Plant City Observer 12.20.12

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PLANT CITY

You. Your neighbors. Your neighborhood.

INSIDE

Ever seen a 12-foot-tall poinsettia?

PAGE 3

OUR TOWN

+ Plant City junior wins essay contest Chase Dunn, a junior at Plant City High School, was the grand-prize winner of the the Tony Jannus Distinguished Aviation Society’s statewide essay contest.

Dunn was honored during a banquet Nov. 29, at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, in St. Petersburg.

He was accompanied by his parents, Jeff and Stacy Dunn, and the Plant City College and Career Counselor Sherrie Mueller.

Dunn’s winning essay was titled, “Soaring to New Heights: Tony Jannus’ Impact on Tampa Bay’s Development.”

He received three round-trip airline tickets to any destination in the United States served by Southwest Airlines.

He also was awarded with a check for $600.

Plant City junior James Orso took second place, and Abigail Baker, a sophomore, won third place.

FREE • thursday, DECEMBER 20, 2012

SPORTS

Merry Christmas!

Observer awards Plant City’s 2012 Gridiron Greats.

PAGE 11

‘Paw’sitive Environment that doggy (or Kitty) in the window

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

response

by Amber Jurgensen and Matt Mauney

Ben is named after a character in the cartoon “Ben 10 Alien Force.”

Spooky and Lucky love snoozing in the window display at Brown’s Floral Shop.

Five stores in Historic Downtown Plant City boast special four-legged employees. And no, they are not for sale.

With the Christmas season upon us, many have been busy bustling from store to store, picking up gifts, stocking stuffers and decorations. But, unlike massive chain stores and corporate retailers, five shops in Historic Downtown Plant City have a special furry friend greeting the customers — a shop pet. Four of the stores have dogs and one has two cats. Have you seen these little helpers while out shopping?

+ Manger scene inspires grandson Donna Barr, a resident of Plant City’s historic district, sent us this lovely photo of her grandson, Cameron, hugging baby Jesus in her outdoor manger scene.

“Every time he comes over, he runs to the manger and gives Mary and Joseph a big hug then bends to the ground and hugs baby Jesus,” she says. “We did not tell him to do this — he did it on his own.

“We love this picture and would like to share it with our community,” Barr says.

We love it, too! Merry Christmas!

Brown’s Floral Shop: Lucky and Spooky

The Corner Store: Ben

The cats at Brown’s Floral Shop, 106 E. Reynolds St., are dressed appropriately for the holiday season. The two step-brothers wear red and green collars made of dainty ribbon and bells that jingle wherever they paw around.

It’s hard to miss black and white Lucky when visiting the store. He’s the first of the two to come up to the front of the store and greet the customers.

“He’s our greeter,” employee Robyn Robinson says. “He greets everybody. He hears that

The first greeter at The Corner Store, 121 E. Reynolds St., isn’t an employee manning the register or standing at the door. Rather, it’s a relaxed beagle named Ben, who snoozes outside on the sidewalk in front of the café on most sunny days.

The 18-month-old dog was a birthday present for owner Cynthia Diaz’s son, Joe Thunder. The 5-year-old was promised a dog for his birthday by his grandfather.

“We pretty much had to follow through,” Diaz says.

The family got Ben from a breeder off State

SEE LUCKY AND SPOOKY / PAGE 4

SEE BEN / PAGE 4

INDEX Crossword.......... 14

Schools add precautions after Sandy Hook tragedy Elementary schools in Plant City and the rest of Hillsborough County were staffed with extra resource officers the week following the Newtown shooting.

Hillsborough County schools have taken extra precautions in the wake of the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn.

All Hillsborough County schools, including those in the Plant City area, are operating under modified lockdown procedures, which started Dec. 17.

Principals have been directed to keep all doors locked, including those into administrative offices.

Schools also have been directed to monitor who is coming onto campus and any outdoor activity, such as recess or physical education class, more closely. School resource officers, who are stationed permanently at all middle and high schools, also have been placed this week at all elementary schools. “(This) was more about reassuring the students and parents,” Stephen Hegarty, communications officer for Hillsborough

SEE PRECAUTIONS / PAGE 5

Haught hosts memorial service

Haught Funeral Home hosted a memorial service Dec. 18, to honor those affected by the Newtown shooting.

“I feel like this tragedy struck a chord with a lot of people around the country, and we would be remiss if we didn’t take a moment to remember those children and teachers that were lost,” owner David Wolf said.

The memorial was part of the business’ annual service to remember those who had died in the Plant City community. As part of the service, community members

SEE HAUGHT / PAGE 5 Vol. 1, No. 25 | One section

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

Opinion.................8

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

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

3

speak easy by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Trapnell students compete in speech contest Sidney Dunn won Trapnell’s 4-H Tropicana Speech Contest with a speech about the FCAT. If any of the eight speakers at Trapnell Elementary’s speech contest Dec. 14 were nervous, they certainly didn’t let it show.

There was no fidgeting, no rocking back and forth, and no freeze-ups. The contestants — all fifth-graders — spoke with poise, confidence and knowledge well beyond their years.

“They have guts,” former Trapnell Elementary teacher Amanda Long said. “I can’t even get up there and do that, because it is hard — especially to get up in front of your peers and do it.”

Long was one of three judges for the contest, sponsored annually by 4-H Tropicana. Pame-

la West, also a former Trapnell teacher, and Plant City Observer Associate Editor Amber Jurgensen joined her at the judge’s table.

The judges chose three winners. Sidney Dunn and her speech on the FCAT won first place.

“I’m very happy,” Sidney said.

“My brothers are always complaining about the FCAT, and it’s not always the funnest when you want to go play with your friends, and it’s your last year of elementary school, and you have to study. So I took all their complaints and put them in my speech.”

Second place went to Preston Howell, and Keilah Gadson won third place.

Students were judged in two major categories, composition and presentation. Criteria under the composition category included the topic of the speech, effective introduction, body and conclusion, use of language and time. Contestants also were judged on delivery, pronunciation, articulation, volume, speed and the audience bond.

Speeches had to be between two and three minutes, and students could pick any topic.

Reading teacher Patricia Campbell told her students the best speeches come from their hearts.

“It’s really neat to find out what they’re passionate about,” Campbell said.

Amber Jurgensen

Sidney Dunn, Keilah Gadson and Preston Howell took the top three prizes.

Students wrote about a variety of topics, including snakes, homework, texting and driving, child abuse, electric cars, FCAT testing, Day of the Dead and more.

“I like snakes a lot,” student Edward Haggins said. “I had fun,

and it was a little scary up there.

I’m not used to being in front of a lot of people like that.”

“The experience was good,” said Edith Garcia, who discussed the dangers of texting and driving. “I have been doing speeches a while. I also sang at a church concert a couple of weeks ago and did a talent show, so it wasn’t really scary.”

With the win, Sidney will go on to compete at the area competition in January.

“It’s an opportunity for students to participate in a good writing exercise,” Campbell said.

“It gives them an opportunity to show their passion and have an avenue to shine.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

safety first by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Seat belt demo clicks with Durant students A wrecked car will be displayed at the school until Christmas break as part of Buckle Up Week.

MONSTER PLANT

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Home-Grown Cheer

You can’t buy the Blankenships’ giant poinsettia bush at the store.

It’s massive. Red blooms flower bigger than a man’s fists. The bushy body monopolizes a section of fence about 19 feet long.

It’s not a monster. It’s a poinsettia plant.

Sitting in the corner of Ellen and Gary Blankenships’ side yard, the plant, about 12 feet tall, has attracted a lot of attention around the holidays for years. People learn about it and drive by the couple’s home on Walker Street off Grant Street to take pictures and see the giant for themselves.

The average height of a poinsettia is about 2 feet, but some can grow to 10 feet after many years. The Blankenships have been growing their poinsettia for 30 years.

Gary always had admired the 5-foot-tall poinsettia bush his mother-in-law, Versa Dorsey, had in her yard. One day, he cut off four branches of the shrub with his pocketknife and stuck them in the ground in his yard.

“I didn’t think it would make it; but he just stuck it in the ground, and that thing started growing,” Ellen says.

The plant, native to Mexico and Central America, thrived in the warm Florida climate. Year after year, it kept growing, until it became the mega-monster it is today. The couple says it was even bigger before frost stunted its growth about four years ago.

FAST FACT Poinsettia Day, Dec. 12, was named in honor of the death of Joel Roberts Poinsett, an ambassador to Mexico who brought the shrubs back to his plantation in South Carolina.

Even so, the bush is estimated to be about 35 feet in circumference and has started to grow over the fence it boarders. Around Thanksgiving is when it reaches its peak, with red blooms dotting the branches.

“We enjoy it, especially this time of year,” Gary says, standing in his favorite spot in the yard to view the plant. “It’s perfect for Christmas — the red and the green.”

To many, the Blankenships’ massive poinsettia bush is a festive reminder of the holidays, but to them it’s a reminder of much more. Dorsey died in 1996, and the plant serves as a beacon of her soul to the family.

“It was part of her,” Ellen says.

“That’s another reason I enjoy it, because we got it from Mama.

When she saw it growing, she was proud.”

Ellen’s 92-year-old father, Laurent, lives with the Blankenships and enjoys the plant, as well. The door to the addition in which he lives faces the poinset-

tia. Laurent walks out the door onto the stairs every morning to look at it.

“He admires it,” Ellen says. “I’m sure he’s thinking of my mom.”

The Blankenships are attached to the poinsettia. They talk to the plant, urging it to bloom and dedicating it to Dorsey. Gary fertilizes it every spring and waters it once a week in dry conditions.

“The key to planting one is to plant it against something,” Gary says.

Gary has given away four other poinsettias he has cultivated. He also tried to start one by a shed in his yard. But his grandson accidentally cut it with a lawn mower, and it died. It was about 4 feet tall, and Gary had shaped it into a sphere shape.

“It’s heartbreaking,” Gary says.

“I don’t like to show it or see it.”

Gary says he’ll try to revitalize the plant, but he is thankful he still has his first precious poinsettia. His favorite part of the plant is the blooms.

“I can’t wait until it blooms every year,” Gary says. “But I really love the double-bloom effect, where there are two flowers on one branch.”

“I go to Walmart and see the poinsettias and say, ‘Y’all aren’t as pretty as mine,’” Ellen says.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

If you visited Durant High School last week, you may have noticed something strange.

A wrecked car sits in front of one of the busiest student entrances to the school. Nearly 2,800 miniature crosses — signifying the number of teenagers who die in car crashes annually in the United States — were added to the grounds throughout the week. And on Dec. 13, more than 100 students went through the school day without uttering a single word.

The demonstrations were all part of Buckle Up Week, a campaign that stresses the importance of wearing a seat belt, especially among teenagers, who are among the worst offenders.

The campaign was scheduled right before the winter break, when students may be more careless when behind the wheel.

“As a mother and a teacher, it’s an issue that I’m very strong on,” said Courtney Singletary, the sponsor of Durant’s Student Government Association.

The wrecked car that sits in front of the school is from an actual Tampa Bay area teenage driving accident in which the driver failed to fasten their seat belt. Textbooks and homework still are sprawled out on the floor of the mangled car, and the keys remain in the ignition.

“It’s interesting to overhear students talking to each other about it,” Singletary said. “It definitely gets their attention and gets them thinking.”

Singletary has been involved with the program for several years, and her students have gone to great lengths to spread the message to buckle up.

“Unfortunately, we’ve had several student accident deaths here at Durant over the years,” she said, noting that for about a 10-year span, the school averaged one death per year. “Luckily, that stat has gone down the last few years.”

Singletary noted students were wearing seat belts in many of those cases but said the danger increased exponentially if they failed to buckle up.

Buckle Up Week is a partnership between Hillsborough County Public Schools and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. Schools county-wide participated in weeklong effort.

Students involved with the campaign have used a variety of approaches throughout the years, but the efforts this year were especially unique.

On Dec. 13, Durant held a “Blackout Day,” during which students dressed in all black. A total of 120 students wore tombstone necklaces around their necks, signifying that they were “dead” and thus could not speak for the entire day.

“It’s a unique way to get the point across,” Singletary said.

The number represents the average number of teenage driving deaths in Florida each year.

In addition to posters throughout the school and other marketing efforts, students passed out candy to drivers wearing their seat belts when lined up in the parking lot for dismissal and would not let students leave until they buckled up.

As part of Buckle Up Week, the “Battle of the Belts” campaign pits schools county-wide against one another to see which school is the best at buckling up.

Student drivers at county schools participated in three secret checks. Seat-belt usage is counted and averaged, and the schools with the highest success rate split a $5,000 reward from Geico.

The final belt check occurred this week, and the winners will be announced in January. Durant scored a perfect 100% in its first check last week.

Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver. com.

4 PlantCityObserver.com

Plant city observer

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

LUCKY AND SPOOKY/PAGE 1

Millie’s Gift Shop: Oliver

door open and comes up. He’s very friendly and talks to you.”

Lucky was found when he was 6 months old outside of the old Brown’s Floral Shop near South Florida Baptist Hospital. He came around, because owner Debbie Clark fed the feral cats. Lucky, always friendly, was taken into the store after Clark’s old shop cat, Sassy, died. Now 3, Lucky is a perfect liaison between the customers and employees.

“He can tell when a customer is sad,” Clark says. “He always comes up to them and tries to comfort them.”

Lucky’s companion, Spooky, is a shy, black cat. Spooky and his sibling were left in a box at the field next to the old floral shop around Halloween. Clark heard them crying and took them in. She bottle-fed Spooky and his sibling. The sibling died, but Spooky survived.

“Customers love them,” Clark says.

Another rescue dog, a Yorkshire terrier named Oliver, captured Millie’s Gift Shop owner Dina Williams’ heart when she rescued and adopted him. He was abused and underweight.

Now, Oliver has his own bed, perched up on the counter next to the register at Millie’s, 111 S. Collins St., where he can watch for customers entering the store.

Once the bells on the door jingle, his head perks up immediately followed by friendly and curious barks.

“I’m a huge animal person,” Williams says. “Between Oliver and my cats, decorating and antiques — those are my biggest passions.”

Before Oliver, Williams had another Yorkie named Mugsy, who would come to the shop with her. When Mugsy died at 17, Williams adopted Oliver and began taking him to her shop in Valrico.

“He was right in there,” Williams said.

“I got him in the swing of things.”

BEN/PAGE 1 Road 60. A friend advised Joe to pick up each dog by the scruff of the neck and see which one doesn’t yelp.

And that’s exactly what he did.

“He’s like our mascot now,” Diaz says. “We do have people who just come in to see him.”

Named after a cartoon show, Ben is a wellknown downtown icon. According to Diaz, a customer during this year’s Christmas Parade asked Diaz if they still had the little beagle. She hadn’t been to Plant City in a year and still remembered Ben. Ben draws a crowd of admirers. During November’s Strawberry Classic Car Show, Ben drew the biggest crowd yet, when four 12-year-old boys stole him from in front of the store. Within minutes, customers, employees and car show attendees were out looking for the dog, which they found with the boys six blocks away.

Happy that he’s back, Diaz no longer takes him to the store on busier days. But on most days, he’s outside enjoying the attention.

Lucky loves to play with his bear toy.

Lark Photo and Framing: Lucky It was an accident that the owners of Lark Photo and Framing, 102 W. Reynolds St., ended up owning a cheerful Havanese dog. One day this spring, Lucy Schultz was trying to cross the intersection at Reynolds and Collins streets. She saw a dog running in the street.

At first, she tried to call him over, but he didn’t come. After bending down and calling again, the puppy came. He was groomed, wasn’t hungry and had no microchip or tags, leading Schultz to believe he was lost or abandoned.

“We’ve never seen him,” Schultz said.

“It’s a small town. We see people walking their dogs, and I’ve never seen him.”

Schultz and her husband, Mark, took the dog to numerous groomers and veterinarians in the area to see if they recognized the dog. They also posted flyers. But no one claimed the canine.

It’s been seven months since they found the white furball, and the Schultzes have happily adopted the dog into their home, naming him Lucky.

“I never wanted to get a dog, (because) we’re always working,” Schultz said. “But, when he’s here, it works. People come here just to meet him. They bring him treats.”

At 18 months old, Lucky is so well known with Lark Photo and Framing’s customers that Lucky recently had a play date with one customer’s cocker spaniels.

“He’s a perfect companion dog,” Schultz says.

Williams’ customers love seeing Oliver, named after Oliver Twist. He’s come a long way from his shy self, according to his owner. Now, instead of peeking his head around the corner when customers come in, the eight-pound pup greets them at the door or watches them from his bed, front and center.

“They so look forward to seeing him,” Williams says. “They always ask how he is. It seems to brighten their day when they see him.”

Steven L. Sparkman Law Firm: Kali There’s another perfect companion dog at 102 W. Reynolds St. Upstairs from Photo Lark and Framing is the Steven L. Sparkman Law Firm, where a Jack Russell terrier/beagle mix named Kali sits with her adopted mother, Terry Sparkman, at the front desk.

“She loves to come up here,” Sparkman says. “She thinks this is her job.”

The couple’s son rescued her from the pound in Tennessee. He kept her for four years until he could no longer care for her. That’s when the Sparkmans stepped in.

The 8-year-old likes to chase the squirrels in the parking lot before heading up to the office. On the way

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Then, she heads up to her cozy bed behind the receptionist’s desk.

Kali wears her feelings on her sleeves and is protective of her owners. She will jump in Sparkman’s lap to see what’s going on when clients come into the office.

The Sparkmans have her at the office most days for about a halfday. But they don’t take her to the office on days when they have to meet with clients for will signings and other business matters.

Kali’s favorite aspect about work is watching the squirrels in the trees outside in the parking lot.

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Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

PRECAUTIONS/PAGE 1

5

HAUGHT/PAGE 1

County Public Schools, said. “We didn’t expect anything to happen. After seeing what happened on Friday and the developments over the weekend, we wanted to assure parents and students that our schools are a safe place.”

In addition, counselors, psychologists and staff are available at each school.

The safety measures will last through the end of the week. The district is currently in discussions with local law enforcement officials regarding the resource officers, but they, too, likely will be gone from elementary schools by the end of the week.

Each resource officer’s salary is split between the school district and the officer’s agency. Currently, the district contracts with the Plant City Police Department, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Tampa Police Department and Temple Terrace Police Department. Hegarty said he did not know how many the district currently utilizes but that the district has allocated more than $4 million for resource officers for the 2012-13 school year.

Sgt. Christi Esquinaldo has been with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office’s Schools Resources Section for two-andone-half years and has spent 16 years total at the Sheriff’s Office.

Esquinaldo said having resource officers on campus “absolutely deters criminal activity from taking place,” adding that there have been instances during which guns, drugs and gang activity have been reported on campuses at middle and high schools.

Esquinaldo mentioned several programs that focus on keeping students safe. One program currently in development is the district’s site-profile program, which provides aerial photos and important phone numbers for every school to help first responders in the case of an emergency.

The Plant City Police Department also planned to increase its presence at area schools during the week and, hopefully, beyond, Sgt. Tray Towles said.

On the morning of Dec. 17, the patrol division received a memorandum to check

can come by and dedicate a linen angel with a name to remember their lost loved ones. According to Wolf, this year’s tree also will have 26 extra angels to honor the 20 children and six teachers and staff who were killed.

Those angels will be sent to a local funeral home in Newtown.

Haught Funeral Home also offers free grief counseling materials. These materials help educate parents about how to talk to their children about death.

The funeral home also is offering a chance for Plant City residents to view and sign a register book that will be forwarded to city leaders in Newtown.

The book will be available to sign through the end of the year. all schools in their zones throughout the day, be present during the start and finish of the school day and fill out their paperwork in school parking lots.

“Visibility is a huge factor,” Towles said.

“If you put more police there to be visible, it will be helpful to deter any activity.”

Currently, the school district does not have a set standard regarding safety precautions at each campus, Hegarty said.

“We have some (schools) that are 100 years old; some are very modern,” Hegarty said.

Parent Bart Borders, who has two children at Walden Lake Elementary and two at Plant City High, said he hopes the Hillsborough district increases security following the tragedy.

“All schools, elementary to high school, should have an armed officer as a resource on campus,” he said. “After what happened, it would be foolish not to.”

Many schools in Plant City have a buzzer system. Each visitor must be buzzed in at the school’s entrance and report to the main office. It’s a similar system to that of Sandy Hook Elementary.

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6 PlantCityObserver.com WINTER SHOW

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23

Plant city observer

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

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Rita Hattab, director of development at MacDonald Training Center, and Marian Winters, executive director of VSA Florida, accepted scholarships on behalf of their organizations.

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East Hillsborough Art Guild members showed their best work at the guild’s annual Christmas Show Dec. 6, at Walden Lake Golf and Country Club.

Attendees sipped wine and enjoyed browsing through about 100 pieces at this year’s show. The works of art, which ranged in price from $20 to $3,500, varied from watercolor to oil, abstract to realism.

“A lot of times, we’re working independently on our artwork, and this is one of the few times out of the year when we get to share what we’ve been working on,” said Colleen Justin, event chair. “It’s a very fun event.”

At the end of the night, two $500 scholarships were awarded to the MacDonald Training Center and VSA Florida.

“We have, in the past, given to the universities and high schools and, this time, decided to go in a different direction,” said

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Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

reason for the season

7

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

l

loca

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local Performers depicted the traditional nativity scene on the side stage.

First Baptist Church production depicts true meaning of holiday

The production featured many musicians and singers.

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Plant City’s First Baptist Church welcomed hundreds to its performances of “The Light of Christmas” Dec. 14 to 16.

The production featured a full orchestra comprising members of the church as well as professional musicians. An entertaining light show set to live music started the show, while a gospel chorus performed.

Soloists performed on the center stage, while actors silently portrayed the birth of Jesus. On the other side of the stage, performers depicted modern Christmas activities, such as gathering around a Christmas tree and soldiers opening gifts from home.

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Performers also depicted modern Christmas traditions.

8 PlantCityObserver.com

Observer

PLANT CITY

“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

Founding Publisher / Felix Haynes Managing Editor / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editors / (Community) Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@ PlantCityObserver.com; (Sports) Matt Mauney, mmauney@PlantCityObserver. com Advertising Executives / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@PlantCityObserver. com; Ronda Kyler, rkyler@ PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Coordinator / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com Accounting Manager / Petra Kirkland, pkirkland@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising-Production Operations Manager / Kathy Payne, kpayne@ yourobserver.com Advertising-Production Coordinator / Brooke Schultheis, bschultheis@ yourobserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Peter Carlson, pcarlson@yourobserver. com; Monica DiMattei, mdimattei@ yourobserver.com; Marjorie Holloway, mholloway@yourobserver.com; Luis Trujillo, ltrujillo@yourobserver.com; Chris Stolz, cstolz@yourobserver.com

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Plant city observer

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

observed | Newtown tragedy

Hyperlocal coverage keeps town at heart The sun had almost completely The Bee covered the tragedy set by the time my wife and I arthe only way it knew how — with rived at our children’s preschool care and compassion for the to pick them up Dec. 14. residents of Newtown. HowAs we entered their classroom, ever, as reporting from national I stood in the doorway for just a and international news outlets second, taking in our 2-year-old flooded the small town, a backdaughter, Aria, and 4-year-old lash began to build. Some viewed son, Lyric, before they caught certain photos and interviews us watching. Then, we scooped — particularly ones that featured them up and buckled them children — as intrusive into our minivan. and damaging. JourWe kept the TV and nalists fought back, computers off. And, like arguing that, in some many parents, we gave them cases, the children were extra hugs at bedtime. They the only witnesses. They crawled into their beds, were there to document blissfully unaware of the history, they said. In the horror that had occurred. spirit of news, it was With our two children their duty. safe, I reopened my laptop In some ways, I see MICHAEL and dug through dozens their point. Some of the ENG of reports in an attempt to most poignant stories piece together what actually — of slain teacher Victohad taken place that morning at ria Soto, who hid her students Sandy Hook Elementary School. in a bathroom closet and placed As I read more about Newtown, herself between them and the Conn., its similarities to our city shooter; and of the student who became strikingly clear. A tightclaimed he knew karate and knit town of about 28,000 resiwould protect his classmates dents, Newtown is a community — may never have been told rich in history. Despite its close without the press. Furthermore, proximity to major metropolitan the news has prompted school areas, its small-town feel makes it districts throughout the country an attractive home for families. to reexamine their safety precauNewtown has one Starbucks tions — including right here at and one public library. It has home (see story, page 1). a famous American flag that On Monday morning, I met waves from a pole installed in with our reporters to listen to the middle of the intersection of their take. Like The Newtown Main Street, Church Hill Road Bee’s Hicks, our own reporters and West Street. would be among the first to arrive Newtown residents get their on scene if, God forbid, somenews from The Newtown Bee, a thing similar occurred in Plant home-owned community weekly City. But where would we draw newspaper much like the one you the line? When does reporting are holding today. Before Friday, become harassment?

The Newtown Bee was filling Turns out, the answer was its December pages with tree posted on The Newtown Bee’s lightings, Christmas concerts, de- Facebook page Monday morning. cisions made by its local govern“On behalf of the entire staff ment officials and, of course, high of The Bee — we are imploring school sports.

ALL our colleagues and journalSound familiar? ists to PLEASE STAY AWAY FROM When news of the shooting THE VICTIMS,” The Bee stated. came across the police scanner, “We acknowledge it is your right Bee Editor Curtiss Clark sent to try and make contact, but we Associate Editor Shannon Hicks beg you to do what is right and over to the school to investigate. let them grieve and ready their She was one of the first journalfuneral plans in peace.” ists on the scene, and her photo Within hours, the post was of students being led from the shared more than 400 times and school is on pace to be one of the garnered hundreds of comments most shared pictures in Twitter from those who matter the most history.

— the residents of Newtown (see

COMMISSIONER’S UPDATE

sidebar). Some of the accounts were sickening — the antithesis of the kind of journalism we practice at the Plant City Observer.

Others were desperate pleas for privacy, for time to grieve and heal.

Clark said the original post is a reflection of a clear delineation between community journalism and national media outlets.

“Our mission is primarily to serve our community,” he said.

“And you don’t do that by trampling on people’s privacy.”

Clark said the tragedy has hit his newsroom hard — and especially his education reporter, who knew all six adults who were killed and several of the children.

“It was hellish,” he said. “We were trying to do our job while neck-deep in grief.”

As a weekly that hits homes on Fridays, last week’s edition of The Bee already had gone to press. So, Clark’s staff utilized its website and Facebook and Twitter pages to publish information. The paper also pulled double-duty last weekend to publish a special edition. And, The Bee is doing all of this with dozens of satellite trucks and countless reporters invading its home turf.

“We’re getting calls every few minutes,” Clark said. “Because we’re the local guys with the contacts, everyone wants us to work on their stories with them, but we have our own stories to do.”

Furthermore, when the circus finally does pack up, Newtown — and its paper — still will have to endure the consequences.

“We happen to know these people,” Clark said. “We’ll have to face these people at Starbucks next week and a couple of months from now. If what we are doing is causing anguish and pain, and if we’re not letting them grieve, then that poisons the well.

We live here.”

So, to the media still scouring the homes and streets of Newtown: You don’t need another sound byte, another interview.

You don’t need another child to tell you about the “loud bangs.”

You’ve delivered the story — all the way around the world. We’ve received the message here in Plant City. Time to move on.

Show some humanity.

Editor’s note: Names have been withheld from these comments on The Newtown Bee’s Facebook page.

• “I had a person from CBS news lie to me and say she was a friend of one of the grieving mothers. She came with a plant, and so we let her on the property, only to find out she was with the news. Some of these people just don’t have a soul.”

• “PLEASE GO AWAY AND LET US ALL HEAL! Pray for us from afar. Send your well wishes from your own home.

Get the trucks, vans and cameras away from us. Move along, please!”

• “Is anyone else getting calls from the Washington Post?

We lost a couple of our neighbors on my block, and I think they’re just calling people randomly looking for comments. Two calls so far.”

• “The phone calls from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. need to stop.

And coming to my doorstep was completely out of line.

LEAVE US ALL ALONE.” • “I will be more than angry if they also invade the children trying to start their new school. I am driving my boy that day, and I will be damned if someone sticks a camera in the faces of those kids.”

• “Allow them to grieve in peace. Send your prayers, not your employees.”

• “We will not be able to heal as a town until the media leaves! We appreciate the prayers from all over the world but just want our town back.”

• “This is not your average mass murder. The victims are mainly all small children.

Please let the families grieve and stop looking for possible coverage into the lives of the families. They were normal people like everyone else.”

• “Leave this poor town alone. If they need anything, they will let you know ...”

by Al Higginbotham

Gift of giving key for holiday season The late journalist Eric Sevareid once said, “Christmas is a necessity. There has to be at least one day of the year to remind us that we’re here for something else besides ourselves.”

This holiday season, I have had the great pleasure of serving as the chairman for the 40 Years Drive for Metropolitan Ministries, in Tampa. In each event we’ve held, I have met new people from all walks of life, both with a helping hand extended and a hand outreached for help.

From each one of them, I have found a genuine desire to better the world in the role they play.

On Dec. 6, more than 300 businessmen and women joined Metropolitan Ministries at the Breakfast of Business Champions, donating toys and food as an important part of the holiday assistance for 25,900 families

RESIDENTS’ REACTIONS

Courtesy photo

Commissioner Al Higginbotham spoke of his life-changing injury at the Metropolitan Ministries’ Breakfast of Business Champions. in need. I was invited to speak about the life-changing injury that led to my paralysis and my

recent climb of White Mountain in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range.

That morning, I was reminded that each one of us can do our part, no matter how small, to help someone else. As I walked through the aisles of food the community had donated, I was impressed by the Tampa Bay residents and their thoughtfulness.

Here, we are blessed to have the United Food Bank of Plant City. It is my hope that as we celebrate with our families, attend our church services and give gifts to one another, we also remember those who need our help. Please donate, be it a toy, food or monetary donation, to the food bank and its families in need. For details on what and how to contribute, call the bank at (813) 764-0625.

May peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through!

Al Higginbotham is the county commissioner for District 4. He can be reached at (813) 272-5740 or by email, HigginbothamA@ hillsboroughcounty.org.

Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

meal deal

9

holiday cheer by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Santa’s sleigh makes early appearance at Plant City Y Jolly Old St. Nick took an early trip Dec. 15, from the North Pole, to meet with Plant City children during the Plant City Family YMCA’s Breakfast with Santa. Children devoured pancakes, made Christmas ornaments and, of course, shared their lists with Santa himself.

Sabrina Bradley, Carissa Rodriguez and Shannon Bradley were full of holiday cheer.

Breakfast with Santa a hit for First United Methodist Dozens of Plant City children enjoyed a special meal Dec. 8, during First United Methodist Church of Plant City’s Breakfast with Santa.

It was the eighth year for the event, which gives families an opportunity

Anelisse and Anyssa Castillo loved visiting with Santa.

Katie Rhodes, 9, had fun coloring.

Diane Page with Hailee, 1, and Marc, 3

to enjoy breakfast and activities — including having their picture taken with Santa himself.

Activities also included coloring and cookie decorating. Music was provided by the Spirit Singers, and children were

Adysen and Haidyn Young liked all of the activities and getting to meet Santa.

told the story of the true meaning of Christmas.

“That’s what we really want to get out of this event,” said FUMC Children’s Director Shawna Cook. “We want to spread the message of that story to the children.”

Jira Green and Daniella Duarte

From Our Family to Yours,

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Plant city observer

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

OBSERVEROBITUARIES Elizabeth Alice Boruff

Elizabeth Alice Boruff, 68, of Lakeland, died Dec. 9, at her home.

Born March 24, 1944, in Dover, she was the daughter of the late Claude Holder and the late Jelemma Peeples Holder.

Survivors include a daughter, Alice Elliott; brother, Charles Holder; and sister, Patsy Gaskins.

Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Calvin Ellis Jr.

Calvin Ellis Jr., 83, of Plant City, died Dec. 10, at South Florida Baptist Hospital.

He was a veteran of the U.S. military and a retired chemist with Exxon Petroleum.

Eugene Johnson

Eugene Johnson, 88, of Dover, died Dec.

Born Feb. 14, 1924, in Opp, Ala., he was the son of the late Homer Johnson and the late Ruth Hendrix Johnson. He was the husband of Audrey Haynes Johnson.

Mr. Johnson was the owner of Johnson Tire Company, in Tampa, a 32nd-degree mason at John Darling Masonic Lodge.

He also was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Army in Europe and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for gallantry in action.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Rena Lynn McGinnis.

Survivors include sons, Roger (Cheryl) and Ralph Johnson; daughter, Reita (Truman) Gillette; brothers, Harold and Donnie Ray Johnson; grandchildren, Jenna Johnson, Melissa Gillette, Mandy Cook and Mike McGinnis; and three greatgrandchildren.

Interment will be in Florida National Cemetery.

The family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Shriners Children’s Hospital at 1-800-241-GIFT, or Shriners International Headquarters,

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.

Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Eva C. Standard

Eva C. Standard, 72, of Plant City, died Dec. 4.

She was born Aug. 14, 1940, in Valrico, to George and Maude (Anderson) Rowell.

Mrs. Standard was a member of First Baptist Church of Dover for 48 years and held several positions, including working in the church library.

Survivors include her husband of 54 years, Albert Standard; one son, Harold Standard; two daughters, Nola Gay Nash (Peter) and Neina Sue Hurlburt (Mike); four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made in her memory to the church library.

Donny Wright

Donny Wright, 45, died Sept. 17.

A memorial service will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 30, at Edward Medard Park and Reservoir, 6140 Turkey Creek Road, Plant City.

Joel M. Zazulia

Joel M. Zazulia, 38, of Plant City, died Dec. 5, 2012.

Survivors include his wife of 14 years, Danielle; children, Lucas, Julian and Raiannah, of Plant City; father and stepmother, Arnold and Amy Zazulia, of Plant City; brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard and Deborah of Skowhegan, Maine, and Alan and Debbie, of New Orleans; sister and brother-in-law, Iylene and Jeffrey Miller, of Valrico; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 12502 USF Pine Drive, Tampa, FL 33612.

Matt Mauney

Plant City Community Choir Executive and Artistic Director Joseph Mendolia was one of the conductors of the concert.

Christmas by Candlelight features holiday harmony Guests were entertained by a night full of Christmas songs as the Plant City Community Choir presented its Christmas by Candlelight program Dec. 8, at Evangelical Presbyterian Church.

The concert is the same show performed at the Candlelight Processional event at Walt Disney World.

This is the fourth year the Plant City Community Choir will perform at Disney and the second year the same show was performed in Plant City.

The 16-song show featured a large choir and, for the first time, a full orchestra.

Songs ranged from notable favorites, such as “Joy to the World” and “Silent Night,” to

other Christian favorites, such as “Away in a Manger” and “Rejoice with Exceeding Great Joy.” The evening was led by conductors Joseph Mendolia, Peter Belk and Claudia Bolano. Mendolia is the executive and artistic director for the Plant City Community Choir. Narrators for the evening included Plant City Commissioner Bill Dodson and Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Plant City Pastor Scott Lingle.

The choir comprises PCCC members and members of other choirs, including the South Florida Collegiate Singers and the University of South Florida Honors Chorus.

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Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | SENIORS | COMMUNITY | TENNIS

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Quentin Robinson wins defensive award. 12

PLANTCITYObserver.com

show me the mauney

Holiday hoopla and hoop dreams As other students are out enjoying winter break, players on our high school basketball ball teams will be putting themselves to the test in holiday tournaments.

The Strawberry Crest boys basketball team will lead the way, when the Chargers compete two notable tournaments. First, they’ll bring their game to the Bright House Sports Network Shootout Dec. 20, at Clearwater High School.

The Chargers MATT will open that MAUNEY tournament at 5 p.m., when they take on Mitchell High. The tournament, which features some of the best teams from around the state and even outof-state teams, will continue through Dec. 22.

After Christmas, Strawberry Crest will head south for the Adidas Holiday Slam Dec. 27 to 29, in Miami. The Chargers kick off the tournament against Southridge High at 2 p.m. Dec. 27, before facing either Freedom or University High School Dec. 28.

As with the Bright House Shootout, Strawberry Crest will be put to the test against stiff competition in Miami.

Playing in these kinds of tournaments is big for SCHS, a growing program in just its fourth year of existence.

Speaking of teams on the rise, the Strawberry Crest girls’ team is also off to a solid start. The Lady Chargers also will be in action in the Seffner Christian Academy Christmas Tournament Dec. 21 and 22. They open the tournament at 3 p.m. Dec. 21, against the Academy of the Holy Names. Then, they face either First Baptist or Seffner Christian Dec. 22.

The other area basketball team that will be in action over the holidays is the Plant City High boys team. Just two days after Christmas, the Raiders will play in the George Jenkins X-mas Tournament Dec. 27, at George Jenkins High School, in Lakeland.

The Raiders have gotten off to a rough start this season, but this tournament could be a great way to get Dale Chambers’ team in shape and prepared for what lies ahead in the new year, when the heart of the district schedule begins.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

GRIDIRON GREATS OBSERVER 2012 FOOTBALL AWARDS

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

There was no shortage of highlights this past high school football season in the Plant City area.

There were notable moments, great plays and thrilling games throughout the season. The team achievements and great moments wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for the talented athletes themselves. All the football players deserve recognition in their own right, but the Plant City Observer has narrowed down a select few that meant a great deal to their team’s success.

Categories include Offensive Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year (honoring the area’s top underclassman, freshman or sophomore, playing and/or starting on varsity for the first time.

Our top award, Player of the Year, honors an area player who not only put up impressive stats but also served as the most valuable player on his team.

Congratulations to all our winners — and all of their teammates, as well. We look forward to a new season in 2013 full of great plays and highlights.

PLAYER OF THE YEAR Karel Hamilton

After a tough 1-9 season in 2011, the Strawberry Crest football team was looking for answers. Because he had taught at the school since it opened in 2009, new head coach John Kelly already was familiar with many of the players.

And before the season even began, he knew who his playmaker was going to be.

“We know that we have to find ways to get his hands on the football as much as possible,” Kelly said about senior Karel Hamilton.

To say Hamilton did it all for the Chargers this year would be a gross understatement. A natural wide receiver, Hamilton shined at that position, bringing down big catch after big catch all season long.

SEE K. HAMILTON / PAGE 13

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

SCHOOL: Strawberry Crest HEIGHT: 6-1 WEIGHT: 190 CLASS: Senior POSITIONS: WR/S/ KR/PR STAT LINE: 1,629 all-purpose yards, 13 total TD, 21 tackles, 1 INT, 2 FF

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

Randy Baker

Tavares Chase

SCHOOL: Durant High HEIGHT: 5-9 WEIGHT: 155 CLASS: Senior POSITION: DB STAT LINE: 100 tackles, 2 INT, 5 FR

SCHOOL: Plant City HEIGHT: 6-1 WEIGHT: 160 CLASS: Freshman POSITION: WR STAT LINE: 466 receiving yards, 2 total TD

It’s rare to find a fullback who puts up big offensive numbers. Then again, it’s rare for a team to have a player like Durant’s Jamarlon Hamilton.

It’s interesting to think that just a few years ago, when Hamilton was a freshman, he was considered a defensive lineman.

Coaches described him as a pudgy, outof-shape kid, and when he was moved to fullback, he often would get confused on which direction to run.

“He didn’t know his right from his left,” head coach Mike Gottman said. “We had to put ‘R’ and ‘L’ on his shoes.”

Hamilton is worlds apart from that now.

Coming into the season, there were some questions regarding Durant’s defense. The Cougars lost several key players to graduation, and head coach Mike Gottman was given the task of filling those voids.

Several guys were switched around, asked to play both sides of the ball and given more playing time on defense.

A few of the key defensive guys returning for Durant — Tyler Moody and Zach Hoffman — along with newcomer Dontriel Perry, all were expected to have big years and all lived up to those expectations.

But it was a 5-foot-9 senior defensive back that helped set the tone all season for

In what became a rebuilding year for the Plant City Raiders, a host of future stars emerged.

The one that seemed to standout the most, a freshman, didn’t look like a freshman at all. Tavares Chase came on the scene and made an immediate impact in the Raiders passing game.

The 6-foot-1, 160-pound receiver led all Plant City wideouts with 466 yards on just 19 catches. That’s a 24.5 yard average per catch, which also ranks the highest on the team, ahead of senior Joe Davis (374 yards), who had 28 catches, and junior Landon Galloway (360 yards), who had 32 grabs this season.

SEE J. HAMILTON / PAGE 13

SEE BAKER / PAGE 13

SEE CHASE / PAGE 13

Jamarlon Hamilton SCHOOL: Durant High HEIGHT: 5-10 WEIGHT: 235 CLASS: Senior POSITION: FB STAT LINE: 1,340 rushing yards, 20 TD

12 PlantCityObserver.com

Plant city observer

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

athlete of the week

soccer by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Quentin Robinson Quentin Robinson sure knows how to make a quick impression. The Plant City High School senior was named the Defensive Player of the Game for the East team at this year’s Hillsborough County All-Star Game, held Dec. 15, at Raymond James Stadium. This was the defensive lineman’s first year playing high school football and his first time playing organized tackle football in three years. Robinson finished his only year with the Raiders with 33 total tackles and three sacks. Plant City’s Devyn Salmon and Seth Crowell joined Robinson at this year’s All-Star game.

Richard Trottier and Steve Pennington are members of the inaugural Plant City boys team in 1981.

Right: Class of 2012 members Jose Lopez, Justin Keel, Brennan Smith, Addison Killebrew and Cameron Roberts joined in on Alumni Night. Smith is currently playing for Rollins College, while Roberts plays for Palm Beach Atlantic University.

PCHS soccer celebrates alumni

How did you like being named defensive player of the game?

It was surprising. I felt like I made some mistakes at first, but then I felt myself improving out there. But when they called my name, it was a big shock.

It was an eventful night for Plant City High soccer Dec. 14, as the girls program celebrated Senior Night and the boys team held its second annual Alumni Night.

After Senior Night festivities, which honored the Lady Raiders’ three seniors — Kellee Brown, Nidia Castro and Nidia Gutierrez — the

Having never played high school football before, what was it like playing in an All-Star game?

I felt like I was big time. It was cool getting to play against some great players, such as the Armwood quarterback.

to two goals by junior Aldair Moralez-Sanchez. Senior Noah Shaffer picked up both assists for the Chargers.

Plant City recognized alumni of the program. Former players in attendance included those from teams as far back as the inaugural 1981 team to 2012 graduates.

Was it nice having two teammates there?

Yeah. I always wanted to be able to play with those guys in something like this, so I loved it.

Do you want to play in college, and have any shown interest in you?

Yes. My coach said there have been some, but I’m not sure (which ones).

Do you have a dream school?

I really like Georgia Tech, and I also like Florida.

What makes you like Georgia Tech?

I have a cousin, Michael Johnson, (who played there) and now plays for the Cincinnati Bengals. I just loved that whole defense from the line to the safeties.

Do you get to talk to your cousin often?

Every now and then.

What advice has he given you?

Just to keep working hard and to always stay focused.

How would you explain the way you play?

I don’t take the offensive line lightly. I give it all and try to get after the quarterback and watch the ball.

What made you decide to play your first year of high school football as a senior?

I just wanted to focus on grades and getting everything right, so my senior year, I could just play football.

How long have you been playing football?

I’ve been playing since I was 5 or 6 but haven’t played the last couple years after youth football.

What has the biggest adjustment been?

Just learning all the plays and new stances and how to come off the ball.

98784

Plant City girls got a big 2-0 win over rival Strawberry Crest.

Christina Gutierrez and Kelle Brown scored the two goals for the Lady Raiders in the final five minutes of what appeared to be a stalemate of a game.

In the boys game, Strawberry Crest defeated Plant City 2-0, thanks

Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

K. HAMILTON/PAGE 11

BAKER/PAGE 11

The senior finished with 948 receiving yards and 10 touchdown grabs. He was the favorite target for sophomore quarterback Tristan Hyde, who connected with him 59 times and helped catapult the young QB to a breakout season.

“He can make a good quarterback look great,” Hyde said after one of the games this season. “If you can find a way to throw it in his direction, he’s going to come down with it.”

But it didn’t stop there.

As the most talented athlete on this year’s Chargers team, Kelly put Hamilton in as many positions to succeed as possible — and he didn’t disappoint.

As a student of the game, Hamilton used his knowledge of route running to lock down the Chargers secondary as a safety, rotating in and out on defense when opponents faced passing situations. Hamilton finished the year with 21 total tackles and had an interception in a close 32-24 loss to perennial power Hillsborough and two forced fumbles Sept. 7, against Bloomingdale.

Hamilton also was a standout on the third phase of the game, special teams, as a punt and kickoff returner. He used his speed and vision to accumulate 140 yards in punt returns, for nearly an 11-yard average. Hamilton was even more brilliant on kickoffs, as he averaged nearly 30 yards per return for a total of 445 yards.

In a 76-7 blowout of Leto, Hamilton returned a kick 98 yards for a score and also had a 55-yard punt return for a touchdown — all in the first half.

Perhaps Hamilton’s shining moment came during an away game against a good Sickles team. After Hyde left the game with a concussion at the end of the first half, Kelly looked to Hamilton to lead his team. Playing quarterback, Hamilton ran a wildcat-style offense and drove the Chargers down the field to pulled his team within three points with a 13-yard run. Hamilton had 50 yards rushing and 32 receiving yards in what became a 38-17 loss, but it showcased a remarkable talent for Strawberry Crest.

“What more can you say about him?” Kelly asked after that game. “You can put him at any position, and he’s the best athlete on the field.”

Hamilton finished his final year with the Chargers with 1,629 all-purpose yards and 13 total touchdowns, but more than that, he helped start a new era at Strawberry Crest.

The Chargers went 4-6 and went toe-to-toe with district powers Armwood, Sickles and Hillsborough for the first time in program history.

Considered one of the most underrated and under-recruited players in the Tampa Bay area, Hamilton got his first offer Oct. 25, from Samford University, in Birmingham, Ala. He has since received offers from the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, Coastal Carolina University and Jacksonville University.

a devastating Durant defense.

Randy Baker led the Cougars this season with 100 total tackles (54 solo, 46 assists). He also had two interceptions on the year to go along with five fumble recoveries, which led his team. Those two interceptions came in key wins over Wharton and rival Plant City.

Baker solidified an athletic secondary that also featured J.J. Garrett, Terry Grimsley and Paxton Sims, along with others. That secondary was supposed to be a strong point of the Durant defense this year, but it’s safe to say Baker’s performance exceeded expectations.

His 8.3 tackles per game led a Cougars defense that

J. HAMILTON/PAGE 11 He became a breakout star his sophomore season, had an even better year in 2011 and capped off his high school career with his best season yet.

Hamilton carried the ball 191 times for 1,350 yards and accounted for 20 touchdowns this season in what was the most successful season to date for the Durant program.

The Cougars went a perfect 10-0 in the regular season for the first time in school history. They would finish the year 11-1 after losing a hard-fought game against district rival Newsome in the region semifinals.

Hamilton defined the term workhorse this season for Durant. When the Cougars needed some hard yards or a big play, the 5-10, 235-pound bruiser was likely to get the ball.

“He’s the guy we called on when we needed to put a drive together,” Gottman said.

Hamilton had more than 100 yards rushing in eight of the 11 games he played in this season, including 112 yards in an impressive 34-7 win against Tampa Bay Tech

13

allowed under 10 points per contest.

“He’s just a hard-nosed football player,” Gottman said of Baker earlier this season. “He has the ability to fly to the ball and make plays.”

Baker was one of those players that moved positions this season, switching from cornerback to strong safety.

After only 34 tackles last year, the senior nearly tripled that in his final run with the Cougars.

“He did a great job for us,” Gottman said.

Honorable mentions: Andrew Zuluaga, Strawberry Crest; Micheal Mitchell, Strawberry Crest; Dylan Johnson, Plant City; Matt Chaney, Plant City; Devyn Salmon, Plant City; Tyler Moody, Durant; Zach Hoffman, Durant; Dontriel Perry, Durant

in the region quarterfinals. His most impressive game came in the season opener, when he carried the ball 14 times for 187 yards and five touchdowns in a 57-7 win against Freedom.

Just ask anyone involved with the Durant program, and they will tell you what sets him apart.

“He’s just a great kid,” running backs coach Matt Stwan said. “He’s one of those guys that you would want your daughter to date.”

Hamilton was a leader for Durant both on and off the football field. He was just as much the team’s biggest fan and mascot as he was its best player.

Like Strawberry Crest’s Hamilton, Jamarlon also is revered as one of the most under-recruited players in the region. In three seasons at the position, Hamilton rushed for 2,963 yards and 38 touchdowns.

According to Gottman, Hamilton has no offers as of Dec. 17, but Southern University in Louisiana is interested in the fullback.

Honorable mention: Karel Hamilton, Strawberry Crest

Honorable mention: Jamarlon Hamilton, Durant High

CHASE/PAGE 11 Chase’s biggest game came in a 34-14 win against Riverview where he had three catches for 105 yards, including a 73-yard reception that went for a touchdown.

The Raiders went 4-6 this season after a 7-3 campaign a year earlier. After losing 22 seniors to graduation, including key skill position players, head coach Wayne Ward was looking for answers.

“For a first-year player, he had a tremendous year,” Ward said of Chase. “He’s the type of athlete who wants the ball in his hands.”

Ward said he has seen Chase’s growth as a player.

“As the year went on, he began to ask questions about how to improve, and that’s something you want to see in a young player,” he said. “He’s in position to be a big-time guy to come out of Plant City in a few years.”

Honorable mentions: Tristan Hyde, Strawberry Crest Editor’s note: Durant sophomore Crispian Atkins was not eligible, because it was his second year playing on varsity.

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Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012

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PlantCityObserver.com

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