JUNE 16, 2017
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2 PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER | JOURNEY 2017
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DURANT HIGH SCHOOL Lisa Marie Abbey Yasmine A. H. Abd-Elrahman Addison Elaine Aborn Jesenia Aguirre Mousa Yahya Ahmad Calvin Aleman Bautista Yasmeen Caneia Allen Julio Omar Allende, Jr Melissa Alonso Daniel Alonso-Mendoza Fabricio Silvestre Alves Mariah Shaylee Andersen Alexander Miguel Andino Gyvelis Mireya Aranda Piris Roberto Carlos Arellano Garret William Atkins Lucas William Avella Morgan Whittney Baccamazzi Julian Leo Baez Morgan Renee Balser Jade Windfield Banks Casey Alawinda Barnes Jennifer Barnhart Elizabeth Grace Barrett Kaitlyn Nicole Bartlett Brandon Joshua Bateman Athena Alexandra Batten Kailey Dion Beaudoin Brandon Scott Bedell Kristen N. Behrens-Williamson Jensen Olivia Bell Da’Vesha Francois Benson Amy Grace Bergman Jamie Beth Bernstein Shondale Keandre Black Richard James Bogle, III Syvannah Leigh Boland Brett Duren Boswell Shakeel Alonzo Bovell Britney Dorothea Bowers Trevor Charles Bowman Jonathan Moriarty Breen Kaitlyn Michelle Brevik Carmen Danielle Broussard Elise Marcella Brown Jillian Truschel Brown Shayun Katari Bryant Taliah Lonnice Buchwald Michael Thomas Butler Cecil Kimmer Cadwallader, IV Connor Cajigal Guadalupe Camargo Michael Angelo Campos Victor Gerardo Cano Garza Samantha Kohana Cantrell Adan Arturo Cantu Destiny Adrianna Capella Renee Alexis Carmack Kasey Elizabeth Carney Andrew William Carroll Maverick John Carter Nicholas Brantley Carver Sergio Castillo, Jr Christian Julian Castro Carter Jack Cauwels Freddi Cerro Micaela Carol Chandler Bryce Clark Chapman
Photos by Justin Kline
Sergio Castillo Jr., Matthew Coleman, Carter Cauwels and Daniel Conrad
Left: Taliah Buchwald, Cecil Cadwallader and Connor Cajigal Above: Brett Boswell
Megan Denise Chapman Nicolas Gregory Chipman Mariah Ann Cintron Channon Christopher Clifton Sarah River Cobb Matthew Austin Coleman
4 PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER | JOURNEY 2017
Daniel Wayne Conrad Sarah River Cobb Elizabeth Nicole Cook Spencer Addison Cooper Zachary Michael Coughlin Kenneth Austin Crews
Stephen Tyler Croley Kamilah Michele Cruz Natalia Sofia Cuebas Ashley C. Cuevas Castizo Ismael Daniel Stephen Chand Darson
Aubrey Mae Davis Charli Korinn Davis Edrick Lamar Davis Justin Dean Davis Olivia Mary Davis Jacquelyn Terry Deaton Casey Ann Decatur Dylan G Delgado Omar Delgado, Jr Gina Rose Devine Jordan Matthew Devoe Gabriel Mariano Diaz Brooke Lauren Dixon Karsyn Briana Doiron Danielle Elizabeth Donovan Eric Christopher Dorow Christopher Kyle Dorsett Parker Mott Downs Samantha Michele Dudek Savannah Marian Duffey Madison Alyse Edgy Cabrielle Lat’ae Edwards Anthony Emanuel Elias Franqui Janie Lee Elliott Zachary Edward Elnahwy Cassidy Nicole Elrod Alexis Oralia Esparza Christian Espinal Viviana Espinosa Dulce Maria Estrada Lauren Nicole Estrada Brendan Tyler Everett Amanda Rose Fahie Tammarrion Exavier Faison Michaela Nicole Falzone Elizabeth Christine Farrell Kimberly Nicole Feldman Hunter Christian Ferguson Fransie Ann Fernandez Deja’marie Love Flanagan Meghan Kelsey Fletcher Haftom Mark Fliegelman Miguel Angel Flores Daylon Wade Flowers Matthew Kevin Floyd Lilian Patricia Foley Jake Tyler Folsom Bayleigh Karbie Foxwell Dylan Lee Foxwell Nicklas S. Edward David Fudge Keivonte Antonio Terrell Fuller Lashelle Daylee Gabbard Kayla Rose Galarza Laurel Rose Gallamore Gabriela Gallardo Matias Dalton Riley Gammon Juan Jose Garcia Oscar Cruz Garcia Guillermo Garcia Aguirre Natalie Garcia Marrero Christopher Lee Garrett Jaden Johnson Garrett Darriele Jiovanna Gaston Christopher Thomas Gay, Jr Nicholas Anthony Geddes San Marco Antoinio Geddes Angelo Adonis Gherini Ethan Matthew Giguere PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
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Julia Marie Jordan Peter Noah Kalogeras Brandon Davonte Kelly Lauren Elaine Kelly Noah Mikael Kelly Shannon Kathleen Kelly Kevin O’Rien Kerrn Ashley Brooke Killingsworth Cindy Kim Hannah Grace Kimble Cierra Cemone King Jameson Conlin King Adrien Veshard Kirkland Connor Lee Kranendonk Ethan Lane Ladewig Jacquelynn T. Landaverde Ryan Jeffrey Laquatra Justin Douglas Larsen Robert Henry Lashley Amanda Jewell Lasky Dylan Justice Laughlin Tyler Michael Le Jalen Rashon Leathers Peyton Andrew Ledbetter Yulydia Leon Kyle G. Lewis Wadsworth Julia Rose Licona Hailey Noelle Lime Allie Nicole Linn Lane Austin Lisenby Jennifer Anne Livingston Hannah Victoria Llanusa Kooper Guy Long Emily Michelle Lopez German Lopez-Lopez Jacob Robert Lorentzen Alexandra Brianna Louden Ethan Michael Louden Nephetale Valdine Louis Ty Anthony Love Jerry Joe Lowden Austin Garrett Lumley Xavier Devon Lyas Lillian Mary Lyon Gladys Julissa Macias Andrew James Malin Jeremy Shelton Mallory Tyler Martien Manis Jonathan Mansilla Laura A. Marcos Carranza Destiny Eileen Mariscal Jordan Andrew Marr Lacie Victoria Martin Alex Imer Martinez, Jr Alexa Marie Martinez Marta Julia Martinez Manuela Marulanda Jaramil Nathaniel Parker McBurney Sean Michael McClelland Austin Patrick McDonough Padraig Riley McDougall Nathan J. McFadden-Bethune Trevone Mikel McKie Colton Anderson McNabb Molly Lyn McNeely Eric Medina-Zavala Sonya Gabriela Medrano Alita Shari Mehaffey Yarandi Nicole Mercado Amanda S. Mercado Fumero Andrea C. Mercado Perez Matthew Joseph Middleton Ashlyn Nicole Miller Bailey Rein Miller
Bryson Keel C
ongratulations Bryson on all your accomplishments. Your hard work and dedication certainly paid off. We are so proud of you and the young man you have become. We know you will be very successful with all your future plans. Best of luck at the University of Florida. We are going to miss you—we love you! Dad, Mom, Justin • Honor Circle (ranked 7th in his class) • Tribune Scholar • Prom King • Editor-In-Chief (Yearbook) • Optimist Outstanding Youth Award • Senior Superlative • Senior of the Month • Captain Varsity Swim Team
GO GATO RS!
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Dayne Wesley Gill E’Shanti Dshayne Givens Charisma Faith Goff Jesse Michael Goff Victoria Gonzales Iriana Mychel Gonzalez Megan Theresa Gonzalez Ivan Gonzalez-Cardenas Hanna Marie Gottman Orlando Grafals, III Leanna Renée Graham Joseph Wesley Granzow Garrett Austin Gray Isabella Giulia Gray Jaquarius Kevontae Green Joshua Daniel Green James Thomas Griffin, III Maxemillian Errett Griffith Eric Paul Gruber, Jr Carlos Daniel Guerrero Jose Luis Guerrero, Jr Chebri Mone’ Guice Brandon Joseph Guido William Antonio-Juan Haayen Sharifa Aba Hackett Dustin James Hahn Taylor Marie Hall Joshua James Halterman Ian Draper Hamilton Sloan Kenna Hammons Tamara Denesha Hanson Jayce Fussell Hardee Jake Warren Harris Kailea Marie Harrod Laura Marie Hart Jared Michael Hartley Kiasiah Marie Haynes Catherine Marie Headley Juan Abraham Heimdale Christopher Henao Amy Ngocquynh Henriksen Dalton Levi Hensley Calojero Jae Hernandez Nelson J. Hernandez Cardona Ruben Hernandez-Feliciano Rashawn Trevontae Hill Briana Nicole Hindmon Courtney Charmel Hodge Triston Ralph Hodge Christian David Hofrichter Megan Rose Holden Trinity Isis Humphrey Cameron Taylor Huntley Jessica Sarabia Iligan Victoria Rose Lynn Isgett Fermin Isidro Abelino Emily Rose Iturbe Casey Eryn Jack Brittany Nichole Grace Jarrell Tatum Brant Jarvis Cory Leonard Jeffries Gerold Cecil Jenkins Cody Harris Johns Jazmyn Nikhol Johnson Jeremiah Wayne Johnson, II Joshua Travis Johnson Ryan William Johnson Brien Tyler Johnston Ryan Michael Johnston Thomas Scott Johnston Chynna Alexis Jones Destine Alexia Jones Maren Camille Jones Parker Adam Jones
JOURNEY 2017 | PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 5
DURANT HIGH SCHOOL
Nikola Gabriel Milosavljevic Ricardo Antaino Ming, Jr Clara Yvette Miranda Skylar Leeann Mitchell Fernando J. Molina-Duron Alexander Regen Molinelli Shania Jenessa Montague Carina Montiel Anthony Kaylobe Moody Megan Nicole Mooney Reina Maria Moran Megan Nichole Morano Jose Elias Moreno Andreanna Mae Morgan William Lee Morgan Conner James Morris Mark E Hunter Moser Kayla Jayde Mosley Shaylah Tegan Mott Tianna Nicole Mrva Brandon David Myers Stormy Kaye Myers Meagan Faith Neal Christopher Michael Nedrow Michael Anthony Negron Cameron Randy Nero Aaron Nicholas Ng Tang Thang Loi Nguyen Trang Thuy Nguyen Flavia Nieves Leal Matthew Edward Niles Dylan Joseph Novo Megan Christine O’Hare Jaiden Lance O’Keefe Ashlynne Nicole Ocasio Jillian Martha Oddo
Rachel Grace Olds Ely Karina Olivares Annika Marie Olson Nicole Ellektra Orlando Jamie Nicole Ortiz Maria Ines Ortiz-Gutierrez Chyanne Christine Otero Sara Michelle Ottinger Natavia L. Owens-Sandobal Heribelto Efrain Padilla Joaquin Antonio Padilla Alvaro Padron, Jr Austin James Parrish Jenna Brooke Pate Irene Paz Ryan Brendan Peeples Zoe Noel Peeples Jacob Neal Penny Jordan Xavier Perdomo Cristian Joel Perez Jose Guadalupe Perez Mercedes Shania Perez Silvia Perez Jestin Philip Peter Ashley Nicole Peters Dylan Thomas Philbin Caitlyn Elizabeth Phillips Kaitlynn Dianne Phillips Agustin Pichardo Gomez, Jr Baylie Anne Pitts Montana Daniel Pizzuto Alshae Sierra Plain Walter Jerome Polkey, III Kamara Tre’Vay Porter Morgan Kasidy Poston Matthew Reece Proeschel
Colin Christopher Queen Cody Harmon Quinones Dalia Isabel Ramirez Diana Karen Ramirez Olgareli Ramirez Oscar Ramirez Paulina Ramirez Gabrielle Viktoria Ramos Priscilla Rose Ramos Virginia Ramos Isabel Cristina Ramos-Dones Maegan Olivia Rebello Dakota James Reed Destiny Marie Reed Madison Louelle Reed Adriano A. Reguera-Valdez Debbie Maria Reinoso Ciera Nicole Renner Marshall Donald Rentz William Grey Rentz Lily Janee´ Rester Adriana Marie Rey Gerardo Reyes-Burgos James M. Reyes-Centeno Jacob Daniel Richie Haley Grace Riley Noe Rivas, Jr Daniel Antonio Rivera Na’Gee Nay’Twon Rivera Ryan James Robaus Traile Marie Robbins Sophie Elisabeth Robertson Nyelah B. Olaxis Robinson Jose Gil Rodriguez Rogriguez Sarah Diane Rohlfsen Kairstin Nikole Rollins
Congratulations Class of 2017
Carlos Alberto Romero, Jr Celia Yanet Romero Nehiel Arnaldo Rosa Janet Rosales Jacob Todd Ross Berenice Rubio Ricardo Ruiz James William Runey Emma Sue Rustenberghe Jason Anthony Ryan Grace Elizabeth Sae-tong Ashley Elizabeth Salazar Daniel Julian Sanchez Joseph Gerard Sanchez Isabelle Nicole Sanderfur Julio Enrique Sandoval Luis Fernando Sandoval Madison Elizabeth Sasser Connor Denvy Sayles Reese Logan Schaaf Dawson Blaine Schlindwein Jonah Michael Scolaro Lesley Secundino Marshall Jacob Seguin Alexis Marie Sepulveda Adam Thomas Sevier Sean Timothy Shafer Savannah Rae Shaw Allen Michael Shea Brooke Mackenzie Shepard Kyle Jeffery Sherman Noviah A. S. Sherman Bryce Edward Shinault Daejah Rae Shiver Deondrick A. Disco Short, II Hanna Grace Simmons Santra Simon David Gerald Skapyak Austin Taylor Smallwood Natalie Nicole Smiley Ciara Autumn Smith Joseph Hans Smith Kiara Smith Cheyenne A. Sommer Cameron Scott Spare Christian Jacob Sparks Kenneth Bailey Stallard Jack Robert Stayton Hunter Xavier Stephens Allison Valentina Stevens Briarria Corshawn Stevenson Corbett Hunter Stoskopf Abbey Elizabeth Stover Jordan Eric-Matthew Stroup Andrew James Swinson Autumn Michelle Tarlton Brendan Lee Taylor Jazmine Courtney Taylor Jacquelyn Nicole Tew Jordan Maria Theocharakis Shantele Ann Thea Thomas Jamie Morgan Thompson Jordan Lesynda Thompson Taylar Lloyd Thomspon Marisa Jordan Tice
Kenzie Mazy Toner Garrett Alan Totten Summer Trejo Brenda Trejo Espinoza Arianna Mirelys Trinidad Tommy Le Truong Tyler Andrew Trussell Kelly Rae Tuffy Meghan Susanna Tyler Mitchell Ryan Tyler Dakota Michael Tyson Taylor Victoria Uliano Matthew Edmund Urbina Alejandra E Urias De Paz Christian Matthew Valdez Jeanette Valdez Zachary John Vanecek Devin Enzo Vanzant Danielle Pilar Vargas Isabel Marie Vargas Mariah Jasmine Vargas Jessica Danielle Varnum Ethan Remo Vaughan Bianca Liz Velez-Lugo Ruben Ventura Ian Marcus Ver Strate Ivan Vidal Lawrence Emanuel Vivar Tatyana Amanda Wade Savannah Winnie Wagner Nathaniel Colin Walker Trey Michael Walker Justina Alexandra Ward Gavin Chad Watkins Rebecca Lynn Watkins Brianna Marie Watson John Stuart Watson, III Rielea Deanne Wearmouth Noah Jacob Webb Marissa Ann Weeks Danielle Nichole Weil Madelyn Elizabeth Wengyn Colyn Todd White Kirstin Nichole White Tyler Adam White Jacob Patrick Whitehead Juliana Whittingslow Hannah C. Nicole Wilkinson Henry Thompson Williams, Jr Jacob Lawrence Williams Morgan Reese Williams Victoria Lynn Williams Alexandria Morgan Wilson Cynthia Cheyanne Wilson Steven Joseph Witchoskey Koreym Reynell Woodard Peyton Jamal Wooten Austin Hunter Wright Jose Antonio Xolalpan Brooklyn Grace Yancey Michael D’Angelo Ybarra Christian Dylan Yee Colin Joseph Yelvington Damien Scott Zipprich Ciara Elizabeth Zugay
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6 PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER | JOURNEY 2017
See more Durant graduation photos at
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SALUTATORIAN: SARAH ROHLFSEN
as I make some sort of positive impact on the world — don’t know how yet — I’ll be happy.
Brittany Jarrell will study statistics at Florida State Sarah Rohlfsen will study engineering at Georgia University in the fall. Tech in the fall. JUSTIN KLINE
JUSTIN KLINE
SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
What emotions did you feel on graduation day? What was it like for you, walking on stage and finally getting your diploma? I was happy to finally graduate.
This is it. How do you feel? Really nervous, but I’m really excited.
What are some of your favorite memories from the last four years of high school? Not sure. What’s something you learned at Durant that will stick with you forever? Not sure. When did you decide you wanted to be valedictorian? One day in 10th grade.
What are you nervous about? Mostly the speech. I’ve never talked in front of this many people before. What were your studying habits? What did you do to make sure your grades stayed up? I did my homework. What advice would you give to an incoming freshman at Durant? If you plan on going to college, take advantage of dual enrollment and get your A.A. degree in high school for free.
What’s your favorite memory from high school? Getting to perform at all the pep rallies with my dance team. What activities were you involved in? The dance team, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society … I really liked coming to school and being here.
Photos by Justin Kline
Where are you going to college? What are you majoring in? Georgia Tech in Atlanta. I’m majoring in engineering. I’m leaning toward environmental right now, but I’m undecided.
What’s something you’ve done at Durant that will stick with you for the rest of your life? Probably just all the times I’ve been able to hang out with my friends. They’ve become family to me. What accomplishment from high school are you most proud of? Honestly, becoming salutatorian. It’s something I set my mind to that I was able to make happen. Actually, at last year’s graduation, I was third. I wanted to be third for the longest time and I got to third. At graduation, I was watching the speeches and I was like, “I’m going to do that next year.”
DURANT HIGH SCHOOL
VALEDICTORIAN: BRITTANY JARRELL
What advice would you give to an incoming freshman? Don’t rush high school. You will not realize how fast it goes by … enjoy the moments. You’ll miss them.
What’s your dream? I’m not 100% sure. But as long
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2017 GRADUATING CLASS!
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8 PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER | JOURNEY 2017
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PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL Ameenah Janan Abdullah Tyler Shane Abraham Celia Joy Adams Martin Aguirre Jasmine Albarran Jessica Leigh Alderman Francisco Javier Alejo Kaleigh Michelle Allen Alexandria Nicole Almon Abigayle Lee Almon Adrian Alvarado Juan Alexis Ambriz Berenice Ambriz Sandra Angon Emily Arevalo Emma Marie Arkins Marlee Rose Arn Jakob Devin Arnold Naomi Elaina Ash Christian Alexander Austin Jose Alfonzo Avalos Jose Ramon Avila Kerelyn Aviles Santiago Darin Andrew Baker Christopher David Barnett Taylor Paige Barrios Bryan Joseph Becker Brett Evan Becker Angel Leanne Bell Marco Antonio Benitez Talesha Lashey Bennett Milik Na’Vell Bennett-Spence Jordon Scott Bergman Jamie Marie Bertomeu Sarah Elizabeth Bjelke Alexis Samone Blanks Stephanie Blas Logan Chase Bodtmann Rosa Lia Boiser Cali Jean Boles Noah Mason Booz Khelsea Elisabeth Boyd Alexis Dominique Braxton Tybreshia J. Shadie Breedlove Travis Austin Brickey Hailee Lynne Brightwell Ana Julissa Briones Pecina Maricela Miriam Brito Ciara Nicole Brown Maxwell Americas Brown Jordan LeAnn Brown Dylan Kendall Brown Jackie Travis Brown Jr. Ashley Lynn Bruce Jackson Donn Burke Timothy Hunter Burke Matthew Albert Burns Kyleigh Briann Calvo Yesenia Camacho Anthony Roy Campbell Carlos Campbell Peyton Tyler Cantu Pamela Tuyet Ninh Cao Noah Bryan Cape Gilbert Dudley Carberg II Kaelib Austin Carlough Daniel Elias Caro Adriana Carranza Ramirez PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
Kevin Carrasquillo Lanara Monae’ Carter Kassie Lynn Case Samantha Renee Case Brandon Jesus Castillo Ximena Yuabi Castillo Martinez Blanca Orquidia Castizo-Reyes Gemma Catarino Castizo Amanda Renae Cerny John T. Franklin Chamberlain Kaicee Aaron Chancey Ivan Chavez Annalexis LaShay Christian Jourdain Kaley Cole Kaitlin Rose Colleran Tatayana Shanae Coney Ismael Contreras Alyssa LeAnne Cooper Jonathan Cortes Jacob Hunter Cothren Courtney Danielle Coton Melissa D. Crespo Acevedo Jax Michael Crossen Linda Renee Crosson Lisa Ola-Marie Crouse Alanis Adriana Crowder Edith Cruz-Mendoza Juan Cruz-Moctezuma Torrey Jaquarius Crymes Alexandra Arely Cuevas Luis Fernando Cuevas Cody Curby Payton McKenzie Curry Lauren Elizabeth Daly Kiera Nicole Davis
Photos by Daniel Figueroa IV
Top: Felicita Roman, Casey Jo Pitmon, Kevin Charles Petrain, Justin Gary Peters and Maya Samantha Phillips. Above: Brian Guadalupe Perez, Jose Jesus Varela, Alan Vasquez and Lance Austin Young.
Ta’jsea Cor’Shanti Davis Shantavia Shoniece Davis Chayse Eric Davis Hector Gabriel De Jesus
Gerardo De Jesus Mary De Paz Kylie Cheyann DeGarmo Jaime Delgado
Matthew Edward Denton Eric James Dessi Gabriel Abraham Diaz Cassandra Diaz
JOURNEY 2017 | PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 9
PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL
Photos by Daniel Figueroa IV
Left: Juan Carlos Rodriguez, Carlos Giovanni Rodriguez and andres Eduardo Palacios. Below Left: Olivia Mitchell and Teagan Wright. Below: Jake Koisa and Nicholas Koester.
BROOKE, we love you and couldn’t be more proud of you. Jeremiah 29:11
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Love, Dad, Mom & Rhet
10 PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER | JOURNEY 2017
Cameron Tyler Diem Kameron Jakob Dippold Lluvia Isabel Donadelli Susan Lexie Douglas Blake Chandler Dunn Kristopher Noel Echevarria Cassidy Rae English Briceida Esparza Amy Espinoza Ariana Brooke Everhart Jace Brennan Fairfield Katrina Renee Faulk Madai Felix-Moran Kaleigh Joy Felker Lauren Elizabeth Field Victor Antonio Figueroa Michael Lee Flores Perez Yoreliz Aolani Flores Perez Chandler Patric Flowers Toni Aereale Ford Alex Nicholas Foster Trinity Dejahnae Fountain Kaylee Elaine Franklin Tyler James Freeland Raymond Nicholas Frier Wolfgang J. A. Fry-Eastin Connor Emerson Futch Fredrick Tyler Futch Lillianna Gamez Perla Elizabeth Garcia Christian Nasin Garcia Anthony Angel Garcia Anarlen Garcia Andres Garcia Yadira Garcia Chavez Victoria Elizabeth Garrison Jacob Dean Garrison Amiah Ann Giles Austin Wayne Gilley Suake’via Nah’yele Gilmore Cody James Ginther Taylor Marie Goethals Victoria Ann Goethals Sarah Gonzalez Michael Adarryl Goodwine Jr. Jadiaya ShaCarmen Gordon Christopher Jordan Gosselin Brianna Lynn Graves Chase Mackenzie Green Taylor Brianne Grimes Jabier Guardiola Juan Luis Gudino Caroline Anne Guiddy Manuel Enrique Gulke Elias Gutierrez Rosendo Gutierrez Kimberly Elizabeth Halligan Nathan Scott Hamilton Tyriq’ Ja’Karrii Hargrove Arlancia Kiona Hargrove Sean-Nichola Lance Harlan Jesse James Harper Taylor Madison Harrell Michael James Harris Damien Harrison Courtney Noel Harrod Kaylee Samantha Hart Devin Aurele Hawes Mykela Keri Helms Jaylan Jorge Luis Henry Nathaniel Long Her Mariana Hernandez Julieanne Hernandez Dylan Ryan Hernandez
Angelica Hernandez Ramon Hernandez Esmeralda Hernandez Erica Hernandez-Lopez Rodney Hill Jr. Christopher Ryan Hodges Shatyra Anisha Holmes Jacey Anne Hooker Branden Eugene Hooks Michael Dylan Houser Noah Kendrick Hrabe Breana Jean Huffman Dalton Robert Huret Isabel Hurtado Kayleigh Miranda Hutchinson Alex C. Iannuzzi-Foley Elizabeth Ibarra Candy Michelle Iracheta Brandon Scott Irish Austin Isaac Irvin Givvonna Lawrenice Jackson D’asha Laparis Jackson Korey R. Charles Jackson Alexandra Julian Jacobs Victor M. Jalomo Morales Alesiya Tyaunna Jemison Katelin Nichole Jenkins Corey Wade David Jenkins Coby Chandler Jennings Kiana Janessa Jimenez Elizabeth Jimenez Roque Keyon Davohn Johnson Dylan James Johnson Elijah James Johnson Alissiya Pamela Joiner Breanna Alyze Jolie Ashontes Dejanique Jones Tyler Lamar Jordan Alexis Anne Jordan Tione Nicholas Joseph Kevin Tyler Jurgens Bryson Jefferson Keel Shawn Allen Keen Tyler Landen Keen Janet Renee’ Kell Molly Navi Kim Corey Jermaine King II Drew Redman Knotts Katlinn Renee Knupp Nicholas Daniel Koester Jake Alexander Koisa Corey Joseph Kozicki Monica Lohtia Kumar Savannah Jean Kummelman Brianna Lea Kurtz Sam Charles LaBarbera Jayla Rashon Lampkin Allison Emmelee Lane David Millan LeCornu Bre’Asia Murrell LeCount Michelle Guadalupe Ledezma Dalton Clark Lefebvre Noah C. Legeret-Harris Kiyana Marie Levins Ryan Scott Lewis Sarah Marie Lewis Cindy Lizama Tristen Allen Lock Tyler Jacob Lockyer Sandro Miguel Lopez Serafin Lopez Saul L. Ramirez Damien A. Lopez-Burch Dasjon Semaj Lott PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
Maria Emperatriz Santana Cesar Santiago Carolina Michelle Santiago Adrian Santibanez Maddison Haylee Sapp Elizabeth Saucedo Jose I. Saucedo-Rodriguez Mikayla Leigh Schifter Lauren Destiny Schism Winter S. Gabriella Seliger Sarah Ann Shannon Maura Elisabeth Shea Dylan Michael Sheffield Jacob Gunner Shivers Ellie Ann Shouse Alexander Luis Sierra Christopher Conoza Simms Joseph Douglass Simons Christopher Michael Smith Connor Alan Smith Tyler James Smith Anyssa Azryelle Smith William Scott Smith Lucas Evan Daniel Smith Ismael Solis Sabrina Jasmine Soltau Andrew Sotello Samantha Ilene Soto Tionna Shanelle Springfield Corey Dylan St. John Hayley Elizabeth Stafford William Bryce Stanley Ashtyn Faith Steele Gresham Alexander Stephens Jacob Michael Stevens Sydney Leighann Stewart
Chandler Wesley Stiles Ryan Lee Surrency Joseph Robert Swinson Mariana Tamayo Kaylee Ray Tarvin Trenton Floyd Tatum Nerjes Hassan Taweel Zachary Christian Tenorio Quaniyah Shannquai Thomas Paige Marie Thomas Antoine Dumonts Thompson Robert Benjamin Tindale Megan Kristen Todd Miguel Pedro Tomas Eric Torres Juan Carlos Torres Gabriela Nicole Travieso Jonathan Trejo Caitlyn Sue Turner Joselyn Tursios Cinthia M. Valencia-Chavez Jose Jesus Varela Alan Vasquez Judith Lopez Ventura Sophia Vera Fernando Viera Jr.
Trevor Marvin Violett Shantara Janae Vonador Emily Anne Walker K’Auja Sharee Wallace Tydre Malik Ward Cole Allen Washington Cedric E. Washington Jr. Justin Allen Waters Ravyn Skye Weldishofer Arden Renae White Luke Parker Whitmore Kayla Nacole Williams Alexis Angelina Anne Williams Riley Nicole Williams Dalton James Wingo Kyle Patrick Wood Teagan Kylee Wright Felix Yanez-Bailon Xue Tommy Yang Ashlyn Elizabeth Yarbrough Henry Burke Yoho Brandon Scott Young Lance Austin Young Joseph Carmen Zaino III Alicia Zarate
ONLINE See more Plant City High School graduation photos at PlantCityObserver.com
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Kaleb Anthony Pedone Omero Perez Deianira Alicia Perez Brian Guadalupe Perez Banesa Perez Kianna Marie Perez Yarely Michelle Perez Jasmine M. Perez Bartolon Leslye Michelle Perez Diaz Jack Gavin Peterman Justin Gary Peters Kathryn Marie Peters-Brown Kevin Charles Petrain Mya Samantha Phillips Casey Jo Pitmon Julio Cesar Plaza Erick Joel Polanco Lizbeth Ponce Maddison Starr Ponce Tristen Bryce Porter Lexi Danielle Queen Clay Bryce Raburn Michael Paul Rainey Adrian Ramirez Juan Carlos Ramirez Yaneli Ramirez-Gomez Zelina Marie Ramos Jadun Daclifton Range Aylin Rayo Christian Zachary Renslow Grant Austin Rhodes Aaron Thomas Rhodes Drew Forrest Rice Calvin Louis Richardson Joe Luis Rico Shiara Michelle Rijos Diego Rivera Lou Julyaida Rivera Sarah Anne Roberts Troy Michael Roberts Antoinette Breanna Robinson Victoria Dawn Robinson Victoria Lynn Rocha Anilsa A. Rodas Villanueva Luis Antonio Rodriguez Ronaldo Rodriguez Angel Rodriguez Diamond Esther Rodriguez Juan Carlos Rodriguez Lissette Adriana Rodriguez Rubil Rodriguez Carlos Giovanni Rodriguez Korina Samantha Rodriguez Daniel Rodriguez Jr. Shania Ebony Rogers Wyatt Anthony Rogers Alexis Emiliano Romero Hannah Marie Rose Tyler Jared Royster Kaitlyn Marie Ruedeman Angela Sarai Ruiz Abraham Ruiz Angelica Beatrice Ruiz Emily Rose Taitano Ryan Emily Grace Rypkema Ubaldo Salazar Jr. Mia Evalee Salcedo Sarah Osama Salem Xiomara Salinas Sandra Salmeron-Blas Jermaine Rashawn Sampson Giovanna Sanchez Erica Danielle Sanders Aylin Guadalupe Sandoval
PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL
Esmeralda Lozoya Christian Anthony Lucas Mackenzie Lauren Luke Beatris Liset Lumbreras Dane St.Elmo Lyttle Jr. Tymeka Renee Mack Tyrone Devonte’ Mack Tyra Jsaron’e Mack Jason Alexander Mackenzie Arlette Janice Maldonado Michael I. Maldonado Rivera Cheyanne Lee Malpeli Rosa Isela Marcos Karlee May Martin Abigail Martinez Amy Norma Martinez Ofelia Martinez Ashley R. Elizabeth Mathis Summer Ashley Mayes Michael Curtis McCullers Evan Tyler McDonnell Amber Leigh McGuire Tarik Lamar McKelphin Vanessa Ann McMurray Lised Medina-Aviles Edith Melendez Jalieeann Menchaca Madison Rose Mendenhall Oscar Eric Mendoza Emily Ann Menia Kaitlyn Nicole Merrin Dajionea Tybria Micheal Whitney Nicole Miller Kayla Marie Minck Zachary David Mitchell Olivia Kathlyn Mitchell Edmilly Marie Molina Jonathan David Moncada Medady Alexis Montelongo Misael Alexis Montoya Jordan Alexandra Moody Katie Marie Mooney James Erick Morales Jaylynn Morales Megan Haynes Mulvaney Victoria Alexis Munch Kristal Nandi Nicholas Lee Nash Ariel Anai Navarrete Tyler Edward Neely Lisa Marie Nesbitt Karl Clayton Newby Derek James Newell Jackson Walter Nichols Lusestrella Nolasco Olga Nolasco Juan Nolasco Kristen Nicole Northcutt Steven James Ogletree Jr. Fabionya Enette Larya Oliver Alexander Stefan Oquendo Rene Ordaz Esmeralda Orozco Jasmine Nicole Ortiz Benjamin Richard Padgett Kennan Michael Pait Andres Eduardo Palacios Tiera Sophia Palmisano Abraham Paniagua-Blancas Lisandro Pantoja Ty’Shambrea T. S. Parker Ge’Sean Kyice Parker Kaylee Rochelle Parsels Noah Samuel Pawlowski
JOURNEY 2017 | PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 11
VALEDICTORIAN: MONICA KUMAR Monica Kumar will study biochemistry at the University of Florida in the fall.
CAMERON
DANIEL FIGUEROA IV STAFF WRITER
What emotions did you feel on graduation day? What was it like for you, walking on stage and finally getting your diploma? Graduation day was a roller coaster. I felt excited to have finished high school and felt a sense of accomplishment that this day finally came after 12 years. I also felt nervous to deliver a speech to such a great audience, but I had my best friend, the Salutatorian by my side, which was a relief since we delivered it together.
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Congratulations Seniors! Michael S.Cameron Financial Advisor
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110 W. Reynolds Street Suite 109, Plant City, FL 33563 michael@cameronfm.com
What are some of your favorite memories from the last four years of high school? My favorite memories include joining Health Occupations Students of America. I joined this club my freshman year and found my passion for medicine here. Over the course of four years I enjoyed competing at the district level and also the friendships that I made along the way. I also enjoyed the pep rallies and Grad Bash. When did you decide you wanted to work toward becoming the Class of 2017’s valedictorian? As a freshman, I made the goal to graduate with my associates degree by the time I finished high school. Achieving this goal required me to take many Advanced Placement and dual enrollment classes. Over the course of four years, taking all these classes increased my GPA, allowing me to become valedictorian. What were your studying habits? What did you do to make sure your grades stayed up? High school can be hectic with clubs, sports and classes. I recommend keeping a planner, this helps you be organized keeping all your assignments in one place so you won’t forget any due dates.
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Plant City? I advise an incoming freshman to put yourself out there. Join a variety of clubs, take different classes out of your comfort zone. This will help you find your passions and interests. Also, you’ll make many great new friends like did when I joined HOSA. Where are you going to college, and what are you looking to major in? I’m going to the University of Florida and majoring in biochemistry. What’s your dream job? What do you hope to do after college? My dream job is to be an orthodontist, and after college I hope to open my own practice in California.
What advice would you give to an incoming freshman at PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
SALUTATORIAN: LAUREN DALY Lauren Daly will study digital media production at Florida State University in the fall. DANIEL FIGUEROA IV STAFF WRITER
What emotions did you feel on graduation day? What was it like for you, walking on stage and finally getting your diploma? Graduation day was full of so many different emotions, but more than anything I was so excited that the day had finally come. Seeing all my friends in their caps and gowns was surreal because it didn’t feel like we were old enough to be graduating yet. After I got my diploma I felt so accomplished. My best friend was the valedictorian, so we sat next to each other for the rest of graduation and couldn’t stop smiling. What are some of your favorite memories from the last four years of high school? Most of my favorite memories were with Raider Buddies, Plant City’s version of Best Buddies. I was a member of the club for four years and served as president my junior and senior years. We planned so many events each year including movie nights, a fashion show, a trip to the Strawberry Festival, and my personal favorite, Buddy Ball, which is a prom just for our club. What’s something you learned at Plant City that will stick with you forever? Through clubs at Plant City like Best Buddies and Special Olympics, I learned that a little kindness, empathy, and friendship can go a long way. Through these clubs I learned how to interact with those who communicate differently or see things different from myself. In the real world, people don’t always share your same beliefs or look at things the same way as you. These clubs helped me understand this, and taught me how to adapt. When did you decide you wanted to work toward becoming the Class of 2017’s Salutatorian? My freshman year I set a goal to graduate high school with my
ASHLYN YARBROUGH
We love you and are so proud of you! - Momma, Daddy, KK, Mady, Buddy, Nana & Papa
associates degree through dual enrollment. I laid out a plan of all the high school and college classes I needed to take over four years to accomplish this goal. It wasn’t until the end of my sophomore year that I realized I had the drive (and the course load) to finish at the top of my class. What were your studying habits? What did you do to make sure your grades stayed up? I’ve always enjoyed school, so studying usually comes naturally to me. For the most part, I tried to take classes I was interested in to keep my motivation up. I love history and math, so I took as many of those as I could. What advice would you give to an incoming freshman at Plant City? Get involved! Plant City has an amazing variety of sports, clubs and after school activities. There really is something for everyone. I got involved with Raider Buddies my freshman year and found a passion in working with and being an advocate for those who are “differently abled.” What’s your dream job? What do you hope to do after college? My dream job is to work as a Director of Photography in the film industry. After FSU I plan on going to grad school, either in New York or California.
Ashlyn will be attending the University of Florida.
GO GATORS! Jeremiah 29:11 -
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JOURNEY 2017 | PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 13
STRAWBERRY CREST Aquil Jamir Abdul-Wasi Michael Robert Acosta Jr. Sara Elizabeth Adams Sarah Ann Adkins Austin Trey Akers Cesar G. Alavez Martinez Ebodio Aleman III Kyler William Alexander Marcella Violanda Alfonso Dominique Alexis Alvarez Ricardo Anaya-Loyola Katelyn Nichole Anderson Skyler Raye Anderson Patricia Angon Juan Pablo Anzaldua Alyssa Joan Archer Israel Arechiga Jr. Tawnie Lee Armstrong Brandy Marie Ashmore Luis Fernando Avalos-Garcia Erica Aviles Kyle Bentley Ayscue Michael Corey Baldwin Suchita Bandarupalli Emmanuel Barrera Amado Bautista Jose Armando Bautista Michael Bautista Kevin Makenzy Beall Michael David Bell Elizabeth Jordan Bennett Michael William Bennett III Justin Tyler Joseph Berger Daniel Bernal Alicia Nicole Best Erika Louise Best Ellie Nicole Biddle Samuel Drew Birchmeier Autumn McKenzie Bird Michael Ryan Bogart Tara Lynn Bomar Moenes Bouazizi Addison Danae Boully Haylee Lynn Mae Bowe Tehron Abijah Brathwaite Zachary Ryan Brightwell Chloe Cheyenne Brinson Jasmin Vibiana Briones Dallis Car’rie Christiana Brown Trevor Brandon Brown Shellie Mackenzie Bryant Annabel Bueno Alejandro Bueno Jr. Isabel Bueno-Diosdado Robert Steven Burdette Alyssa Elizabeth Byrd Eric Cabrales Charlotte Suzanne Caldwell Samuel James Caldwell Jadyn Makynzie Calkins Henry Tylor Campbell Timothy Zion Carr Irene Carreño Hector Enrique Carreon Scott Avery Carter Irene Castillo Cindy Catalan Kevin Madhavapallil Chacko
Holly Drapp, Amani Gordon, Maya Doogah and Anthony Johnson
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Above: Rachel Peak and Jazmin Perez Right: Bobbi DeBlasio and Alexa Diaz
Jenni Vadackeuppoottil Chackochen Nikitha Chandran Isabella Sophia Chaudhry Jesus Aron Chavez Cynthia Chavez Joanna Kelly Chen Meera Anne Cherian Emma Lee Chewning Jenna Victoria Christie Jacob Bradley Chytil Breanna Kelly Clyburn Taylor Ashlee Coleman Harry Ray Combs Katie Leann Conley Jacob Ryan Conrad Julissa Conteras Brooke Ashton Conyers
14 PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER | JOURNEY 2017
Jacob Allen Cook Rorden Alexander Cook Sheamus Daniel Cooper Cayla Marie Coronado Karla Mirelly Correa Cameron Kelley Cotten Olive Isabelle Crawford-Finn Frances Ana Cruz Jessica Gabriela Cruz Shaquira Rosales Cruz Shauntelle Rosales Cruz Cheyenne Rose Cumbie Megan Noelle Daumy Rachel Amber Davies Raina Michelle Davis Taylor Leann Davis Castulo De Los Santos Neponuceno
Bobbi LeeAnn DeBlasio Joshua Devin Delgado Davinche Juwan Dennard Joseph Samuel Dent Alexa Paige Diaz Jarrett Devon Dickens Tiffany Lynn Dickover Freddie Sinatra Dixon III Brianna Sue Doane Brandon Michael Dodge Abigail Neva Doege Michael Garrett Doherty Maya Cristina Doogah Holly Ann Drapp Stephanie Ann Dwyer Carly Morgan Ebdrup Luis Eduardo Enriquez
Hope Alexis Epps Kevin Thomas Erlendsson Cristian Garcia Escalera Ana Paula Espina Rey Aldair Espinoza Jose Guadalupe Esquivel Ramon Esquivel III Kiana Marie Etcheverry Jeremy Robert Etheridge Kamryn John Eversole Morenike Tibayre Fashoro Hayley Elizabeth Fedor Phoebe Marie Ferguson Analycia Marta Fernandez Natalie Grace Figueroa Janeen Josephine Fisher Leannette Calivia Flaharty Ashawnti LaDeja Flournoy Amelia Mei Yi Fong Christina Maria Font Garrett Monroe Foote Colin Christopher Fowler Matthew Oneil Fowler Jazmine Kidaria Francis Javin Lyvell Franklin Caleb Nathanael Frink Lauren Jean Frost Francisco Agustin Fuentes Kristen Elyse Gaertner Kevin Wayne Galvan Alicia Gandarilla Padmavathi Ganduri Daysha Cynthia-Marie Garcia Javier Bautista Garcia Jose Arturo Garcia José Martin Garcia Justin Amado Garcia Jaime Garcia Jr. Itandewi Garcia-Bautista Yanet Garcia-Velasco Timothy Joseph Garner Sara Naomi Gaudlap Keiran Nichole George Haley Sheree Giles Noe Gomez-Ramirez Amelia Gonzalez Nelida Erika Gonzalez Gisselle Gonzalez Jesus Gonzalez-Medina Javier Jose Gonzalez-Rivera Breanna Danielle Goodwien Amani Kasumi Gordon Kiran Ahmed Khan Gordon Marshall Wyatt Grant Andrew Joseph Gray Blaise Joseph Greco Austin Jordan Greczyn Dewayne Green Jr. Daniel Guerra Becky Luz Guillen Patricia Allette Guthman Aidan Michael Haddan Ashley Rae Hamel Autumn Sarah Hames Noah Hand Jordan Nicole Harnage Jessica Julianne Harrell Bailey Scott Harrington PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
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Miguel Angel Lopez Sandra Lopez Yureni Lopez Rojas Yesenia Lopez-Martinez Karis Mia Lott Tarra Anne Love Devonte Jordan Lowe Josh Antonio Lua Maricruz Lugo Echeverria Makenzie Grace Lung Chase Ethan MacLean Lauren Nicole Madera Mathias Samuel Madray Samantha Mae Maguire Yolisa Malavé Caleb Justiniano Maldonado Julian Maldonado Collado Brenda Mandujano Jose Antonio Mandujano Emily Elise Mann Karen Manzano Ryan Anthony Maples Oscar Franscisco Marquez Victor Martinez Cruz Mauro Martinez Santiago Faith Dakota Massey John Miller Masson Leslie Cody Masters Kaelea Nicole McCall Nathanael Adam McClellan Alana Monetté McFadden Erin Lynn McGowan Juan Jesus Medina Lizet Medina Johnny Enrique Medina III Erica Janette Melendez Samuel A. Meza-Krehn Keylonnie Lavonne Miller Ryan James Mixon Dominique Lynne Montanez Ruby Grace Louisa Moore Alessandra Emma Morales Eduardo Josue Morales Roger Anthony Morgan Lauren Marie Morhard Jack Keller Morrison Soleia Shae Morrison Lance Michael-Caldwell Mumford Anthony George Muniz Joshua Eddie Muniz Samantha Marie Navejar Dalton Clay Newberry Chelsea Nicole Newman Christina Thanh Van Nguyen Alexus Makiah Nichols Anahi Nieto Gonzalez Virgilio Nieves-Prudencio Mason Patrick Nikel Jada Shanice Nobles Ricardo Thomas Ojeda Luis Angel Olmedo Victoria Faith Ontiveros Raul Essau Ordaz Jesus Alberto Orellana Vanessa Lizbet Ortiz José Antonio Ortiz Diaz Gabriela Ortiz-Hernandez Marcos Fidencio Pardo Saige Analee Parker Ethan Michael Parrillo Oscar Pascual Ashley Gayle Patel Kirtan Jayesh Patel Cheyanne Elizabeth Patisaul
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Brock Cameron Harrington Kyle Scott Harrington Cheyenne Rae Harris Nicholas Carter Harris Alexander John Harrison Matthew Tristan Harvester Heather Lynn Hatton Karson Reid Hatton Andrea Louise Hayes Sydney Nicole Herlihy Julian Yves Hernandez Lilian Elizabeth Hernandez Lorena Sarahi Hernandez Vanessa Abigail Hernandez Ricardo Andres Hernandez Eric J. N. Hernández Rivera Karen C. Hernandez Torres Olga Hernandez-Lopez Alex Hernandez-Santiago Roger Eugene Hill Jr. Cameron Stone Hinton Emily Pearl Marie Hodgdon Jennifer Robin Hopper Christopher Michael Houser Emily Marie Hurlburt Cordasha Suakia Hutchinson Mark Allen Ingersoll Jr. Fatima Jade Iyer Shiva Paul Iyer Elizabeth Devlin Jackson Diego Alexander Jaramillo Liliana Lorena Jimenez Anthony Bennett Johnson Jamaica R. Anthony Johnson Madison Marguerite Johnson Lane Thomas Joiner Karissa Marie Jones Karina Alexa Jose Zhinajii Franshaw Julius Tiffany Nichole Jureatic Jacob Alan Kampmeier Ryan James Kehrmeyer Grace Ann Kelley Bryan Stone Kelly Kevin James Kenworthy Trent Jordan Kerrigan Riley Charles Kiefer Thomas Clint Knudsen Kaitlyn Eileen Kramar Dylan Ronald Krug Tyler William Kuba Sai Krishna Kukkadam Christian Matthew Laird Jack William Lamb Christopher Michael Lane Maddison Joelle Langston Zeatrick Adolphus Larry Zachary Daniel Lastinger Brandon Chance Lee Brian James Lee Jordan Elizabeth Leu Casey Lynn Levine Max William Li Nemyah Alexis Lindsey Aubrey Kay Lingo Alexis Mary Linsinbigler Austin Neal Linsley Madison Thomas Long Angela Marie Longval Carlos Daniel Lopez Celene Yasel Lopez Edgar Bumaro Lopez Gilbert Frank Lopez Guadalupe Lopez
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STRAWBERRY CREST
Thaddius Kane Patisaul Blake Montgomery Patterson Miguel Angel Paz Rachel Joann Peak Jacob Matthew Pedersen Mark Kristopher Pedroso John Anthony Pena Crystal Perez Eric Resendiz Perez Esteban Perez Jazmin Marie Perez Miranda Mae Perez Jaziel Obed Perez-Cuevas Gabriel A. Perez-Pereira Marlen Perez-Ventura Alexa Lynne Petrie Emily Ann Renee Phillips Logen Randell Pickett Paula Elaine Pierce
Giovanni Vincent Piergallini Jared James Pierson Ashwin Viswanath Pillai Sherilynn Janine Pippin Alexandria Elizabeth Podaril William Franklin Polk III Ethan Scott Portervint Amruta Sanjiv Potdar Ashleigh Nikole Proctor Adolfo Prudencio-Albino Zachary M. Quessenberry Nayellie Lisette Quijada Peter William Radulovic Anam Rahman Amber Nicole Ralyea Enrique Damian Ramirez Alejandra Ramirez Alex Ramirez-Bautista Efrain Ramos
Leyla Skye Ramos Heriberto Ramos Cruz Adela R. Ramos Martinez Anallely Ramos-Santiago Jasmin Ramos-Velasco Monica Celia Rangel Bailey Steven Raulerson John Allen Tezak Ray Savannah Nicole Reagan Savannah Raine Reagan Jacob Borden Reed Raegan Nicole Reeder Mary Katherine Reith Anthony Michael Rivera Elias Joel Rivera Ericka Lisett Rivera Raul Armand Rivera Valeria Monik Rivera Samuel Andres Rivera-Alicea
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Joseph Alexander Rivers Katelin Michelle Rockey Arlene Rodriguez Ricardo Rojas-Hernandez Caitlyn Sierra Rooms Alanis Paola Rosado Leslie Jaliene Rosales Ashley Ruiz Hailey Ruiz Vanessa Ruiz Justin Charles Runnals Caroline Marie Russell Christianna Jennifer Sacco Elizabeth Salazar Loraine Ailin Salgado Vidal Alicia Sanchez Kiommar Santiago Dario Santiago Hernandez Alejandro O. Santiago Magee Esmeralda Santos Lopez Randall Keith Sapp Jr. Kristina Lauren Sarsfield Kyler Lee Saunders Nicholas Michael Schnelker Jordan Arthur Schwarz Richard Anthony Scionti Devan Suketu Shah Lavonne Leonte’ Shakes McKenzie Brooke Shelby Ryan Patrick Sherrier Lindsey Robin Shover Dakotah Jade Sikes Arizvhet Nayeli Silva Madison Brooke Simcox Suryanshi Singh Andrew Ryan Sippel Cooper James Sitaras Tifany Lynn Slusmeyer Alysia Justine Smith Austin Kyle Smith Brandon Cage Smith Colten Chase Smith Connor James Smith Emily Paige Smith Kiyah Michelle Smith Jordan So Ling Snapp Dylan Joshua Soto Jodally Amneris Soto Isaiah Troy Spano Cody Michael Sparks David Joseph Spooner Madison Leigh Springer William Patrick Stanley Remi Louiseana Stephens Chelsea Ann Stepp Brandon Deandre Stewart Mary Elizabeth Stewart Zachary Austin Straka Kediejah Lynnisha Sullivan Hannah Lynn Swafford Kennedy Paige Swindle Savanna Catherine Swingle Sydney A. Szczesniakowski Antoni Szpiech
Spencer Thomas Tamagni Christian John Tapper Kyle Jacob Tears A’Kia Shenar’yah Thomas Anjali Mary Thomas Autumn Stacia Thompson Donnie Ray Tice Jr. Sebastian Wesley Todd Tashkin Salim Tokaria Daisy Noheli Torres Alexus Brianne Torres Enrique Torres Jr. Ramiro Torres Jr. Ayanna Shonte’ Trigg Briana Renee’ Trigg Anthony Nicholas Tripi Darwin Alexander Trochez Dylan C. Santos Tyska Camile M. Ugarte-Hernández Moises Ivan Valdes Abby Danielle Valencia Zeb Earl Varn Rhianna Kaye Vaughn Hortencia Velasco-Santiago Kristin Jane Velez Gabriel Vieira Kristy Villegas-Delacruz Nathanael Paul Vincent Leslie Pa-Dja Vu Sydney Lauren Walker Madison A. Sophia Wallace Colton James Watson Carmen Alexis Watts Gwen Nicole Weaver Damien Richard Weeks Brandi Alexis Welch Kaylee-Ana Wells Emily Laraine Werner Zachary Charles Weston Ryan Patrick Whaley Jordan Patrick White Zoya Renee’ Whitehead Milton Andrei Wilches Peggy Leann Wilcox Cloyd Nathan Wilder Kelly Megan Williams Theo Anthony Williams Jr. Austin Ray Williamson Destinee Loren Wilson Logan Mackenzie Wilson Shelby Chanel Wilson Shelby Lynn Womble Sarah Elizabeth Wylie Danielle Israea Wynn Kyle Nyaj-Kou Xiong Tom Suyen Xiong Jairang Yarlagadda Autumn Rosalene Young Christian Rocco Young Daniela Zamarripa Ricardo Zamarripa Victor Zaragoza-Aldama Emalis Zarsoza Martha P. Zermeño Arrona
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IB VALEDICTORIAN: KEVIN CHACKO Kevin Chacko will study biology at the University of Florida in the fall. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
This is your final moment as a Charger before you walk the stage and move on. How do you feel? It’s kind of bittersweet. I feel excited because I’m ready for the next stage of my life. But I also feel a little sad because I know I made a lot of memories at Crest that I’ll be leaving behind. But I’ll cherish those memories and hold them with me forever. What’s your favorite memory? The times that I spent with my friends. Especially during lunch. Every Friday, we have a Dance Party Friday thing and that’s really fun. I’m definitely going to miss that.
You made it through one of the best academic programs there is. What was the toughest thing about it? I would say the toughest thing about it is the extended essay we had to write. It was a 4,000-word essay. But the teachers really helped us along the way, and they helped make that a lot easier on us. It really worked out in the end. Where do you plant to go to college? The University of Florida. Do you have a major in mind? Biology. I’m planning on becoming a physician, so I’m getting on that track.
always says this. I learned to be active and to go forth and be a leader. I know Mr. Brown always says that. Go forth and be a leader. Change the world. I think that’s one of the biggest messages that I learned from Strawberry Crest. What advice would you give to an incoming freshman going through the IB program? I would tell an incoming freshman to make sure that they manage their time, don’t procrastinate and work hard. If they do that, they’ll be fine.
What’s something you learned at Strawberry Crest that you think is going to stick with you for a really long time? I know Mr. (David) Brown
Photos by Justin Kline
IB SALUTATORIAN: KEYLONNIE MILLER Keylonnie Miller will study computer engineering at the University of Michigan in the fall. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
What’s something you learned at Strawberry Crest that’s going to stick with you for a long time? Open-mindedness and balance. Those are two characteristics that the IB program really stresses. I think I didn’t have a lot of that in my life before coming to Strawberry Crest. Now that I do, they’re the main characteristics PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
Congratulations to
that I strive for on a daily basis. Mr. Brown talks a lot about chasing your dream and changing the world. What’s your dream? I would like to work for a company — it’s a dream job now — like Google. Not only are they really invested in doing a lot of research, but they like to use that research to give back to the community, which is a big thing for me.
ARIE FRY
c/o 2017 PCHS. Love, Mom, Barie & Mark 243716
How do you feel, knowing you’re about to get your diploma and move on? Excited and nervous at the same time. I just know there are so many things I can do now, with my free time. And, just education in general. Going off to college is a new experience, a new journey. I’m excited.
JOURNEY 2017 | PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 17
SALUTATORIAN: ALANIS ROSADO Alanis Rosado will study Biomedical Sciences at the University of South Florida in the fall. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
How much work did it take for you to get to this point, second in your graduating class? Oh, my gosh. So many sleepless nights, staying up, trying to do my work or study, but I think it all paid off in the end because I accomplished my dream of getting on stage and making a speech. I’m really happy with all the work I’ve put into it.
much school spirit we all had. What is the most important lesson you learned while at Strawberry Crest? I really learned that, if you make a mistake, move on from it. You’ll grow so much as a person and you won’t make the same mistake in the future. You’ll have a lot more knowledge of how to deal with certain situations. How do you feel, now that you’re about to graduate? I’m excited, of course, to graduate high school. But I am a little nervous, since I will be making a speech. I hope everything will go good.
What are your college plans? I’m going to go to the University of South Florida and major in Biomedical Sciences.
would like to specialize in pediatric oncology so I can work at St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. I believe that every child should have a good childhood. I hope to help the kids fight cancer and, hopefully, discover a cure.
Mr. Brown always says to go out there and chase your dreams. What’s your dream to chase, when you’re out of college? After I get my undergrad I hope to go to medical school, where I
What’s your favorite memory from your time at Strawberry Crest? I think I really love the football games because I really saw everyone coming together, cheering for our team. That really showed how
What advice would you give to an incoming freshman? I really recommend incoming freshmen to work hard since day one. Do not slack off at all. Do not think you can make it up the next year because it all really comes down to how you start. If you have a good foot coming into something, you’re really going to come out knowing so much, being such a better person and developing a lot of life skills that you’re going to need for the future.
Photos by Justin Kline
VALEDICTORIAN: FATIMA IYER Fatima Iyer’s plan is to get her Associate of Science degree, get into an Ivy League school and study law. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
What was the toughest part of working your way up to the top of your graduating class? The toughest part, I would have to say, is the amount of time you have to spend in order to become as high as you are, such as valedictorian or salutatorian. You have to put in a lot of time and effort into everything you do. And never give up.
BEST OF LUCK to the
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How does it feel to be graduating? I feel very nervous, excited, anxious — I just want it to start already.
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Where do you plan to go to college? I already have my associate of arts degree, and I plan on finishing my associate of science degree at Hillsborough Community College. Then, I plan on applying to an Ivy League school. Cornell, because I want to go into civil law.
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What’s your dream? I want to be the first German-In-
What’s your favorite memory from your time at Strawberry Crest? My favorite memory would be in my law classes. I had the same teacher for three different law classes. We would do a lot of mock trials and, at the end of the year, I was so good and interested in it that she gave me a gavel. What advice would you give to an incoming freshman? I would tell them to participate in dual enrollment courses in HCC as soon as possible, and to never give up in your studies. Always push harder and further in everything you do. What’s something you learned at Strawberry Crest that will stay with you forever? Something that I learned was to never be late to any occasion, and to always never give up at anything you do. And try your hardest.
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dian judge on the Supreme Court. That’s my long-term goal.
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Briza Garibay Ramiro Gonzalez-Reyes Noe Gutierrez Jr. Mikayla Hall Diana Hamby Jasmine Haynes Tiffaney Henry Norma Hernandez lvann Herran Bianka Hill Daylon Hill Tanner Hill Haley Hubbard Roberto Ibarra Charles Johnson, Jr. Edgar Juarez, Jr. Tyreke Kerney Alexis Lamas Jared Lamondra Jonathan Lane Tanya Lawry Jonathan Lopez Brittany Matthews Kelsie McDermid Justin McGowan Diego Mendez Dereck Mendoza Alejandro Millan-Aguilar Jesus Montana Jr. Rommel Morales Isaiah Mueller Steele Novak
Johnny Ottinger II Mario Palomino Dillon Patrick Rachel Perez Jesus Pina Graciela Ponce Arnulfo Ramirez, Jr. Brandone Reed Tiffany Reeves Daniyal Rehman Mahnoor Rehman Alexander Richo Michael Ritcheson Lizvet Rodriguez Jasmine Sampson Alexis Sanchez Olivo Sandoval, Jr. Sean Sands Mauro Santos Ramirez Samantha Sester Angelica Solis Mackenzie Stafford Austin Sutton Muhammad Syed Zackary Thomas Danica Tindale Justin Torres Kagan Trice Siera Wallace Zackary Williams Saysha Woods
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Left: Krystal Castillo, Kalyn Hernandez and Claudia Daniel Below Left: Ivann Herran flashes a grin as he walks past family and friends to be seated. Below: Austin Buchanan
CONGRATULATIONS to the Graduating Seniors!
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