06.19.14 Plant City Times & Observer

Plant City Times &

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

A PARTNERSHIP WITH

SPOTLIGHT

Chamber shows off how it rolls at bowling tourney.

PAGE 3

OUR TOWN

+ Who has the cutest critter?

Who has the most adorable pet in Plant City?

The Plant City Times & Observer and Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center have partnered to present our Cutest Critter Contest!

Entering is simple: Just submit a high-resolution photo (200 dpi or better) and a sentence or two about why your pet is the cutest.

Include your name and contact information.

Photos will be showcased monthly in the Plant City Times & Observer, and winners also will receive a prize from the hospital.

Submit your entries to Editor Michael Eng, meng@ plantcityobserver.com; subject line: Cutest Critter Contest. Good luck!

FREE • THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

SPORTS

SPECIAL SECTION INSIDE

SUMMER BUCKET LIST

Plant City Little League All-Stars ready to play.

PAGES 12-14

end of the road by Michael Eng, Dan Sullivan and Victoria Jacobsen

Doomsday prepper Martin Winters surrenders peacefully The 55-year-old Valrico man turned himself in to the FBI June 18.

He led authorities on a two-day manhunt that began in Plant City.

With soiled shoes and soaked socks, the man who led federal agents on a twoday manhunt that stretched from Plant City to Valrico surrendered himself to the FBI Wednesday, June 18.

FBI officials believe Martin Winters, 55, spent the past days in woods near his Valrico home. He arrived at the FBI dehydrated and hungry, accompanied by two attorneys and a family member.

“He peacefully surrendered. ... He was very cooperative the entire time,” said FBI spokesman David Couvertier. “His shoes and his socks were soaked, and one of our agents had a pair of sneakers and fresh

pair of socks ... so he gave those over to Mr. Winters.”

Couvertier also said Martin was given cheeseburgers, Gatorade and water.

“He seemed to be doing fairly well under the conditions,”

Put me in summer, and I’ll be a …

Leiah Kitchel, 3, had a blast in this bounce house at Plant City’s Summer Kick Off party.

Happy Snowman!

+ P.C. native now a dentist Rodney Mackey Sr. and Valerie Mackey are proud to announce the graduation of their daughter, Dr. DeShaydia (Shay) Mackey, from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry. Shay is a graduate of Durant High School and basketball standout, where she earned MVP honors for four years and received an academic scholarship to The University of Tampa.

Couvertier said. “Mr. Winters, in this situation, did the right thing. ... We were hoping for a

SEE WINTERS / PAGE 4

new-car smell

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Attendance unlocks new car for Crest grad Jose Sanchez-Flores’ record qualified him to draw a key at the fourth Toyota of Tampa Bay New Car Giveaway.

+ Wells wreaths a P.C. success Wells Memorial and Event Center’s Memorial Day Wreath Project raised $260 for Plant City American Legion Post 26.

The funeral home sold 16-inch wreaths and donated half the money raised to the post. The wreaths were displayed on the lawn outside the funeral home during Memorial Day weekend.

“Thanks to the Plant City response to our project — Plant City helping Plant City,” says Wells Manager Verna McKelvin.

Courtesy photo

Martin Winters was cooperative with FBI agents.

Plant City families celebrated the end of the school year with the community’s first Summer Kick Off party June 6, in Midtown.

In addition to a screening of Disney’s “Frozen,” the event featured carnival-style games, inflatable bounce houses, appearances by the Durant High School Leos Club clowns, face painting, laser tag and more.

Plant City Lions Club Tail Twister David Vick and Leos Club alumna Ashley Webb created all kinds of balloon animals for the kids.

For Jose Sanchez-Flores, showing up to school every day for three years got him more than just good grades.

The Strawberry Crest High School graduate won a brand new 2014 Scion XB car June 14, when he drew the winning car key during the fourth annual Toyota of Tampa Bay New Car Giveaway.

The giveaway included more than 350 recent graduates who attended school each day of either the first or second semester of their senior year. Twelve graduates’ names were drawn from a fish bowl, giving them an opportunity to choose a key and try it in the car lock.

“It’s amazing my key opened the car,” Sanchez-Flores said.

“I was at least lucky enough to be drawn. I couldn’t believe it.”

Even though this is the 19-year-old’s first car, he’s only driven it three times so far.

He immigrated in 2009, to the United States from San Salvador, after his parents and two brothers died in a car acci-

SEE CAR / PAGE 5

LET IT GO by Michael Eng | Editor

These boys were ready for battle in the laser tag arena.

written word by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Festival to commemorate anniversary with book The book’s content will feature info and photos from the Florida Strawberry Festival’s archive, as well as submissions from the public.

This week’s winner is

Matt Cipriano.

See his photo on PAGE 15.

The Florida Strawberry Festival is turning 80 next year, and its leaders want the 2015 event to be one for the history books. Literally.

General Manager Paul Davis and the rest of the Florida Strawberry Festival staff currently are combing through the archives to find any pieces

of history they can, which will culminate in the publication of a history book.

“This is a project we have wanted to focus on for many

years,” Davis said. “We have such a rich history, and many of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped our beloved festival into what it is now are unknown by the general public.”

SEE FESTIVAL / PAGE 4

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

Courtesy photo

Jose Sanchez-Flores plans to enroll at HCC for two years before transferring to USF.

Vol. 1, No. 46 | One section Crossword...................15

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

Real Estate ...................8

Sports.........................12

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

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

COMMUNITYCALENDAR THURSDAY, JUNE 19 Bereaved Parents Group — meets at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 19, at the Cancer Resource Center, 1708 W. Palmetto St., Plant City. The group meets the third Thursday of each month. Janice Falcon, (813) 997-1709.

Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours — takes place from 5:15 to 7 p.m.

Thursday, June 19, at Chili’s, 3001 James L. Redman Parkway. For more, visit plantcity.org.

Child Yoga — takes place at 10:30 a.m. (toddlers) and 11 a.m. (elementary-school age) Thursday, June 19, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 7579215.

Summer Movie for Kids — takes place at 3 p.m. Thursday, June 19, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.

FRIDAY, JUNE 20 Live Entertainment — performance takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Friday, June 20, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

Nana and Pops Reading Spot — takes place from 11 a.m. to noon Friday, June 20, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St. (813) 752-8700.

Plant City Food Truck Round Up — takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, June 20, at McCall Park. Participating

trucks include Bobbo’s Tacos; The Big Cheese; Daily Grinders; America’s Disaster Relief; Der WurstWagen; Gator Country BBQ; Gone Bananas; Mobile Munchiez; Dochos Concession; Smoothin and Shaken; and LizzieCakes.

Summer Teen Movie — takes place at 4 p.m. Friday, June 20, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.

Uncork Your Weekend with Skylar Clark/Daniel Sprouse and Save the Winery Rally — live music from 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, June 20, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752-9100.

SATURDAY, JUNE 21 Durant Football Family Yard Sale — takes place from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

Mike Gottman, (813) 323-4347.

Learning with Dad — takes place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 21, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 7528700.

Marshall High School Class of 1969 — meets from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Willie Thomas, (813) 677-5210.

Strawberry Classic Car Show — takes place from 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at 102 N. Palmer St. For more, visit plantcity.org.

Triple Threat — performance takes place

BEST BET Plant City Photo Archives & History Center Screening of “The Loving Story” — screening takes place at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, June 24, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St. The screening is the third in the center’s film series, “Created Equal: America’s Civil Rights Struggle.” The documentaries include riveting new footage illustrating the history of the civil rights movement in America. “The Loving Story” chronicles Mildred and Richard Loving, who were arrested in July 1958, in Virginia, for violating a state law that banned marriage between 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.

Uncork Your Weekend with Project Voyager — live music from 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752-9100.

SUNDAY, JUNE 22 Cedar Grove Baptist Church VBS — takes place from 6:30 to 9 p.m. June 22 to 27, at the church, Cedar Grove Baptist Church, 8201 Cedar Grove Church Road, Plant City. Debbie Tickle, (813) 962-6532 or cedargrove8201@ gmail.com.

DivorceCare — Twelve-week class begins at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, June 22,

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.

people of different races.

The documentary brings to life the Lovings’ marriage and the legal battle that followed through little-known filmed interviews and photographs shot for Life magazine.

The film narrates the lives of Mildred and Richard Loving and their fight for the recognition of their marriage, all the way to the Supreme Court. This landmark ruling led to the overturnat Plant City Church of God, 2103 Mud Lake Road, Plant City. Visitdivorcecare. org, and search “Find A Group” for location, dates, times and registration. Child care is provided with reservations.

First Baptist Church of Midway 115th Homecoming Celebration — takes place at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, June 22, at the church, 2902 Midway Road, Plant City. Worship will be followed by a special dinner and fellowship. (813) 752-7209.

MONDAY, JUNE 23 Beginning Crochet — takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 23, at at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Patrons should bring a crochet hook and yarn with them. (813) 757-9215.

ing of miscegenation laws in 15 states. Dr. Maribeth Mobley, professor of humanities at Hillsborough Community College, will facilitate further discussion on the film by providing an overview of the issues brought out by the film and leading the discussion following the film. She will be joined

by Library Director Anne Haywood. For more, call the center, (813) 754-1578 or visit the website, plantcityphotoarchives.org.

Manage Your Diabetes — takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 23, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St. Glenda Williams, (813) 307-8015, Ext. 7111.

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church VBS — takes place from 9 a.m. to noon June 23 to 27; and 6 to 9 p.m. June 27, at the church’s parish hall, 302 Carey St., Plant City. (813) 752-5061.

Wonders of Nature Animal Show — takes place at 3 p.m. Monday, June 23, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St. (813) 757-9215.

TUESDAY, JUNE 24 Ribbon Cutting: Alan’s Air Conditioning — takes place at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 24, at 4504 Coronet Road. For more, visit plantcity.org.

ª

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

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

crime by Dan Sullivan and Amber Jurgensen

Investigators fear missing teen is with Plant City sex offender Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office detectives believe Ashley Lyon, 16, may be with a registered sex offender with a Plant City address.

The Hillsborough missing, there’s always County Sheriff’s Ofa concern,” said Col. fice investigators have Donna Lusczynski, issued a warrant for of the Hillsborough the Plant City man County Sheriff’s Ofthey believe is with a fice. “This is height16-year-old teenage ened, because she has girl who ran away from had contact.” her Valrico home.

Ashley’s parents, According to sher- Ashley Lyon Roger and Michelle iff’s office reports, SteLyon, spent the weekven Myers, a registered end handing out fliers sex offender who lists and talking with state a Plant City address, and national missing is wanted for several persons organizations. charges, including in“She doesn’t need terference with child to be around this guy,” custody; attempted Roger Lyon said. “He’s unlawful sexual activia sexual predator.” ty with certain minors; Ashley, who recently and traveling to meet a finished her sophoSteven Myers minor. more year at Newsome Detectives say MyHigh School, became ers exchanged thousands of acquainted with Myers in April, text messages with Ashley Lyon, her parents said, when he be16, who left her home June 11. gan hanging around the neighLyon has been diagnosed with borhood with his sons, Bryan bi-polar disorder and did not and Jason Myers. She went to take her medications with her. school with the boys and knew “Every time a child goes them well, because their house

is one street over from the culde-sac where Ashley lives.

Roger Lyon asked his daughter about the strange older man, who was known to ride skateboards with kids in the neighborhood. She downplayed Myers’ past, Roger said, noting he had been to jail and served probation.

They didn’t know Myers was twice convicted in Forsyth County, Ga., in 1998 for child molestation. Georgia state corrections records show Myers served two stints in prison for those convictions, first from 1999 to 2003, and again from 2010 to 2012.

Myers is not currently on probation but is registered as a sex offender at his Plant City address, 6801 N. Dormany Road.

He is required to register twice a year, which he has. The last time he registered was April 1 of this year. He also has to inform authorities 48 hours before he moves and is barred from being within 1,000 feet of a school,

playground and church.

Two weeks before Ashley disappeared, sheriff’s office deputies caught Myers with her and one of his sons in the cab of his truck near her home, her parents said. The deputies told Michelle Lyon that the trio was preparing to buy marijuana, Michelle said.

The deputies let Ashley go with a warning, but at home, she was grounded. On June 10, her brother saw her in her bedroom about 2:30 p.m. At 4:30 p.m., he went to tell her dinner was ready. The room was empty, the window open and the screen lying in the yard. Ashley’s parents say she was seen shortly after she disappeared, walking on Stearns Road in Valrico. They called police, who responded at about 8 p.m.

Sheriff’s officials would not provide details about the circumstances of Ashley’s disappearance, including any information about the text messages she and Myers exchanged.

One concern is that they may have crossed state lines if they are together. Myers has gone back and forth between Florida and Georgia, but sheriff’s officials would not elaborate beyond saying he has relations and ties to the state.

Ashley Lyon was last seen wearing a black tank top, black gym shorts and black Vans shoes. She is 5 feet 6 inches tall with a large build, brown eyes and black hair in a crew cut.

She and Myers may be traveling in his 1989 Ford Ranger pickup truck, which has flames painted on the front and sides.

The truck bears Florida tag CSJM45.

Myers’ bond was set at $50,000, and the warrant has a nationwide extradition.

Anyone with information regarding Ashley Lyon’s whereabouts should call the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at (813) 247-8200.

Times news researcher John Martin and staff writer Jimmy Geurts contributed to this report.

Contact Dan Sullivan at (813) 226-3386 or dsullivan@tampabay.com.

double dribble by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Scout restores hoop dreams Henry Yoho completed his Eagle Scout project by refurbishing the basketball court at First Presbyterian Church of Plant City.

Many — if not all — of the most recent Eagle Scouts waited until nearly the last minute to complete their mandatory projects. Henry Yoho, on the other hand, couldn’t wait to fix up his church’s basketball court.

So, roughly three years before his deadline, he checked that project off of his list.

The court at First Presbyterian Church of Plant City had fallen into disrepair, most recently serving as a makeshift parking lot for church events.

“It wasn’t in the greatest shape,” Yoho said. “The court was pretty dirty; you couldn’t do anything with it. It was

the question, because of high costs, so Yoho took care of everything else. Henry Yoho, his father, and the rest of Troop 5 spend about 120 man-hours May 31 fixing things up.

First, Yoho pressurewashed the entire court.

That, he said, was the hardest work. The court lines also needed a fresh coat of paint, some overhanging trees were cleared out, and the fence around the court was repaired.

The biggest fixable problems, though, were those nonexistent backboards.

Plastic ones just weren’t going to cut it: They break far too easily. Fortunately, Henry Yoho found a solution: Morrow Steel was willing to manufacture and donate the backboards, and volunteers from Mulberry-based Certified Industrial Maintenance installed them on their own time.

“It was very nice of both of those companies to do that,” Rob Yoho said.

That saved Henry Yoho about $1,000.

The church fundraiser produced $680 for Yoho to Photo by Rob Yoho work with, which Henry Yoho, 15, prepares to paint ended up coverlines on the basketball court. ing nearly all of the project’s costs. just a big cement pad that Now, the court is as good we used for parking, pretty as new. Henry Yoho said the much. There were no bas- church now will be able to kets. One of them was falling host all kinds of events out off.” there, which looks much At the beginning of the more inviting than the conyear, Yoho, a Plant City High crete parking space that was School freshman, got the idea there a month ago. And, with to fix it up for his Eagle Scout the most taxing requirement project. It also appealed to of his Eagle Scout application his personal interests as an out of the way, he can rest avid basketball fan and play- easy knowing that he accomer. With some help from his plished something for the father, Rob Yoho, he began community. drawing up the plans and or“I didn’t think it was going ganizing a church-wide fund to be as hard as it actually drive. was, but it was worthwhile,” The goal was to refurbish he said. the court in every way posContact Justin Kline at sible — within reason. Resur- jkline@plantcityobserver. facing the court was out of com.

“

“

It was just a big cement pad that we used for parking, pretty much. There were no baskets.

One of them was falling off.

— Henry Yoho

Suncoast Community Health accepted the “Best of the Worst” award.

Florida Strawberry Growers Association easily won the “Best Dressed” award.

STRIKE ZONE PIN PUSHERS

by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s best bowlers took to the lanes for the annual Bowling Tournament June 5, at Family Bowl.

Nineteen teams entered, but it was Wells Memorial and Event Center that rolled its way to victory. Awards were also given for the “Best of the Worst,” “Best Dressed,” “Best Team Score” and “Worst Team Score” categories.

BUSINESS

by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Justin Kline

Strawberry Hut is known for its Cuban sandwiches.

Strawberry Hut expands, adds new location The famous eatery not only is increasing in size next month but also is adding a second location in Polk County.

Giving someone a makeover for their birthday isn’t too uncommon. Now that the Strawberry Hut is set to turn 21 next month, its “parents” — owners Troy and Betty Wilson — are going that route.

Moreover, they are bringing another eatery into the family.

The Plant City landmark, known more for its pressed Cuban sandwiches than its dining accommodations, will begin fixing the latter in July by adding an enclosed dine-in area for guests. The renovations also will include more equipment and elbow room for the employees working in the kitchen.

Adding an indoor lobby will help boost the building’s size to roughly 1,852 square feet — tripling its current size — when complete.

After the Wilsons bought the old building, once home to a Supertest gas station and several restaurants, on July 20, 1993, they began to consider expansion for years.

This just happened to be the time to get it done, and the couple is excited to give the building a new look for the first time in 21 years.

“My son, who I was then six months pregnant with, is getting married Saturday,” Betty Wilson says. “It’s funny that he’s all grown up now — I pulled up some pictures of when we started, and he was right there with me.”

Much of the Wilsons’ time has been consumed with their other, newer venture, though: The Strawberry Hut is branching out to Lakeland, and that location is just about ready to open its doors to the public.

“We thought about it for many years,” Wilson says.

“We had a lot of customers ask us to open in other areas.

We just solidified it a couple of months ago, and it’s just kind of one of those things you run across and decide to do.”

They’ll be occupying the building on 743 E. Memorial Blvd., which used to host a Bonanza and other restaurants. The Wilsons have been traveling back and forth from Plant City, renovating the building on Memorial to open in the first week of July.

“We’ve got a lot of customers in Lakeland, people that have been asking us for one a little closer,” she says. “People drive from there, and even Orlando, all the way to Plant City. We think that they would enjoy having one a little closer.”

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver. com.

CRAVIN’ A CUBAN?

Cindy Domske, Verna McKelvin and Chris Domske went home with first-place trophies.

If the thought of Strawberry Hut’s famous pressed Cubans is making your mouth water all over the page, don’t worry: You’ll still be able to get your fill while the construction is underway.

Located at 1505 N. Wheeler St., the eatery is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

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

FESTIVAL / PAGE 1 The festival’s private archive is rather large. Photographs, documents and other pieces of memorabilia from as far back as the 1930s have been preserved there, and all of those items are expected to make up the bulk of the book’s content.

“I don’t know exactly how big it’s going to be, but I think it’s going to be a pretty lengthy book,” said festival spokeswoman Lauren Der. “We’ve had a lot of successes, changes and people over 80 years, and we want to cover as much of that as possible. Those successes, changes and people are what have made our festival so

WINTERS / PAGE 1 peaceful resolution, and, today, we got that.”

Winters is accused of building unregistered destructive devices as part of an end-oftimes plan to kill government agents. During the manhunt, FBI officials expressed worries he had stashed weapons and supplies and perhaps hunkered down in a hidden bunker.

Winters is the leader of a group known as the River Otter Preppers, according to federal court documents. The group advocates survival preparations in advance of an endtimes event foretold in the Bible’s Book of Revelation. He and five others were charged June 5 in a sealed indictment with possessing destructive devices without permission or registration, among other allegations. The indictments also name Michael Bonta, 49; Jason Swain, 33; Nicholas Hall, 23; James Beebe, 56; and Desiree Beebe, 23. They have been arrested. Bonta, like Winters, was charged with crimes related to the homemade destructive devices. The others were charged with being felons in possession of firearms and making false statements.

successful to this day.”

At the moment, no publication date is set. According to Der, it may be after this time next year.

“Whenever it is finished, they will be available for purchase,” Der said. “And, it is going to be a very nice-looking, high-quality book — almost like a coffee-table book. Something really nice that people can display in their homes.”

Maybe the most important part of the book’s development, though, will come from the people of Plant City. Der and Davis currently are seeking donations for the book, or at least looking to borrow items.

“We have held on to as much as possible,” Davis said.

“But, we know people in our community have historical newspaper articles, photographs, brochures, advertisements and other items of interest that are important to have when compiling an accurate historical record.”

Anyone who wishes to have something featured in the book should bring the item to the festival office and complete an intake form, which also can be found on the festival’s website. Items can either be donated to or scanned and returned.

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

According to authorities, federal agents approached Winters’ vehicle at about 9 a.m. June 16, on Cheryl Court, in Plant City. Winters sped away, then fled his vehicle and ran into a wooded area near Durant High School. The school was placed on immediate lockdown.

“The way it was described — there was steam coming out of the engine, so that tells you how hard he was pushing that vehicle,” Couvertier said.

The destructive devices — metal tubes designed to fire 12-gauge shotgun shells — were intended to function as booby traps, according to a 24page search warrant affidavit that lays out the government’s case.

“The media has blown this up into something that it’s really not,” Winters’ ex-wife, Lori Thomas, said. “He’s a really good person. He gives a lot to people.”

Several of his neighbors shared similar sentiments about Winters on the Plant City Times & Observer Facebook page.

“We know him. … He’s a nice guy,” said Georgia Harper Holland.

“Yes, he is a nice guy, and he feeds a lot of older people and

widows in the neighborhood,” Brenda Goodall said.

A probable cause affidavit filed in federal court sought to search several properties near Winters’ home at 3032 Williams Blvd., where he is alleged to have hidden various explosive devices and other weapons.

The document details conversations that an undercover FBI agent had with Winters in which he detailed his preparations and efforts to repel government forces during an apocalyptic event.

Last October, Winters told an FBI undercover employee that he had spent $200,000 on his preparations and that he had buried 60 AR-15 firearms in four barrels in the ground, the record states. They toured the neighborhood, and Winters pointed out bunkers that he keeps on three east Hillsborough County properties, two on Williams Boulevard and one on Spring Road.

He talked about shooting government agents in the back, first snagging them with fishhooks that would pop out of air-pressured pipes mounted on the eaves of porches.

“Winters will then shoot the agents while they are entangled in the hooks,” Special Agent

SHARING IS CARING

The Florida Strawberry Festival wants your submissions. If you have a piece of festival history you’d like to see included in the book, fill out an intake form, available at flstrawberryfestival.com, and then bring the items to the festival, 303 N. Lemon St., Plant City.

For more information, contact Lauren Der at (813) 752-9194 or by email at lauren@flstrawber ryfestival.com.

Ronald Monaco wrote in the affidavit.

An unidentified FBI employee spent months in talks with Winters and wrote that he also talked of shooting tanks of propane gas to kill government agents as they entered his property.

“Winters stated that if the government gives him enough time, it will be worse than Waco,” the affidavit reads, a reference to the deadly 1993 government siege near Waco, Texas.

Winters has no significant criminal history in Florida, records show. He owns several properties in the area near his home. He also runs several metal recycling businesses including Metals and Materials Recycling in Plant City.

Following processing with the FBI, Winters was escorted to the federal courthouse in downtown Tampa, where he was scheduled to have his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Thomas Wilson.

That appearance occurred after press time Wednesday.

Tampa Bay Times reporter Patty Ryan and news researcher John Martin contributed to this report. Contact Michael Eng at meng@plantcityobserver.com.

ª

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

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

say cheese! by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Plant City Police Department to roll with body-worn cameras The department will use funds from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program to outfit its officers with BODYCAMS. Plant City Police Department officers will have a second set of eyes soon.

The department will use funds from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program to buy bodyworn cameras for all 40 of its patrol officers.

The Plant City Commission approved June 9, the use of the $12,831 JAG grant to purchase the cameras and memory cards. The funds should be available by the end of the year.

For about $300, the selected model, BODYCAM by PRO-VISION, shoots in high definition, has night-vision capabilities and is waterproof. The department’s dashboard cameras are ag-

ing and cost $5,000 to replace.

The newer technology will help the department save in the long run.

“The BODYCAM will record everywhere the officer goes, as opposed to the dash cameras that are stationary in the officer’s vehicle,” Capt.

Jerry Stwan said. “This unit is self-contained and has no limitations as to where it can record.”

The video also can be used as evidence and will reduce false allegations on officers and make those complaints easier to investigate, Stwan said. A recent study of police wearing cameras in Rialto, Calif., showed an 88%

BY THE NUMBERS 18 The number of hours

of video the camera can record per 32 GB SD card

170 The camera’s field of view, in degrees

8 The maximum megapixel resolution of the camera’s recordings

decrease in citizen complaints against officers.

More than 400 agencies nationwide are currently using the BODYCAM brand of body camera. The BODYCAM is also being used by agencies in Australia, South Africa, Italy and South America.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.

COPS CORNER MANATEE

The following information was gathered from incident and arrest reports obtained from the Plant City Police Department.

MAY 9 THAT’S NOT NICE

800 block of East Reynolds Street. Criminal Mischief. The complainant reported that someone scratched “FU” in the paint of his 2007 vehicle.

FEW TOO MANY

4100 block of State Road 574 West. Disorderly Intoxication and Misuse of 911 Services.

Police arrested the suspect, after officers were called to the bar for a disturbance. Officers met with the suspect, who was drunk and making threats to members of the bar’s security team.

MAY 10 UNAUTHORIZED ENTRY

200 block of East Terrace Drive. Criminal Mischief. Overnight, unknown person(s) cut the security gate chain off the business gate. According to staff, nothing else was damaged or stolen from the property.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

510 block of Lindsay Anne Court. Theft. The victim stated unknown suspect(s) stole eight, solar-powered tiki torches from the back yard. The torches were valued at $160. Whoever took the torches failed to take the stands, which were still on scene. The victim said the torches are useless without the stands. It is unknown when the torches were stolen.

HE LOOKED SHIFTY

3500 block of West Baker Street. Warrant Arrest. The officer responded in reference to a suspicious person standing outside of the Family Dollar Store. The suspect had a bench warrant out of Miami-Dade County for petit theft. The suspect was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail.

BAD BOYS

300 block of North Dort Street.

Aggravated Assault. Three officers were near the recreation center when they heard a gunshot. One officer pulled up from the south and saw a white

CAR / PAGE 1 dent. His grandmother, Maria Olvera, welcomed him and his brother into her home.

“It’s a great area here,” Sanchez-Flores said. “It’s kind of the way I used to live in San Salvador. It’s really nice.”

Sanchez-Flores attended Tomlin Middle School as an eighth-grader, when he first moved in with his grandmother. Although he was going through some big changes, he vowed to do well in school.

When he hit his sophomore year, he went to every single day of school. The tradition continued.

MAY 9 GOING BALLISTIC

1100 block of East Cherry Street. Neighbor Problems.

The complainant contacted the police department after his juvenile neighbor accidentally bounced a basketball into his yard.

Officers responded and met with the complainant, who wanted the neighbor warned about coming onto his property. The complainant told the officers he would confiscate the neighbor’s ball if it bounced into his yard again. The officers told the complainant the mere presence of the neighbor’s ball on his property did not constitute a claim to the ball. The complainant was told he would be charged with theft, if he chose to steal the neighbor’s ball.

The neighbor stated this is an ongoing issue with the complainant.

According to the neighbor, the complainant is a habitual caller and calls on all the other neighbors for no reason.

Lexus speeding through the parking lot and a male running toward West Reynolds Street.

The officer caught the suspect on foot. Another officer, who was also on scene, was able to conduct a traffic stop on the Lexus. The suspect on foot was charged with aggravated assault, discharge of firearm in public over a roadway, carrying a concealed firearm, resist arrest without violence and tampering with evidence. The driver of the Lexus was charged with possession of marijuana.

TOOLS TAKEN

1320 block of East Laura Street. Residential Burglary.

Over the weekend, unknown suspect(s) broke the window of the home, went inside and stole about $200 worth of tools being used to make repairs on the home.

CRIME OF OPPORTUNITY

900 block of West Tever Street. Vehicle Burglary. Two unknown males, one wearing a red shirt, entered an unlocked black Hyundai SUV and stole a purse. The purse contained the victim’s license and credit cards.

BEER RUN

2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Shoplifting. The suspects were arrested for the theft of $76 worth of beer.

MAY 13 SMALL-TIME CROOK

2200 block of North Park Road. Retail Theft. Officers responded to this store in reference to the suspect stealing $7.58 in merchandise. When officers arrived on scene, they located the suspect leaving the parking lot. After an investigation, the suspect was arrested and transported to the Orient Road Jail.

STOLEN SHADES

800 block of West Risk Street.

Vehicle Burglary. Overnight, unknown person(s) entered an unlocked 2006 Nissan SUV and stole a pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses and a men’s leather wallet, all valued at $185, from the SUV.

BACKPACK BURGLAR

1000 block of West McLendon Street. Vehicle Burglary.

Overnight, unknown person(s) entered an unlocked 2005 Ford Mustang and stole a pink makeup bag and a kid’s backpack, all valued at $100.

MAY 12 KITCHEN NIGHTMARE EASY PICKINS 700 block of West Herring Street. Residential Burglary.

Over the weekend, unknown suspect(s) forced open a door to this house and stole $4,000 to $5,000 worth of kitchen appliances. The home is vacant and currently being managed by a management company.

600 block of Whitehall Street.

Vehicle Burglaries. Overnight, unknown suspect(s) entered an unlocked red Buick and blue Buick parked at the home. Once inside, the suspect(s) stole $76 from an envelope from one car and four sets of keys taken from the other car.

“I try to do my best to make my grandma proud of me,” Sanchez-Flores said. “She takes care of me. I just want to make her proud.”

Even sickness couldn’t stop Sanchez-Flores. He came down with an illness for two weeks and still went to school.

When he saw the sign about perfect attendance and the car giveaway, he made it a goal to keep up his record.

Sanchez-Flores plans to work for year and then attend Hillsborough Community College. He hopes to transfer to the University of South Florida after two years and plans to become a nutritionist.

“I like to be in the healthy lifestyle and be fit,” SanchezFlores said. “All the bad food people eat will do bad for your body.”

A nutritionist is his dream job, but Sanchez-Flores also treated school like a job. That’s his advice to others who will be returning to the locker-lined hallways next year.

“Take school like a job,” Sanchez-Flores said. “Right now, they’re going to school and not getting paid, but it will help them be more successful in life. It’s a responsibility.”

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

THIS WEEK’S CROSSWORD ANSWERS

CUSTOMER SERVICE by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Chamber expo spotlights businesses Businesses from Plant City and other parts of the Tampa Bay Area showed off their wares during the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s Community Expo June 11, at the Grimes Family Agricultural Center at the Florida Strawberry Festival.

More than 40 booths were on display, and guests could sample coffee, get information on political candidates and even play some fun games.

2013

THIS WEEK’S CRYPTOGRAM ANSWERS

Stephen Simon and Clay Keel brought plenty of wine from Keel and Curley Winery.

1. A tailor overheard a cap and a tie discussing the way they should proceed . The cap’s verdict: “I will go on ahead and you can hang around.”

2. A spider, a wasp and a gnat were upset by the high society talk in town. “What’s so special about the bee’s knees?” said the wasp.

PlantCityObserver.com

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

O

Lynn Connor and Leah Glover, of Tip to Toe Day Spa and Gifts

Jana Butler and Amy Glover promoted the upcoming Romp in the Swamp II mud run.

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

Left: Chris Wellman and Suzann Clark represented Acts360.com.

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.

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

sizzle and spice

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Corey Kitner loved dining at the Crawfish Boil.

Carter Stidham even dressed for the occasion.

Bill Butler and Ed Patrick worked hard to prepare the event’s star attractions.

O’Brien’s serves up N’Awlins flavors at annual Crawfish Boil O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant spiced up the weekend with its annual Crawfish Boil June 7, at the Plant City location.

The event featured live music, family fun, and, of course, piles of the famous Cajun crustaceans.

Dale Johnston was ready to enjoy some Cajun cuisine.

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

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

real estate by Michael Eng | Editor

Walden Lake home tops May transactions A home in Walden Lake was the top residential real-estate transaction in May. The home at 1904 Sweet Bay Court sold for $398,000.

Built in 1983, it has three bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,396 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $90.54.

AVONDALE GROVES

The home at 1618 Avondale Ridge Drive sold for $219,000 (short sale). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,467 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $88.77.

ALEXANDER WOODS

The townhome at 179 Alexander Woods Drive sold for $111,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,695 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $65.49.

The townhome at 187 Alexander Woods Drive sold for $98,500. Built in 2013, it has two bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,403 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $70.21.

The townhome at 227 Alexander Woods Drive sold for $98,500. Built in 2013, it has two bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,466 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $67.19.

The townhome at 269 Alexander Woods Drive sold for $89,500. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,282 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $69.81.

The townhome at 262 Alexander Woods Drive sold for $89,500. Built in 2008, it has two bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,282 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $69.81.

CITRUS LANDING

The home at 307 Citrus Landing Drive sold for $139,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,320 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $105.30.

CONNELL GROVES

The home at 5636 Connell Road sold for $104,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,800 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $57.78.

COUNTRY HILLS

The home at 4601 N. Country Hills Court sold for $137,000.

Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,819 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $75.32.

The home at 4523 Tina Lane sold for $130,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,534 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $84.75.

The home at 4702 Hunts Court sold for $91,500 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,270 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $72.05.

COUNTRY TRAILS

The home at 4601 Charro Lane sold for $198,000 (short sale). Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a pool and 1,941 square feet of living area on 1.02 acres. The price per square foot is $102.01.

DEVANE AND LOWRY

The home at 503 E. Young St. sold for $167,500. Built in 1979, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,319 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $72.23.

HILLSBORO PARK

The home at 1910 N. Barnes

Michael Eng

This home, which has three bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,396 square feet of living area, sold for $398,000.

St. sold for $45,000. Built in 1980, it has three bedrooms, one baths and 936 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $48.08.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

The home at 4929 Bruton Road sold for $240,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,288 square feet of living area on 2.59 acres. The price per square foot is $104.90.

The home at 4612 Holloway Road sold for $180,000. Built in 1983, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,030 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $88.67.

The home at 521 S. Wiggins Road sold for $150,000. Built in 1957, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 2,010 square feet of living area on 5.04 acres. The price per square foot is $74.63.

The home at 6921 W. Dormany Road sold for $282,700 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a pool, a detached six-car garage, metal barn and 3,286 square feet of living area

on 3.49 acres. The price per square foot is $86.03.

The two homes at 2610 Ellis Road sold for $150,000. Built in 1998, the homes have six bedrooms, four baths and 2,560 square feet of living area on 3.11 acres. The price per square foot is $58.59.

The home at 906 W. Terrace Drive sold for $150,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1971, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths, a pool and 3,019 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $49.69.

rooms, two baths and 1,848 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $58.98.

The home at 2802 Abbie Aldermans Way sold for $87,500.

Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,620 square feet of living area on 1.16 acres. The price per square foot is $54.01.

The home at 3606 Drawdy Road sold for $80,000. Built in 1956, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,517 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $31.78.

The home at 4502 Joe Sanchez Road sold for $130,000.

Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,538 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $84.53.

The home at 4402 Bruton Road sold for $67,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1978, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,592 square feet of living area on 4.87 acres. The price per square foot is $42.09.

The home at 4735 Messick Ave. sold for $119,000. Built in 1975, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,176 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $101.19.

The home at 1808 E. Linda St. sold for $65,850 (short sale).

Built in 1964, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,118 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $58.90.

The home at 4529 Horseshoe Lake Way sold for $109,000.

Built in 1982, it has four bed-

The home at 1204 N. Barnes St. sold for $50,000 (short sale).

Built in 1920, it has three bed-

rooms, two baths, an aboveground pool and 1,578 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $31.69.

The home at 3305 Boot Bay Road sold for $48,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1967, it has two bedrooms, one baths and 960 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $50.

The home at 2709 Croft Drive sold for $44,010 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1953, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,392 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $31.62.

The home at 4302 Coronet Road sold for $20,000. Built in 1976, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 960 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $20.83.

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY

The home at 306 W. Saunders St. sold for $99,900. Built in 1927, it has six bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,568 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $28.

ª

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

ISABEL ESTATES

The home at 824 W. Trapnell Road sold for $195,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,869 square feet of living area on 1.15 acres. The price per square foot is $104.33.

KINGS VILLAGE

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

MONTHLY SNAPSHOT High Sale Price: $398,000 Low Sale Price: $14,000 Short Sales: Seven REO/Bank Owned: 17 Traditional Sales: 46

The home at 614 Bethune Drive sold for $77,500. Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, one-and-one-half baths and 1,345 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $57.62.

St. sold for $57,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1953, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,398 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $41.42.

The home at 702 S. Wilkins Ave. sold for $63,000. Built in 1975, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,760 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $35.80.

The home at 4603 Sleepy Hollow Lane sold for $170,100 (short sale). Built in 1976, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,948 square feet of living area on 1.06 acres. The price per square foot is $87.32.

LINCOLN PARK EAST

The home at 1321 E. Laura St. sold for $14,000. Built in 1940, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 990 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $14.14.

LITHIA

The home at 402 Swilley Road sold for $300,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,805 square feet of living area on 1.26 acres. The price per square foot is $106.95.

MAGNOLIA GREEN

The home at 3120 Azalea Blossom Drive sold for $189,500 (REO/bank owned).

Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,846 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $66.58.

MIMOSA PARK

The home at 1503 E. Mimosa Drive sold for $94,000. Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,512 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $62.17.

MORRELL PARK

The home at 1601 S. Meredith Place sold for $60,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1955, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,450 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $41.38.

NORTH GIBSON TERRACE

The home at 1209 Mississippi St. sold for $100,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,299 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $67.36.

OAKVIEW ESTATES

The home at 3012 Oakview Lane sold for $90,000. Built in 1974, it has three bedrooms, one-and-one-half baths and 1,450 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $62.07.

The home at 2015 W. Willow Drive sold for $85,000. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,040 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $81.73.

ORANGE HAVEN

The mobile home at 4720 Citrus Haven Place sold for $58,000 (REO/bank owned).

Built in 2000, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,052 square feet of living area on 3.32 acres. The price per square foot is $28.27.

PLANT CITY HEIGHTS

The home at 703 W. Cherry

RUSTIC OAKS

SPRINGHEAD

The manufactured home at 2713 Sparkman Road sold for $115,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,976 square feet of living area on 1.02 acres. The price per square foot is $58.20.

TRAPNELL RIDGE

The home at 3426 Trapnell Ridge Drive sold for $157,450.

Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,911 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $82.39.

The home at 3602 Trapnell Grove Loop sold for $130,000.

Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,472 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $88.32.

The home at 3508 Trapnell Ridge Drive sold for $128,322 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,789 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $71.73.

WALDEN LAKE

The home at 3003 Forest Club Drive sold for $249,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,604 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $95.62.

The home at 2803 Aston Ave. sold for $227,500. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,159 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $105.37.

The home at 3314 Nohlcrest Place sold for $214,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,861 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $114.99.

The home at 2812 Spring Meadow Drive sold for $178,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,808 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $98.45.

The home at 3480 Silver Meadow Way sold for $154,000.

Built in 1993, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,753 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $87.85.

The home at 4008 Concord Way sold for $158,000. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,044 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $77.30.

The home at 4020 Concord Way sold for $156,000 (REO/

bank owned). Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,869 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $83.47.

The home at 3404 Silver Meadow Way sold for $152,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,976 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $76.92.

The home at 3225 Thackery Way sold for $145,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,623 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $89.34.

The home at 4130 Barret Ave. sold for $140,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,686 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $83.04.

The home at 2808 Spring Meadow Drive sold for $135,000 (short sale). Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,808 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $74.67.

WALDEN LAKE EAST

The home at 2001 Sycamore Lane sold for $99,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,864 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $53.11.

WALDEN OAKS

The home at 1418 Walden Oaks Place sold for $97,000.

Built in 1989, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,453 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $66.76.

The home at 1454 Walden Oaks Place sold for $78,750 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1991, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,359 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $57.95.

WALDEN POINTE

The home at 1811 Via Palermo St. sold for $249,900. Built in 2014, it has six bedrooms, three baths and 3,087 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $80.98.

WASHINGTON PARK

The home at 505 N. Merrin St. sold for $105,000 (short sale). Built in 1936, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,275 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $46.15.

WILDER RESERVE

The home at 2722 Wilder Reserve Drive sold for $129,000.

Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,290 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $100.

WILDER TRACE

The home at 2711 Wilder Trace Court sold for $137,000.

Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,316 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $104.10.

WILLIS SURVEY

The home at 2702 Charlie Taylor Road sold for $249,900.

Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,258 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $110.67.

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

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

OBSERVEROBITUARIES Charles E. Evans

Charles E. Evans, 79, of Plant City, died June 7, 2014, at Health Center of Plant City.

Born July 23, 1934, in Watertown, Tenn., he was the son of the late Sion and Pearl Bateman Evans. He was the husband of Lula Fleming Evans, who survives.

Mr. Evans was a U.S. Navy veteran of Korea and worked for 33 years with Walmart in Hermitage, Tenn.

Survivors also include sons, Charles Eugene (Donna) Evans and William Evans; daughter, Judy (Ken) Der, brother, Frank Evans; seven

grandchildren; and one greatgranddaughter.

A funeral service was held June 12, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, Plant City; interment at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell.

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

Mary E. Gaul

Mary E. Gaul, 82, of Plant City, died June 11, 2014, at Plant City Health Care Center, with her sons by her side.

Born in 1931, in Michigan, she was the daughter of Ray and Catherine Stevens.

She was married to Roy Gaul and was a resident of

Plant City since 1968. She was a small-business owner and, in later years, worked for Progressive Insurance, in Tampa.

Mrs. Gaul was an avid dancer and enjoyed square and round dancing at Strawberry Square. She enjoyed animals and had a love for dogs and cats.

She is survived by sons, Doug Gaul, of Plant City, and Jon (Debra) Gaul, of South Bend, Ind.; and granddaughter Chelsea Gaul, of South Bend.

A private graveside service is planned.

James R. “Jim” Godwin

James R. “Jim” Godwin, 81, died June 8, 2014, in Brandon.

Mr. Godwin was a lifelong resident of Plant City. After 38 years at Tampa Electric, he retired as the general manager of Gannon Station Power Plant.

He served for 33 years in the U.S. Army National Guard and retired as a full bird colonel.

He is survived by his mother, Cecil Ruth Godwin; his wife of 62 years, Betty K. Godwin; daughter, Lisa Godwin Harris; son-in-law, Jay Harris; brother, Jack Godwin; sister-in-law, Shirley Godwin; one grandson, Emmanuel Houvardas; and several nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his son, Larry Alan Godwin; and father, John Edwin Godwin.

A graveside service was held June 14, at Turkey Creek Baptist Cemetery, in Plant City.

Jean Griffin

Jean Griffin, 81, of Plant City, died June 15, 2014.

She is survived by her children, Wayne (Wendy) and Donna; granddaughters Joy and Jeana; and four greatgrandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Pete; daughter, Rhonda; two brothers; and six sisters.

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 20, at Hopewell Memorial Gardens, 6005 C.R. 39 S., Plant City.

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

Wilbert “Rocky” Elby High III

Wilbert “Rocky” Elby High III, 51, of Plant City, died June 8, 2014.

Born Sept. 27, 1962, he was the son of the late Wilbert High Jr. Mr. High was a lead singer with many bands in the area.

Survivors include parents, Joyce West and Charlie Parker, and Rebecca High; son, Michael Reynolds High; daughters, Sarahanne High and Shayla High; brother, Phillip High; and sisters, Dodie High and Bobbie High.

A memorial service was held June 17, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, Plant City, Flor-

ida 33563.

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

James “Hilton” Horton

James “Hilton” Horton, 86, of Plant City, died June 14, 2014.

He was a veteran who served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II and attained the rank of staff sergeant. He served as a police officer with the Plant City Police Department, as a deputy with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and owned and operated a trucking distribution company. For the last 14 years, he enjoyed working with Publix Supermarkets.

Mr. Horton was a third-degree mason and 56-year member of Olin S. Wright Masonic Lodge #79, in Plant City, and of the Baptist faith. He loved fishing, NASCAR and cared deeply for his family and friends. He will be missed and forever live in our hearts.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Lena, and will always remain her beloved husband.

He is also survived by son, Gregory Allen Horton; daughters-in-law, Sue Horton and Patty Horton; grandchildren, Summer, Shea, Jason and Katrina; and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, J. Dennis Horton; and grandson, Ryan Patrick Horton.

A Celebration of Life was

held June 18, at Hopewell Funeral Home, Plant City. Private interment at Hopewell Memorial Gardens, Plant City.

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

Mary Lanelle Kittelstad

Mary Lanelle Kittelstad, 78, of Plant City, died June 7, 2014.

She retired after 35 years of service from First Federal Savings and Loan, in Lakeland.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Art Kittelstad; children, Arthur Kittelstad Jr., Larry Kittelstad (Vasti) and Richard Kittelstad; sister, Annette Nelson (Bob); six grandchildren; and one greatgrandchild.

Condolences may be made to the family at WeCare.io.

Janie “Kay” Lamb

Janie “Kay” Lamb, 62, of Dover, died June 10, 2014.

She was a loving wife, mother, nana and friend.

She is survived by her husband of 32 years, Raymond Lamb; children, Stacey Lamb (Tracy), Donny Lamb (Amber), Brandi Barnes (Oscar), Jerrika Rice (Aaron), Branden Lamb and Phillip Lamb; 10 grandchildren; and many other loving family and friends.

A Celebration of Life was held June 17, at Countryside Baptist Church, Dover.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, cancer.org.

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

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

ª

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

Sports PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

THE PLANT CITY LITTLE LEAGUE ALL-STARS ISSUE

LITTLE PLAYERS

BIG GAMES PREVIEW by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

The boys and girls of Plant City Little League have played hard all season long, and it’s time to honor the best of the best.

Many of these All-Stars have done big things in 2014. Whether it was something as simple as making lots of great plays in Plant City action or playing well in travel tournaments, it’s safe to say all of these kids are going to walk away from this season with good memories and, maybe, some new hardware.

Although some of the players are different, Plant City fans have high

hopes for the All-Star squads: six of these eight teams are coming off of 2013 District 4 Championship wins.

But, whether they win or lose, the most important thing is for everyone to have fun and play for the love of the game.

In this issue, you’ll find whatever you need to know about these AllStar teams: rosters, depth charts, projections and even some fun anecdotes from the players and coaches.

And, to the teams themselves: Good luck — and play ball!

9-10 BASEBALL (B) The other group of 9-10 All-Stars, the B Team, doesn’t claim to be quite as solid across the board as the A Team. It does, however, know what it does well, and the coaching staff already knows exactly how the team can win games.

All that manager Keith Hicks has to determine is who will play what defensive position, and the B Team will be ready for action.

“We’re going to be pretty good,” Hicks says. “Right now, we’re kind of going through practices and seeing what positions will be best for each kid.

“We’ve got a lot of power hitters on this team,” he says. “Where we lack would probably be pitching, but we’re very strong in terms of hitting and hitting for power. All of the kids have a pretty good chance to play well, based on their performances in the regular season. I don’t think any one kid is going to stand out — it’s going to be a good team effort.”

Hicks himself is going into this year’s tournament with a little momentum, having managed a successful All-Star team in a different league last year.

“I actually managed the Machine Pitch All-Stars last year,” he says. “ They have three different tournaments — they do it a little differently. We went to the championship game and won, then lost, and then we won the last one in Eagle Lake.”

9-10 BASEBALL (A) Last year’s 9-10 All-Star baseball team won the District 4 Championship tournament, and this year’s crop of talented young ballplayers was big enough for two squads at that age group. So, Plant City Little League will trot out the A and B teams for tournament play.

The A Team will be managed by Jeff Conyers, who believes that his squad is well-balanced and primed to make some noise.

“The expectations are high,” Conyers says.

“Pitching is the name of the game at this age, and we’ve got a ton of pitching, I believe. I’m very excited. I’ve got some really good assistant coaches helping me, so I’ve got high expectations.

“Just about every kid on this team can pitch and pitch pretty well,” he says, “At this age, pitching’s everything. And, we have a real solid defense. We’re very well-rounded. We’ve got some guys who can really crush the ball. We’ve got several standout players, but there’s not much drop-off from players one through 12.”

The A Team and B Team will both begin tournament play on June 23, at Little League of Poinciana, 4051 Laurel Ave.

ROSTER Starting Pitcher (SP): Anthony Lugo First Base (1B): Kaden Palmer Second Base (2B): Hunter Smith Shortstop (SS): Joshua Herring Third Base (3B): Ty Gould; James Brown Catcher (C): Jace Stines Left Field (LF): Rhet Conyers Center Field (CF): Ethan Pues; Alex Machado Right Field (RF): Jacob Deal Manager: Jeff Conyers Not Pictured: Carver Wineinger

ROSTER Starting Pitcher (SP): Owen Deshong; Wyatt Fordham, Loyd Hernandez First Base (1B): Gavyn Dean Second Base (2B): Loyd Hernandez Shortstop (SS): Ray Cowen Third Base (3B): Jonah Bendorf Catcher (C): Kaden Mizell, Blake Tyson Left Field (LF): Eddie Cruz Center Field (CF): Joshua Cruz; Lane Hicks Right Field (RF): Artaro Sierra Manager: Keith Hicks

ª

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

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

10-11 BASEBALL Blink, and you might miss the 10-11 Baseball team. While many of the Plant City teams are focusing on their pitching or hitting, manager Danny Coton and his squad are planning to use their wheels to their benefit.

“I think the advantage we have is that we have five or six of the fastest kids in the district on this team,” Coton says. “We’re hoping to use some power hitters and our speed to win.”

Specifically, they’re going to keep opposing pitchers on their toes by going all-out on the base paths.

“We’re going to be very aggressive when baserunning, because we have such a talented group of fast kids,” Coton says. “And some big hitters, too.

We’re hoping to get the fast kids on base and have the big hitters hit them in.”

Many of the boys will be asked to play positions that they didn’t see much time at in the regular season, but they seem to be taking it well in practices.

“It’s hard to move kids around to different positions,” Coton says. “The players seem to be adjusting well, getting along well, and that’s always the key when you’re bringing kids from different teams together.”

The 10-11 team will begin tournament play on June 23, at Mike Sansone Park.

9-10 SOFTBALL Brady Chason may have known that he’d be a head coach someday, but he wasn’t expecting his first gig to come with an All-Star team.

“I’ve been coaching softball for about two years, but this is my first time with an All-Star team,” Chason says.

He’ll be in charge of the 9-10 Softball team, which is coming off of a District 4 Championship tournament win in 2013. While some of the area managers have their game strategies set, Chason and his girls are planning to play it more by ear.

“Our strategy for the upcoming tournaments is to win,” he says. “That’s really about it — we’re just going to go out there and showcase what we have. Hopefully, we’ll win. That’s what we plan on doing.”

It will take a total team effort to repeat as district champs, and to go further, and Chason believes he has the team to do it.

“They’re a very talented 10-year-old team,” he says. “Everybody’s strong all-around. I’m very blessed to have a team like this. They did win the district last year, so I’ve got big shoes to fill.”

Like the 9-10 Baseball teams, the 9-10 Softball team will begin tournament play on June 23. Fortunately for local fans, they’ll be playing at Mike Sansone Park.

Starting Pitcher (SP): Courtney Killick First Base (1B): Lauren Ray Second Base (2B): Kyla Futch Shortstop (SS): Keelyn Johnson Third Base (3B): Bailee Kidwell Catcher (C): Katlyn Teague Left Field (LF): Jamie Johnson Center Field (CF): Lauryn Tyler Right Field (RF): Brooke Wilson Manager: Brady Chason Not pictured: Rachel Arnold, Sade Broadnax, Emily Little

Perhaps no other All-Star team is about to enter the District 4 tournaments with as much momentum as the 11-12 Baseball team. That’s because the vast majority of this team — save for two players — just returned from a successful Cooperstown Dreams Park Tournament appearance last week. Operating as the Florida Rawlings team, the boys finished 19th out of 104 teams.

“We’re going to be a tough team to beat,” manager Tim Dowdy says. “They’re all-around ballplayers — we can use seven or eight of them anywhere.”

Although the team is solid from top to bottom, its greatest attribute may be hitting the ball. Garrett Gould, Tyler Dowdy, Cole Cothren and Brent May constitute the home run-hitting heart of the batting order, and contact hitters such as Ryan Robinson can create plenty of scoring chances by getting on base.

The other benefit of having almost the entire team play together in Cooperstown is that Dowdy and his coaching staff already have a pretty good grasp of what positions and strategies work best out.

With last year’s District 4 Championship win in mind, the 2014 team is looking to stay on the roll it started in Cooperstown and make a splash in any tournament action. The team starts tournament play June 27, at Haines City Little League, 2401 E. Johnson Ave.

Team manager James Swinson took last year’s 10-11 team to a District 4 championship but still has Sectionals in the back of his mind.

“They won districts right here in Plant City, went on to sectionals and played tough, but came up a little short,” he says. “With this year’s team, I’d like to see them take it a step further.”

To help make a bigger tournament run, Swinson and his girls are turning much of their attention away from the plate appearances. As the saying goes, “Defense wins championships.”

“We’re spending a lot of time focusing on pitching and defense and, hopefully, that will be enough to carry us through,” he says. “We’ve got a lot of good girls that care about each other. They care about teamwork, and hard work. They want to work hard to get better.”

It seems as though the girls themselves want to go further, too, even though not all of them played on last year’s team. The goal for 2014 is to make it all the way to the state tournament.

“I’d like to see them make that state tournament this year. If we get some good practice time in, with this weather, then I like our chances.”

The 10-11 team will begin tournament play on June 23, at Mike Sansone Park, and they’ll have an automatic bid to Sectionals, July 11 to 13, at Pinecrest Little League, 9312 S. C.R. 39.

Starting Pitcher (SP): Kelein Johnson First Base (1B): Austin Jones Second Base (2B): Brent Coton; Jordan Kelly Shortstop (SS): Jacob Fuentes Third Base (3B): Justin McQuaig Catcher (C): Cade Denhoff Left Field (LF): Christian Bisono Center Field (CF): Jackson Knotts Right Field (RF): Maxwell Ness Manager: Danny Coton Not Pictured: Jaden Bendorf, Patrick Connelly, Dawson Traffanstedt

ROSTER

11-12 BASEBALL

10-11 SOFTBALL

ROSTER

ROSTER Starting Pitcher (SP): Kayla Swinson First Base (1B): Olivia Whitman Second Base (2B): Regan Messick Shortstop (SS): Alyssa Grimes Third Base (3B): Lacey Hicks Catcher (C): Alexandra Harrell Left Field (LF): Morgan Gill; Phoenix Mattair Center Field (CF): Stephanie Bowers; Carley Cotnoir Right Field (RF): Kellie Anne Kirkland Manager: James Swinson Not pictured: Ashlynn Dempsey

ROSTER Starting Pitcher (SP): Brent May First Base (1B): Tyler Dowdy Second Base (2B): Christopher Rodriguez Shortstop (SS): Garrett Gould Third Base (3B): Cole Cothren; Chase English Catcher (C): Alex Rodriguez Left Field (LF): Ryan Robinson; Brayden Crews Center Field (CF): Chase Hubble Right Field (RF): Jose Machado; Nicholas Luscko Manager: Tim Dowdy Not pictured: Tre’ Ragan

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

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

SENIORS SOFTBALL John Perez cuts no corners when asked to talk about his Seniors Softball All-Stars — he truly believes nobody in the area can match up.

“We have the team to win,” Perez says. “We’re the best team in the district, or even the area, and I expect us to make it to states. With the pitching we have, and the group of girls, I think we’ll go pretty far.”

Although the team boasts several girls who have hit in the .400 area — Perez puts the number at six or seven — it’s the team’s pitching that brings the overall confidence level up. Though the Juniors are deep at the position, they have a real game-changer on the mound in starter Emilie Thompson.

Thompson, whom Perez says has averaged around 10 strikeouts per game, is arguably one of the top pitchers in the county. Perhaps her most impressive accomplishment of the season was leading her team to a 19-9 championship victory over Polk City in the regular season, despite trailing, 9-1, earlier in the game.

But, the team’s biggest motivator will be one of its other players: first baseman Taylor Goethals, who is battling cancer. After all, if one of their own is strong enough to be brave in the fight of her life, then the rest of the team can surely handle a bunch of softball games. They’re currently looking into making ribbons — decorated with Goethals’s number — to wear on their jerseys.

The girls will begin tournament pay June 23, at Mike Sansone Park, and they have an automatic bid to Sectionals, July 11 to 13, at Pinecrest Little League.

JUNIORS BASEBALL For team manager Jeff Jacobsen, coaching the Junior Baseball All-Stars is kind of like a homecoming.

“I haven’t been out here in four years,” he says.

“Last time I was out here, we had a good group of kids, and it looks like they still have a lot of talent.

My sons brought me back. My son (Joe Jacobsen) is playing, and I’m getting back into it.”

Getting to coach his own son is nice and, as an added bonus, Jacobsen has been saddled with a very good team.

“We’ve got a lot of talent,” he says. “A lot of pitching. We’ve got a well-rounded team. We’ll have a real strong defensive team, and I hope it’s going to be a real strong offensive team, too.”

Ask about the team’s greatest strength, though, and Jacobsen will bring up the intangibles — the things that can’t always be coached.

“It’s the discipline, he says. “It’s the kids not having nerves — a lot of the kids have some experience under their belts, so they feel comfortable out here.”

The on-field product is pretty good, too.

“We’ve got a lot of speed, and I don’t think we’ll have to resort to small ball — we’ve got a lot of strong hitters, too,” he says. “Our strategy is to hold them down and score runs.”

The boys will look to avenge the 2013 team’s District 4 tournament loss, beginning June 27 at Mike Sansone Park.

ROSTER Starting Pitcher (SP): Emilie Thompson First Base (1B): Taylor Goethals Second Base (2B): Randi Willis Shortstop (SS): Kaitlyn Harrell Third Base (3B): Lindsey Prestwood; Destinee Ponson Catcher (C): Madison Reed Left Field (LF): Victoria Goethals Center Field (CF): Sydney St. Brun Right Field (RF): Marybeth Stewart Manager: John Perez Not Pictured: Alexis Barnett, Victoria Goethals, Destinee Ponson, Marybeth Stewart

ROSTER Starting Pitcher (SP): Landon Scudder First Base (1B): Hunter Carlisle; Eduardo Lucas Second Base (2B): Evan MacMichael Shortstop (SS): Josiah Lara Third Base (3B): Colton Tanner; Joe Jacobsen Catcher (C): Coty DeLuca Left Field (LF): Keyshawn Gardner; Lance Young Center Field (CF): Reed Tyler Right Field (RF): Nicholas Fernandez Manager: Jeff Jacobsen Not pictured: Adam Givens, Mitchell Jones

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

Wake up! You’re an All-Star!

JUSTIN KLINE

Usually, when we hear about All-Star selections in the pro leagues, everybody finds out by checking the Internet. The players probably get an email, a phone call, or they may even find a leaked announcement online.

There’s not much of a surprise there, for the most part. I like finding things out a little more when there’s some kind of buildup to it — maybe something to look for, or to look forward to, that will keep me waiting in anticipation.

So, I’ll be the first to say that Plant City Little League’s way of breaking the news is awesome.

Although they could settle for something as simple as a league-wide email to coaches and parents, they choose to go above and beyond that every year by turning it into a Christmas-ish thing: leaving something for the kids to wake up to on the morning of announcements.

If you’re a kid who plays ball in Plant City Little League, then this bright sign is exactly what you want to wake up to on the mid-

June morning, when the announcements are made.

Although some kids already know what’s up when they see the sign, first-time AllStars will be happy to read the caption: “A 2014 Plant City Little League All-Star Lives Here!”

“Typically, they are blue for baseball and pink or red for softball,” T.J. Messick says. “The kids are always excited, and they all know to look outside for their sign the morning of announcements.

It’s pretty cool.”

Here’s how it works: On the eve of the All-Star announcements (which are split up into two non-consecutive days), each All-Star team’s coaching staff will make a list of the players and their homes.

At midnight, they’ll spread out around town and stick those signs in the players’ front lawns. So, if you see this in person next year, don’t freak out — unless the people break into the houses, because then it’s definitely not the coaches.

It’s great, because it’s so subtle, yet you couldn’t miss

it if you tried. Keith Hicks brought one to the Martin Luther King Recreation Center’s baseball fields so that I could see it, and these suckers are bright. Back in my day, I would have hopped on my bike and pedaled from house to house to see who all had the signs in their yards; today, many of these kids have smartphones and likely will know everything within five minutes.

I can only imagine how much more fun it would be if something like this happened in professional sports.

There might have to be some workarounds (placing signs on hotel-room doors), because of travel schedules, but it’s probably more fun than any email that says, “Congrats, but don’t forget about tonight’s game.”

The pros could totally learn from Plant City Little League.

All of the baseball All-Stars wke up to see this sign.

ª

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

PLANT CITY

RAIN

(INCHES)

WEATHER

WED.

June 11

0.48

THURS.

TEMPERATURES

June 12

1.02

FRI.

0.76

SAT.

June 14

0.16

SUN.

0.10

MON.

June 16

0.01

TUES.

June 17

0.00

JUNE

TO DATE

2.64 (2013: 5.23)

HIGH 89 87 88 89 91 91 92

Thurs., June 19 Fri., June 20 Sat., May 21 Sun., June 22 Mon., June 23 Tues., June 24 Wed., June 25

June 13

June 15

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES Thurs., June 19 Fri., June 20 Sat., June 21 Sun., June 22 Mon., June 23 Tues., June 24 Wed., June 25

SUNRISE 6:32 a.m.

6:32 a.m.

6:33 a.m.

6:33 a.m.

6:33 a.m.

6:33 a.m.

6:34 a.m.

SUNSET 8:27 p.m.

8:28 p.m.

8:28 p.m.

8:28 p.m.

8:28 p.m.

8:28 p.m.

8:28 p.m.

LOW 69 70 72 72 72 73 74

MOON PHASES

July 12

, 3&

July 18

SEEDLESS WATERMELON SHIPPING POINT: CENTRAL AND NORTH FLORIDA SIZES 36s and 45s 60s

YEAR

TO DATE 9.84 (2013: 14.33)

LOW $.19 $.15

HIGH $.20 $.16

June 27

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

July 5

Matt Cipriano, worship and student leader at Church on the Rock, submitted this photo, which he took from his back yard after a hard rain. “God keeps His promises,” he says.

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.

SMOKING ALTERNATIVES

By Corey Bowers | Edited by Timothy E. Parker

ACROSS 1 Block, as a river 6 Fine hairs 11 Cry from a crib 15 “Team” famously lacks one 18 Japanese cartooning style 19 Car security device 20 Hieroglyphics bird 21 Walk weightily 22 Objective 24 One of a kind 26 Prefix with “skid” 27 JFK predictions 28 “Sacro” finisher 30 Kind of code 31 Not pouring smoothly, as a liquid 33 Commandment taboo 35 Sent payment 37 Like some algebra 40 Dancer’s bodysuit 42 “___ to Billie Joe” 43 Tokyo, once 44 Surprise party command 46 Evening hour 47 Shout of praise 51 Once-a-decade events 53 Refer to, as a dictionary 55 Rowing device 56 Taxi driver 57 Misbehave 60 Russian legislative assembly 61 Peevish mood 62 Be on the mend 64 Ladder segment 67 Indian sages 69 What many babies do 71 Man without a country, e.g.

74 Poverty-stricken 75 Employ a therapeutic technique

77 78 79 80 82 85 88 89 92 94 96 98 99 100 101 103 105 109 110 111 112 114 116 120 122 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132

Situated above Seer’s reading material Petri-dish medium Creme cookie Former Japanese capital Aid partner Games partner Bitter Ones who forge new territory Lockjaw Big birds Sound in an empty room Geneticist’s study Bouncers’ requests Nicosia native Ship’s finance officer Saliva-producing organism, e.g.

Prefix for “while” Voicemail prompt Bakery attraction Serving spoon Musical miscellany Eastern nurse See 71-Across Not sticky Genesis locale Bakery appliance Crinkly fabric No genius, he Stop sign color Word before “#1” Kennel sounds “The ___ of Kilimanjaro”

DOWN 1 Delany of “China Beach” 2 “Author unknown” (Abbr.)

3 Julep enhancer 4 Call the strikes 5 TV dinner morsel 6 Malicious, as a remark

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

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 21 23 25 29 32 34 36 37 38 39 40 41 45 47 48 49 50 52 54 58 59 61 63 65 66 68 69 70 71

Kulik on ice TV canine The lyrical Gershwin Kind of sac “Bus” or “sub” starter No longer waiting on the pier Cut into small pieces Nile menace Advance warning Feature of city life Ran in neutral Tropical African shrub Eye-for-an-eye act Among, to the Bard South American grassy plain Waikiki Beach locale Mattingly or Johnson Dough, cabbage or kale Walesa of Poland “What’s the big ___?”

Cool and indifferent “___ we forget” Separate forcefully Xmas month “To err is ___” Outsiders to the club Water nymph, in mythology Showy and pretentious Shish-kebab stick Wrestling for big guys Large coffee container Cocoon occupant Inscribed stone markers Mont Blanc, e.g.

After deductions Understand, a la Heinlein Santa ___, California Trade requiring artistic skill Isolated and dangerous Nasal passages

© 2013 Universal Uclick

72 73 76 78 81 83 84 86 87 89

___ and terminer (criminal court) CIA or KGB operative Plague insect Dismiss out of hand Comply with a command Accessible to everyone First X or O? Sea eagle Alexandra’s husband Like the Incas

90 91 93 95 97 101 102 104 105 106 107

Push to action Medium of exchange Part of a sentence Cadets of Colorado Springs Bro’s kin Lunar depression Discordant, as music Logic More mentally there Opposite of strengthen Shaped like a megaphone

108 110 113 115 117 118 119 121 123 124

Antipasto morsel “The Prince of ___” .00001 newton Arctic Circle native, perhaps “Blue II” painter Joan Confess openly Farm cluckers Do a tugboat chore Valuable rock Bad ___ (spa)

C RY P T O G R A M S 1 . F O F J X N T N Q AT WA F T H F Y F E F D H F O JA H J K Y Z K K J D V O WA R F M O WA M K W N Z X H E T N YA A H . O WA Y F E ’ K Q AT H J Y O : “ J R J X X V N N D F WA F H F D H M N Z Y F D W F D V F T N Z D H .”

2 . M Y W J X R U , M N M Y W M S X M A S M D N R U R C W Y R D L G D Z R Z JA Z Y V K J R D G D M I T J S D V N S . “ N Z M D ’ Y Y V Y W R K J M I M LV C D D Z R L R R ’ Y T S R RY ? ” Y M J X D Z R N M Y W. .

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

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