fair rides and a living nativity. There is also a "letters to Santa" station, face painting and LEGO in the KidZOne. Children age three years old and under are free, ages 4 years old to 12 years old are $3 and anyone 13 years old or older are $5.

A special Candlelight Tour is being held in the historic district by the East Hillsborough Historical Society on Dec. 14 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The tour includes stops at the home of Sandi and Jock McGlathery, the Sparkman House Luxury Bed & Breakfast, the home of Doresa and Pat Young and the 1914 Plant City High School Museum. Online reservations are preferred and there will only be advanced ticket sales. Head to ehhsoc.org for more information or email info@ehhsoc.org. If you want a one-of-a-kind Santa photo with your kids head to the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum on Dec. 14 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. to get a photo with Santa in a caboose. The event is free, but they ask participants to bring a toy to donate to a local family in need. The museum will also be hosting an open house at the same time until 9 p.m. December 15 is the day of festive shows throughout town. If you’re looking for a more unique holiday celebration check out the “Uh-Oh Here Comes Christmas” production at Plant City Entertainment on Dec. 15. There are two shows at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and tickets are $10 at the door. The show will include 15 holiday stories that examine the struggle many of us face to find the spirit of the holidays amid the onslaught of commercialism and stress that come each December. It’s funny, heartwarming and gets even the staunchest Scrooge ready to cook the prize turkey. The same evening Krazy Kup is hosting one of the jolliest parties of the season. The Christmas Lip

Sync Battle is 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 children to listen to Santa read a p.m. and is free to attend and $5 Christmas tale. to perform. Message your name, Bruton is also helping you nab song title and artist to Krazy Kup the perfect gift for your loved on Facebook to sign up. ones this Christmas with its The last several Lip Syncs have annual Christmas used book sale. been a full house and the holi- The event began on Nov. 30 and day show should be no excep- is at 10 a.m. each day the library tion. Come dressed in your is open until New Year’s Day. The ugly Christmas sweater or your selection is diverse and the prices favorite Christmas t-shirt and are minimal. enjoy one of the most fun shows The annual Santa Sled Festiin town. Get there early to snag a val will be held on Dec. 22 from good seat. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Marie B. Ellis If Jazz is your passion, the Park. More than 300 families Bealsville Community Group will be served and children will has you covered. On Dec. 15 at receive toys, clothes and bicycles the Bealsville Recreation Center and their family will walk away guests can dress to the nines and with a Christmas ham or turkey enjoy a “Motown Jazzy Christ- and a variety of other groceries. mas” featuring guest vocalist Registration for the event has Velvet and music by Fireproof passed, but it will be a day of nonUnlimited. stop fun for all who attend. Doors open at 7 p.m. and tickThese are just a handful of dozets are $25. You can grab a ticket ens of events being held throughby contacting Gerald Wasi at 813- out December. Keep your eyes 716-4554 or Rodney Mackey at peeled and you shouldn’t have 813-966-6084. For more infor- any issue finding the perfect holmation head to the Bealsville iday celebration for your family. Community Group Facebook page. Bruton Memorial Library is hosting a variety of special holiday events, however, the Story Time with Mr. and Mrs. Claus on Dec. 19 at 6:30 p.m. is sure to be one of the highlights of the season. Santa Claus is taking a short trip from the North Pole to read a story to children ages three years old to seven years old and their caregivers. After the story, the kiddos can jump in for a photo-op with the File photo legendary Christmas duo and participate in some fun festive activities. Bonnie the therapy dog The Christmas parade is one of the will also be snuggled up with the largest events of the year.

File photo. Santa Sled Festival will serve more than 300 families this year.

Breanne Williams.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

The long and winding road FDOT assures Alexander Street construction will not interfere with the Florida Strawberry Festival.

STAFF WRITER

Alexander Street is finally being paved. After much preliminary work by the Florida Department of Transportation, the actual road is now being repaired. Construction for the project is taking place at night to help prevent congestion and drivers have begun to comment on the visible construction to the roadway, which has been a point of contention for residents for years. Last week, city commissioners commented on the slow repair for the roadway and Commissioner Bill Dodson inquired as to when we would begin to see visual improvements. The very next day construction teams hit the streets and he said he was happy to finally be able to see progress. Despite rumors the state was having issues getting started, FDOT assured it was on schedule and completing the necessary steps. “There was not a delayed start to this contract,” Kristen Carson, spokesman for FDOT District Seven, said. “The contractor was completing work that was not as noticeable to the public. Shoulder widening, extensive erosion control installation and base work at multiple locations.” Lawrence McClure, state representative for District 58, said his office has been committed to ensuring this project was completed on time and on budget.

For him, the Florida Strawberry Festival was the ultimate completion date and as it looms ever closer he said he was determined to ensure the state understood how crucial it was all work FDOT plans to have Alexander Street completed in the spring of 2019. was completed by the time thousands of visitors came tion company keeps in mind how “We’ll have to hope for good to town. important the festivities are to weather,” Dodson said. “TypiThe 2018 Florida Strawberry the community. Luckily, FDOT cally in the winter time, which Festival drew 526,025 guests, has received the frequent mes- we are in, we have dryer months according to the festival. People sages from the city and McClure so construction shouldn’t have park in the front yards of homes, and has come up with a solu- much of an issue. I’m optimiscatch golf cart shuttles from dis- tion if the construction has to be tic that there shouldn’t be any tant parking lots and occasion- delayed due to weather or other slowdowns in their project. ally even find themselves sitting unforeseeable events. They’re left with several months in bumper-to-bumper traffic on “We are pushing hard to have to get this completed, that’s all of the interstate as they attempt to the contractor complete this proj- December, January and almost all file into Plant City. ect before the Strawberry Festival of February.” Adding construction cones and because we know how important If the deadline looms he said detours to the mix would inevi- the Festival is to the communi- FDOT may want to consider tably be a disaster and Dodson ty,” Carson said. “However, with expanding its construction into said failing to complete in time or weather delays and upcoming day-hours, which he believes the accommodate for the 11-day fes- holidays, the Plant City Christ- public will accommodate to get tival would “create an enormous mas parade etc., it could push the this completed. back-up and burden.” completion date out. If we cannot While the general feeling seems Gail Lyons, director of the complete the project before the to be relief knowing there is a plan Grand Parade that takes place start of the Festival, at that time b, McClure said he shares the each festival season, said she all work will be suspended with frustration of the city leadership wasn’t too concerned about the all equipment being removed or at the speed the project seems to uncertain timeline of the road stockpiled at the southern end of be taking. repair. She said she remembers the project.” “It seems to me that it was years ago when Evers Street and Dodson said he was relieved going a little slower than had Wheeler Street were “all torn up” the state understands Plant been expected,” McClure said. right before the parade. City’s unique predicament and “We’ve been waiting a long time They were able to pull it off the investment the entire com- for that road to get paved. The then, so she is certain they can munity has in both the repair of good news is it’s happening. I pull it off now. Though she did the road and the success of the think in sixth months it will be add she truly hopes the construc- annual festival. something that’s not spoken of

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

You can’t

STOP the beat BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

A new recording studio in Plant City is hoping to offer local artists the perfect haven to create their art without having to trek across the Bay to find a skilled, flexible and welcoming venue. Kaylee Strickland created Back Pocket Recording Studio, 1514 S. Alexander St. Suite 204, in April. Strickland considers Lithia home — barring the years she pursued her artist development degree at Liberty University — and said she knew Plant City had a thriving music scene. “I felt called to come back home and open a studio,” Strickland said. “The music scene is alive and well and I wanted to contribute. There is so much talent here and people are driving to Orlando, Clearwater and St. Pete to have a chance to record in a studio… I’ve gotten a lot of feedback saying how convenient it is to have us 15 minutes from their house.” Clients range from people wanting to make a track for friends and family, to serious musicians wishing to produce an album. When someone decides they’re ready to enter the studio they set up a consultation appointment with Strickland and discuss the genre they perform and what type of track they’re hoping to produce. Strickland says she does her best to get a feel for the dreams and desire of each client. The ambiance of the experience is obvious from the moment the

A retro recording studio has opened its doors in Plant City allowing local artists to create their work in their own backyard. Photos by Breanne Williams

Kaylee Strickland created a state-of-the-art recording studio right here in Plant City.

client walks in the door. Hanging on the wall are mounted vinyls from artists like Johnny Cash, Jim Croce, Fleetwood Mac and Chris Stapleton. Strickland’s warmhearted and authentic personality shines as she delves into your goal and shares anecdotes of her own time spent crooning and extemporizing at the piano. The studio is full-service and handles recording and tracking, editing, mixing, mastering and production. Music, like any form of art, is extremely personal and Strickland said she makes it her goal to ensure each client gets the perfect finished product. “The coolest part is meeting people,” Strickland said. “I’ve met all of these incredibly talented people right here in Plant City. I love being the way that people can use their creativity and artistry and it’s not going to break their bank, it’s not going to take a ton of time and they’re really happy with what they get. It’s probably my favorite part, helping people get where they want to go.” While the timeline varies depending on what each client

wants, the turnaround of the studio is fast. Whether it’s a single track of just voice and piano or a full album with a wide mix of instruments, the studio delivers a polished finished product well within a strict schedule. The studio is equipped to handle any project. So far the majority of the clients have been musicians, however, Strickland said she hopes to soon have people interested in podcasting or recording audiobooks give the mic a whirl. “I’m just happy to be here, I’m really thankful,” Strickland said. “My word for the past year has

been gratitude. Music is so personal and private and to have so many people trust me with their work, that means everything to me. Especially at the end when I give them the finished product and they absolutely fall in love with it. Every single day is something new and I can’t wait to see what new talent is going to walk through the doors.” For more information visit backpocketrecordingstudio.com, call 813-756-6501 or check out any of its social media sites.

Back Pocket is a full-service studio that handles recording and tracking, editing, mixing, mastering and production. Photos by Breanne Williams

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Veterans

spotted a grave of a veteran they gently placed a wreath adorned with a Christmas bow and a holiday tag that read, “With gratitude from American Legion Auxiliary Unit 26 Plant City, Fl.” Sometimes a volunteer would pause, quietly reading the engraved name and bending down to remove some overgrowing grass or fallen moss from the tombstone. It’s a tradition McGregor said the Legion plans to continue “until we can’t walk any longer.” Anyone interested in donating to help purchase more wreaths or to learn more about the program can call McGregor at 813-716-5684. “Our veterans, they can’t be forgotten,” McGregor said. “As long as there is breath in our bodies we won’t let that happen.”

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 26 in Plant City spends hours each year prepping and placing close to 900 Christmas wreaths on the graves of local veterans.

receive Legion’s Christmas wreaths

Breanne Williams

As they walked down the rows, the volunteers gently placed holiday wreaths upon the graves of veterans.

Wreaths Across America to place wreaths at national cemeteries. This year the Legion was able to place approximately 870 wreaths in Plant City. But McGregor said they are far from finished. “We want to be able to place wreaths on every single veteran’s grave in Plant City,” McGregor said. “We’re going to keep giving and keep growing. This year we were short on funds. People weren't able to give as much,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“...and then we spend all day walking around and placing them on graves. But that’s nothing in comparison to what they’ve done. This is the least we can do.” The Legion chose to start this project to honor the veterans that were placed in normal cemeteries surrounded by their loved ones. The Legion also donates to

which I think is happening across the board. But we’re determined to do everything we can to keep this growing. The goal next year is to be able to do the other side as well.” This year the core group of volunteers were joined by several newcomers. The message is spreading and McGregor said it is an honor to hear every unique story and get to know the heroes that live right here in Plant City.

The youngest volunteer was a boy named Dakota who has been coming out for two years to help with the event with his grandmother. Several of the other volunteers were using canes to walk through the rows, determined to not let a single grave slip through the cracks. As the volunteers filled their arms with wreaths they split up and slowly walked up and down their assigned section. When they

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DECEMBER 6, 2018

SPORTS

Megan Watson leads Strawberry Crest’s girls basketball team. See Page 14

Sidelines Pro-Active Academe tryouts Pro-Active Sports Academe will host 7-on-7 football tryouts this weekend. Football players from around the area are invited to try out for the Nighthawks, the academy’s traveling competition team, at 3 p.m. Sunday at the MLK Recreation Center fields, 1903 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. There is no cost to try out for the team — “Just come to work,” head coach Gerold Dickens said.

SCORES ROUNDUP

The following area scores were available at press time.

Justin Kline

BOYS BASKETBALL

Jeremiah Epps picks up a big gain for the 10U Dolphins on Monday night.

Nov. 30 Riverview 76, Durant (H) 57

DOLPHINS TAKE TALENTS TO UYFL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Hillsborough 64, Strawberry Crest (H) 46 Dec. 4 Durant 56, East Bay (H) 50 Plant City (H) 60, Bloomingdale 40 Tampa Bay Tech (H) 60, Strawberry Crest 58 GIRLS BASKETBALL Nov. 30 Riverview 45, Durant (H) 33 Strawberry Crest (H) 62, Hillsborough 22 Dec. 4 Durant 61, East Bay (H) 38 Bloomingdale 57, Plant City (H) 30 Tampa Bay Tech (H) 72, Strawberry Crest 32 BOYS SOCCER Nov. 29 Durant (H) 1, Newsome 0 Nov. 30 Plant City 8, Strawberry Crest (H) 0 Dec. 4 Lennard 1, Durant (H) 0 Strawberry Crest (H) 7, Blake 0 GIRLS SOCCER Nov. 29 Durant (H) 5, Newsome 1 Nov. 30 Plant City 3, Strawberry Crest (H) 0 Dec. 4 Durant (H) 5, Lennard 1 Strawberry Crest (H) 8, Blake 0

The Plant City Dolphins sent four teams to this week’s national football tourney. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

he Plant City Dolphins are making another “run for the rings.” Four PCD squads signed up for the 2018 United Youth Football League National Championships, held once again in Plant City at Ellis-Methvin Park, and began tournament play over the weekend. The Dolphins are fielding teams in the 8 Weighted, 10 Unlimited East, 12 Unlimited All-Star and 15 All-Star age brackets. The 10 Unlimited East team is better known as the Midgets squad that has won 29 consecutive games and three Superbowls in Tri-County Youth Football and Cheerleading Conference play. The Dolphins’ All-Star bracket teams are made up of PCD players and others from teams around the TCYFCC.

The 8W Dolphins started things off with a 33-0 win over the North Carolina Giants at 7 p.m. Monday and advanced to play the Detroit Spartans at 8:30 a.m. in yesterday’s semifinal round. That bracket’s championship game will be played at 8:30 a.m. Friday. The 10U East Dolphins came out of their first-round bye with a 40-7 win over the Reidsville Tigers on Monday evening, but then suffered a 31-0 loss to DFW Elite at 10:15 a.m. Tuesday. They will play MOT Cowboys at 3:30 p.m. today for the co-fourth place spot in the East-West tournament. The 12U All Stars also got a first-round bye and looked good in a 24-6 win over the Elite Kids Tigers on Monday evening. They advanced to face Sportz Farm Elite in Wednesday afternoon’s semifinal round. That brack-

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

et’s championship game will be played at 1:45 p.m. Friday. The 15U All Stars started their week by dominating the NY All Stars, 47-0, on Sunday evening and faced the Fayetteville Ducks in Wednesday’s semifinal round at 5:15 p.m. That bracket’s championship game will be played at 5:15 p.m. Friday. Plant City has hosted the UYFL national championship tournaments since 2011, starting at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex and moving across the street to Ellis-Methvin Park upon the park’s completion. Each year, hundreds of youth football teams from all over the United States travel to Plant City for the first week of December to compete and the Dolphins organization typically fields several squads and helps the UYFL personnel with day-to-day operations like concessions. A full list

of brackets, game times and field locations is viewable online at unitedyfl.com/brackets. Results from Wednesday’s games were not available at press time.

Justin Kline

The 12U Plant City Dolphins faced the Elite Kids Tigers on Monday night.

JUSTIN KLINE

Can culture keep the kids? Even without I championships, strong culture could be key to survive transfer periods.

f you talk to coaches before or early in any sports season, one thing you’ll hear a lot about is culture. New coaches always want to dive right in and build a strong culture from the ground up. Returning coaches want to keep building or keep what’s already been realized on the right track. Seasoned veterans want to make sure it’s clear their programs will

carry themselves the way they’re known for. It’s probably schools’ best — if not only — hope for program survival in a time where kids have more freedom to change scenery than ever before. Every coach wants to create or maintain a strong culture, but it’s not as simple as it sounds. The art of coaching itself goes beyond strategy and game

planning. It’s a tough exercise in management, controlling people’s emotions and conceptions and attitudes. What good is there in having a great game plan if no one on the playing field wants to run it for you? You have to be more than just a SEE KLINE, PAGE 14

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Kline

SPONSORED BY SPORT CLIPS

Megan Watson The Strawberry Crest girls basketball team is currently undefeated, thanks in part to strong play from junior Megan Watson. Watson helped the team to a 10-point win over King in the Nov. 27 opener with a triple double (24 points, 11 rebounds and 11 steals) and kept up the good work with 22 points, nine steals and seven assists against Hillsborough on Nov. 30. You’re all off to a good start. How do you feel about the way things are going for the Chargers right now? This season, we’re coming out strong and working every day. I’m feeling pretty good, pretty confident about this season. Hopefully we’ll go undefeated. Your coach told me you’re a great leader for this team. How do you make sure you’re setting a good example out there? I’m trying to make sure I compose myself. I keep my head up because I know if my head falls, their’s does, too I just try to be a leader and speak positivity. You started with a triple double and came pretty close in the next game. What’s working for you so well now that you’ve improved on from last year? I’m just always on attack mode. Last year, I was a little scared. This year I’m just going and get-

ting my head into the game and not letting anything affect me.

FROM PAGE 13

What’s your proudest moment on the court? This year, one of our freshmen, I got her an assist. It was a really good moment. What’s your favorite thing about being a part of this team? We’re all positive, funny, close this year. We’re like sisters. What are your strengths as a player? I have a strong mentality. I have a strong will to win. I always want to fight to the end and try my best. Do you have any college plans? I definitely want to play basketball, so I’m just waiting to find the right school. How long ago did you start playing? I started playing basketball in AAU in seventh grade and I just fell in love my first year. It was a moment, we were in overtime and something just clicked. I just went hard and ever since then I just wanted to play. What are your personal goals for this season? I’m pretty close to 1,000 points, so I want to get that as a junior. I also want to get my assists up this season. I’m at about 826 (points) or so right now.

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

motivational speaker to make sure your culture doesn’t sink that low. The best programs in this area (and pretty much everywhere, for that matter) work so well because the people in charge are really good at two specific things: keeping their egos in check and keeping it real with their athletes. Your kids will always work hard for you if they believe in you and, now that they have so much freedom to move around, the concept of blind loyalty is becoming obsolete. You can talk all you want about being a catalyst for change and rebuilding and pretty much trademarking doing things “The (insert mascot here) Way.” But if you can’t look in the mirror and honestly say you’re the kind of coach you’d want to play for at your athletes’ age, they’re going to quit on you. They’re going to have horrible body language and question your judgment (even when they know the Observer guy is standing just a few feet away). They’re going to leave your team. They’re going to talk to their peers and others about what it was like to play for you and that word will spread. Trust me, they will talk. Maybe it’s Plant City’s famous small-town feel spreading its roots around, but these kids like feeling like they’re part of a big, loving extended family more often than not. They like playing for coaches who give them a

reason to believe in themselves when they step onto the playing field. They want coaches who aren’t too proud to admit when their game plans are failing and aren’t afraid to try something new on the fly to correct course. They also want coaches who are too proud of their teams to give up on them. If they’re coming from a truly good culture with good people running the show, they’re going to go all-in for the college coaching staff that makes them feel the same way you and your staff did. I’ve heard it many times over many years from many kids in many sports. If your heart’s not in it, they’ll know. Even if you try to cover for it with motivational posters and social media posts and other optics, they’ll see through it. No matter how far along your culture is, you have to be the kind of coach anyone would want to play for if you want to give yourself the best odds of keeping your kids from transferring after the season.

Justin Kline is the Sports Editor at the Plant City Times & Observer. Email: jkline@ plantcityobserver. com.

Back to her roots, Jayme Harris, Plant City native, PCHS graduate c/o 1990 and USAF veteran has officially opened her boutique in Downtown Plant City.

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Durant, Plant City introduce new basketball coaches

Youth Fishing Derby kicks off December

Sean Hayes and Hayden Cantrell are now leading the DHS boys and PCHS girls, respectively. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

AS Proofer 2:

Justin Kline

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

5-10 WINNERS MOST FISH CAUGHT: Kenny Reaves BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT: Devin DuBose FIRST CATFISH: Noah Melendez

11-15 WINNERS MOST FISH CAUGHT Matthew Bloomberg BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT Brayden Morgan CAPTAIN'S AWARD Samantha Anderson

Kenny Reaves caught seven fish, the most by any angler at the derby.

Devin DuBose caught the first fish of the day.

The semi-annual derby saw 13 total fish caught on Dec. 1. Casey Ard

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The last Youth Fishing Derby of 2018 was a success, especially for those in the 5-10 age group. The derby's youngest anglers caught all 13 fish that were recorded the morning of Dec. 1, so those in the 11-15 age group put their skills to the test with a casting contest in the adjacent grass field. Six of the 37 competitors took home awards and prizes.

The fishing derby is held twice a year and free for all youths age 5 to 15.

Zadok and Gunnar Mills.

The Bloomberg family was happy to have a fun outing together.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given that on Friday, December 14, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. Pursuant to the Florida Statute 83.801-83.809, Ballard Mini-Storage / Affordable Storage formally Personal Mini Storage, 4935 Dr. Martin L. King Blvd., Plant City, FL 33566 will conduct a sale for cash to the highest bidder or otherwise dispose of the contents of rental units. Management reserves the right to refuse any bid. The Rental Units are leased to and believed to contain the following:

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Unit 11 – Griselda Resendiz-Almarez – Household Unit 18 – Davis Russell Maron, Jr. – Household Unit 19 – Allied Restoration Group, Inc & Antonia Pena – Miscellaneous Unit 42 – Christopher Lee Nesselroad – Household Unit 43 – Nicolas Salazar – Household Unit 44 – Sandra Seelye – Household Unit 63 – Victor Antonio Hernandez – l Household Unit 68 – Louis Berry Seelye – Household Unit 73 – Melinda Kay Perez – Household Unit 82 – Prudencia Aguirre-Benitez – Household Unit 86 – Jose Lopez – Household Unit 87 – Lenard Robert Earl Jones – Household Unit 92 – Jaime Marlene Mayer – Household Unit 104 – Jose Antonio Ferre – Household Unit 127 – J. Jesus Ramirez-Duenez – Household Unit 139 – Stanley Wayne Lane – Household Unit E-345 – Mary Jane Hernandez – Household Unit D-212 – Richard Irving Everidge – Miscellaneous Unit D-272 – Johnny Ray Wheaton – Miscellaneous Unit D-209 – Johnny Ray Costine – Household Unit D-268 – Kelly Diane Nichols – Household Unit D-281 – Cererna Marie Frederick – Household

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urant’s boys and Plant City’s girls basketball teams are kicking off a new season with new leadership. Sean Hayes and Hayden Cantrell are taking over the programs this winter and hoping to lay the foundation for strong seasons to come. Hayes replaces the outgoing Nate Francis at Durant. With previous roles at Alonso High School, Cambridge Christian, Bell Creek Academy and the Teddy Dupay Basketball Academy, he’s quite familiar with Tampa Bay-area hoops and is getting started in his first head coaching role at a public high school by coaching to compete. “On the court, we want to compete as hard as we can. We obviously want wins, but we want to make sure the boys are competing out there,” Hayes said. “A ton of energy, not leaving anything on the floor.” Under Hayes, the Cougars are looking to spread the floor and find open shooters to come out ahead on the scoreboard. Key returning players include 2017-18 Revision 2 Revision 3 Revision 4 scoring leader Jeff White and felAS Proofer 1: low senior Brendan MacLachlan,

who returns to Durant after a year at Bloomingdale. “We have unselfish players,” Hayes said. “We’ve got three or four guys who can really knock it down. That’s what we’re looking for. Cantrell is taking over at Plant City after Danny McIntyre’s departure. He moves to the role after spending the fall sports season as head coach of the Raiders’ JV football team, but has played basketball since high school and dabbled in coaching the sport when working as a student teacher. His task will be difficult, as last season’s Raiders team was extremely senior-heavy (six players graduated in 2018) and only Alexia Stone and Johnalisse Morales are returning. The 2018-19 Raiders only have two seniors along with one junior, four sophomores and two freshmen. “If we play to our full potential, I think we’ll surprise a bunch of people this year even though I’m new and a lot of my girls are young,” Cantrell said. Cantrell’s goal is for this year’s young roster to develop and, within two to three years, become a serious threat for any opponent. “This year, I’m just trying to get a Insertion Date: 12/6 group of girlsClient: out and have them play Keiser-Lakeland together one unit,” Cantrell said. 231-1780-PCO-Evidence-CJ-5x6 Jobas Number: “We’re just trying to someCity Observer Product/Pub: Plantbuild thing here, trying form a base and Size:to5x6 get these girls to leave SB a legacy so we Production: can build upon this.” Work Date: 11/19

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

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“Waking up in the middle of the night to secretly eat all the Christmas cookies. I was 6 or 7.”

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“My first Christmas with my wife... I had gotten a book I knew she would like and one I knew I would like... after my wife had gone to bed I snuck them both under the tree and labeled them ‘from Santa.’” — Tyler Hollis, 39

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Lynsey Elise Hurst

Rev. Edward C. Allen, 94, of Durant, born on Jan. 3, 1924 in Greenspring, West Virginia, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 25, 2018. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Baby Lynsey Elise Hurst, was born and entered into eternal rest on Nov. 26, 2018. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Martha G. Watkins, 87, of Plant City, born on Feb. 17, 1931 in Hamilton, New York, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 27, 2018. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Michael Hernandez Michael Hernandez, 21, of Plant City, passed away on Dec. 2, 2018. The family will receive friends Dec. 9, 2018 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W Dr MLK Jr Blvd, Plant City, FL 33563. A funeral mass will be held on Dec. 10, 2018 at St. Clement Catholic Church at 11:00 AM. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

Frances Marie Weissler Kohlmann, 91, fortified with Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 29, 2018. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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David DuBose, 56, of Plant City, born on Oct. 18, 1962, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 28, 2018. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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William Earl Brown, 56, of Thonotosassa, passed away on Nov. 25, 2018. William Served in the U.S. Army National Guard. Services will be held privately. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

David DuBose

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VOLUME 6, NO. 22

William Earl Brown

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Observer

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

OBITUARIES

Edward C. Allen

Plant City’s Ironman SEE PAGE 10

29, 2018 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER

we wait City, but as evidenced in Now many changes ahead for Plant as There are the city is at a slight impasse Monday night’s commission meeting moving forward. SEE PAGE 8 it gathers more information before

YOUR TOWN

HIGGINBOTHAM

BIDS HILLSBOROUGH

COUNTY FAREWELL

Courtesy of PCPD

Twenty years of service

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Sgt. Signe Polk retired on Nov. 21 from Plant City Police of Department after 20 years service to Plant City. Chief Ed Duncan presented her with a plaque during a special ceremony. The plaque recognized her time at the office from July 20, 2018. 21, Nov. 1998 to The department said Polk will be greatly missed and the that her contributions to police department will be “felt long into the future.”

@PlantObserver and @PCTOSports

116 North Collins Street Plant City, FL 33563 ph: (813) 567-5735 allabloomtampa.com

Historic Downtown 287460-1

Courtesy of Deanna Hurley

the Board of County Commissioners

for years, acting as a voice

for local residents.

fter 12 years of service Comis missioner Al Higginbotham officially hanging up his hat. retired The Plant City native officially stage for a last week and is setting the new chapter in his life. the Higginbotham’s tenure on Board of County Commissioners only his brought years of wins to not He hometown but the entire county.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Board of County Al Higginbotham served on the a decade. Now Commissioners for more than to start he’s hanging up his hat and preparing life. the next chapter of his adventurous

SEE PAGE 3

three focused his entire career on to the issues: bringing civility back and board, focusing on the budget issues. working on environmental im“I didn’t know if I had left an difference pact, if I had really made a until my farewell,” Higginbotham of said. “I think I brought a level fought honesty to the table, I really board. to have some civility on the

Youth Parade accepting applications File photo

There was no shortage of floats and vehicles.

creativity with the 2018 crop

Courtesy of Julian Torres

Shop Small Saturday the Small businesses across country participated in Shop Small Saturday on Nov. 24. Stores and restaurants throughout Plant City joined in the event, offering special deals and photo opportunities for the community members that made it a mission to spend their holidays shopping locally. The Torres family went to Valerie’s Attic and the State Theare Antiques for the special shopping holiday.

As sponsor, we cordially invite you to

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is on its The 2019 Strawberry Youth Parade and the grand way. Applications are now open marshal has been unveiled. SEE PAGE 5

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT!

Performed by the

Plant City Community Choracle Conducted by

Claudia Liliana Bolaño Becerra Also Featuring

Florida Southerm Girls’ Chorus

Saturday, December 8th, 7:30 PM

First United Methodist Church | 303 N. Evers St., Plant City Tickets available from Chorale members & at www.pccchorale.org

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YOUR CALENDAR

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

THURSDAY, DEC. 6

ESPRESSO YOURSELF PAINT ’N SIP 6:33 to 8:33 p.m. Come out to Krazy Kup the first Thursday of every month for a Paint ’N Sip event hosted by experienced instructor Clay Hollenkamp of Join the Circus Productions. Admission is $25 and includes all of the supplies and instructions. Tickets available online through the Krazy Kup Facebook page.

FRIDAY, DEC. 7

PLANT CITY AREA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP MEETING 5:30 p.m. at the Big Lots parking lot, 1427 S. Collins St. They invite every Democrat to join them for the Plant City Christmas Parade.

DATE NIGHT SWING DANCE CLASS 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Stardust Dance Center, 3613 Citrus Tree Court. Learn West Coast Swing, Hustle, Single Swing and Jive. Register for a four-week session. Start now or wait till January 11, 2019. Classes run through March 2019. Just $15. per lesson. Contact Rapid Ballroom at 218-256-1873 or at RapidBallroom.com.

SATURDAY, DEC. 8

GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING CONTEST 3:30 p.m. at the Plant City Family YMCA, 1507 YMCA Place. Register your family at the welcome center to take part in the gingerbread house decorating contest. All gingerbread houses will stay on display at the Y until Dec. 17.

IMPROV NIGHT 7:13 to 8:13 p.m. Krazy Kup and Join the Circus Productions bring a night of improvisational acting to the stage on the second Thursday of every month with Under-Medicated Improv. Join some of the area's finest improv artists as they use audience suggestions to create scenes and play improv games. MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT 7:30 to 9 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 303 N. Evers St. Plant City Community Chorale presents a holiday-themed performance with Claudia Bolano Becerra, the PCCC and Florida Southern Girls Chorus. Tickets available for $10 at pccchorale.org or calling 813757-0212, or at the door for $15.

BEST BET FRIDAY, DEC. 7

PLANT CITY CHRISTMAS PARADE 7 p.m. The annual Plant City Christmas Parade will feature decorated floats, marching bands, civic and service groups, churches, local businesses and, of course, Santa Claus. The parade starts at Collins and Alsobrook Streets and travels north down Collins through downtown Plant City before turning right onto Reynolds Street and ending at the courthouse. Come early to get a good seat.

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Send your photo submissions to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@PlantCityObserver. com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

High: 69 Low: 49 Chance of rain: 0%

THURSDAY, DEC. 6

If there’s a beautiful sunset in Plant City, Toni Colon will have captured it with her camera. This particular sunset photo was recently shared by Instagramers of Plant City. Colon wins this week’s I Love Plant City photo contest.

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5:34p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, DEC. 8 High: 79 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 10%

ONLINE

SUNRISE / SUNSET

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

FORECAST

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Dec. 6 New

Dec. 11 First

Dec. 22 Full

Jan. 1 Last

RAINFALL Monday, Nov. 26

0.08

Tuesday, Nov. 27 0.00 Wednesday, Nov. 28

0.00

Thursday, Nov. 29 0.00 Friday, Nov. 30

0.00

Saturday, Dec. 1 0.00 0.00

Sunday, Dec. 2 YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2018 23.76 in.

2018 0.70 in.

2017 29.90 in.

2017 0.55 in.

GOLD & SILVER

Diamonds & Precious Gems,

285826 287511-1

813.754.2360 | 1705 Jim Redman Pkwy. Plant City, 33563

ACROSS

1 Org. full of attorneys 4 Edible missile 7 Dance variety 10 Tiddlywink, e.g. 14 Shot or snort, in a bar 18 London mother 19 Expand a beach ball 21 Exotic berry 22 Class of ‘02 member, now 23 Mr. x 4 27 Vast Colombian plain 28 List of candidates 29 4x4? 30 Be preventative?

31 Polishes, as text 34 Personal get-about 35 Emulate a bending Tiger Woods 38 Tucks away 40 Minute arachnids 44 Mr. x 3 50 Throws nonserious punches 51 Is in charge of 52 Drop-off locale 53 Follower of upsilon 54 Vigor go-with 55 Boston team, cut 56 “Look ___ ye leap” 57 Man of the cloth

60 Feline night prowler 62 Scavenging rodent 63 MOMA part 64 Become prone 65 Miss x 373 Late mo. 74 “The Murders in the ___ Morgue” 75 Key hider, sometimes 76 78-Down of 78-Down 78 Lilongwe locale 81 Induced 82 Railroad securer 84 F/X field 85 “Who” or “where” question finishers

86 Brit’s french fry 88 Seriously wise one 89 Audibly expressed pleasure 91 Mrs. x 3 97 Sporting venue 98 Lousy golf shot 99 Funny take on a situation 100 Winter health woe 102 By an agreed order 105 Kayak’s colder kin 108 Director Fuqua 112 Hipbone section 114 Approximately, in dates

115 Mrs. x 4 120 Scored via serve 121 Blended in with 122 Something for small constructors 123 Attachment to rod or bus 124 Certain MLB team 125 Thanksgiving sides 126 Visual object 127 Craven of horror films 128 Jewel

56 Joule’s smaller kin 58 Televise 59 Steering strap 61 “___ Christie” 63 Candles-on-a-cake indication 66 U-turn from later 67 Make advance arrangements 68 Birth control option, briefly 69 Pals, way south 70 Lady’s application DOWN 71 Nevado de ___ (moun1 Band broadcaster tains of Argentina) 2 Put together 72 Hot emotion 3 Walk casually 77 General helper 4 Early settlers 78 Giver of birth 5 Concert extenders 79 Islamic leader (var.) 6 Stern kin? 80 It may be dotted 7 Thing with a leaf 81 One spelling of a Chi8 Varsity starters nese fruit 9 Most jaunty 82 Sound of a leakage 10 Apply lightly 83 Run up, as a score 11 Curling surface 87 “48 ___” (Murphy 12 Mineo and Maglie movie) 13 Kind of duty 14 Drug-induced nightmare 89 Adherents to particle theory? 15 Gen. Robert ___ 90 Maintain to be true 16 Bit of fishing gear 92 Envelops (var.) 17 Some non-P.C. agents 93 Demonstrably true 20 ___ Alamos, NM 94 Sides in debates 24 Fly swatter? 95 Small guitar 25 Fifty-minute designa96 Small, sweet pastry tion 101 Retract spoken words 26 Big-time tests 103 Dude with a life of 32 Shannen of TV’s ease? “90210” 104 Give a bit of a push 33 Native of Malmo 106 Killing, as a test 36 Correct or raise 107 Couric of TV 37 Young turkeys 108 Not nigh at all 39 Droop a bit 109 Kind to everyone 41 Defeats 42 Lingering sound effect 110 ___ off (angry) 111 Thompson of “Nanny 43 Onion part 44 Respond to an invitation McPhee” 113 Chairman of China 45 Poppy product 116 Peer through a scope 46 Ray variety 117 Bouncer requests 47 Big bang maker 118 NNE swung 180 48 Donkey relative degrees 49 Drain of resources 119 Muser’s sound 55 Narrow rock opening

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.

“H MDY’L LPHYG H WDTAM LPHYG DS F OHYZAJ LPHYZ LPFL’O IDXJ HODAFLHYZ LPFY NJHYZ SFIDTO.” – AFMU ZFZF

“VANHB EIH E DACIMH AP HBHIXG. ... NHB KHMANH ZWFH RHEMAMFD VWLJ LJHWI PHELJHID CR VJHB VANHB EIH EIACBS.” – KIESZHG MAARHI

Puzzle Two Clue: X equals G

ADDRESS DIRECTORY by Timothy B. Parker

Puzzle One Clue: X equals R

CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

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

12-06-18

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

PlantCityObserver.com

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