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Art Falcone creates wooden works of art. 9
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Kendall Dawson Monthly Bike begins career Fest rumbles at St. Leo. into downtown. PAGE 11 PAGE 7
it’s read everywhere!
OUR TOWN
tribute
by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
Local grocer remembered for his work ethic, faith Felton Williams, founder of Felton’s Meat and Produce, died Dec. 27.
+ Garden produces oversized squash The First United Methodist Church’s Community Cafe had some special menu items Jan. 4 — two 32-pound Calabaza squashes. Delivered by members of the Plant City Commons Garden, the vegetables were two of six that grew on a huge vine. The vine occupies a 10-footby-15-foot area of the garden, located at 309 N. Carey St. “The vine had a mind of its own,” member Karen Elizabeth says. “A vine that big — it grew wherever it wanted.” The two squashes were volunteered to be donated by Harry West, a member of the garden and also a kitchen assistant at Christ’s Community Cafe, which serves food to the needy, the elderly and those looking for fellowship every Friday. The gardeners didn’t plant the squash. Instead, the vine sprouted from a pile of compost prepared in mid-September. Two gardeners each took one squash home. Two more squashes still are available. The Plant City Commons Garden would like to donate the squash to any organization that serves food to those in need. If you know an organization that could benefit, call Elizabeth, (813) 435-8111.
+ Church plans new quilting class The Plant City Seventh-day Adventist Church again will offer a quilting class. The six-week class will begin at 2:30 p.m. Jan. 13, at the church, 2203 Strawberry Drive. Cost is $30. A supply list will be provided for a specific project, or students can bring their own materials and projects. Come join the fun of learning new techniques and meeting new friends. For more, call Linda Hill, (706) 669-9406.
MALAWI, AFRICA. Bill Scannell and Joy Trent took their favorite newspaper with them on a recent trip to Malawi, Africa. They snapped this photo at the Track & Trail River Camp outside of South Luangwa National Park. “We were in our chalet when we heard all this banging,” Trent says. “Turns out, the elephants knock the trees around the camp with their heads so the fruit and nuts drop to the ground, and they can eat them.”
Oh,the
Places You’llGo! One of our favorite features is our It’s Read Everywhere photographs. We love seeing our loyal readers and advertisers take us on vacation with them — and we can’t believe how far the Plant City Observer has traveled in just six months of publishing. Our readers have taken us as far away as Africa, Florence and Paris — as well as dozens of places around the United States. As we grow, we hope to publish these more frequently, so please keep them coming! Snap a photo of you with the paper at your destination of choice and email it to Managing Editor Michael Eng, meng@ plantcityobserver.com. Make sure you include your full name and where the photo was taken.
SEE TRAVEL / PAGE 6
LAS VEGAS. David and Cynthia Wolf took a break from the sights and sounds of Las Vegas to enjoy the Plant City Observer at the Bellagio.
WAYNESVILLE, N.C. Rick and Jan Albritton caught up on their hometown news while visiting the Mast General Store in Waynesville, N.C.
INDEX Crossword.......... 14
When Felton Williams was drafted into the U.S. Army in late 1942, he looked out the window of a bus and thought he would never see his home again. But, Mr. Williams did return home from his service in World War II and eventually started the iconic grocery store, Felton’s Meat and Produce. Mr. Williams died Dec. 27, following a long illness. He was 87. “I was thankful he passed after the holidays,” his oldCourtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives est son, Lee Williams, said. Felton Williams “I was expecting it, but you never think that today is going to be the day.” Although Mr. Williams is gone, his store is still buzzing with shoppers, serving as a living testament to his hard work. Mr. Williams’ father had owned a store on the corner of Alsobrook and Coronet streets. He grew up working at the store. But when Mr. Williams returned from the war, he had dreams of starting his own store. “He wanted to be a man and be his own boss,” Williams said. In 1955, Mr. Williams started an enlarged fruit stand on West Baker Street. When it grew, he built a more modern store behind it in the 1960s. Mr. Williams sold the store in the 1970s, bought it back and then sold it again in the 1980s. But he couldn’t stay away from the grocery business for long. In the 1990s, Mr. Williams bought the current property off Maryland Avenue. “Dad was an incredibly hard worker,” Williams said. “Dad thrived on customer service. He wanted to help people. He wanted to give people a good deal.” Williams and his sister, Karen Davis, worked at the store when they were teenagers, bagging gro-
SEE WILLIAMS / PAGE 2 Vol. 1, No. 27 | One section
Obituaries.......... 10
Opinion.................8
Sports................ 11
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WILLIAMS/PAGE 1
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ceries, stocking shelves, helping in the deli and cashiering. They still work at the store, overseeing its operations. “He surrounded himself with people who worked hard like him and who knew their skill with meat,” Williams said. “He was just a very lovable dad,” Davis said. “He was very caring, very giving. He cared about all his employees, what was going on in their lives.” The siblings described their father as compassionate and generous. Williams attributes his father’s desire to help people to his faith and his experience in the military. “Compassion for people was really encouraged during his time in the service, because he saw such suffering,” Williams said. Mr. Williams left for his deployment to England when he was just 17 years old. He was the youngest member of his unit. Mr. Williams had said he had a foxhole conversion one dark night when his ship passed a German u-boat. He got down on his knees and prayed. Since then, he built a family and life with his wife of 68 years, Lucille, based around that faith. Lucille brought him to Eastside Baptist Church, where he became treasurer and a deacon. The couple met when he returned from basic training in 1943. She was working at his father’s store at the time. “He loved her dearly,” Williams said. “He’d get up in the morning and fix her coffee and her fruit. They were a great team.” In addition to the store and his love of God, Williams enjoyed grilling, real estate and spend-
Junior Royalty pageant to kick off festival events
by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
More than 100 Plant City girls will compete for crowns in the 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival Junior Royalty pageant this weekend.
Courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives
ing time at grocery conventions and his mountain home in North Carolina. “He loved to have a good time there,” Davis said. “He prided himself on scaring family on the road up the mountain.” Williams said his father often drove close to the edge of the cliff to scare a cousin. Mr. Williams was a member of the Plant City Lions Club, on the Board of Directors of South Florida Baptist Hospital and many other trade and service organizations. He was named Plant City Citizen of the Year in 2006. “We all say that Dad gave us a
true work ethic,” Davis said. “The way you should give it your best.” “I look back and see what he has done in life,” Williams said. “Where I see the decisions he’s made, how he had to step out on faith, compared to what I’ve done. What I have is all because of him and his chances.” Mr. Williams is survived by his wife of 68 years, Lucille Williams; children, Leland Williams, Karen Davis (Elliot) and Jeff Williams; siblings, Leo Williams, Dorothy Andreu and Jeraldine “Dinky” Cribbs (James); grandchildren, Kayla and Cameron; and many loving nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Carly Knox, 15, is too old to compete in the Florida Strawberry Festival Junior Royalty Pageant this year, but the current queen will make one more appearance as she crowns her successor this weekend. “It’s one of my favorite parts,” Knox said. “I know what it feels like to be where they are and how much you want to win.” The competition has been held since the late 1970s and has moved venues — from the festival grounds to Tomlin Middle School to the TECO Expo Hall. This is the first year it will be held at the Evelyn and Batista Madonia Sr. Agricultural Show Center. The competition features four age categories, with 30 competitors in each. The Baroness is open to 5- to 6-year-olds; Duchess, 7- to 9-year-olds; Princess, 10- to 12-year-olds; and Queen, 13- to 15-year-olds. The competitors are judged on personality (25%), overall appearance (25%) and natural beauty and smile (50%). “It’s not your typical pageant,” chairwoman Donna Keel said. “It’s a community pageant on a glitzy scale. We do allow the girls
If you go
Florida Strawberry Festival Junior Royalty Pageant WHEN: 6 p.m. Jan 12 WHERE: Evelyn and Batista Madonia Sr. Agricultural Show Center, 2301 W. Oak Ave. COST: $10 per ticket to compete in other pageants.” Knox has won the Baroness, Duchess and Queen titles and was first maid twice in the princess division. She attributes her wins to luck but does have some advice for this year’s competitors. “Just have fun with it,” Knox said. “Don’t stress out.” In addition to the crown, winners will receive a sash and trophy. The top winner will represent her age group in the Youth Parade March 2, the Grand Parade March 4, and the annual Florida Strawberry Festival Fashion Show Jan. 24. Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.
Go online for more information about sign-ups for the Little Miss Plant City and Florida Strawberry Festival Baby Parade, PlantCityObserver.com.
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3
MADISON ASTIN
KRISTIN BOZEK
JESSICA BROWN
KELSEY BROWN
SARA BRUMMER
EMILY COLBURN
LINDSEY ENGLISH
PARENTS: Sam and Buffy Astin SCHOOL: Senior, Durant High School ACTIVITIES: Honor student, National Honor Society, Student Government Association president, varsity cheer captain and FFA state finalist of ornamental horticulture demonstration
PARENTS: Melissa BozekPfost and the late Doug Bozek SCHOOL: Freshman, Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: Member of the National FFA, Plant City’s First Baptist Church and the National Honor Society
PARENTS: Kenny and Denise Brown SCHOOL: Senior, Plant City High School ACTIVITIES: Member of National Honor Society, Senior Executive Council, class historian, student council, Civinettes, Students Against Destructive Decisions and FFA
PARENTS: Alicia and Aaron Pues, and Derrick and Angel Brown SCHOOL: Senior, Plant City High School ACTIVITIES: Member of the Civinettes, Students Against Destructive Decisions, National Honor Society and Knights Baptist Church
PARENTS: Jeff and Laura Brummer SCHOOL: Senior, Plant City High School ACTIVITIES: Secretary of the National Honor Society, vice president of the World Language Club, secretary of the senior class, student council secretary and member of the Civinettes
PARENTS: Ron and Pamela Colburn SCHOOL: Home-schooled ACTIVITIES: Volunteers at the YMCA as an assistant home-school PE coach; at St. Clement Catholic Church as a teacher for fourth-grade faith formation; and at the USTA-HCC Tampa Tennis Center as a court monitor
PARENTS: Chrystal English SCHOOL: Junior, Plant City High School ACTIVITIES: FFA vice president, student adviser for the Hillsborough County FFA Federation, member of the Civinettes, National Honor Society, Youth Alive Club and Florida Junior Cattlemen’s Association
KELSEY FRY
EMILY GONZALEZ
PARENTS: Glenn and Kendra Harrell SCHOOL: Senior, Plant City High School School ACTIVITIES: Captain of the school varsity swim team, president of the Ronald McDonald Charity House Club and treasurer of the National Honor Society; member of Plant City’s First Baptist Church
PARENTS: Steve and Kim Gonzalez SCHOOL: Senior, Durant High School School ACTIVITIES: Secretary of the Durant senior council and student leader in the youth group at Victory Worship Center. FFA state competitor for ornamental horticulture demonstrations
DEBRA LENTZ
ERICKA LOTT
PARENTS: Ruth and Ken Lentz SCHOOL: Early admissions student at Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: Airsoft, music and roller-skating
PARENTS: Rick and Dianna Lott SCHOOL: Plant City High School ACTIVITIES: Member of Civinettes, National Honor Society, Students Against Destructive Decisions and Plant City’s First Baptist Church’s youth group. Participates in varsity soccer and volleyball
JULIA JORDAN WILLIAMS
Here they are …
SAMANTHA FARKAS
KAYLA FAULK
PARENTS: George and Lisa Farkas SCHOOL: Sophomore, Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: Member of the Plant City Junior Woman’s Club and Turkey Creek First Baptist College and Career Ministry
PARENTS: Kelly and Michael Mullis SCHOOL: Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: Member of Bethany Baptist Church and volunteers at South Florida Baptist Hospital
NIKKI HONAKER
ASHTON HOUSTON
KATLYN JOYNER
PARENTS: Wendy and David Howell, and Billy Honaker SCHOOL: Senior, Durant High School School ACTIVITIES: Member of FFA, Leo Club and River of Life Christian Center, where she volunteers with church events and the youth group
PARENTS: Shannon Houston, and Travis and Tracey Houston SCHOOL: Freshman, Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: Volunteer at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute
PARENTS: Darren and Lisa Joyner SCHOOL: Senior, Strawberry Crest High School; dual-enrolled in HCC ACTIVITIES: Member of National Honor Society and attends Free Will Baptist Church
HALEY OURS
SARAH PUPILLO
PARENTS: Greg and Sharon Ours SCHOOL: Freshman, Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: Ambassador for the Florida Strawberry Festival Growers Association; member of Bethany Baptist Church and Plant City Junior Woman’s Club
PARENTS: Michael and Katrina Pupillo SCHOOL: Senior, Durant High School ACTIVITIES: Involved with student government, Leo Club and Durant Thespians. Member of National Honor Society and Students All Connected
Twenty-five young women will compete for the title of 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival queen at 6 p.m. Jan. 26, on the festival grounds. Tickets, which go on sale Jan. 14, are $15 each and will be available at Hardee’s Fashions, 1501 N. Wheeler St.; Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan, 102 W. Baker St.; and Regions Bank, 2302 Thonotosassa Road. Reigning queen Chelsea Bowden will crown the winner of this year’s pageant, which is organized by the Plant City Lions Club. Photos of this year’s contestants are courtesy of Stephanie Humphrey, Stephanie Humphrey Photography.
MADISON ‘MADDY’ KEENE
COURTNEY KITCHENS
PARENTS: LaRoyce and Debby Keene SCHOOL: Junior, Plant City High School ACTIVITIES: President of the Civinettes; member of National Honor Society and ASL (Sign Language) Honor Society
PARENTS: John and Toni Kitchens SCHOOL: Plant City High School ACTIVITIES: Member of Future Business Leaders of America, Youth Alive, Civinettes, National Honor Society, chorus and Raider swim team
STEPHANIE TAYLOR
JAMEE TOWNSEND
CATHERINE WELLEN
REBECKAH WELLEN
PARENTS: Scott and Diane Taylor SCHOOL: Senior, Plant City High School ACTIVITIES: Member of the Civinettes, Students Against Destructive Decisions and the National Honor Society. Volunteers as a volleyball coach at the YMCA and Plant City Elite Volleyball Club
PARENTS: James and Cathy Townsend SCHOOL: Senior, Strawberry Crest High School ACTIVITIES: President of FFA, vice president of the senior class council and member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta, Leo Club and varsity volleyball team
PARENTS: Bob and Cathy Wellen SCHOOL: Junior, Seffner Christian Academy ACTIVITIES: Member of the National Honor Society, vice president of the Debate Club and varsity volleyball team, ensemble and chorus. Sings weekly in her church’s praise and worship band
PARENTS: Bob and Cathy Wellen SCHOOL: Senior, Seffner Christian Academy ACTIVITIES: Member of the National Honor Society, president of the Debate Club, member of the varsity basketball team, ensemble and chorus. Projected school valedictorian
PARENTS: Jerrold and Julia Williams SCHOOL: Freshman, Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: Member of the HCC science club and participates in fundraisers for the prevention of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease
4
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2013
tribute by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
Family, friends remember, celebrate Dezeray Jenkins
Trotting to Success Black Dog Farm placed two riders in the top five at the American Eventing Championships in September, in Georgia.
The Plant City 12-year-old died after she was hit by a car last month. But as an organ donor, she was able to give the gift of life to five people. Rotating through a loop of photographs during a slideshow, there was one picture that stuck out to anyone who knew 12-year-old Dezeray Jenkins. She was standing next to a pumpkin with a frown on her face — something she never did. For some reason that day, Dezeray didn’t want to join her relatives and pose for a picture, and her family remembers it, along with other precious memories. The slideshow was shown at Dezeray’s celebration of life picnic Dec. 23, at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex. The Tomlin middle-schooler died Dec. 17 from injuries she sustained after she was hit by a car. “We want Dezeray to be remembered for her pretty smile,” her aunt, Dawn Fusko, said. “She was always smiling at you.”
IN LOVING MEMORY
Dezeray’s family described her as an outgoing, independent, strong-willed girl with a big heart. She was tall for her age and equally as mature. Dezeray loved to play outside and was often barefoot. She couldn’t wait for her family’s monthly picnics and often beat everyone to the sports complex by riding her bike. Growing up with older brothers, Dezeray loved to play football and other sports and go fishing at the Sunshine Skyway. Her brother, Marcus Jenkins, said her death was especially hard on him, because they would take walks together through the neighborhood. “She was always up for anything,” Fusko said. “We’d say, ‘Let’s play dodgeball,’ and she’d be right in the middle.” But she wasn’t just a tomboy. Her aunt, Debbie Wood, said Dezeray also THE ACCIDENT loved to dress up. Doreen Morgan, Dezer- Dezeray Jenkins “She would wear a nice ay’s guardian and granddress, but her hair would mother, was taking a nap between her two be wild, and she would be barefoot, of jobs Dec. 9, when she got the call from po- course,” Wood said, laughing. lice. Dezeray had been riding her bike with Dezeray’s biological mother is Angela a neighborhood friend earlier in the day. Cintron, but her grandmother, Morgan, They were walking in the middle of East had custody of her. They were especially Calhoun Street at about 7 p.m., when she close, and Dezeray liked to sleep with was hit from behind by a 2008 Toyota Co- Morgan. rolla. Nineteen-year-old Aaron Ogilvie was Dezeray also had two younger sisters, driving the car, with 18-year-old Devon Tori and Danielle Fusko. Browning in the passenger seat. “Dezeray is an important link in our According to the Plant City Police De- family, because she was the in-between partment’s incident report, Ogilvie’s vi- kid,” Fusko said at Dezeray’s celebration. sion was impaired because of a glare. “I think she filled the role nicely. At our Dezeray’s family said police told them picnics, she was like a busy bumblebee, another car was driving in the opposite buzzing everywhere. You never knew if direction and that its headlights made it she was in the sandbox with the babies, hard for Ogilvie to see the children walk- playing tackle football with the big boys ing in the middle of the street. or visiting at the ‘old fogey’s table.’ That’s “It was like the perfect storm of events,” where I sit ... the old fogey’s table. (She’d) Ted Fusko, Dezeray’s uncle, said. buzz from one group to the next, giving Drugs and alcohol were not factors in hugs to everyone. I’ve heard she was also the crash. There have been no charges fond of giving smacks to the back of the made, but the investigation is ongoing. head.” Neighbors rushed from houses to help Weeks later, the pain is still intense. Dezeray. She was airlifted to Tampa Gen- Through tears, Fusko spoke from the eral Hospital and had a broken neck and end of the table, remembering her young pelvis and a fractured skull. For eight niece. days, Dezeray remained on life support. “It’s just like a huge hole has been blown The family waited to see if the pressure through our family,” she said. “Just losing in her brain would lower. But on Dec. 17, one person — especially around Christdoctors said she was gone. mastime.” Fusko stood behind the hospital by Choking back tears, Fusko recounted the river and talked with Morgan about a trip to the Suwannee River Music FesDezeray being an organ donor. At first, tival. Dezeray, then 8 years old, wanted Morgan didn’t want Dezeray to be a do- to dance with the barefoot women by nor. But, she changed her mind quickly. the stage, but she was too shy. So Fusko “She’s trying to grasp what life is with- asked the women if Dezeray could join out her baby,” Fusko said. “She had to them, and they welcomed her with open reach deep down and make this choice, arms. instead of saying, ‘I’m done with this.’ I’m “She just wanted to be free all the time,” so proud of her. I’m so proud of Dezy.” Fusko said. Dezeray donated five organs — her liv“That would have been Dezeray,” Wood er, kidneys, pancreas and heart. said. “Just a free spirit, dancing in the dirt “It makes us so happy,” Fusko said. barefoot.” “Happy that they (the recipients’ families) Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurdon’t have to go through what we did.” gensen@plantcityobserver.com.
Black Dog Farm Connemaras and Sports Horses ADDRESS: 6306 Barton Road, Plant City PHONE: (813) 365-0250 WEBSITE: blackdogconnemara.com more property. Davidson found a 40acre piece of land on Barton Road in Plant City but didn’t want so much property. She told friend and Hillsborough County Commissioner Al Higginbotham and his wife, Devon, about the land. Devon asked if she would like to split the property. Davidson took 25 acres, and the Higginbothams took 15. When DeNeve started to board her horses at Black Dog Farm, Davidson took notice of her skills in eventing. Davidson asked DeNeve to teach her the style and has been practicing eventing for two years. DeNeve, who has participated in more than 50 preliminary and intermediate events, has been riding for 20 years and has worked with Olympiclevel riders such as David and Karen O’Connor, Jim Graham and Kyle Carter. Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.
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The season for horse shows has just begun, but Plant City’s Black Dog Farm Connemaras and Sport Horses already has garnered some national acclaim. The farm qualified three horses and sent two riders to the American Eventing Championships in September, in Chattahoochie Hills, Ga. Both riders placed in the top five in their respective divisions. “We were hoping for top-10 finishes and were really happy with the way things turned out,” owner Beth Davidson said. Black Dog Farm trainer Lauren DeNeve competed with Cindy One in the novice horse division and placed second nationally. Cindy One is owned by Jody Harwood. Nataly Pacheco, rider and owner of horse Monte Cristo, pulled out a fourth-place win nationally among 56 entries in the beginner novice rider division. This was the first year riders from Black Dog Farm qualified for the competition. Black Dog Farm specializes in eventing, an Olympic sport rooted in military tradition. The 25-acre farm has one barn with 20 horses. Most are show horses, but some are foals, yearlings and retired show horses that act as “babysitters” to the young horses. A lifelong equestrian, Davidson rode as a child but quit in high school. After college, Davidson opened her own barn and trained many former riders from the Walden Lake equestrian center. After several years, she met her husband, Alan. Together, they decided to acquire
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by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor
Matt Mauney
Bonnie Evans took over All-American Furniture in 2004 when her father, Bud Stover, retired. Plant City is the first branch location for the family-owned business.
All American Furniture expands into Plant City A Lakeland business operating since 1982, All American Furniture has opened a new location off East Baker Street. After attracting Plant City customers to her Lakeland location, All American Furniture owner Bonnie Evans began to consider opening a store in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. She found the perfect spot off East Baker Street while driving through town one day. “When I saw it, I made a U-turn to go back and look at it,” she said. “It just reminded me so much of our store in Lakeland. It was a wonderful fit.” All American Furniture’s Plant City location welcomed its first customers in December with a soft opening and will celebrate its grand opening Jan. 19. The event will feature food and a live remote broadcast from Lakeland-based 97 Country WPCV. All American Furniture is a family-owned and operated furniture and mattress factory/company that has served Lakeland and its surrounding areas since 1982. Evans’ father, Bud Stover, founded the company, and Evans has worked there since 1988. She took over the business when her father retired in 2004 and now runs it with her brother, Doug Stover. Wanting to expand to another location for years, Evans said it just came down to the perfect opportunity. Although she admits it may not be the best time to open a store because of the economy, she felt the opportunity was too good to pass up. “We love Plant City and love the hometown feel it has,” she said. Evans said she even has shopped for supplies for the new office locally. “We are a family-operated business that prides itself on promoting small business, and we hope we can continue to do that
All American Furniture Address: 1312 E. Baker St. Phone: (813) 752-9500 Email: Allamericanplc@gmail.com Website: allamericanfurniturelakeland. com. AllAmericanPC.com will launch soon. here in Plant City,” she said. Evans and her husband, Perry, are familiar with the area. Perry, a cattle rancher, has been a competitor in Plant City’s Pig Jam for many years. His famous brisket took fourth place at the 2012 edition of the annual barbecue competition. All American Furniture offers selections for living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms, including bunk beds, day beds and futons. The store also offers home accessories and decorative items. In addition to the shop’s family-owned feel, Evans said her company believes in supporting the American economy. Ninety percent of its inventory is domestic. “We’re adamant about supporting the U.S. economy, and a lot of our furniture comes from right here in Florida,” she said. According to David Barger, one of Evans’ suppliers from Higdon Furniture, obtaining furniture domestically is no easy task. “It’s quite a challenge to get furniture not made overseas,” Barger said. The Lakeland location includes a stateof-the-art mattress factory. The mattresses are sold at the Plant City location. Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@ plantcityobserver.com.
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NEW YORK CITY. Samantha Farkas and Britney Balliet brought their favorite hometown newspaper with them on a December trip to New York City to visit family and friends.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2013
GAINESVILLE. Richie Long and Samantha Messick shared the Plant City Observer with the statue of Tim Tebow at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium/Florida Field, in Gainesville.
Oh,the
Places You’llGo!
Above: BEAVER CREEK, COLO. Tina and Gary Pike didn’t let the beautiful scenery interfere with their Plant City Observer time while vacationing in Beaver Creek, Colo.
SPOKANE, WASH. Plant City resident Tricia Hoyle, left, brought the Plant City Observer with her on a trip to visit her son, U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Zack Nedwick, and his wife, Chelsea. Zack Nedwick is in SERE training at Fairchild Airforce Base, in Airway Heights, Wash. “I believe it was 29 degrees when we took this picture at about noon,” Tricia says.
FLORENCE, ITALY. Betty Briggs caught up on all her Plant City news while on a belated Mother’s Day trip to Florence and Paris — two of the world’s art capitals. “One thing has stuck with us,” she says. “People all over the world of every race and religion want to experience art (paintings, architecture, music, etc). Perhaps we feel closer to God when we experience creativity, whether in doing it, viewing it or talking about it.”
Left: SAN DIEGO, CALIF. Randy and Laurette Valdez and Esther and George Herron took their favorite hometown newspaper with them to visit the USS Midway aircraft carrier at the USS Midway Museum in San Diego.
TUSCALOOSA, ALA. Earlier this football season, Diane Mabry took the Plant City Observer to a University of Alabama football game. Mabry went to watch the game, as well as Plant City alum Kendall Dawson and the National Champion softball team receive their rings at halftime.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2013
fun on two wheels
Cops
by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor
PLANT CITY
The following information was gathered from incident and arrest reports obtained from the Plant City Police Department.
DEC. 20, 2012 STOLEN SAFE
1700 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Business Burglary. Unknown suspects pried the door lock off the front door with a crow bar and went to the back of the store. The suspects stole the store safe, which contained an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspects fled in a blue car.
PAIN AT THE PUMP
1200 block of Townsgate Court. Battery. Two customers at the convenience store battered each other. Both parties issued a request for prosecution for simple battery.
Mark Provost has been coming to Bike Fest since it started.
Bike Fest cruises into new year After celebrating its 10th anniversary last fall, the Plant City Bike Fest kicked off 2013 with its monthly festival Jan. 5, at McCall Park. Dozens of motorcycles and riders attended the January event, which featured live music, vendors and a 50/50 raffle by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce.
Corner dec. 28, 2012
THERE’S THE BEEF!
4700 block of Dawn Meadow Court. Criminal Mischief. The victim advised she was sitting in the house, when a loud crash came from the rear of the residence. The rear window was broken, with $300 in damages. The object used to break the glass was a frozen piece of ground beef.
WORST NIGHTMARE
1400 block of South Collins Street. Theft. The victim left her purse in a shopping cart. She realized the purse was missing when she went to pay for items. While the victim was at the counter, an individual walked into the store with two of her IDs and her keys, which were found in the parking lot.
710 block of West Madison Street. Domestic Battery. The victim advised he was lying face-down in bed when the suspect jumped on him and began to bite his head. The victim turned over, and the suspect continued to beat on his chest. The suspect and the victim live together as boyfriend and girlfriend. The suspect was arrested for domestic battery and transported to Orient Road Jail.
BUSTED
DEC. 21, 2012
PURSE PROBLEM
1300 block of West Washington Street. Drug Investigation. An officer attempted to make contact with the subjects standing next to a white Lexus at this location, but they walked away as he approached. The officer detected the odor of marijuana emanating from the car as he walked up. The suspect was sitting in the driver’s seat of the vehicle. The suspect attempted several times to push officers away, as well as made several attempts to reach into his pockets. The suspect was arrested for possession of 10.7 grams of marijuana and resisting arrest without violence.
Plant City Chamber of Commerce ambassadors Donna Driggers and Chuck Sullivan enjoyed Johnnie Pierson came with his lit up 2010 working the event. Harley Davidson Super Glide. It took three years to complete the custom look.
7
QUICK CASH
3610 block of Trapnell Ridge Drive. Vehicle Burglary. Unknown suspect(s) entered an unlocked Jeep Liberty and stole $70 cash and some credit cards.
THREE IN A ROW
3500 block of Trapnell Grove Loop. Vehicle Burglaries. Unknown suspect(s) entered an unlocked 2008 blue Honda car and stole a Coach purse, valued at $400, and a Nook Color. While investigating this call, two other vehicles were found burglarized.
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PLANT CITY
“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
Founding Publisher / Felix Haynes Managing Editor / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editors / (Community) Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@ PlantCityObserver.com; (Sports) Matt Mauney, mmauney@PlantCityObserver. com Advertising Executives / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@PlantCityObserver. com; Ronda Kyler, rkyler@ PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Coordinator / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com Accounting Manager / Petra Kirkland, pkirkland@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising-Production Operations Manager / Kathy Payne, kpayne@ yourobserver.com Advertising-Production Coordinator / Brooke Schultheis, bschultheis@ yourobserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Peter Carlson, pcarlson@yourobserver. com; Monica DiMattei, mdimattei@ yourobserver.com; Marjorie Holloway, mholloway@yourobserver.com; Luis Trujillo, ltrujillo@yourobserver.com; Chris Stolz, cstolz@yourobserver.com
If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.
observed | my new ‘do’
Haircut satisfies grandfather’s wishes My eyesight is pretty bad without my glasses. They’re not quite Coke bottles — but they’re close. Most days, I lament my nearsightedness, and all those ads for LASIK catch my attention. But on this day, Dec. 27, 2012, for the first time in my life, I was thankful for the impairment. As I sat in the hairdresser’s torture chamber — with my sister and mother looking on — I couldn’t see the locks fall away as her scissors severed them from my noggin. Instead, I just stared into the blurry abyss, my hands a sweaty mess under the apron. It was finished in less than 15 minutes. And I must have asked my sister 10 times whether she liked it. Then, when the hairdresser seemed satisfied, she handed me my glasses. As my vision jumped back into focus, I stared into the mirror. For the first time in 16 years, the reflection staring back at me didn’t have long, black hair framing his face. It’s a drastic change and one I had been considering for years — and much more seriously for the past six months. The week before we opened the Plant City Observer in June, my wife, two children and I drove to Houston, Texas, for a family emergency. My grandfather had been taken to the hospital, and at the time, we didn’t know how much time he had left. We made the 16-hour trip in
Photos by Ashley Haywood
It took less than 15 minutes for the hairdresser to chop off my long locks. The ponytail is on its way to Locks of Love. one day, arriving at my mother’s house near midnight. The next morning, I stood at the foot of a hospital bed. Somewhere, hidden under snakes of tubes and beeping machines, was my grandfather. With so many things attached to his face, he couldn’t talk. But he was alert enough to listen. For 16 years, my grandfather grilled me about my hair. Mikey, he’d say. When are you going to cut your hair, boy? Golly! You look like a girl! When I lived in Missouri, I’d tell him I needed it to keep me warm. That excuse was rendered invalid the second I arrived in the Sunshine State 12 years ago. I grabbed a hold of my grandfather’s hand, and he squeezed back, letting me know he knew we were there. I told him about the new newspaper, about his great-grandkids.
And, when I felt there wasn’t anything more to say, I blurted out: And Grandpa, I’m going to cut my hair. Grandpa turned his head to me, and I could see him smiling from underneath the oxygen mask. He started kicking his feet, too, which made all of us giggle. It was settled, then. No turning back. Since that visit, my grandfather was able to leave the hospital. He’s at home but requires 24-hour care. He’s comfortable — for the most part — and still can enjoy a piece of his favorite pie now and then. I couldn’t wait to show him my new “do.” “That’s the way I like to see you, Mikey,” he said, smiling. My grandfather is at the point in which all the nurses can do is keep him comfortable. He spends his days in a hospital bed,
CONTACT US
The Plant City Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides free home delivery to several neighborhoods in Plant City. The Plant City Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2013
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bookworms
by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
Knights Elementary students get personal with reading The Plant City students received books that featured each of their names, their teachers and families as parts of the story. When first-graders at Knights Elementary School cracked open the pages of their free book, “School is Fun,” on Dec. 14, they never expected they would be part the story. The surprise came when students realized they were a character in the book and saw their name, teacher and family members incorporated into the text. The program is part of a joint initiative between bookmaker Marla Banta, school social worker Mari Wilensky and sponsor CF Industries. This is the third year the books have been distributed to Knights. Banta always knew she had a unique name. When she was a child, she loved personalized items that had names printed on them, such as keychains and pencils. But she never could find her name on any of the products. When she was 8 years old, her father showed her how to make baby bracelets with lettered beads so she could spell whatever she wanted. She began selling her bracelets. The creative process didn’t stop at childhood. In the 1970s, Banta became involved with a personalized book company and began making and selling books. She quit to raise a family and then
Each book is personalized to include students’ names. picked the career up decades later, selling the books at flea markets, fairs and even Walmart. Through her sales, Banta met a teacher who had a group of students with a low reading level. The teacher thought the books would be a great way to get students reading, so she bought them with her own money. The students were so taken by their names being in the story that their reading levels increased by the end of the year.
This sparked an idea with Banta, who saw the personalized books as an educational tool. Banta decided to start finding sponsors to fund book drives for students. “In many cases, I’ve seen it and heard it,” Banta said. “It encourages reading from an early age.” In the early 2000s, Banta was contacted by Wilensky, who was then a student at the University of Florida and Miss Florida. Wilensky’s pageant platform was literacy, and she wanted to start book drives for students around the state. Together, the duo brought reading to hundreds of schools. When Wilensky got a job at Knights Elementary School, she continued the program and recruited CF Industries as the sponsor. CF Industries has worked with Knights Elementary for years on other educational occasions, such as its preservation project. “Knights is right in our backyard,” CF Industries’ Director of Community Affairs for Phosphate Operations Richard Ghent said. “A lot of our employees live near there and like to be involved.” One of those involved employees is chief chemist Harold Falls,
and my uncle and aunt work in shifts to be with him every day. We don’t know how much longer he’ll be with us, and honestly, I would have shaved it all off completely if that’s what he wanted. A few days later, I posted the before-and-after photos on Facebook. OMG, said my stepmother. I’ve not seen news this big since Metallica cut their hair, added my brother-in-law. Wow! said one of my former drum instructors. Looks nice. You look like an adult now. And my favorite, courtesy of my favorite mother-in-law: Finally! It’s been two weeks since the cut, and I’m still getting used to it. I still use way too much shampoo, and every time I pull on a shirt, my habit is to reach behind to pull the hair over the collar. After we returned to Plant City, I battled a few days of identity crisis — somehow I felt like a part of my being had been snipped off in the process. It’s untrue, of course, and my wife put it best: You’re more than long hair, aren’t you? I sure hope so. And for those who are wondering, yes, my ponytail is on its way to the Locks of Love organization, where it will be made into a hairpiece for children battling long-term medical hair loss. Hopefully, it can bring some joy and comfort to someone who needs it much more than I do.
MANUFACTURING PROCESS
Brooksville-based Marla Banta doesn’t actually write the books she distributes, but she does make them. Children at the schools and day cares that are part of her charity fill out forms that specify their name, teacher, school and family names. She then enters the information into a program, which inserts the names into a prewritten format. After, she prints and cuts the pages, she sets the gluesheets to laminate the covers. Then she staples it all together. “The books is exactly like you would buy at a store,” Banta said.
who initially brought the idea of the program to Ghent’s attention. “Every project is unique, but if you spend anytime with the teachers and administration, they’re dedicated and generous,” Ghent said. “We just feel really grateful to be involved in the project.” Organizers hope to do another drive for second-graders this spring. Banta said she will continue making books for as long as she can. “You’re building a community when you’re putting literacy in the hands of these students who can use it to further their education,” she said. If you know a school or daycare that could benefit from the program, call Marla Banta at (828) 367-5351 or visit her website, stagetricks.com/marlas/. Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2013
9
NEIGHBORS
ART FALCONE After retiring from a Rhode Island fire department and moving to Florida in 1989, Arthur “Art” Falcone found himself looking for a hobby. After meeting his wife, Debbie, his hobby at the time — motorcycles — didn’t quite fit anymore. “She has a herniated disc in her neck, so she couldn’t go for long rides,” he says. Looking for a new hobby, Falcone discovered one in the early 1990s at the Florida State Fair, in Tampa. “They have a fine handcrafted furniture competition that I just stumbled upon randomly,” he says. After chatting with some of the attendees, Falcone discovered the exhibits he was most impressed by were made by amateurs. With no real experience, he began experimenting with woodworking, starting first with small projects, such as bird houses. “I had some beginners tools, and figured I’d give it a try,” he says. Falcone joined the Brandon Woodworkers Club, and after a few years of meetings and attending the state fair to see what oth-
ers were making, Falcone’s work began to improve. He started taking on tougher projects. “I just like to see things that look challenging and see if I can do it,” he says. “There were obviously mistakes made along the way, but you learn from every mistake.” Falcone’s work has come a long way since making birdhouses. Today, his pieces include furniture from different periods, including more artistic works to detailed designs and handcrafted carvings. “Some projects are my own design, while others came from something I see and like and try to put my own touch to it,” he says. One of Falcone’s favorite projects was a replica of an antique 1820 game table he and his wife found browsing one day. “She was going to buy it, and I said, ‘Let me take a shot at it,’ and it came out pretty nice,” he says of the table, which is complete with chess and backgammon boards and two leafs for expansion. One of Falcone’s most artistic pieces is a display ta-
Plant City resident Art Falcone has developed his hobby of woodworking into an impressive collection of furniture and decorative pieces.
ble that has a carved design to appear like a table skirt is being lifted halfway off the table. He even designed a love seat from a business card-sized photo in a magazine. Falcone has sold some of
his pieces on display in a gallery in St. Petersburg but says he does this solely as a hobby. “The different woodworking clubs in the area all compete in a friendly competition to see who can
win the most ribbons at fair competitions,” he says. “The materials are expensive, so I’m certainly not doing this to make a living, but I just like challenging myself to see what I’m capable of.” — Matt Mauney
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Plant city observer
THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2013
OBSERVEROBITUARIES Joan Rowe Ellis, 81 of Plant City, died Dec. 19, 2012, with her daughters, Liz and Suzanne Ellis, at her side. Mrs. Ellis was born on July 25, 1931, in Rome, Ga., and moved to Plant City at age 14. She graduated from Plant City High School in 1949. In 2000, Joan moved to Carrollwood to be close to her surviving daughters. In addition to running a busy household and working for 25 years at her late husband’s dental practice, Mrs. Ellis was active in the Women’s Investment Group and a participant in a women’s bridge club for more than 30 years. Mrs. Ellis was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. John B. Ellis, and her son, Stephen A. Ellis. She is survived by her sister Barbara Blanton, and an extended loving family. In lieu of flowers, friends and family are asked to make a donation in Mrs. Ellis’ name to LifePath Hospice Care or St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. Rogers P. Fisher, 77, of Plant City, died Dec. 23, 2012. Mr. Fisher was born Jan. 12, 1935, to the late Holloway Knight and Leoma Fisher. He was a furnace operator for Owens-Corning Fiberglas, from where he retired after 40 years of service. He is survived by his children, Benjamin P. (Mary) Fisher, Mary
Irene Pless Gough
Irene Pless Gough, 90, died Dec. 24, 2012, at home. She was born in Antioch. Mrs. Gough was preceded in death in 2007 by her husband of 68 years, Robert Gough. Survivors include two sons, Robert B. Gough Jr. (Patricia) and David B. Gough; one daughter, Barbara Burger (Maurice); six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 16 great-great-grandchildren; and two great-greatgreat-grandchildren. Online condolences may be made at wellsmemorial.com.
Reba Doris Keene
Reba Doris Keene, 98, died Dec. 24, 2012, at the Hospice Center near Chattanooga, Tenn. She was born near Adele, Ga., and moved to Florida when she was about 2 years old. She lived in Plant City in the Springhead community until 2007, when she moved to Ooltewah, Tenn. She was an active member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Mrs. Keene had been an honored member of the Plant City Art Club and also served as a Pink Lady at the South Florida Baptist Hospital for many years. Mrs. Keene was predeceased in
2006 by her husband of 74 years, Nathan Keene. She is survived by two daughters, Shirley Loyd (Howard) and Lois Sullivan (Marvin), of Melbourne and Collegedale, Tenn.; and one son, Melvin Keene (Grace), of Ooltewah, Tenn; 11 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and 15 great-great-grandchildren. Online condolences may be offered at wellsmemorial.com.
Alton “Al” L. Kirkland Jr.
Alton “Al” L. Kirkland Jr., 53, died Jan. 7, from heart failure. He was born Jan. 25, 1959. Survivors include his wife, Petra Kirkland; mother, Dorothy Myers; stepfather, K. Charles Myers; brother, Mark S. Kirkland; stepsisters, Deborah J. Mason and Lynda L. Mattson; nephews, Jherico and Hunter; and niece, Isabel. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Jan. 11, at Kersey Funeral Home, 208 E. Lake Stella Drive, Auburndale. Funeral service will be at 11 a.m., also at Kersey.
James Madison Prince II
James Madison Prince II, 59, of Plant City, died Dec. 25, 2012. He was born May 8, 1953, in Hendersonville, N.C. Mr. Prince had worked for years at the Fairlea Dairy Farm. He is survived by his children, James M. Prince III, Michael V. Prince and Wynita Lee Chambers; mother, Martha Tew; sisters, Ann Marie Hoxit, Yolanda Sutliff and
Doris Ailene Randall, 81, of Dover, died Dec. 21, 2012. Born Feb. 5, 1931, in Dover to the late Ola Butler and the late Irma Carr Butler. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Randall Sr.; and two sisters, Helen Smith and Betty Surrency. Survivors include sons, Ralph Jr. (Gloria) and Donnie (Debbie); daughter, Rae Ann Randall (Sharon); sister, Bonnie “Faye” Wetherington; and grandchildren, Carri, Scott, Donnie Jr., and Eric Randall, and Jose and Fermin Gaona. Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome. com.
Love Joy Sands
Love Joy Sands, 80 of Dover, died Dec. 16, 2012, at home. Miss Joy was a pastor with her husband, Bill, for more than 30 years with Evangelists for Jesus Tabernacle and was known by many names — pastor, wife, mother and sister. But most of all, she was known to her heavenly father as redeemed. Born Feb. 13, 1932, in Plant City,
Carl A. Schumacher
Carl A. Schumacher, 83, of Plant City, died Dec. 15, 2012, at home, surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Schumacher was a U.S. Air Force veteran and worked and retired after 26 years at the Vehicle Maintenance Fleet for the U.S. Postal Service, in Lakeland. He was the past owner of Schumacher Grocery Store and a founder of the annual East Hillsborough Law Enforcement Appreciation Ceremony. Mr. Schumacher is survived by his wife of 65 years, Betty; children, Darryl (Mary) Schumacher, Carla (Dan) Hart, Eva (Wayne) Caraway and Gina (Gary) Blake; brothers, Larry, of Plant City, Leroy and Tom; and sisters, Alice Fawcett and Ruth Wood, all of Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Albert and Arabella Schumacher; and brothers, Joe, Ray, Edd, Paul and John Earl. Memorials may be made in Mr. Schumacher’s memory to Lebanon Baptist Church. Online condolences may be made at wellsmemorial.com.
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she was the daughter of the late Nelson Smith and the late Effie Brewer Smith. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, in June 2012. Survivors include sons, Ronald Lariscy, George, Gregory and Jeffrey Sands; daughters, Connie Reed and Cynthia Talarico; one brother, Frederick Smith; 10 grandchildren; and four greatgrandchildren. The family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Miss Joy’s memory to the Evangelists for Jesus Tabernacle children’s program. Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.
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Mary Ellen Ford; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, James M. Prince Sr.; and siblings, Robert L. Prince and Glenda Hoxit. Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome. com.
Sports
YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | SENIORS | COMMUNITY | TENNIS
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Guard Devin Diggs anchors Chargers in holiday tourneys. 14
PLANTCITYObserver.com
THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2013
charity change by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor
Tampa Bay Sentinels still set to play at Otis Andrews The Tampa Bay Storm is foregoing a planned charity flag football game against the Sentinels to attend the funeral of teammate Chandler Williams, who died unexpectedly.
Courtesy photo
The Sentinels, formed in 2008, comprises public-safety officials and military veterans from Tampa Bay. They are a full-contact football team that raises funds for local charities.
show me the mauney
Tentative alignments bolster rivalries A few weeks ago, the Florida High School Athletic Association released the tentative football classification realignment for the 2013-14 and 2014-15 school years. Appeals can be sent to the FHSAA Executive Director Justin Harrison until Jan. 18, but if the proposed realignment holds up, all three area football MATT teams will MAUNEY compete in the same class and district for the next two seasons. The realignment has Plant City, Durant and Strawberry Crest in Class 7A District 8. This would start in the 2013 season and continue through the 2014 season, before another two-year realignment takes place the following spring. This realignment only would be for football, but other reclassifications for other sports should be announced early next year. This would mark the first time all three area schools would be in the same district for football. Durant and Plant City are currently together in Class 7A District 8, but Strawberry Crest, which opened in 2009 and played in Class 6A last season, would move up. This would mark the fifth and sixth consecutive year Durant and Plant City will be in the same district. They were to-
SEE MAUNEY / PAGE 12
After meeting with players and coaches, team officials of the Tampa Bay Storm arena football team have decided to cancel their participation in a charity flag football game in Plant City after the unexpected death of teammate Chandler Williams. Williams, 27, died Sunday while playing in a flag football tournament in South Florida. No cause of death has been released at this time, but it is suspected
that Williams suffered from a heart condition. The Storm was set to play in a charity flag football game Jan. 12, at Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, against the Tampa Bay Sentinels, a full-contact football team comprising of first responders from the Tampa Bay area, including local members of the military. After funeral arrangements were made for Williams for noon
Saturday, in Miami, the Storm met Monday night and made the decision to attend the funeral. “While we were excited to do something in the community and take part in the flag football game for charity, we have suffered a loss in the Storm family,” Storm Vice President of Football Operations Jeff Gooch said in a statement. “We, the team, will
SEE GAME / PAGE 13
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor
Matt Mauney
Kendall Dawson, a former softball standout at Plant City High School and the University of Alabama, started her college coaching career Tuesday as practice opened at St. Leo University.
FOLLOWING HER DREAM
The new year is starting off on a good note for Kendall Dawson, and if it’s anything like last year, 2013 is bound to be a great one. Dawson returned home to Plant City in late December, after graduating from the University of Alabama, where she was a part of the Crimson Tide softball team, which won the first Women’s College World Series in school history and the first for the South Eastern Conference last summer.
It was the best way to end a great career. “The experience I had while at Alabama was unlike anything I’ve ever had,” says Dawson, a former standout for Plant City High School. “These last four years have been a blur.” Now, she is pursuing a dream she has had since beginning her college playing career — coaching. With the help of former PCHS assistant coach Christina Dovale, Dawson recently began a gradu-
Former PCHS softball standout Kendall Dawson began her college coaching career this month after winning the sport’s most coveted prize last summer.
ate assistant coaching position with St. Leo University, a private, non-profit, Roman Catholic liberal arts university 35 miles north of Tampa. Dawson will serve as the bench coach for Lions, a Division II member of the Sunshine State Conference, and assist head coach John Conway in infield and catcher development, as well as help out with the bullpen. She also will be the team’s academic liaison, in addition to re-
cruiting and travel coordinator, duties she says she is learning “on the fly.” “I can relate to the whole recruiting process having gone through it just a few years ago,” she says. “I still remember things that were said to me on visits, so I know that those things stick with you and what you tell recruits and the experience they have with you can make or break their decision.”
SEE DAWSON / PAGE 12
12 PlantCityObserver.com DAWSON/PAGE 11 Dawson began her duties with St. Leo this month. The team began spring practice Tuesday, and Dawson soon will be certified to recruit on and off campus. With school being out for Christmas break, Dawson recently had to show a recruit around by herself. “It was a little nerve-racking,” she said. “But I’m enjoying it.” Through Dovale and Conway, Dawson was able to enroll in a master’s program and begin her grad assistantship during the spring semester. Dawson is pursuing a master’s degree in sports fitness, after earning her bachelor’s degree in kenisiology and exercise science from Alabama. “Education comes first for me,” she says. “I would love to be able to continue to coach and see where that goes, but you have to have a fall-back if that doesn’t work out.”
PERFECT ENDING
Dawson, a senior catcher for the Alabama championship team, not only finished her career being named to the All-SEC Second Team and the SEC All-Defensive Team but also was a key contributor in bringing home the school’s first national championship in softball. She drove in the winning run against California in the semifinals of the WCWS
and hit an RBI single in Game 1 of the championship series against Oklahoma. She also scored a run against the Sooners in the titleclinching Game 3 of the series. Winning a national championship meant a great deal to Dawson and her team, after the Crimson Tide advanced to the WCWS three out of the four years Dawson was at Alabama. “Each time, we suffered heartbreaking losses,” she remembers. “Every year, we had the potential and talent to win it all but always came up short. It meant so much to finally be able to do it.” Dawson finished her career with Alabama as a two-time SEC All-Defensive team honoree and a Second Team All-SEC selection as a senior. She also excelled in the classroom, earning her a place on the SEC Academic Honor Roll as a junior and senior. Starting in 201 games, she finished her playing career with a .988 fielding percentage, committing only 18 errors in 1,507 chances and throwing out a Crimson Tide record 44of-80 base runners. She also got plenty of national exposure, playing on ESPN more than 20 times last season.
Kendall Dawson, a catcher, started in 201 games for the Crimson Tide during her college playing career. Courtesy photo
Plant city observer
THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2013
MAUNEY/PAGE 11
COMING HOME
Dawson returned home on Christmas Eve. With the rigors that come with playing a Division I sport and keeping up with academic studies, she rarely had a chance to come home. She was able to make it down only once — last fall to see her younger brother, Sawyer, play linebacker for the PCHS varsity football team. Sawyer also plays baseball, while Kendall’s older sister, Mackenzie, played softball for Eckerd College and hopes to volunteer as a pitching coach at PCHS. Now at home full-time and commuting to St. Leo, Dawson says it has been an adjustment being away from Tuscaloosa, her home for the last four years. “It’s a strange feeling,” she says. “Sometimes, I feel like I’m still on vacation from school, but I love being home, because I missed my family and friends.” When she isn’t handling duties at St. Leo, Dawson teaches lessons and clinics locally and in Lakeland. “There aren’t many catching coaches in the area, so there is a need for it,” she says. Before taking on her first practice as a college coach, Dawson made the trip to Miami Monday with several of her former teammates to watch her alma mater stomp Notre Dame for the BCS National Championship. Last year was a big one for Alabama — the softball, football, gymnastics and women’s golf programs all won national titles. “We like to consider ourselves ‘Title Town,’” Dawson says. Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver.com.
gether in 2009 and 2010 in Class 5A District 6. If the realignment remains as projected, Brandon and East Bay would remain in Class 7A District 8 to complete the new five-team district. Newsome and Riverview, which played in Class 7A District 8 for the past two seasons, would move to Class 8A District 6. This realignment will be a great thing for football in the Plant City area, as it creates more natural rivalries. Strawberry Crest is the newest program in the area after wrapping up its fourth season last fall. The Chargers have played Plant City the last two seasons and came away with a landmark 21-7 win against the Raiders to open the 2012 season. Strawberry Crest also has played Durant in the past, most recently last year in the spring game. The realignment would guarantee all three schools play each other at least once per year, with the possibility of playing again in the region playoffs, as with the case of Newsome and Durant this past year. Although Durant would keep its rivalry with Plant City and begin one with Strawberry Crest, it would lose its annual rivalry with Lithia-based Newsome, unless the match-up can fall in the non-district schedule. Brandon and East Bay would remain in the same district as Plant City and Durant, keeping those natural rivalries, but Riverview would be following Newsome up a class. On paper, it looks like all three
area programs likely will benefit from this proposal. Although Newsome makes for a good rivalry for Durant, the Wolves were the only real district competition this past season. After all, they handed Durant (11-1) its only loss of the season, and the 28 points scored against the Cougars in the regular season were the most given up by the Durant defense all year. Plant City, which posted a 4-6 record in a rebuilding year with a young team, also should benefit. The Raiders beat Brandon last season 22-20 and had a close loss to East Bay. As the Raiders mature over the next two seasons, they should be a legitimate contender to take one of two spots available for the playoffs. But, no team would benefit more than Strawberry Crest. In addition to finally being in a district with natural geographic rivals, the new classification would remove the Chargers from a district anchored by state powers. For the first two seasons, Strawberry Crest played in Class 2A District 5 for its first two seasons, where it had to compete with state-powers Jesuit and Robinson. The past two seasons, the Chargers had the pleasure of sharing Class 6A District 8 against Armwood and Hillsborough and competitive programs in Sickles, Jefferson and King. The Chargers didn’t play Brandon last season but had wins against both Plant City and East Bay. If this realignment holds up, an improving Strawberry Crest program could be in position to make its first playoff appearance in the next two years.
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GAME/PAGE 11 be there for the family of Chandler and come together to support them through this tough time.” Williams was set to return to the Storm for his second season this spring. The former Florida International University standout led the AFL in 2012 with a 23-yard kickoff return average and caught 83 passes for 996 yards and 17 touchdowns. Originally a seventh round selection by the Minnesota Vikings in 2007, Williams became just the second player from FIU to be drafted. He also spent time with the Miami Dolphins, Atlanta Falcons, Kansas City Chiefs and the Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts.
GAME MUST GO ON
According to Sentinels coach Jim Gaczewski, his team will still participate this Saturday. “Regardless of what happens, we’re going to play,” Gaczewski said. Money raised by the event will benefit the MacDonald Training Center, which has locations in Plant City and Tampa. Gaczewski currently is working to find a new opponent, with possibilities of the Sentinels scrimmaging against themselves, a fellow first-responders team from Orlando or taking on local high school or college players. “We might even play the employees and members of the MacDonald Training Center and just have a great time,” Gaczewski said. “They would love that. We are still planning on it being a great event and a great time.” Founded in 1953, the MacDonald Training Center provides educational, vocational and residential supports for people with disabilities. Tickets to the event are $7 and can be purchased at the gate the day of the game. Children under 5 and people with disabilities get in for free. There also will be auction items and a 50/50 raffle, with all the proceeds going to benefit the MacDonald Training Center.
SIDELINES WRESTLING + Local grapplers earn All-American honors Two Plant City youth wrestlers became All-Americans at the Dixie Nationals Wrestling Championships Dec. 29, at the Georgia World Congress Center, in Atlanta. R.J. Noble, 7, went undefeated in the 60-pound weight class of the 8U division, wrestling in seven matches during the tournament. His older
brother, Truman, 10, placed fourth in the 10U division in the 95-pound weight class. The top six finishers in each division are classified as All-Americans. R.J. and Truman wrestle with Caveman Wrestling Club in Tampa. They also train at the Plant City Family YMCA and have wrestling classes through August on Wednesday and Friday evenings.
SOCCER + Plant City Lancers win Tampa Bay Sun Bowl The 17U Plant City Lancers Boys Premier soccer team took home the championship at the 2013 Tampa Bay Sun Bowl Dec. 27 to 30, in Tampa. It was the 35th anniversary of the national tournament, which attracts college coaches and state teams from across the nation. The Lancers advanced to the finals after four consecutive shutout wins. In the finals on New Year’s Eve, the Lancers defeated another Kentucky team 9-3, with this one ranked eighth in their state. Lancers captain Omar Castro was awarded the MVP in the tournament. “Omar played very well and was honored to receive this award,” said head coach Stephen Rossiter.
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FOOTBALL + Local players shine at combine Five local rising seniors participated in the Under Armour All-American Underclassmen Football Combine Jan. 4, at Tropicana Field. Plant City High had two players participate — offensive lineman Montel McBride and defensive back Jyquis Thomas. They were joined by fellow Class of 2014 defensive end prospect Dontriel Perry, from Durant, and his Cougars teammate, offensive lineman Cody Martin. Strawberry Crest High was represented by Alex Carswell, a wide receiver/ defensive line prospect. Carswell had a good day in receiving drills, with reports that scouts were impressed with his catching ability. Thomas also had a nice day in defensive back drills, while McBride had a chance to defend against some of the best defensive lineman prospects in the country. Only 150 underclassmen prospects were selected for the combine, which is part of the Under Armour All-American game festivities. The combine consisted of skill testing and development work with an NFL alumni coaching staff, including former Strawberry Crest coach Gerald Dickens.
ROLLING ENTERTAINMENT
According to Jim Robinson, media relations manager of the Storm and the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning, Rolling Thunder — an interactive exhibit of the Lightning, a fellow member of the Tampa Bay Sports and Entertainment family — will make an appearance at the event. The appearance will feature the Lightning mascot, ThunderBug, and interactive games. Because of scheduling and training camp conflicts, the game between the Storm and Sentinels cannot be rescheduled, but Robinson said there is a possibility to have additional fundraising efforts for the MacDonald Training Center at a Storm game this upcoming season. This will be the first time in three years the Sentinels and Storm do not play in a benefit game. It would have been the first time the event was held in Plant City.
OUTLET FOR HEROES
The Sentinels plan on making two more stops in Plant City during their four-game regular season, with games set March 23 and April 6 at Otis Andrews. The Sentinels comprises members of law enforcement, corrections, probation/parole officers, firefighters, paramedics/EMTs and members of the military from five counties around Tampa Bay. Notable members include Tim Titus, an Armwood High alum, and Brandon Culpepper, who is from Plant City. The Sentinels, formed in 2008, are the third publicsafety team to form in Tampa Bay, being proceeded by the Guardians, now based in Orlando, and the Tampa Bay Posse. In 2012, the Sentinels had their first winning season, posting a 3-1 record. Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver.com.
This week’s Crossword answers
2012
1. Nowadays, people take comedians more seriously and view politicians as just a very sad joke. 2. People make a big deal about our whopping national debt. I am not worried about the deficit. It’s large enough to take care of itself. CROSS_ANS_011013
100430
This week’s Cryptogram answers
14 PlantCityObserver.com
Plant city observer
THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2013
JUSTTHESTATS DEVIN DIGGS 47 athlete of the week
The number of players listed on the roster of the Tampa Bay Sentinels. The Sentinels are a publicsafety football team comprising first-responders and military veterans in the Tampa Bay area. The team is set to host a benefit event for the MacDonald Training Center at 1 p.m. Saturday, at Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex.
Strawberry Crest senior guard Devin Diggs had a good holiday season on the basketball court. The four-year starter averaged nearly 13 points per game and 5.5 rebounds per game in tournaments. He scored 15 points in a 73-48 win over Clearwater in the Bright House Shootout and had a double-double, with 15 points and 12 rebounds, in a 53-38 loss to Piper in the Adidas Slam, in Miami. You’ve started on varsity since this program began. How have you seen the program grow over the years? When we first started, we didn’t really have all the tools and pieces. I think the tallest person on the team was like 6-1 or 6-2, but we competed and went out every game and played hard.
4.5
The 40-yard-dash time of Plant City High defensive back Jyquis Thomas in the Under Armour All-American Underclassmen Football Combine Jan. 4, at Tropicana Field, in St. Petersburg. The time was one of the fastest of the day in an underclassmen showcase of football players from across the nation.
What are your thoughts on this season so far? It’s been pretty good. We’re still trying to get in the groove to have an open space court so everybody can do their own freestyle play. That’s basically what we run off of —freestyle and transition plays.
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3
The number of second-half goals the undefeated Strawberry Crest boys soccer team scored to run away with a 4-2 win over Riverview Tuesday on the road. The Chargers will face Plant Friday, in Tampa. Strawberry Crest is 10-0-1 this year.
The number of points scored by Strawberry Crest senior guard Karel Hamilton in a 73-48 blowout of Clearwater High School Dec. 21, in the Brighthouse Shootout basketball tournament.
Did your team do any holiday tournaments last year? Yes, we traveled down to Naples for a tournament down there. They had a dunk contest, and I won it, so that was pretty fun.
53
The number of teams currently entered in the ISF/ISSA World Tournament of Champions softball tournament to be held Jan. 25 to 27, in Plant City. The senior slow-pitch tournament has age divisions ranging from 50 to 75.
O B S E RV E R C RO S S WO R D Edited by Timothy E. Parker
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CRYPTOGRAMS 1. C D B Y V Y M T , E P D E X P A Y N P L D H P V G Y C T H D Q P T P Q G D R T X M Y C V K G P B E D X G A G L G Y C T Y T S R TA Y K P Q M T Y V S D N P.
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by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor
What was the experience like participating in two big tournaments this year? It was a great experience and was my second time playing on TV, so that was our goal at the Bright House
tournament — to get to the TV game. We made that, and it opened up a lot of eyes for us to get to the championship game, because a lot of people didn’t expect us to beat Clearwater High School. What are some personal goals for you this year? I try to be a good team player and distribute the ball. That’s one of my goals. Another one would be to get to college. Do you have any schools interested in you? I have a couple interested in me. Dean College and Elon are the main ones right now. What would be some team goals for you this year? Make it down to Lakeland. Our main goal is to beat Sickles and win districts. They beat us last year, but we should have a good chance this year. Do you play any other sports? I run track and field and was an All-State runner. I hope to use that as a way to get to college, too. That will probably open the most doors for me. What would you like to study? Business management or criminal justice
MAKE ROOM by Mary Jersey
ACROSS
60 Begin 62 Gunslinger’s mark 1 Detonate 64 Shape of the 6 Andean drughuman face yielding plants 65 Where Tehran is 11 Home for Walt the capital Kelly’s Pogo 16 Kenyan’s neighbor 66 Host of the 2016 Olympics 17 Grown-up 67 0, in soccer scores 18 “The ___” (Virgil 68 Had on work) 69 Nevada city 20 Full of malice 70 Large ray 21 From Scandinavia 72 Couch potatoes’ 22 What de furniture stenographer 74 Depict unfairly takes? 75 Write a second 24 The Bard’s river film draft 25 Places for feet in 77 Sheep bleat automobiles 79 Petty thieves 28 Fabric ridge 81 Hershey treat 29 Just in or just out 30 “Huckleberry ___” 82 Easy to lift 84 “Mighty 31 Dunderhead Aphrodite” star 32 Word with Sorvino “mouse” or 85 Accent “launch” 88 Amber wine 33 Couples 90 Posers for painters 36 Africa’s longest 94 Household task river 95 Achy 38 West Wing 96 Recycling underling containers 39 Swahili term of 98 Bicycle or piano respect part 41 The Green Giant’s 99 Sphere in a sidekick scepter 43 Like most municipal bonds 100 Sound from a pig 45 Neptune’s largest 101 Penny 103 “Who am ___ moon argue?” 46 Tedious task 48 Places for plaque 104 Hotel rental 106 Certain artisan buildup? 110 Dance movement 49 Ball game 111 Give the right to postponer 113 “For Whom the 50 Space between Bell Tolls” electrodes character 54 Solution for a 114 Mask feature clogged drain 116 Actress Brennan 55 Several southern or Heckart states, once 117 180-degree 59 “Incredible” maneuver comics hero
118 Outdated kind of phone 119 Are able to, to Shakespeare 120 Bassoonist’s buys 121 Unexpected obstacles
53 It’s removed by a stripper 55 Not flexible 56 Conjure up 57 Less common 58 Bunches 61 Decay 63 Lennon’s Yoko 70 Feel longing for 71 ___ by the rules dOwn 72 Title of respect in 1 Start fighting, colonial India militarily 73 Like some 2 Prophetic sign pickings 3 Blockhead 76 “All ___!” (court 4 Adjust, as pillows phrase) 5 Substitute (for) 78 Ripen 6 Vatican dogma 80 Harvester’s haul 7 Trash can 82 Delphinium emanation 83 Three-pointed 8 Parking meter’s hats location 9 “I almost forgot ...” 85 Music for a movie 10 Makes less wobbly 86 King’s chair 87 Like some high11 Jockey’s seat tech factory 12 Smallest machines 13 ___ Arbor, Mich. 88 Da Vinci’s “___ 14 Cat’s plaint Lisa” 15 Heart murmur? 89 All over again 16 Accumulate 91 Magazine VIPs 19 Part of FDR 92 “Read any good 20 Clock parts books ___?” 23 Family car, 93 Incline perhaps 95 Like the “k” in 26 “... and step ___!” “knee” 27 Hopped a freight 97 Disapproving 34 It’s used to see if looks someone’s home 35 Like a ship on the 100 Looks that lookers get ocean floor 102 Check for fit, as 37 Glorify clothes 38 “I Love a Parade” composer Harold 105 “___ 18” (Leon Uris novel) 39 Cheese from 107 Location France 40 Blinds alternative 108 A color in the U.S. flag 42 Harbor vessels 109 Cook’s canful 44 Spider’s parlor 110 Carpet variety invitee 45 Dashboard gauge, 112 You can hang it or take it briefly 47 Persian governors 115 LAX landing approximation 49 Get one’s property back 50 Bake, as eggs 51 Blender setting 52 Arkin and Alda CROSSWORD_011013
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