05.22.14 Plant City Times & Observer

Plant City Times &

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

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FREE • THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2014

SPORTS

Planes, Trains USDA approves Autos event more funding for citrus greening fight. rolls into P.C.

OUR TOWN

Runner Buddy Mines continues to defy his age.

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lives not forgotten by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Every day is Memorial Day Annette Kirk and Wrenita Codrington are members of American Gold Star Mothers, an organization of mothers who have lost children in war.

Courtesy photos

Emily Molinowski with Harry Heuman, of the Florida Holocaust Museum

+ Student wins Anne Frank honor Plant City High School junior Emily Molinowski received recently the Anne Frank Humanitarian Award.

The award recognizes humanitarian actions that better the lives of other individuals or a group.

Harry Heuman, representing the Florida Holocaust Museum, presented the award.

Molinowski is active with special-needs students and looks for ways to help them shine. She has been actively involved with Raider Buddies, ESE students, Special Olympics and is developing a ministry at her church for specialneeds children. She also has worked to help address some of the communication challenges faced by deaf students.

Annette Kirk kneels among the bright bouquets dotting the lawn of the Hillsboro Memorial Gardens. She points out her son’s grave to friend, Wrenita Codrington. The decorative headstone is the only one like it in the cemetery. On it is a collage of memories, pictures of Paul Cuzzupe II in life.

At the top, he’s dressed in an astro-

naut uniform. Cuzzupe was infatuated with space when he was a little boy.

Then, there’s the senior Prom. A band geek-turned-football star at Armwood High School.

In the middle, his signature is immortalized in stone on a letter he wrote to his girlfriend when he first joined the U.S. Army.

The bottom is speckled with photographs of Cuzzupe living his dream as a combat medic. He dons his uniform, throwing up deuces to represent peace.

Cuzzupe did not live long enough to see the day peace would reign over the war-torn terrain of Afghanistan. He

IN MEMORIAM

REAL ESTATE

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Seven Plant City parcels hit market Lakeland’s Higgenbotham Auctioneers is handling the sales of these properties.

Higgenbotham Auctioneers is located next door to Plant City, in Lakeland. So, it’s no surprise that it targets Plant City as a viable market.

“We do quite a bit of business in Plant City,” Auction Manager Earl WilWANT liams said. “We’ve TO BUY? got relationships there in Plant City.

For informaThat’s why we tion on the keep quite a listing listed propthere.” erties, call Both Williams Higgenbotham and General ManAuctioneers, ager John Haney 800-257-4161, live in Plant City, or send an email allowing them to to auction@ scout out prime higgenbotham. real estate. com.

Currently, there are seven different parcels Higgenbotham Auctioneers has listed for sale in Plant City.

“All the properties that we’ve got right now are fairly unique,” Williams said.

Indeed. Currently, the list includes everything from historic buildings to an income-producing apartment building.

Matt Hurley, with his son, Maxon, and wife, Deanna.

+ Congrats to grad Matt Hurley Plant City’s Matt Hurley celebrated May 5, the completion of his studies at the University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy.

Hurley already has been offered a position with Senior Care Pharmacy in Lakeland, which specializes in caring for the pharmaceutical needs of the elderly and special needs residents in the longterm care facilities.

Hurley, who completed his undergrad work at Florida State University, is a rare Floridian who has allegiances to both sides of the football rivalry.

“It was hard to get past the football rivalry,” said Hurley. “But I couldn’t pass up the chance to attend one of the top pharmacy schools in the nation.”

, 3&

This week’s winner is

Chris Black

See the photo on PAGE 15.

Amber Jurgensen

Wrenita Codrington and Annette Kirk SEE REMEMBRANCE / PAGE 4 wear their sons’ dog tags proudly.

THE PROPERTIES

Doug Felton “Gibber” Gibbs TRIBUTE ON PAGES 8-9 change is strange by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

St. Pete’s Dali Museum to showcase artwork from four Plant City students

One Tomlin student and three Plant City High students will be part of a state exhibit this summer.

The master of surrealism, Salvador Dali was instrumental in popularizing the strange genre of art.

Area students have studied his work and found inspiration in his bizarre images that combine reality with dream-like landscapes and iconog-

raphy for the second annual state exhibit.

This year, four Plant City students will show at the Salvador Dali Museum for the “Change is Strange” state exhibit. Tomlin Middle student Charlie Ray and Plant City High stu-

4260 U.S. 92 E.

The 14 commercial acres located off U.S. 92 East near County Line Road are offered in two different parcels with the option to purchase one or both. The total asking price is $1.2 million.

There are nearby city water and sewer lines that can be extended to the property with current well and septic utilities.

The property is highly visible, with about 8,500 cars passing through daily on US 9.2. and 18,500 on County Line

SEE AUCTION / PAGE 5

dents Morgan Napper, Luis Arellano and Logan Self beat out the hundreds of entries to make it onto the famous walls of the museum. Only 85 were good enough to snag a framed spot.

It’s only the second year the Dali Museum has had a statewide show.

Hillsborough has had its own show for the past five years. Pinellas also

SEE ARTISTS / PAGE 5

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

Amber Jurgensen

The properties available in Plant City vary in both size and approved usage.

Vol. 1, No. 42 | One section Crossword...................15

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

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

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

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COMMUNITYCALENDAR THURSDAY, MAY 22 Black-and-White Nite — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m.

Thursdays, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Vintage sitcoms and sci-fi from the 50s and 60s are played on a large dropdown screen. (813) 752-1220.

Casey Stidham — performance takes place from 6 to 9 p.m.

Thursdays, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 7529100.

Leadership 2014 Graduation — takes place at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 302 Carey St., Plant City. This is an event for the graduates and is by invitation only. RSVP by calling Jane, (813) 754-3707.

Line Dancing Lessons — takes place from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Thursdays, at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, 106 E. S.R. 60, Plant City. (813) 737-4444.

Plant City Commons Community Garden’s Rogation Ceremony and Spring Renewal — takes place at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at the gardens, 309 N. Carey St. Reception and refreshments to follow the blessing. Karen Elizabeth, (813) 435-8111.

Trivia Thursdays — begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander

St. For more information, call (813) 764-8818.

FRIDAY, MAY 23 After-School Teen Movie — takes place from 3:45 to 6 p.m. Friday, May 23, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Free popcorn and drinks. (813) 757-9215.

Friday Night Fun — Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill will offer karaoke, cornhole tournaments, a deejay, darts and more beginning at 7 p.m. Fridays, at the restaurant, 106 E. S.R. 60, Plant City. (813) 737-4444.

The Peacemakers — performance takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, May 23, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

Plant City Social Dance Club — takes place from 8 to 11:15 p.m. Fridays, at Stardust Dance Center, 1405 S. Collins St., Plant City. Cost is $5 for members and associate members; $7 for non-members. Ken Miller, (863) 409-7714 or pcsocialdanceclub@yahoo.com.

Praise, Gospel, Contemporary Christian Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Fridays, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220.

Strawberry Crest High School Thespian Troupe Series of One

Acts — takes place at 7 p.m.

Friday, May 23, at the high school, 4691 Gallagher Road, Dover. (813) 707-7522.

Uncork Your Weekend with Rick Mongoya — live music from 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, May 23, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City.

(813) 752-9100.

BEST BET Mud Titan — takes place Saturday, May 24, at 5701 Pless Road, Plant City. Race waves start every 20 minutes.

Elites races start at 8:30 a.m.

Runners can their

SATURDAY, MAY 24

To publicize your event in our Community Calendar, please send by mail: 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A, Plant City, FL 33563; or by email: meng@plantcityobserver.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday. waves during online registration for the race. Mud runners should arrive one hour prior to their wave time to allow for plenty of time to warm up and check in. Please be at the starting line at least 15 minutes prior to the start of your wave. A part of the proceeds will benefit The Youth Alliance.

For more, visit the mudtitan.com.

Skyler and Dan Duo — performance takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, May 24, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

MONDAY, MAY 26 Beginner Square Dance Lessons — classes take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mondays, at Strawberry Square, 4401 Promenade Blvd., Plant City.

First class is free. Plus Square

Ribbon Cutting: Safety Training & Consulting — takes place from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 27, at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St., Plant City. For more, visit plantcity.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 28 File Storage — class takes place from 11 a.m. to noon Wednesday, May 28, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.

Uncork Your Weekend with Mark Sprouse — live music from 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 24, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 7529100.

Young Adult Nite — takes place from 7:33 to 10:33 p.m.

Saturdays, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Live music and movies for 16- to 21-yearolds. (813) 752-1220.

Plant City Commons Community Garden Pot Luck — takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays, at the garden, 302 Carey St. Karen Elizabeth, (813) 435-8111.

Dance Lessons begin from 8 to 9:30 p.m. (813) 752 0491.

Evangelical University and Seminary Fish Fry — meals available from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, May 26, at Plant City’s First Baptist Church, 503 N. Palmer St. Dinners are $8 for adults and $6 for children 12 and under. (813) 752-4104.

Memorial Day Ceremony — takes place at 11 a.m. Monday, May 26, at the Plant City American Legion, 2207 W.

Baker St., Plant City. Lunch will be served following the service.

(813) 752-8608

TUESDAY, MAY 27 OneBlood Blood Drive — takes place from noon to 6 p.m.

Tuesday, May 27, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. All donors will receive a free wellness screening, as well as a free Outback Steakhouse T-shirt and a $5 coupon. (813) 757-9215.

Geek Club — takes place from 4 to 5:45 p.m. Wednesday, May 28, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. The Geek Club celebrates all aspects of geek culture, including comics, anime, manga, RPGs, board and collectible card games, and more. For more information, call (813) 757-9215.

Join the Bruton Memorial Library Geek Club. Get-Fresh Plant City Market — takes place 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, at Union Station Depot, in Historic Downtown Plant City. Fresh local veggies, dairy, jams, poultry, eggs, local crafts and more. For more information, call (813) 435-8111.

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CITRUS GREENING IN THE U.S.

agriculture by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

CITRUS SHOWDOWN U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced more than $1.5 million in funding to expand bio-control efforts to fight citrus greening.

Plant City growers Richard and Martha Sue Skinner were proud of their citrus grove that had been in the family for four generations. But, more than 100 years of growth and tradition was wiped out in several years because of citrus greening.

The U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack hopes to prevent citrus greening from destroying more groves. He announced last week more than $1.5 million in funding to expand bio-control efforts to fight citrus greening, also known as Huanglongbing.

This action is the first designation of funds by the Huanglongbing Multi-agency Coordination Group since it was established by Vilsack in December.

“Citrus greening poses a significant threat to the citrus industry and the thousands of jobs that depend on it,” Vilsack said. “It could also further drive up fruit and juice prices, if we don’t act.”

The funds have enabled USDA to sign cooperative agreements with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumers Services, the Texas Citrus Pest and Disease Management Corporation and the California’s Citrus Research Board and California Department of Food and Agriculture to coordinate the fight against citrus greening.

Previous USDA research funding to fight HLB includes commitments of about $1.5 million in each of the past three fiscal

GROVES VS. RESIDENTIAL Although citrus greening doesn’t discriminate between trees, Skinner believes homeowners shouldn’t panic about theirs.

There’s a domino effect in the groves, because the trees are so close together. The infected Asian citrus psyllid has easier accessibility to spread the disease. But, as a nursery owner, he sees most of his clients only have a maximum of four citrus trees.

Skinner advises spraying the trees with a fruit tree oil to deter the Asian citrus psyllid from landing on the trees.

ASIAN CITRUS PSYLLID

“The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, has become the most important insect pest of Florida citrus due to the presence of citrus greening disease also known as huanglongbing, which is spread by the psyllid,” according to the University of Florida.

The tiny brown insect feeds on all varieties of citrus. It originated in Asia or India and then spread to other areas of the world where citrus is grown.

It was found in 1998, in Florida and spread through the state, primarily due to the movement of infested nursery plants.

THE BIGGER BUG Part of the funds will increase significantly the production of the parasitic wasp known to control populations of Asian citrus psyllid.

“They are piggybacking off something that happened 20 years ago,” Richard Skinner said.

Skinner is talking about citrus leafminers and their parasitic nemeses, Ageniaspis citricola. Leafminers are tiny moths that hide within the

years by ARS in addition to NIFA steadily awarding increased grants from $878,000 in 2009 up to $10.4 million in 2012. Since 2006, the USDA has cumulatively invested more than $300 million on research efforts and actions associated with citrus health and combating citrus greening.

Skinner had to take out 900 of his trees when the disease first hit his grove. But, when the rest of his 2,500 trees started to show the same symptoms, he knew it was citrus greening.

Some of his trees were more than 100 years old. In 2011, the Skinners even got a visit from Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam, who presented them with the Century Pioneer Family Farm award for having such a long tradition of agriculture.

“I couldn’t wrap my arms around some,” Skinner said. “It’s sad when a tree goes from producing a box to nothing at all.”

A box is 90 pounds of fruit.

Skinner has watched as his neighbors on County Road 39 in Plant City fell to the same thing. Many have leased their land out to strawberry farmers. After citrus greening gripped his 50-acre grove, Skinner was able to secure aid from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Citrus Health Response Program.

Through the program, he is able to recapture some of the costs it took when the trees were removed. He’s in his last year with the program and is deciding what to do with his land once his two years in the program are up.

plant canopy during the day and lay eggs on young leaf flushes at night. The larva emerges directly into the leaf tissue, mining along the midvein and making its way to the leaf margin.

The mining makes the leaves susceptible to canker infections by creating wounds in leaf tissue.

Shortly after leafminers were discovered in 1993, in Florida, the parasistoid Ageniaspis citricola was

CITRUS DISEASE SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBERS

The U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack also appointed three individuals to serve on the Citrus Disease Subcommittee, a subcommittee of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, Education and Economics Advisory Board’s Specialty Crop Committee.

Each of the nine Citrus Disease Subcommittee members must be a producer of citrus from Florida, California, Arizona or Texas. Each member serves a two- to threeyear appointment. Terms for members overlap so that about one-third of the subcommittee is replaced and/or reappointed each year.

The new members include: • David F. Howard, vice president, Graves Brothers Company, Vero Beach • Matthew McLean, CEO and founder of Uncle Matt’s Organics, Clermont • Justin D. Brown, vice president and general manager, D Bar J Orchards Inc., Orange Grove, Calif.

released for biological control of them statewide. It would lay its own eggs in the larvae of the leafminers. The parasitoid established itself throughout the citrus growing regions of the state and joined a number of native parasitic wasps in attacking the pest.

The wasp that will take on the Asian citrus psyllid is called the Tamarixia radiata. It is a small, brown insect that doesn’t sting or bite humans or animals. It was first imported to Florida from Taiwan and south Vietnam, and between 1999 and 2001, about 37,000 adults of a mixed colony

According to the University of Florida’s IFAS: “HLB has seriously affected citrus production in a number of countries in Asia, Africa, the Indian subcontinent and the Arabian Peninsula, and was discovered in July 2004, in Brazil. Wherever the disease has appeared, citrus production has been compromised with the loss of millions of trees.”

The psyllid was first found in 1998, in Palm Beach County, on back yard plantings of orange jessamine, the University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources reported. In August 2005, citrus greening was found in the South Florida region of Homestead and Florida City. Since that time, citrus greening has been found in commercial and residential sites in all counties with commercial citrus.

Richard Skinner first noticed his grove ailing about five years ago.

“The first signs are not quite as obvious to what it is,” Skinner said. “It could be that the tree isn’t getting enough nutrition, other diseases.”

HOW IT SPREADS

Citrus greening is thought to be caused by the bacterium, Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus. It is spread by the Asian citrus psyllid, a tiny non-native pest. The psyllid takes the bacteria into its body when it feeds on bacteria-infected plants. The disease spreads when a bacteria-carrying psyllid flies to a healthy plant and injects bacteria into it as it feeds.

THE SIGNS

An initial sign of citrus greening is vein yellowing and an asymmetrical chlorosis referred to as “blotchy mottle.”

“Leaves may be small and upright with a variety of chlorotic patterns that often resemble mineral deficiencies such as those of zinc, iron, and manganese. Some leaves may be totally devoid of green or with only green islands,” according to the University of Florida.

Growers also can mistake the symptom for Phytophthora root rot, water logging, citrus blight or leafminer tunnels.

from the two origins were released in Florida citrus. It is originally identified from northwestern India, now part of Pakistan.

“They probably hope the wasps will have the same effect,” Skinner said.

“They’re not going to eradicate it. The jury’s out on that one, but it’s not in the cards. It might keep (the Asian citrus psyllids) in check, but it won’t completely eradicate them.”

Funding also will go to other biocontrol methods such as thermal therapy or ways to enrich the soil to make them less susceptible to disease.

TRADITION

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Eastern Star chapter celebrates 100 years The Plant City fraternal organization had 25 charter members.

It’s been 100 years since that fateful day, when Olin S. Wright called a meeting at the home of Mary Dormany to institute a new chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. Since then, Plant City area members have kept the order’s traditions alive.

The order held a banquet Sunday, May 19, at the Olin S. Wright Masonic Lodge, complete with a birthday cake.

“It is a real milestone,” Grand Matron Geraldine Madsen said. “I have never been in a chapter where there’s been a 100 year anniversary. Fifty, yes.

It’s a big thing. It should be celebrated.”

The Order of the Eastern Star is a national organization that includes community service and fellowship. It was founded

by Master Mason Dr. Rob Morris in the late 1800s, with the idea that it would be nice to have a way for female relatives of Master Masons to share the benefits of knowledge and selfimprovement that Freemasonry made available to men.

It also would create a place in the Masonic family that would allow men and women to participate together, according the order.

“You get close to people, as if they were your own family,” Madsen said.

There were 25 charter members in the Plant City chapter.

Members started out their community service visiting the sick in their homes.

Now, the current order has a variety of projects it oversees that target education and health needs. The Student Higher Education Award fund is a scholarship. The order also has a similar fund for those seeking training and education in religious leadership. Other funds include heart and cancer. To garner funds, the order hosts a variety of events and dinners.

To be a member of the order, applicants have to know a Mason and fill out a petition.

Madsen has been a member since 1965. She was inspired to join after seeing her parents work with the order.

“I saw the relationship they had with each other and the other members,” Madsen said.

“I liked it and wanted to be a part of it.”

Throughout the years, she has seen membership decline statewide. She suspects that is because younger generations have other distractions, such as technology.

But, many things still have stayed the same. That includes a Bible the first Grand Matron signed upon installation. Every year since then, each new Grand Matron has signed it.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

happy feet by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Dance Carousel twirls to the top THE AWARDS Teen Performance Super: Dance Carousel Studio — First place overall Teen Performance Large: “It Don’t Mean a Thing” — First place overall Senior Performance Duet/Trio: “Roar” — First place overall Jacelyn Shissler, Junior Performance Solo — First place overall Teen Performance Large: “Bombay Dreams” — Second place overall Kendall Gaudens, Teen Performance Solo — Second place overall Amiah Giles, Teen Performance Solo: “Stuff Like That There” — 10th place overall One double-platinum award Four platinum awards Two gold awards

The studio earned top honors at the largest dance competition in the country.

Dancer Faith Brown flipped her small partner in the air, hoisting her above her shoulders. The older and younger classes at Dance Carousel Studio have been working together to polish their skills.

It’s working.

At the beginning of the month, Dance Carousel Studio competed against dozens of other dance studios from around the state at Showstopper, the largest dance competition in the country. The dancers earned top honors in solo, trio and team divisions.

There were three different solos performed by dancers from Dance Carousel.

“I’ve done one before,” Amiah Giles said. “Now that I’m older, I like it. You’re on stage

by yourself, so if you mess up, it’s not as noticeable. You get to express yourself better, too.”

The studio’s only trio placed first for their tap routine to Bette Midler’s “Stuff Like That There.”

“There’s (fewer) people, so you can show your emotions better,” Brown said. “You get to show your own personality.”

The three group performances also placed well. For some of the girls, it was their first competition.

“I felt proud of myself for winning the award,” Dakota Fredere said. “I always will remember what we did, how good we did.”

The new techniques the younger girls are learning came

in handy during the competition.

“It’s hard, because we got flipped into the air with another older girl,” Kenley Connell said.

“It’s hard for us, because you’ve got to have a straight body and keep your hands in the air.”

Although some girls were first-time competitors, there were many seasoned veterans, too, that can’t seem to get enough of the dance floor.

“I like dance, because it really gets you moving,” Saige Starford said. “I’m really energetic, and it gets you moving around a lot.”

The dancers study under instructor Lori Matta, a former New England Patriots cheerleader. She has been teaching dance, cheerleading and tumbling in Plant City for years.

After moving from the Boston area about seven years ago, she taught dance in various

Courtesy photo

The Plant City dancers have qualified to go on to nationals. settings, most recently at her new studio, 402 W. Ball St. “There’s just such a warm home feeling here in Plant City,” Matta said.

Many of her students have been with her for years.

“We have one of the most amazing teachers ever,” Delaney Flowers said.

Taryn Storter agrees.

“She worked us so hard, and now, we’re at the level of competition, the same level as her

Boston girls,” Storter said. “I’m thankful she’s teaching us.”

Their awards have qualified them to go to the Showstopper National Finals in either Myrtle Beach, S.C.; Anaheim, Calif.; or Galveston, Texas, this summer.

“I’m looking forward to improving,” Jacelyn Shissler said.

“I like how there’s all different kinds of girls competing.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

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REMEMBRANCE / PAGE 1 died from wounds he sustained in 2010, when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

“Anyone (who) comes here, they can see that this is a story of his life,” Kirk said.

Now, all Kirk has left of her son is that story. She cherishes the photographs. She keeps his old clothes. She visits the grave every day.

But, Kirk also has a new family. Codrington isn’t just a friend.

She, too, lost her son, Sgt. Cory Clark, in 2007, while he also was deployed in Afghanistan.

The women are part of the American Gold Star Mothers, an organization of mothers who have lost children in war.

They proudly wear their pins, along with their sons’ dog tags.

“Family is very supportive but, when it’s another mom, it’s different,” Kirk said. “They understand.”

Codrington agrees. “(American Gold Star Mothers) has been a life-saver for me,” Codrington said. “We want to reach out to others. In our group, it’s OK to cry. We’re the weepers. Sometimes, you don’t know what triggers it. But, in our group, it’s OK to still be crying.”

There was still a week to go until Memorial Day. Flags already had been set out around veterans’ graves in remembrance. It’s a touching gesture for the mothers. But, they live the meaning of the holiday more than once a year.

“Every day is Memorial Day for us,” Kirk said. “It may come once a year for people who don’t know the loss, but it’s every day for us.”

“Every single day,” Codrington added.

PFC. PAUL CUZZUPE

Kirk has a tattoo on her wrist reminding her of her son.

It reads, “Destino,” Italian for “destiny.”

Cuzzupe only had three credits to go until he finished his degree at St. Leo University. But, the 23-year-old just couldn’t wait to go into the military. It was his destiny.

“He said, ‘This is something I’ve got to do,’” Kirk said.

So, Cuzzupe packed his bags for boot camp. He said goodbye to his band, The Flawless Affect, and left his guitar, his girlfriend and his mother behind.

Could Kirk really be surprised? Both she and Cuzzupe’s father, Paul, had been in the Army, and he was born on the

THIS WEEK’S CROSSWORD ANSWERS

2013

THIS WEEK’S CRYPTOGRAM ANSWERS 1. A woman was ready to pick a fight with her husband. She blurted out, “My patience and love are at an end, and don’t forget, I have an attitude and I know how to use it.”

2. Three men—from Red Square, the Oval Office and the Pentagon—met to talk over world problems. They quickly agreed to be multi-faceted and view things from all angles.

Wrenita Codrington and Annette Kirk both lost their sons in Afghanistan.

Army base at Fort Riley, Kan. Cuzzupe was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in Vilseck, Germany. He had been deployed for less than two months to Akhtar-Mohammad-Khan, when he earned the Army Commendation Medal.

An Afghan father had attached bombs to his children.

In the blink of an eye, they detonated. As a medic, Cuzzupe rushed to help one of the boys. Three of his limbs had been blown off. He couldn’t save him.

He called his mother at 3 a.m. after the incident. He was exhausted. And haunted. The child was the same age as his younger sister, Alexis, back home, safe and sound.

“He worked tirelessly on that child,” Kirk said. “It affected him, because it was a child.

How could someone do that to their own child?

“I just let him talk,” Kirk said.

“I’ll never forget what he said to me: “Tell ‘Boop,’ tell Lexi, I love her.”

One week later, he was killed.

“It was a doorbell,” Kirk said.

She was in the shower after taking a walk around the neighborhood. The military personnel tasked with the responsibility of relaying the news had watched her as she rounded the block and entered her home. They waited a moment to let her get settled inside.

“It wasn’t reality,” Kirk said.

“I didn’t believe it until I saw him.”

Kirk, and his grandmother,

PLANT CITY MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY Plant City’s annual Memorial Day Ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, May 26, at the Plant City American Legion, 2207 W. Baker St., Plant City.

Lunch will be served following the service.

For more information, call (813) 752-8608.

Judy Allard, traveled to Dover Air Force Base, in Delaware, to receive his body.

Before they laid him to rest, Kirk gazed upon his face one last time before the ceremony.

“That was probably one of the hardest parts,” Kirk said.

In a mere matter of months, Cuzzupe went from being the king of selfies to the recipient of a Bronze Star, Purple Heart and a Combat Medic Badge.

“I feel as moms, we did raise heroes,” Kirk said. “Young men willing to go and fight for something they believe in. My son, like her son, has a lot of compassion for people in those countries.”

SGT. CORY CLARK

Cory Clark made sure he wasn’t going to get lost in the shuffle as a middle child. From the moment his younger sister was born, he became a fullfledged social butterfly.

“Cory was Plant City’s child,” Codrington said. “He had to know everyone, and everyone had to know him.”

The Durant High School alum carved out many personas for himself.

He loved to cooking, aspiring to become a restaurateur.

He was the protector who talked Codrington into signing up on Myspace to keep an eye on his younger cousins. He did the job himself when he wasn’t deployed.

He was a mentor, who often helped his family and other service members with advice.

“Cory enjoyed life; he en-

Amber Jurgensen

joyed people,” Codrington said.

Clark didn’t want to work in the Food Lion warehouse freezer for the rest of his life. So in 2001, he carved a new identity as an Army engineer.

He was deployed once to Iraq, and then again to Jaji, Afghanistan, near the Pakistani boarder. But, his service would end shortly after celebrating six years in the armed forces.

Codrington had just received an email photo of her son hours before she got the devastating news.

She was at work when the news was delivered to her front door. The problem was, she had just moved. After neighbors saw the military personnel, word spread quickly around town. Codrington had dozens of missed calls when she was summoned to the human-resources office while still on the job. Security escorted her into the room.

She had no idea what she had done. Someone gave her a telephone, with a relative on the line.

A suicide bomber had killed the 25-year-old while he was fixing a bridge.

“It was a blur after that,” Codrington said.

She awoke in the emergency room hours later, insisting to be released. Insisting it wasn’t true. That it was all a mistake.

Clark was escorted home by his brother, Master Sgt. Kedrick Wright. He returned with an impressive list of military honors, including a Bronze Star, Purple Heart and a marksmanship award. His contagious personality and giving spirit also remains in the hearts of many. Two friends named their children after the military mentor and protector of peace.

“It just showed the honor that Cory did have,” Codrington said about her son’s ultimate sacrifice. “There is no greater loss than the one you brought forward and the one that gave you life. No greater loss.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

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MORGAN NAPPER

low classmate as a model, the 17-year-old photographed her holding a camera. has hosted its own show.

Then, he switched her head “We need to promote the for the camera, calling the arts,” Ray’s teacher, Ric Edgepiece, “Make Your Passion Your mon, said. “These kids are reLife.” ally talented.”

“I saw something similar on Plant City High School art Instagram and thought it was teacher Nicole Carpenter neat,” Arellano said. “Everyagreed. where I go, I take pictures of “There’s a lot of talent that everything.” comes out of this area,” CarHis love of photography penter said. “I don’t think they started when he was in elrealize.” ementary school. His parents The exhibit will be open bought him disposable camfrom June 6 to Sept. 1. eras to practice. In middle “It’s an amazing show,” said school, he stopped Bethany Mead, an edutaking pictures. But, in cation coordinator for high school, the hobby the Dali Museum. “Our came back. visitors, who come from “A picture shows a lot all over the world, really of memories and stoenjoy and appreciate the ries that you can forget student shows we have about,” Arellano said. on exhibit.”

“But, you can’t forget a picture.”

CHARLIE RAY Arellano took Photo Edgemon calls his stuIII with Nicole Carpendent a computer whiz. ter this year.

But Charlie Ray calls “Luis is dedicated, himself a computer nerd. because when I ‘threatThe 14-year-old excels ened’ them to submit at Photoshop, studying something to the show the craft in Edgemon’s ... I sent it to everyone digital art class. and not everyone took “He’s actually helped the opportunity,” Carteach the class,” Edgepenter said. “He even mon said. “He’s that got out of another class good at using computto work on it. It was ers.” something he hadn’t So, when Edgemon Courtesy photo even started.” saw the guidelines for this year’s statewide ex- Luis Arellano used Photoshop to create this LOGAN SELF hibit, he knew a past thought-provoking piece.

ARTISTS / PAGE 1

project of Ray’s would fit perfectly.

Titled “Reach for the Stars,” the manipulated photograph features a constellation in the form of a bear.

“We basically had to chose a metaphor out of a list and incorporate a plant or animal into the portrait by making fun of it or proving the metaphor,” Ray said.

When Ray found out it was accepted, he was thrilled.

“I just think it’s really cool,” Ray said. “I thought it was a great piece and all but never thought it was good enough to be in a museum.”

Ray had his first introduction to computers in third grade with a PowerPoint presentation. Since then, he’s been teaching himself more about graphic software. He’s certified in Microsoft Office and uses Photoshop Elements 9 at home. He hopes to continue his career by taking photography as an elective when he enters Plant City High School next year.

“There’s a bunch of different things you can do with art,” Ray said.

AUCTION / PAGE 1 Road. It also is located within sight of the new Amazon.com large-item distribution center currently under construction.

Also located on the corridor is an O’Reilly Auto Parts distribution center, Welldyne, Publix Supermarkets and Save-A-Lot Supermarkets.

There will be upcoming improvements to the corridor including additional exit lanes from Interstate 4 and a new traffic light at the I-4 eastbound off ramp.

The property has been the home of Florida RV World since 1985. Following the retirement of the owner, the property returned to the market.

Morgan Napper already has won an Award of Excellence at the Hillsborough exhibit last month. And she’s not stopping there.

Another untitled piece has made it into the state exhibit, as well. Done in pen and watercolor, the piece is a face with splotches of color that seem to resemble flower blooms. The piece was a project for class.

“We had to combine elements of color and how they pop next to each other with

other elements of portraiture,” Napper said. “I really focused on the eyes and didn’t include a lot of other details of the face.”

Napper started her art career in the sixth grade at Tomlin Middle School. Now a junior, she is happy with her progress.

“It’s really neat and a huge blessing to have talent because it is so rare,” Napper said.

This year, the 17-year-old took 2D III with teacher Nicole Carpenter.

“Morgan’s not afraid to take risks and she is really good at critiques,” Carpenter said.

“That’s something the students really struggle with. Morgan is eager to hear her critiques and rework.”

LUIS ARELLANO

It was the day of submission deadline when Carpenter sent out her last notice to students to enter a piece.

Luis Arellano was one of the few that took the opportunity that day. But, he didn’t even have a piece to enter. In one hour, he came up with a winning concept and executed it using Photoshop. Using his fel-

114 N. Pearl St.

A 10-unit apartment complex located at 114 N. Pearl St. and its adjoining property are for sale and offered in three parcels.

Parcel one is the two-story apartment complex built in 1978. It is located on one-half acre and listed for $249,000.

Parcel two is a 1/4-acre development tract located on North Davis Street. It is listed at $29,900.

Parcel three is a .33 acre lot on the northeast corner of Reynolds and North Davis streets. It is listed at $59,900.

315 S. Collins St.

The 1,870-square-foot commercial building on 315 S. Col-

Logan Self’s photography is haunting.

The untitled piece depicts a girl opening a birdcage. Her head has been replaced with that of a raven.

“I like taking pictures of nature, and I like to incorporate it,” Self said. “Sometimes, you can feel caged, very trapped.”

The 16-year-old used her Canon 23i to shoot the photograph of her classmate and then manipulated it with Photoshop.

“I like that you can change a photo and do things that aren’t in real life,” Self said.

Self got her start with photography in seventh grade, using her parents digital camera to take nature pictures and shoot short video skits. She takes Photo II with Nicole Carpenter.

“She had hers done early and it was ready to go,” Carpenter said. “I’m really excited about Logan especially as a sophomore getting into the show. It gets her excited and she has so much potential.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

lins St. has two restrooms, a paved parking area, covered canopy, central HVAC and is handicapped accessible.

The building is within the Plant City Midtown Redevelopment area. It was formerly used as a staffing agency and is ideal for professional office use.

It is listed at $169,900.

208-212 S. Collins St.

The 18,786-square-foot historic building is located downtown and available for retail, office or warehouse uses. The two-story space is also within the Midtown area.

It is listed at $449,000.

For more photos, visit

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM.

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meals on wheels by Michael Eng | Editor

COUGAR PRIDE by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Food trucks roll into town

The graduation took place at Durant High School.

Hundreds of Plant City residents brought their appetites downtown for the first Food Truck Round Up May 16, at Mc-

Durant High’s pint-sized students turn their tassels

Call Park. Sponsored by the City of Plant City and the Plant City Times & Observer, participating trucks included Papa Ron’s

Cajun Creole, Rollin’ Zoinks, Gone Bananas, Tasty Stacy, Gator Country BBQ, Teaki Truck and more.

Mandy Hunter’s son, Cole, 3 months, may have been one of the youngest attendess.

Right: Tom Jones served up sweet treats at Gone Bananas.

ABCs and 123s were just part of the fun at the Little Cougars graduation ceremony Friday, May 16, at Durant High School.

The Little Cougars were on their best behavior.

Art Wood, center, dined with Vlada and John Pike.

Right: They were excited to graduate.

Plant City Times & Observer Locally Owned by Ed Verner, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes The Plant City Times & Observer is published by Plant City Media LLC, a joint-venture of the Tampa Bay Times and Plant City Observer LLC.

110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 704-6850 www.PlantCityObserver.com &RS\ULJKW 3ODQW &LW\ 0HGLD //& $OO 5LJKWV 5HVHUYHG

TO ADVERTISE

Call Veronica Prostko, (813) 716-0007, or Joanna Verga, (813) 451-6489.

SEND US YOUR NEWS

We want to hear from you. Let us know about your community events, celebrations and family member achievements.

To contact us, send your information via: Email: Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com.

Mail: The Plant City Observer, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A, Plant City, FL 33563

CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides free home delivery to several neighborhoods in Plant City.

The Plant City Times & Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

Interim City Manager David Sollenberger brought his granddaughter, Indigo Allen, 14, and wife, Alise, to the Food Truck Round Up.

Plant City Times &

Observer

General Manager/Editorial / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com

General Manager/Advertising / Tony Del Castillo, tdelcastillo@tampabay.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editor / (Community) Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Executives / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@PlantCityObserver.com; Joanna Verga, jverga@tampabay.com Circulation/Office Manager / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

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

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

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2014

vroom! vroom! by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

CLUB HUBBUB If your club would like to post announcements, email them to Associate Editor Amber Jurgensen, ajur gensen@plantcityobserver. com.

There were bounce houses and slides for the kids.

Courtesy photo

Ashlyn Yarbrough and Michelle Williamson

+ Florida Farm Bureau Ashlyn Yarbrough, a freshman at Plant City High School, recently placed second in the Florida Farm Bureau Speech Contest, held in Valrico.

The topic for the speech was “Food security is an important issue to the people of the United States.

How can Florida Agriculture continue to provide quality solutions for the future?”

Yarbrough was awarded $100 and a medal from Michelle Williamson, contest chair.

Kace Davis loved all the exhibits.

Kids could climb aboard this aircraft.

Courtesy photo

Top row, from left: Ron MacDonald, the Rev. Dean Pfeffer, Buck LeGreco and Patrick Griffin. Bottom row, from left: Tracy MacDonald, Sally Niver-Kimbrell, Deaconess Lyn Senkarik and Jessica Griffin.

+ Hope Lutheran Church Eight members of Hope Lutheran Church participated in a day long training April 28, to become certified as early responders in the event of a natural or man-made disaster.

The training was done through The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Disaster Response. The Hope members are now a part of Lutheran Early Response Team and can assist anywhere that Lutheran Disaster Response needs assistance.

“While we have received this specialized training to assist in the event of a disaster, it is a training that we pray we never need to put into action, either here in Plant City or anywhere, for that matter,” says the Rev. Dean Pfeffer. “But if we do, we thank God that we have the training and the skills to help those in need and bring the comfort of the gospel along with willing hands to help.”

ENGINE EXCITEMENT The sound of engines could be heard rumbling in the sky over the Plant City Airport May 17, during the annual Planes, Trains and Automobiles.

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce event attracted hobbyists and families to view impressive models, vintage cars and air shows.

+ P.C. Chamber of Commerce Students in the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s 2014 Leadership Class will enjoyed a graduation ceremony at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 302 Carey St. This is an event for the graduates and is by invitation only.

RSVP by calling Jane, (813) 754-3707.

Tamara, Tammy, Cassie and Josh Huskey

Many Boy Scouts showed up to earn badges.

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JUNE 17, 1968 – MAY 14, 2014

GOODBYE, GIBBER Nearly 1,000 attended the funeral for Plant City’s Doug F. Gibbs, better known as Gibber, who died May 14, following complications during surgery.

IN MEMORIAM by Michael Eng | Editor

E

ven in death, Doug Gibbs amazed those around him. While preparing for Gibber’s funeral, his father, Jack Gibbs, and brother, Ken Gibbs, were searching for photos in the family’s real-estate office. They discovered an envelope, with the words, “Important Papers,” written on the front.

Inside, was Gibber’s goodbye letter — a document he wrote more than two decades ago. And in true Gibber fashion, its message is sweet, amusing and, most of all, honest.

“Well, I guess since someone is reading this, it must mean that I’m gone or that someone is awful nosy,” it begins.

“This letter is just really to comfort my parents, which I can imagine are in a lot of grief. To start off with, I am very grateful to my parents for bringing me up in a loving and Christian family, even though I was spanked every day in my childhood days.

“Dad and Mom: You both were always there for me when I was hurt or needed someone to talk to — especially when I was wrong, which, of course, wasn’t that often.”

Gibber continued with a special message for Ken, his wife, Debbie, and their children and then concluded with a note to his friends.

“I know that I was really blessed to have so many good friends,” he wrote. “I can’t reminisce too much of what we did, because y’all could still get in trouble. ...

(There is) the saying, ‘If you go through life with one true friend, then you’re lucky.’ Well, I must have been one of the luckiest people in the world to have so many friends.”

The Rev. Tommy Warnock, who officiated Gibber’s funeral May 17, at Plant City’s First Baptist Church, read the letter for the nearly 1,000 in attendance.

“What blows my mind is that at 23 years old, he was thinking about this,” says Gibber’s father, Jack.

On the second page of the letter, written in 1991, Gibber included a list of friends who should serve as his pallbearers. Unbelievably, those friends were the same ones who helped bring Gibber home.

Doug Felton Gibbs, Plant City civic leader, died May 14, 2014, following complications during surgery.

He was just 45 years old.

Survivors include his parents, Jack and Elizabeth Gibbs; a brother, Ken Gibbs, and his wife, Debbie; grandmother, Margaret Gibbs; his loving life partner of 11 years, Carole Wright; two nieces, Sara and Anna; and nephews, Andrew, Paul, Luke, Nathaniel and Philip Gibbs.

LARGER THAN LIFE

In the days following his death, friends compared Gibber to Will Rogers and Elvis Presley. Others called him the “unofficial mayor of Plant City.” Still others said he was the glue that not only kept their circle of friends together but also Plant City as a whole.

But, above all, the word used universally was loyal.

Gibber was born June 17, 1968. Instantly, he and brother Ken forged a deep relationship that lasted throughout Gibber’s life.

“We got in some trouble together,” Ken says. “We were always tussling. We broke several things in the house; it was hard for Mom to have nice things.”

Jack clarifies: “Tussling — not fighting.”

Eric Schulte met Gibber when they were 7 years old and in the second grade at Bryan Elementary School.

“We became pretty fast friends and inseparable soon thereafter,” Schulte says. “I remember spending plenty of time at Doug’s house when we were little. We’d play ‘army’ and G.I. Joes in the fort in the back of his house.

“We spent as much time at each other’s houses as we did our own,” he says. “I re-

Doug, so that’s what I was going to do for him.”

Schulte isn’t alone in his memories of Gibber. Tim Shuff, who also met Doug in elementary school, later became Gibber’s tennis partner.

“He had a wicked two-handed backhand,” Shuff says.

Gibber even introduced Shuff to his future wife, Stephanie.

“Everybody loved him; he was like a rock — always reliable.” he says. “One of the last memories I have was my wife and I going to see STYX at the Florida Strawberry Festival with Doug and Carole. We were just reminiscing and sharing good stories and memories.”

Although the best of those stories likely never made it to Jack’s ears, he remembers getting a phone call or two that would spark concern in any parent.

“We’d get phone calls that would start with, ‘Mr. Gibbs: First of all, Doug is OK,’” Jack remembers, smiling. “And that did happen more than once.

“His friends identify with two vehicles of his — the Scottsdale (which was passed down from his grandfather and father) and a maroon Jeep that once ended up in a pond out in Walden Lake.

In fact, his class ring is in the middle of one of those lakes.”

Brian West, another of Gibber’s boyhood friends, says he treasures the memories they made together.

“Any time I begin to tell a story from my youth, my wife must see it in my eyes,” he says. “She’ll chime in with, ‘Let me guess: One time, you and Doug …’ She’s usually right. As many times as that has happened over the years, I’m just now realizing how big a part he played in my life. Doug was a great friend and a best friend to a lot of people. If he was your friend, you had a friend for life. He spent his life going out of his way to be there for others, including me.”

Brannon Wright, a friend of Gibber’s since freshman year of high school, has a name for Gibber’s ability to connect with people.

“Gibber had a gift, I called his ‘Gibber Glue,’” he says. “He had this unique ability to bond people. … He was responsible for connecting more people than Facebook, Christian Mingle and Match.com all combined. Most all of his closest friends were introduced to each other through the Gibber. It truly was remarkable his ability to put people together.”

GREAT ENCOURAGER

Following high school, Gibber attended Hillsborough Community College and then in 1985, began working at his family’s real-estate company. Two years later, Ken also joined the firm, and since then, the trio — Jack, Gibber and Ken — operated in all facets of the industry: residential, commercial, industrial and acreage.

“We were the Three Musketeers,” Ken says. “We all handled everything, and whatever needed to get done, any of us could fill in. ... We were together every day for six to eight hours a day. Now, one-third of the team is gone.”

Gibber’s office was situated within Jack’s eyesight; they looked at each other all day. And if the two needed to communicate, all Jack had to do was look up and talk to his son.

Photos courtesy of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center “That’s the hardest part,” Jack says. “I had breakfast with Doug every weekday morning for almost 30 years. ... After my member the first time Doug attempted to As the boys grew older, different interests spend the night at my house. I say, ‘attempt- pulled them apart for a few years. But, when dad died, I’d sometimes catch myself heading ed,’ because he called his mom to pick him they rekindled their friendship in high school, back to the office from a meeting and wanting to tell him something. Now, I’m having up pretty soon after getting there. My brother it was as if no time had passed at all. and I had gotten into a fight, which I believe “We started right where we left off,” Schulte that same thing happen with Doug.”

Indeed, Gibber’s presence likely will be felt scared him and probably made him question says. “And in college, he was the first guy I’d his new friendship. I remember being pretty see when I’d come home to visit. We’d just in Plant City for years. His work as a civil leader in the community included appointments upset and sad that my friend wasn’t going to vanish for the entire weekend. be sticking around to play that night. Similar “He was just larger than life,” he says. as chairman of Greater Plant City Chamber to now. I wish I had one more day to play with “When he was in the hospital, I visited every of Commerce, president of Plant City Lions my friend.” day. ... I would have expected nothing less of Club, director in the Plant City Rotary Club

POEM FOR THE GIBBER Columbia shirt, khaki shorts, a style all his own // The most down-to-earth person of anyone you’ve known Doing things that most would say they’d rather be caught dead // He taught us all humility, to laugh at ourselves instead In times of trouble and days of turmoil, Gibber was always there // To throw an arm around your neck and cast away your care If a person’s soul is measured by the laughter that they bring // Then Gibber’s soul was wealthier than that of any king As we celebrate the life of this unique and remarkable person // The pain within our hearts only seems to worsen We say goodbye to Gibber and though many eyes are crying // For we will never forget the man who taught us how to live like we are dying Forever in our hearts, he will live on in our laughter

— Brannon Wright

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TRIBUTES TO

THE GIBBER

and chairman of the East Hillsborough County Law Enforcement Appreciation Association. He also served on the Advisory Council of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center.

As a Realtor, Gibber was a member of the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors, the Florida Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors.

“He had a vision of what Plant City could be,” says longtime friend Lee Williams, owner of Felton’s Market. “He wanted Plant City to grow but wanted it to maintain its charm. He had a great deal of common sense.”

In fact, Gibber was responsible for involving Williams in the Lions Club in the early- to mid-1990s. Tired of his friend arriving late, Gibber eventually offered to drive Williams to and from meetings and events.

“He’d be the first one there and the last one out,” Williams says. “He picked me up, and then I realized I was stuck with him.

“He was the great encourager,” he says. “He’d pat you on the back if you needed it. He’d also kick you in the pants if you needed that, too.”

And, of course, there was that Gibber charm.

GIBBER’S GIFT OF GAB

“I’d introduce him to some friends who don’t live (in Plant City), and then when they’d call, they’d ask, ‘Hey, how’s your buddy, Gibber?’” Williams says. “He just had that way, that smile, that charisma, and everybody was attracted to it.”

Longtime friend and Plant City Commissioner Billy Keel saw it for himself when he went on a vacation cruise with Gibber.

“He could make friends anywhere and never met a stranger,” he remembers.

“The cruise itself — I don’t remember very much about, (because) it was pretty uneventful. However, the thing that stands out in my mind is how many people Gibber became friends with there. ...

As we were leaving the ship and walking down long hallways, I began to notice people saying goodbye to Doug. Nearly every person we passed said, ‘Bye Gibber,’ or, ‘Great to meet you, Gibber.’ One even high-fived him, and another took a picture with him.

“Doug was the type of person you could talk to about anything,” Keel says.

“And you knew that whatever was said, it wasn’t going anywhere. He would keep it in the vault. ... I’m going to miss him every day. No matter what was happening in my life — good, bad or ugly — Doug was going to be there, and I could count on him. I lost one of my best friends.”

Friend Billy Herold says he, too, saw Gibber’s charm in action. During one of their vacations to Anna Maria Island, Herold and Gibber discovered a little burger joint called Skinny’s. They sat down at the bar and ordered some food and drinks. Within minutes, Gibber seemed to have met every other person in the restaurant — including all the waitstaff and bartenders.

The next day, the two returned to Skinny’s.

Hey, Gibber! someone shouted.

Gibber! an employee exclaimed.

You want your usual? another said.

And then, to Herold: Hello, sir. What would you like?

On one particular night, Herold remembers putting his arm around Gibber and telling him: You’re one of my best friends.

Gibber responded: How many best friends you got?

Counting you, about three, Herold told him.

A few minutes later, Gibber said: You’re one of my best friends, too.

How many best friends you got? Herold asked.

About 400! Gibber said, grinning.

“A lot of people invest in different things — the stock market, real estate,

their business,” Herold says. “And then, they want a return on their investment.

“Gibber invested in relationships,” he says. “He put a lot of stock in relationships, and he cultivated those over the years. He got back 100% on his investment. (In that regard), he died a very wealthy man.”

Indeed. Six men were named pallbearers for the funeral and another 11 as honorary pallbearers.

“The first thing that you did when you saw Doug is smile, and the next thing is you laughed together,” says friend Duane Gay. “What a gift Doug had for doing that, and I hope I never took it for granted.

“Doug never made any enemies — but the way he made instant friends was always a mystery to me,” he says. “He would say things to someone upon first meeting them that — if I were to make those same comments — would get me run out of the room. But 20 minutes after, he said them he would be arm-inarm with whomever he had just met.

Everyone (who) knew Doug was blessed to know him. He had more friends than anyone that I know, and his friendship was special, because it never wavered.”

But, perhaps none knew him better than the love of his life.

PERFECT PAIR

Gibber text-messaged Carole Wright every single day.

Sometimes, it was just to tell her she was beautiful. Other times, he’d wish her a nice day.

“He just wanted to make sure I knew he was thinking about me,” Wright says through tears. “That’s what I’m going to miss the most. He was more romantic than me. He remembered the actual day of our very first date. He always had an anniversary card for me.

“And on our first Christmas together, he did the whole 12 days of Christmas,” she remembers. “Some of the gifts were small — from the dollar store or something. But from the 13th to the 25th, I got one present every day.”

Their love story began almost like a sappy chick flick. It was the summer of 2001, and Wright’s friends had taken her out to set her up with someone.

Gibber was at the bar that night.

“Gibber just walked up, and I never even met the person I was supposed to meet,” Wright says. “That began a twoyear friendship.”

But, clearly, there was more, and finally, Gibber asked Wright out on a date in June 2003, to the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center’s first Evening of Picture Perfect Memories.

“I just loved his heart,” she says. “He had a big, big heart — a true heart for people.”

Throughout their entire relationship, Gibber never once silenced his cell phone.

“Sometimes, I would beg him to put that thing on silent, but he always said, ‘Somebody might need me,’” Wright says. “We were having dinner one night, and he got a text from a friend’s

OBITUARY: Doug F. Gibbs Doug F. Gibbs, 45, died May 14, 2014, following complications during surgery.

Mr. Gibbs, better known in Plant City as “Gibber,” had been seriously ill and hospitalized for about the past four weeks.

Mr. Gibbs worked with his

father since 1985, at the family’s real-estate company.

He was a member of the Rotary Club of Plant City; a former chairman of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce (2007); a former member and past president of the Plant City Lions Club; a board member

wife that said, ‘He needs you.’ He stood up and said, ‘I gotta go.’

“He just wanted to take care of people,” she says. “That’s who he was, and I loved that about him. I always knew, and I understood. I wouldn’t have wanted to change that for anything.”

Although they never signed papers officially, Gibber and Wright operated just as a married couple would.

“I know that Doug loved Carole so much, and we spoke about their relationship many times,” Keel says. “I would often tease him and tell him that he better marry her quick, because no one else would put up with him the way she does. He would just smile and say, ‘Why would I do that and mess up such a good thing?’

“But the truth is, they were really already married to each other in every real sense of the word,” he says. “No, they didn’t have a marriage license or a wedding, but they were as married and in love as any couple I ever knew.”

The Gibbs family welcomed Wright into its world and vice versa. Gibber even started a family tradition with his five nephews: Upon graduation, he took them out to buy an entire suit and accessories to wear for Commencement. This year, Nathaniel is graduating, and Wright is continuing the tradition.

Together, Gibber and Wright showered their friends with as much love as possible. For those who were widowed or divorced, they hosted an annual Valentine’s Day dinner.

“We started it seven years ago and have done it every single year,” Wright says. “Anyone who needed to be there was welcome.”

They both shared a deep love for Plant City and served in their respective civic organizations. In fact, Gibber loved Plant City so much that he rarely wanted to leave. When they did, it was always for a quick weekend getaway.

“He loved Plant City,” Wright says.

“He thought if he left, he’d miss something. And he didn’t want to miss anything.”

Wright always will be grateful for the outpouring of love and support Gibber’s extended family of friends showed throughout his time in the hospital. Many friends visited at least once daily for four weeks; others stopped by twice each day. Some would sit with Gibber’s mother, Liz, and others helped disseminate news when the family was all talked out.

It’s the same kind of love Gibber surely would have shown had the situation been reversed.

“There was so much done for us — bringing food, keeping us company,” Wright says. “There’s no way we could ever thank everyone for what they’ve done for us.”

In lieu of flowers family requests memorial to Plant City Rotary Club, P.O. Box 1404, Plant City, FL. 33564, or East Hillsborough County Law Enforcement Appreciation Association, P.O. Box 4807, Plant City, FL. 33563.

“

About seven years ago, Tara and I had gotten two dogs. Halloween was a day away, and we were not sure how the dogs would take all the banging on the door and doorbell ringing from all of the children coming by to trick or treat.

We invited Doug and Carole to come over and just sit out by the driveway and hand out candy. That afternoon, Doug showed up with aluminum pans full of chicken and steak shish kabobs. He went out into my back porch and asked if I could lend him a hand. Thirty minutes later, he had my grill, fire pit, citronella candles, coolers and dozen lawn chairs set up in an amazing front-yard display. He immediately pulled out the food and went to work while fielding calls from everyone wanting to know what he was doing for Halloween.

With every caller, he would say to “just stop on by,” because he had plenty of food for friends.

That night, the entire group had such a great evening handing out candy to children, while Gibber was handing out shish kabobs to everyone who asked. By 8 p.m., the entire driveway was filled with friends just stopping in to say, “Hello,” and grab a bite of what Gibber was grilling.

Later that night, Tara and I sat in awe at how he had taken such a small idea and in one day made it into such a huge social evening for everyone.

Every year after that, we decided that we would all continue on the tradition bringing on more friends each year to Gibber’s lake house for Halloween.

— Charles Harris

“

There are many describing words one can use to define Doug as a person. For me, the most fitting word is “genuine.”

Of all the souls I have encountered in my life, Doug’s was the most genuine. He was always true to himself, his family and his friends. I have never known any one person that was so loved by as many people as Doug was. He touched more people’s lives and connected more people than he probably even knew. This would not have been possible without possessing a soul as genuine as Doug’s. He never tried to be anything other than what he was. He never faltered in his beliefs and lived his life to his fullest.

I consider myself fortunate to have had a friend like Doug in my life for as long as I did. He was more than a just a friend to me — knowing him since preschool. He was another source of security I had in my life.

I loved Doug with my whole heart and will continue to do so for the rest of my life. He will never be forgotten by any person that was lucky enough to have known him.

— Dave Edison

““ “

He knew everybody and everybody knew him. Everyone liked him. I don’t think I’ve met one person who didn’t like him.

— Tommy Sparkman He was an iconic guy around here. There are so many Gibber stories. It’s amazing how many people he knew. There were 17 pallbearers at the funeral. That should tell you something.

— Chris Sparkman He had the biggest heart of anybody I have ever met. He was one of those people with the rare gift of being able to light up a room with his mere presence. Doug was also one of the most civic minded and involved people in town; if Plant City every had an unofficial mayor and goodwill ambassador, it was Doug. And he was never boring, Doug had the ability to live life and enjoy the moment — no matter where he was or what he doing (even if it was cooking burgers at the Lions Club booth at the festival and he had to put up with a loudmouth, know-it-all-attorney (me) who was trying to be his assistant chef).

Right now, I am sad and I am grieving and wondering what Doug would say if I could talk to him one last time. I imagine that he would say the grieving process is natural, and that when we are done grieving, that we should never stop celebrating his life and his memory. He was a good friend for many years, and I will miss him.

— David Barnhill

“ “ “

Doug: You were such an integral part of Plant City and will be greatly missed by everyone that had the chance to meet you.

You were much loved and a friend to all, and our entire community is grieving for our loss. You left us much too soon. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and Carole.

— Stacy Dunn

and former chairman of the East Hillsborough County Law Enforcement Appreciation Association; and on the advisory council of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center.

Mr. Gibbs was the recipient of the Lions Club International’s International President’s Award and was named a Melvin Jones Fellow. Lions Club of Florida

named him a Grand Lion and a Mel Carver Fellow.

As a Realtor, Mr. Gibbs worked in residential, acreage, commercial and industrial properties. Through his work with the chamber, he helped plan Plant City growth that also preserved its small-town heritage.

Online condolences may be made to the family at wellsmemorial.com.

What a sad day this is. Tears are coming down. I will miss that wonderful smile you always had every time you came to the bank many times, as I waited on you and your family. Love all of your family and a big part of Plant City. Know you are resting in the arms of Jesus now. Rest in peace brother. (We’ll) miss you, but what an angel Jesus has up there now!

— Carol Jenkins A great and honorable man. A true friend who knew how to be a friend in order to earn friends. A treasure to us all.

— Ed Verner Compiled by Amber Jurgensen

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OBSERVEROBITUARIES Loutrell Brannon

Loutrell Brannon, 76, died May 15, 2014, in Plant City.

She was a lifelong resident of Plant City and a member of Transforming Life Ministries, in Turkey Creek. She loved to sew and garden, but her most precious time was spent with her children and grandchildren.

She is predeceased by her husband of 53 years, Billie Brannon.

She is survived by her two sons, Rickey Brannon (Patty) and Timmy Brannon; two sisters, Gail Smith, Jenell Ham (David); three grandchildren, TJ Brannon (Stephanie), Donnie Brannon and Kimberly Faulk (James); and five greatgrandchildren, Shelby, Tyler, Jeanelle, DJ and Sydney.

A funeral service was held May 20, at Wells Memorial, Plant City. Burial took place at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Durant.

Condolences may be made to the family at wellsmemorial.com.

Kathryn “Kathy” Keehan Fox

Kathryn “Kathy” Keehan Fox, 80, of Plant City, died May 13, 2014.

Born Jan. 25, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Mary Lauterbach Keehan.

She was the beloved wife of 47 years of Richard Fox, who survives.

Survivors also include a son, Gary (Randi) Fox; daughters, Linda (Dr. James) Sherman, Judith (Patricia Griffin) Christianson and Darlene (Robert) Franklin; brother, Jerry (Lynda) Keehan; sister, Mary K. Robinson; 24 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by a son, Jeffrey Macuch.

A celebration of her life was held May 17, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, Plant City.

If so desired, contributions may be made to The Salvation Army, 802 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL. 33563.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Teresa Ann Greer

Teresa Ann Greer, 53, of Plant City, died May 15, 2014.

She is survived by her husband of 28 years, John Greer; children, Matthew Greer and Megan Greer; sisters, Paula Holleyman (Max) and Pat Watkins; granddaughter, Lacie Ann; and many other loving family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Polly Sapp.

A Celebration of Life was held May 19, at Cedar Grove Baptist Church, Plant City.

Interment followed at Cedar Grove Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made to the family at wecare. io.

Timothy J. Haught

Timothy J. Haught, 72 of Plant City, died May 18, 2014, at Saint Joseph Hospital in Tampa.

Born July 14, 1941, in Casville, Mo., he was the son of the late John Ora and Alice Jenks Haught.

He was the beloved husband of Jo Carpenter Haught, who survives.

Mr. Haught was the founder and former owner of Haught Funeral Home and Southern Stake Mill, a proud veteran of the U.S. Marines, a member St. Clement Catholic Church, the Lions Club, Elks Lodge, Morning Rotary and Knights of Columbus.

Survivors also include sons, Joshua (April) Haught and Michael (Brenda) Strickland; daughters, Sara Haught Talley, Laura Haught and Emily (Westley) Hancock; sisters, Margaret (Marvin) Gay and Catherine (John) Chapman; and 10 grandchildren, Abby, Ben, Trent, Rachel, Kaiden, Jake, Sydney, Aubrey, Brant and Paxton.

He was predeceased by a daughter, Mary Catherine Haught.

A Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 22, at St. Clement Catholic Church, 1104 N. Alexander St., Plant City. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Plant City.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Anne Louise Knight

Anne Louise Knight, 46, of Plant City, died May 14, 2014.

Born Aug. 11, 1967, she was the daughter of Edmund Linka and Phyllis Staudenmayer Linka. She was the beloved wife of David Knight, who survives.

Mrs. Knight worked as a veterinary technician at Plant City Animal Hospital and the Valrico Animal Clinic.

Survivors also include a son, Andrew Knight; daughters, Heather (Andrew) Byrtus and Amanda Knight; granddaughter, Ashleigh Knight; and a brother, Ed Linka.

Services will be private.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Dainty Evelyn Lott

Dainty E. (Thomasson) Lott, 85, of Plant City, died May 14, 2014.

She was born in 1928, in York County, South Carolina, to Cora Lee (Neal) Thomasson and Charles Jack Thomasson, both deceased.

Mrs. Lott was known for her love of her family and showed that love in many tangible ways. One of which was baking cakes for weddings and birthdays for many of the grandchildren as well as nieces and nephews.

She is survived by four children, Colette Moore (Autry), Herbert D. Lott (Vickie), Darrell R. Lott (Dale) and Traci Wimer (Bobby); 10 cherished grandchildren, Christa Smith (Ron), Dana Metz (Todd), Valerie Coody (Anthony), Darren Lott (Crystal), Whitney Foster (Edwin), Jessica Desiano (John), Jarrod Ioakim, Kirstin Hughes (Zak), Jordan Wimer (Emily) and Kimberlee Wimer; 17 beloved greatgrandchildren; and many adoring nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by grandson, Rev. James Lott; and siblings, Ruby, Robert, Lester, Herbert, Marie, Jack “JR,” Ray and Marion.

A funeral service was held May 20, at Hopewell Funeral Home, Plant City.

Online condolences may be made at wecare.io.

Gearl Dean Minton

Gearl Dean Minton, 69, of Plant City, died May 16, 2014.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Minton.

She is survived by her sons, Everette Leno Minton, and Timothy Roy Minton;

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brothers, Robert McClain and Thomas E. McClain; and many other family and friends.

A Celebration of Life was held May 21, at Hopewell Funeral Home, Plant City.

Interment to followed at Bloomingdale Cemetery, Valrico.

Online condolences may be made to the family at wecare. io.

Luther Roney

Luther Roney, 81, of Thonotosassa died May 15, 2014.

Born March 7, 1933, he was the beloved husband of Barbara Cooper Roney, who survives.

Mr. Roney was a member of the First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church and worked for H.J. Roney Construction.

He was a U.S. Army veteran who served during the Korean Conflict.

Survivors also include daughters, Freda Infinger (Jeff ), Rita Greco (Joe), Nita Safrit (Todd) and Carolyn Thurman (Charles); sister, Ruby Papin (Paul); 12 grandchildren; and 13 greatgrandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Violet Roney.

A funeral service was held May 17, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, Plant City.

If so desired, contributions may be made to LifePath Hospice, 12470 Telecom Drive, Suite 300 W. Temple Terrace, FL. 33637.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Ronald Lee Rouse Sr.

Ronald Lee Rouse Sr., 82, died May 12, 2014, in Gainesville.

Mr. Rouse was born in Orlando, to Ulus Lee Rouse and Mary Bethanna (O’Berry) Rouse. He was a faithful Christian, a member of Beulah Baptist Church, in Winter Garden, and a U.S. Navy veteran.

Mr. Rouse enjoyed woodcrafting, fishing, racing and watching college football.

Survivors include a son, Ron Rouse Jr.; daughters, Gloria Hollifield (Neil), Nancy Bond (Dwight) and Marcia Fleming (Paul); nine grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

He is predeceased by his wife, Bonita Rouse; brother, Julian Rouse; and sister, Vilma Hall.

A funeral service was held May 16, at Wells Memorial Funeral Home, Plant City. Burial took place at West Oaklawn Cemetery, Plant City.

Online condolences may be made at wellsmemorial.com.

Don L. Thompson

Don L. Thompson, 61, formerly of Plant City, died May 12, 2014.

He was born Nov. 21, 1952, in Plant City, to James and Martha (Sparkman) Thompson.

He is survived by his wife, Debra (Blackwell) Thompson; stepdaughter, Erika Barcia (Alex); sister, Kathryn Rodriguez (Hector); grandchildren, Adam and Sammi Barcia; niece, Amanda West (Mike); and a nephew, Aaron Estrada.

A Celebration of Life was held May 15, at Wells Memorial Funeral Home, Plant City.

Online condolences may be made at wellsmemorial. com.

Larry Wade Webb

Larry Wade Webb, 71, of Lithia, died May 14, 2014, while fishing on the banks of Edward Medard Park.

Mr. Webb worked for TruGreen, in Plant City, and most recently worked at Walmart, in Mulberry.

He is survived by a loving family, including his wife, Cherie Webb.

There will be no funeral services, but the family is planning to host a celebration of his life in September.

Online condolences may be made to the family at wecare.io.

Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Emily Thompson leads Little League softball in its incredible comeback. 14 SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

SIDELINES Do you have a good sports scoop for us? Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

SUMMER SPORTS

+ Registration begins now Any children who want to work on their skills over the summer — or learn an entirely new sport — need not worry: There will plenty of opportunities.

The Plant City Recreation and Parks Department is hosting a series of four youth sports camps in the coming months, and registration for each has just opened.

Soccer camps will begin the earliest, with Plant City Lancers camps beginning June 2. Children ages 6 to 12 (6 to 7:30 p.m.) and 13 to 18 (7:30 to 9 p.m.) can attend these camps, which will be held from June 2 to 5, June 9 to 12, and June 23 to 26. The U6-U12 cost per person per camp is $90, and $110 for U13-U18.

There also will be camps with Plant City FC’s Greg Petersen for children ages 8 to 18. The camps will take place from 9 a.m. to noon June 9 to 13, July 14 to 18 and Aug. 11 to 15. The cost is $125 per person per camp.

Volleyball camp with Plant City Lady Raiders head coach Jessica Thornton, for girls ages 10 to 15, will be held from 9 to 11:30 a.m.

June 16 to 19. The cost is $130 per person per camp.

Basketball camp, with Plant City head coach Wardell Chambers, is open to children ages 6 to 14 and will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 23 to 26, July 7 to 10 and July 21 to 24.

Camp costs $130 per player per camp.

Last, but not least, Cheerleading camp, run

by Plant City coach Karen Snapp, will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 29 and 30. Girls ages 4 to 13 can attend for $65 per person.

To register, or get more information, contact Deborah Haldane at (813) 659-4255, or by email at dhaldane@plantcitygov.com.

EXTREME SPORTS

+ Skate park now open for summer Plant City Skate Park, 1702 N. Park Road, will be open every day, weather permitting.

There are 8,500 square feet to shred up, from 1 to 9 p.m., as long as skaters have a Skate Park photo ID and a signed release waiver on file.

Annual and one-day passes are available.

For more information, contact Deborah Haldane at dhaldane@plantcitygov.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2014

baseball by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

P.C. schools to play big roles in All-Star game Plant City is sending coaches Mike Fryrear and Gary Cates to the big game, while Durant and Strawberry Crest are sending their best seniors.

Sunday night’s Hillsborough County All-Star Game should be a good one: It will pit many of Hillsborough’s best seniors against a group from Pinellas County, and the action will start at 7 p.m. at Tropicana Field, in St. Petersburg. The boys will get big-league treatment, even appearing on the jumbotron before their at-bats.

Coaches from around the county named Plant City’s Mike Fryrear the man for the head coaching job, and he, his staff, and his players are

just about ready to go make some noise under the dome lights.

FRYREAR AND CATES

Although the Raiders didn’t have their best season this year, Fryrear is pleased the area coaches gave him their vote of confidence to lead this team. It won’t be his first All-Star appearance, but it will be his first time coaching one.

“They gave me the tedious task, and they warned me — it is very tedious,” Fryrear says. “It’s a very big honor,

Buddy Mines says that he gives credit to God, his wife, Dreama Mines, and his family for keeping him going over the years.

though, to represent PCHS and this community.”

After linking up with his pitching coach, Gary Cates (who will be one of Fryrear’s assistant coaches on Sunday), he found out just how tedious it was going to be: weeks of statistical research and speaking with other schools’ athletic departments.

“We went school-by-school,” Fryrear says. “I wrote nice letters to coaches and athletic directors, like, ‘Hey, please send me your nominations.’ We also knew

Mike Fryrear

about some guys already and took them into consideration. We broke it down into stats, and if they’re signed (with a

RUN, BUDDY, RUN feet feat by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

When Richard “Buddy” Mines was 37, he pledged to run at least 1,000 miles a year. At age 79, he’s logged more than 77,000 miles — and isn’t about to stop.

Writers have calculated that Forrest Gump ran more than 19,000 miles in his eponymous movie — enough to cross North America almost three times.

Here in Plant City, a local man has logged enough mileage to circle the entire world more than three times.

Richard “Buddy” Mines, 79, committed to running at least 1,000 miles a year when he was 37 — with a goal of one day reaching 75,000.

“I was overjoyed when I hit 75,000,” Mines says. “I was really, really pleased, but then I thought, ‘I think I’m going to try and do some more.’ I don’t know if it was a good idea, but I thought

it was, and I still think it was.”

There was no point in not continuing to keep track of his mileage — by the time he reached his goal, he had completed 60 marathons in 42 years, run all over the country, endured intense weather conditions and had just grown to love running so much that he couldn’t bring himself to call it quits. Injuries have slowed him down recently, but such is the life of an extreme athlete.

ALWAYS AN ATHLETE

Even before he started recording his own progress, Mines was

SEE MINES / PAGE 12

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

Eighty-two shirts, 60 marathons, and one big quilt Let me tell you thought was going to about the biggest be of an average size, quilt I’ve ever seen in perhaps covered with person. patches from some of I only came across his marathons or other it last week, when mementos.

I went to the Plant I don’t know if the picCity YMCA to talk to tures that I took did this Buddy Mines and thing justice: it’s huge.

JUSTIN his wife, Dreama.

Rather than runKLINE Before the interview, of-the-mill quilting Buddy told me he squares, Dreama (and, and Dreama were going to in one instance, Buddy) put bring a quilt — something I together a double-sided quilt

made from every T-shirt Buddy had ever received at a marathon, plus 12 others from 5Ks and 10Ks — just to fill the extra space. For those of you keeping score at home, that’s 27 years’ worth of T-shirts — without counting all of the patches Buddy received, which line the bottom hem of the quilt.

To really get a perspective for how much historical ground this thing covers, flip

Gary Cates

it over: it’s completely covered on both sides. It’s so big that Buddy and the YMCA staff had to stack two tables on top of each other to keep it from touching the ground, but that just barely worked.

Of all the shirts on the quilt and the stories associated with them, Buddy may be most proud of the shirt he received at the 1981 Marine

SEE KLINE / PAGE 12

SEE BASEBALL / PAGE 14

GLOBETROTTER Planet Earth has a circumference of 24,901 miles. As of last week, Buddy Mines has logged more than 77,000 miles in his life.

So, if Mines could walk on water, his total would be good enough to have circled the globe about 3.1 times.

About 14,450 miles of Earth’s total makes up its land mass, and the first person to have ever walked the entire way around was Dave Kunst — a feat completed over four years, ending in 1974.

If Mines were doing that, he would be about a third of the way through his sixth lap right now.

U.S. TOUR Richmond, Va. Washington, D.C. (14) Boston, Mass.

Flagstaff, Ariz.

Albuquerque, N.M. Waynesboro, Va. (3) Roanoke, Va. (2) Bluefield, W. Va. Charlotte, N.C. (9) New York City, N.Y. Los Angeles, Calif.

Pittsburgh, Penn.

Columbus, Ohio Honolulu, Hawaii Jacksonville (5) Pensacola Melbourne Orlando Tampa Ocala Atlanta, Ga. Warner Robins, Ga. (2) Clearwater Fort Worth, Texas New Orleans, La. Helena, Mont.

Little Rock, Ark.

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ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

EMILY THOMPSON Plant City Little League’s Senior softball team found itself losing, 9-1, early in its championship game May 17, against Polk City. They ended up winning, 19-9, thanks to a bunch of offensive opportunities and great pitching from Emily Thompson. She didn’t allow a single earned run in the game and shut enough batters down to allow her teammates to make a rally.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.

I’m 15, and I’m a freshman at Florida Virtual School. I’ve been playing softball since I was five, and with Plant City Little League for the past two years.

Before that, I lived in Georgia.

Just the other day, your team won the championship game. How did you do?

I did pretty good.

I used my drop ball and my splitter a lot, and they were working for me.

Where do you go from here?

We’re going to the Tournament of Champions, which I think is in Haines City.

It’s in two weekends.

What was the key to winning this last game?

Working together as a team. At the beginning, we were losing. But, we held together, stayed strong, and we pulled it out.

When did the momentum change?

We just realized that we were still in the game, and that we had to keep working hard to get a win.

What are some of your hobbies outside of softball?

I did play basketball, but I don’t anymore. I like to hang out with friends, that’s pretty much what I do.

What’s your favorite food?

Pizza. My favorite topping is pepperoni.

What’s your favorite movie?

“Facing the Giants.” It’s a football movie. It’s a Christian movie, and they’re not giving up. The team, they’re going to the championship, and it’s about their faith in God. Who are some of your favorite athletes?

Jenni Finch.

What’s your favorite softball team?

Alabama and Florida. Alabama, I grew up with their old catcher — Kendall Dawson. My sister played with her.

You’re from Georgia, but you’re a Gator fan?

Yeah. Well, I was born in Florida and moved to Georgia.

If you could have any superpower for the day, what would it be and what would you do?

I would be invisible, and just see what everyone’s doing.

If you could play for any softball team, on any level, what would it be?

Alabama.

That’s where I want to go.

I wouldn’t mind going to Florida, either. After college, I want to play for Team USA.

MINES / PAGE 11 a runner. Perhaps he wasn’t as serious about it as he became in his late 30s, but pounding the pavement was his go-to method for staying in shape throughout high school.

He needed to: In addition to playing football and basketball, Mines also manned the outfield for Valley High School’s baseball team. He’d play out in right field, but his coach would hit the ball to left and expect Mines to run out there and field it during practice — which he was usually fast enough to do.

Although he was good enough at baseball to play for a semi-pro team, Mines really wanted to join the military.

However, some injuries prevented that from happening.

“When I graduated from school, I had some ulcers, and I had had two concussions,” Mines says. “I was classified as 4-F, so I was declined.

“The first concussion, we were playing football out in the yard one afternoon, and some older guys were out hitting golf balls,” he says. “We didn’t know it. We were always finding golf balls in the yard and didn’t know where they were coming from, and then one hit me on the head — right above the temple. The second time, I was playing basketball when I tripped and hit my head on the same side. But, I think I’m OK.” With that out of the question, Mines got into the hotel industry — in which he worked for 38 years. But, he still wanted to do something to stay in shape, and his eldest son helped him realize what that was.

GETTING SERIOUS

In Richard Mines Jr.’s first year at Virginia Military Institute, he was able to convince his father to take up running as a more serious hobby. Buddy liked the idea, and he went allin. It was then that he began to keep track of everything related to his runs: how far he traveled, what the weather was like, and even what pair of shoes he wore each day. He’s never stopped writing everything down, even to this day.

“I have a big box with everything,” Mines says. “But, it’s too heavy to carry.”

Because he would work 17hour days at the hotel, Mines ran either late at night or early in the morning. For a while, he did this every day. It became easier when he retired, because he could then run whenever he wanted. And, of course, he took full advantage of the freedom.

“I’ve ran all over Plant City,” Mines says. “Sometimes, I’d run from Plant City all the way to Temple Terrace — about 30 miles if you go down there and back. I used to do it quite frequently — it was easier going down there than it was going back up. But, I’ve run all over Knights Griffin Road, down U.S. 92 and County Road 574, and I quit doing that, because it got too dangerous.”

Although he’s happy with

KLINE / PAGE 11 Corps Marathon. That was when he posted his fastest time ever, completing the event in 3:19:29.

“We saved all of my marathon shirts, and someone said, “Dreama, you should go ahead and make him a quilt with all those T-shirts,’” Buddy says. “She said she’d do it.

I helped with one T-shirt, but then she said, ‘It’s OK — I’ll do the rest of them.’”

Although the Mines aren’t sure when exactly they started working on the quilt (Buddy estimated 1990 or 1991 as the start date), it had been a work in progress as Buddy continued running marathons. He stopped running them in 2005, after a marathon in Arkansas, and some of his long, daily runs, Mines is most proud of his marathon mark: he’s completed 60 since 1978, when he ran his first one with Richard Jr.

MARATHON MILESTONE

One reason Mines often eclipsed his goal of 1,000 miles per year — at one point running 2,800 — was marathon training. Not only did it give him another goal to work for, but also it gave him the opportunity to do something for fun with his sons and family. Richard Jr. was there for his father’s first marathon (Richmond, Va., in 1978), his last (Little Rock, Ark., 2005) and everything inbetween.

“He and his brother (Barry) have both ran in several marathons with me, and they still run,” Mines says. “They used to tell me — they would always finish before me, but they would come back and meet me — ‘Hurry up, Dad! You can pass out after you cross the finish line!’ They were kidding, but that was just the expression.”

Mines used to complete one to three marathons per year, all over the country: Boston, New York City, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., are just a few of the spots he’s visited, and he’s known in D.C. for having run 20 Marine Corps Marathons. He has many great running stories, but there was one in particular that sticks out: the time he ran through a hurricane in Texas.

Buddy and Richard Jr. were running a marathon in 2001, in Fort Worth, when the storm came through. All runners

the quilt was finished shortly thereafter.

Although it appears to just be a testament to Buddy’s years of hard work, he’s quick to credit his wife for helping make every marathon a reality. Dreama, who Buddy calls his “trainer,” often worked on training programs to get her husband ready for these events and was always around to support him.

“She’s been really, really faithful,” Buddy says.

So, they have this giant quilt. It’s full of good memories and covers Buddy’s accomplishments well, but there’s not much practical use for it. It’s bigger than most beds and far too hot to use in Florida weather.

“You’d have to go to Alaska,” Buddy jokes. were instructed to get off of the course, but not all of them listened.

“You’d cross the bridge and, the wind was so strong, you had to stay in the middle of the road,” Mines says. “The wind would blow you off to one side, and then you had to get back to the other side. We kept going and, I guess after about two miles, the winds and things ceased. It stopped raining. But, all the water stations — the tables were turned over, they were gone. I remember a big piece of tin blew over and almost got me on the leg.”

He wrapped up his marathon career in 2005, and continued running just to rack up mileage and stay healthy.

NO SIGNS OF STOPPING

At 79, Mines’s running-related injuries are catching up with him. A few slipped discs in his back and a big toe that’s been numb since 1980 weren’t enough to stop him back then, but a partial-knee replacement in 2007 has limited his ability to run long distances.

Now, Mines likes to run around Walden Lake and do three to eight miles per week.

He still keeps a log of his progress, but at this point, he’s just running to see how much he can add on to his total. His doctors are somewhat reluctant to let him continue running like he does, but they learned a long time ago that Mines isn’t going to be stopped so easily.

“I can rest when it’s all over,” he says.

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

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NOTHING BUT NET by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

BASEBALL / PAGE 11

P.C. Colts score big with 3-on-3 tourney

college) or not signed and by their playing ability. Then, we made phone calls.”

The FACA All-Star Game, scheduled for the same day, snagged three of Hillsborough’s players away before they could commit to Fryrear’s team, but the final lineup is still solid.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center was rocking all day May 17, as the Plant City Colts hosted its annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament.

In addition to the intense basketball action,

there was plenty of food, a face-painting station and even an appearance by the CowBros.

All proceeds raised from the event went to the team’s helmet drive fundraiser.

Da Squad won the championship in its bracket.

Young ballers had a section of the court all to themselves.

The face-painting booth was popular with the youngsters.

GARRETT WRIGHT AND PAXTON SIMS

Tight defense was the name of the game in the finals.

The best team in the Plant City area will send the most players of the three schools to the All-Star Game. Garrett Wright and Paxton Sims — both Plant City Times & Observer Athlete of the Week selections — will help shore up the outfield and infield, respectively.

“Garrett Wright is your ideal center fielder,” Cougars head coach Butch Valdes says. “He came in and did a great job for us. Batted over .400, (is as) fast as can be. Smart guy, Team player. One of the leaders on the team. It was a welldeserved honor.”

Wright’s .418 average led the team, as did his 33 hits. Statistically, he played his best game against Middleton on March 22 — when he went 2-for-3 with three RBI, one run and a double. A few months ago, Wright committed to play for College of Central Florida.

W h i l e Wright was consistent Garrett Wright throughout the season, Sims had to overcome a slow start to get rolling.

“Pa x t o n didn’t start real strong early in the season, but his spirit Paxton Sims never fell,” Valdes says. “He picked it up and ended up being one of our leaders, batting over .350. His character and leadership skills speak volumes.”

After going hitless on March 18, Sims got at least one hit in 14 of the final 15 regular-season games. He was extra clutch in March 28’s 13-6 win over East Bay, going 3-for-5 with three RBI, three runs and two doubles to help lead the team.

Sims’ 23 runs scored and eight doubles led all Cougars.

AUSTIN BOATRIGHT

Ask any baseball coach to write a wish list for their team, and “reliable pitcher” will always be at or near the top.

Strawberry Crest head coach Eric Beattie believes he has one of those guys in Austin Boatright.

“Austin is one of the best competitors I’ve ever coached,” Beattie says. “He’s not the most talented guy, but he’s such a competitor.

He always makes the good pitch when you need it, and he keeps you in the game — every single game.”

Boatright Austin Boatright was one of only two senior pitchers for the Chargers, but he led the team to more wins (seven) than anyone else on the pitching staff.

Notably, he was also a big part of the Chargers’ season sweep of the district champion Cougars.

His best performance in 2014 came in a 5-4 win over Durant on Feb. 28, in which the senior threw 6.2 innings of four-hit ball — without giving up any earned runs. Just over a month later, on April 1, he led the Chargers to a 10-2 win over the Cougars, this time giving up five hits and one earned run.

“Any time he’s going to be our starting pitcher, you know that you’re going to have a chance to win,” Beattie says. “As a coach, that’s a great feeling to have.”

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

O

WHO’S ON FIRST?

PlantCityObserver.com

PITCHERS: Austin Boatright (Strawberry Crest), Shane Haight (Sickles), Ryan Anderson (Brandon), Dante Bosanic (Berkeley Prep), Angel Morales (Riverview), Matt Vaka (Plant), Tyeler Checkley (King), Tristan DeLuna (Wharton) CATCHERS: Jose Lopez (King), Ryan McCullers (Jesuit), Jack Syron (Carrollwood Day), Jesus Vega (Hillsborough) INFIELDERS: Paxton Sims (Durant), Cole Gordon (Steinbrenner), Randy Oliva (Gaither), Austin Sullivan (Brandon), Kevin Merrell (Steinbrenner), Paulie Russo (Tampa Catholic), Isaiah Arroyo (Tampa Bay Tech), Jonathan Alvarez (Leto), Allan Radice (Chamberlain), Jose Cuellar (Jefferson) OUTFIELDERS: Garrett Wright (Durant), Tyler Tyson (Gaither), Kyle Barber (Tampa Catholic), Alex Hanson (Steinbrenner), Bubby Terp (King) UTILITY: Devin Cerrato (Newsome) COACHES: Mike Fryrear (Plant City), Gary Cates (Plant City), Kennedy Duran (Lennard)

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PLANT CITY

RAIN

(INCHES)

WEATHER

WED.

May 14

0.34

THURS.

TEMPERATURES

May 15

0.01

FRI.

0.00

SAT.

May 17

0.00

SUN.

0.00

MON.

May 19

0.00

TUES.

May 20

0.00

MAY

TO DATE

1.21 (2013: 2.35)

YEAR

TO DATE 6.32 (2013: 9)

HIGH 94 95 99 96 93 92 91

Thurs., May 22 Fri., May 23 Sat., May 24 Sun., May 25 Mon., May 26 Tues., May 27 Wed., May 28

May 16

May 18

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SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES Thurs., May 22 Fri., May 23 Sat., May 24 Sun., May 25 Mon., May 26 Tues., May 27 Wed., May 28

SUNRISE 6:36 a.m.

6:35 a.m.

6:35 a.m.

6:34 a.m.

6:34 a.m.

6:34 a.m.

6:33 a.m.

SUNSET 8:15 p.m.

8:15 p.m.

8:16 p.m.

8:16 p.m.

8:17 p.m.

8:17 p.m.

8:18 p.m.

LOW 68 70 72 71 68 68 68

MOON PHASES

June 12

June 19

CUCUMBER PRICES SHIPPING POINT: CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA PACKAGES 1 1/9 bushel cartons Cartons

LOW $28.35 $12

HIGH $30.85 $14.95

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

May 28

June 5

, 3&

Chris Black submitted this adorable photo of Anthony, who was rescued at just 2 days old and covered with ant bites. He’s now a healthy, happy, 1-year-old feline.

The Plant City Times & Observer and Grimes Hardware have partnered to host the I Love Plant City Photo Contest. Winners will have their photo featured and receive a $15 gift certificate to Grimes Hardware’s Strawberry Town Cafe! To enter, email your photo, along with a caption, to Editor Michael Eng, meng@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: I Love Plant City.

Winners can pick up their prize at Grimes Hardware.

IT’S NOT OUT THERE

By Ruth B. Keyes | Edited by Timothy E. Parker ACROSS 1 Puts more in 7 That ship 10 Public commotion 15 Groundbreaker 19 Silverman and McLachlan 20 Famous Egyptian king, familiarly 21 Courageous 22 Social or septic starter 23 No matter what 25 Many a tribute title 27 Sanyo competitor 28 Loose rope fiber 30 In a timely manner 31 Butterfly catcher 32 Best-seller list entry 34 VIP of D.C. 37 Unravel at the edges 38 Catchword coiner 40 From Athens, say 42 Chef’s measure (Abbr.)

45 TV dog ___ Tin Tin 46 Type of meat or pepper 48 Jezebel’s deity 49 Best possible 51 “Alfie” remake star 55 Accomplished 57 Where heroes are made 59 “Cogito, ___ sum” 60 “Hold on ___!”

61 Parts of yrs.

63 Original position 65 Moved closer to 67 Bother 69 South American rodent 70 Pacific island staple 71 White-handed gibbon 72 “Hi” to a senor 73 Angry Birds, for one 74 German industrial area 76 Part of a cell nucleus 79 Roulette bet

81 83 85 87 88 89 90 91 93 95 97 99 101 103 104 105 108 113 114 115 116 117 121 123 124 127 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137

___-cochere (carriage entrance) Madison Avenue companies Use again, as a Ziploc Is an omen of Santa helper Let us know, in an invite “What ___ can I say?”

Scotland ___ Sleep state, initially Lights up, poetically Bob Cratchit’s job Irritate Dance type CBS logo Pathetic, as an excuse Eggnog spices Tape holders Not yet final, in law Coin of small worth Kin partners Six-legged carpenter Be humiliated Monetary unit of India Itchy feeling Operating at a profit How the invisible man votes?

“The Lion King” character Underworld river A Bobbsey twin Be a student at Lima’s country Lengthy test answer Number to tango Household duties

DOWN 1 Most humans 2 Trailblazer Boone 3 Attract

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

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 26 29 32 33 35 36 39 41 42 43 44 47 50 51 52 53 54 56 58 62 64 66 68

A Yemeni capital (var.)

Lord’s Prayer pronoun Malt suffix Kleptomaniac Dug in, with “down” “___, Brute?”

Abscam org.

It may have an ornamental foot Water-skier’s accessory Not just stuff Spiny-finned fish Part-woman, part-bird creature “Don’t bet ___!”

And others, in a bibliography Coated with ice Cast a ballot Saudi’s neighbor Fuel efficiency abbr.

Edible part of the lobster Not really Sphere Precede (with “to”) Painter El ___ Mid-verse pause Unabomber’s crime Seasoning herb Walk laboriously Toss out Letter opener Incarcerate Cadets’ sch.

Wrinkled?

Lamb’s product Eyeglass prescription measurement Present Fedora feature Do a printer’s job Make, as money Old Mets stadium

© 2013 Universal Uclick

75 77 78 80 82 84 85 86 92 94 96

Large Jamaican fruit Glacier snowfield Nile snakes Swerve off course Scads Salad dressing vessel 45s and 78s, briefly Jazz legend Fitzgerald Newspaper pieces Warm coat Soapmaking substances

98 100 102 106 107 109 110 111 112

Prison shiv Inflatable trait Compadre Of service Have dinner Wild, desperate attempt With a sharper taste Automotive necessity Bed and home attachments 113 Indian P.M.

117 118 119 120 122 123 125 126 128 129

Daffy Duck’s impediment First word of many tales Big-time movie draw Has a pregame meal “If it ___ broke ...”

“Do ___ others as ...”

Half of a dance?

One of 88 on a piano Cul-de-___ Suffix with ordinals

C RY P T O G R A M S 1 . G K J C G B K G U Y S G V I Z J W E AO G M E X Q Z K E Z Q Q S Y Q H U L G B V. U Q S L P H Y Z S V J H Z , “ C I W G Z E S B A S G B V P J R S G Y S G Z G B S B V, G B V V J B ’ Z M J Y X S Z , E Q G R S G B G Z Z E Z H V S G B V E O B J K Q J K Z J H U S E Z .”

2 . J Y H U U C U V — K H T C H U O Z FA P H U , J Y U T D P Q T K K N W U P V O J Y U M U V J P I T V — C U J J T J P Q X T D U H B T H Q O M H T G Q U C Z . J Y U L FA N W X Q L P I H U U O J T G U C AQ J N - K P W U J U O P V O D N U B J Y N V I Z K H T C P Q Q P V I Q U Z .

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