06.26.15 PCTO

Plant City Times &

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

A PARTNERSHIP WITH

ƃ @3 Ƅ ƚ

CAPITALGIRL

FFA student raising money for conference.

PAGE 3

PLANT CITY LITTLE LEAGUE PREVIEW: PAGES 12-14

FREE • FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015

GOT POWER?

Kids at the library transform into superheroes.

PAGE 8

OUR TOWN tribute by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Family, friends remember barber The only thing the owner of Bruce’s Barber Shop loved more than FSU football was his family.

+ Former Queen makes dean’s list

Chelsea Bowden was named to the Spring 2015 dean’s list at Samford University. She is an early childhood education/early childhood special education/ elementary education/elementary collaborative major.

Samford University releases dean’s lists after the close of the fall and spring semesters each academic year. To qualify for the dean’s list, a student must have earned a minimum 3.5 grade point average out of a possible 4.0 while attempting at least 12 credit hours of coursework.

The dean’s list is the highest academic recognition given by the school at the end of each semester.

Samford University is Alabama’s top-ranked private university and provides nationally-recognized academic programs rooted in its historic Christian mission.

Bowden was the 2012 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen.

Mr. Hancock died Tuesday, June 16, at home. Although the medical examiner’s report has not yet been released, officials believe that Mr. Hancock’s death was most likely caused by an electrocution that occurred while he was replacing a ceiling fan.

Mr. Hancock was well-liked in the Plant City community.

Many have already stopped

by Bruce’s Barber Shop to pay their respects. The shop is located near Publix on Thonotosassa Road in Plant City.

Westley Hancock often joked that he was going to make his wife, Emily Hancock, the best barber in town.

“He was one of a kind,” Emily Hancock said. “He was full of life.”

After attending the Plant City High School cosmetology program and graduating in 1992, Mr. Hancock opened Bruce’s Barber Shop. He named it after his grandfather. Mr. Hancock was the third barber in his family, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.

After his death, his friends and family also took to Facebook to share memories and photos. Mr. Hancock loved FSU football, fishing and the beach.

Julie Hasting, a Plant City resident, grew up with both Mr. Hancock and Emily Hancock.

“He was such a caring person and a strong leader,” Julie Hasting said. “He was a problem solver and always had everyone’s back.”

Julie Hasting’s 14-year-old son, Cole Hasting, recognized

Mr. Hancock’s genuineness. He went to Bruce’s Barber Shop every two weeks to get his hair cut.

“He always cared about what was going on in everybody’s life,” Cole said.

Many believe this is what made Mr. Hancock have such a lasting impact on members of the community.

“When you care, you have to remember and show it,” Julie Hasting said.

SEE HANCOCK / PAGE 4

HOMETOWN HEROES by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Westley Hancock

SPARK IN THE PARK

by Abby Baker | Staff Intern

July Fourth celebration to go off with a bang For four consecutive years, Plant City will opened its skies for a finale of fireworks.

Hundreds of people have made their way into the Plant City Stadium to enjoy grilled food and family activities on the Fourth of July holiday, and the tradition booms on in 2015.

Plant City Recreation & Parks Department, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce

FIREWORKS / PAGE 4

going up

by Amber Jurgensen

+ Student chosen as intern

Plant City High School senior Katelyn Scott was accepted into the intern program at the Photo Archives and History Center and began Friday, June 12.

The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center’s internship program is designed to provide students the opportunity to learn museum, archives, and history center skills in a real-life setting. During her internship, Katelyn will be assisting with an inventory of image enlargements and library resources, and

OUR TOWN / PAGE 4

, 3&

Courtesy photo

Timothy Conway V, Timothy Conway IV and Timothy Conway III were together for Timothy Conway V’s graduation from the University of Virginia.

Runs in the Family The Conway family has three generations of service to the United States.

P

lant City residents know Dr. Timothy Conway III, of Conway & Mathews P.A., for his outstanding dentistry service, which has been a staple in the Plant City community since 1977.

Lesser known is Timothy Conway’s service to his country. The Plant City dentist served in the Florida Army National Guard from 1988 to 2009, where he served as a dentist in the

131st Mobile Army Surgical Hospital and as a lieutenant colonel chief of dentistry for the state of Florida.

“I owed something,” Timothy Conway said of his decision to join the military. “Since I lost a lot of friends [in Vietnam], I owed something back.”

While serving, Timothy Conway was the commander of a unit that received an award. The unit was given accommodations for deploying soldiers

to Afghanistan and Iraq.

“The unit got recognition,” Timothy Conway said. “I was extremely proud of my soldiers.”

Even with the recognition, which he never expected, Timothy Conway acknowledged that the military life was not for the faint of heart.

“It’s not for everybody,” he said. “So few people … find time to do their part.

They want things to happen, but they’re just not

willing to make any sacrifices.”

Timothy Conway isn’t the only one in his family to have served in the military.

His wife, Pam Conway, was raised by family members who served in the Army, Coast Guard and Air Force.

The legacy continues in his own bloodline. Timothy Conway’s oldest son, Timothy Conway IV, and his grandson, Timothy Con-

Addison Frances Lumsden was born between the second and third floors of South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City.

Not many people can say they have taken half an elevator ride. But Amanda and Jeff Lumsden’s newborn daughter, Addison Frances, has. She was born in one of the South Flor-

SEE BABY / PAGE 4

SEE HEROES / PAGE 4

HOMETOWN HEROES

EDITOR’S NOTE: Hometown Heroes is a recurring feature in the Plant City Times & Observer in which we profile veterans from Plant City. If you have a loved one currently serving or who has served in the past, please contact Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen by email at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com or by phone at (813) 704-6850.

This week’s winner is

Scott Kudlinski See the photo on PAGE 15.

Baby born in hospital elevator

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

Amber Jurgensen

Addison was born at 9:52 a.m., and weighed 4 pounds, 3 ounces, and was 18 inches long.

Vol.2,No.40 | Onesection Crossword...................15

Obituaries...................11

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

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

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

COMMUNITYCALENDAR FRIDAY, JUNE 26

SATURDAY, JUNE 27

Acoustic Happy Hour — music takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, June 26, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

Christian Contemporary Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Friday, June 26, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220.

Church of Nazarene VBS — takes place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, June 26, to Sunday, June 28, at Plant City Community Church of the Nazarene, 1301 Mud Lake Road. On Friday, there will be a giant waterslide. On Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., there will be horses and other animals. On Sunday, it will close with a potluck dinner. The church will provide hot dogs, apple pie and soda. Bring your favorite dish to celebrate Independence Day. (813) 7164899.

Heritage Fest at Glover School — takes place beginning at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 26, at Glover School, 5110 Horton Road. Enjoy a BBQ competition, storytelling and campus tours.

Los Dos Live! — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 26, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 752-9100.

Bealsville Gala — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds, 2301 W. Oak Ave. Tickets are $35 per person.

Fall Show Series — takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at Black Dog Farm, 6306 Barton Road. There will be schooling shows for dressage and jumping, from beginners to advanced. The public is invited to watch for free.

BlackDogConnemara.com.

Heritage Fest at Bealsville Rec Center — takes place beginning at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 27, at the Bealsville Rec Center, 5009 Nesmith Road. Enjoy historic reenactments, historic marker and family introductions.

Men of Courage Seminar — takes place beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 27, at Plant City Christian Center, 1214 W. Reynolds St. Suite 2. Plant City Christian Center Inc., in partnership with Building Strong Families Inc., will host the second “Men of Courage Seminar.” The topics to be discussed include: And the Greatest is Love: Love First, Love Fully; Lead with the Heart: Kindness Is Not Weakness; Keeping Up Your Temple: Physical Fitness; Leaving a Legacy: Financial

Fitness; and Just Do It: Creating An Action Plan for Success. The speakers include: Dewaine Godfrey, youth pastor at Faith Family Outreach Church of Clearwater; John Miller, Jr., an organization development consultant and retired U.S. Navy Master Chief; Flexx Pearcey and Elijah Holloway, of Workout Time LLC, a Tampa-based gym; Derek Ingraham, pastor of Mt. Moriah Ministries; and Reggie Rivers, senior pastor at Plant City Christian Center, Inc. Music will be provided by the male chorus of Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church.

There is no cost to attend the seminar but pre-registration is required. For more information and to preregister, contact Dr. Pauline Rivers, president of Building Strong Families Inc., at (813) 759-0260 or by email at pmrivers@aol.com.

P.C. Entertainment Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser — takes place from 4 to 7 p.m.

Saturday, June 27, at St. Peters Episcopal Church, 302 Carey Street. The dinner will cost $10 for adults and $5 for children.

The meal includes spaghetti with a choice of meat or plain tomato sauce, salad, bread, dessert, and tea, coffee or fruit drink. Tickets will be sold at the door. Take out will be available. Live entertainment will be provided by singers, actors

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: ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday.

Thonotosassa Road. (813) 7529100.

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

Saturday, June 27, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Enjoy live music from local artists. (813) 752-1220.

SUNDAY, JUNE 28 Community Faith Service — takes place beginning at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, June 28, at Bealsville Rec Center, 5009 Nesmith Road. Free to the public.

BEST BET Downtown Merchant’s Summer Carnival — takes place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins Street. Browse through craft, food and store vendors under the shade of Historic Downtown’s oak trees. and musicians from the show “Music Man.” The dinner is a fundraiser for the musical. For more information call (813) 752-0728.

Sing! America! Concert — takes place beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, June 27, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 402 English St. Some of the works to be performed are “From Sea to Shining Sea,” Aaron Copeland’s “At the River,” Irving Berlin’s “God Bless America,” a stirring arrangement of the traditional American folksong “Shenandoah,” and John Phillip

Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever” in an arrangement created exclusively for the Plant City Community Chorale. Trinity United Methodist has limited seating, and PCCC is anticipating a crowd, as has happened at previous Patriotic Concerts.

Advance admission tickets are available from any chorale member, online at pccchorale.org, or by calling the PCCC Ticket Line at (813) 757-0212.

Skip Frye Live! — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, June 27, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210

MONDAY, JUNE 29 Celebrate Recovery — takes place beginning at 7 p.m.

Monday, June 29, at Parkway Baptist Church, 4305 James L. Redman Parkway. A free recovery program for those struggling with addiction, depression, co-dependency, anger and grief. Contact Lauren at (813) 763-4355 for more information.

TUESDAY, JUNE 30 The Recovery for Life — takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, June 30, at the Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House, 504 N. Palm Drive. It is a 12-step Bible-based program to help free individuals from all forms of addiction. Debbie Ray, (813) 763-1562.

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

governance by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Plant City commission approves homeless dinner program move

Friends in the Park will be serving the homeless at the Winter Visitor Center starting July 1.

At the City Commission meeting Monday, June 22, commissioners unanimously voted to approve a motion that will move a program that feeds those in need at a Plant City park to the Winter Visitors Center beginning July 1.

The program, called Friends in the Park, consists of churches and other organizations that meet at Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park off Wheeler Street behind Bruton Memorial Library to feed the homeless or those who need assistance.

In the past, neighbors surrounding the park have said the homeless linger after the meals.

“This helps make the park more open for local citizens,” Mayor Rick Lott said.

It will also benefit the patrons and volunteers. During the summer months, the temperature rises and the

bugs come out. Rain is also an issue they face.

“They have a place in an air-conditioned building,” Lott said. “It’s a win-win for everyone.”

The move comes at no cost to the city, thanks to Plant Citybased Unity in the Community, a non-profit organizations that stepped up to cover expenses.

Unity presented a $5,000 check to City Manager Mike Herr last week.

“We focus on children, but we care about needy adults,” Lawson said. “We felt it was a worthwhile cause … We wanted to do something to help.

We felt like the visitor center would be a better location.”

Restoring Hope Global Inc. has agreed to serve as the parent organization for 16 ministries that provide feeding and support services.

The lease agreement specifies Friends in the Park will

have exclusive use of the Winter Visitor Center from 4 to 7 p.m. everyday.

The Winter Visitor Center is located on North Dort Street and is part of the Planteen Recreation Center campus.

CITY GROWTH

The June 22 meeting also marked the first of two public hearings regarding the Interstate 4 Tech Corridor Overlay District.

“This is another opportunity for economic growth,” Mark Hudson, director of Plant City’s planning and zoning district, said.

The purpose of the corridor is to create more land available for light industrial and office development. Many areas near the corridor are already industrial, and no changes would occur to the underlying zoning.

But for the other areas, the

rezoning would allow for a faster, more streamlined development process.

“Every time a builder or business owner has to come in front of a board, it slows down the process,” Lott said.

During the first hearing, the commission was presented with options for the corridor, including a corporate village, that would be used for offices, and an industrial park, that would allow for warehouse distribution.

By approving the uses up front, the commission hopes to bring high-paying jobs to the city.

The Planning Board recommended adoption of the ordinance. The second hearing is scheduled for Monday, July 13.

The commission also approved an ordinance for 17.49 acres of land to be moved from a transitional area to the Sterling Commerce Center

tribute by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

Family mourns mother one month after wrong-way crash A roadside memorial is set up near Bryan Elementary to mark the spot where Claudia Alderman, 59, was killed in a wrong-way accident a little over a month ago. A wreath of flowers rests against the base of a street sign pole. Fist-sized motorcycle figurines are nestled between the colored petals.

Ms. Alderman loved to ride motorcycles. She was riding when 21-year-old Osbaldo Campos hit her head on while driving down Reynolds Street, June 12.

“She was not just a weekend rider,” her daughter Toni Simonds Raulerson said. “It wasn’t just her hobby.”

Ms. Alderman rode for 12 years. For many of those years, it was her main vehicle. It was not uncommon for her to put 30,000 miles on her bike in one year.

She had a respect for the road.

“The biggest thing was buying a good helmet,” her daughter Crystal Alderman said.

“She’d have $600, $700, $800 helmets.”

She got her start riding when she was dating someone with a motorcycle. Then she got tired of riding on the back.

“Classic mom: she’s very independent,” Stacey Simonds Claudia Alderman started riding about 12 years ago. said. “She didn’t want to wait on anyone.”

But Ms. Alderman had other passions.

She loved the gym. She had taken her daughters to the Power Shop in Historic Downtown since they were young.

Crystal Alderman remembers doing her homework there.

When her daughters were old enough to train, they’d join in. Stacey Simonds would meet her mother at Fitness for 10 during the week to have bonding time. She’d push Ms. Alderman in plyometrics and Ms. Alderman would push her in weights.

Ms. Alderman also competed as a body builder both sepaAmber Jurgensen rately and with her daughter, Her family remembers her New Year’s Day feasts, fitness discipline and big heart.

Toni Simonds Raulerson.

They also interacted professionally: Ms. Alderman as a re- her,” Toni Simonds Raulerson and their families could stop by altor at Charles Rutenberg Re- said. “She never did it for the any time for a feast that includalty; Toni Simonds Raulerson money … she knew if she did ed black eyed peas, thought to as a lender at Florida Mortgage it in the right way she’d get re- bring luck and prosperity.

Firm. Ms. Raulerson’s big heart wards. And she did.”

“She was superstitious,” was able to shine at her job.

But her biggest passion Crystal Alderman said.

At her memorial service, a was her family. With a flexible From the time they were family came up to her daugh- schedule as a realtor, Ms. Alder- young, Ms. Alderman always ters and told them that their man was always at her grand- made time for her daughters. mother was an angel. Ms. Al- sons’ sports games. Full of en- She was a single mother who derman helped them get a ergy, she’d chase them around made sure to provide the most house in Plant City by cutting the house — even when she she could. Stacey Simonds her commission to almost wasn’t supposed to. and Toni Simonds Raulerson nothing. The family had been Grandson Dylan Couture danced throughout school. She trying for years to move from remembers her cooking the would make their costumes.

Georgia to be closer to rela- most. Ms. Alderman always She pushed youngest daughtives. made breakfast when her ter, Crystal Alderman, in her “It made me feel so good to grandsons slept over. And on softball playing. On vacation to hear other people speak well of New Year’s Day, her daughters the beach, Ms. Alderman would

Claudia Alderman loved motorcycles, the gym and her family.

Courtesy photo

still have her practice by throwing 100 pitches on the sand.

“She never missed a softball game in 12 years,” Crystal Alderman said. “She was very hard on me, but to my benefit.”

Her daughters received Easter baskets and Christmas stockings into adulthood. She’d come over to their house every chance she’d get. Sometimes her family would have to push her out the door. They’d bond over simple things like going to the gym or grocery shopping.

“She was such a big part of each of our lives, together and separately,” Crystal Alderman said. “She made it a point to visit or call.”

But the biggest thing she handed down to her daughters was to have manners, perseverance and tenacity.

“She taught us these things not by words, but by actions,” Stacey Simonds said. “Find a way, find a way. There’s always a way through it … if you dream it, you can make it happen.”

Ms. Alderman is survived by her daughters Toni Simonds Raulerson (Roy), of Plant City, Stacey Simonds, of Valrico, and Crystal Alderman (Bryan Couture), of Plant City; grandsons, Dylan, Austin, Drake and Coltin; siblings, Katrina, Linda, Andy, Margaret, Clifford, Libby and Rick; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Planned Development district.

The area containing wetlands will remain undeveloped.

The commission announced that another 100,000-squarefoot commercial building in this area will be starting development on County Line Road, where one such building is already under construction.

“Companies move in and bring in good-paying jobs that help improve the quality of life here in Plant City,” Lott said.

Directly following the commission meeting, the board was given an update on the Midtown marketing study.

The study was conducted to look at some opportunities that Midtown can support financially. Although office space in Plant City makes up less than one percent of market space in Hillsborough County, the district received positive feedback.

The study revealed that there

IN OTHER NEWS

The commission voted to keep residents of Plant City as the exclusive members of the library board, instead of voting for an amendment that would allow other Hillsborough County residents to serve on the board.

In the past, the city has not had trouble finding residents to serve on the board. Many of the commissioners believe that by keeping only Plant City residents on the board, residents will take into consideration the best interests of both the city and the county.

Following the decision, Mayor Rick Lott addressed the library board.

“We appreciate the hard work you do,” he said.

“We take everything you say under our advisement.

This is something we discussed quite a bit and took very seriously.”

is an opportunity to support smaller-scale retail.

“The nice thing is we’re continuously moving forward,” Lott said. “[We want to] reinvigorate a new life into the center core of our city.”

A proposal will be sent out in six to 12 months to develop it.

FUTURE FARMERS by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

FFA member raising money to attend D.C. conference A Durant student wants to make it to the nation’s capital.

In sixth grade, Haley Riley quivered in her boots at the mere thought of public speaking.

Today, she is the vice president of Durant High School’s Future Farmers of America chapter, and has competed in public speaking at the local, district and state levels.

“It’s been an amazing journey,” Haley said.

Now a junior in high school, the formerly shy student has discovered a love of public speaking.

“I love having a crowd of people in the room and looking them in the eye,” Haley said. “It’s amazing, the positive energy in the room.”

Haley hopes to attend the FFA’s Washington Leadership Conference in the nation’s capital in the summer of 2016. But to get there, she needs to raise $1,800 for her trip.

Haley did not ask her parents for money to attend.

Instead, she is focused on spending the next year raising the money on her own.

She has set up a GoEnnounce account online. But she hopes she will earn enough from her upcoming projects at next year’s Florida Strawberry Festival. Any profits will be put towards her conference fund.

As a member of FFA, Haley is not just focused on public speaking. She has been taught about plant identification and forestry, as well as floriculture and problemsolving skills.

She has also raised pigs and steers, which she sells at the festival every year.

“It’s a project for you to learn what farmers deal with in the real world,” Haley said.

“We’re trying to change the face of agriculture.”

The conference is one of the few FFA conferences she has yet to attend. During the five-day event, she will meet FFA leaders who will help her develop her public speaking skills while providing different networking opportunities.

While there, she will also meet other FFA members who are as equally dedicated to the organization.

Conference attendees will

TO DONATE

Emily Topper

Both Haley Riley’s parents were in FFA, as well as her brother. Her sister is in 4-H.

see Washington’s history, the White House and are taught responsibility by boarding with people from around the country.

“I’ve wanted to go since the sixth grade,” Haley said. “It’s so amazing meeting people who are passionate. It’s taking you out of your comfort zone.”

Haley’s parents were both members of FFA, and her father served in the military for 25 years. Her brother is a member of Tomlin’s FFA, and her sister is involved in 4-H. Much of Haley’s inspiration for her FFA involvement comes from her great-grandfather, Osborne Griffin. Griffin was an FFA member who donated to the Florida Strawberry Festival and Grower’s Association.

“I want to follow in his footsteps by giving back to people,” Haley said.

In the future, she hopes to attend the University of Florida before becoming a pediatric anesthesiologist. Her chosen career path includes 12 years of higher education, but Riley believes that FFA has given her the necessary discipline and dedication to succeed.

“I want to make a change in the world,” she said. “I believe in the future of agriculture.

It’s the base of America and a huge part of everything. FFA has truly changed my life.”

Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.

GOAL: $1,800 VISIT: GoEnnounce.com/missions/view/id/4426

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

OUR TOWN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

researching several topics including a Plant City timeline of historic events. She will also be learning archival procedures and assisting with collection storage projects in the upcoming months.

Katelyn is an incoming senior at Plant City High School. Her favorite subjects are history and social studies, and she will be president of the American Sign Language Honor Society. Katelyn is active in the National Honor Society, the Civinettes Service Club, and Youth of Life. Katelyn is planning on attending college and intends to earn her master’s degree in elementary education. She hopes to have a double major, and anticipates a degree in either history or business. Katelyn plays the violin, and she is also involved in the character building and scouting organization American Heritage Girls, local troop FL1107.

+ Meals on Wheels needs volunteers

Plant City Meals on Wheels needs volunteers to deliver meals to its clients.

The organization delivers meals Monday through Friday at lunch time, and drivers are needed for three out of the five days. Drivers will work one day

a week, and most routes take less than two hours to deliver.

Meals on Wheels office is located at 1304 E. Baker St., Suite C. Contact (813) 7549932 if you are interested or stop in from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

+ Junior gardeners leave mark

Five fifth grade junior gardeners completed their program at Jackson Elementary School.

The students are: Kelia Harrold, Tatianna Oppenheimer-Lebron, Heaven Davis, Cason Bailey and Benjamin Garcia.

This program, which is cooperative effort between Jackson Elementary and the Plant City Garden Club, was chaired by Deb Flock, the junior gardeners chairperson.

Marci Wilcox is the chairperson of the butterfly garden located at Jackson Elementary.

In an effort to leave their mark, the five students made stepping stones, which will be proudly placed in the garden for them to look back on.

HANCOCK / PAGE 1 Mr. Hancock always showed he cared. While he was with his wife a few years ago, he saw an older man on the side of the road with a flat tire. Even though it was pouring rain, Mr. Hancock got out of the car to replace the tire. He refused to accept any payment and returned to his own car soaking wet.

Luke Weromik was another friend of Mr. Hancock. He knew Mr. Hancock while they were growing up as teenagers and often watched FSU football games together.

“He was a staple in Plant City,” Weromik said. “He was a good guy with a good head on his shoulders. Everybody that knew him liked him.”

“He always had a smile on

HEROES / PAGE 1 way V, have all served their country.

LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON

When Timothy Conway’s son, Timothy Conway IV, began attending the Naval Academy, he was taught the honor code: not to lie, cheat or steal.

These values are ones that Timothy Conway IV’s father instilled at a young age.

“The honor code is basic to living in our society, we would like to think,” Timothy Conway said.

Timothy Conway also taught his son to be self-sufficient. One of the reasons that Timothy Conway IV made the decision to join the military was because he did not want his father to have to pay for his schooling. Timothy Conway IV got appointments to both West Point and the Naval Academy, eventually choosing the latter.

“I wanted to see the world,” Timothy Conway IV said of his decision to join the Naval Academy.

Timothy Conway IV graduated from Plant City High School in 1984 before he began attending the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

He graduated from the academy in 1988 before being commissioned as an ensign.

Among his assignments, Timothy Conway IV served on the USS George Washington, USS Fahrion and USS Halyburton.

Timothy Conway IV served as a branch chief at U.S. Central Command for three years before becoming the branch chief at U.S. Joint Forces Command. He retired in 2008 as a commander and currently

his face,” Emily Hancock said.

“He would strike up conversations at Wal-Mart with people he didn’t even know.”

Michael Pippin was a longtime friend of Mr. Hancock.

“Westley was always defending those that could not defend themselves,” Pippin said.

“I will forever be grateful for the impact that Westley had on our city.”

Pippin’s son liked to keep his hair longer than other boys his age. After requesting a haircut one day, Pippin took his son to Mr. Hancock’s shop.

Shortly after the haircut began, Pippin’s son became emotional. Some of the boys at his school had bullied him for having longer hair.

Pippin recalls that Mr. Hancock leaned down to the young lives in Chesapeake, Virginia with his wife, Wanda.

He has many fond memories of his service. Timothy Conway IV moved 13 times due to his job, but always found a family in the military.

“It’s an honorable profession,” Timothy Conway IV said. “It’s hard to be part of the community when moving from place to place, but it’s the people, it’s the camaraderie. [They] take care of each other.”

He said he was especially grateful for the sailors who befriended him, and the Joint Command soldiers he was able to serve with.

Although he is retired from active duty, his oldest son, Timothy Conway V, is just beginning his military career.

“He chose to follow in footsteps close to ours,” Conway IV said. “It’s kinda neat. Each of us chose our own way.”

THE THIRD GENERATION

Timothy Conway V graduated with honors from the University of Virginia this past May with degrees in commerce and Middle Eastern language and literature.

He was among the top of his class.

While at school, he served as the university’s Army ROTC cadet executive officer and chief of personnel. Conway also interned at the National Ground Intelligence Center and participated in a multitude of activities, including the Alexander Hamilton Society and Mosby’s Rangers.

“I couldn’t be prouder of his accomplishments to date,” father Timothy Conway IV said.

This summer, Timothy Conway V will go to Fort Benning in Georgia for a course in

boy’s chair and offered him some words of wisdom that Pippin never forgot: Don’t ever let anyone make you feel bad for who you are.

More than anything, Mr. Hancock loved his family.

He encouraged and motivated his two daughters, Sydney Stewart and Aubrey Hancock, to always do their best.

“He was so proud of our daughters,” Emily Hancock said. “He fiercely loved his family.”

The Hancocks’ youngest daughter, Aubrey, is a gymnast.

She is scheduled to compete at a national competition soon.

When her family asked her if she still wanted to compete, she had a simple answer: She was going to win for her dad.

Infantry Basic Officer Leadership before going to his first unit. He will serve at least four years in combat arms.

“The needs of the military always come first,” his grandfather, Timothy Conway, said.

FAMILY PRIDE

Timothy Conway is pleased his son and and grandson followed in his footsteps and dedicated their lives to their country.

“I’m extremely proud of both of them,” he said.

He wants his children and grandchildren to have health, happiness and self-satisfaction.

Timothy Conway also believes that military women and military wives are an integral part to the nation’s service.

When Timothy Conway IV was in the Navy, he was away at sea for 12 and one half years.

“It was difficult for him not being around his family,” Timothy Conway said. “But it was equally difficult for his wife. The military women and wives deserve credit.”

Due to different locations, the family reunions are somewhat hard to plan. Even so, they just enjoy spending time together.

“We pick a destination and meet there,” Pam Conway said.

The family was most recently together for the youngest Conway’s graduation from the University of Virginia.

But they won’t be apart for long before their next meeting. They’ll be heading to Bradenton for scuba diving lessons on Independence Day. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.

BABY / PAGE 1 ida Baptist Hospital elevators on the way to the labor and delivery unitWednesday, June 17.

“She’s an amazing child,” Amanda Lumsden, 36, said. “I can’t imagine what she’ll grow up to be if she conquered this.”

Addison was scheduled to be induced Thursday, June 18.

But Amanda Lumsden went into labor at around 7 a.m.

June 17. They loaded their Ford Escape with the flip-flops bumper sticker. She wasn’t worried while they were traveling from their home in Lakeland to the hospital in Plant City.

The contractions intensified on their way. The family went to the emergency department. Rachel Sandora, an emergency services technician, put Amanda Lumsden in a wheelchair. They met Jeanice Lerum, unit secretary from the labor and delivery unit, in the elevator.

The doors shut behind them.

“Things started to go into overdrive,” Amanda Lumsden said. “I said, ‘We need to go now.’”

She screamed the baby was coming. Lerum checked and saw the baby was crowning. Jeff Lumsden watched the birth of his daughter from over his wife’s shoulders.

“Somewhere between the second and third floor, we had a baby,” Amanda Lumsden said.

Lerum’s priority was that the baby was healthy.

“I just told Rachel, ‘Check her mouth,’” Lerum said. “I just wanted to hear her cry.”

They cleaned Addison’s mouth out. She cried right as the doors opened to the labor and delivery unit.

Amanda Lumsden was able to hold Addison to keep her

Amber Jurgensen

Jeff and Amanda Lumsden weren’t worried the baby was coming until they got in the elevator.

FUN FACT

Unity secretary Jeanice Lerum has helped deliver a baby in an elevator before.

She said several years ago a similar situation happened.

warm before a swarm of nurses, who had just delivered another child, ran down the hall to the elevator.

“There were a lot of yells,” Amanda Lumsden said. “‘We have a baby!’”

With the attention on Addison, Jeff Lumsden, 42, was left pushing his wife in the wheelchair.

“Everything happened as quick as lighting,” Jeff Lumsden said.

After the whirlwind birth, there was some talk of naming the newborn Ellie in honor of her birthplace. But the family stuck with Addison.

“Her life story of being born in an elevator will be good enough,” Jeff said.

Addison was born at 9:52 a.m., and weighed 4 pounds, 3 ounces, and was 18 inches long.

This is the second baby the couple has had at South Florida Baptist Hospital. The first was son Jackson. He also has a special story. He was born on December 12, 2012.

Jackson almost got to see the birth of his sister. He was at the hospital with his parents and was picked up by a family member. They passed Jeff and Amanda Lumsden as they entered the elevator.

During their three-day hospital stay, Addison became a celebrity. Nurses, doctors and even other mothers heard the story of her chaotic birth. The family was discharged from the hospital Friday, June 19, alongside one such mother, Beth Hyers. Her and her husband, Corey Hyers, gave birth to baby girl, Adina, at 9:07 p.m.

June 17. They saw the Lumsdens when they came into the labor and delivery unit.

“My labor was much longer than hers,” Beth Hyers said.

Beth Hyers was in labor for 26 hours. Amanda Lumsden was in labor for about two hours.

The Lumsdens don’t have any plans for another child.

TO DONATE

GoFundMe: GoFundMe. com/x7r6pkg A GoFundMe account has been set up for the family for any unexpected costs that they will face in the future. So far the community has donated over $19,500 to the family for their future needs.

Mr. Hancock is survived by his wife, Emily; daughters, Sydney Stewart and Aubrey Hancock; father, Alan Hancock; sisters, Christina Willis and Amy Hancock; and grandparents, Alma Louise Nichols and Bruce and Patricia Hancock.

Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com

FIREWORKS / PAGE 1 and the Florida Strawberry Festival, along with other local business sponsors, will host another Independence Day celebration for the fourth consecutive year in a row, after taking a hiatus because of the cost.

The fireworks show alone is $20,000. The total amount of the event is $30,000. The celebration ran for six consecutive years until the economic downturn caused it to be canceled in 2008.

“What’s special about the event is that it is run by businesses,” Tim Hanlon, project manager, said. “The community is what brought it back.”

This year is no exception, and coordinated collections of explosives are expected to light the sky, rivaling other Fourth of July festivities.

Despite the large price tag, the event is free. However, parking is $5 and will be available starting at 5:45 p.m.

The grounds traditionally become crowded during this night, and parking is limited on the roads around the area. Be there early and prepared.

The field events and concessions open at 6 p.m.

The annual display of coordinated explosions is not the only crowd puller. The celebration will hold a place for all the summertime favorites, including corn hole, a rock wall, face painting and balloon art.

“We definitely encourage families to come out,” Halon said.

With all these collaborating activities going on, there has to be an impressive framework of fare ready for hungry kids and parents. With this in mind, come hungry. There will be food vendors and concessions selling kettle corn, hotdogs, funnel cakes and other seasonal necessities.

At 7 p.m., after one hour of games and large amounts of balloon animals, Double Barrel Band will perform. Double Barrel Band is a local southern rock band and has performed in past years to draw the entire event together with its strumming talent.

“We rely on tradition, people know what to expect, and they enjoy it,” Halon said.

All field activities and food franchises are closed down by 8:45 p.m., and at 9:15 p.m., the fireworks show starts. If it rains, a make up will be July 5.

IF YOU GO WHEN: Gates open at 6 p.m; 20-minute firework display begins at 9:15 p.m.

Saturday, July 4 WHERE: Plant City stadium, 1810 E. Park Road DETAILS: Various activities will be available, along with live music and food vendors.

COST: $5 parking SPONSORS: Florida Strawberry Festival, Mayfair Games, Global Sports Alliance, Stingray Chevrolet, Haught Funeral Home, Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinics, Jarrett-Scott Ford, UM Catering ,Uncle Mikes Smokehouse Grill, Deese Scrubs, Plant City Times & Observer, Parkesdale Farms, Plant City Noon Rotary, Gordon Food Service, Miller Pro Sound, Toufayan Bakeries, Happy Kids Inflatables, Brewington’s Towing Service, O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Grill, W.K Meclendon Oil, Plant City Post 26, Culligan, Rossiter & Associates LLC, City of Tampa Office of Special Events, and Plant City friends of Recreation & Parks.

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

EXPANSION by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Grace Manor to expand

Plant City’s active retirement living community, Grace Manor at Hunter’s Creek, is expanding.

The new addition will be an affordable, state of the art assisted living facility, and will be built directly behind the existing 48 single-unit homes.

It has not been determined yet if the new building will be one or two stories high, but Stern is expecting that there will be between 63 and 120 new units.

New residents will have the same opportunities to use the pool and exercise units currently available at Grace Manor, and all residents will now be able to purchase a meal plan. Although some rooms in the assisted living facility will have a kitchenette, most residents can enjoy their meals in the large, open dining area.

The new building will have a living area of a similar size.

“It’s the opportunity to enjoy life without the headaches of home ownership,” said Richard Hargrove, who has been the property manager for two years.

The existing units each have full appliances and an attached garage. Hargrove described the current homes as maintenance-free, independent living. Residents of Grace Manor pay $1,100 dollars per month for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit. This price

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

JUNE 12

DANGEROUS COMBINATION

1800 block of Wilkins Court.

Residential burglary. Complainant reported that 20 bottles of liquor, a .22 caliber Derringer pistol and a .22 caliber rifle were stolen from the home.

Emily Topper

The new assisted living facility will be built on the open area of land directly behind the existing homes. includes water, garbage and sewer fees. Residents also have access to the community’s pool, exercise facility and nearby lake.

Doug Stern is the overseer of the project, and a construction manager for Landmark Civil Services.

“What we’re trying to do in Plant City is create that senior campus environment,” Stern said. “This will enhance the whole property.”

According to Stern, this addition is a huge asset to Plant City.

“This certainly will enhance opportunities for seniors in Hillsborough County to come and receive the care they

need,” Stern said.

It is expected that the new assisted living facility will be completed in the first or second quarter of 2016. In the meantime, additions are also being made to the current single-unit homes at Grace Manor.

“The existing community will be gated,” Hargrove said.

“Hopefully within the next 30 days.”

Rent and final details regarding the new facility will become available as the final blueprint for the building is complete.

Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.

YOU’VE GOT MAIL

1400 block of Plantation Circle. Mail theft. Complainant reported that two packages, valued at a total of $90, had been stolen from the mail bin at the front of the complex.

FISHIN’ FIENDS

1100 block of North Shannon Avenue. Theft. Complainant reported that three fishing rods had been stolen from the front of his home. The stolen items were two Shimano spinning rods and one St. Croix rod, just over 7 feet long. The total value of the stolen goods was $420.

GRAB THAT GNOME

2800 block of Thonotosassa Road. Theft. Officer

WEST ORANGE

CORNER

responded to a report of a stolen garden gnome.

JUNE 13

IS SOMEONE JEALOUS?

2000 block of South Frontage Road. Criminal mischief. Officer responded to complainant’s report that his 2015 Chevrolet Camaro sports car had been keyed and scratched.

BIKE BANDIT

3400 block of Silver Meadow Way. Bike theft. Complainant responded that a blue, 26-inch men’s bicycle had been stolen overnight.

JUNE 14

ALMOST GOT AWAY

2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Retail theft.

Officers responded to this business in reference to its loss prevention specialists holding a theft suspect in custody. The suspect was arrested.

JUNE 16 APPLE FANATIC

3200 block of Alcott Avenue. Vehicle burglary.

Complain-

ant reported that their Apple iPhone 5c was stolen from the vehicle it was left in.

UNDER PRESSURE

100 block of Oakbrook Lane.

Theft. Officers responded to report that an unknown person had stolen a Troy-Built pressure washer from the complainant’s property.

ALL THAT FOR NOTHING?

3400 block of Silver Meadow Way. Vehicle burglary. Officers responded to report of vehicle burglary. Complainant stated that the plastic window liner of their vehicle was cut, but that nothing was stolen from the inside.

BRAND-NAME BURGLAR

3800 block of Crystal Dew Street. Vehicle burglary. Complainant reported that, after leaving her vehicle unlocked overnight, the Coach purse she left inside had been stolen. After officers responded to her residence, the complainant signed a waiver of prosecution.

BEATING THE HEAT

1900 block of North Maryland Avenue. Grand theft.

Officer met with complainant, who said that an air conditioning unit had been stolen.

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

GARDENING by Devon Higginbotham | Florida Native Plant Society

The plight of the bumblebee Donna Bollenbach

Leafcutter bees punch circular holes out of leaves to make their nests out of.

TYPES OF NATIVE BEES SWEAT | They are attracted to the salt in your sweat.

Some are so tiny they look like ants with wings.

LEAFCUTTER | The female leafcutter bee cuts a near perfect circular piece out of your leaves or petals to line her nest. You might attribute the hole, the size of a blueberry, to a hungry caterpillar.

PLASTERER | Also know as yellow-faced bees, plasterers have a unique method of lining their brood cells with a completely waterproof cellophane-like material secreted from their gland, hence their name.

They are often mistaken for wasps.

MINING | They are known for their sometimes conspicuous mounds of dirt they excavate when building their nests.

We were sitting on the porch when the bee zipped by, buzzing loudly. It first passed me then circled to inspect the young girl beside me.

“Eeeeeek!” She screamed as she catapulted herself off the rocker and ran around wildly.

“It’s just a bee checking you out,” I said.

But she wasn’t hearing any of it. She continued to flail her arms. “It’s trying to sting me,” she cried.

What have bees done to instill such fear?

I was stung once, as a child, when I accidentally stepped on one. Growing up in Miami, shoes were optional and usually ignored.

Saving the bees has been the buzz out of the Obama administration this past month. But did you know that honey bees are a European import, and long before they were brought to this country our native pollinators were hard at work making sure plants were pollinated and produced fruit? The massive agricultural projects of the 1800s and 1900s necessitated enormous colonies of honey bees, and now they are suffering from various maladies brought on by decades of pesticides and virus.

European honey bees are

Often the showiest plants are not the ones the bees are looking for.

The lowly Spanish needle, which is the bane of most gardeners, is instrumental in Florida’s ecology. Even the tiny fog fruit is sought after, whereas some exotics may be totally unvisited by bees.

Janet Bowers

A bee visits a mangrove. very social colonizers. But most of our native bees are solitary ground dwellers.

Some live in wood and hollow stems.

The ground dwellers are typically the females building nests for their eggs. Since the males don’t have nests to go home to they find a branch or flower head to congregate on and sometimes sleeping in clusters. Though at night

Locally Owned by Ed Verner, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes

SEND US YOUR NEWS

&RS\ULJKW 3ODQW &LW\ 0HGLD //& $OO 5LJKWV 5HVHUYHG

• Provide habitat by leaving bare, sandy areas where ground dwellers can build nests. Leave dried, hollow stems.

NATIVE PLANTS BEES LIKE

TO ADVERTISE

110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 704-6850 www.PlantCityObserver.com

• Eliminate pesticides.

• Provide water sources and plenty of native plants that produce the nectar and pollen bees are seeking.

Plant City Times & Observer 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.

HOW TO ATTRACT NATIVE BEES TO YOUR YARD

Call Veronica Prostko, (813) 716-0007.

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

To contact us, send your information via: Email: Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com.

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

they cling together, during the day they are fierce adversaries dutifully defending their floral territories.

Bumblebees are the only social, colonizer bees native to North America. They are familiar to most, with their large, fuzzy black-and-yellow striped bodies lumbering from flower to flower. With their loud buzzing, they are often heard before they are

CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Fridays.

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.

seen. Flowers droop when they land leaving them clutching on upside down.

Although they are honey bees, they only produce enough to support their colony.

Join the Suncoast chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society at SuncoastNPS.org.

The chapter meets every third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Seffner Extension Service office.

In my yard, the thryallus blooms all summer but I never see bees visit it, whereas, my Simpson stopper is covered with bees when in bloom in the spring.

Plant native plants that bloom at different times of the year to keep something always available. Try these: Blanket flower, dune sunflower, Simpson stopper, fire brush, Spanish needle, turkey tangle fog fruit, spotted bee balm.

Plant City Times &

Observer

General Manager/Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com General Manager/Advertising / Stacey Hudson, shudson@tampabay.com Managing Editor / Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writers / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com; Emily Topper, etopper@ PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Executive / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@PlantCityObserver.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

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

LEAVING ON A JET PLANE by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

rains down inAfrica by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Brody Wright

Jackson D’Auginon and Kanaan Whiteis Emely Caballero

Children’s Pastor Joe Carter is also known as Bro Joe II

Allen Hancock and Ryan Kiefer

Off the Map

Shiloh Baptist Church began vacation Bible school Sunday, June 21. This year’s Ashlyn Barror and Hailey Papademetriou

Campers get wild Hopewell Baptist Church hosted its first day of vacation Bible school Monday, June 15.

With a theme based on Mt. Kilimanjaro, campers enjoyed different indoor and outdoor activities while learning Bible lessons. The camp director was Arienne Middlebrooks.

camp was travel-themed. The camp was for children from the age 2 through 11.

Evie identified stuffed animals that would be found in the wild.

Abby Vance and Shelby Harrell

Each preschooler got a stuffed animal to hold while they learned about monkeys, giraffes and more.

VBS counselors Lorena Lopez and Rachel Wingate

Right: At “Camp Kilimanjaro,” the first lesson for campers was about listening.

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

mad scientists by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Colby Brewington and friends took a break from building to show off their best scientist poses.

Experimenting in summer Kids of all ages had a blast Tuesday, June 16, at Camp Invention at the Trinkle Center.

The camp is based on sci-

Robert Santiago explained his invention to one of his counselors.

ence, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Campers created their own inventions, including shields

Jackson Peterson examines what he needs to adjust on his fishing contraption.

and fishing materials, in addition to learning about different developments in the respective fields.

Abigail Spivey had a blast drawing designs for future inventions.

HEROES AND VILLAINS by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Students battle at superhero trivia

This week’s Cryptoquiz answers

$UNDEXWOD 6WXWWHU -DFN -HIIHUVRQ

*DEULHO¶V )LUH 'DUWK 9DGHU -DPHV (DUO -RQHV

This week’s Sudoku answers

Comic book fanatics enjoyed Superhero Trivia at Bruton Memorial Library Tuesday, June 16.

Attendees played trivia games while they made their own superhero masks and cuffs. The afternoon started with matching superhero characters to their respective movies and ended with superhero “Jeopardy.”

This week’s Crossword answers

Brianna Ford and Cailin Ford Alexander Lopez posed with his new superhero gear.

Deven Otero wore his Minecraft mask during trivia.

2015

Jesus Aldama played on the “Heroes” team during trivia.

Right: Alexander Lopez wore his favorite superhero shirt and made cuffs with lightning bolts.

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

HEAR ME ROAR by Abby Baker | Staff Intern

Durant High student nominated Leo of the Year When Daisy Alvarez heard the story of a 3-year-old with eye cancer, she knew she had to help. As a member of the Leo service club, Alvarez led the group of Leos to raise $2,800 for him. Because of her hard work, she has been nominated as Leo of the Year by the Lions Club, the Leo Club’s adult counterpart.

Nominees are selected based on merit and contributions to their community, as well as to the world.

“Everything the club does is for a good purpose,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez does not just provide aid for those in her immediate range, she reaches out across the globe. She has collected and prepared countless eyeglasses to donate to individuals who cannot afford to correct their vision. Many are shipped to developing nations.

While Alvarez has managed to reach out to those in need, she also dedicates her time (with a full school schedule and part-time job) to perform in parades and community events as the clown boss for the Plant City Clown Troupe.

Alvarez is the leader of the troupe. She arranges hospital visits to children, collects tickets for Strawberry Festival events, and paints faces at fundraisers and public events.

“It doesn’t matter who you are, we are all together as part of this diverse club,” Alvarez said.

David Vick, chairman of the Lions Club and sponsor of the troupe recognizes Daisy’s hard work and natural leadership.

“I didn’t just choose Daisy,” Vick said. “Daisy picked me, and the kids picked her.”

Alvarez did not rise to such an impressive place easily. She worked in the fields with her family, traveling from Florida to

growing business by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

LOCATIONS Although there are no immediate plans for Fitlife Foods to have a storefront in Plant City, there are six storefronts in the Tampa Bay area and two pop shops.

STORES BRANDON 2946 Providence Lakes Blvd., Brandon CARROLLWOOD 14407 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa COUNTRYSIDE 2454 N. McMullen Booth Road, #305, Clearwater SOUTH TAMPA 1902-B S. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa 504 S. Howard Ave., Tampa David Osterweil

The center in Plant City will serve as what Osterweil calls a “big, fresh, made-from-scratch kitchen.”

Courtesy photo

Daisy Alvarez was the boss clown for the Durant Leo’s Clown Troupe.

A FEW OF DAISY’S FAVORITE THINGS • She enjoys helping her community grow through events and fundraising.

• She thinks it’s awesome to see people smile, especially children.

• She loves the diversity of the Leos.

New York along with the crops.

English was not her first language. She had to learn English from an older sibling.

“I definitely think my background has made me stronger,” Alvarez said.

At a young age, Alvarez developed rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic disease that causes joint swelling and deformity.

Because of her disease, her family settled in Hillsborough County to seek treatment at All Children’s Hospital.

“I’ve had it since I was five,” Alvarez said. “I completely stopped walking, so I missed all of first grade.”

Despite challenges, Alvarez prevailed and plans to stay active in the club as she attends a technical school for massage therapy in the fall.

Fitlife Foods attracted to thriving P.C.industries David Osterweil, the CEO of Fitlife Foods, is bringing his business to Plant City in the form of a culinary center.

Plant City is growing, and business owners in neighboring cities have caught on, including David Osterweil, the founder and CEO of Fitlife Foods, a Florida-based company that focuses on healthy eating without the hassle.

The company was created in 2011, after Osterweil noticed the difficulties of trying to follow weight-loss recommendations and eat flavorful food at the same time.

“We wanted to do something that really served a purpose and solved a problem,” Osterweil said.

Now, Fitlife Foods will be opening a culinary distribution center in Plant City. The company creates prepared meals for those who are trying to lose weight. It puts emphasis on healthy food that is also savory. Fitlife Foods creates these meals and distributes them across Florida, in ad-

dition to labeling the food so customers know exactly what they’re eating.

The Plant City location on County Line Road, will serve as what Osterweil calls a “big, fresh, made-from-scratch kitchen.” It will be the headquarters where many of Fitlife Food’s prepared meals are made before being sent out to the company’s kiosks and restaurants.

For Osterweil, Plant City was the perfect thriving community for such a center.

“Plant City is just a great community,” Osterweil said.

“It’s important for us to find the right area that has the blend of transportation and talent for this business. It was time for us to move to a firstclass facility that we can really grow into.”

Plant City’s agricultural community is also a benefit to Fitlife. Osterweil plans to use

farmers within the city to use local ingredients whenever possible.

City Manager Mike Herr believes that this new center could also create the possibility for further expansion in Plant City.

“Considering the impact that agricultural businesses have on our economy, a culinary center can lead to an agricultural culinary operation in our city,” Herr said.

Although there are no current plans for a Fitlife restaurant or kiosk in Plant City, Osterweil hasn’t ruled out the idea of having a location near his distribution center.

For now, Osterweil is focused on creating meals that are both creative and healthy.

“We’re trying to create stories with our food,” Osterweil said.

It is expected that the distribution center will create 100 new jobs in Plant City over two years.

More information about Fitlife Foods can be found on the company’s website, at EatFitLifeFoods.com.

ST. PETERSBURG 3047 4th St. N., St. Petersburg POP SHOP/KIOSKS Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel Tampa General Hospital

WHAT’S ON THE MENU?

Fitlife has prepared meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Here are some of the foods the company will be making in Plant City: Fit Chicken Pad Thai Feeling Good Chicken Tenders Sicilian Chicken Meatballs Mama’s Turkey Meatloaf Tampa Bay BBQ Beef with Mac N’ Cheese (top seller) Chicken Tacos Mexican Veggie Melt Chicken Pesto Tortellini Chicken Enchilada Bake Jamaican Pork Tenderloin Asada Steak Almond Apple Flat Wrap Tuna Power Pack Red Pepper Hummus Bowl Chili Lime Peanut Butter Oat Cruch

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

summer starter by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Tia Hansen, Dara Shea, Gabby Hansen, Irene Hansel and Alexis Hill had a blast with their friends at the kick-off party.

First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist kicks off its VBS Summer started with a bang at First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church Saturday, June 6. Church families and friends of all ages celebrated the start of vacation Bible school with food, games and fun, including inatables, face paint and a water balloon ďŹ ght.

Right: Aviva Baker, Kari Shepherd and Alyssa Shepherd

Brenda Myers with granddaughter Ariana Owens

Jennifer Brown and Hanslie Brown

CUTESTCRITTER

B

uster was a little puppy who could not walk. His brother, Portuguese water dog Oliver, patiently encouraged him. He is as sweet as he is adorable.

Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center have partnered to present a weekly Cutest Critter Contest. Entering is simple: Just submit a highresolution photo (200 dpi or better) and a sentence or two about why your pet is the cutest. Include your name and contact information.

Winners will be showcased in the Plant City Times & Observer and will receive a free bag of dental chews to be picked up at Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center.

Submit your entries to Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@ plantcityobserver.com; subject line: Cutest Critter.

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

OBSERVER

OBITUARIES Mckaylee Nicole Carlisle

Mckaylee Nicole Carlisle, 3, died June 17, 2015 in Plant City.

She is survived by her mother, Natalie Kline; father, Michael Carlisle (Kayla); sister, Paizly; grandparents, Tammy Sullivan, Michael Carlisle, Tracy Murphy, Harold Kline, and Danny and Tammy Stringer; greatgrandparents, Margaret and Wolfgang Plies, Oscar and Betty Sullivan, and Irene Lee; uncles, John Carlisle and John Stankovics; and godfather, Perry Lane.

A visitation was held Tuesday, June 23, at Countryside Baptist Church in Dover.

Online condolences may be made atWellsMemorial.com.

Westley Wayne Hancock

Westley Wayne Hancock, 41, of Plant City, died June 16, 2015 at his home.

A native of Tampa, Hancock was the son of Alan and Anita Nichols Hancock. He was the husband of Emily Haught Hancock.

He is survived by his loving wife, Emily; father, Alan; daughters, Sydney Stewart and Aubrey Hancock; sisters, Christina Willis and Amy Hancock; grandparents, Bruce and Patricia Hancock, and Alma Louise Nichols. He was preceded in death by his mother, Anita Hancock.

He was a member of St. Clement Catholic Church, worked at Bruce’s Barber Shop, was a participant in the chamber of commerce, a player/coach in softball and was a huge sports fan, especially the Florida State Seminoles.

Vsitation was held Friday, June 19 at Haught Funeral Home. A funeral service was held Saturday, June 20 at St. Clement Catholic Church.

Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Marie B. Harrell

Marie B. Harrell, 85, of Plant City, died June 19, 2015 surrounded by her family.

She was born in Boaz, Alabama and was dedicated to a life of learning. As a member of University of South Florida’s charter class, she earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in science and education. For more than 30 years, she fostered her passion for educating as a Brandon High School chemistry and biology teacher. Outside of her classroom, she cultivated her garden, incredible cooking talents, and love of reading and travel. Her greatest joy and legacy was her family.

She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Grady Harrell; children, Tony Harrell (Debbie), of Plant City, Lucretia Stolzman (John), of Largo, Jerry Harrell, of Plant City, Dean Harrell (Deb-

bie), of Plant City, and Becky Buckingham (Keith), of Plant City; sister, Ann Copeland (Randall), of Plant City; 16 grandchildren; and 16 greatgrandchildren who lovingly called her “Gamby.”

A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Plant City.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., Plant City, 33563 and/or LifePath Hospice, 12470 Telecom Drive, Suite 300 West, Temple Terrace, Florida 33637.

Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneralHome.com.

Perry Elliot Johnson

Perry Elliot Johnson, 81, of High Springs, Florida, and formerly of Plant City, died June 5, 2015 in Gainesville.

He was a 1951 graduate of Plant City High School and a 1955 graduate of the University of Florida, where he was a member of the Gators football team. He was a teacher, real estate broker and appraiser for many years, but his real love was thoroughbred horses which he owned, raised and trained with his wife for over 45 years.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Dorothy; two sons, Greg Johnson (Nancy), of North Carolina and Sean Dale Johnson (Judy), of Englewood; daughter, Debby Keene (LaRoyce), of Plant City; two stepchildren and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Alec and Beulah Johnson; brother John “Jack” Johnson; sisters Virginia Blanton, Edith Flick and Betty Johnson.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 11, at Sharon Baptist Church, 3506 Young Road, Plant City.

Jose Rodriguez Lopez

Jose Rodriguez Lopez, 56, of Dover, died Saturday, June 20, 2015 at his home.

A native of Tabasco, Mexico, he was the son of Andres Rodriguez Gutierrez and Amelia Lopez Juarez.

He is survived by his wife, Alicia Jeronimo de la Cruz; children, Alexander Rodriguez Jeronimo, Jose Andres Rodriguez Alejandro and Fabian Rodriguez Alejandro; and one grandchild.

The family received friends Wednesday, June 25, at Haught Funeral Home.

A funeral service followed.

Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

James Roy Martin

James Roy Martin, 76, of Dover, died June 15, 2015.

He was retired from CSX Railroad. He was an avid

horseman who raced standardbred horses and a member of Palms Community Church in Brandon.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years Judith; sons, James “Chip” Roy Martin Jr. (Renita), Craig Martin and Chris Martin; daughter, Susan Brown (Kevin); grandsons, Brett Brown, Tyler Brown, and Nicholas Martin; granddaughters, Amanda Sepulvado, Ashley Mossbarger (Shawn), Allison Coco (Jamie), Melissa Martin, Brittany Martin, and Taylor Martin; and great-grandchildren, Taylor Mossbarger, S.J. Mossbarger, Logan Brown, Liam Coco, Elly Coco, Livy Sepulvado, Charlie Sepulvado, and Joshua Early.

A memorial service was held Friday, June 19, at Palms Community Church. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneralHome. com.

Jeannine Florence Parr

Jeannine Florence Parr, 85, of Oak Ridge, died Saturday, June 13, 2015 at the Methodist Medical Center.

She was born August 21, 1929 in Nashua, New Hampshire to William and Roseanna Gaudreau Dumas.

Mrs. Parr was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Oak Ridge and had been very active with the Catholic Women’s Association in Florida. She was an avid reader, enjoyed knitting and needlework, and traveling, especially to holy places.

She is survived by children, Michael Dobens (Noreen), of New Hampshire, Lawrence Dobens (Asami), of New York, Peter Dobens (Lynda), of New Hampshire, and Daniel Parr, of New Hampshire; stepchildren, Susan Cole Kelly, of Boston, Debra Murphy, of Columbia, South Carolina, Bonnie Mihealsick (Pat), of Tennessee, Lauren LeBrun (Bob), of New Hampshire, and David Parr (Lorraine), of New Hampshire; former daughter-in-law, Lisa Parr, of New Hampshire; sister, Rachel Laquerre (Roger), of New Hampshire; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, two sisters and her husband, Albert Michael Parr, in 2001.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 3, at St. Mary’s in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Her burial will take place at Bushnell National Cemetery at 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday, July 7.

The family asks that any memorials be made in her name to the American Heart Association or to the American Cancer Society. Weatherford Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences can be made at WeatherfordMortuary.com.

Sports

THURSDAY, JUNE 26, 2015

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

ƃ @3 Ƅ ƚ PLANT CITY LITTLE LEAGUE

Justin Kline Staff Writer There’s a buzz in the air.

And it’s not from the cicadas on a scorching summer night during a Plant City baseball game.

It’s from the kids who woke up in the morning to see “An All-Star lives here” signs in their front yards. It’s from the parents who get to brag on their kids a little more than usual. It’s from the coaches who can’t wait to face their greatest challenges of the season.

The Winter Strawberry Capital of the World is hyped for the Plant City Little League’s All-Star season.

Whether you find yourself joining the crowd at Mike Sansone Park for that home-

field advantage, or traveling to North Lakeland or Auburndale to give your favorite team some much-needed support on the road, it always helps to be prepared. The Plant City Times & Observer has got your back with this special Sports section.

In this issue, you’ll learn the ins and outs of each All-Star team that’s currently playing (or will be playing soon) and know who’s going to take the field for your favorite teams.

As educational as this will be for readers, the main goal is to celebrate the best of the best, Plant City’s cream of the crop, on a job well done in the 2015 regular season.

Congratulations, All-Stars, and we wish you the best of luck!

9-10

)Ƅ Ƅ Y)Z If head coach Chris Smith had to pick any on strength for his 9-10 All-Stars B team it would be the boys’ physical strength.

“We’ve got some big kids that can really drive the ball into the outfield,” Smith says.

The run support a pitching staff can get from that kind of offense is always helpful, but especially so for this team: With fewer pitchers than most teams, and the need to abide by All-Star tournament rules, the B team will have to get creative on the mound.

“We’ve got only six or seven pitchers total, so we’re gonna have to really count on the top guys to throw strikes,” Smith says. “When you get into a tournament, especially if you get into the losers’ bracket and play every day, there’s a lot of pitch count rules and regulations. If a kid throws more than 35 pitches, he’s got to rest for two games. We don’t have a lot of depth, but we have quality guys out there.”

SCHEDULE: Friday, June 26, if necessary (with loss); Saturday, June 27, if necessary (with win). Championship game Monday, June 29.

9-10

)Ƅ Ƅ YƃZ The 9-10 A roster should look familiar to many Plant City Times & Observer readers, as it boasts more Athletes of the Week than any team but the 11-12 All-Stars.

There isn’t much that this squad can’t do, but head coach Roy Palmer says that pitching is his team’s strongest attribute.

That’s fitting, especially considering that one player (Blaine Rowland) threw a perfect game this season.

“The team’s very strong,” Palmer says.

“We’re deep in pitching, which is huge in tournament play. We’re strong in all positions and have quite a few big bats.

There isn’t really a weak link from 11-12.

All the boys have a role they can fill, and do it well. At any point in time, any of these boys could have a breakout tournament. They’re all equally strong.”

SCHEDULE: Friday, June 26, if necessary (with loss); Saturday, June 27, (with win). Championship game Monday, June 29.

ROSTER

Wyatt Fordham, P/U Ethan Pues, SS Anthony Lugo, 2B Ray Cowen, CF Blaine Rowland, P/C Kaden Palmer, 1B Carver Wineinger, RF Colby Brewington, LF Deven Gonzalez, 2B Adan Longoria, P Alex Machado, C Anthony Palestrini, 3B Head coach: Roy Palmer

ROSTER

Charles Watson, CF Andrew Smith, SS Trenten Herring, CF Levi Jordan, 2B Andrew Martin, RF Austin Trimble, C Taylor Teeden, LF Gavyn Dean, P Tanner Rollyson, 1B Wellington Hehn, 3B Lane Hicks, C Arturo Sierra Jr., LF Jaxson Peacock, 2B Head coach: Chris Smith

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

10-11

)Ƅ Ƅ While most of the Plant City All-Star teams rave about their hitting and defense, the 10-11 All-Stars are most proud of their ability to make opposing teams do none of those things.

Head coach Jeff Conyers has a pitching-heavy squad this year, with more than a handful of great arms to choose from. Of course, the team can also hit, field and run well, but Conyers is most excited to see what his hurlers can do.

“I’ve got six quality pitchers,” Conyers says.

“I think we’ve got some good bats on the team.

Our defense is solid, but I think our best attribute is our pitching.”

With that in mind, an All-Star lineup with several former Plant City Times & Observer Athletes of the Week certainly looks like a contender from the get-go.

ROSTER

Jace Stines, SS Rhet Conyers, LF Jamie Brown, 1B Carson Simpson, LF Josh Herring, SP Josh Cruz, RF Eddie Cruz, CF Hunter Smith, 2B Blake Tyson, CF Kaden Mizell, RF Ty Gould, 3B Jacob Deal, C

Head coach: Jeff Conyers

SCHEDULE: The tournament championship game will be held Saturday,

June 27, at 9 a.m., in north Lakeland. Check PlantCityObserver.com for updates.

UTILITY PLAYERS

UTILITY PLAYERS

9-10

3 Ƅ Head coach Christina Dovale’s All-Star squad got into their tournament action earlier than most teams, but with plenty of confidence.

Although Dovale has been coaching Little League for the last three years, this is her first time coaching an All-Star team. From the sound of it, she’s gotten to work with a strong, talented lineup.

“Our strength is our hitting,” Dovale says. “We have some really powerful hitters. We have as many as seven pitchers, as many as four catchers, and we’re pretty solid as far as defense goes.

Extremely smart baserunners. A very aggressive team. Any one of these girls could be MVP. I really have some outstanding players. We have a lot of 10 year olds that are pretty outstanding.”

ROSTER

Kaylee Bowers, 2B Amaya Diaz, C Alexa Tinney, U Emma Chancey, RF Kaden Hall, CF Natalee Whitman, U Kelsie Culberth, P Amarri Durant, SS Ginger Hernandez, 1B Michiaiah Hogan, U Brooke Tyler, U Amy Bak, LF Kyla Futch, 3B Head coach: Christina Dovale

SCHEDULE: The district championship game was held Thursday, June 25, at Mike Sansone Park; check PlantCityObserver.com for results.

11-12

)Ƅ Ƅ Another Athlete of the Week-heavy team, the 11-12 All-Stars looked good heading into tournament play.

“I think, this year, we’ve really got some kids that can hit,” head coach Danny Coton says. “And they can move around the bases. I think our prospects are real good this year.

“These guys, for the most part, they’ve been playing together since they were 5, 6 years old. They get along well, and they play well together.

“They’re fast, they can hit, and you’ve got to have that to score runs. Every one of these guys is great defensively. Pitching looks good — our number one pitcher is K.J. (Johnson).

He’s really got his control this year. He’s always been big and strong, but now he’s big and strong with a lot of control.”

SCHEDULE: Friday, July 3.

Championship game could be held as early as Monday, July 6. All games will be played at Mike Sansone Park.

10-11

3 Ƅ Because of rain, first-year head coach Drulene Wright hasn’t been able to practice with her All-Stars as much as she would have liked. But they’ll have plenty of time, as these girls don’t have to play until mid-July.

But that means they’ll be jumping right into the state tournament, as the only team in its district and section.

Fortunately, Wright knows that she’s working with a great team and has already seen enough potential in these girls to be excited for next month’s action. Until then she plans to make sure each member of her squad will be confident and ready for anything when that time comes.

“What I told the kids was to bring each individual to their full potential and advance from where they are now,” Wright says. “The big thing we’re probably going to work on is our hitting — we can’t win without scoring runs. I would say it’s our strongest point so far, from our first practice. Defense — we’re going to be working on that a little bit.”

ROSTER

Rachel Arnold, P Katlyn Teague, 3B Shelby Jacobsen, 1B Jamie Johnson, C Nevaeh Brown, 2B Brittany Mercedes, LF Emily Little, SS Lauryn Tyler, CF Lauryn White, RF Brooke Wilson, U (not pictured) Head coach: Drulene Wright

SCHEDULE: State tournament schedule information will be posted on PlantCityObserver. com when it is available.

ROSTER

Max Ness, C/3B Jackson Knotts, CF Logan Van Fossen, LF Cade Denhoff, C Tre’ Ragan, P Brent Coton, 2B Jacob Fuentes, LF KJ Johnson, 1B Jaden Bendorf, 3B Austin Jones, 1B/P Christian Bisono, OF Brayden Crews, SS Ryan Robinson, LF Head coach: Danny Coton

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

SENIORS

)Ć„ Ć„ Seniors head coach Jeff Jacobsen has a long track record of getting his Little League teams on deep postseason runs, and his latest venture looks to be business as usual.

The team is going to work to improve its hitting over the course of the postseason and also work on drills replicating speciďŹ c situations.

But Jacobsen says that the rest of the things that make teams successful are present right now. “Right now, our strengths are probably going to be our pitching and our defense,â€? Jacobsen says. “I’ve got four, maybe ďŹ ve, that are solid pitchers.â€?

This seniors team is fairly young, but not without experience and chemistry. Jacobsen is hoping that that will not only help the team immediately, but also in the next few years as much of the core remains the same. “Eight players on this team are returning.

We’re always looking to win, but we’re a young team looking to get more experience — more positive experience — under our belt.�

ROSTER

Lance Young, CF/3B Joe Jacobsen, OF/P Jeren Bendorf, OF/2B Ty Young, 2B/OF Hunter Womble, C/OF Chrischen Knotts, P/C/SS Eduardo Lucas, P/1B Logan Dean, 3B/OF Evan McMichael, 2B/3B/1B Austin Farmer, SS/P/C Gabriel Ortiz, 3B Hunter Carlisle, P/IF/ OF (not pictured) Adam Givens, SS/P/C (not pictured) Head Coach: Jeff Jacobsen

SCHEDULE: The Seniors team started play Wednesday, and the champion-

ship game is scheduled as a Saturday doubleheader with a Sunday game in the works if necessary. For results, visit PlantCityObserver.com.

JUNIORS

)Ć„ Ć„ Fifteen-year PCLL veteran Ron Luscko is coaching the Juniors All-Star team this year and says that this team is as versatile as any out there. “We’re gonna have a great defense,â€? Luscko says. “These kids, I could put them in the inďŹ eld, outďŹ eld, anywhere on the ďŹ eld, and I’d be conďŹ dent that they’d go out there and give 100%. The kids are happy to be out here.â€?

If he had to pick one top attribute for the team, it would be the pitching. As the majority of the team has pitching experience, these boys should have no problem working with the tournament’s pitch count rules and mandatory rest periods. “We’ve got a lot of pitching,� Luscko says. “We’re deep in pitching, so I don’t think we’ll have a problem — hopefully. Out of 13 kids, I bet you we have at least 10 that can pitch.

There’s Reed Tyler, and Tyler Dowdy is extremely strong. We have plenty of middle relief with Alex Rodriguez, Nick Luscko, Landon Scudder — just about anybody, I could put out there on the mound.�

ROSTER

Chase English, C Jose Machado, 2B Brent May, CF Nick Luscko, 2B Dusty Slagill, C Michael Coton, 3B Mitchell Jones, RF Reed Tyler, SS Chase Hubble, 1B Landon Scudder, LF Tyler Dowdy, SP Alex Rodriguez, SS Brantley Hall, C (not pictured) Head Coach: Ron Luscko

SCHEDULE: Thursday,

July 2, at Auburndale Lake Myrtle Complex is start date. Sunday, July 5, is championship game.

0 Ć„ g ! g y

Why coaches are happy to be here

MAJORS

3 Ć„

Because the Majors district consists of just two teams, head coach James Swinson’s AllStars will compete in a best-of-three series for the crown. The winner will advance to sectionals.

This team, the coaches say, possesses both speed and power on offense, the kind of combination that can take any team far. And Swinson says that these girls have everything it takes to do well in the district tournament and, hopefully, beyond. “I think we’re a well-rounded team this year,â€? Swinson says. “We’ve got very solid pitching, we should be good defensively and all the girls can hit very well. They can all hit and bunt when needed. I think, overall, it’s just a good group of girls. They seem to be jelling together as a team. We preach team ďŹ rst, and they seem to be adapting to that. I have conďŹ dence in all of them.â€?

ROSTER

Regan Messick, CF Olivia Whitman, 2B Carley Cotnoir, LF Hannah Morris, RF Kayla Swinson, P Phoenix Mattair, C Lacey Hicks, SS Stephanie Bowers, 1B Lauren Ray, RF Alyssa Grimes, 3B (not pictured) Kelli McAvoy, LF (not pictured) Head coach: James Swinson GAMES: 9 a.m., 11 a.m. Saturday, June 27; Sunday, June 28 (if necessary). All games will be played at Mike Sansone Park.

Who wouldn’t be happy on Florida’s biggest stage to wake up in the mornis on her mind just as ing and ďŹ nd out that they much as everything else made an All-Star team? that comes with postseaI can’t think of anyone son play. in the system who doesn’t “It’s pretty cool that, in enjoy being right here, my ďŹ rst year, we’re playright now and playing for ing in the state tournasomething beyond the ment,â€? Wright says. “And city championship. having fun, and Every Plant City bringing girls to Little League Alltheir full potential Star I’ve talked to is also going to be has been in a good great.â€? mood lately and For the coaches couldn’t wait to get who have been on out there and play. this stage before, Many of the All-Star season JUSTIN athletes are lookhas several differKLINE ing forward to ent meanings. the same things: In some cases, winning, playing well, this will be the last hurhaving fun and being rah for players’ Little with their friends. What League careers before I didn’t know right away, they have to move on. and what I wanted to The chance to help these learn, was how our loplayers end their PCLL cal All-Star coaches feel careers on a high note is about the postseason. So a driving force for some, I asked many of them for like Majors softball coach their thoughts on All-Star James Swinson. season and got a variety “This year, knowing of responses. that the 12-year-old girls Several of the coaches — this is their last Little are running All-Star League year,â€? Swinson teams for the ďŹ rst time says. “They have a and are looking forward chance to do something to seeing how far they special at this age group can go with their squads. that’s different than “Just to watch these younger kids. They’re girls have fun, and watch playing for a state title them go out with everyand could go on to the thing they have and come Southeast region World out with a win,â€? 9-10 Series. Watching these softball coach Christina girls throughout the year, Dovale says. and knowing this is their New softball coach last year in Little League, Drulene Wright is already it’s special for me.â€? going straight to states, Some coaches, like and the chance to get Seniors baseball coach that ďŹ rst postseason win Jeff Jacobsen, are partly

driven by nostalgia.

Jacobsen, for example, is a Plant City native who grew up on the same ďŹ elds that his players are currently playing on, and coaching around All-Star time brings back fond memories of his childhood. “It’s just being with the kids out here,â€? Jacobsen says. “These are the kids that are playing ball in their extra time, in the heat of the day in the summertime. It really brings back memories of the ‘Boys of Summer.’â€?

And then there are the coaches who love the game so much any opportunity to play under a different set of rules is welcome. One such coach is Jeff Conyers, of 10-11 baseball, who says that playing under postseason rules is a great way to test himself as a manager. “What I like most is that it’s a true form of baseball,� Conyers says. “You bat nine and you have to stay on top of your subbing. There’s different rules that apply to tournament play, so that’s what I look forward to most. It’s a challenge for the kids, but it challenges me as well.�

These coaches may not be seen bouncing around the ďŹ elds in excitement, like their players will likely be, but make no mistake: They’re just as happy to be here as anyone.

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

RAIN

, 3&

(INCHES)

THURS. June 18

0.16

FRI.

June 19

0.25

SAT.

Scott Kudlinski captured the 2015 Plant City Leadership Class at the YMCA.

June 20

0.00

SUN.

Enter 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 and caption, to Editor Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.

June 21

0.00

MON.

June 22

0.00

TUES.

June 23

0.56

PLANT CITY WEATHER

WED.

June 24

0.57

June

TEMPERATURES

TO DATE

1.38 (2014: 0.48)

HIGH 89 92 88 89 94 95 96

Friday, June 26 Saturday, June 27 Sunday, June 28 Monday, June 29 Tuesday, June 30 Wednesday, July 1 Thursday, July 2

YEAR

TO DATE 15.12 (2014: 12.60)

Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a Tony award winner. Using the hints F=A and C=R, decipher the clues to name the entertainer.

1. F C T F X M K J F 2. D K M K K G C 3. E F Z T E G W W G C D U I 4. Y F X C O G J ’ D W O C G 5. B F C K S P F B G C

This entertainer was nominated for a Tony multiple times and won twice, in 1969 and 1987:

SUDOKU

Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 through 9 in each row, column and box.

5

9

2

1

3

2

8

4 3

1

7

7

9

5

8 6

3

1

3

6

4

2 4

7

LOW 75 75 75 74 74 73 74

SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES Friday, June 26 Saturday, June 27 Sunday, June 28 Monday, June 29 Tuesday, June 30 Wednesday, July 1 Thursday, July 2

SUNRISE 6:34 a.m.

6:34 a.m.

6:34 a.m.

6:35 a.m.

6:35 a.m.

6:35 a.m.

6:36 a.m.

SUNSET 8:29 p.m.

8:29 p.m.

8:29 p.m.

8:29 p.m.

8:29 p.m.

8:29 p.m.

8:29 p.m.

TOMATOES

SHIPPING POINT: Orlando $11.95 $9.95 $9.95

5-by-6 6-by-6 6-by-6

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

MOON PHASES July 1

July 8

July 16

July 23

CROSSWORD OUT FOR A JOG by Jill Pepper

CRYPTOQUIZ

7

3

7

1

4 3

ACROSS 1 Verb with “thou” 6 Folk singer Seeger 10 500 sheets 14 Equestrian 19 A Muse 20 British toilets 21 Mrs. Peel of “The Avengers” 22 Anoint with sacred oil, old-style 23 Picked up groceries, etc.

25 Warranties, essentially 27 Cheap avenue in Monopoly 28 Computer info 30 Lake of the Four Forest Cantons 31 Indian state 33 “Big Three” conference site of 1945 36 Reason for an evacuation 37 ___ and downs (fluctuations) 40 Clapton who sang “Layla” 42 Bottom of the barrel 43 “___ the ramparts ...”

44 Average citizens 48 Big-eared equine 50 Spanish coins of yore 54 Go down with the ship 55 Benjamin of history 57 Digger of “The Life of Riley” 58 Comparatively polished 61 Baptism, for one 62 H.S. dropouts’ achievements 64 Start for “Paulo” or “Vicente” 65 Be fond of 67 “Li’l” one in the comics 69 ___ fide 70 Restaurant serving 73 A long time 74 Saarinen, the son 75 “Once ___ a time ...”

76 Andean civilization 77 Puts away, as money 79 Like grass on the other side?

81 Masseur’s workplace, often 82 Network of veins or nerves 83 Elliptical 85 Perish 89 Mea ___ 91 Quadrilaterals with no parallel sides 94 More healthy 95 One may be taken to the cleaners 96 Balloon filler 97 One-floor abodes, often 100 Dell products 102 Caribbean and others 104 Open carriage 105 Dinner crumb 106 Greet silently 109 Male seal’s bevy 111 Contents of Pandora’s box 114 Words after “gentle” 116 Go south, as a stock market 118 Passes, as a law 121 Used a treadmill 124 Hit the shore, as a ship 127 Forecast, of a sort 128 Space explorer Shepard 129 All excited 130 Persian Gulf emirate

©2015 Universal Uclick

131 Accommodating answers 132 What father knows?

133 Big name in kiddie construction 134 Oater transport DOWN 1 Not him or them 2 Bedouin or Omani 3 “Two Years Before the Mast” author 4 Grave marker 5 Law school class 6 Picketer’s sign 7 Long, long time 8 Broadway’s “Sweeney ___” 9 English exam finale, often 10 Wine and dine 11 Big bird 12 Drs.’ group 13 Loose, crumbly deposit 14 Some dudes on horses 15 Placed in a grave 16 John of tractors 17 Makarova of tennis 18 Change, as a clock 24 Out of bed 26 Common vehicle 29 Natural ability

32 Annoy 34 Blue hue 35 Heir, for example 37 Pakistani language 38 Henry VIII’s last wife 39 Nose-in-the-air type 41 Bearing tendrils 45 Money, in Zambia 46 “___ and the King of Siam” 47 Animal house 49 Gave a villainous look 51 Famed fabulist 52 Grassy plain 53 “McSorley’s Bar” painter 56 Mauna ___, Hawaii’s highest peak 59 Clear, as 70-Down 60 Yachting event 63 Go on and on 66 With a 102-degree temperature 68 Songwriter Irving and philosopher Isaiah 69 News office 70 Platters 71 Enter, as into a computer 72 La ___ opera house 78 One way to get the gravy 79 Middle East strip 80 Bounce back, as sound

82 Afterthoughts at the roundup?

84 Poet, essentially 86 “There’s more ...”

87 Nostradamus, reputedly 88 At one time, at one time 90 Alaska oil conduit 92 Length X width, for a rectangle 93 Advil target 98 Try 99 In a hurry 101 Birdbrain 103 Impassioned 106 Like a witch’s face, in tales 107 “___ we all” (“We share that trait”) 108 Windmill parts 110 Fable finale 112 Adds fat for cooking 113 Troop’s information gatherer 115 Give away 117 Part of a book 119 Big horn 120 Hosiery woe 122 Bass or bitter 123 “___ in cat” (elementary lesson) 125 Holiday drink 126 It may be cast

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 *5.%