06.12.14 Plant City Times & Observer

Plant City Times &

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

A PARTNERSHIP WITH

INSIDE

SPORTS

SPOTLIGHT

PAGE 11

PAGES 7-9

Local leaders P.C. karate master star in mystery Rudy Rogers keeps dinner theater. everything old school.

PAGE 3

OUR TOWN

The Plant City Times & Observer congratulates the Class of 2014.

leadership by Michael Eng | Editor

Rick Lott selected as new mayor The longtime city commissioner also served as mayor from 2007 to 2010.

+ Elks Lodge plans Flag Day Ritual The Plant City Elks Lodge No. 1727 will host its Flag Day Ritual at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 12, at the lodge, 1501 N. Alexander St. The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks is the first and only fraternal body to require formal observance of Flag Day. The ceremony features every version of the U.S. flag, carried in by local scouts and veterans.

Flag Day is Saturday, June 14.

Rick Lott was appointed unanimously by his fellow city commissioners as Plant City’s newest mayor.

Lott, who served as mayor from 2007 to 2010, took the oath of office from City Attorney Kenneth Buchman during the City Commission’s June 9 meeting.

Lott said he was excited to again serve Plant City as mayor.

He served as vice mayor under

outgoing Mayor Mary Thomas Mathis.

“We have a lot of momentum going right now,” he told the rest of the City Commission. “We have a lot of things in place, and we’re accomplishing a lot. All I want to do is continue working with you to keep the ball moving forward.

I think we have a big year coming up this year. ... Thank you for this opportunity.

HOLDING ON TO HOPE

“I promise you I will do my best and work my hardest,” Lott said.

“I’m going to try to get stronger as a leader, as well. I’m setting that challenge.”

A proponent of economic growth, Lott said he is looking forward to working with his fellow commissioners to make more progress on Midtown, an area of redevelopment just south of Historic Downtown Plant City. He served as mayor when the City Commission adopted its Midtown

SEE LOTT / PAGE 4

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

As the cost of health insur- care benefits through United ance continues to rise, city Healthcare and property and employees of the City of Plant casualty insurance through City have something to cel- Florida League of Cities. Alebrate. Their monthly health though the league for many insurance will be reduced by years has had health insur9% — which could save some ance options available to employees as much as $130 member cities, the plans per month. were never competitive with Best of all: It’s for the same those the city was able to acinsurance plans. quire directly.

“It will be the same insurUntil now. ance company, same plans “HR Director Sanders Bush and same care at a lower became aware of this,” Sollencost,” Interim City Manager berger said. “We worked with David Sollenberger said.

Employees receive health SEE INSURANCE / PAGE 4

+ Move over, Bill Nye!

This week’s winner is

Astrid Manzano See her photo on PAGE 15.

HEALTH CARE by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Plant City Human Resources Director Sanders Bush worked to reduce monthly health insurance costs by 9%.

The first Durant Football Family Yard Sale will take place from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, June 21, in the school gymnasium, 4748 Cougar Path, Plant City.

This is an opportunity for the community to support the program’s summer camp costs. Organizers are seeking donations of gently used items, as well as volunteers.

For more information, to donate or to volunteer, call coach Mike Gottman, (813) 323-4347.

, 3&

Michael Eng

Mayor Rick Lott said he is excited to lead the city in 2014-15.

City employees will see decrease in insurance costs

+ Durant football kicks off yard sale

Briana Wyzinski graduated May 3, from Trevecca Nazarene University, in Nashville, Tenn.

She is a graduate of Plant City High and the daughter of Don and Renee Corzine, of Plant City.

Wyzinski double-majored in chemistry and biology and minored in mathematics. She also was active in many campus organizations, including the Alpha Pi chapter of Sigma Zeta, a national science and mathematics honor society; Resident Hall Association; Trevecca Nazarene University Honor Society; and more.

Following graduation, Wyzinski plans to attend graduate school at Vanderbilt University’s quantitative and chemical biology program to earn her doctoral degree in biochemistry.

FREE • THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2014

meal deal by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Hillsborough school district offers free food for kids this summer

FIGHT LIKE A GIRL Friends and family have rallied around 15-year-old Taylor Goethals.

Courtesy photo

Plant City Taylor Goethals, 15, recently was diagnosed with cancer for a second time. But her family is hoping her resilient spirit and the community’s support will see her through.

If one thing is true about Taylor Goethals, it’s that she has a fighter’s soul. Sure, she can rule a softball field. But the 15-year-old is about to play another game.

She’s ready to beat cancer for the second time.

Taylor was diagnosed four years ago with fibrosarcoma, which manifested in her hand. She had been cancer-free for almost

three years. But, that all changed a couple weeks ago.

It came back — this time in the lungs. And at stage four.

“It really puts things in perspective,” Taylor’s stepfather, Jeremy Rhodes said. “How I look at Taylor, how I look at my other chil-

SEE TAYLOR / PAGE 5

Anyone ages 18 or under can eat breakfast or lunch for free throughout the summer at several locations throughout Plant City.

Hillsborough County Public Schools again will provide free breakfast and lunch meals this summer to children throughout Plant City and the rest of the county.

The Summer Food Service Program for Children began June 9 and runs through Aug. 9. It will be available at 12 locations throughout the Plant City area.

Tabitha Samad, the firsttime site manager for the program at Wilson Elementary, said she hopes to be able to help the community’s children this summer and would love to have more children showing up for meals.

“As for the numbers, right now, we’re looking at about 40 kids in host programs,”

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

Samad said. “In walk-in, it’s not that big of a turnover. I wish it would be — it would be nice. What I’m hearing is, a handful of people for the whole program.”

The statewide Summer Food Service program, which has been around since 1968, served 10 million meals at 3,000 locations in the summer of 2012. Its goal is to provide children with healthy meals over the summer, when they may not be

SEE FOOD / PAGE 4

Vol. 1, No. 45 | One section Crossword...................15

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

Opinion ........................6

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

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

COMMUNITYCALENDAR THURSDAY, JUNE 12 Kinship Support Group — takes place from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, June 12, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

Lifestyles Fun Fest and Luau — takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, June 12, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Hall, 2301 W. Oak Ave., Plant City. (813) 653-1988.

Lymphedema Risk Reduction — takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 12, at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Medical Arts Building, Room 3, 3001 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tampa.

Surgeons and lymphedema therapists address surgery, risk reduction and symptom management. Registration required; free. (813) 644-6720 or BayCareEvents.org.

Safe Sitter — takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, June 12, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

Summer Movie for Kids — takes place at 3 p.m. Thursday, June 12, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.

Veterans Administration and Hearing Loss — seminar takes place at 6 p.m.

Thursday, June 12, at First Presbyterian Church, Multipurpose Room A, 175 Lake Hollingsworth Drive, Lakeland. Dr. Debbie Hendry, supervisory audiologist at the Lakeland VA community-based

outpatient center, will present the program. Jackie Bowman, (863) 6863189.

FRIDAY, JUNE 13 Double Barrel Band — performance takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Friday, June 13, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

Music & More — takes place from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, June 13, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

Story Time — takes place from 11 a.m. to noon Friday, June 13, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

Summer Teen Movie — takes place at 3 p.m. Friday, June 13, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.

Uncork Your Weekend with Skip Frye — live music from 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, June 13, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752-9100.

Uncork Your Weekend with Daniel Sprouse — live music from 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday, June 14, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752-9100.

SUNDAY, JUNE 15 Father’s Day Slug-A-Thon — Watch the Tampa Bay Rays beginning at 2:40 p.m. Sunday, June 15, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

MONDAY, JUNE 16

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.

BEST BET Paint Your Own Wine Glass — takes place from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, June 15, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. Instructors will provide all materials: paint, wine glasses and decorative items. Glasses are dishwasher safe. (813) 752-9100.

ACCESS and KidCare — takes place from noon to 3 p.m. Mondays, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

Reading Explosion — takes place at 3 p.m.

Monday, June 16, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.

How to Manage Your Diabetes — series begins from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 16, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. The seven-week series continues through July 21. Glenda Williams, (813) 3078015, Ext. 7111.

TUESDAY, JUNE 17

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

Little Amigos — takes place from 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Monday, June 16, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

Triple Threat — performance takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, June 14, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

Peace By Piece — meets from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, June 16, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Arlene Bailey, (863) 6443600.

Evening Book Discussion — meets from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. This month’s book is “Full of Grace” by Dorothy Benton Frank. (813) 757-9215.

Growing Together — takes place from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 17, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

Hurricane Preparedness — takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639

E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

Ribbon Cutting: Children’s Board of Hillsborough County — takes place at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 17, at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce,106 N. Evers St. For more, visit childrensboard.org.

Wonder Years — takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18 ACCESS and KidCare — takes place from 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesdays, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

Alzheimer’s Association: Overview of Dementia — takes place at 1 p.m.

Wednesday, June 18, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Stephanie Thompson, (863) 292-9210.

Baby and Me — takes place from 11:15 a.m. to noon Wednesday, June 18, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 752-8700.

Car Seat Safety — takes place at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

ª

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

farm to club by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Rosemont Farms cultivates BJ’s partnership The membership warehouse retailer will sell corn, tomatoes and green beans grown at Rosemont.

VEGGIE TALES CORN: On average, an ear of corn has 800 kernels in 16 rows.

Plant City may be the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, but BJ’s Wholesale Club is more interested in its locally grown vegetables.

For the third consecutive year, the membership warehouse retailer has selected Rosemont Farms off Turkey Creek Road to provide Florida locations with fresh produce.

“Rosemont Farms provided product for our Eastern Veg program prior to Farm to Club, so it was only natural to have them included into the Farm to Club program once we rolled it out in Florida,” said Dominic Viglione, produce buyer for BJ’s. “They always did a great job for us.”

Rosemont Farms is the primary provider of Florida Farm to Club corn. All 31 Florida stores will receive corn grown at Rosemont Farms. Some also will receive tomatoes and green beans.

TOMATO: Americans eat 22 to 24 pounds of tomatoes per person, per year.

About half of that comes in the form of ketchup and tomato sauce.

GREEN BEANS: Green beans used to have a very thick “string” running along the outer curve of the pod. This led to their nickname of “string beans.” In 1894, scientists found a way to grow the beans without the string. Today, nearly all green beans are grown without thick strings.

“They are able to provide high quality product on a consistent basis to give our members a great experience on a regular basis,” Viglione said.

The Farm to Club program began in the spring of 2011.

Florida was the inaugural state for the program, which subsequently expanded up the East Coast to 15 other states. For farms to participate in the Farm to Club program, all produce included in the program must be grown in the same state as the BJ’s location it would serve.

The program is a benefit to growers, because BJ’s is able to help the farmers plan in advance of the crop season. Usually, farmers grow a certain amount and hope the market is good, so they can sell all of it. BJ’s is able to tell farmers in advance how many pounds and what produce items it needs.

Courtesy photo

Rosemont Farms’ produce will be available in 31 Florida stores.

And it’s not just the farmers who benefit. Shoppers also get their pick of fresh produce.

Many fruits and vegetables travel long distances from the ground to the grocery. According to the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, in a study of 16 common fruits and vegetables, the average

piece of produce traveled just under 1,500 miles before it was sold to a consumer. Additionally, 39% of fruits and 12% of vegetables were imported from other countries.

To keep food from spoiling during these long trips, some produce is picked before it has had a chance to fully ripen

STAR POWER

SPONSORS

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

DIAMOND Jarrett-Scott Ford Rick and Di Lott Unity In The Community

New Hardee’s scheduled to open in August

PLATINUM Hopewell Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens South Florida Baptist Hospital GOLD Robert and Kerrie Gafford Plant City Noon Rotary Club The Verner Foundation Silver Sponsors The Sweet Team/Keller Williams Realty Mike Sweet and Steve Spencer (Mike’s Famous Beer) George and Cassandra Banning Dan and Shirley Raulerson Dodie White (table-winner prizes) Dr. Saira Khan and Mr. Les Brewer Edwards, Platt, Meyer CPA Felix and Susan Haynes Florida Strawberry Festival Gail Lyons Gregg and Cindy Gutowski Henry and Ana Falcon Marsha and Billy Passmore Sedita, Kilton and Company Poppell Insurance Inc. William And Elisa Carr IN-KIND Paul Hetrick (Paul’s Hand Lettering) Holiday Inn Express Regions Bank Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan Minuteman Press Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church Walmart Hillsborough Community College John R. Trinkle Center

and absorb nutrients from its surroundings.

“The Farm to Club program was created to promote locally-grown produce to help local economies and provide the healthiest options,” Viglione said. “BJ’s makes it possible for customers to have fresh fruits and vegetables that are practically grown in their own backyard.”

BJ’s has also worked with C&C Agricultural Farms, in Clewiston, and Williams Farms, in Punta Gorda.

Headquartered in Westborough, Mass., BJ’s Wholesale Club, a membership warehouse retailer in the Eastern United States. The company currently operates 201 clubs in 15 states — from Maine to Florida — and employs more than 25,000.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.

Part of CKE Restaurants, which also owns Carl’s Jr., the new Plant City restaurant will be located in the Southern Hospitality parking lot.

SUPER SLEUTHS by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor All the cast members were excited to take the stage for the return of Plant city’s Mystery Dinner Theater.

WHODUNNIT?!?

The Bruton Memorial Players presented “A Dangerous Night on a Desert Isle,” a tropical-themed comedy, June 6 and 7, at Hillsborough Community College Plant

City’s John R. Trinkle Center. The mystery dinner theater invited guests aboard a cruise ship to help solve the crime.

The cast included many notable

There were some wild characters in this year’s show.

Plant City leaders, including former Mayor Mary Thomas Mathis, recently elected Mayor Rick Lott and Florida Strawberry Festival General Manager Paul Davis.

Former Mayor Mary Thomas Mathis portrayed a news reporter.

By the end of the summer, Hardee’s will be serving its homemade biscuits and signature Thickburgers in Plant City.

Construction has begun on the fast-food restaurant’s new location in the parking lot of the shopping plaza anchored by Southern Hospitality off James L. Redman Parkway. Franchise owner Emily Kemp said she hopes to have the restaurant open in early- to mid-August.

“We liked the community,” Kemp said. “We liked the demographics there. There’s a great group of businesses.”

Kemp and her husband, Jack, own 11 different Hardee’s restaurants in the Tampa Bay area.

Both U.S. Army veterans, the Kemps moved from Boston to Tampa about a year ago to be closer to their businesses. They decided to expand east to Plant City for their latest expansion. It’s their first brand-new store.

Emily Kemp said James L. Redman Parkway seemed to be a good spot for Hardee’s demographic, with lots of residential and trucking traffic. She also knows Southern Hospitality is a destination store.

“People throughout Florida know about Southern Hospitality, so that was exciting for us,” she said.

The Kemps have been fans of Hardee’s for a long time.

“We love Hardee’s,” Emily Kemp said. “One reason why we bought the store is the food. I think the food is higher quality.”

And it’s not just the food the Kemps love.

“It’s friendly service with a smile,” Emily Kemp said.

To staff the store, the Kemps will be hiring locally and hope to tap into the community for other events in the future.

“We’re very, very excited about this,” Kemp said. “We think Plant City is a great community.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@ plantcityobserver.com.

faith by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Hope Lutheran Church pastor celebrates 20 years in ministry The Rev. Dean Pfeffer has led the congregation for 18 years.

The Rev. Dean Pfeffer and his family love the beach. And his congregation at Hope Lutheran Church knows that.

So, to celebrate Pfeffer’s 20th anniversary since his ordination, the church decided to throw him a tropical-themed party, June 8. The fellowship hall was transformed into an oasis — complete with beach balls hanging from the ceiling.

It was a surprise party. But, Pfeffer came ready. He and his wife, Liz, had just returned from a Caribbean cruise; their skin was bronzed by the sun.

“It’s an awesome congregation, awesome people,” Pfeffer said. “There’s lots of churches looking for pastors, but I don’t want to leave.”

Pfeffer has been at Hope Lutheran Church for 18 years.

Since then, he’s gotten to know his congregation, too. And although he always had it in the back of his mind he wanted to go into the ministry, he didn’t start that way.

Now a true Southerner, Pfeffer is originally from Long Island, N.Y. He attended Long Island University and received his bachelor’s degree in political science and his master’s degree in public administration.

Pfeffer grew up 15 minutes away from his wife. They even worked at the same department store in college but didn’t meet until a mutual friend introduced them. Hitting it off, they were married in 1983 and had their first child two years later.

After the birth of their daughter, the family moved to

Huntsville, Ala., when Pfeffer was transferred by his company, Grumman Airspace. Pfeffer was working as a domestic relocation administrator.

Deep down, though, he knew he wanted to serve Christ. His childhood pastor, Otto Fink, had left a lasting impression on his life.

“He modeled a good life,” Pfeffer said.

With the support of his family and friends, Pfeffer finally decided to take the plunge after four years in Alabama. The family put their house up for sale. A couple days later, he got offered the full asking price in cash.

They packed their bags and headed for seminary at Concordia, in St. Louis, Mo. Pfeffer completed his third-year

Amber Jurgensen

The Rev. Dean Pfeffer, right, and his wife, Liz, returned recently from a Caribbean cruise. internship in Wisconsin and lived just a couple of blocks from Lake Michigan. Pfeffer’s first job after ordination was at Faith Lutheran Church, in

Sebring — whisking him away from the bitter winters.

“It was flat — very different,” Liz said of Florida. “It was so hot. Could we live in this heat?”

After Sebring, the Pfeffers headed to Plant City. Since he’s been pastor, Pfeffer has worked to expand Hope’s reach into the city.

“We’ve really turned it around and looked outside to our community,” Pfeffer said.

Pfeffer is starting a new scholarship based on community outreach for Plant City High School students. The community garden has supplied the United Food Bank of Plant City with hundreds of pounds of fresh produce. A turkey supper has been held for years, with proceeds going to local charities.

“My philosophy is that ministry is supposed to be fun,” Pfeffer said. “David said it in the Psalms.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

LOTT / PAGE 1 Redevelopment Plan in June 2007.

The plan calls for a mixeduse development similar to what has been done in the downtown districts in Lakeland, St. Petersburg and Sarasota. With new spots for businesses, restaurants and, most importantly, residences, the project could help revive downtown, Lott said.

“A city is like a human being, and the downtown is like a heart,” he said. “We want to strengthen our heart to help create a more vibrant city.”

Since adopting the plan, the city spent $4.75 million on the demolition of existing businesses, such as GroMor and Stock Lumber, and to purchase parcels. The city also designated $1.6 million to clean up pollution from GroMor. Furthermore, the city realigned Wheeler Street, and commissioners approved a concept for the project’s Village Green space. Late last year, the commission hosted a workshop that revealed the six building types that will be allowed within the Midtown area. That workshop gave the public its first glimpse at what Midtown could look like.

With much of the behindthe-scenes work now complete, the city is ready to open the project to the development community for proposals.

“We’re giving them a blank sheet of paper, and we’re asking them to show us their ideas,” Lott said. “This is where the creativity comes out.”

Lott, who has served on the City Commission since 2004, appointed Bill Dodson as vice mayor. Dodson and City Commissioner Mike Sparkman also were reelected to new three-year terms.

After trading seats with Lott at the dais, Mathis thanked her fellow commissioners for the support they showed during her term. Mathis was the first female to hold the post since Sadye Gibbs Martin, for whom the commission’s auditorium is named.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my year — I really did,” Mathis said.

Lott, Dodson, Sparkman and City Commissioner Billy Keel all praised Mathis for

IN OTHER NEWS • Mayor Rick Lott and the rest of the City Commission presented a proclamation to the Gibbs family in honor of Doug “Gibber” Gibbs, a prominent Plant City leader who died suddenly May 14.

“Doug Gibbs and I ... were the best of friends,” City Commissioner Billy Keel said. “I, like many of you in the room, lost a great friend, and I know I miss him every day, but I am thankful for the days we had together. ... I am thankful for the work that he did in the community and this city. I am very proud that we can honor Doug tonight.”

• Smoke testing will be conducted June 23 to 26, on all sewer lines in the Russell Drive, Hunter Street, Pinedale Drive, Woodside Drive, Mendonsa Road, Gibbs Street, West Bates Street, West Grant Street, South Alexander Street, and Pinedale Meadows Court areas. During the testing, customers may notice smoke coming from the sewer ventilation stacks on the roofs of their homes. The smoke will not enter the homes, completing a successful term as mayor.

“You did an outstanding job representing our city,” Lott said to Mathis. “You gave your time, your heart and your soul, and every time I was at function where you spoke, you spoke with passion for your

FOOD / PAGE 1 able to get them. Although many of the sites are located in schools, the official website lists several other organizations that play host to the program, including the Plant City Family YMCA and the West Plant City Boys and Girls Club.

There currently are 12 listed locations throughout the Plant City area that serve

In addition to the stationary sites, Hillsborough County Public Schools also will provide a Student Nutrition Services food bus to feed the county’s migrant communities this summer.

One of the two buses will serve the Plant City area beginning June 16 through Aug. 8 (see locations at right). The bus will provide breakfast and lunch, and children can eat on the air-conditioned vehicles.

This initiative provides nutritionally balanced meals to children regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender or national origin during the summer vacation, when school breakfast and lunch are not available. All children 18 years old and younger are eligible.

INSURANCE / PAGE 1 them to save some money.”

The league instituted an Administrative Services Only agreement with United Healthcare and, over the past three years, has built a self-insured partnership of member cities. The partnership, which

2013

THIS WEEK’S CRYPTOGRAM ANSWERS 1. Big-time poker players can be canny, furtive and deceptive, but frankly, bluffing is part of the game.

2. A good man gave his son some blunt advice. No matter how much you push the envelope it will be stationery.

• Code Enforcement staff has been notifying owners of the new donation-bin ordinance, and bins have been removed from the following locations: 406 E. Baker St., 1002 S. Collins St., 1003 S. Collins St., 1206 S. Collins St., 1808 James L. Redman Parkway, 2442 James L. Redman Parkway, 2801 James L. Redman Parkway, 2403 W. Reynolds St., 404 S. Alexander St., and 420 S. Alexander St. In addition, staff is working to notify more locations, including one on South Maryland Avenue; the former Sweetbay, 507 S. Wheeler St.; and two at 211 W. Alexander St. • Excavation for installation of the fountain at Dr. Hal and Lynn Brewer Park was completed June 2. The fountain should be installed by the end of the month.

• A work order has been issued to HDR Engineering love of this community. I think the entire town loved you before but fell in love with you more. ... You were absolutely first class.”

Sparkman agreed.

“You showed your love and support for this community at every function that I saw

these meals at least four days a week.

Most are located near the heart of town, but others can be found as far north as Knights Griffin Road and as far west as Bailey Elementary. Parents/guardians can find a location near them by visiting summerfoodflorida.org or text FOODFL to 877877.

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

MEALS ON THE MOVE

THIS WEEK’S CROSSWORD ANSWERS

unless they have a defect or a dried out P-trap. For more information, contact Utilities Maintenance, (813) 7579288.

SAN JOSE MISSION 3238 San Jose Mission Road, Dover Breakfast: 7:30 to 8 a.m.; lunch: 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.

SPEER MOBILE HOME PARK, 5206 Gabby Court, Plant City Breakfast: 8:15 to 8:45 a.m.; lunch: noon to 12:30 p.m.

PARK SPRINGS APARTMENTS 300 Park Springs Circle, Plant City Breakfast: 9 to 9:30 a.m.; lunch: 12:45 to 1:15 p.m.

OAKBROOK MOBILE HOME PARK 4404 S.R. 574, Plant City Breakfast: 9:45 to 10:15 a.m.; lunch: 1:30 to 2 p.m.

currently represents more than 3,500 participants, spreads the large-claim risks in a way that protects all members from exposure to higher premium costs.

Two weeks ago, the City Commission approved the recommendation to join the league’s health care program.

to begin design work for the signalization and turn lane at Airport and Turkey Creek roads. The design phase should take 12 months, and construction an additional 18 months after that.

• A work order, in the amount of $347,894, has been issued to QGS for completion of the six soccer fields at Ellis-Methvin Park. Work is expected to begin June 16, and last four months. City staff currently is working to determine pricing for lighting systems. A small restroom has been designed to be located on the west side of the soccer fields.

• Plant City Police Department named Sgt. Dale Peterson; officers Jeff Hilsman, David Durand, James Burchett, Erick Sanchez, Jason Fowler, DeeDee Gregory and Justin Polk; and telecommunicators Lesley Gipson and Ashton Hagen as its May Employees of the Month.

The employees were recognized for their efforts April 24, in the pursuit and arrest of homicide suspect Master Brown. you attend,” he said. “I saw a different person than I had ever seen. I saw a strong leader (who) stood up for what was right. When you were doing that, I was very proud of you.”

Contact Michael Eng at meng@plantcityobserver.com.

WHERE TO GO Bailey Elementary, 4630 Gallagher Road, Dover Cork Elementary, 3501 Cork Road, Plant City Dover Boys and Girls Club, 2820 Gallagher Road, Dover Faith Christian Academy, 1202 S. Collins St., Plant City Knights Elementary, 4815 Keene Road, Plant City Marshall Middle School, 18 S. Maryland Ave., Plant City Nelson Elementary School, 5413 Durant Road, Dover Plant City Family YMCA, 1507 YMCA Place, Plant City Tomlin Middle School, 501 N. Woodrow Wilson St., Plant City West Side Village — RCMA (mobile site), 3102 Sammonds Road, Plant City West Plant City Boys and Girls Club, 901 Waller St., Plant City Wilson Elementary School, 702 W. English St., Plant City Most schools will begin their programs on Monday, but Marshall Middle’s will begin in two weeks.

For the least expensive standard plan single rate, the savings is $45.96 per month. The most expensive HMO II family rate will decrease by $131.09 per month. The plans will still be through United Healthcare.

All participants will complete a new enrollment form during open enrollment and

receive a new ID card. Any claims in progress will proceed as if nothing has happened.

“I imagine many employees will be pleased,” Sollenberger said. “Reduction is important to the employees.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

ª

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

HOW TO HELP

To purchase a bracelet or T-shirt, visit the First United Methodist Church Wesley Center, 303 N. Evers St. Taylor Goethals also has a Go Fund Me campaign to raise money at gofundme.com/9yen9c?forcedesktop=1.

She also posts updates at carepages.com/carepages/Taylors_ Fight/updates/3668361?client_code=allkids&ipc=mur.

dren. When the clock on the wall moves very fast, there’s a different perspective.”

Now, that perspective means savoring every family moment, before Taylor starts her chemotherapy treatments.

“There’s a storm headed for the house,” Rhodes said. “Taylor is a fighter. Taylor just has an instinct about it.”

her type of cancer was known to spread. And since then, she’s been clear, going on to live a normal life.

A true Southern girl, Taylor loves boating and hunting. She plays all-star softball. And she got involved with the Relay for Life, proud that she was a survivor. She even designed her own survivor shirt but never quite got around to printing it.

Until now.

ROUND ONE

ROUND TWO

TAYLOR / PAGE 1

Almost four years ago, Taylor’s mother, Lisa, noticed a small bump on her daughter’s right hand. It didn’t bother the Tomlin Middle School student, but, regardless, the family had a pediatrician check it out during a routine visit.

The doctor confirmed it was a tumor but not cancerous. It was sent for further testing — just to be sure. The result was the family’s worst fear.

“She didn’t want anyone to know, anyone to treat her differently,” Rhodes said.

She was shuffled back and forth between H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, in Tampa, and All Children’s Hospital, in St. Petersburg, and eventually underwent several different surgeries. After the third one, she also received radiation treatments.

“That seemed to do the trick,” Rhodes said.

Ever since then, she’s had sixmonth checkups that include MRI scans on her hand and CAT scans on her lungs, where

Rhodes helped redesign Taylor’s shirt for her oncoming battle. Bold lettering spells out, “Fight Like A Girl.”

He originally printed out some shirts for her friends.

But, once her story was out, the trend caught on at their church, First United Methodist.

“The important thing is that Taylor has support and knows that everyone is pulling for her,” Rhodes said.

Her second chapter began with painful headaches, short breaths and two trips to the emergency room. Both times, the doctors told the family it was just stress. That turned into a different story during her sixmonth checkup.

Lisa called her husband, who was away with the church’s Disaster Relief Team, distressed.

Not good. Not good.

The cancer had spread to her lungs. Even the doctor was in tears. He thought a nurse brought the wrong chart. Despite the headaches, Taylor was up and moving, living life with an unusual

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP vigor only she could muster.

Now preparing for chemotherapy, Taylor’s body and mind still haven’t accepted the cancer.

Instead of being depressed about losing her hair during treatment, she cut off her long brown mane to donate to Locks of Love. She always wanted to be a blonde. So, she dyed it.

She’s hosting her softball party. She’s going deep-sea fishing.

And she’s still watching out for her five younger siblings.

“Taylor gives up so much,” Rhodes said. “She has that heart, that sacrificial heart.”

For the family, it’s a shock.

But, they are coping — with love and laughter.

“Last week, it’s been nothing but joking,” Rhodes said. “Taylor is dealing with it a little bit at a time. There’s a silly way about her. It drives Mama a little bit crazy.”

RALLY FOR HOPE

The odds are steep. But, Taylor can handle it with a little help from family and friends.

Because treatment will damage her ovaries, the family is freezing some of her eggs.

“There’s hope there,” Rhodes said.

Insurance won’t cover the cost, in addition to alreadymounting treatment bills. The family is selling Taylor’s T-shirts and rubber bracelets to help.

It’s more about support for Taylor, though. And the community has been coming through.

“Right now, there’s a lot of prep work, knowing the storm is going to hit,” Rhodes said.

“We’re a strong family; we’re united.

“We can do this,” he said.

“Our chances of survival is only numbers. We’re here, and we’re backing you.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

observed: father’s day

Thanks, Dad, for the donuts For at least a few weeks, I best of all? I knew my father had our kids convinced I could wouldn’t approve. hear everything.

But, here’s the funny thing: It all started after I overheard My dad, too, is a drummer. He, our son, Lyric, say something too, had a rock band. And, I’m a teeny bit rotten from behind sure my grandfather didn’t aphis closed bedroom door. prove of his hair, either.

Lyric! I scolded in my best Later, after I met and marScary-Dad voice. Don’t ried my wife, Jess, and say things like that!

Lyric and Aria were Confused, Lyric born, I realized that, opened his door. although my dad was Daddy, how did you not a superhero, he hear that? certainly had superheBecause, I said, Dadro-like powers — none dy can hear everything. more evident than the At first, the charade ones he used in the not only worked but years he was a single MICHAEL father. During that also proved quite useENG ful. It kept both Lyric time, he showed many and his sister, Aria, on examples of strength, their best behavior. But, the love and courage — some so deception began to unravel nuanced that I didn’t appreciwhen I started asking Lyric ate them until I had kids of my about his school day, and he’d own. respond: You already know Sure, there were plenty of the that, Daddy. You heard it. typical childhood memories: There’s a time in life when Feeding the ducks, riding our you realize your parents aren’t bikes down our street and fishsuperheroes. You realize they ing in my dad’s boat. But, of all don’t have special powers or all the memories, the most vivid the answers. And, yes, they can were the mornings I spent with and do make mistakes. him at Winchell’s donut shop.

For me, that time came in In the year before I started my teenage years. I rebelled in kindergarten, each morning, I my own ways. I grew my hair rode with my dad to a day care long, pierced my ears and my near his office. On the way, eyebrow. I took my training we’d stop at Winchell’s. from years in marching band, My feet dangled from the bar paired it with a drum set and stool as I waited for my dad to started playing rock shows in order — a coffee and glazed bars until the wee hours of the donut for him, and a milk morning. Yes, I was cool. And, carton and something with

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.

sprinkles on it for me. We’d sit at the bar, stare out the window and enjoy our breakfast together. After we were done, he’d use a few napkins to brush the crumbs from my face.

I can’t remember what the shop looked like, what we talked about or even if the donuts were good. But, I never will forget that, in those few minutes each morning, I had my dad’s complete attention.

And, he heard everything.

These days, there are mornings when Jess and I feel like we are fumbling through caramel to get the kids into clean clothes, breakfast into their bellies and their curious minds to their respective schools. There are times we feel defeated — chewed up and swallowed by the day even before it really begins.

And there are two of us.

I don’t know how my dad did it. I don’t know how he managed to keep his career on track, his sons bathed, fed and clothed, and the house from falling down around us. I don’t think I’ll ever know fully the sacrifices he made to keep his sons happy.

But, I do know it’s the little things that have stood time’s test. And whether mornings at Winchell’s were designed to be special or merely the path of least resistance, they remain among my favorite memories.

Thanks, Dad, for the donuts.

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

ª

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

Maddy Keene, James Orso, Tyler Beldares, Lane Benton, Jaynil Patel, Dhara Patel and Kellyanne Hurst

PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL

CLASS OF 2014

Marco Antonio Aguirre* Elias Agustin* Cailyn Nichole Anderson*^ Jonathan Morgan Baerwalde*^ Hassan Donté Bailey* Mario Austin Bancroft Enterrica Deandrea Bates Luis David Bautista-Ponce James Tyler Belderes* Hannah Danielle Benton Justin Lane Benton Aaron Quinn Blankenship Darla Clair Borchers Carly Ann Bornstine* Dalia Brito Daniel Brito John Arthur Broome Jr.* Andrew Christian Brown Jeriah Nathanial Burlingame* Kenneth F Burns Jr. Thomas Brian Case Jr. Cassandra Celeste Castillo Guillermo Castizo Abel Castrejon*^ Melissa Renae Cerny Emily Cervantes* Julio Chavez*^ Alexis Bree-Ann Clopton*^ Kimberly Anne Coleman* Shaniya Elantra She’Karri Coleman Ashanti Natanya Colon Luis Alejandro Contreras* Ian Dale Cook Ivan Derek Cortes*^ Michael Joseph Courcelle Pedro Crispin Daylon Nechelle Crotts*^ Jalisa Marie Cruz* Elizabeth Cruz-Torres Jennifer De La Trinidad Selena Delgado* Giovanni A. Diaz* Talia L. Dieckober* Kelly Deanna Drake* Luis Enrique Duarte* Shelbi Lynn Dubose Lanay Marcal Dunbar Charizma Marie Dunphy* Chelsie Nicole Dutcher* Jeffery Austin Dyer William D. Ellis* Catherine Nicole Ervin Christian Estrada McKenzie Anna Farster* Adriana Pamela Fasano*^ Crystal Felix*^ Austin Marty Fernandez* Jordan Alexander Ferrer* Kayla Danielle Fields* Isaiah Jose Figueroa

Cindy Ibarra, Ciarra Johnson, Dylan Johnson, Rayquan Johnson, Jenee Matthew and Nick Johnson

The students were excited to celebrate Commencement.

Dakota Lynn Filipiak* David Fink Samantha Lyn Fitchett Mary Noel Frantz Tiffany Danielle Frier Kayla Jean Galloway William Alexander Galvez* Kellyn Elena Garcia* Tyler Jacob Garren Andrew Harrison Gmytruk* Ambrease S. Gonzalez Mabel Gonzalez*^ Cherrish Kierra Goodwine Nicholas Allan Charles Gorman*

Aramis Enrique Gorra* Spenser Elliott Goss Waylon James Lee Goss* Shannon Marie Graham* Tristan D. Graham Eric James Grant* Karelys Taina Guzmán Torres Jawon Alante Hargrove Karishma Nyantara Haripal Thomas Andrew Harris Meia Eymeshia Shantress Harrison Mikala Ann Hart* Benjamin Blair Hatch*

HONOR GRADUATES (4.0 grade-point average or higher)

Kathleen Denise Adkins^ Naheeda Mariam Ahmadzai^ Gabriella Rose Aimé^ Adam David Alexander Peyton James Almon^ Alexena Kristian Arnold^ Heather Rae Bailey^ Laurette Mary Barrera^ Cassidy Noelle Beard-Wright^ Ashley Renae Bishop^ Kacie Makayla Booth^ Nicolas Tyler Borders Bailey Ann Bowden^ Mathew Tristian Bozan Madison Lee Bradshaw^ Sydney Lee Bramlett^ James Mitchell Brannen IV^ Kelsey Kay Brevik^ Mireya Brito^ Crystal Estrella Brown^ Savannah Nicole Browning Austin Hunt Bruner^ Jordan Tyler Buck^ Jamie Rene Burke^ Abigail Calderon^ Eric Salomon Cardoza Cody Travis Carter^ Courtney Rae Carter^ Abigail Desiree Castillo^ Yesenia Castizo-Celestino^ Jose Luis Catarino^ Codi Marie Chappell^ Danielle Marie Chauncey^

Dhara Patel, 2014 valedictorian, delivered her speech just before she and her classmates turned their tassels.

Nathan Ryan Claunch Kori Lily- Marie Coleman^ William Christopher Collins^ Shanyna Denise Connoly^ Colton Reid Conrad Megan Brianna Copeland^ Diana Rae Corzine^ Madison Kristine Crossen^ Jonathan Lee Cruz^ Pilar Cruz^ Haley Elizabeth Cruzado^ Nallely Delgado-Mendoza Sarah Elizabeth Dempsey Logan Elizabeth Dibble

Haley Merresa Dixon^ Lance Buck Allen Doenges^ Jacob Robert Dube^ Chase Edward Dunn^ Lindsey McClain English^ Jordan Patrick Evers^ Arely Felix^ Kassandra Monserrath Figueroa^ Alexandru Sebastian Foaltin^ Jacob Paul Fortune^ Kalihanna Fuentes Martinez^ Landon Michael Galloway^ Stephanie Cara Galloway^ Miriam Daniela Galvez^

Lavarius Kraval Hawkins Brittany Nichole Heagney Martin Hernandez Jr. Khiyannah Emicia Holloman Kendall Lee Hostetter Daisy Selina Hurtado*^ Joanna Ibarra Austin Dakota Jackson Jaylan Terrell Jackson* Christian Jaramillo Francisco Javier Jimenez Austin Jeffery Johnson* Katy Alexandra Johnson*^ Shelby Danielle Johnson Jasmine Cheyenne Jones* Joya Lynette Jones Nathan D. Jones*^ Stefanie Alexis Kalel Robert Wayne Kempton Matthew Todd Kent Kayla Nicole King Sedrick Charles King* Emma Jean Kirkwood*^ Michael Oliver Klopfer Alexandria Ronica Levy-Bennett* Jordan Nichole Lewis* Kenneth Irish Liles Kevin Ryan Lisenby* Bryan Alejandro Lopez Moises Lopez Martinez Carlos Adrian Lopez-Ramirez* Quinton Sheldon Lovett Shandi LeighAnn Lowry Delia Hayde Lozoya* Alan David Gambrell Mario Garcia-Lopez^ Kaitlyn Nicole Gardner^ Jordan Trent Genevie^ William Arthur George IV^ Adrianna Nikol Gianino^ Sara Fay Girling^ Andrew F. Gonzalez^ Jeffrey Scott Goodrich^ Danielle Shante Green^ Shanzi Tamara Green^ Karah Yeona Greene^ Sarah Jean Greene^ Faith Lynne Griffith^ Jose DeJesus Grimaldo Ericka Maria Gulke^ Bryan Gutierrez^ Cristina Gutierrez^ Michael Francis Hahn^ Amber Brooke Ham^ Christopher Hunter Hampton^ Heath Bonner Hanks^ Taylor Ann Harrelson^ Madison O’Leary Harrington^ Karaline Beth Hayes^ Hector Hernandez-Martinez^ Ariel Marie Hickman^ Katelyn Jean Hicks^ Christian David Hoyle^ Caleb Ryan Hughes^ Emmalise Caroline Hunter Kellyanne Marie Hurst^ Cindy Ibarra^ Ciarra Lee Johnson^ Dylan Michael Johnson^ Nicholas Bradley Johnson^ Rayquan Lamar Anthony Johnson

Counte’ss Yvonne Lucas Benjamin Dylan Luchka* Austin Michael Luscko* Caralynn Victoria Mann-Boully* Santiago Dominguez Marin Alexandra Marquez* Deven Schyler Martin Paola Elizabeth Martinez Brittany Rene McBride*^ Montel Landon Jamal McBride Keyondra S. McClain Kayla Renee McClellan* James Francis McDonnell IV Alexandria Gabrielle McGarr* Carey Chyenne Nichole McLin Bailey William Meachum Alyssa Lee Medina* Daniel Melendez Nancy Mendoza*^ Tabethia Marie Merrill*^ Victoria Ann Mestre Nicholas Chase Meyer Alexander Donald Michaelsen Cynthia Isabel Milian Courtney Lynn Miller*^ Kasie Joann Milnes Kameron Tyler-Nokomis Milton* Jasmin Arial Mitchell*^ Jordan Lynn Monroe* Julian Gary Moore Michael Davis Moore* Joseph Michael Morales Yaritza Morales*^ Sean Francis Mulholland*^ Colton Tyler Mull Cornelio Negrete Jr. Alexis Renee Newton* Johnny Ton Nguyen* Kelsey Elizabeth Nickell* Jorge Luis Nieto* Lizeth Gonzalez Nieto Mauro Nolasco Jr. Victoria Olivares* Natalie Denise Oliver* Joseph Bradley Ordaz Joshua Noel Ordaz Janette Nicole Ortega Marco Antonio Ortega Oscar Padron Jesus Pantoja Dusten Jason Parker Emily-Elif Peker*^ Skyler Keith Perry* Noah Shari Peters* Bobby Lee-Allen Pettys Randell LeRoy Platt II Keyana Evelyn Polk* Lamar Donte Porter Jorge Quintana Jr.* Tyler Dalton Race* Omar Emilio Ramirez Carlos Rene Ramos Jr. Sidney Alexander Jahmal Ramsey Dakota Lee Register Emily Breann Register* Jose Francisco Reyna Jose Vidal Rivas Cody Lee Robbins Quincy Raynard Robinson Danielle Christine Rodriguez* David Rodriguez Ruben Junior Rodriguez* Frank Rodriguez Jr. Miguel Rodriguez Jr. Reymundo Rodriguez Jr. Lizette Marie Roman* Elizabeth Rosales Miguel Angel Rosales Robert Leon Rowland II* Maria Stephanie Ruiz*^ Sebastian Ruiz*^ Georgette Osama Salem* Selena Sanchez* Gretchen Marie Sanchez-Rivera* Darius Jamal Sanders* Jessily Santos Megan Nicole Schofield Austin Clayton Scott Erick Segovia

DETAILS Commencement: 1 p.m.

June 4, Florida State Fairgrounds Exposition Hall Principal: Colleen Richardson Valedictorian: Dhara Patel Salutatorian: Samir Patel Music Presentation: “Wake Me Up,” Denna Lemelin, Adriana Fasano and Tyler Garren Elizabeth Segoviano* Caroline Sylvia Sessa*^ Caitlin Cierra Shultz Daysha Ray Sims Korey Kristopher Smith* Latrell Tapua Smith Pariss Imanne Smith Katia Zulema Sosa Ashley Caitlyn Soto Kaitlyn Kaylee Sparks Ian Ryan Anthony Spencer* Berlyn Mozie St. Brun* Quinn Ryan St. John*^ Nicholas Marlin Stare* Jacari De’Shawne Stevenson Dakota Ryan Stone Evan James Storie* Austin Nathaniel Styer* Mackay Christian Swafford* JyQuis LaDale Thomas* Alexis Ariana Torres* Flor Marlenn Torres Karla Jessica Torres* Lazaro Israel Torres Martha Jayline Torres* Reinaldo Travieso Kayla Leanne Tucker* Courtney Denise Turner Maria Guadalupe Ugarte López Guadalupe Ulloa*^ Selena Lee Vargas* John Jacob Vasconcellos Saulo Uriel Vela* John Michael Via Yanelis Viera* Kerriel Lenice Vincent* Arely Navil Wagner Valeesia Annette Walsh Ashley Rae Walton* Jason Hunter Whatley Dylan Howard White Erica Michelle Williams* Hannah Ranae Williams* Kaydian Shamara Williams Natasha Leigh Williams Shianne Sue Williams*^ Austin Aaron Williamson* Matthew David Willis II J’Vonne Keottis Wilson* Skyler Dakota Wilson* Brooke Leanne Wyatt Zachary Robert Zolna* ^: National Honor Society *: 3.0 grade-point average or higher

Families snapped plenty of “selfies” at Plant City High’s 2014 Commencement.

Logan Dibble, Haley Dixon, Sarah Dempsey and Adriana Fasano Sydney Naomi Johnson^ Madison Alyse Keene^ Christine Mary Kenney^ Rachel Taylor Kummelman^ Matthew Lamas^ Frances Nakeisha Lampkins Quinton Montana Langford Trey Michael Langston^ Austin John Lefebvre^ Denna Jenell Lemelin^ Mario Leon^ Morgan Elizabeth Lewis^ Teresa Luz Lopez^ Ericka Dianne Lott^ Jene Giselle Matthew^ Regan Lindsey McGavin^ Nicole René Mendolia Joshua David Miller^ Kaitlyn Brianna Miller^ Emma Glenn Mitchell Zachary Paul Mondoux Tori Elizabeth Nizamoff^ Kendra Elizabeth Oleson^ James Thomas Orso^ Deian Pantoja^ Dhara Patel^ Jaynil Sandip Patel^ Samir Patel^ Taylor Morgan Peace^ Michelle Kabryn Pelham^ Elizabeth Ann Pengler^ Edward Penn Damaris Perez^ Osbaldo Perez^ Heather Nicole Plante^ Kristin Ann Podsiad^ Francisco Ramos

William Ryan Ramsey^ Ramon Antonio Rebolloso Isaac Reginald Rivers^ Jessica Dawn Roberts^ Payton Rae Roberts^ Karly Rae Rogers^ Francisco Javier Salas^ Corazon Saldierna^ Fidel Alejandro Sanchez-Lopez^ Dedrion Quintavian Sanders Hunter Wayne Shuff^ Chance Christopher Shurling-Hill Deja Nichelle Simmons^ Hannah Victoria Singletary^ Kaitlyn Michelle Smith^ Mason Gerald Smith^ Stephanie Nicole Smith Madison Mackenzie Snyder^ Alicia Renea Taylor^ Charlotte Faith Marie Thompson^ Alyssa Joy Thurston^ Cameron David Townsend Hannah Elizabeth Tredway^ Holly Ann Turcich Jordan Tyler VanCamp Maria Esther Vela Jonathan Villegas Maria Mae Walker Cassidy Robin Wasden^ Jana Lindsey Watkins^ Maliyah Lashaun Whitaker^ Destinee Nicole Williams Jacob Levi Williams Wesley Clayton Willis Terran Christian Winegeart^ Kip Gunter Wynne^ Marissa Renee Ysasi^

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

James Ledbetter

The graduates enjoyed several speakers and special musical performances during Commencement.

DURANT HIGH SCHOOL

CLASS OF 2014

Mitchel Dean Adkins Anthony Agostini Martin Aguilar Jr. Luis Angel Aleman Jose Valente Alfaro Dylan Michael Andersen Mary Jane Archer Christian Ramon Arias Kody George Aubel Aaron Gaige Barron Morgan Michelle Bates Amber Lynn Bates Jared Matthew Benfield Anna Jill Berg Zachary David Berkheimer Luis Joel Berrios Santiago Katlyn Ella Berry Damaris Betzabeth Blas Bustamante Bailey Norman Blount Autumn Brooke Bluhm Kayla Jo Ann Blunnie David Jarett Bogle Charles Brice Boswell Bret Hayden Boyd Christopher Alan Boyd Luke William Bramlett Mason James Bridges Cody Austin Brinkman Ashley Marie Bristow D’Mari Jontae Britt Michael Shannon Bayes Brown Jr. Demetris Terion Brown Camren W. Bruno Prince-Adeyea Columbus Campbell Trevor Noah Cantrell Oscar Eduardo Cardenas Beltran Trent Austin Carrick Scott Matthew Carroll Jr. Austin Anthony Carter Anthony Michael Celadon Isaiah Jalen Ceparano Ryan Matthew Cessna Bradley James Ceto Thomas Earl Chancey Christina Marie Chapman Ivan Chavez Addison Christopher Cheddie Jennifer Lorraine Chenevert Charles Thomas Claxton Jacob Andrew Coggins Patrick David Collins Di’Shea Nicole Collins-Flagler Johndavid Coughlin Megan Christian Cranney Destiny Taylor Crawford Stefan Giovanni Creadore

HONOR GRADUATES Gabriel Santiago Abeledo Austin Karathuruthel Abraham* Gabriella Marie Alfonso Taylor Anne Alfonso* Isabella Rose Anzalone* Eduardo Areingdale Kaylee Nicole Aszman Chelsea Elizabeth Barcena* Ryan Mitchell Barfield* Macaley Victoria Barrow* Rachel Kelly Battle Jacob Charles Belisle Jason Khalil Bell Shannon Marie Bell Daniel Casey Bernet Alina Marie Blanco Amanda Lauren Boatright* Cody Otis Boles Evan Michael Booher Joseph Tyler Bristow Gabriel Michael Brown Joshua Milton Brownfield Sonia Danielle Buchanan Dana Lynne Burkholder Daniel William Butler* Jennifer Victoria Butler* Tyler Austin Carr Raymond Jossue Centeno Sin Yee Chen Sierra Jane Christ Bishop Dennis Clark D’onte Malik Claypool* Madelyn Jean Clifford* Jesus Cobas Jr.* Sarah Michelle Coglianese* Jesse Lee Coker* Christina Marie Conrad* Rachel Elaine Cook Bruce Alexander Cooper II

Aaliyah Williams was among Durant’s honor graduates.

Alexandria Leon Tyler Austin Croft Juan Carlos Cruz Christian Cruz Alexis Von Presentien Culver Ashley Taylor Davis Emma Lee De La Torreugarte Joseph DeJesus Gerardo Grabriel Del Carmen Reece Paul Dinofsky Greyson Gerrod Dowe Kori Joy Dragel Dalton Price Dry Benjamin Aaron-Lee Dunn Joselyn Danielle Ellis Donna Christina Fahie Rachel Ranee Farkas Morgan Lynn Feierabend Saranah Fidele Michael Allen Fischer Iyanu Yasmine Fisher Austin Wayne Craig Cody Neal Craven Joanna Marie Crosby James David Cumberland Laura Isabel Del Castillo* Osian Ross Dickerson Kaitlyn Taylor Dixon Cole Ryan Ebdrup Chloe Marie Eberhard Holly Joann Edwards* Lillian Grace Eidge* David Connor Ellis Jamari Keiyon Benjamin Ellis Nicholes Michael Evans Alexa Lee Faliero Victoria Eugenia Fanning Taylor Jaye Farrell* Mylie Suzanne Feaster Alexander Tristian Fernandez* Francesca Elizabeth Deepabli Fernandez* Shelby Anne Fesperman Duncan Matthew Fisher Tyler Edward Flack Brandi Nicole Flynn Kendall McKenzie Ford* Toni Michelle Fortunato* Daniel Logan Fowler* Brooke Ashley Freeman Tristan Alexander Gammon Alec Philip Glass Kaitlyn Jean Gonzalez* Caleb Nathaniel Green Samantha Renee Green Tori Delaney Griffith* Jack Callahan Griggs Clay Anthony Griner Haley Joy Grissom Eric Dean Guess* Danyelle Nicole Guido Zachary Charles Guido

Saba Galia Fliegelman Lori Ann Fliehman Elizabeth Flores Cameron Allan Flouro Kevin Allen Flowers Mario James Fontana Curt Justin A. Fornolles Jazoya Shockilla Forte Haley Lynn Fortner Paul Antwain Fox Joseph Logan Frem Lindsay Nicole Furr Katrina Marie Fussell Christopher Scott Gammill Crystal Leann Garrett Ashleigh Hope Inez Garrison Kevin Ralph Giampino John Henry Gianfrancesco Alberto Jesus Gomez Brodie Matthew Gonzalez Amanda Nicole Graham Giorgina Gregorio Tyler Shane Griffin McKenzie Jeffrey Thomas Griffin Shannon Carrie Griffin Catherine Michelle Griner Stephen Caleb Gude Zachary Christopher Hanks Darby Lee Hasting Denzel Steven Haynes Jr. Savannah Lee Head Emily Kathryn Heidel John Brandon Hendricks Jr. Ryan Aaron Herman Austin Lee Horne Brandon Lee Horne Jajuan Izell Howard Alliyah Tamarrius Humphrey Rashaan Isaiah Humphrey Devon Christopher Hunter

Mayela Isidro Sanchez Ashley Nicole Jacobs Shelby Marie Januzys Taryn Leigh Jaskulke Wyatt Heath Jent Yajayra Thayz Jimenez Michael Tyler Johnson Hanzel Gerardo Juarez Tyler Michael Kernohan Colin James Kiehlmeier Savannah Marcie Lauryn Klosterman Morgan Taylor Labatsky Devindra Seelall Lachman Allison Jean LaFave Ryan Wayne Lampp Miranda Kay Lane Hannah Victoria Langford Hannah Rose Larry Leighton Lewis Leatherman David Matthew Lee Kaitlynn Hope Leonard Madelyne Dawn Leveson Kacee Danielle Lewis Valentina Lizalda Tumbajoy Jonathan Taylor Llaneras Landon Jason Lofley Konnore Guy Long Fabian Lopez Antonina Alessandria Loscalzo Nitaino Luis Lugo Rafael Lugo Brenda Yesenia Mariano Maria Rosa Martinez-Bautista Raul Rene Martinez Firpi Joshua David Mason Justis Alan Massaro Kaitlyn Lizibeth Massey Lexus Marie McDermott Terrence James McGee Kyle Adham McIntire Amanda Robin McLendon Garrett Parish McMullen James Pierce McMullen Jose Refugio Mercado Jr. Chantel Brooke Mikula Julian Alexander Miles Rubio Marisol Millan Miranda Leigh Miller Terique Stephon Mitchell Hugo Mojica Gabriel Molina Guzman Jonathan Evan Moody Jasmyne Jeanette Aswanna Mora Jorge Isaiah Morgan Mandy Jean Morris Hunter Brooke Morris Halie Paighton Nagy

Brent James Douglas Hovan* Kyle Jacob Howard* Mason Marie Hubbard* Brittany Ann Huff Shana Faruk Indawala* Nicholas James Insley Jahvon Abram Johnson* Kristy Ann Johnson* Alana Dane Jones Jesse Erick Jordan* Philip Cherukara Joseph* Monika Shea Kalson Daniel Jacob Keeler Rebecca Ann Kelley Jessica Lauren Kelly Riley Andrew Kerwin* Joshua Matthew King* Kristen Marie Kingston Natalie Rose Knopp* Valedictorian Laura Del Castillo Mariah Lorraine Kunze Connor David Labatsky Odalis Gabriel Guzman Cassandra Jeanne Lamothe Austin John Haley Lundeidra Charetha Lawrence Reagan John Haley Sean Collin Lawson* Corey Mark Hamm Shania Nicole Layton* Max Patrick Hand James Philip Ledbetter* Tara Lyn Hankinson Alexandria Labadan Leon Luccas John Hanna Chase Braden Levesque Kaitlyn Alexus Harnage Payton Marie Lewis Anthon Javal Harris II* Lacey Vanessa Locker Madison Bryce Harvey Tyler Joseph Long* Michael Stephen Harvey Madielynne Lavonne Lopez Marley Lacoste Hayes* Akahila Jazmin Luces-Myree* Alexis Danielle Heartsfield* Tytianna Alya Marshall* Enrique Hernandez Cody David Martin* Johnattan Hernandez Cheyenne Nicole Maury Allen Michael Herring Lauren Megan McClelland* Jacob Matthew Herring Jessica Nicole McClernan* Annalee Marie Heyer Mary Kathryn McCrystal* John Luke Heyer* Jordyn Makenzie McMillan Kyle Anthony Hicks Jacqueline Alexis Mercado*

Juan Carlos Nava Lara Irmaries Nieves Pascual Jason Allen Niven Alexandra Nicole Nixon Iris Olivares Samantha Lashawn Oneal Jose Luis Ortega Benjamin Owen Osenton Daniel Salazar Osorio Laura Marie Pacheco Devin LeJuan Parham Christopher Benjamin Michael Parkin Rachel Lee Pate Joel Paz Salazar Leonardo Perdomo Ismael Perea Jr. Christian Perez Prisilla Perez Dontriel Perry Ryan Persaud Madelyn Jade Peterman Nathaniel William Pettet Isabella Maria Piazza John Eric Pitzer II Ginger Mae Poore Christopher Alan Powell Jeremiah Aaron Pullman Kyle Vincent Queenan Cierra Theresa Rabine Dustin Matthew Ramey Erik Ramon Ramirez Matthew Fabian Ramirez Yasmin Ramos Celso Ramos Blake Christian Redden Blake Rendon Justin Tyler Renfroe Samantha Mary Rentz Juan Antonio Reyes Toni Louise Rice Serena Michelle Rivera Alexander Thomas Roark Cheyenne Nicole Robertson Teresa Elizabeth Rodriguez Jose David Rodriguez Kaitlin Logan Rollins Jorge Eduardo Roper Andre Rosales Valerie Denise Rosales Daniel Guadalupe Ruiz Figueroa Gabriel Antonio Ruiz Dylan Edward Rusher Garret Allen Ryals Darren Jarrett Salamone Casey Edward Salisbury Eric Salmeron John Anthony Sanchez Enrique Jose Sanchez Cooper Eli Saunders Sarah Lillian Shelton Deanna Elizabeth Shultz Rigoberto Sierra Michael Jonathon Simione Makenzie Mae Simmons Crystal Alexandria Simpson Haley Nicole Singletary Aymiey Mayree Slater

DETAILS Commencement: 8 p.m.

June 4, Florida State Fairgrounds Exposition Hall Principal: Pamela Bowden Valedictorian: Laura Del Castillo Salutatorian: Nicole Moore Music Presentation: “I Was Here” Tyler Dean Smith Andrew Mark Sparkman Justin Wayne Stallard James Edward Stills William Javier Suarez Tiara Shana Sullivan Haley Jill Sumner Shebin Sunny Thomas Paul Swain Kyle David Swensen Ciara Lynn Swinson Gianna Francesca Tagliarini Juan Carlos Tamayo Kayla Marie Tarver Kaitlyn Ann Taylor Cody Lee Thomas Ashley Maureen Thomason Morgan Elizabeth Thomson Emily Lauren Thornsten-Riley Tairan James Thornton Chad McKinley Tidwell Kelli Maria Tidwell Jonathan Patrick Tiner Kurt Ashley Trussell Michael Joseph Turney Sean Michael Umberger Alfonso Valadez Hunter Waite Van De Boe Patrick Gabriel van Hoek Kaylee Annette Varnum Phillip Garland Varnum Vilma Vazquez Alexis Marie Velasco Bailey Lynn Vilar Jesus Villarreal Nicholas James Viveiros Jamie Deanne Walkingstick Matthew Levi Waltz Daniel Wade Watford Garrett Mitchell West Collin Michael Wetzel Shaquila Antonatte White Justin Michael Wilbur Alexandria Denise Williams William Anthony Williams Keenya Jeradja Wright Nathan Paul Wright Samuel Floyd Wright Kyleigh Elizabeth Youmans Altowknee Marquis Keevion Young Adam Alexander Yuhas *: National Honor Society

Sydney Harber and Haley Sumner Kaitlin Brooke Mizell Nicole Elaine Moore* Jasmyne Jeanette Mora Alexis Kaye Morales Peter John-Paul Moran* Kelsey Nicole Morton* Michael Anthony Mourtos Brittney Nicole Mullins Alexa Nicole Nardello Philip Joseph Nessi Mirca Isabelle Núñez Haley Ann O’Brien* Jenna Louise Oddo* Ciara Angelyn Ogden Peter Zachary Palsis Kirsten Marie Parker Mathew Stephen Parks Megan Cheyenne Pearson Alyna Phromsopha Allyssa Michelle Polk Haley Alexandra Price Jessie Kyle Pullaro Aaron Pum Kevin Andrew Ray Jevonte Reaves Stephen Richard Reele Blake Rendon Kayla Joann Rhoden Jenayda Naomi Rivera* Jorge Luis Roldan Natalia Marie Roman-Gonzalez Heather Marie Ross* Abiel Salmeron Noe Salmeron Alexander John Scech* Jacob Stanley Scolaro* Haley Amanda Sedgwick* Joseph Edward G Shannon Alyssa Joyce Shepherd* Susan Marie Sherrouse Andrew Charles Shinault

Paxton Tanner Sims Morgan Leigh Sistrunk* Justin Philip Smith Cassidy Victoria Sorrells Sierra Nicole Sortore* Jordan Lee Spriggs Shana Marie Stein Manuel Angel Suarez-Balcedo Hanna Mariem Suqi Hunter Dean Sutherland* Alexander Cain Sykes Justin David Taylor* Madison Nicole Taylor Tobin Thomas* Lexi Noelle Thompson* Marissa Denise Thompson* Charles Jacob Thornton Christopher Brian Tice Morgan Alexis Trask* Freedom Leigh Tucker Jacquelyn Faith Valdes Trey J. VanDeGrift* Jessi Rae Varnum* Jennifer Lyn Vasiloff* Ileana Caridad Vazquez Sajid Nahet Velez Lugo Brianna Lin Verble Tyler David Walker* Ashley Anna Wamble Lane Aaron Weaver* Adam James Wellman Alexandra Nicole Wenrich Nicholas Howard Wilbur Laura Anne Wilhelm* Aaliyah Ama Williams* Alexus Christine Williams Jessica Caitlyn Williams* Sierra Lorda Wilson Matthew Alexander Winner Alissa Brianna Wittman-Degrange Garrett Louis Wright*

ª

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

Dietrich Mendoza snapped a picture of Rosalva Santiago, Crystal Lopez and Leticia Mandujano.

STRAWBERRY CREST

CLASS OF 2014

Chance Thomas Akers Samantha Gene Alldredge Jorge Javier Almanzan Graciela Alvarado Devon James Amoroso Francisco Anaya Jr. Austin Alan Arenal* Jacorey Terell Ashley Clayton Samuel Ashmore Travis Wesley Austin Nicholas Michael Bailey Billy Joseph Baker David Carl Baker Jr. Stormie Sunshine Barnes Tyler Calvin Barnett Angelica Bautista Floricela Bautista-Ramos* Viktoriah Renee Bayron Madalyn Moné Bell* Cedric Antonio Bellard Brendan Michael Bender William Keith Bender III Mistic Hazelyn Joyce Bennett Logan Alan Bennett Dakota Wesley Benton Jonathan Eric Berkman Kinzee Arianna Beveard Cole Thomas Blackburn Aric Ian Blair* Tristan Michelle Blevins Austin James Boatright Jesse Lynn Brannon Trevon Deandre Broadnax Alexis Ray Brown Daniel Jay Brown Christopher John Buterbaugh Eduardo Cabrales Jr. Kyle Cordale Cain Samantha JoAnn Call Francisco Carrillo-Hurtado

Jonathan Epsinal, James Coss and Bradley Benefield Alexander Jake Carswell Sonia Castro Matthew-David Robert Chaney Eduardo Chavez Robert Michael Ciccone Demi Morgan Coble William Tyler Cole Eduardo Contreras Jr. Nicolas Ira Cordero Sonia Damayanti Correa James Frank Coss Ty John-Charles Coufal Joseph Andrew Coulliette Kelsie Nicole Creamer Cheyenne Marie Crumley Gerardo Antonio Cruz Justin Alexi Cruz* Victor Cruz-Bautista Avia Natasha Dewar Alicia Dawn Diaz

David Alexander Dixon Morgan Rochelle Drapeza* Raymundo Duenas-Chavez Anfernee Espinoza James Marcus Everett Jr. Khyla Ranae Faison Shelton Winslow Faison II Kathryn Glenn Farlow* Rachael Lynn Farmer Solimar Figueroa Teressa Nicole Fones Brittany Shantel Forté Mia Chantel Fung Carlton Exume Ganthier Flabio Cesar Garcia* Jose Luis Garcia Carina Garcia-Cortez Beatriz Garcia-Pascual Macy Renee Gay* Bernard Davey Giguere

Austin James Ginther Kaylee Brianna Giza Adriana Gonzalez Alexis Daryen Gonzalez Marie Jenise Gonzalez Diaz Joseph Daniel Gonzalez IV Jared Elisha Guilford Cesar Ivan Gutierrez Guadalupe Gutierrez Brianna Grace-Mary Hackett Aaron Timothy Haddock Tinika Michelle Hall Bryce Evan Harrell Miranda Leigh Harrison Kanen Chase Hatton Brendon Richard Headley Peng Her Fernando Gabriel Hernandez Jesse Trejo Hernandez Juan Carlos Hernandez Luis Miguel Hernandez Nikole Marie Hernandez Leonardo Hernandez Ramirez Mirian Hernandez-Ramirez* Pedro Herrera Rios Caleb Daniel Hobbs David Cecil Holley Jr. Sean Christopher Holt Jr. Timothy Benjamin Hooker Tamarzé Cortez Hunter Joshua Luke Hyde Gavino Ibarra Monrissa Lanette James Christopher Matthew Johnson Atlanta Latice Jones* Shawn Lamar Jones Adam Jonathon Kampmeier Jonathan Patrick Kampmeier Ambria Shalen Keys* Zachary James Koch*

HONOR GRADUATES Cesar Abadia Jr.* Sophia Joseph Abraham^* Katherine Nichole Adkinson* Kimberly Marina Aguilar* Abimael Albiter* Samuel Patrick Alfonso^* Cortney Nicole Alleyne* Jessica Nicole Thomae Alzamora^* Ashlynn Capri Andrews^* David Julien Aponte^ Erika Maria Armijo* Thipatai Arthan* Shivani Arza^* Daryl O’Shea Bagley Jr.^* Kristin Nicole Baker Matthew Davis Baker^ David Charles Bean* Bradley Eugene Benefield^* Arianna Danielle Bennett* Samantha Ranee Best Samantha Joy Bigornia^* Kai Francois Billings^* Ariel Kayla Blackwood^* Daniel Coulson Blair^ Zachary Daniel Bodden^ Morgan Breann Boehning Jade Nicole Bollett* Devon Grace Bonnell^* Jordan Alexis Bowers* Danielle Joyce Boyd* Elizabeth Ann Bradford^* Eric Yoel Brito-Almeida* Miranda Rose Brophy^* Jon Morgan Browning^ Summer Maria Burbage Victoria Rose Burrus* Aliyah Nicole Caldas^* Jonathan Ray Calzadilla^* Daniella Marie Camero* Megan Jane Campbell^* Tania Campos* Andrés Ramón Caraballo* Sean Graham Carleton Allison Lindsay Carter^* Clarissa Castro* Malik Berkeley Channer Alexis Brianne Bower* Tiffany Racheal Brightwell^* Jessica Chavez^* Maria Selena Chavez-Gallegos* Robert Roch Chrostowski^* Logan Chandler Coats^*

Strawberry Crest’s honor graduates received special cords for their achievements.

Matthew Steven Collado^* Joseph Leonard Connors* Marissa Suzanne Cooper* Seamus Sahalatt Corbett* Nastassja Cordero* David Felipe Corredor Home* Juan Edwardo Corredor Home* Andrew Daen Coss* Karlie Brianne Cowell^* Jarrett Bryce Cravey* Dominique KrisAnn Cruickshank* Jessica Lopez Cruz* Skyler Lea Davis* Alexander James Dawson Samantha Nicole Dellaquilla Kiersten Mae Denny* Darian Germania Diaz* Paola Andrea Diaz-Guzman* Brian Huynh Do^* David Michael Doogah^* Michael Alexander Dunn* Kayla Joanne Eaton Lee Don Edwards II^* Tyler David Ellison Jonathan Alexander Espinal^* Berenice Espinoza* Lauren Taylor Evans^*

Sebastian Ryan Fearon^* Angelina Maria Gallastegui* Mireya Garcia* Christelle Annoncia GeorgesLouis* Hannah Fawn Gibbs^* Kelvin Desmon Gibson II^* Alison Nicole Ginther* Tyler Mullis Glenn* Miriam Del Rosario Godinez* Alejandro Jesus Gonzalez* Gisela Gonzalez* Aliyah Ashlee Gregory Austin David Griffin David Guillen* Andre Juan Guzman* Fasika Johannes Hailu^* Annika Lea Ellenbogen^* Kyndall Delaney Hallman Cody Lee Hancock* Victoria Sage Harris^* Timothy Michael Hartwick^* Alejandra Hernandez* Ana Cristina Hernandez* Virgen Lucero Hernandez-Maya Margarita Hernandez Peña* Iyari Herrera Rivera*

Jessica Ashley Hier^* Kathryn Marie Hilber^* Naomi Christine Hilton Chandler Joseph Houghtalin^* Yasmin Ibarra^* Merinn Elisabeth Jacobs^* Kayleigh Nicole Johnson Kendall Kenya Johnson^* Derrick Manquice Jordan Jr.* ^ Justina Joseph^* Aly Leigh Joyner* Joshua Carson Judge^* Rebecca Grace Karakad^* Austin Lee Kelley^ Lance Joseph^* Marisa Ellen Kett^* Shaquille Hussain Khan^ Zachary Edward Kitzis* Kristin Marlee Knotts^* Chelsea Marie Kohler* Nicholas Dominic Kubecka* Vishnutheertha Ashok Kulkarni^* Jessica Lee Larson* Austin Mathew Lassiter* Alesha Marie Lawhon* Erik James Legge^ Jessica Rose Lehman^*

Kyle David Kostelnik Allison Nicole Langley Jordan Ryan Lastra Faisal Shahid Latif* Keneé Alexis Lee* Alexis Morgan Lehtola William Aaron Lewis Luis Alberto Leyva-Hernandez Joseph Dale Long II Alejandro Lopez Angelica Lopez Angelica Rosario Lopez Crystal Lopez Susana Lopez Rojas Pablo Fernando Lopez Rosales Jesus Lozoya Jacob Lee Lumsden Jose Guadalupe Luna Yesenia Maldonado Luis Martinez Hernandez Manuel Leopoldo Martinez Jr. Bailee Nicole Matthews Chase Deon McClennon Jordan Elise McCullough Monique Nicole McDonald Jacob Tanner McGovern Kasey Brooke McGregor Lilibeth Melendez Dietrich Alexander MendozaGreenwald Rashone Devon Mills Jr. Andrew Leaston Monroe Lissette Montes Emily Abigail Montoya Marla Tiffany Montoya Sarah-Jean Aryanna Moody Caleb Craig Moore Aldair Moralez-Sanchez Lorenzo Morua Jr. Luke Christian Mueller Alexander Murray Beril Nar Jamil Cristobal Naranjo Garcia Calen Joshua Neal Samuel Adaire Niebel Albert Edward Nunez Sarah Paige Odom Maria Felix Oro Bridget Ortega Cecilia Ann Ortiz Cathleen Elizabeth Pacheco Alexis Rachelle Parker Devin Laurance Parks Mackenzie Denise Payne Omar Eligio Paz Ashley Nicole Peacock Dustin Lance Pepper Chris Perez Jisela Pineda-Salinas Richard Thomas Pitt Jake Alexander Pitts Tayler Rae Pitts Dustin Robert Poole Kaitlyn Kyler Pressler Alexis Quintero Kayla Nichole Ransom Trystan Nicole Reibsome Charity Gabrielle Reyes* Peter William Reyle Lilliana Rios Jessica Lynn Robbins Ernest Johnathon-Charles Robinson Arturo Edgar Rodriguez Jr. Kassandra Romero Leonor Teresa Rosado Yesenia Guadalupe Ruiz Nathan Anthony Russo James Ronald Rutland II Giovanni Salto Brooke Christina Samuels Marisol Sanchez Sergio Elias Sanchez Cortez Florina Sanchez Rojas* Franco Sanchez-Salazar Devon Lee Sanford Alejandra Lopez Santiago Megan Sabrina Santiago Hernandez Jessica Santiago Sanchez

William Garland Lockwood* Lidia Odalis Lopez^* Kevin Louis Lukose^* Sydney Arielle Luzier^* Jessica Alicia Madera^* Daniela Anna Mancuso* Leticia Mandujano* Katya Marlowe^* Jonathan Everett Martin^* Zachary Edward Martin Kelvin Biji Mathew^* Alicia Marie Kinner* Morgan Arielle Mathis* Katherine Elizabeth Matthews^* Christina Allison Maynard^* Levi James Mayo* Amor Thomas Mc Namee Jr. Scott Thomas McDonough Bailie Marrie McEntire* Laura Anne McKnight^* Brooke Amber McLaughlin^* Jordan Makinsey Meredith* Taylor Noel Mitchell^* Marisa Leigh Montanez^ Tyler James Moore* Kaitlin Gaonuci Moua^* Deepthi Ratakonda Naidu^* Sydney Denise Nelson^* Thuy Tran Minh Nguyen* Cody Alexander Nulph^* Kaylee Anne Overstreet^* Matthew Ryan Panepinto^* Tyler Keith Parke* Deep L. Patel^* Cameron Dean Patisaul* Megan Lindsey Pease* Pablo Adrian Penaherrera^* Josie Lyn Pepper* Tanner Alan Perkins* Ian S. Phillips^ Dwight Michael Pickens Jr.* Meghan Taylor Pommier^* Carissa Marie Porter Katherine Anne Pryde^* Sergio Devin Quijano* Eduardo Ramirez-Cruz Lizeth Ramirez-Martinez* Larissa Morgan Randall^* Brittany Nicole Randles^* Desiree Marie Rangel Tristen Edward Ray^ Megan Elizabeth Reed* Malissa Suzette Reta^ Ayana Ariel Richardson* Jennifer Lynn Roach*

DETAILS Commencement: 4:30 p.m. June 4, Florida State Fairgrounds Exposition Hall Principal: David Brown IB Valedictorian: Vishnu Kulkarni IB Salutatorian: Kevin Lukose Traditional Valedictorian: Mikayla Jo Townsend Traditional Salutatorian: Leticia Mandujano Lydia Santibañez* Chaz Allan Schrimsher Tyrell Deyon Schuler Samantha LeeAnn Schulte Travis James Searfoss Colton Everhett Seegar Courtney Morgan Serneels Dakota Sebastian Sherhag Kristian Mikael Sidwell Kenneth Austin Sikes Brooke Nicole Simone* Samantha Nichole Singletary Jolynn Frances Smith Jordan Andrew Smith Kevin Andrew Smith Darlene Nicole Sprague Dorian St. Hilaire Heidi Amelia Stoneburg Morgan Ray Stout Ashley Michelle Strickland Kyle William Sullivan Jenna Shay Taylor Willie Kao Thao Desiree Marie Lynn Thompson Amber Michelle Todd Michael Christopher Tolliver Amy Ruby Torres* Edgar Trejo Andrea Regina Trevino Dominick Juwan Trigg Ayram Valdez* Priscilla Vang William Francis Von Glahn II* Kirsten Elizabeth Wainoris Brandon Joseph Walker Micah David Webb* Devonne Alexander Wilcox Sydney Amber Wilder Summer Nichole Willey Tyler Roy Williams Analiesa Lea Wilson Austin Reno Wilson Cearra Arcil Woodside Desiree Anna Wurtsmith *: National Honor Society ^: International Baccalaureate

The students tried hard to find their family members in the crowd.

Madison Ashley Roberts^ Maria Guadalupe Rojo^* Angie Alexandra Yuman Romero* Sarah Elizabeth Rowley^* James Vincent Russo^* Brett Gerard Samuel II^ Jose Abilio Sanchez-Flores Rosalva Santiago* Yuridia Santiago Hernandez* Juan Rafael Santillan^* Alexa Victoria Schelb* Zachary Ryan Schlueb^* Jordan James SchrockMazzucca^* Teresa Antosh Sellos^* Jordyn Nicole Shoemaker* Bryan William Shover Jamie Elizabeth Sierra^* Cacey Lynn Simmons* Madison Rose Singletary* Isaiah Kabari Smallwood^* Christopher Lee Smith* Jordan Alexander Smith^* Megan Nicole Snyder* Natalie Ann Stahr^* Cody Ryan Stephens* Monica Marie Suarez^* Gabrielle Rosleen Sullivan* Kaitlyn Anne Sullivent* Kayla Eileen Symonds^* Mihaly Mike Szalteleki III^* Calista Raven Taylor* Chauncy Ray Thomas^* Donovan Lucas Todd^* Aaron James Torbert ^ Mikayla Jo Townsend* Samantha Sue Tyler* Edward Unger Pheona Jasmine Vang* Ester Velasco* Gabrielle Villalba* Shelby Lauren Waldron^* Zachary William Weber^ Olivia Jane Wederbrand^* Jenna Nicole Weir^* Harold Benjamin Welch IV Kasey Jean Wells* Savannah Leigh Wheeler* Serena Diane White^* Emily Ann Williams* Matthew Cole Wisecarver* Brandon Michael Wolfram* Emma Gabrielle Youmans* Nicholas Michael Young^* Idines Zuluaga*

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

OBSERVEROBITUARIES Betty Lou Forbes Booth

Betty Lou Forbes Booth, 81, of Plant City, died June 9, 2014.

Born Oct. 2, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Richard and Clara Chistian Booth.

Survivors include a son, Tim Forbes (Penny); daughters, Sheila Forbes, Brenda Hazen (Gary) and Kathy Reece; brother, Allen Booth; sister, Thelma Johnson; 13 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her ex-husband, Herbert Forbes.

A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, June 13, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m.

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

Condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Bennie F. “Papa” Chancey

Bennie F. “Papa” Chancey, 91, of Plant City, died June 1, 2014.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Margaret; daughters, Pat Hunzeker and Beverly Cochran; siblings, Ashley Chancey, Ruby Ham and Peggy

Caginia; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many loving family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sons, Bennie Wayne Chancey and Kenneth Chancey; and six siblings.

A memorial service took place June 7, at Hopewell Funeral Home, Plant City.

Memorial contributions may be made to LifePath Hospice, 12470 Telecom Drive, Suite 300, Temple Terrace, FL 33637.

Condolences may be made at WeCare.io.

Katherine L. Lewis

Katherine L. Lewis, 68, died May 31, 2014.

She was a longtime resident of Dover and worked for more than 30 years at R & H Service, in Seffner.

She will be greatly missed by many.

Funeral services took place June 7, at Wells Memorial Funeral Home, Plant City; burial at Sunset Memory Gardens.

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

Diana Lynn Lott

Diana Lynn Lott, 48, of Plant City, died June 3, 2014, at South Florida Baptist Hospital, in Plant City.

Born Sept. 13, 1965 in Tampa, she was the daughter of Bryan and Shirley Grimes Lott.

Also surviving is her twin sister, Darla.

She was a member of Plant City Church of God and a 1983 graduate of Plant City High School. She majored in intercultural studies at Lee University, and was a customer service manager/trainer at Continental Airlines and a candy-striper at South Florida Baptist Hospital.

She was also active with the Muscular Dystrophy Association — raising funds and participating in the Muscle Walk.

She loved to travel and went on many mission trips with STEP. She also went to the World’s Fair in 1988, in Brisbane, Australia.

She was loved and will be missed by all those who knew her.

A funeral service took place June 6, at Plant City Church of God, Plant City.

Donation may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Marta Mejia

Marta Mejia, 50 of Plant City, died June 4, 2014, at Sun City Center Hospice House.

Born Oct. 12, 1963 in San Salvador, El Salvador, she was the

daughter of the late Jose Perez and Sebastiana Mejia, who survives.

She also is survived by her beloved husband, Eliverio Mejia; sons, Erick Mejia and Edwin Mejia; daughter, Cynthia Mejia; brothers, Jorge Perez and Rafael Ernesto Perez; and sister, Anna Mercedes Perez.

A Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 12, at St. Clement Catholic Church, 1104 N. Alexander St., Plant City.

Interment will be in Mt. Enon Cemetery, Plant City.

Condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Sara Loretta Sawyer

Sara Loretta Sawyer, 70, of Plant City and Branford, died June 2, 2014, at Shands at UF. Born Oct. 8, 1943, in Plant City, she was the daughter of the late Tamage and Exie Taylor Howard. She was the wife of the late Milo Sawyer.

She was predeceased by two sons, Kenny and Danny Sawyer.

Survivors include sons, Doug Sawyer (Susan) and Eddie Sawyer (Cindy); daughters, Tina Sawyer and Cathy Sawyer; brother, John Howard; sisters, Betty Sue Sapp, Valerie Howard and Lori Howard; 20 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service took place June 5, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, Plant City.

Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome. com.

Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Plant City’s Mallory Ness places second in Pitch, Hit and Run competition. 12 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.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS

+ Plant City collects medals The official results from the Special Olympics State Games have been released, and the Plant City teams all fared.

Track-and-field athletes were the only ones who won gold medals, but those nine athletes earned five of them — along with four silvers and three bronzes. Also, the Unified 4x100 relay team won silver.

The two Unified volleyball teams each took home silver medals for their efforts, and both Unified soccer teams earned bronze medals.

Finally, in Bocce, Josh McAlpine turned in a topthree performance and left with a bronze medal around his neck.

Coming up next are the Special Olympics National Games, in New Jersey, and these Plant City athletes will represent Florida in basketball: Javaras Stevenson, Nathan Jones, Justin Bulgreen, Bud O’Callaghan, Jacob Goad, Jacari Stevenson, Maurice Eston and Jacob Dube.

After a big send-off June 13, in Orlando, the team will fly out on Saturday, June 14.

KARATE

+ Chris Welbon hosts summer camp The most fun kids will have learning karate will probably be this summer, at Chris Welbon’s annual Summer Karate Camp.

The five-day camp, which runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

June 16 to 20, is open to anyone age 4 to 12. It incorporates basic karate training, skills and drills, stranger defense and bully defense, but also includes squirt gun games, a pizza party, a huge water slide, a bowling trip and the ever-popular Battlefield! Swords game.

In total, there will be two camps this year: The other is scheduled for July 14 to 18. But, anyone who wants to register for June needs to hurry: The deadline to register is June 13.

The cost is $150 for each week, which covers the camp, the T-shirt and the bowling field trip. A $50 deposit will guarantee your child a spot, if it is available.

Discounts are available for siblings, and for anyone who wants to register for both weeks.

To reserve a spot, call Chris Welbon Karate, (813) 752-9800, or register in person at the club, 602 S. Collins St. For more information, visit PlantCityKarate. com.

THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2014

soccer by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Omar Castro returns to Plant City Plant City native Omar Castro, who plays professional soccer in Germany, came home this week to host a soccer camp and do everything he can’t do overseas.

If you live near Springhead Park, then you’ve probably heard the sound of a swarm of 40 children playing soccer all week. Some are involved with the new FC Plant City, and some are just there on their own volition.

In the middle of the group of kids is Omar Castro, who normally would be playing in Germany with people one to five years his senior. But, he wanted to spend his first week back in the United States helping the kids get better.

“I just wanted to come back and give back to the club that has helped me,” Castro says.

With his three-week vacation, Castro returned to the

Winter Strawberry Capital of the World to see his family and enjoy all of the American comforts that many take for granted. Life in Germany, while manageable, is quite different.

Although Castro signed a three-year deal with Bundesliga club Eintracht Braunschweig in February, he had been overseas since the fall of 2013.

While playing for an Eintrachtaffiliated youth team (he could not sign a professional contract until he turned 18), Castro began to adjust to German culture.

Although native Englishspeakers won’t have a difficult time communicating while visiting Germany, it’s a different

story for those who live there.

“Many young Germans speak English,” Castro says. “But, the older ones — they don’t really speak English. Most don’t like to speak it, because they don’t like to make mistakes. Some try, but they get embarrassed when they make a mistake.”

To ease the transition, Castro studies German for 90 minutes each day during a typical week.

In addition to his German studies, Castro also is finishing up his final year in Florida Virtual School.

As a big fan of Mexican food, Castro was a little disappointed when he tried Germany’s take

SEE CASTRO / PAGE 12

karate by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

KEEPING IT OLD SCHOOL Rudy Rogers cuts no corners. He’s a self-professed “old-school” karate instructor operating out of his home.

His students are few — but devoted.

It’s 1 p.m. on a particularly hot Friday, and two men are squaring off in a patch of dirt in a side yard.

One man is 68 years old; the other is more than 20 years his junior. People take notice: some within five feet of the dirt, others watching from their front porch, and one man hanging over the back yard fence.

The younger man throws a punch to the head, but it’s intercepted immediately by a blur of open hands.

In an instant, Sensei Rudy Rogers is describing the seven different ways in which he can now injure his attacker.

This is standard procedure: Rogers runs his own Nisei karate school at his home, and virtually all of the physical training is done in his yard.

“I train outside, because that’s the way I learned,” Rogers says. “I keep it old-school. Classical. Authentic.”

It’s how Rogers spends his retirement. He returned in 1999, to Plant City, after many years in Colorado and California. He wouldn’t have it any other way.

Although Rogers first began studying martial arts in high school, he wasn’t too serious about it. He was also a talented athlete, so he focused more on those abilities to get to college.

It was at that time that he stopped practicing altogether.

But, the karate bug returned to him in 1976. He recently completed his duties in the U.S. Navy and was living in Denver, Colo.

He began training in three-system gung-fu with Warren Cecil Daniel, a student of Los Angeles-based Grandmaster Willie Williams. Two years later,

SEE ROGERS / PAGE 14

Watching him move, it’s hard to believe Rudy Rogers is 68 years old.

Justin Kline

Plant City’s Omar Castro signed a three-year contract with Eintracht Braunschweig earlier this year.

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

The best Chuck Norris story I’ve ever heard Let me start off with this: I am a longtime fan of kung-fu movies, and Rudy Rogers has to be one of my favorite interviews ever.

More than halfway into our conversation, we branched off-topic to talk about Hollywood stars that Rogers had either met, trained with or heard about during his time in Los Angeles. It was fascinating to hear tidbits about stars whose movies I grew up watching. Bruce Lee was JUSTIN very good at what KLINE he did but actually learned some of his technique from Chuck Norris. Steven Seagal, on the other hand, was perhaps a little more glorified on the silver screen than in reality.

But, it was Rogers’s stories about Norris — best-known as “Walker, Texas Ranger” — that captivated me so much that I forgot to ask about one of my all-time favorites, Jim Kelly.

Rogers knew Norris personally, often going to the star’s gym in Thousand Oaks. “Chuck Baby,” as Rogers and others called him, allowed his gym to become a Tuesday hot spot for every martial artist in the area — but, not how you would expect.

“Every Tuesday night, we would go there for what we called ‘Open Mat Forum,’” Rogers says. “You’d go there, and you’d do it like pickup basketball: If you win, you’d stay on the court.

So, we would go there and fight. If you win, you’d stay on the mat. We don’t know who we’re going to fight.

“Everybody that was anybody used to go to Chuck’s school on Tuesday nights and do it,” he says. “After we’d do that, we would get buckets of chicken, eat chicken and hot peppers and drink beer. That’s how we used to do it, back in the day.”

Pickup karate! I don’t know if anyone actually does that anymore, but it sounds completely awesome. But, wait!

There’s more:

SEE KLINE / PAGE 14

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

CASTRO / PAGE 11 on the cuisine. While traditional German foods such as bratwurst are fine with him — as well as the country’s affinity for quiche and other French foods — eating some authentic Mexican food was high on his vacation bucket list.

“They have some Mexican restaurants, but it’s nothing like home,” he says.

While no one under 21 can enter most American bars, 18-year-old Germans are allowed to go anywhere. Castro says that part of German culture is one of the biggest contrasts to American life, but he missed the beaches more than anything. Germany is mostly landlocked.

The biggest thing for Castro, of course, was the country’s attitude toward his sport. Right from the start, he knew the only similarity between playing in Germany and playing in America is the feeling he gets when stepping onto the pitch.

“At first, I was a bit homesick,” he says. “But, once I stepped onto the field, everything just became normal. I became calm. Everything was going good. When I noticed I’d be here for a year, I said, ‘You know what? Let’s make these three years worth it.’ I wanted to work hard and see how far I could move on.”

Once he turned 18, he was

eligible to sign that deal and move on to what can best be considered soccer’s version of Minor League Baseball. Playing the midfield for Eintracht’s U19 squad, Castro was part of a team that went from nearworst to first, winning the league championship. After that, he was bumped up to the U23 league — where it looks like he’ll spend much of the next season — for a few matches.

“Some of the players have already played professionally,” Castro says. “U23 is very competitive. If you’re not doing good, they will get onto you and say, ‘Hey, come on. You need to step it up.’ That’s another big difference. Back here, I would just do my thing. I still trained hard, but not like we do over there.”

Eintracht’s head coach, who spoke recently with Castro’s agent, hopes he will progress enough to make the first team within 18 months.

For now, though, Castro’s just happy to be home. He was so excited to work with the kids that he completely changed the plans for his Challenge Camp. Instead of hosting a formal, $125 camp at Otis M. Andrews Park, he chose to move to Springhead Park and waive the fee, so anyone could come out and learn a thing or two — and have fun doing it.

Aside from working with the

OMAR ON THE WORLD CUP

It’s officially time for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and everyone with a pulse and even a marginal interest in soccer is talking about it. Although many seem to agree that the Cup is Brazil’s to lose, picking the top four teams is a lot more difficult.

Omar Castro shared his predictions for the top four with the Plant City Times & Observer: “I’d say Brazil wins; they’re on home soil,” he says. “I think Germany has many good, young players — they’re up there, too. I’ve watched some of them play.

“Spain’s another one; and the next one — maybe Argentina,” he said. “I don’t want Brazil to win — I’d want Spain to win again.

But, I also want Lionel Messi (of Argentina) to win a World Cup.” kids and maybe playing some pick-up games, he’s excited to put the pro game in the rearview for the time being and act like a kid again.

“I wanted to give back, give some advice to the kids, and make them have fun,” he says.

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

MALLORY NESS Although the Tampa Bay Rays haven’t been doing so well at Tropicana Field lately, it was a different story on Sunday at the Pitch, Hit and Run competition. Plant City’s lone representative, Mallory Ness, turned in a great performance and placed second overall in the age 7 to 8 group.

What was your favorite part about the competition?

It was really fun to go out on the field and get on the Jumbotron.

They showed all of the girls in the age groups.

How good was your competition?

They were really good. One girl hit it really far, and they pitched really good.

What’s your best event?

I’d say running or hitting. But, my favorite is hitting.

You play softball for Plant City Little League, correct?

Yes, for Midway Farms. I play mostly first base. Sometimes, I play pitcher and shortstop. We did really good — we won the city championship this season.

What was your favorite memory from this season?

I ended the championship game by catching a pop fly.

Do you play any other sports?

I played basketball and cheerleading, but softball is No. 1.

What else do you like to do for fun with your friends?

I like to play catch out in the yard and practice. I also like to play kickball games.

What’s your favorite food?

My favorite food ... I like apples.

What’s your favorite movie?

I like “Frozen.”

Favorite TV show?

Disney’s “Suite Life on Deck.”

Favorite book?

I like the “Gollywhopper Games.” It’s about this kid, he has to compete in a competition in a toy and candy factory.

Friday was your last day of school, and summer vacation just started. Do you have any big plans?

We’re going to Washington, D.C., in about a month. We’re going to visit some places, like the Washington Monument. We’re going to do a lot of stuff.

What are your favorite sports teams?

I like the Rays and the St. Louis Cardinals. I like the Cardinals, because we’ve been there (to St. Louis) a few times, and they’re good.

Who are your favorite athletes?

I like Evan Longoria on the Rays. He can hit really good.

When you get older, do you see yourself playing softball?

Yeah. I’m not sure where, but I want to go somewhere and play softball a lot.

ª

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

FOOTBALL FEVER by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Durant kicks off summer football camp Durant High School’s practice field was alive with action June 9, with the start of the fourth annual Mike Gottman Youth Football Camp.

Throughout the weeklong camp, the 50 campers will learn offense, defense and special teams from Durant coach Mike Gottman and the rest of the Durant Cougars’ coaching staff.

One-on-one sprint drills sparked some friendly competition.

Some drills were as simple as tossing around the ol’ pigskin.

Left: Quarterbacks were taught to fine-tune their throwing mechanics.

Running backs had to be able to step over obstacles at a high speed.

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

ROGERS / PAGE 11 he relocated to Riverside, Calif., to coach basketball — and to also be closer to L.A., where he trained with Williams himself.

“I took that job as close to L.A. as I could get, because California is a hotbed for martial arts,” Rogers says. “Everybody does it out there; everywhere you go.”

Thanks in part to the emergence of kung-fu movies in the pop culture lexicon, L.A. was the place to be for anyone that wanted to gain exposure.

Bruce Lee’s movies inspired many to train, and Chuck Norris even owned and operated a school — which Rogers frequented.

While studying under Williams, Rogers began fighting on the professional circuit — open only to black belts — and made stops around the country. Rogers enjoyed success, and in 1980, Inside Kung-Fu Magazine ranked him at No. 9 in America in the Heavyweight division.

He also began training his own students, which continued even after he returned to Colorado. Although some prominent California martial artists, including Norris, had altered their original styles, Rogers stuck with his style of goju gung fu — which emphasizes the Tiger and Horse styles. He remained in Colorado until nearly 15 years ago, when he returned to the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World out of necessity.

“I’ve been here since Aug. 11, 1999, at this location,” Rogers says. “That was by way of Colorado. My legal adopted mother got sick in 1998 — Sadye Gibbs Martin. I came back.”

He’s been at the same house ever since. Now, in his retirement, he typically travels when his students will participate in a tournament. It gives him plenty of time to run his school, which is necessary: Training with Rogers is not for the faint of heart.

While many martial arts schools designate rank and skill with many different belts, Rogers keeps it simpler than that. He uses a four-belt system before giving out a black belt, and the meaning behind those belts is much more obtuse.

“These belts show what (the

KLINE / PAGE 11 “And, we used to develop kicks,” Rogers says. “The way we developed kicks was to the point that it’s like playing ‘HORSE.’ If I make a shot, you’ve got to make that exact same shot. Once you spell, ‘HORSE,’ you’re out. We used to do it with kicks, and we would spell out ‘KICK.’ If he makes a butterfly kick, and I miss it, I get a ‘K.’ If he does another kick and I miss that, I get an ‘I.’” If Rogers himself hadn’t told

students) have done, but it doesn’t dictate who they are,” Rogers says. “Those belts are only good to hold up their pants and support their backs.

Can you apply the technique to the man? You have to be able to apply the technique to the man.”

Although he acknowledges that learning martial arts is good for children, Rogers won’t teach any. He prefers to work with adults. They’re more likely to successfully defend themselves when attacked by another adult — as long as they know what they’re doing.

But, his instruction goes deeper than practicing moves and running drills in the side yard.

“I teach my people the language,” Rogers says. “I teach them the culture. I tell them, ‘Don’t take my word; research it.’ When I give a test, I give written tests. They have to show me the techniques and what they do. ... Forty percent of their test is done here; the other 60% comes from their kumite, which is sparring against someone else.”

His students are graded on their tournament performances, rather than in sparring sessions with one another. Being able to beat an unfamiliar opponent is the key, because it’s as close as one can get to handling an attacker in the street.

Rogers often stresses that people must be ready for anything in these “perilous times.” That also means being able to fight on any surface, in any event — hence the outdoor training.

“No one is going to attack you on a smooth surface in an air-conditioned building,” he says. “They’re going to attack you in a hole or walking down the street. So, if you’re not used to that terrain, guess what happens to you?

“My people, they train out here on these roots,” Rogers says, “I tell them, ‘Your feet are supposed to have eyes.’ You don’t look down; you let your feet guide you. When my people get on a smooth surface, it’s like heaven for them.”

His devotion to the art is visible in everything he does, and that’s what keeps his students — his “sons” — devoted to him.

“It’s great, studying with him,” Chris Jones says. “He can really get onto us sometimes, but it’s because he’s passionate. If he wasn’t so passionate about what he does, I wouldn’t keep doing this.”

Along with Jones, Rogers has two students in the U.S. Army who train with him whenever they are in town. Another student, Walter Wright, trains with Rogers even after he suffered two strokes.

But, maybe the most impressive thing about Rogers’ dedication is that, at 68, he moves like a much younger man and trains as hard as one. Performing his tiger kata (which his students had never seen before last week), his movements are crisp and fluid. At one point, he even lunges into a brief handstand before whipping around with a palm thrust and balancing on one leg. At no point does he look like a senior citizen.

“I’m 68 years old now,” Rogers says. “You think about people (who are) almost 70. I’m almost 70, bro — they can’t do what I do. It’s the discipline.”

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobser ver. com.

me about this — if I had heard it pitched as an idea by someone else — then I wouldn’t have believed it. It does kind of sound like a plot device for a movie that Jean-Claude Van Damme would have starred in: American guy (with a unique accent) enters a series of pickup karate tournaments to pay off a mob debt, win back his love interest and, because it’s a Van Damme movie, find an excuse to do his famous split in front of a large crowd. This movie would have made a few million dollars in the 1980s.

I do, however, believe Rogers’s version is better, because it actually happened. As he puts it, people from all sorts of schools were way friendlier to each other back then, which is how pickup karate was considered widely acceptable. These days, you’d be hard-pressed to find people whose butts you can kick during the afternoon and have drinks with in the evening.

“That was what it was about, back in the day,” Rogers says.

“More camaraderie, more love.”

EARNING THE NAME

Everyone in Rudy Rogers’ school is given a nickname.

Specifically, a “karate name.” It’s never random: each moniker is carefully considered before it is given.

The three students who are not serving in the U.S. Army were on hand for the interview, and they were willing to talk about their names.

Walter Wright, known as “Bishop,” is the only one whose name didn’t come from the art. He actually is a bishop. Rogers and the other students call him “Bish,” for short.

Chris Jones came to be known as “Mongoose” because, in his words, “Mongooses kill snakes.”

It’s a way of thinking that helps define his approach to karate.

Will Brimmer is called “Hurricane” for his form.

The black belt of the group, Brimmer uses his athleticism to his advantage and has no problem performing high-flying advanced-technique moves.

ª

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª

PLANT CITY

RAIN

(INCHES)

WEATHER

WED.

June 4

0.00

THURS.

TEMPERATURES

June 5

0.00

FRI.

0.00

SAT.

June 7

0.00

SUN.

0.02

MON.

June 9

0.00

TUES.

June 10

0.07

JUNE

TO DATE

.12 (2013: 3.25)

YEAR

TO DATE 7.31 (2013: 12.35)

HIGH 84 89 87 91 92 92 93

Thurs., June 12 Fri., June 13 Sat., May 14 Sun., June 15 Mon., June 16 Tues., June 17 Wed., June 18

June 6

June 8

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES Thurs., June 12 Fri., June 13 Sat., June 14 Sun., June 15 Mon., June 16 Tues., June 17 Wed., June 18

SUNRISE 6:32 a.m.

6:32 a.m.

6:32 a.m.

6:32 a.m.

6:32 a.m.

6:32 a.m.

6:32 a.m.

SUNSET 8:25 p.m.

8:25 p.m.

8:26 p.m.

8:26 p.m.

8:26 p.m.

8:27 p.m.

8:27 p.m.

LOW 71 71 71 71 72 72 73

MOON PHASES

June 12

, 3&

June 19

GRAPE TOMATO PRICES SHIPPING POINT: CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA PACKAGES 20-pound cartons loose 12 1-pint containers

LOW $27.95 $14.95

HIGH $29.95 $16.95

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

May 28

June 5

Astrid Manzano submitted this photo of these beautiful rows of corn growing at Fancy Farms.

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.

MAKING CONNECTIONS

By Dennis E. Mitchell | Edited by Timothy E. Parker

ACROSS 1 Trattoria courses 7 Large blood vessel 12 Diners who use shakers 19 Feeling shock 20 Become extinct 21 Stock character in French pantomime 22 Small, irregular amounts 24 Apprehensive state 25 Maple fluid 26 Opera solo 27 Visualizes 29 Ascot, e.g.

30 “Ciao for now!”

32 Parcel of land 34 Thin pancake 38 Tom and Diane 41 Prepare the salad 43 Angelic light 45 Farmer’s field 46 Cornered, as a cat 47 “Caught you!”

48 Leaving helpless 50 Brook 51 Tariff target 55 Qatar bigwig 56 Residents of Martha’s Vineyard, e.g.

58 Put up a building 59 Poker player’s ploy 60 Reese and Herman 61 Lewis Carroll creature 62 Brought into the world 63 Type of table or zone 64 Leave, as in a will 67 Present as a gift 69 Disturbance 72 River to the Caspian Sea 74 First people of Manitoba 76 Qualified voter 78 Iron-on picture 80 Conjurers 81 Drawing medium

83 84 86 87 89 90 91 92 93 95 97 99 101 103 105 106 107 110 114 118 119 120 121 122 123

It comes before a fall?

Big retail store divisions Book manufacturer’s leather Baseball strategy More than displeasure Richard of “The Godfather” Zamboni’s surface “___ be a pleasure!” “___ Ha’i” Strong, sweet wine Filled, as a ship’s hold Artist’s prop Diving apparatuses Hamster healer Male descendants Type of lens React to a bad performance Annoy incessantly Repeatedly Streamers and flags Green Bay athlete Make it possible for Went down, PC-style Winter fall Put emphasis on

DOWN 1 Goalie’s protection 2 Home of the Taj Mahal 3 Liner or tanker 4 Restaurant pickup 5 Examined, as ore 6 Curious one 7 Assistance 8 “The Star-Spangled Banner” preposition 9 Insulting but loving tributes 10 Potatoes and yams 11 Not docked 12 Where to take a mud bath

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

13 14 15 16 17 18 20 23 28 30 31 33 35 36 37 38 39 40 42 44 47 48 49 51 52 53 54 57 59 61 62 65 66 68 70 71 73

“You ___ seen nothin’ yet!”

Specialized vocabulary list Judge or juror Palindromist’s preposition Decay Home for a hog Time of reckoning Pen tips Signature comedy routines Local rule or regulation (var.)

Community spirit Fortuneteller’s card Some tournament results “The ___ mightier than the sword” Kin of a tsunami Mark on a bass Ready for the day Like Harvard grads Paddle kin PC linkup letters Busy month for the IRS 35.3 cubic feet Start of a diary entry Model of excellence Sticky situation Toe quota Many Muslims Katmandu’s country Second crop of grass or hay in a season Disrespectful expression Gaucho’s weapons Shoulder blade bones Ballpark instrument Oxygen container Give to charity ___ Islands (Scapa Flow locale) Pro ___ (in proportion)

© 2013 Universal Uclick

75 77 78 79 80 81 82 84 85 88

Suffix with “high” or “low” Some software backups Oxford doctorate, briefly Susan Lucci character Haggard singer?

Persian fairies Opposite of WSW Banned bug killer Thousandth of an inch Ancient Assyrian capital

90 93 94

Offensively loud Cincinnati gridder ___-Lorraine (French region) 95 Unstable subatomic particle 96 Humble homes 98 They’re at odds with odds 100 Daytime serials 102 Mogul 104 Become weary

107 108 109 110 111 112 113 115 116 117

Pig on the silver screen Makes less squeaky Vending machine inserts English broadcaster Where to find a hammer or anvil Trial evidence, sometimes “Acid” used in some trips Well-liked president?

After deductions Fish with a long snout

C RY P T O G R A M S 1 . D H Q - U H X Y Z J S Y K Z E C N Y K I G C M DY Z L J M N , B R K U H AY C M F F Y G Y Z U H AY, D R U B K C M S E N , D E R B B H M Q H I Z C K U J B U LY Q C X Y.

2 . V B I I Z Q V E B V H A M U R R I E R I Q A W F G E D V Z H U NA . E I Q V D DA K M I P Q G N M S I G T G R M D M A A E H A F I TA U D P U F F WA R D V D U I E A K S .

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*5.%ª ª