04.04.13 Plant City Observer

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PLANT CITY

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SPORTS

SPOTLIGHT

exclusive

VSI Tampa Bay opens first season.

J. Myrle Henry wins Heritage Award.

Observer launches I Love Plant City Photo Contest.

PAGE 9

PAGE 3

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FROM PAGEANTS TO PATROL

OUR TOWN

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Bright Beginnings Daycare to close

+ Win a weekend island getaway!

The Plant City Observer, Keel and Curley Winery, Anna Maria Island Resorts and Costco Wholesale have partnered for the first Tampa Bay Blueberry Festival Blueberry Recipe Contest.

All you have to do is submit your favorite blueberry recipe, along with a short paragraph about why it is your favorite.

Five finalists will present their dishes at the festival, April 27 to 28, at Keel and Curley Winery, where a panel of celebrity judges will choose a grand-prize winner.

First place will receive a weekend getaway at an Anna Maria Island Resorts destination; second place will receive a case of Keel and Curley Blueberry Wine and an Exclusive Tour; third place will receive a $100 prize pack, courtesy of Costco Wholesale.

Deadline to enter is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, April 21.

To enter, visit our site, PlantCityObserver.com, and click on the Blueberry Recipe Contest ad. You may also email your entries directly to General Manager Michael Eng, meng@ plantcityobserver.com.

Good luck!

+ Wish Farms to host charity U-pick event Wish Farms will open its farm to the public for an annual charity strawberry U-pick from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

April 6 and 7, at the company’s Duette strawberry farm 37381 S.R. 62, Duette.

All proceeds will benefit Redlands Christian Migrant Association.

Attendees will be able to pick their own berries for $5 per flat, which includes the donation and crate costs. In addition, food banks that supply their own containers will be allowed to pick for free.

RCMA provides child care and early education for children of migrant farm workers and rural, low-income families throughout Florida.

education

More than 100 children attend the Plant City Church of God school.

It will close June 7.

MacKenzie Clark says her work as a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office deputy requires many of the skills she honed as a pageant contestant.

Beauty &

the Beat

Former Miss Central Florida and Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Court member MacKenzie Clark is a proud member of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.

It already was a gloomy day.

Thick clouds hung low in the sky, and the storm-slick streets were ripe for accidents.

Then, the call came over Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Dep. MacKenzie Clark’s radio: 18-month-old drowning victim.

Clark was the first to arrive on-scene. Immediately, her training kicked in, and she

began to administer CPR. But it was too late.

Clark admits many of the calls over her radio seem to run together, but this one sticks out just a little more. That day, that gray day, helped shape her outlook on her career in law enforcement. It was worlds apart from her life just four years earlier, when she was crowned Miss Central Florida, or in 2007, when she represented her hometown of Plant City as a member of the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Court.

But for Clark, the two paths have more in common than one may think.

“It’s a way for me to mentor,”

MacKenzie Clark was crowned Miss Central Florida in 2008.

SEE CLOSING / PAGE 4

Clark says of both law enforcement and pageants. “Whether it’s pageants or now wearing a badge, it’s a way to impact people’s lives. You meet so many people through both. You may only have a few minutes with someone, so you’re first impression really is everything.”

‘A WHOLE NEW WORLD’

Clark didn’t grow up dream-

SEE CLARK / PAGE 4

INDEX Classifieds.......... 14

It seemed like the end of a typical day, when Courtney Singletary picked up her 2-year-old son March 26, from Bright Beginnings Daycare at Plant City Church of God. But when she saw teachers crying, she knew something was wrong.

Singletary was left with one puzzling clue, a letter sent home with her son. The daycare was closing April 5, just 10 days later.

The letter offered little explanation. Signed by the church’s board of directors, the letter stated, “The daycare ministry does not fit in with the long-range vision of Plant City Church of God.” “It was closing without notice or explanation,” Singletary said.

“As a parent, it makes me think, ‘Is something wrong? Do I need to be worried?’”

Like Singletary, mother Suzanne Calder was confused by the explanation. Her 6-year-old son had been a student at the school since he was 3 months old. The family loved the daycare.

“The children should be the vision of the church,” Calder said.

Seeking answers, Calder organized a group of parents to meet at the church the next day. Word of the parents’ outrage already had reached the church and its lead pastor, Robert Herrin. Using social media, parents voiced their

Amber Jurgensen

Many parents chose the preschool because of its curriculum.

Vol. 1, No. 39 | One section

Crossword........... 13

Obituaries..............8

Sports....................9

PlantCityObserver.com

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THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

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THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

3

health matters by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

South Florida completes 2-South renovations The newly-renovated medical/surgical unit opened April 1.

South Florida Baptist Hospital has undergone many renovations within the past year, as part of a plan to revamp and modernize the hospital.

Now, a newly-renovated medical/surgical unit has been added to the list of completed improvements.

The unit, 2-South, which open April 1, will treat patients who will undergo major invasive surgeries and are required to spend at least one night in the hospital.

The entire unit has been renovated, reconfiguring 18 semi-private rooms to become 16 completely private rooms. Each room contains a family area, private bath and shower, 42-inch television and a digital white board.

Tile floors, warm, wooden head-

recognition

boards, and softer lights give the rooms a more hotel-like feel.

Each room also will feature telemetry technology, so patients won’t have to leave the unit to go to the main telemetry center in 2-East.

The $3.8 million unit was designed by architect Curtiss Haynes.

“It’s functional, as well as attractive,” Jim LeHeup, manager of facilities, said.

Before, there were only two community showers in the unit, and each room housed two patients.

Along with the rooms, the nurses’ station was given a new look, with enclosed walls to diminish noise. There are several alcoves and visitor lounges to accommo-

date family and friends.

“Most hospitals build an addition,” Steve Nierman, hospital COO, said. “But, we took an existing space that’s 60 years old and had to transform it.”

The obstetrics unit, known as 3-South, also has undergone renovations. New flooring and a new ceiling have been installed, along with a refurbished nurses’ station and lobby enhanced with wood and glass, similar to the surgical unit.

And it’s not just the inside that is receiving a face lift. The surrounding outside grounds of the hospital has undergone changes as well. A new 119-space parking lot located at the corner of West Reynolds Street and Plant Avenue opened in late February.

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Amber Jurgensen

The nurses’ station at 2-South also received upgrades as part of the most recent renovation.

Hospital officials will continue renovations this year. In June, the hospital will break ground on a $5.7 million expansion to build two new operating rooms. The

project will take about 15 months to complete.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

upcoming by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Junior Woman’s Club to hold first tourney Proceeds will benefit the Plant City Shoe Project, which provides shoes and socks to area elementary school students in need.

Tammy Johnson, Anne Haywood, Bob Edwards and Fred Johnson

Ed and Amanda Verner

Mac and Cookie Smith

Picture-perfect

Party The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center hosted its 2013 Heritage Award Soiree March 28.

The award recipient was J. Myrle Henry, who has received distinguished awards such as the 2001 Outstanding Citizen of the Year and the 2007 Attwood Award for Civic Leadership. Henry has been affiliated with local

historical organizations for many years and served as director and president of the East Hillsborough Historical Society. He is the founder of the Florida Opry and of the Strawberry Classic Car Show.

In his honor, guests dined, sipped champagne and enjoyed music.

Heritage Award recipient J. Myrle Henry, right, and his wife, Tommie

Edwena Haney and Marsha Passmore

Plant City golfers will lace up their shoes this weekend to help put shoes on local children in need at the Plant City Junior Woman’s Club’s first Charity Golf Tournament.

The tournament will take place April 6, at Walden Lake Golf and Country Club. Registration will take place at 7 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 8 a.m. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Plant City Shoe Project, which provides shoes, socks and other school supplies to more than 550 students at local elementary schools each year.

“We wanted to do something that we haven’t done before,” said PCJWC member Tyger Jimenez, one of the event organizers. “We knew there was a large group of people who play golf in Plant City with Walden Lake being here, so we decided to have a golf tournament.”

The club is known for its charity events, including the Baby Parade at the Florida Strawberry Festival and the annual Little Miss Plant City Contest, which was held March 23, at Plant City High School.

“We thought having a golf tournament would be a new way to bring in money for our shoe project,” said member and event organizer Kendelle Jimenez, Tyger’s sister-in-law.

The tournament will feature a visit from the Tampa Bay Lightning cheerleaders, thanks in large part to PCJWC member and fellow cheerleader Crystal Romano. Chili’s and Johnson’s Barbeque will offer food at the event, and a post-tournament party will be held at O’Brien’s Irish Pub. Kendelle said funds have limited PCJWC in years past to be able to provide about 40 pairs of shoes per elementary school.

“We hope, with this tourna-

TOURNAMENT WHEN: April 6; registration at 7 a.m. and a shotgun start at 8 a.m.

WHERE: Walden Lake Golf and Country Club; 2001 Country Club Drive REGISTRATION: Day-of registration is available.

COST: $75 for individual players or $300 for a standard foursome.

INFORMATION: Kendelle Jimenez, (813) 997-3359 or Tyger Jimenez, (813) 5078127 ment, we can raise more money to buy more shoes,” she said.

Each year, participating schools make a list of their students in need. Shoes then are purchased from Payless ShoeSource, and the club, along with corporate donators, go to the schools and deliver the new kicks.

James Hardie Industries has been a supporter of the project, recently adopting a school and providing the needed shoes for those students, including sizing the feet of the children.

“They find it very rewarding,” Tyger said.

Kendelle agrees.

“I’ve participated in the shoe project for the past four years, and all the juniors seem to really enjoy it,” she said. “A lot of these kids receiving shoes have never had new shoes before. Many have only had hand-me-downs.

It’s almost shocking to see their reactions in person. Some even want to keep the new boxes, because they are so happy, and they will run around in their new shoes.”

Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@ plantcityobserver.com.

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CLOSING / 1 confusion on Facebook and flooded the church office with phone calls and emails.

Herrin didn’t return many of the calls, according to parents.

He also didn’t return multiple phone calls and emails from the Plant City Observer staff seeking comment.

The next day, the church issued a second letter that stated the school would remain open until June 7, the end of the school year.

“Pastor Herrin and the board of directors never intended to offend or cause undue inconvenience to any of you,” the later stated. “We hope that this decision will accommodate you and provide you full time to find new arrangements for your children.”

The closing will displace 108 students and 22 teachers. According to church member Cheryl Johnston, about 20 families already have left the school in search of another option.

Many of the schools in the area already have waiting lists.

The day after the first letter was issued, Calder took a day off work to find her son a new school, before other parents filled any open slots. She was lucky to get him enrolled in Kindercare at Walden Lake.

“I’m sorry, but I don’t know how you think a week and a half is enough time to find a new daycare,” Calder said.

Singletary still hasn’t found a new school for her son.

“I have no idea what I am going to do,” she said.

Kim Shouse, director of Plant City’s First Baptist Church Learning Center, said her two openings were filled the day

the first letter was released. The school currently is considering options to expand to accommodate more students in the future, she said.

During the parents meeting last Wednesday, parents were able to speak to church faculty, who parents said were not open about why the daycare was closing. Herrin made an appearance during the last 15 minutes of the meeting.

“The pastor was very apologetic and remorseful about the way the letter went out,” Calder said.

He shared that out of the 108 attending children, only eight students were members of the church.

“My opinion is that they feel the daycare is in the way of the church,” Calder said.

Calder said Herrin felt his faculty and resources were more focused on the daycare rather than the church even though the majority of students weren’t members. Calder and other parents expressed that they were never approached about becoming members.

“I wish we had more information about the real reasons why,” Calder said.

Bright Beginnings was a popular option for parents because it utilized the A Beka curriculum, which integrates education into play.

“The play really enhances the learning ability,” Singletary, an educator at Durant, said. “Education is what is going to help my kids make it through life.

“This is not just a daycare,” she said. “I’m not looking for a babysitter. It’s a quality preschool.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

CLARK / 1 ing of a being a pageant girl.

There were no “little miss” pageants or junior royalty competitions.

In high school, she was athletic, playing soccer and golf at Kathleen High School, in Lakeland, where she attended, after spending her childhood in Plant City.

When she was 20, while taking classes at Hillsborough Community College in Plant City, Clark decided to sign up for the Florida Strawberry Festival pageant, an annual tradition in Plant City that kicks off festival season. It was her last opportunity to do so: Age 20 is the cut off.

“Because my family’s from Plant City, I really wanted to do it and be a part of it,” Clark says. “I knew a lot of people with the Florida Strawberry Festival, and my family has been intertwined with it for so many years. It was just something that I figured I would give a shot and see where it led.”

After earning a spot on the 2007 court and upholding the responsibilities that came with it, Clark competed and won Miss Central Florida a year later. That victory gave her extra scholarship money to use for school and qualified her for the Miss Florida Pageant, a preliminary competition for the Miss America Pageant.

“I didn’t really know what to expect from pageants, and it definitely is a whole new world,” she says. “It was a great experience. Knowing that I wanted to do broadcast journalism, it helped with the public-speaking aspects.

“For me, it wasn’t about being a winner or showing what I’ve got over someone else,” Clark says. “It had a lot to do with the camaraderie and the teamwork and the

opportunities that it could present to you. You have to look at it as a way to develop you as a person.”

‘I DON’T SEE MYSELF AS MY IMAGE’

Years before pageant participation, Clark harbored dreams of serving in the military. But with an academic scholarship, she chose to hold off to pursue a degree in broadcast journalism at the University of South Florida.

After four years in school, Clark had a decision to make: pursue a career in TV or follow her desire for public service.

“Trying to think of some way to stay local and still serve in some capacity and help others, law enforcement piqued my interest,” she says.

It was something she never considered before, but the more she learned about it, the more she saw there were many similarities to what was drawing her to the military.

“I know it sounds funny, but I was to be a reporter with a journalism background in college, and here I am doing that in law enforcement,” she says. “I’m still getting the whole story. The difference is that I take it a step further, making something happen with whatever information I obtain.”

Clark, who joined the Sheriff’s Office in 2011, has enjoyed the teamwork and camaraderie aspects of law enforcement.

“We all have different ways in how we look at law enforcement, depending on different encounters you have with them,” she says. “I’ve seen how much of an aspect we really play in people’s lives and the role that we play.

The variety of things that I’ve encountered, I think that if you don’t grow as a person in any career,

you definitely grow in this career.”

And although pageant life is in her past, Clark often fields questions and comments about her appearance — even when on duty and in full uniform.

“I go to get something to eat, and people are like, ‘You’re too pretty to be a cop,’” she says. “It happens all the time, but I don’t see myself like that. I don’t see myself as my image. I see myself as the job that I do and that I perform and I just want to do well at what I’m required to do and go above and beyond as available.”

‘THE BEST DEPUTY I CAN BE’

To this day, Clark doesn’t talk about work with her father, Robert.

“I think he always thought that I would have a desk job, and it wasn’t until I was deputized that I think he realized that I would be on patrol, in a car, and by myself,” she says. “I know he just worries about me, so I try not to talk about my work when I’m around him.”

Many of her friends, including ones she made through the pageant circuit, were surprised and confused by Clark’s career choice.

“Some of them can’t believe it,” she says. “My interest in the military and later law enforcement wasn’t something that I really publicized.”

Other areas of law enforcement, including the public information sector, has piqued her interest and could be options in the future, because it relates to her degree.

But for now, Clark is enjoying serving on the front lines.

“I just want to become the best deputy I can be and grow from there,” she says.

Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver. com.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

relay for life

5

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Plant City High the perfect host for annual Relay for Life

Plant City’s Relay has called PCHS home for 15 years.

For one night every year, also is one of the local about 2,000 people call the RELAY FOR LIFE Relay’s largest fundraisfootball field at Plant City ing organizations. The WHEN: 6 p.m. April 19 High School home. Busischool participates all year, WHERE: Plant City High nesses, churches and other through activities such as School, 1 Raider Place organizations erect more sock hops, flower grams, INFORMATION: main. than 70 booths, and perforkickball tournaments, Tacsevents.org mances and other activities shirt and bake sales. And transform the field into a before the Relay, the school miniature city for Plant City’s Relay for Life. hallways turn into a sea of pink, with stuIt’s a huge undertaking, but one that dents and faculty rocking their cancer gear.

PCHS has assumed for the past 15 years.

The school was inspired to be a part of “We get so pumped up,” cosmetology Relay after losing two teachers and an adteacher Laurel Ritenbaugh said. ministrator.

Hosting the event takes months of plan“Everyone knows Plant City High School ning. Much of the work falls on Traci Dur- and associates it with Relay for Life,” Herrance, assistant principal for administra- man said. tion, and the Relay for Life logistics team.

Ritenbaugh wanted to do something with “Traci makes sure we get everything we the cosmetology department when one of need and takes care of all those details — her students, Megan Carpenter, died from from making sure the sprinklers won’t go cancer at 17. At the Relay, the cosmetology off to making sure the lights turn off dur- department runs a makeup and nail booth, ing the candlelight vigil,” Relay chair Linda where young girls can get a “fairy princess” Herman said. makeover. At the end of their makeover, On the morning of the Relay, members Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Kelsey from the logistics team go out to the field Fry will declare them a fairy princess. and paint lines on the field for the booths.

“We try to teach the students, at the end ROTC members help the logistics team pre- of the day, you’re judged by the person you pare for the long — but fun — night ahead. are, not your GPA,” Ritenbaugh said. “We Carpentry students have made toilet pa- want them to learn this life lesson.” per-roll holders and a throne for the cosmeAt the end of the event, each participattology’s fairy princess booth. Best Buddies ing group is responsible for cleaning up its and English as a Second Language students area. But again, the event coordinators and sell delicious treats, such as homemade ta- the students join together to clean up any cos during the event. And the FFA Depart- remaining messes. ment brings their trucks to help load and “We’re just honored to do it,” Ritenbaugh unload equipment for the Relay tents. said.

“Everyone pitches in,” Ritenbaugh said.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@ In addition to its duties as host, PCHS plantcityobserver.com.

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CRIME

THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

FOOD ON WHEELS

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Burglars strike new Unique cuisine to roll into P.C. Parkesdale Farm Market invited several food trucks to Plant motorsports shop City as part of an event to bid adieu to the strawberry season.

The thieves stole about $5,000 in bikes and equipment.

Robbery suspects could be in jail right now for stealing four dirt bikes, two goggles and two quarts of oil, thanks to Plant City Motorsports’ $1,500 night-vision security system.

Unfortunately, the shop, which opened just last month, did not yet have the system installed.

“Whoever broke in just took a 50-50 chance (of) knowing that we were a new business if we had our security setup or not,” partner Chad McKee said.

According to Plant City Police Department reports, a friend of the shop’s owners called March 23, to report a green 250 Kawasaki dirt bike outside of the building, 203 E. Baker St. Upon arriving at the shop, McKee discovered the burglars smashed a large window on the west side of the business and the bike behind the shop.

Inside, he discovered goggles, oil and three other bikes — a red Honda 125, a blue Yamaha 250 and a green Honda CR 500 — also were stolen.

After police arrived, the 500 CR was found abandoned in a wooded area off Damon Street, west of Michigan Avenue.

All stolen inventory was part of a shipment from California.

One piece of inventory the thieves left behind was more valuable than the stolen bikes — a 1978 Bob Hannah vintage YZ250 Yamaha.

“I was really surprised they didn’t take that,” McKee said.

The shop plans to install its security system within a few weeks.

Owners also will install bars on the showroom windows to prevent burglars from being able to remove bikes from the shop. Employees are taking care to lock every single door and are securing the bikes in a room with a reinforced door.

“What can you do?” McKee said.

“Stuff like this happens. That’s why you have insurance.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

HOW TO HELP

If you have any information regarding this case, call the Plant City Police Department, (813) 757-9200.

It’s a million-dollar question — one Xiomara Meeks fields every year: What’s the last day Parkesdale Farm Market will be selling strawberry shortcakes?

Although the exact date is unknown, Parkesdale usually stops serving them when its shipment of strawberries stops, around mid- to late-April. Meeks tries to let people know when the last day will be on the company’s Facebook page.

But this year, Meeks has organized an event to celebrate the closing of strawberry season. She has invited three food trucks from the Tampa Bay area to come to the market April 7.

Rollin’ Zoinks will offer an assortment of chicken, pork, scallops and steak served with sautéed vegetables, such as onions, mushrooms, peppers and green beans.

Maggie on the Move dishes out Mediterranean fusion, with classic greek ingredients, such as hummus, pita, tzatziki and olives.

Renny’s Oki Doki offers Asianinspired cuisine. Born in Iwakuni, Japan, Renny Braga always wanted to open his own restaurant. He started his food truck with favorites, such as pork spring rolls, stir fried soba noodles and teriyaki.

Meeks noticed that food trucks have been a

big trend in the industry in recent years. So, she set out to find some local trucks for her event.

She had a list of 10 trucks, but three made the final cut.

“These three trucks come highly recommended,” Meeks said. “I saw pictures of their food they post online or on social media, and it looks really impressive.”

Meeks can’t wait to try food from all three businesses. She’s particularly excited about the Japanese noodles, seared scallop wrap and anything Mediterranean.

With the trucks rolling in from as far away as St. Petersburg, Meeks hopes they will draw their foodie following to Parkesdale.

“We’re hoping to bring out a big turnout, so we can do this every year,” Meeks said. “Not only is it promoting Parkesdale, (but also) it’s promoting Plant City. If people come out for the

FOOD TRUCK EVENT WHEN: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

April 7 WHERE: Parkesdale Farm Market, 3702 W. Baker St. PHONE: (813) 752-0502 event, they can also explore the town.”

Besides the tourism aspect, the main reason for the event is to give shortcake-lovers a chance to devour one last dish before they go out of season.

Parkesdale serves the cakes from January until April. On its busiest day of shortcake sales, Parkesdale sold 3,000. On any given day, a line can be seen stretched around the side of the market, resembling a wait for an amusement-park ride.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

7

faith by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Plant City celebrates Easter

Kiara Reifschneider and Austin Hoyt acted silly before their hunt.

Zeyda Ortiz, 7, scooped up 18 eggs and scored a coupon for a free taco.

Kids enjoyed riding this Thomas the Tank Engine train.

Frontline Youth Alliance at Trinity United Methodist Church completes the Cross Walk every year.

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From Trinity United Methodist Church’s Frontline Youth Group’s annual Cross Walk on Good Friday to the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department’s annual City-Wide Easter Egg Hunt March 30, Plant City residents enjoyed meaningful, faith-filled fun to celebrate the season.

Frontline’s walk featured members of the youth group carrying a large wooden cross, while others held signs that said, “Trinity United Methodist Youth,” and “Jesus’ Blood Shed for You.” “Our goal is to impact this city and remind people of the story of the cross,” said Frontline Youth Alliance Pastor Stetson Glass.

“We don’t necessarily want to get people to our church, but we want to impact them to remember what Good Friday and Easter are about.”

At the annual egg hunt, hundreds of happy hunters hit the fields at Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex. Parents and children enjoyed train rides, bounce houses and getting photographed with the Easter Bunny.

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Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

OBSERVEROBITUARIES New law would stiffen TALLAHASSEE REPORT

William ‘Blackie’ Fred Blackmon

William “Blackie” Fred Blackmon, 80, of Plant City, died March 31, 2013.

Born May 19, 1932, in Rock Mills, Ala., he was the son of the late Ezra Blackmon and the late Eva Hendley Blackmon. He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita Mason Blackmon.

Mr. Blackmon was a motorcycle mechanic, who raced motorcycles for 20 years in North Carolina and Florida. He was a big NASCAR fan and loved to fish.

Survivors include sons, Curtis Blackmon (Fleita) and Kenny Blackmon (Andrea); daughter, Eva Sue Blackmon; brothers, Olen Burl, Arnold, Almon Hollis, Curtis Wayne and Phillip Blackmon; sister, Lucille Bolling; grandchildren, Logan Michael, Brandon James and Beth Nicole Blackmon.

He was preceded in death by his son, William Fred Blackmon Jr. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m.

April 6, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Edith Nell Ervin

Edith Nell Ervin, 67, of Plant City, died March 25, 2013, at her home.

She was born March 12, 1946, to the late Gaston Powell and late Una Vae Taylor.

She is survived by her son, Johnny Ervin; grandchildren, Latasha, Johnny, Haley and Alexis; great-grandchildren, Thomas and Kaylynn; and lots of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by brother, Richard Powell.

A memorial service will be held 3 p.m. April 5, 2013, at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Faye Booth Gorman

utility-theft punishments

Faye Booth Gorman, 75, of Plant City, died March 29, 2013.

She was born Dec. 4, 1937, in Plant City, to the late Jay and Vera Booth. She was the wife of James “Dan” Gorman for 43 years.

Mrs. Gorman was a 1955 graduate of the Plant City High School and a member of Shiloh Baptist Church.

Survivors include her son, Buddy Gorman; daughters, Lynna Clendening (Jerry) and Leigh Ann Osborne (John); sisters, Frieda Causey and Pat Dorsey (Ed); grandchildren, John Daniel, Danielle Goff (Jonathon), Hannah and Haley Clendening; and great-grandchildren, Alleigh, Easton and Mason.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Robert M. Booth.

A Celebration of Life will be at 6:30 p.m. April 4, 2013, at Shiloh Baptist Church, 1104 Cason St. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Florida Baptist Children’s Home or Stepping Stone Farms.

Online condolences may be made to haughtfuneralhome.com.

The 2013 legislative session is under in electricity, you could be charged with a way, and we are hard at work representfelony, just the same as if you had stolen ing District 58, in Tallahassee. $10,000 in jewelry. This change hopefully I wanted to take a moment to tell you would be a deterrent for many criminals, about one of the important issues we are and also it would enable law enforceworking on this session, which deals with ment, the companies involved and utility the theft of utility services. customers to be placed in a better posiOver the years, theft of electriction, too, to seek restitution for ity has become more of an issue the utilities stolen. By doing so, for utility services and their custhe cost of the theft does not have tomers, and Florida’s laws haven’t to be passed along to customers kept up with the times. Currently, in the form of higher electric rates. the criminal penalty for stealing In the case of electric cooperautility services is a misdemeanor, tives, this is especially important, as prescribed in Ch. 812.14 of the because each customer is a memFlorida Statutes, regardless of ber and owner of the business, as the dollar value of the electricity well, and members are especially REP. DAN vulnerable to rate changes. stolen.

RAULERSON Tampa Electric Company alone I am proud to say that House reports more than $4 million in Bill 191, Theft of Utility Services, electricity has been stolen over the past has favorably passed the Criminal Justice few years in the Tampa area, and the Subcommittee, the Justice AppropriaFlorida Public Service Commission estitions Subcommittee and the Judiciary mates more than $1 billion in electricity Committee, and is ready for a final vote of is stolen every year in our state. the floor of the Florida House of RepreMost of the cases involving prosecusentatives. We look forward to passing tion for theft of utility services are related this bill into law soon and helping to to grow houses, because of the volume bring an end to the utility theft free ride of electricity that has been stolen. In the that has lasted too long at the expense of case of grow houses, utility theft is often a law-abiding Floridians. sophisticated operation and can involve If you would like to find out more stealing more than $40,000 dollars in information about this bill, or any others electricity each month. being sponsored, you can visit myfloridaUnfortunately, the existing criminal house.gov and click on the “Bills” tab. penalties and minimum civil penalties Thank you for allowing me to reprehave not been successful in deterring sent you in Tallahassee, and please let us these thefts. Under the current law, susknow if you ever are planning to visit the pects face just a misdemeanor charge for Florida State Capitol during the Legislathis massive theft. tive session. We would love for you to We are changing the law to more come by our office for a visit! closely match the penalties faced for theft State Rep. Dan Raulerson represents of other commodities. If you steal $10,000 District 58.

John Robert Sapp Jr.

John Robert Sapp Jr., 23, of Dover, died March 25, 2013.

Born Aug. 23, 1989, in Tampa, he was the son of John Sapp and Patricia Johnson Sapp.

He attended Turkey Creek Church of God. He was known for writing stories, singing, dancing and playing video games.

Surviving include brother, Joshua Sapp; maternal grandparents, Billy and Doris Johnson; paternal grandmother, Shirley Sapp; and uncles, aunts and cousins.

Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

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Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | SENIORS | COMMUNITY | TENNIS

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Margo Butler reaches new heights. 11

PLANTCITYObserver.com

THURSDAY, april 4, 2013

kicking off by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

VSI Tampa Bay brings pro soccer to Plant City One of the four United Soccer League franchises under VisionPro, the VSI Tampa Bay pro squad, will hold its home opener April 13.

Courtesy photo

VSI Tampa Bay FC took on Phoenix March 30, in the season opener, at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium in Arizona.

SHOW ME THE MAUNEY

Pro soccer a good fit for Plant City As I’ve written before, after League All-Star teams. accepting this job, I thorThen, I began pondering oughly researched Plant City what kind of effect having a and its sports scene. pro sports team again would Being the sports historian have on this city and how I like to claim to be, I found people here would receive out about Plant City Stadium the VSI teams. and how it was the former There’s no denying that spring training home to soccer has a large presthe Cincinnati Reds. Even ence in Plant City. The Plant though the Reds left City Recreation and town when I was 10, Parks Department/ long before I had Optimist Club Youth heard of Plant City Soccer program has or had aspirations of a long and successful being a sports writer, history, and the Plant I was disappointed City Lancers club orI wouldn’t have the ganization has seen chance to cover a tremendous growth professional sports and success in the MATT team in the Winter last few years.

MAUNEY Strawberry Capital of All six high school the World. soccer programs All that changed last week (boys and girls) have seen rewhen the city agreed to purcent success and are steadily sue a short-term lease with growing.

VisionPro Sports Institute Although the current Inc. The soccer organization lease is short-term, there is plans to lease the stadium at a possibility of VSI making a least through August for its long-term home in Plant City, four United Soccer League which will open up possibilifranchises, including a USL ties for other initiatives of the Pro squad. organization, which hopes to That’s right: Professional add an international residensports is coming back to tial training academy, with Plant City. three feeder satellite acadWhen I heard the news, emies in the Tampa Bay area. my mind began racing. Of Just think about the ramificacourse, I Googled the organi- tions of Plant City becoming zation and the USL to learn a part of those plans. Having as much as I could. I then a world-class soccer acadbegan pondering all of great emy in our own backyard stories and features that could mean a boost — both could come out of this news. economically and from an I was also a little bit thank- athletic standpoint. ful, as this will keep me busy With the rate youth-soccer this summer — generally a participation is growing in slow sports time — between the area, that likely would our coverage of increase participation numPlant City’s bers and begin to rival the talented popularity of baseball and Little football in the area.

Also, with the Hispanic population comprising nearly 30% of the city’s demographics, there is a culture

SEE MAUNEY / PAGE 12

It has been 15 years since a professional sports team called Plant City home, but with the recent agreement between VisionPro Sports Institute Inc. and city commissioners, that soon will change.

VisionPro’s United Soccer League pro squad, VSI Tampa Bay

FC, will play its inaugural season at Plant City Stadium, the former spring training home of the Cincinnati Reds baseball.

After Plant City commissioners agreed March 25 to pursue a short-term lease agreement for the stadium with VisionPro,

work began to convert the stadium from a softball field to a soccer complex. VSI Tampa Bay FC, which will carry the nickname Flames, will hold its USL home opener when they host the Roch-

SEE VSI / PAGE 12

scout’s honor by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Matt Mauney

Coaches Gerold Dickens, left, and Hasani Jackson, right, have helped local standouts, such as Plant City’s Montel McBride, center, get exposed to colleges.

Maximum

Exposure Next Level Sports helps make dreams of playing in college come true for local football standouts.

With competition of college football recruiting at an all-time high, there is no such thing as too much exposure.

And with recruiting hotbeds existing in heavily populated metropolitan areas, athletes in more rural areas such as Plant City often are overlooked.

Gerold Dickens and Hasani Jackson have been doing everything they can to prevent that from happening.

“Coach Dickens and I grew up in this area and have seen how things can be with kids getting swept up under the rug and under the radar,” said Jackson, a former player at the University of Tennessee. “We’re just trying to get these kids out of here and get them exposed as much as possible.”

The two former Plant City High standouts developed what would become Next Level Sports Recruiting in 2007, when they ran the re-

cruiting department at PCHS as assistant coaches for the program, helping players get noticed by college recruiters.

In the last two years, Next Level has grown to a successful threephase exposure operation, with a camp division (Team Next Level), a 7-on-7 team comprising Plant City-area athletes (Elite Squad) and 7-on-7 U, a statewide high school 7-on-7 tournament series.

Dickens and Jackson are state directors for 7-on-7 U, which will hold a tournament for Central Florida high schools in Plant City and send the winner to compete for a national championship in July, in Washington, D.C. “We aim to get the kids maximum exposure,” said Dickens, a former head coach at Strawberry Crest and a former standout linebacker at the University of Florida.

“We use the connections that we have to get the kids involved with the camps,” Dickens said.

Each phase gives a platform

SEE NEXT LEVEL / PAGE 12

10

Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

spotlight

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

HCC is having a great season at the JUCO level.

HCC softball holding home games in P.C.

We’re growing a future for creatures great and small.

Head coach Ray Seymour gave his team advice after their Game 1 win.

That’s our promise.

As Mosaic produces essential phosphate crop nutrients to help the

The Hillsborough Community College softball team split a series with South Florida State College March 28, at the Randy Larson Four-Plex, in Plant City.

The Hawks, based out of the main HCC campus in Tampa, are playing home games in Plant City through April.

HCC took the first game with SFSC 3-1, despite SFSC loading the bases twice. SFSC took the second game of the double-header 7-6.

HCC is having a successful season with a 32-17 record and a 6-2 conference record.

The Hawks will host Polk State College April 4, at the Randy Larson Four-Plex. Game 1 begins at 5 p.m.

Left: South Florida State College has campuses in Highlands, DeSoto and Hardee counties.

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HCC was disciplined on the base path in Game 1.

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Sophomore pitcher Laura Downs was excellent on the mound in the first game.

THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

athlete of the week

PlantCityObserver.com

11

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

MARGO BUTLER

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Durant High School senior Margo Butler tried pole-vaulting when she was a sophomore, looking for something fun and different to do. With a natural talent for the unique track-and-field event, Butler has found success, including recently taking first place at Western Conference, with a personal best vault of 8-3. With few trainers in the area, Butler takes vaulting lessons two hours away in Melbourne.

What do you like about it?

I like to be different, and it’s unique, because not many people did it. I ended up being pretty good at it.

How have you done in previous seasons?

Last year I got fifth at regionals and just missed making state.

to higher poles, so I can go higher.

How did you get involved with Pole Vault City?

My dad started talking with a parent at one of the meets, and her daughter had gone there and gotten two feet higher than her normal vaults. So, we looked it up and went over there. It’s really good, and it helps me, because a lot of girls that go there have 11, 12 or 13 feet easily, so it kind of pushes me to go higher.

When you first took up vaulting, what did you think about it?

I obviously wasn’t very good at first, but I used to do gymnastics, so it kind of resembles that.

You just have to have the right technique.

Is it safe to say you hope to qualify this year?

Yes, but it’s going to be tough. State is actually on my birthday this year.

Honestly, I haven’t been practicing that much, because I work all the time, but I go to Pole Vault City, in Melbourne, and train there with coach Bobby (Haeck).

Outside of sports, what keeps you busy?

I work all the time at You Say When Yogurt Shoppe.

On what areas have you been working?

Just running faster and improving my technique. Also trying to graduate

Would you like to vault in college?

If I can get my heights up, I would love to do it in college, even if it’s a small college.

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What got you into pole vaulting?

I ran track and my brother did pole-vaulting when he was in high school and was pretty good at it. I was just running track, and my best friend and I both did it that first year together. I just tried it, and it just kind of stuck.

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PlantCityObserver.com

present that likely would take well to a pro soccer franchise.

There is also potential for VSI Tampa Bay FC to pull significant numbers from both Tampa and Lakeland, with Plant City’s central location to those heavily populated areas.

Being a huge baseball fan, I would be lying if I said the dream of having an MLB team call Plant City its home during March didn’t still exist. With the city currently seeking a long-term tenant or an outright buyer for the stadium, I suppose that dream is still alive.

But in the meantime, it will be exciting to have a professional sports team call Plant City home, and this time, I will be here to witness it.

ester Rhinos April 13, at the stadium.

That timeline gives VisionPro less than three weeks from the lease agreement approval to get the stadium ready to host a professional soccer match.

“Things are going great, and some major things are going into motion this week,” said Director of Soccer Clay Roberts, a former Plant City High School soccer player and alumnus. “We’re excited about making a home in Plant City and are looking to build a long-term relationship there.”

The existing clay area at the stadium is being replaced with appropriate sod and irrigation.

The outfield fencing also is being reconfigured, and bleachers will be added to the outfield, as well as temporary visiting-team

NEXT LEVEL /PAGE 9

BEST OF THE BEST

for different athletes and position players. Skill players, such as quarterbacks, defensive backs and wide receivers, are shown off in 7-on-7 games and tournaments, while the bigger athletes, such as offensive and defensive linemen, showcase their skills in combines and camps, along with some of the skill position players.

In January, five members of Team Next Level were invited to participate in an NFL-style combine at the Under Armour AllAmerican Football Combine, at Tropicana Field, in St. Petersburg.

Those players included Plant City’s Montel McBride and Jyquis Thomas, Durant’s Dontriel Perry and Cody Martin, and Alex Carswell, from Strawberry Crest.

The list of talented prospects under Next Level is long, but no two athletes have stood out more than Plant City High’s McBride and Sedrick King.

McBride, a 6-4, 305-pound offensive and defensive lineman, has been reeling in offers this offseason. The junior currently has six offers, including Florida State, Kentucky and South Florida.

“Montel has been our big headliner,” Dickens said. “When it comes to the camps, we make our contacts, and once we make our contacts, it’s up to the prospect to get involved.”

McBride hasn’t just been involved. He’s shined, especially on the offensive side of the ball.

The 2014 prospect took the Top Offensive Lineman Award at the Valdosta MVP Camp, in February,

locker-room facilities.

“We would love to have a huge fan base,” Roberts said. “There is no doubt that Plant City is identified as a soccer community in the Tampa Bay area with recreation, youth and club numbers at an all-time high. Soccer is expanding in Tampa Bay, with 70-plus youth clubs. Having our teams play in a place like Plant City was attractive to us.”

The talented Tampa Bay FC roster comprises former MLS players and rising stars. Players hail from as close as Brandon and St. Petersburg, to as far away as Brazil, Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, and Ukraine.

“Our team is very diverse in culture,” Roberts said. “That’s something that I think will attract a diverse group of fans from all over.”

The Flames dropped their season opener to Phoenix March 30,

before picking up their first win Tuesday, against the Los Angeles Blues.

They will wrap up their seasonopening, three-game road trip Sunday, at Portland, before making their debut in Plant City the following week.

The VSI Tampa Bay FC USL Pro team, along with its PDL League (under 23), the Super 20s (under 20) and the W-League (women) will call Plant City home through August, with an option to extend through September. The shortterm lease will not affect the city’s current process of finding a permanent tenant or new owner for Plant City Stadium. Roberts said VisionPro is interested in submitting a bid to become a long-term tenant of the stadium.

“We do plan to put in a bid for the land available in Plant City,” Roberts said about the stadium.

in Valdosta, Ga., and made MVP at the Orlando Nike Camp, qualifying him for the prestigious Nike Training Camp in Oregon.

“Hopefully, I have a chance to go to the open in Oregon and see how things go,” McBride said.

The camp will feature some of the best prospects in the nation, competition McBride already has faced in regional camps.

“I’ve taken away a lot from the camps,” McBride said. “I don’t go in thinking that I’m better than everyone, but I believe that I can compete with them.”

Going into the summer before his senior year, McBride wants to keep his college and position options open. Schools have been looking at him as both an offensive and defensive lineman.

“There is no getting used to getting a college scholarship offer,”

he said. “When I hear them actually say the words, ‘We’re offering you,’ that’s when my emotions take over.”

King, McBride’s PCHS teammate, also has been steadily racking up offers. So far, the 2014 defensive lineman has received offers from Rutgers, Central Florida, Memphis, South Florida, Louisville and West Virginia.

“I’m just appreciative of everything Next Level has done for me,” King said. “You never expect the offers to come in or get used to it.

It’s just really exciting.”

HAND IN HAND

Next Level Sports operates as an aide to area high schools, with the athletes’ best interests at heart.

“We work with the high school programs and not against them,” Dickens said. “We’re not in com-

Rochester Rhinos at Tampa Bay FC WHEN: 7:30 p.m. April 13 WHERE: Plant City Stadium; 1900 S. Park Road TICKETS: General admission tickets are $12, and midfield premium seats are $15.

Season-ticket packages are also available by calling (813) 615-2182.

COVERAGE: Pick up a copy of the Plant City Observer and visit PlantCityObserver.com all season long for game recaps, player profiles and features on the VSI Pro team and other affiliates calling Plant City home this season.

Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver. com. petition or anything like that. We do this for the kids and will work with the high school programs and support whatever they’re doing.”

That starts with keeping the players on track with their high school programs, including participation in spring and summer conditioning.

“Here, we enforce whatever they’ve been saying to them,” Dickens said. “We tell them that their programs come first, and ours actually comes second. We make sure they do everything right and are on good terms with their programs, and then, they are allowed to come out here and use some of the connections and networking that we have to help get their name out there.”

Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver.com.

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

Plant City

RAIN

(inches)

I PC

Weather

WED.

March 27

0.00

THURS.

TemperatureS

0.00

Thurs., April 4 Fri., April 5 Sat., April 6 Sun., April 7 Mon., April 8 Tues., April 9 Wed., April 10

FRI.

March 29

0.00

SAT.

March 30

0.00

sunrise/sunset times

MOON

PHASES

Sunrise Sunset Thurs., April 4 7:16 a.m.

7:48 p.m.

Fri., April 5 7:15 a.m.

7:48 p.m.

Sat., April 6 7:13 a.m.

7:49 p.m.

Sun., April 7 7:12 a.m.

7:49 p.m.

Mon., April 8 7:11 a.m.

7:50 p.m.

Tues., April 9 7:10 a.m.

7:50 p.m.

Wed., April 10 7:09 a.m.

7:51 p.m.

MON.

April 1

0.00

TUES.

April 2

0.00

APRIL

TO DATE

0.00 (2012: 0.28)

Community starts with neighbors who care.

April 10

April 18

BLUEBERRY MARKET PRICES SHIPPING POINT: CENTRAL AND NORTH FLORIDA FLATS 12 4.4-oz. cups 12 6-oz. cups

YEAR

TO DATE 3.91 (2012: 1.34)

April 25

LOW HIGH $22.50 $26.50 $29 $34

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

Tammy Piergallini took this silhouetted shot of the Skywheel, at this year’s Florida Strawberry Festival.

The Plant City Observer, State Farm Insurance agent Tony Lee and The Corner Store have partnered to launch the new I Love Plant City Photo Contest. Weekly winners will have their photo featured in the Plant City Observer and receive a $10 gift certificate to The Corner Store!

Submit your photos, with a caption, via email to Managing Editor Michael Eng, meng@plantcityobThat’s what oursubject town line: server.com; is made of.Plant City.

I Love

Tony Lee CLU, Agent 1702 S Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563 Bus: 813-752-7202 www.tonyleeagent.com

State Farm® has a long heritage of helping out in the community. That’s why I’m proud to support Event/Charity.

Get to a better State .

M

0.58

May 2

SA

SUN.

March 31

High Low 86 70 79 55 81 61 81 61 86 61 82 70 86 70

PL E

March 28

Need someone that speaks fluent insurance?

I’m your agent for that.

1702 S Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563

813-752-7202 www.tonyleeagent.com 1201196

O B S E RV E R C RO S S WO R D

Edited by Timothy E. Parker

3

CRYPTOGRAMS 1. X B X G Z V Y W T B W Y W M X I Y G M O W B V Q Y T X L W T B . U W F X L W B V BUW

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KUWT

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UXM BV SVZZVK PQGB. 2. P V F P T H Z E Q W A B V R U P N Z K W Q N V F B W Z T O B V X Q U V F R X Z E V VFZV

PV

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®

105112

Tony Lee CLU, Agent

13

ZTQVFRU

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ACROSS 1 Oscar nominee Bening 8 Fix, at the vet’s office 12 Ankle covering 18 Disparaged publicly 19 Like a clock that has hands 21 Accumulate 22 Brilliant idea 24 Get ready for possible conflict 25 It can be deadly or mortal 26 Slightest 27 December purchase 29 Maui mouthful 30 Chinchilla’s coat 33 Chic 35 Beat a path 36 Egyptian cobras 37 Viva voce 40 West Wing underling 41 Group of three performers 42 Turkish bigwigs 43 Stealthy stealer 45 Something to shake or lend 46 “Classical” opening 47 Curtain call 48 Alveoli site 49 About half of table salt, chemically 52 Shield for Zeus or Athena 55 Impertinent talk 56 Like some waistbands 57 Arrests 60 “The ___ Professor” 62 Literary bear 64 Japanese soup choice 65 “Messenger” compound 66 They take slow, leisurely routes

State Farm, Bloomington, IL LInKEd UP by Monnie wayne 70 Mint dOwn

71 “American Beauty” novelist Ferber 73 “Daniel Boone” star Parker 74 External 75 Watchful attention 77 Account checker 79 Small municipality 81 Winona of “Edward Scissorhands” 83 Driftwood and such 84 Flowerless decorative plant 85 Methane or ethane, e.g.

89 Mouth piece?

90 Toothpaste holder 91 Groups of customers 95 Unwritten exams 97 12th Hebrew month 98 “Dennis the Menace” cartoonist Ketcham 99 Rims 100 Having many irons in the fire 101 Treadbare 102 Aces, e.g.

104 It can follow “you” 105 Attendance fig., often 106 Parched 107 “Santa ___” 108 Rosemary’s creator 111 Treasure keepers 113 Bare-knuckle, as politics 119 In this place, in legalese 120 Confirmation phrase 121 Melodic musical passages 122 College application pieces 123 His and ___ 124 Braying beasts

1 Product pitches 2 Take-home pay 3 Big ATM manufacturer 4 Love archer 5 “Kon-___” (Heyerdahl book) 6 Promgoers, usually 7 Former name for Tokyo 8 Air Jordan, e.g.

9 Velvety-petaled flower 10 Landed 11 “Embraceable ___” 12 Looked at with open mouth 13 Grassland unit 14 Winter hazard 15 Sport with guns 16 Moon of Jupiter 17 Negligent 19 Docket 20 Guitarist’s skimpy purchase?

23 Attract the lifeguard 28 Original cross word 30 Watch part 31 ___ Bator, Mongolia 32 University recruiting org.

34 Humorous fellow 35 Send a message by wire 36 Discrimination against senior citizens 38 “Das Boot” setting 39 Compulsion by threat 41 Consequently 42 Tutor in “The King and I” 44 Avg., size-wise 48 Establish, as rules 49 Withdrawn apple spray 50 Japanese immigrant’s child 51 Grouchy facial expression 53 “The ___ Sanctum” 54 Soap and water results 55 Pigs’ place 56 Sort of board 57 Toasting candidate

58 Excessive 59 Some graffiti removers 61 Flavor savorer 63 Say it’s so 67 Sci-fi sightings 68 Hosiery mishap 69 Lean and lovely 72 Conveying little weight 76 Rankled 78 Helpful hints 80 City on the Oka River, near Moscow 82 “The Lost Symbol” author Brown 84 Blacksmith’s hammers 86 Aquatic organism 87 “... ___ the twain shall meet” 88 “To be,” to Brutus 90 Go superfast 91 Mexican restaurant chain 92 Rancher’s rope 93 Hero of “Cold Mountain” 94 Barely achieve (with “out”) 95 West African tree with large leaves 96 Runs the football 101 Outshines 102 Carpenter’s boring tool 103 “Glycerine” opener 106 Reprieve from the governor 107 Auto maintenance operation 109 Completely botch 110 How not to run 112 Poseidon’s domain 114 “Wonderful!”

115 Palindromic relative 116 Acronym for mad cow disease 117 “The Thin Man” co-star 118 Suffix with “host” or “lion”

CROSSWORD_040413

Thursday, April 4, 2013

ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE with the total value of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month, 15 words or less. Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising or garage sale advertising Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks.

Call Toll Free: 1-877-308-5642 Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com (Please include your name and address) Or mail to: The Observer Group P.O. Box 3169 Sarasota, Fl 34230

Computer Services

Home Services

ONSITE ACCOUNTING, INC. Lizzette Sarria, CFE Certified Fraud Examiner. www.on-siteaccounting.net 813-764-9516 See my ad in the Service Directory

HOUSEMASTER Home Inspections Done Right Since 1979.

Robert & Michelle Southard 866-931-2350 E-mail: east-tampa@housemaster.com www.east-tampa.housemaster.com See our ad in the Service Directory

RUSHING TO SERVE, INC. On-site computer repair, networking, installations, consultations, off-site remote backups.

Faithful, dependable service since 1989.

813-754-1366, www.rushingtoserve.com See our ad in the Service directory

in the

Home Improvement/ Remodeling

PYREX OLD bowls. Set of 4. $40.00.

813-737-2614.

TABLE SAW, Sears: on rolling stand, $50. Left handed golf clubs with bag, $50. 813-719-6384.

Cemetery Plots/Monuments

Help Wanted

Interior Design

Landscaping & Lawn Service

First 15 words ............................ 15 per week Each Add’l word ........................................ 50¢ $

Auto Service

Classifieds

Home Services

cLassifiEd LinE ad PricE Yellow color $5 per Week Border as low as $3 per Week

Cleaning RAIL TOWN Building Services. Commercial Cleaning. Chuck Sullivan, 813-390-1851, www.railtownbuildingservices.com See our ad in the Service Directory.

GREGG W. HOOTH, P.A. Attorneys & Counselors At Law Business, Labor & Employment Law. E-mail: ghooth@gregghooth.com 863-667-8027 See our ad in the Service Directory

WALDEN LAKE ART & FRAME. Preserving Memories & Bringing Your Art To Life. Michael Kidde, Owner, waldenlakeartandframe.com See our ad in the Service Directory.

ATTORNEY

2013

This week’s Cryptogram answers 1. A tailor entered a bridge tournament. He came to the table but got confused when he was told he had to follow suit.

2. I think a computer is almost human but for the fact that it does not blame another computer for all its dumb mistakes.

CROSSWORD_ANS_040413

CLEANING

107706

ACCOUNTING

HOUSE CLASSIFIEDS LP # 108051

Massage

Professional Services

Your sourcE for LocaL cLassifiEd ads

This week’s Crossword answers

Legal Services

JEANNIE SOOS. Licensed Massage Therapist.

Relaxation and Deep Tissue Therapeutic 813-753-8965, by appointment. MA27301 See ad in the Service Directory.

call: 1-877-308-5642 Email: classified@yourobserver.com

Team Up Today With Classifieds 1-877-308-5642

GREEN EAGLE, INC. Landscape and Lawn Maintenance. Plant/Tree Installation and Removal, Mulch Sod Removal and Installation, Mowing, Fill Dirt & Cleanups. Call 813-967-6879. See our ad in the Service directory.

15% discount for 4 week Run

BREWINGTON’S TOWING & RECOVERY www.brewingtonstowing.com 813-754-TOWS(6300) See our ad in the Service directory

MINUTEMAN PRESS THE FIRST AND LAST STOP IN PRINTING. Mike Arndt, Owner 813-719-2111 1701 S. Alexander St., Plant City plantcity@minutemanpress.com www.plantcity.minutemanpress.com See our ad in the Service Directory

PAR INTERIORS - FULL SERVICE DESIGN. Patricia Rogers, Owner/ Decorator. 813-754-1567 www.parinteriors.com See ad in the Service Directory

See our ad in the Service Directory

HOUSEKEEPER WANTED: Mondays and Wednesdays, 8a.m.-10a.m. Must have driver’s license and car. 813-719-7606, Plant City.

VETERINARY RECEPTIONIST, Plant City. Will train, more info: www.plantcityanimalhospital.com

NATALIE SWEET, LLC., REALTOR. The Sweet Team, Keller Williams Realty. Cell: 813-758-9586 E-mail: nsweet@kw.com See ad in the Service Directory.

FIND IT!

CROSBY CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC. David Crosby, dcrosby520@yahoo.com 813-679-0096.

See my ad in the Service directory

SEPTIC PROS Septic Tank and Grease Trap Pumping Septic System Maintenance and Installation 813-727-6905 Dianne@Septic-Pros.com

CEMETERY LOTS for sale, Durant area.

Reasonably priced. Call 813-737-1012 for more information.

Professional Services

Lizzette Sarria, CFE, CertiďŹ ed Fraud Examiner

GREGG W. HOOTH

www.on-siteaccounting.net

lizette@on-siteaccounting.net

4798 South Florida Avenue P.O. Box 214 Lakeland, Florida 33813

Telephone: (863) 667-8027 Email: ghooth@gregghooth.com Website: www.gregghooth.com

Cathy Kudlinski

(WY s $OVER &, s WWW !BSOLUTE!UTO2EPAIR NET

49

00

MENTION THIS AD FOR DISCOUNT SPECIAL (Regulary $7999)

302 E. CALHOUN ST. PLANT CITY, FL 33563

Faithful, dependable service since 1989 OfďŹ ce 813.754.1366

www.rushingtoserve.com rts@rushingtoserve.com

Ken Rushing President 107727

(813) 754-TOWS (813) 754-6300 (813) 719-7738 FAX

107726

www.brewingtonstowing.com

107148

LV4383

813.752.1970 www.gouldsac.com

COMPUTER

On-site computer repair, networking, installations, consultations, off-site remote backups

Get a FREE 2nd Opinion BEFORE a Major Repair or Purchase CAC1816446

mtocleantampa.com

107709

Winter Tune-Up SPECIAL

STOP

813.571-1993

Services ĂœCarpet/Upholstery Cleaning Roof Ăœ Cleaning

AUTO SERVICE Scott Kudlinski

$

Free Estimates!

107240

AIR CONDITIONING

107705

ACCOUNTING, INC.

104 N. Evers Street, Suite 101 Plant CIty, Florida 33563 813-764-9516 813-764-0028 Fax

Business, Labor & Employment Law

Meeting ALL your cleaning needs! ĂœPressure Washing ĂœMaid/Janitorial

107001

Items Under $200 For Sale JEN KEN Kiln and porcelain doll mold. $200.00.

Call 813-767-1503.

THE PLANT CITY OBSERVER Thursday, April 4, 2013 THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

Plant city observer

www.yourobserver.com

COMPUTER

INTERIOR DESIGN

Classifieds 15A 15 PlantCityObserver.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Walden Lake Art & Frame

Preserving Memories & Bringing Your Art to Life Michael Kidde Owner

107708

107724

108263

CONSTRUCTION

LANDSCAPING & LAWN

Crosby Construction Services, Inc. David Crosby

The Alpha Agency

107702

Professional Investivations Wayne T. Miles Director of Operations www.The AlphaAgency.com

Insured

CONSTRUCTION

Cell 813.967.6879

1643 Williamsburg Square Lakeland, FL 33803

Call us for a quote on your next construction project

General Contractor, CGC 045134 RooďŹ ng Contractor, CCC 052495

Scott Rigsbee Vice President

3807 Cason Road, Plant City, FL 33566

MASSAGE

Natalie Sweet

Natalie Antonia Sweet LLC

Cell: (813) 758-9586 Fax: (813) 719-6300 Email: nsweet@kw.com www.AnotherSweetSale.com

OfďŹ ce (813)241-4219 / Cell (813)310-7748 107720

srigsbeekalmar@tampabay.rr.com

ELECTRIC

Perry Electric & Maintenance Inc.

(813) 753-8965

110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 204 Plant City, FL 33563 MM 27085 107710

By Apointment MA 27301

PACK & SHIP Giresh Sharma

106995

www.pakmailtampabay.com

2505 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563 Publix Shopping Center

Each ofďŹ ce independently owned and operated

REMODELING/HOME IMPROVEMENT

Cathy Byrd

Your Historic Restoration, Redevelopment & (813) 288-9335 Zoning Specialists (813) 293-4663 President

RAYMOND RIVERA 108259

CertiďŹ ed Flooring Sales Consultant Master Flooring Mechanic Owner

Cell (863) 934-8347 Fax (863) 709-8307

KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 1607 Alexander St., Plant City, FL 33563

Ph: 813-764-9878 Fx: 813-764-9888 pakmail623@gmail.com

Owner/Operator

FLOORING

There’s only 1 way...the Right Way!

Voice - Txt (863) 808-0341 State Licensed A 2900318

REALTORS

106999

s #/--%2#)!, s 2%3)$%.4)!, s ).$5342)!,

107725

Email greeneagle@tampabay.rr.com www.greeneaglegrassing.com

www.InnovativeRestorations.com

106998

KAL-MAR CONSTRUCTION, INC.

Herb Padgett

108277

813-679-0096 dcrosby520@yahoo.com

1514 S. Alexander St. Suite 104 Plant City, FL 33563 813.752.7460 waldenlakeartandframe.com

PERSONAL SERVICES

Licensed & Insured...All work Guaranteed

106996

We Specialize in Installing:

7OOD s 4ILE s #ARPET s ,AMINATE s 6INYL 4RAVERTINE s -ARBLE s 4ILE 3HOWERS s "ACKSPLASHES

raymond@1wayenterprises.com

Kim Hamilton

HOME SERVICES

Independent Consultant

Septic System Maintenance and Installation

Shaun Bryant Owner

Dianne@Septic-Pros.com

107729

3201 Jerry Smith Rd. Dover, FL 33527 • www.SePTIc-PRoS.coM FL License #HI1060

Mary R. Davis, Director

4UTORING + s &LEXIBLE 3CHEDULE

0ERSONALIZED 3ERVICES s &AMILY /WNED $RY #LEANERS s !LTERATIONS s ,EATHER 3UEDE s 3HOW 2EPAIR s 7EDDING $RESSES s &REE "UTTON 2EPLACEMENT

WWW KKLC US s 7 2EYNOLDS 3T 3UITE 0LANT #ITY &,

813.757.9646

Grow your business

3 !LEXANDER 3TREET s 0LANT #ITY &,

in the Service Directory

Rob Vetzel, Owner 108989

e-mail: vetzel1@aol.com (Across From Farmers Market)

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 866-931-2350

107719

Fax: 813-704-5190 Email: east-tampa@housemaster.com www.east-tampa.housemaster.com

Mike Arndt

Owner

813-719-2111 1701 S. Alexander St., Suite #105 Plant City, Florida 33566 107699

Robert & Michelle Southard

Franchise Owners / Inspectors, RMCC Home Inspections, LLC

TUTORING

Kaleidoscope Educational Services

BOWMAN AVENUE CLEANERS

813-727-6905 phone 813-719-2855 fax

107729

Owner

Order Online! KimHamilton.Scentsy.us

plantcity@minutemanpress.com www.plantcity.minutemanpress.com

Call today to reserve your space 1-877-308-7542

108813

108984

Septic Tank and Grease Trap Pumping

Dianne Bryant

107002

(813) 654-8750

KkayHamilton@aol.com

PlantCityObserver.com

Plant city observer

THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

109388

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