Plant City Times &
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HAVING A BALL
FAMILY RECORD
TRACKED
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Little League opening day a home run.
RailFest to chug into downtown next weekend.
Miltners knock coaching out of the park.
AGRICULTURE
OUR TOWN
by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
+ Daylight Saving
Amber Jurgensen
Don’t forget to “spring forward” Sunday, March 8, for Daylight Savings Time.
+ YMCA hosts swim lessons Just in time for spring break, the Plant City YMCA will be holding swim lessons for SPLASH! Week March 9 to 12. Lessons are open to swimmers and non-swimmers, ages 3 to 12 years. The free classes include a 40-minute water safety lesson taught by certified swim instructors. Classes will focus on water familiarization, pool rules, water safety rules, safe water entry and exit, front and back floating, basic front and back paddling, treading water and personal safety/rescue skills. Participants are grouped by ages. YMCA membership is not required, however, pre-registration is required due to limited space. Participants must bring their own swimsuit and towel. Times vary based on each YMCA branch. Contact the Plant City branch at (813) 757-6677.
Adam Putnam spoke about the upcoming legislative session.
A Time to
Celebrate
Moooo! Livestock shows are part of Plant City’s heritage. Left: Mr. Berry attended the parade again this year.
The commissioner of agriculture has attend the Strawberry Salute breakfast for 19 years in a row. Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam joined Farm Credit of Central Florida directors, Florida Strawberry Festival directors and the Strawberry Queen at the annual Strawberry Salute Breakfast Monday, March 2. This is the 19th year in a row the Bartow native has attended. This year, he spoke of his goals for the upcoming legislative session. “As we step into that vortex there are a couple of things I
+ Chapter celebrates 30th On Feb. 21, the Benjamin DeVane Chapter of the National Society United States Daughters of 1812 celebrated its 30th anniversary. The Chapter was founded Jan. 13, 1985. The Charter members were:
SEE BREAKFAST / PAGE 4
safe and sound
by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
BEHIND THE SCENES:
The midways are a big draw for festival guests.
I
t’s been quite a birthday celebration for the Florida Strawberry Festival. After 80 years of fun, the festival has declared the 2015 “Come Join the Party!” And the thousands of guests who attended, both natives and out-of-towners, certainly did party. From the Grand Parade to livestock shows, the Florida Strawberry Festival never disappoints. For more pictures, open up this week’s edition or visit PlantCityObserver.com.
Nancy Johanna Aul Mrs. Howard Beynon Mrs. Thomas Billips Mrs. Thomas Burnett Mrs. James Cast Mrs. Ralph Durrance Catherine Lewis Mrs. Fuller Simmons Mrs. Harry Lee Smith
FESTIVAL SECURITY Safety is a joint effort among the Plant City and Temple Terrace police departments, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
+ Chili cook-off rescheduled The Arts Council of Plant City has rescheduled its Chili Cook-off, “Promoting the Culinary Arts through
The Florida Strawberry Festival is known as one of the safest, most family-friendly events in the state. But making sure that it stays this way takes an intensive, collaborative effort among the Plant City and Temple Terrace police departments, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and much of their work is behind the scenes. As festival-goers drive up to the grounds, they are directed by PCPD officers. “The responsibility of traffic flow outside of the gates falls
OUR TOWN / PAGE 4
, 3&
The Strawberry Queen and Court danced with guests on opening day.
IN THIS ISSUE GRAND PARADE ............................... PAGE 5 BABY CONTEST .................................PAGE 8
This week’s winner is
Tori Lumley
See his photo on PAGE 15.
Putnam speaks at annual fruit salute
MOONLIGHT MAGIC .........................PAGE 10 YOUTH STEMMING ............................PAGE 8
SEE SAFETY / PAGE 4
INDEX Calendar.......................2
Vol. 2, No. 32 | One section Crossword...................15
Obituaries...................11
Sports.........................12
Weather ......................15
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COMMUNITYCALENDAR FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Circus Mutt Live! — takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 6, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 752-9100. Boyz II Men — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Friday, March 6, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Wish Farms Soundstage. Acoustic Happy Hour — music takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, March 6, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Corner Store Happy Hour — takes place from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 6, at The Corner Store, 121 E. Reynolds St. Enjoy craft beer and sangria in a relaxed environment. Kitchen stays open late for dinner. (813) 754-0900. Christian Contemporary Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Friday, March 6, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220. Live Music — takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, March 6, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Loretta Lynn — takes place beginning at 3:30 p.m.
Friday, March 6, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Wish Farms Soundstage. Moonlight Magic — takes place from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday, March 6, at the Florida Strawberry Festival. The midway stays open for this special event.
SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Dan + Shay — takes place beginning at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Wish Farms Soundstage. John Legend — takes place beginning at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Wish Farms Soundstage. Skip Frye Blues Live! — takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 752-9100. Young Adult Nite — takes place from 7:33 to 10:33 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Enjoy live music from local artists. (813) 7521220.
SUNDAY, MARCH 8 Coca-Cola Family Day — takes place beginning at 10 a.m. Sunday, March 1, at the
Florida Strawberry Festival. Present any Coca-Cola brand can product at the entry gate to receive a voucher for $5 off the $25 ride wristband. Daylight Savings Time — takes place at 2 a.m. Don’t forget to “spring forward” and set your clocks. Divorce Care: The Road to Healing/Finding Help — takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at Plant City Church of God, 2103 Mud Lake Road. Parmalee — takes place beginning at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Wish Farms Soundstage. REBA — takes place beginning at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Wish Farms Soundstage. Second Time Around Marching Band — takes place beginning at noon Sunday, March 8, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Morrow Steel Free Grandstand. Stingray Chevrolet Corvette Drawing — takes place beginning at 5 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at the Florida Strawberry Festival.
MONDAY, MARCH 9 Weight Loss Surgery Information Session — takes place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 9, at Ed and Myrtle Lou Swindle Medical Arts Center Conference Room, 1601 W. Timberlane Dr. Registration is required. The event is free. (813) 6446720.
TUESDAY, MARCH 10 Got You Covered: The Fine Art of Bookfacing — takes place from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Bookfacing is a trick of photography where people blend themselves posing into a cover. Gather
To publicize your event in our Community Calendar, please send by mail: 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A, Plant City, FL 33563; or by email: ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday. For more information call Ken Miller at (863) 409-7714.
SATURDAY, MARCH 14
BEST BET Baby Parade — takes place beginning at 10:15 a.m. Saturday March 7, at the Morrow Steel Free Grandstands at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds. some library books and see if you can master the art of Bookfacing. For grades 6 to 12. (813) 757-9215. GriefShare — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, at Hope Lutheran Baptist Church, 2001 N. Park Road. Each GriefShare session includes a video seminar and group discussion to help cope with the death of a loved one. (813) 752-4622. Heart Health Screenings — takes place from 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, at the Community Resource Center of South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St. High blood pressure increases the heart’s workload, causing the heart to enlarge and weaken over time, and the risk of coronary heart disease rises as blood cholesterol levels increase. Get both your blood pressure and cholesterol checked on a regular basis. No appointment necessary. Free. (813) 644-6720. The Recovery for Life — takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, at the Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House, 504 N. Palm Drive. It is a 12-step Bible-based program
to help free individuals from all forms of addiction. Debbie Ray, (813) 763-1562.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 Open Mic Night — takes place beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 11, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 7648818. Plant City Local Harvest Farmers Market — takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 11, at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. PCLocalHarvestFarmer sMarket.com. Read with Bonnie the Therapy Dog — takes place from 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 11, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St. Reading with Bonnie can help children improve reading, communication skills and build confidence. For children of all ages. (813) 757-9215.
FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Plant City Social Dance Club — dance takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 13, at the Florida National Guard Armory, 4004 Airport Road.
Friends of the Library Book Sale — takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Hardbacks will be $1 and paperbacks with be 50 cents. From 2 to 4 p.m. there will be a bag of books for $1 sale. Bags will be provided. There will be numerous categories of books for sale, as well as membership forms to join the Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library. The Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library helps to support the library’s children and adult programming throughout the year. RailFest — takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, 102 N. Palmer St. Enjoy music and games, take a tour of a vintage caboose, train platform and the train museum, and get a special edition coloring book or puzzle. The event is free. For more information call (813) 719-6989 or go to WillafordRailroadMuseum. com. Second Chance Boxer Rescue Carnival — takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 14, and Sunday, March 15, at 6106 Knights Griffin Road. The parking and admission is free. Lure course is $5 for one run or $10 for three runs. Food, games, entertainment and vendors. facebook.com/ events/698388510281662. Wish Farms Annual Charity Strawberry U-Pick — takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at Wish Farms, 37381 State Road 62, Duette. Proceeds will go to the Redlands Christian Migrant Association. The cost is $5 per flat. WishFarms. com/upick.
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choo-choo by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
CANTATE CANTICUM NOVUM
RailFest on track for second year Community The family event is hosted by the Robert W. Willaford Museum. by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
RailFest is chugging its way into Plant City for its second year, and there will be activities and learning opportunities for railroad enthusiasts of all ages. Last year, the City of Plant City hosted RailFest. But now that the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum has been established as an independent, nonprofit organization, the museum society will be organizing the event. New this year, the museum directors will be hosting the Golden Spike Awards, which they hope will become an annual tradition. The awards are for people who have gone above and beyond to demonstrate their commitment to the museum. The honorees will be revealed at RailFest. RailFest will be collaborating with the Central Florida Bluegrass Association, which has planned a bluegrass jam for the same day and time, in McCall Park. “We’re real big about supporting local stuff anyway, so that’s one of the things we decided to do together,” mu-
NEWS BRIEFS
File photo
IF YOU GO RAILFEST When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 14 (Most activities will occur before 2 p.m.) Where: Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, 102 N. Palmer St., Plant City Cost: Free More Information: (813) 719-6989, Willaford RailroadMuseum.com seum board president Eric Barber said.
Since the Christmas season, directors of the museum have been working on plans for a museum-themed puzzle and an original coloring book to teach children about railroad safety. These items will be available for the first time at RailFest. The puzzle, on sale for $16, features a photograph of the museum’s red caboose, donated by Robert Willaford. Only 105 puzzles have been created, making them an exclusive collector’s item. The museum directors hope to release a puzzle with a new
photo annually. The coloring books, intended for elementary-age children, were designed by a local high school student and artist Mina Geist. “She’s an amazing artist,” Barber said. Geist’s drawings will be in the style of Japanese manga, which Barber thought would make a unique coloring book, because it’s not a style that is used often. RailFest will also have a trackless train and other activities that children will love. “We’re going to have a lot of giveaways for kids. It’s definitely going to be kid-oriented,” Barber said. Visitors to RailFest will be able to take one last look at the museum tower before it is renovated and its termite damage is repaired. If so desired, they can make donations to put toward its upkeep. For more information about RailFest, visit the museum’s newly unveiled website at WillafordRailroadMuseum.com. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
man’s best friend by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
+ Marathon gas station catches fire An electrical issue sparked a fire at the Marathon gas station at McIntosh Road and Highway 92 in Seffner, Thursday, Feb. 26. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue responded to a report of a commercial structure fire at 5:30 a.m. Upon arrival, HCFR found smoke and flames coming from the exterior of the gas station. The fire was contained to the exterior and extinguished. All employees and patrons were evacuated prior to HCFR’s arrival. There were no injuries to civilians or personnel. The cause of the fire was electrical.
+ Motorcyclist dies in head-on collision A motorcyclist died after a head-on collision on U.S. 92 east of Turkey Creek Road early Feb. 25. At 4:50 a.m., a 2010 Dodge Avenger driven by Cristal Elisa Higareda, 21, of Plant City, was traveling east on U.S. 92 when it crossed the center line into the westbound lane for an unknown reason. The front of the vehicle collided with a 2003 Suzuki G7250 driven by Marcelo Cruzes-Tovar, 30, of Plant City. Cruzes-Tovar died at the crash site. Higareda and the two-year-old child in her car suffered minor injuries.
+ Detectives find moonshine still Donnie Jones, 26, of Plant City, was arrested Feb. 19, after detectives found a moonshine still and drug paraphernalia on his property. Detectives responded to 3501 Edwards Road to locate a possible meth lab. The moonshine still was discovered under an overhang that was part of a shed. Detectives found a red plastic, 50-gallon barrel, which contained fermenting corn mash and strawberries. They also found a white plastic barrel that contained a copper (worm) tubing. In addition, they found some meth lab-making items, but did not find an operational lab on the property. Jones was arrested on charges of resisting law enforcement officer without violence, possession of a controlled substance, possesion of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Additional charges for the still are pending.
Courtesy photo
In addition to the dogs, volunteers are the heart and soul of Second Chance Boxer Rescue.
NEW LEASH ON LIFE Second Chance Boxer Rescue and Second Chance Friends rescue pets throughout Tampa Bay and are hosting a fundraising event in Plant City. When a dog named Circles was rescued in Polk County, he had a fractured spine and an even more badly broken spirit. His owner had swung him around by his tail, thrown him into a wall and then left him alone in the backyard for six months. But because of Second Chance Boxer Rescue and its sister organization, Second Chance Friends, Circles was given all of the care he needed to recover. Months later, he was adopted by a loving family. “We’re a last-resort rescue. ... We take dogs off the euthanasia list. They’re normally just medical trainwrecks,” said Bill Gray, director of SCBR, who personally took Circles to New Orleans for rehab and supervised his year-and-a-half-long recovery. SCBR will be hosting a carnival March 14 and 15 as a fundraiser, to ensure that more dogs like Circles can be rescued, rehabbed and ultimately embraced by new families who will care for them properly. Circles will even be at the carnival to meet all who attend. This will be the carnival’s second year. It was so successful last year that it has now been expanded to an entire weekend. “I really was shocked at the turnout. It was amazing,” Gray said. “The cars just kept coming.”
IF YOU GO CARNIVAL When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 14, and Sunday, March 15 Where: 6106 Knights Griffin Road, Plant City Cost: Free admission and parking. Lure course is $5 for one run of $10 for three runs. Food prices vary. More information: facebook.com/events/ 698388510281662 The carnival will have all of the usual attractions, such as food, music, children’s activities and games. There will also be a number of rescued basset hounds dressed as clowns and vendors selling pet-related items. But the big draw is the lure course. In a lure course, dogs run at top speeds to chase a bright, motorized object. There are competitions for lure coursing, but at the SCBR carnival, any dog can run the course for fun. No experience is necessary. “Almost any dog can do it,” Gray said. “It’s like they can’t wait to do it. And once in a while, you have one that’s so thrilled, they’re screaming while they run, and I laugh so hard, I cry.”
Anyone can bring his or her dog to the carnival. Gray asks that owners keep control of their dogs and do not use retractable leashes. Gray started SCBR after serving as president of Florida Boxer Rescue. Though Florida Boxer Rescue is a large and effective organization, Gray saw a need for a smaller, local organization to save boxers in the Tampa Bay area. “They’re little clowns — goofy, goofy dogs, very affectionate,” Gray said. “We raised our kids with boxers. They’re really family dogs.” But Gray often came across dogs of other breeds that also were desperate to be rescued. So he formed a division of SCBR, Second Chance Friends, for all dogs, cats or any other kind of pet. When Gray finds that a rescued pet is unlikely to be adopted because of old age or extreme anxiety issues, he welcomes them into his own home. “They come and live out their lives at the Boxer Ranch,” Gray said. “There’s never a minute that there’s not a human in the house.” For more information about SCBR or to apply for adoption, visit saveaboxer.org. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
Chorale chooses new director Claudia Bolaño has years of performance and teaching experience, three musical degrees and a passion for conducting.
When Claudia Bolaño conducts a choir, it is as though her baton is not just a tool, but it becomes an extension of her very being. Her movements mirror the music’s depth, as she urges the vocalists to interpret and express the emotive nature of the piece. Plant City Community Chorale has seen some ups and downs in recent years, but as its new artistic director, Bolaño has a vision to help the ensemble reach its full potential.
Prelude
Bolaño and her husband are from Bogotá, Colombia. Bolaño studied instrumental and choral conducting, as well as piano performance, at Pontific Javeriana University. But her husband, Ernesto, was looking to advance in his engineering career, and the United States seemed to offer big opportunities in his field. After he was offered a position in central Florida, the couple moved to Lakeland in 1998 with their son, then just 8 months old. The move was a big adjustment for Bolaño. It is common for families to be served by maids in Colombia, so she had to learn how to be a homemaker, while taking care of a baby and trying to learn a new language. “I come from a very close family,” Bolaño said. “It was really hard for me to detach from them.” After about a year, Ernesto worried that Bolaño was bored and lonely, and though she taught piano lessons, she was not engaged in her passion for vocal music. He did some research and found the Lakeland Choral Society, which Bolaño joined as a vocalist. The choral society practiced at Florida Southern College, which helped Bolaño connect with students and faculty at the school. She enrolled as a music education student, with the dream of becoming a music teacher. “It was hard, intimidating, taking all these classes in English with all these American people who knew the language really well,” Bolaño said. But she excelled in her program and earned not only a bachelor’s degree, but also an honorable award for Student Teacher of the Year.
First Movement
Bolaño began teaching at Lakeland High School, where she worked for five years. She was valued for her success in building a choral program from scratch. Mulberry High School soon invited Bolaño to develop a new choral program there, just as she had done at LHS. “It was harder there. It took me longer. But I left that school when my women’s ensemble got superiors at state,” Bolaño said. “That’s when I said, ‘Ok, I’ve done what I needed to do. I’m ready to go back to school.’” Bolaño again became a fulltime student, this time at University of South Florida. After completing her master’s de-
gree in conducting, she began working as a voice teacher at Harrison School for the Visual and Performing Arts, which her son and daughter both attend.
Modulation
While she was studying at USF, Bolaño met another master’s student, Joe Mendolia, who had founded Plant City Community Chorale and was its director at the time. Mendolia invited Bolaño to PCCC concerts and asked her to conduct a Christmas concert one year. “I did not know that was going to mean anything later on,” Bolaño said. “I just went one day, conducted them, had a great time, left, and I forgot about it.” In 2013, the executive board let Mendolia go from PCCC after he had been arrested on charges unrelated to the choir. PCCC’s next conductor, Ken Watts, was a mater of music with more than 40 years of experience. Watts served until January 2015, but then had to step down because of illness. Soon after that, Bolaño got an unexpected letter from PCCC. “The letter said, ‘Would you consider being our director, because we remember how you worked with us. We need a director. You are the person that we want,’” Bolaño said. “Very similarly to my schools that I had worked in, they were kind of in crisis.” At Bolaño’s first rehearsal as director of PCCC, the choir had just 14 members. Its only tenor was a woman who usually sang in the alto section. But the executive directors had an idea to bring life back to the choir, and with Bolaño’s help, the plan worked. The choir hosted an open rehearsal and invited anyone who had been involved with PCCC in the past. At the open rehearsal, the choir more than doubled. And all 16 guests returned and signed up to join long-term. “All these people gave me a chance,” Bolaño said. “I’ve been extremely lucky, and I’m very happy.”
Crescendo
Bolaño hopes that under her leadership, PCCC’s members will become more professional and skillful than ever. “I just want to raise the bar, so eventually they can sing major works. Why not?” Bolaño said. “I would love to provide them with a better level of musicianship than they have right now.” In the spring concert, PCCC will be singing a piece in Latin. And at this week’s rehearsal, for the first time ever, they began working on a piece in Spanish. “They’re not scared. And they’ve told me, ‘Push us as hard as possible, because we want to do it well,’” Bolaño said. “I’m very grateful for these people,” Bolaño said. “The fact that they have fought so much to not let their choir die, even with all the difficulties they have come through. They’re willing to do pretty much anything.”
Catherine Sinclair
Claudia Bolaño leads weekly rehearsals for Plant City Community Chorale.
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HONORS by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
Scouts, Berry honored at friends of scouting dinner Scouting organizations are a pretty big deal around the Plant City area, and on Thursday, Feb. 19, local Boy and Eagle Scouts were honored at the Friends of Scouting banquet dinner.
The event, which was held at Hillsborough Community College’s John R. Trinkle Center, included a speech from a guest speaker, Police Chief Ed Duncan, and Florida Straw-
berry Festival director emeritus Al Berry was honored with the Boy Scouts’ Dean Snyder Soaring Eagle Community Service Award for all his hard work around town.
signed for veterans who have been wounded in war. There will be a lodge and range, all handicap accessible. “It’s a small thank you — that they can do what they grew up doing, take their families, their kids,” Putnam said. But perhaps the biggest topic is to implement a proactive water policy. Because of Florida’s diversity, its regions haven’t been cohesive in the past to create a united and formalized water policy. Putnam highlighted those many regions, including the St. Johns River in Jacksonville down into central Florida, Apalachicola and its oyster harvest, and the Florida Everglades. Putnam warned against be-
coming like California in its recent droughts, which have caused industries difficulties. “We need an overreaching, statewide water policy with emphasis on springs, the Everglades … water quality and water supply,” Putnam said. “When you have a good rain year and good legislative leaders, you need to address it … We need to deal with this not in a reactionary way.” In addition to Putnam, Strawberry Festival President Jim Jeffries thanked Farm Credit for its service to the festival. He encouraged attendees to visit its farming display near the Stingray Chevrolet tent, calling it a “mini farm.” The 2015 Strawberry Queen,
Samantha Sun, thanked Farm Credit for hosting the court. “We’re so thankful to Farm Credit and the farmers … because without them, we would not be who we are — and that is the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World.” Also in attendance were Hillsborough County Sheriff David Gee, Plant City Police Department Chief Ed Duncan, Plant City Mayor Rick Lott, City Manager Mike Herr, County Commissioner Al Higginbotham, State Representative Dan Raulerson, State Attorney Mark Ober, and the Grimes Family. Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.
Al Berry poses with his Boy Scouts’ Dean Snyder Soaring Eagle Community Service Award. Right: Boy Scouts Troop 734 was on hand for the event.
BREAKFAST / PAGE 1 want to address,” Putnam said to the packed roomed at Plant City’s First Baptist Church. Putnam said he would like to integrate local produce into school nutrition to create healthier meals, stimulate the Florida economy and reduce diet-related illnesses. “How would it be if Strawberry Crest High School was eating Mexican strawberries or Orange County schools were drinking Brazilian orange juice?” he asked. He also touched on his project Operation Outdoor Freedom. This fall, he will roll out Peace River State Forest, a 5,000-acre hunting camp de-
LIGHT POLE FALLS INTO RIDE A small light pole fell into two children on a ride at the Florida Strawberry Festival Sunday, March 1. The spotlight was anchored to the perimeter rail at its top and base with clamps at the clown ride. The rides are inspected by a bureau of Florida’s Department of Agriculture at the beginning of the festival. The rides are then inspected every day by trained Belle City Amusement employees. Belle City said the brace might have come loose after someone leaning over the perimeter fencing kicked it. “We’ve had so many people leaning over the fence,” John Manno, safety manager for Belle City, said. “Any injury to a child we take very, very seriously. As careful as we are, things happen. Our main
SAFETY / PAGE 1 on the PCPD,” Police Chief Ed Duncan said. “Our guys are out there all day long. They start at 9 in the morning and they leave at 11 at night.” Or, on the nights of Moonlight Magic, PCPD stays until 2 a.m. or later. PCPD has 17 to 22 officers directing festival traffic at any given time while the festival gates are open, but these numbers alone wouldn’t be quite enough personnel. If more Plant City officers were sent to do off-duty work at the festival, there might be a deficit in staffing for general service calls around the city. So some officers from the Temple Terrace Police Depart-
concern is the safety and well being of the children.” The light is no taller than 8 feet and is about as thick as a broomstick. Its two glass bulbs did not break. EMS responded from a station on the grounds only 300 yards away, before fair officials even got to the ride. “It’s a reminder that when you have crowds of people, you have to be very vigilant of safety,” Paul Davis, festival manager said. Belle City’s insurance policy will cover the expenses of the children’s hospital visit. Manno said EMS did not transport the children to the hospital. Their mother took them herself. In the festival’s 80-year history and Belle City’s 67 years in operation, both cite bruises and bumps, but no serious injuries. ment come to Plant City help with festival traffic. There are mutual aid agreements in place so that these two municipal departments, along with the Tampa Police Department, can offer help to one another when big events are scheduled. “It’s a benefit. The guys get to be more familiar with each other, and it builds those partnerships,” Duncan said. The PCPD and TTPD personnel who help with traffic control are off-duty officers, and they are paid by the Strawberry Festival. But safety and security within the gates is up to a different office. “We could not put on the Strawberry Festival without the Sheriff’s office,” Duncan said.
The work of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office actually starts before the first festivalgoer even steps foot onto the grounds. Each year, they inspect the carnival games to make sure they are operating in accordance with Florida statutes. “There’s rules that regulate those, so they’re somewhat fair. You’re obviously not guaranteed to win, but there has to be a chance of winning,” Captain Kyle Robinson of HCSO said. For example, in Florida, a game cannot be called “basketball” unless the hoop is the size of a regulation basketball rim. The game has to go by a different name, such as “hoop shot.” In addition to wording and signage, Florida has specific rules about the dimensions and designs of certain games, to increase the likelihood of winning. “Belle City is very compliant with most of that, and just like in past years, there were no major issues in all of that,” Robinson said about this year’s games inspection. The biggest concern for HCSO during the festival is crowd management, Robinson said. Some of the deputies’ common responsibilities are reuniting families with their lost children, and helping the elderly with minor medical issues. Even with between 85 and 105 deputies on the festival grounds at any given time, they cannot be everywhere at once. They employ technology to help them identify problems as quickly as they sometimes occur. “There are visible and covert cameras on the grounds to protect the fairgoers,” Rob-
Catherine Sinclair
Chris DePolis and other deputies passed out stickers to children at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office booth at the festival.
inson said. “They’re basically designed to be in high-traffic areas ... so the deputies can react in a timely manner.” Not all of the HCSO deputies who work at the festival grounds are there to help with security. A few officers are stationed at a community outreach booth in the Parke Exhibit Hall. A lot of visitors from out of state — or even out of the country — stop by the booth to ask about Florida laws. HCSO also uses the booth to pass out sheriff badge stickers to children, recruit for open positions and promote a raffle fundraiser for Special Olympics Florida. “(The festival) is a great event that has very few problems, and the deputies enjoy working it,” Robinson said. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
OUR TOWN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Chili and Chocolate.” The new date is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 28, at the Robery W. Willaford Railroad Museum in downtown Plant City. It has been brought back after several years because of many requests. The best of the best can compete in categories mild, spicy and novelty. For $5, guests can sample various types of chili and chocolate from Neumeister’s Candy Shoppe. Entertainment will be provided by Dance Connection. To register, call Marsha Passmore at (813) 245-2244, Edith Kidde at (904) 465-1764, or Dodie White at (813) 9270595.
STATE REPRESENTATIVES MAKE DONATION State Reps. Dan Raulerson and Ross Spano donated two $500 checks to the Plant City Boys & Girls Club Feb. 24. They took a tour of the club with Program Director Mary Pearson and spoke with excited students on the playground.
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TRADITION by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
The Lions Club helped the PCHS Leo Club dress like clowns for the parade.
Bands from three area high schools performed.
Al Berry led the parade as this year’s Grand Marshal.
High school ROTCs marched in the parade.
Focus 4 Beauty repped their funny green costumes.
STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
GRAND PARADE From pageant queens to funny clowns, the Florida Strawberry Festival Grand Parade had something for everyone. The almost twohour parade trekked through downtown and ended at the festival. The freebies made many smile on the sidelines.
Families watched the parade, like Terry Strawn, Londyn Strawn and Courtney Broda.
Strawberry Festival Queen Samantha Sun adored the crowd.
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HANDS-ON LEARNING by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
Camp Invention returns to Plant City The only STEM-centered camp in Plant City is coming back, and campers can get $25 off if they register before March 20.
THIS WEEK’S CROSSWORD ANSWERS
Paul Coletti spent six years trying to make last summer’s Plant City edition of Camp Invention happen. Since it went so well, he’s brought it back for 2015 — and it sounds bigger and better than before. As the only camp of its kind in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, Camp Invention is a four-day program that teaches its campers how to use critical thinking within the four STEM fields: science,
INFORMATION
THIS WEEK’S CRYPTOQUIZ ANSWERS 1) Speed 2) Power 3) Moby Dick 4) Ludwig 5) Led Zeppelin. John Bonham
Plant City Times & Observer Locally Owned by Ed Verner, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes The Plant City Times & Observer is published by Plant City Media LLC, a joint-venture of the Tampa Bay Times and Plant City Observer LLC.
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CAMP INVENTION 2015 Where: John R. Trinkle Center, Hillsborough Community College When: June 15-19, 2015; 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Cost: $230 per camper; $25 off if registered before March 20. To register: visit CampInvention.org, or call 1-(800) 968-4332. For more information and for high schoolers interested in volunteering, contact Paul Coletti at (813) 9516266, or by email at pacman1988@hotmail.com.
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technology, engineering and math. When everything goes according to plan, the appeal of the camp is that the kids don’t even realize how much they’re learning. “You’re wearing goggles, using tools, getting your hands dirty and working collaboratively,” Coletti said. This summer’s camps will revolve around the theme, “Illuminate.” This consists of several modules that campers will work in, learning different skills as they progress. The “KartWheel” module, for example, will have campers build their own functioning racing cart from scratch. “Design Studio” will teach kids how to take a concept from blueprint paper to reality, and then market it as entrepreneurs. “I Can Invent: Next Level Gamers” will have kids taking apart recycled appliances and building physical game models. The program has been around for 25 years, but it’s only the second year Plant City will play host. The camp is partnered with the National Inventors Hall of Fame, and includes videos and exercises that tie in with the organization in the “In-
CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Fridays. It provides free home delivery to several neighborhoods in Plant City. The Plant City Times & Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.
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ducted” module. “It inspires, makes students create, innovate, push their limits and get after problem solving,” Coletti said. Last summer, First Baptist Church of Plant City hosted the 51 campers and their instructors near the end of June. Those students learned how to make everything for cars to pinball machines, and then showcased their creations for their parents on the camp’s final day. This year, Coletti was able to move to a bigger location: the John R. Trinkle Center at Hillsborough Community College. The space will allow Coletti and the staff to set up four classrooms and a large main room for the event, so they’re hoping to bump that number
of 51 students up closer to 90 in the coming months. Coletti said the move wouldn’t have been possible without help from the church. “I am so thankful that Plant City First Baptist got our feet in the door here,” he said. “I tried for six years to get one established, and now here we are, working on our second year.” The camp is open to all students, from kindergarten through sixth grade, and will take place from June 15 to 19. In addition to any high schoolers who choose to volunteer, the camp’s staff will consist of hand-picked, certified teachers — “only the best of the best,” as Coletti put it. Visit CampInvention.org for more information.
Plant City Times &
Observer
General Manager/Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com General Manager/Advertising / Stacey Hudson, shudson@tampabay.com Managing Editor / Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writers / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com; Catherine Sinclair, csinclair@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Executives / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@PlantCityObserver.com; Joanna Verga, jverga@tampabay.com Circulation/Office Manager / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com
“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” — Friedrich Hayek, “Road to Serfdom,” 1944
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DO BE A BABY by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
A LITTLE OFF THE TOP by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
YOUTH STRAWBERRY STEMMING CONTEST The Youth Strawberry Stemming Contest was held Saturday, Feb. 28, in the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent. Competitors were divided into age groups and given a pack
of berries. The first stemmer to remove all of their berries’ green tops was the winner. Kindergarteners had help from their parents, but the older stemmers competed independently.
Some father-and-son duos dressed alike.
BABY CONTEST Perhaps the most adorable event of the the Florida Strawberry Festival, the annual baby contest was Sunday, March 1. From creative diapers to prettiest girl and most handsome boy, the babies were all smiles.
Leah Burklew, of Gainesville, was the champion stemmer in the fifth and sixth grade division.
Parents had advice for their kids. Right: Katie Burklew, of Gainesville, was the champion in the kindergarten age division.
Left: She couldn’t wait to see the judges. Right: Those big blue eyes lit up the stage.
Their dresses were flouncy and sweet.
Many of the babies didn’t shed a tear.
The first competitor to finish stemming and put his or her hands up was the winner.
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‘ROUND MIDNIGHT by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
Families came out to enjoy the sights and sounds at night. Left: The ferris wheel was a popular attraction.
MOONLIGHT MAGIC
Special prizes and trinkets glowed in the dark.
From glowing games to a hauntingly neon ferris wheel, the midway at the Florida Strawberry Festival was lit up for Moonlight Magic. The midway was open until 2 a.m. for the event. It will be open again until 2 a.m. Friday, March 6.
PCHS Band sold strawberry cheesecake at their booth. Left: Even at night there were still many food options.
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OBSERVER OBITUARIES Cheree Byrd
Cheree Byrd, 58, died Feb. 28, 2015, from cancer. She was born in Kentucky and raised in Daytona Beach. She came to Plant City through her job as a manager of customer service with Graybar Electric, where she worked for 30 years. She loved to shop almost as much as she loved to spoil her children and grandchildren. She was an excellent listener, the best person in the world to get advice from, and she helped everyone in any way that she could. Her heart was bigger than Texas, and she was never afraid to tell the truth. She is survived by her husband, Randy Byrd; daughters, Renee Getchell, Kelly Collier and Krista Byrd; grandchildren, Blake Getchell, Madisyn Getchell and Gwendolyn Collier; and sister, Terrie Ledbetter. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 7, at Wells Memorial. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial. com.
Ruby M. Ham
Ruby M. Ham, 94, of Dover, and formerly Fernandina Beach, died Feb. 28, 2015. She was a caregiver to everyone touched by her life. She is survived by her grandchildren, Jennifer (Ronald) Lynn, Owen (Judy) Gordon, Karen (Tim) Ketchie and Shane Lester; 13 greatgrandchildren; and many other nieces, nephews, family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Virgil Ham; daughters, Freida Gordon and Joyce Mixon; and nine siblings. A celebration of life was held Thursday, March 5, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Dolores Philport
Dolores Philport, 87, of Plant City, died Feb. 28, 2015, at Country Manor Assisted Living. A native of Wyandotte, Michigan, she was the daughter of the late August and Katherine Birdsall Tice. She was an assistant manager of food services for Wyandotte Public Schools before retiring and a member of the Eastern Star. Survivors include sisterin-law, Paulette Philport Southwick; brother-in-law, Dale Philport; niece, Leigha Hernandez; nephew, Aaron Philport; and siblings, Buddy, Carol and Phyllis. A graveside service was held Wednesday, March 4, at East Shiloh Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
Carlos Taylor
Carlos Taylor, 87, of Plant City, died Feb. 26, 2015. He was a member of Laborers Local 1240, Orlando. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Faye Juanita Taylor; children, Harold (Debbie) Taylor, Wade (Denise) Taylor, Joanne (Eugene) Hartline and Tony (LaFay) Taylor; siblings, Dan Taylor, Willie (Lorraine) Taylor, Lucille (LG) Sanderfur and Rachel Driggers; 13 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren. A celebration of life was held Tuesday, March 3, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Maurine Juanita Tindle
Maurine Juanita Tindle, 84 of Plant City, died Feb. 24, 2015, at Sun City Center Hospice House. Born June 6, 1930, in Plant City, she was the daughter of the late William and Alma Collins Ham. Ms. Tindle was a member of Northside Baptist Church and retired from Florida Blood Services. Surviving are sons, James and Paul Tindle II; sister, Kathryn Mann; eight grandchildren; and nine greatgrandchildren. She was predeceased by daughter, Phyllis Richards. The family will be having services at a later date. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
Marcelo Tovar
Marcelo Tovar, 30, of Plant City, died Feb. 25, 2015. A native of Guanajuato, he was the son of Miguel Esquivel and Silverio Rangel. Mr. Tovar was a member of St. Clement Catholic Church. Survivors include wife, Juana Magueyal; children, Brayan, Evelin and Yoselyn Cruzes-Magueyal; brothers, Rocendo, Arturo and Juan Cruzes; and sisters, Maria and Rosa Cruzes. Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 3, at St. Clement Catholic Church. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
Bryce “Dale” Weaver
Bryce “Dale” Weaver, 69, of Dover, and born in Opp, Alabama, died of cancer Feb. 25, 2015. He was a retired salesman with Goodyear (Wingfoot) Truck Tire Center. He loved his family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Lynda West Weaver; children, Stacy (Keith) Platt and Stephen (Jenny) Weaver; grandchildren, Jeremy Platt, Caitlin Platt, Casey Platt, Darian Weaver and Cameron Weaver; siblings, Lowell
Nora Lehman Robertson Nov. 19, 1927 — March 24, 2012
It’s been three years ago this week Since Jesus called your name, And took you home to heaven Out of all your earthly pain. We so miss your precious laugh and your special unique ways To love and share and hug Each and every day. You are forever missed. There’s a hole within my heart. For we’ve missed you every day Since we’ve had to be apart. So watch the eastern sky, dear one For we’ll soon be raptured home. And what a grand reunion We’ll have around God’s throne. Til then, forever loved, forever missed. Your daughter, Nora Louise
(Cara) Weaver, Clovis “Red” (Velma) Weaver, Larry (Debbie) Weaver, Gene (Katrina) Weaver, Betty Jo Baggett and Rita (Hansel) Griffin; sister-in-law, Lillian Weaver; and many other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Collis “Carl” Weaver. A celebration of life was held Monday, March 2, at Hopewell Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to LifePath Hospice, Development Dept., 12470 Telecom Drive, Suite 300, Temple Terrace, Florida, 33637. Condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
James N. Yates Sr.
James N. Yates Sr., 90, of Balm, and formerly Ironville, Kentucky, died Feb. 23, 2015. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, and a retired electrician with Allied Chemical in Ashland, Kentucky. He is survived by his children, James N. “Jimmy” (Donna) Yates Jr., Marcia (Chuck) Forrest and Debbie (Brian) Ratliff; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Yates; and daughter-in-law, Phyllis Yates. A celebration of life was held Friday, Feb. 27, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Sports
YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Jonah Scolaro led the win against Strawberry Crest.14 SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM
PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
SIDELINES Do you have a good sports scoop for us? Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com, or Tweet us at @PCTOSports.
HIGH SCHOOLS
+ PCHS to host poker tourney In a joint effort to raise some money for Plant City High School athletics, the Raider baseball and football teams are joining forces to host a Texas Hold ‘Em poker tournament this month. On Saturday, March 28, any local poker stars will be able to play for the benefit of the teams at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. Doors will open at 6 p.m., and the tournament will start at 7 p.m. The buy-in will be $100 per seat, with re-buys available, and tables can be sponsored for $150 per table. Prizes will be awarded for the first, second and third-place finishers. There will be a limited number of seats at the event, so all who are interested are encouraged to sign up and reserve their spot as soon as possible. For more information, call Armand Cotnoir at (813) 967-7417.
FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2015
RECOGNITION by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
Plant City YMCA names Ashley Prescott its volunteer of the year For her contributions to the Plant City Family YMCA’s many fitness and social programs, the branch awarded volunteer Ashley Prescott with its 2015 Community Impact Award. Ashley Prescott isn’t in it for the glory and recognition. In fact, that’s the very last thing she wants to bring upon herself as a YMCA volunteer. So, when she won the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA Association’s 2015 Community Impact Award last month, she wasn’t too thrilled about literally being in the spotlight. The members of the Plant City Family YMCA staff decided that Prescott’s efforts could no longer go unheralded and were pleased to give her something to show for all of her hard work. “For us, this was a quick
decision,” Membership Director Reagan Thomas says. “There are a lot of people who volunteer, but I think she really stuck out over this past year. She doesn’t want the recognition, really. She tries to fly under the radar, but she doesn’t.”
FITNESS INITIATIVE
What initially drew Prescott, a Plant City native, to the YMCA was its personable, family-friendly nature. Compared with more traditional gyms, where members just go to work out and call it a day, Prescott loved the idea of a
place that put an emphasis on helping others, especially as someone with young children who are also a part of the Plant City Y’s family. “It’s like family,” Prescott says. “Everything is for a cause. It’s always benefitting someone, never just the Y. I love to give back.” As staying healthy is a priority for her family, Prescott enjoys helping with the Plant City Y’s fitness-oriented events. If there’s a 5K to be run in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, and the YMCA is involved in some way, Prescott will be there.
She especially enjoyed working the 2014 Turkey Trot. One of her favorites has been the Dean’s Ride event, in which she also participated this year. “I figured, if I can do it, anybody can do it, since I don’t ride bikes,” she says. “I did the 38-mile course, and I thought I was gonna die.” Fortunately, she survived the course and has lived long enough to tell about it. Whether she’ll ride again next year isn’t known, but she enjoyed this past experience either way. “I want to be healthy,” Prescott says. “It makes a difference, especially for my kids. I love what they teach there, and all the stuff they have to offer.”
+ Youth Fishing Derby set for March This spring’s Youth Fishing Derby has been set for Saturday, March 21, though it will be missing an important part. Longtime title sponsor T.J. Vail, who sponsored the event for 18 years, has since died, so the upcoming derby will be held in his memory. He was last able to attend the March 2014 event, before health problems prevented him from catching the fall derby. “T.J.’s passion was, ‘Keeping Kids Fishing,’” program manager Deborah Haldane says. As always, the derby is open to anyone ages 5 to 15, and participants will fish at Plant City Stadium’s back parking lot on Gordon Food Service Dr. from 8:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. For more information, contact Haldane at dhaldane@ plantcitygov.com, or visit PlantCityGov.com.
Beyond the YMCA’s sports and fitness programs, Prescott can be found everywhere else. She’s passionate about working with the senior citizens, organizing appreciation days, back-to-school supply drives and much more. Lately, she’s been busy helping with Florida Strawberry Festival park-
SEE PRESCOTT / PAGE 13
There’s no tribute like a sports tribute
+ Spring training games coming
FISHING
GIVING BACK
WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?
family business by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
COLLEGES
Who’s ready for Plant City to host 150 collegiate baseball and softball games over the course of this month? Hopefully, that applies to everyone. The NCBA and NCSA tournaments, annual Plant City staples, are about to come to the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World for the 10th consecutive year. Throughout March, these college teams will use the fields at Mike Sansone Park, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center and Plant City High School. Full schedules can be found online at ncbaspringtraining.weebly. com and ncsaspringtraining.weebly.com. For more information, contact Director of Operations Savannah Ahrens at savannah. ahrens@collclubsports. com.
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Ashley Prescott is a prolific volunteer for the Plant City Family YMCA.
STRAWBERRY CREST’S
COACHING TREE
As many local families are defined by their lines of work, the Miltner family is known for coaching young athletes. Jack, Mindy and Morgan have coached together for the last nine years. It’s fitting that, for the Miltner family’s current coaching opportunity, the family was able to go back to where it all started. Jack Miltner and his daughters, Mindy and Morgan, are currently working just a few minutes from the family home off of Gallagher Road near Strawberry Crest High School — the school the girls would have attended if it were open 15 years ago. Ask them, and they’ll say they never expected it to be like this. They’ll also say it’s been a blessing.
LAYING DOWN ROOTS
Jack is doing retirement on his own terms: taking it easier than before, but not letting his loves of softball and working with youths become things of the past. A coach in the Tampa Bay area for over 30 years, Jack may be best-known for opening up and running his own baseball school at the family home in 1990. The seven-plus acre plot
of land held just about everything a young player could ask for in a local training facility, from batting cages and wall ball areas to practice fields. The coach also fielded several travel teams, the Team Miltner Buzzards, for competition. “You could have 80 kids there, easy,” Jack says. “It was magnificent. I was working really hard, watching the young kids, and I wanted to see how I could help and motivate them. I wanted to give back to the community and do something fun.” But some of his favorite concepts to pass on to his students were the mental intangibles. “Teaching life lessons, mostly,” Jack says. “Respect for the game, and all of that.” He coached at Bloomingdale High School for a while, finishing with a 40-15 record and back-to-back district titles in two seasons as head coach (1993 and 1994), and was an assistant on the 1991 state runner-up team. After the time came for Jack to move on from his school in
2003, he eventually returned to the high school game. He helped open up Lennard High in 2006 and, to his delight, was able to do so with his daughters.
STICKING TOGETHER
Mindy and Morgan grew up playing sports and attending camps together, so it was natural that they eventually found their way into coaching together. Mindy began playing softball at about 5 years old and also played volleyball. She’s more into softball these days, with her role as the Lady Chargers’ head coach. But it was in volleyball that she won the 2000 FHSAA state championship at Durant, before continuing to play both sports at Florida Southern College. She then transferred to St. Leo to continue her softball career. “I liked playing volleyball, because it gave me something different to do, but softball was always my first love,” Mindy says.
Justin Kline
Mindy, Jack and Morgan Miltner run Strawberry Crest High’s softball and volleyball teams.
CATCH A GAME After Tuesday’s softball game against Tampa Bay Tech, the Lady Chargers officially entered their spring break period. The girls will be back in regular-season action on March 17, and will enter a fourgame home stretch. All games start at 7 p.m. 3/17: vs. Wharton 3/20: vs. Brandon 3/24: vs. East Bay 3/27: vs. Plant City Morgan, on the other hand, gave up softball in the sixth grade after a medical issue took her out of the game for a short time. When she was ready to play sports again, volleyball season came first — and she was hooked. She was also on Durant’s 2000 state championship team with Mindy and picked up another title in 2002 before going to play at the University of Tennessee. Morgan says that, after college, neither sibling expected to be coaching for a living
SEE MILTNERS / PAGE 14
I’ve been thinking a lot about losses lately. No, I’m not talking about my beloved Buffalo Sabres’ attempt to tank and draft rising star Connor McDavid. I’m talking about personal losses because, for me, several things came up last month. The first was Buddy Bennett, who became the first person I’d ever met through work that I had to write a tribute for. I wrote plenty about Bennett and the great things he did for Plant City and, if you missed it, you can find the full JUSTIN article on KLINE PlantCityObserver. com. The Dolphins are currently working on a way to pay tribute to the man next season, which will probably come in the form of a uniform accessory. Shortly afterward, I celebrated the birthday of a close friend and college roommate who, one year ago, didn’t survive being struck by two cars. We celebrated Jesse’s life around this time last year and, because he was such a hardcore Pittsburgh Steelers fan, everyone who attended wore the team’s gear as we shared our best stories about our time with him. (If you see me wearing a Steelers t-shirt around town in a few days, that’s why.) And, the morning of this past Valentine’s Day, I learned that a fraternity brother of mine died in an accident. Although I wasn’t able to attend the service, which was held in South Carolina, I’m helping family and friends work on several tributes to Will. I’ve noticed that many of the ways society pays tribute to the deceased is done through, or at least inspired by, sports. Maybe it’s because that person was such a huge fan that any other way to do it just wouldn’t work as well, or perhaps it’s because sports and strong visuals work so
SEE KLINE / PAGE 13
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PRESCOTT / PAGE 12
PLAY BALL! by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
ing, a way that the Plant City Y raises scholarship money for local students. “Whatever you need, she’s there to help with,” Thomas says. “We have our hands full with day-to-day operations, so it’s helpful to have someone who can take charge of these things.” Every year, the entire staff chooses the Community Impact Award recipient by consensus, basing the choices on the YMCA’s core values. “Somebody who gets the Y, gets the Y values and sees the good that the Y does personally, for people and the community,” Thomas says. “It’s a way for us to say, ‘Thank you.’” As shy from the spotlight as she may be, Prescott was glad to know that her co-workers appreciate what she’s done for the Plant City Y, even though she believes she’s just one cog in the machine. “There are a lot of volunteers, and I don’t think I did anything different,” she says. “It takes a lot of people to help.” Prescott is excited for what the YMCA will do in 2015. “They have this huge poster of me in the middle of the Y,” she says. “I guess it’ll be there all year. I’m pointing at numbers, like we’re trying to reach a goal. I try not to look at me.”
Plant City Little League celebrates opening day
KLINE / PAGE 12 well together that things just seem to click that way. For Jesse, it was the former. There was even a subtle nod to the Steelers in the first shirts that were made for the annual sport fishing tournament held in his honor. (Which, I’m pleased to say, raised $14,000 this year for an FGCU scholarship in his name.) With Will, who was a huge Gamecocks fan, it will be the latter. There won’t be any explicit USC visuals in his case but, as his family has said, everything has to be done in garnet, white and black to make it feel like Will. I would imagine that many of you would request similar things, especially because two out of every three Plant City residents I encounter seem to be huge Florida Gator fans. And I would hope that anything done for me involves my Bills in some way. On TV, or in person, it’s always moving to see what teams and players do when they’re mourning a loss. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a uniform patch or something written on footwear. But other times, we’ll see a fullon gesture that goes beyond that — something that sticks with us for a while. For example, I loved the North Carolina basketball team’s tributes to legendary coach Dean Smith, who also died last month. The Duke and UNC players kneeling together at center court in Cameron Indoor Stadium spoke volumes of Smith’s reputation, but I especially loved the Four Corners play the Tar Heels ran at the start of their Feb. 21 home game against Georgia Tech. Smith was famous for running that offense and, fittingly, the play worked. But, my all-time favorite happened in a high school game in 2002. Just one day after future NBA superstar Chris Paul accepted a scholarship to Wake Forest, his grandfather was brutally murdered. In the very next game he played, he planned to try and score 61 points — one for each year of his grandfather’s life — without telling anyone of his idea. Paul hit his mark in the fourth quarter when he drew and and-one with two minutes to go. Realizing that he had reached 61, he threw up an airball and left the game. As he collapsed into his father’s arms, his team won the game soundly and everyone in the gym realized what Paul had just done. This is part of the reason why I love sports as much as I do. They give us imagery that sticks with us for the long run and stories that can bring out our emotions like nothing else out there, even if it seems trivial that something like basketball or football can have such a strong effect on a person.
On Saturday, Feb. 21, Plant City Little League celebrated its Opening Day at Mike Sansone Park. After a series of speeches, a plaque presen-
tation and the Strawberry Queen’s traditional first pitch ceremony, local youngsters couldn’t get back on the fields they love fast enough.
Mayor Rick Lott. Right: Rhett Rollyson, as usual, was the emcee for the event.
Kids and coaches took part in the March of Players during the ceremony.
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MILTNERS / PAGE 12 — let alone coaching with their father. “I don’t think either one of us ever really said we wanted to be a coach,” Morgan says. “Coaching chose us. It’s in our blood. It’s in our family. It’s our life. We’ve always been around educators and coaches and, next thing we knew, we’re nine years in.” Both Miltner girls got their coaching start at Lennard, starting the softball and volleyball programs. When Crest was built, and looking for coaches, the family just couldn’t pass up on the chance to start another new project.
“We wanted to come back home,” Mindy says. “This is where we were used to. These were the kids we were used to. This felt comfortable.” Although Jack is a veteran of the boys game, he’s been having a blast since moving to the softball diamond to work with his daughter. “It’s mainly because of Mindy,” Jack says. “I started coaching her when she was 6 years old, and through her career. The game is faster. It’s funner.” He doesn’t get involved with the volleyball team, but Mindy does serve as Morgan’s assistant coach. The softball team may have
gotten off to an uncharacteristically slow start, but Crest fans won’t see Jack and Mindy as anything but upbeat. After all, this family has had an opportunity that many don’t get: to be able to pursue a shared passion together and create something with staying power from scratch. “To go and work with their two daughters that know as much as you do, and working with all of the kids — changing lives here — that’s just remarkable,” Jack says. “To be able to do what we do with kids that you love so much, it doesn’t get any better.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM
JONAH SCOLARO Durant High’s baseball team has been on a tear lately, winning six of its last seven games (as of press time). Among those wins was a big 13-2 statement win at Strawberry Crest Friday, Feb. 27, and sophomore Jonah Scolaro led the way by going 3-for-4 with three runs scored, two RBI and two stolen bases. You all got a big win over Crest on Friday night, and you played well in that one. How are things going for you out there? Good, we’re on a roll right now. It’s all about the team — I can’t just talk about me that much. You’re stepping into a pretty big role on this team as a sophomore. What’s that like for you? It’s good. I’ve been playing my whole life, and it’s just a game. You can’t really think about that stuff too much. Can’t let it get to your head. Do you have any personal goals for this season? I’ve got to lower my ERA. That’s what I’m working on right now. What was the first position you ever played in baseball that you really liked? First base, but I don’t play that anymore. I got bad at it. How did you do that? I don’t know. I couldn’t really catch the ball at first base, so I moved to the outfield. Which, that doesn’t really make sense, but, yeah. You’re also a pitcher. What made you try that out? I always pitched a little bit, but I was never that good at it. Then, when I was 13, that’s when I really started to develop. I got better. I like pitching best now. What’s your best pitch? My two-seam fastball. If you could play another sport you’ve never tried before, what would it be? I wouldn’t play any other sport — I’d just stick with baseball. It’s just, no other sports really interests me. This is the best sport.
Who’s your MLB team? I don’t have a favorite team. I just follow the sport more, stay up with who’s doing good and stuff. Favorite player? Dustin Pedroia. Just the way he plays — he’s a beast. I know you don’t have a favorite pro team but, if you could get called up to any team in the bigs right now, where would you go? Oh, the Yankees. They’ve got a lot of money, and everything else. The legacy — it’s the Yankees. Everyone knows the Yankees. What’s the best baseball movie of all time? “The Sandlot.” I see you guys have Mario Baseball here in the clubhouse. What other video games are you big on? “Super Smash Bros. Brawl.” Who’s always getting whooped at Mario Baseball in here? Sully. Definitely Jake Sullivan, he’s awful. (Ed. note: a nearly-full clubhouse immediately backed-up this claim.) If you could be either rich or famous, what would it be? Rich, because I could get whatever I want. And, you can get famous for being rich. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? To be able to fly, because that would be awesome. What’s the most-played song in your iPod right now? “Thinking Out Loud,” by Ed Sheeran. Do you have a message for all the Cougar fans who are going to read this?
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PLANT CITY
RAIN
(INCHES)
WEATHER
THURS. Feb. 26
0.56
FRI.
TEMPERATURES
Feb. 27
0.01
HIGH Friday, March 6 77 Saturday, March 7 80 Sunday, March 8 76 Monday, March 9 80 Tuesday, March 10 82 Wednesday, March 11 85 Thursday, March 12 81
SAT.
Feb. 28
1.37
SUN.
March 1
0.00
MON.
March 2
0.00
TUES.
March 3
0.00
WED.
March 4
0.00
MARCH
TO DATE
0.00 (2014: 0.00)
YEAR
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SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES SUNRISE Friday, March 6 6:49 Saturday, March 7 6:48 Sunday, March 8 7:47 Monday, March 9 7:45 Tuesday, March 10 7:44 Wednesday, March11 7:43 Thursday, March 12 7:42
SUNSET 6:31 6:32 7:32 7:44 7:34 7:34 7:35
STRAWBERRIES
LOW 58 59 60 61 63 65 64
MOON PHASES
March 13
March 20
SHIPPING POINT: Orlando
$6.90-8.90
TO DATE 7.86 (2014: 1.34)
March 27
Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture
, 3&
Tori Lumley snapped this shot of Coach Gottman, Mavrick Carter and her son, son Austin Lumley, captains for the jv game against Bloomingdale. She calls it “Boys of Fall.” The Plant City Times & Observer and Grimes Hardware have partnered to host the I Love Plant City Photo Contest. Winners will have their photo featured and receive a $15 gift certificate to Grimes Hardware’s Strawberry Town Cafe! To enter, email your photo, along with a caption, to Editor Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: I Love Plant City. Winners can pick up their prize at Grimes Hardware.
April 4
CRYPTOQUIZ Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of an esteemed musician. Using the hints A=E and X=D, decipher the clues to name the musician.
1. L R A A X 2. R Y K A N 3. J Y V C X W B Q 4. U E X K W T 5. U A X H A R R A U W M This musician owned many drum kits but preferred the one with green sparkle:
SUDOKU
Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 through 9 in each row, column and box.
CROSSWORD A T-OUGH PUZZLE by Richard Auer ACROSS 1 Witches’ brews 8 Hangs on a line 13 Rapscallion 18 Be a resident of 19 “The Treasure of the ___ Madre” 20 Recorded books, e.g. 22 Like the king of the jungle 23 Cargo ship 24 TV type 25 Balloon filler 26 Albatross, e.g. 28 Remove, as from office 30 Bleacher creature 31 Hoopster’s ref-baiting move 33 With cunning (var.) 34 Plane-swatting King 36 General helper 37 Chimney parts 39 Bit of body art, slangily 40 Much in demand 43 Sales meeting diagrams 45 Novels have them 46 Some strands in a cell 47 Buddy-buddy 48 End the business day 49 Less delicate 53 Deep voices 54 Throat-soothing lozenge 56 Lennon’s bride 57 Carpet layer’s calculation 58 Campus building, for short 59 “___ got it!” 60 Ballerina’s garment 61 Kind of exam or history 62 Batman alter ego Bruce 63 Old King and Nat King 65 Makes a mistake 66 They’re not good to be behind 67 Bart Simpson is one 68 “Stop!” 69 Big John’s way out 70 Circle segment 71 Stereotypical snacks for cops 75 They save the day 77 Oil-rich land80 Court hearings 81 Satellite radio giant 82 Big-eared equine 83 Barfly 84 Honoring, in a way 85 Engaged in disorderly play 89 Car-grille covering 90 Fred’s wife on “I Love Lucy” 93 Persuade 94 Combatant or contestant 95 Cat chatter 97 Slender woodwind 98 Cosmetic safety org. 99 Castle’s waterway 101 Places for taking off 103 Electronics giant, once 104 Auto assembly-line add-on 106 2002 animated movie 109 Certain Native American homes 111 Pain-loving person 112 Where to pull the plug
©2015 Universal Uclick
113 Cast a spell over 114 Tibetan monks 115 Scrawny chicken parts 116 Has a dwelling 1 Eastern dish of meat and rice (var.) 2 Playwright Eugene 3 It follows a warrant showing 4 “At Seventeen” singer Janis 5 “The Mikado” sashes 6 Dressed to the ___ 7 Cat-footed8 “Dear” book 9 Split apart 10 Aggravate 11 Before, back and forth 12 Island wear 13 Easy marks 14 Unorthodox sect 15 Org. on toothpaste tubes 16 Maladjusted person 17 Fragrant hair dressing 19 Long-legged shore bird 21 Comparatively rational 27 Partiality 29 “That’s disgusting!”
32 Careful examinations 34 ___ ball (hot toy of 1988) 35 Revealed, in slang 36 Worshipper’s distance? 38 “It’s all the ___ to me” 40 Maneuver through the mud 41 Figures of speech 42 Santa ___, Calif. 44 Prime-time hrs. 45 Bird of paradise feature 47 Italian marble 48 Succotash ingredient 49 A “shalt not” 50 It’s made by a long fermentation 51 Contest submissions 52 Awakens suddenly 53 Tropical African tree 54 Aquatic rodent 55 Brooks 58 Matt of Hollywood 60 Attack aggressively 62 Somewhat broad 63 Grasshopper’s trill 64 Feed-bag contents 72 Christmas dinner bird 73 “Active” start
74 “No ___ to apologize” 75 Single or homer, e.g. 76 Lake bordering Buffalo 78 Rush furiously, as a river 79 Campfire remnant 81 Salt source 83 The price of education 84 ___ A to Z 85 Starched and pleated collars 86 Severe experience 87 It’s south of South Sudan 88 Women’s reproductive cells 89 Special Forces headwear 91 Epoch when mammals appeared 92 Minimal amounts 95 Wizards 96 ___ of the crime 99 Clifflike, flat-topped elevation 100 Food for Fido 101 Type of daytime show 102 Min. fractions 105 Lacking brightness 107 Conductor’s signal 108 And so forth (abbr.) 110 ___ Beta Kappa
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