Plant City Times &
Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
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FREE • FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2015
FEELINGBLUE
SPRINGFEVER
FLOCKED TO
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The fields were picked out at the Blueberry Fest.
Check out our spring stories, including a list of summer camps.
Ken King is looking for the descendants of the Jacoby family after coming into possession of their family photo album from the 1800s.
+ Archives selects associate director
+ Ooh La La hosts contest for moms
Ooh La La Hair Studio is having a Mother’s Day contest, and the grand prize is a makeover. Write in about your amazing mom via Facebook on the Ooh La La Hair Studio of Plant City page or mail-in or drop-off letters to the studio at 2412 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City, Fl 33566. All entries are due at 12 p.m. May 5. The winner will receive: color service, haircut with style, make-up application, manicure and pedicure and a gift certificate to dinner for the winner and guest. The winner will be chosen by the salon. Any ques-
OUR TOWN / PAGE 4
, 3&
This week’s winner is
Jim Church
See his photo on PAGE 17.
governance by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
IDENTITY CRISIS by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
OUR TOWN The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center added an associate director to its staff. Plant City resident Barbara “Shelly” Drummond joined the staff April 13. Prior to joining the Photo Archives staff, Drummond had been serving as curator of education and programming for the Polk County History Center in Bartow. She has previously worked with the Photo Archives staff as a consultant for grant writing and as a part-time assistant to the executive director. She has written several successful grant applications for the Photo Archives. Drummond studied at Western Kentucky University and Virginia Commonwealth University and holds degrees in general studies, archaeology, folk studies, and historical and cultural preservation. She has worked as a group education instructor and trainer at Walt Disney World and as an archaeologist, GAI Consultants, regional Departments of Transportation and Army Corps of Engineers, Monroeville, Pennsylvania. A published author, Drummond has worked with Historical Literacy in Polk County, and with the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, and has served as the instructor in oral history workshops. Locally, Drummond is on the board of directors of the Arts Council of Plant City, and has worked with Plant City Entertainment, and the East Hillsborough Historical Society.
Cork students are raising money the pink way.
City plans to improve aid for homeless
The city would provide the venue, but nonprofit organizations would continue to provide the resources and volunteers. Plant City’s homeless population is likely to soon have a new place to receive meals and other services, thanks to an initiative put in place by the city manager’s office and supported by various community organizations. City Manager Mike Herr is looking at the possibility of offering the Winter Visitor Center, an indoor, multi-purpose building on the campus of the Planteen Recreation Center on Dort Street, as an alternative to Veterans’ Memorial Park, where 13 organizations and churches feed the homeless every night. The visitor center is equipped with a restroom
SEE COMMISSION / PAGE 4
IN OTHER NEWS • City staff is moving forward with the plan for an expedited permit process. The new process will allow citizens to complete the permitting process in as little as 15 days, instead of months. • The new city website is scheduled to go live around July 9. • The commissioners voted to approve a contract with Sport Surfaces LLC, for the resurfacing of the Plant City Tennis Center.
OTHER NEWS / PAGE 4
Amber Jurgensen
Ken King has been working for six years to track down the Jacoby family in the photographs that were found abandoned in an attic.
SOLVING MYSTERY THE
A customer plopped down stacks of vintage black-andwhite photographs at the front counter of a Plant City thrift store. The victorian faces lured employee Ken King to their mystery — a man with a sheriff’s star, three daughters, a black couple in fine clothes. The photographs had been found tucked away in the attic of a historic home in town. King’s natural curiosity bubbled up. Who were these people? Where did they come from? And why did they leave all
SEE PHOTOS / PAGE 4 The photographs were taken in a professional studio.
OVER MY DEAD BODY by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Plans for cadaver research center in Lithia canceled
USF anthropologists had hoped for the facility to be located at a site in Lithia, but have decided to change the location. When University of South Florida anthropologists introduced their plan at a public meeting Thursday, April 23, for a cadaver research center in Lithia, they were met with opposition from the neighboring residents — so much so that USF killed the plan the next day. The cadaver research center would give anthropologists, criminologists, forensic scientists and law enforcement officials an opportunity to study forensics and the way bodies decompose under real conditions, such as Florida’s humid weather. The
training would help these professionals improve their skills of identifying bodies of missing persons, determining how homicide victims had died and more. The Facility for Outdoor Experimental Research and Training, or FORT, was proposed to be constructed at a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office training site in Lithia. USF said it remains committed to the project and will look for an alternate site despite the suitability of the Lithia location.
SEE BODY FARM / PAGE 4
you are here by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Chamber orders new maps
The brochures will have updated information and be more user-friendly than previous designs. When visitors and tourists walk into the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, their most frequent request is for a map of Plant City. The chamber has a few maps, but the supply is dwindling. And some of the information on the maps is outdated. The current maps were printed in 2009, and the cham-
ber used to publish new maps every five years. “It’s time to do an updated map, and we’ll probably go every two years from now on,” Marion Smith, president of the chamber, said. Although the use of a GPS can help visitors find a specific location or business, the chamber’s maps are popular
for those who just want to walk around the town. There are also a number of people, usually of the older generation, who feel more comfortable using a paper map. Smith said that among the chamber office, City Hall and the tourist information center on Park Road, 48 maps are distributed each week on average. The brochures also include
SEE MAPS / PAGE 4
Catherine Sinclair
Erin Kimmerle discussed her plans for the FORT at a public meeting last week.
INDEX Calendar.....................12
Vol.2,No.31 | Twosections Crossword...................17
Obituaries...................13
Sports...........................5
Weather......................17
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GARDENING by Cammie Donaldson and Deven Higginbotham | Florida Native Plant Society
MY VIEW
Helping the Homeless Since I last wrote a column in December addressing homeless issues in Plant City, there have been many new developments.
MEETINGS
The Tampa Hillsborough Homeless Initiative, formerly known as the Homeless Coalition, recently met in Plant City with representatives from the following organizations: Plant City Police Department, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Plant City homeless advocates, Plant City Friends in the Park feeding program, as well as other community and government groups. The goal was to discuss services and tools available for documentation and helping our homeless citizens get back on their feet and into housing. Training is being scheduled for at least 10 advocates and agency partners in Plant City to properly use the UNITY government site/ forms that will enable our community to assist homeless. It will also help those at risk of becoming homeless to get permanent housing. A separate focus is dedicated to veterans who are in these situations. Many citizens in these situations are unable to work on a regular basis and are permanently disabled. Going forward, Plant City will be represented at the THHI monthly meetings in Tampa. The next scheduled meeting in Tampa is Thursday, May 7.
COMMUNITY COMPASSION The citizens of Plant City have been overwhelmingly compassionate towards the
COPS
plight of these members of our community, who are finding themselves without housing. Material donations have included boxes of food taken to campsites, clothing, blankets, first aid supplies, camping necessities, toys for the children, feminine hygiene products, basic toiletries, bicycles, etc. Many community members have tried to help by employing the homeless. Other community members have gone down to Courier Field/Veteran’s Park to assist in serving the nightly meals by Friends in the Park that are offered to the homeless and to those who are unable to provide a hot meal for their families. Often, people will randomly show up at mealtime with leftover food from a family or civic function earlier in the day and add it to the meal being served by the Friends in the Park program. Regardless of the perception most people have, many of the people taking advantage of these meals are in fact neighborhood residents that have a home but no means to feed their families. Many of the groups involved in helping our friends have also assisted in resume writing, getting their needed documents for job applications and assisting the disabled who are in housing to maintain their environment. If you are interested in making a donation of any kind, contact Shirley Chamberlain at (813) 764-4802. Food and clothing are basic human needs no one should be without.
WEST ORANGE
Street. Auto theft. Officers responded to the apartment complex in reference to a stolen vehicle.
APRIL 14
Police Place. Fraud. Officers met with the complainant in reference to mail fraud.
1800 block of North Gordon Street. Burglary to a vessel. Two black fishing poles worth $375 and a duffel bag with fishing tackle worth $300 was taken from the complainant’s boat, which was on his property.
HOW LOW CAN YOU GO?
2400 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Petit theft. Officers responded to this store in reference to a theft of a donation jar.
FAST CASH
1700 block of North Johnson Street. Vehicle burglary. Overnight, an unknown person(s) entered an unlocked 1996 Jeep and stole the victim’s wallet containing $15.
SNAIL MAIL
TAGGED
North Alexander Street/West Baker Street. Seize tag order. Officers conducted a traffic stop on a 1987 Nissan. During the traffic stop it was discovered that the tag had a seize tag order. Officer seized the tag and issued several citations.
TRAFFIC SCAM
100 block of West Strickland Street. Vehicle burglary. An officer met with the complainant in reference to a vehicle burglary.
1800 block of West House Street. Stolen license plate. Officers responded to the residence after the theft of a license plate.
HOT WIRED
1100 block of West Risk
1200 block of Spotted Lilac Lane. Vehicle burglary. An officer met with the victim in reference to a vehicle burglary.
APRIL 16
BYE-CYCLE
1200 block of West Reynolds Street. Theft. The complainant went to the department in reference to a theft of bicycles.
DIAMOND ROUGH
IN
THE
4600 block of Country Hills Court. Grand theft. The complainant said jewelry was stolen.
HANDBAG HEIST
1300 block of East Warren Street. Vehicle burglary. The complainant said her purse was taken from an unsecured vehicle.
APRIL 17
METAL-PLATED THIEF
4500 block of S.R. 574. Criminal mischief. Officers responded to a mobile home park in reference to a car being vandalized.
RED LIGHT
HARD HEADED
APRIL 15
CAR TROUBLES
The Friends in the Park program has been feeding Plant City’s homeless and needy citizens for five years at Veterans’ Memorial Monumen Park each evening at 5 p.m., and it is still going strong. This program is coordinated by Barbara Grainger and consists of about 12 different churches and individuals who supply the food and serve it each night. This nightly meal offers individuals, whom may not have other social outlets, the opportunity for fellowship and relief from the loneliness that often is the life of a homeless person or a person living alone without family or friends close by. During this nightly meal, homeless and needy individuals who have been injured (sometimes seriously, such as hospitalization from burns and traffic accidents) have had their wounds assessed and dressings changed. If you are interested in participating in this program, contact Grainger through the Friends in the Park Facebook site: Facebook.com/ParkFriendsPlantCity. If you are interested in donating food for this program, contact Grainger or any of the participating churches/individuals as listed on the Friends in the Park Facebook site. Shirley Chamberlain is an advocate for the homeless and the Food Ministry Partner for Gospel METS Ministry.
CORNER
The following information was gathered from incident and arrest reports obtained from the Plant City Police Department.
HOOK, LINE & SINKER
FRIENDS IN THE PARK
APRIL 14
YOU’VE GOT MAIL
200 block of Sugar Creek Drive. Criminal mischief. The complainant’s mailbox was knocked down by an unknown suspect(s).
900 block of South Gordon Street. Simple battery with a signed waiver of prosecution. Officers were on patrol in the area when they were flagged down. It was determined that the complainant was in the front yard of this home when an unknown hispanic male started punching him and ran off. The complainant was treated at the scene for a laceration to his head. He became uncooperative and refused to help with the investigation. He signed a waiver of prosecution.
If there are butterflies in your garden, it’s a sign of a healthy ecosystem.
Courtesy photos
Attracting Wildlife with Florida Native Plants Do you want to attract birds and butterflies to your yard? Wildlife needs food, water and cover, and can only live where these needs are met. Florida’s plants and animals, from bobcats and deer to the tiniest insects, have co-evolved over thousands of years, resulting in a complex and wondrous web of interdependence. An ideal landscape Blue birds like a house to nest in. uses native plants to cover. Dense evergreen trees provide a year-round food or shrubs, such as yaupon supply of berries, fruit, seeds holly or Simpson stoppers, or and nuts. thorny shrubs and vines, such Water is essential for wildas blackberries or Walter’s life, and your water source viburnum, are perfect cover, can be as elaborate as a pond as well as a food supply for a with a waterfall or as simple variety of wildlife. as a puddle. Dead trees and brush piles Cover needs to be provided also provide cover. Many for wildlife to breed, raise their young, hide from preda- animals, such as owls, require a cavity in a dead tree (snag) tors, sleep and feed. for nesting. If possible, leave Many native plants that a dead tree or two for the blue provide food also provide
MORE TIPS: DIVERSIFY. Plant a variety of native species. Different plants, flowers and fruit drop their leaves in different seasons. Plan on a full menu and color palette of plants for every season. Even a small landscape can include dozens of species of plants. CATER TO EVERY TASTE. Most native plants listed as “wildlife attracting” have fruits or nectar eaten by birds and butterflies. However, insect-eating birds need plants that attract insects. Tiny flowers that don’t attract us often attract insects (and the birds that eat them). FEED THE BABIES. Nesting birds must feed their young insects, and lots of them. The average hatchling requires 4,300 insects. FEED THE LARVAE. To have adult butterflies, the species-
specific larval food plants need to be available. Larval food plants can be denuded by hungry caterpillars. Relax and enjoy the fact that you’re feeding baby butterflies. Your plants will grow back. Remember, they’re naturally adapted to this abuse. GO ORGANIC. Opt for slow release, natural/organic source fertilizers, applied only when absolutely necessary. Feed your plants with leaf litter and kitchen compost, and never use pesticides that can kill the nestlings and butterfly larvae you are trying to attract. SPARE THE WEED. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “A weed is a plant whose virtues have yet to be discovered.” Leaving some native “weeds” in your garden, such as Spanish needles, helps ensure that there is always something in bloom for butterflies to nectar on. Many “weedy” plants are also but-
birds and woodpeckers, as well. Only humans make “waste.” Mother nature recycles everything. All of the yard “trash” that people throw away can be used by some animal somewhere in the food chain. Create brush piles with fallen tree limbs and use fallen leaves and grass clippings to create compost or mulch. Leave stumps and fallen logs for cover and foraging areas. Not only do they attract insects that provide food for nesting birds, but they also attract lizards and frogs that feed the hawks and owls. Do you want to attract hummingbirds? Didn’t know they existed in Florida? Plant shrubs and vines with long, tubular red flowers like the firebush, red salvia or the coral honeysuckle. You’ll attract butterflies as well.
terfly larval foods. DRESS THE YARD IN LAYERS. Include big trees, small trees, big shrubs, small shrubs, wildflowers, vines, and bunchgrasses in your landscape design. By providing vegetation at every level, you’ll support animals that forage and nest on the ground, a few feet up, or high up in the air. Reduce your turf areas which don’t provide habitat and encourage pesticide use. KEEP IT NATIVE. By planting Florida native plants you are supplying the wildlife with the food, shelter and nesting habitat they are seeking. Join the Suncoast chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society at SunCoastNPS.org. We meet every third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m., at the Seffner Extension Service office, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner. You can also find out more about Florida native plants at fnps.org.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES “Gardening for Florida’s Butterflies” by Pamela F. Traas, Great Outdoors Publishing, 1999. “Bringing Nature Home” by Douglas W. Tallamy, 2009. “Planting a Refuge for Wildlife” Wildlife Foundation of Florida and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 2013. Available free with membership from the Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society.
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play date by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
YMCA starts free program for toddlers
education by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
‘Caring and Learning With Me’ promotes sensory learning for children under age 5 and their caregivers. The Plant City YMCA is offering an opportunity for everyone in the community —whether or not they are members of the Y — to spend some time playing and learning with their toddlers. During the free program, called “Caring and Learning With Me,” children under age 5 are able to socialize, sing and use their senses, and are able to make benchmarks on age-appropriate development. “Caring and Learning With Me” used to be offered across town, at the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County’s house on U.S. 92. The program moved to the YMCA in mid-April, in hopes that more families would attend at this central location. “We moved here, and oh my goodness — a lot of people have been coming,” program leader Miranda Vasquez said. “So we’d like to make it permanent.” When children arrive, they sit in a circle, where Vasquez leads them and their caregivers in a few songs and reminds everyone of the month’s theme. April’s theme was spring, so all of the activities were spring-related. After “circle time,” the children rotate through stations that emphasize different skills and subjects. At one of last week’s stations, children learned to identify different kinds of flowers. At another, they constructed a rabbit out of paper and yarn. There was also a math-related activity.
IF YOU GO
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday (Children can be registered for either schedule of days.) WHERE: Plant City YMCA, 1507 YMCA Place TO REGISTER: Stop by the YMCA or call (813) 7576677.
Caregivers are encouraged to stay throughout the twohour program and engage in each of the activities with their children. “We’re helping the parents or caregivers learn how to work with their children ... both in the classroom setting, or in the home,” Vasquez said. Each session includes snack time, and on days with clear weather, there is usually a time of outdoor play. The stations change with each month’s theme, but children will go through the same stations for a few weeks at a time. It guarantees that they will have time to try out all of the activities and go back to their favorites, and it helps them lock in certain concepts. “Repetition is really important for children, and for caregivers as well,” Vasquez said. Children can attend “Caring and Learning With Me” twice a week, on a Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday schedule. To register, call the YMCA at (813) 757-6677. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver.com.
Catherine Sinclair
Program leader Miranda Vasquez leads the children in songs with motions.
Vanessa Cortes and Yessica Chavez Grimaldo have been close friends since elementary school.
Catherine Sinclair
Plant City High honors first hispanic val and sal Vanessa Cortes and Yessica Chavez Grimaldo overcame cultural and language barriers when they were younger to become the top two students in the Plant City High School class of 2015.
When Vanessa Cortes and Yessica Chavez Grimaldo were students at Marshall Middle School, one of their teachers had them write out their goals and bury the papers in time capsules that would be dug up right before they graduated from high school. “At the top of the list, number one was, ‘I want to be valedictorian,’” Cortes said. Cortes reached her goal as the first hispanic valedictorian at Plant City High School. As her secondary school years come to a close, Cortes is preparing the speech she will deliver at graduation and thinking about who she wants to thank for helping her reach that goal. One of those people is Chavez Grimaldo, who will stand next to Cortes at the ceremony as salutatorian. They have been best friends since they were in third grade. But Cortes and Chavez Grimaldo’s friendship is not the only thing that makes them stand out as a val-and-sal pair. Chavez Grimaldo is also the first hispanic student to be salutatorian at Plant City High School.
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Cortes and Chavez Grimaldo are both of Mexican descent, and their first language was Spanish. Cortes’ father speaks English, but her mother does not, and neither of Chavez Grimaldo’s parents speak English. Cortes’ family was migrant until she was in sixth grade. “I can’t even tell you how many different elementary schools I went to,” she said. “The stability of having a group of friends, or a friend, was something that I never had until I had (Chavez Grimaldo) in third grade.” Chavez Grimaldo had moved to the United States when she was 7. She went to a school in Wisconsin that had a first-grade Spanish immersion program, so she didn’t realize she would encounter language difficulties after moving to Plant City. “I failed second grade because I didn’t know English, and my parents couldn’t help me,” she said. “I had to learn English right away. I didn’t pass FCAT. I failed everything.” Fortunately, Chavez Grimal-
do had tutors at Bread of Life Mission who helped her catch up in school and helped guide her through life in general. They became like family to her.
LIFE AT THE TOP
Cortes and Chavez Grimaldo knew that one of them would be first and the other would be second, but it didn’t put a strain on their friendship. “It was never really like a competition,” Cortes said. “I would always tell her, ‘If you get it, it’s fine. If I get it, it’s fine.’” When Cortes showed her father that her class rank was no. 1, his response wasn’t quite what she expected. “He said, ‘That’s good. Try harder next time,’” Cortes said. Because of cultural differences, Cortes’ and Chavez Grimaldo’s parents didn’t know what it meant to be valedictorian or salutatorian. The school’s migrant specialist contacted them to explain. “She had to call and explain in their native language how prestigious this is, and how hard these girls have worked
for it,” assistant principal Peggy Obel said. Now that Cortes’ parents understand, they have been telling her younger sister that she, too, should be the top student in her graduating class someday. Cortes and Chavez Grimaldo are both bound for University of South Florida, and they are the first in their families to attend college. They will definitely be carpooling from Plant City together and might eventually become roommates on campus. “We’re trying right now to get some resources for them, so that they can actually have a housing allowance and stay in the dorms,” Obel said. Both students are interested in nursing, and Chavez Grimaldo is considering becoming pre-med. Whether they will return to Plant City after college is up in the air. “I like Plant City as being small, but at the same time, I do kind of want to live in a big city for a while, just to see what it is,” Chavez Grimaldo said. Cortes agreed. “I’d like to venture off and do something and come back then, once I have a little more experience,” she said. “It will allow me to appreciate the city a little more than I currently do.”
STEM by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Faith Christian Academy awarded technology grant
Faith Christian Academy, a small private school in downtown Plant City, will now be able to offer its students some high-tech opportunities yearround, thanks to a grant provided by Hillsborough County Economic Development. The $17,500 grant was provided through the Economic Development Innovation Initiative. It will allow FCA to purchase science equipment that will enrich its summer program, Summer Sizzle, specifically in support of the program’s addition, Science and Technology Boom. EDI2 grants are awarded a few times a year. FCA and 19 other applicants were chosen to receive grants this April. “The EDI2 Advisory Committee, which reviews all applications, found that Faith Christian Academy of Plant City’s
SUMMER SIZZLE WHEN: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
weekdays, June 8 through July 31 WHERE: Faith Christian Academy, 301 N. Palmer St., Plant City COST: $100 per student, per week GRADES ELIGIBLE:
Kindergarten through eighth grade. Students from any school may participate. REGISTRATION: $25 deposit is due May 15 CONTACT: (813) 704-2757, or info@fcapc.com. proposed Tech Boom summer camp event scope was consistent with the EDI2 program’s goals of supporting growth and education in technology
to empower the Hillsborough County community,” Crystal Pruitt, a spokeswoman for the county, said. FCA will use the grant to purchase robotics equipment, iPads and other tech tools. These items will first be used during Summer Sizzle, but also in classrooms during the 20152016 school year and beyond. Ideally, students in fifth grade and up will have a rotational schedule that will allow them to have more time in classes that interest them the most, whether that is robotics, coding or another elective. Some of the teachers on staff at FCA have degrees in IT or a strong background in science, which will allow them to teach these classes. “That’s something that the school has been wanting to do, but now we’re able to do that in
Catherine Sinclair
Students at FCA enjoyed a day of guest speakers and science-related activities last week. the summertime,” principal Nicole Williams said. Children who attend Summer Sizzle will be able to participate in fitness activities such as martial arts and Zumba, as well as a number of field trips. But now that Tech Boom can
flourish, STEM will be an emphasis, as well. “They can expect to come in and learn all about technology. We will have robotics, we will have coding, we will have basic engineering,” Williams said. “They’ll definitely be hands-on
with the coding and robotics.” FCA put the EDI2 grant to work right away and had a small-scale Tech Boom during the school day, Thursday, April 23. The students rotated through stations, learning engineering and more.
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BODY FARM / PAGE 1 HCSO currently uses the 230-acre training site for a number of operations, such as aviation and shooting. The FORT would have covered two of those acres. The nearest house was one half mile away. “In putting together this project, it seemed like a good opportunity to build on what was already there,” Erin Kimmerle, USF Forensic Anthropology Laboratory scientific director who is heading up the FORT project, said. “USF did not pick the location,” Eric Eisenberg, dean of arts and sciences, added. “It was offered to us for a number of reasons. It is secure, it has no public access, it has electricity, it has wifi and water, and it also has a 24/7 sheriff living on the property.” Some Lithia residents said they would have supported the facility. “I have faith in USF ... and I would be proud to be one of the first to donate my body,” Gretchen Elizabeth said. Kirk Smith, a nurse practitioner from Dover, has been to a similar cadaver research facility in Knoxville, Tennessee. It is located behind a hospital, in between two parking lots, and people who park in these lots have not complained about a smell “I had stood outside the fence,” Smith said. “I did not smell anything. I am in support of this. If it does not work out here, you’re welcome to come and put it on my four acres in Dover.” Others were strongly opposed to the location of the FORT and said they were worried about a potential smell or decreased property values. “I’m just concerned about what it’s going to do to my five acres of land that I spent my whole life building,” William Rayburn, whose property borders the HCSO training facility, said. “I can smell the dump several miles away if the wind blows just right.” The USF anthropologists do not expect the FORT to cause any odor-related problems.
OUR TOWN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
tions call the studio at (813) 754-4141.
+ Busciglio offering prize for moms
In honor of Mother’s Day, Busciglio Smiles want you to nominate your mom, or some-
The meeting was the first time the residents had been notified about the proposed FORT, despite plans being formulated since last year. Kimmerle has been working with the HCSO on the proposal since March 2014 and began working with county officials soon after. “We’re disappointed that USF has been working on this project for over a year and this is the first public meeting,” Scott Fitzpatrick, a Lithia resident, said. “We’re also disappointed that our sheriff would volunteer this facility without consulting the facility’s neighbors and the people of southeast Hillsborough County.” County Commissioner Stacy White, whose opposition this week became a key voice in swinging the debate, said Friday that citizens in his district “always feel like they get the things that are necessary but no one else in the county wants — the landfill, the reservoir, the women’s prison.” He was happy with USF’s decision and is “anxious” to help find a new spot. “I am completely on board with the concept of this forensic research site,” White said. “I recognize the value of it to forensic criminology. I believe in my heart of hearts that this can make sense in Hillsborough County and we can find a site that we can have the community embrace.” USF is not sure yet where the new location for the FORT could be, but it hopes to have development in progress within a year. Funding for the facility and training programs would come solely from donations and grants; there would be no taxpayer money involved. All of the cadavers would be provided through USF’s Living Donation Program. When the remains have reached the skeletal stage, they will be collected and transported to an off-site USF Donated Skeletal Collection. Times staff writer Steve Contorno contributed to this report. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver.com. one who has been a motherfigure in your life, for a chance to win a $100 gift card along with a gift basket. Visit TheOrthoDoc.com/bestmom, and tell us why you think she’s the world’s best mom. She will then be entered into a random drawing for the prize! Submissions will be accepted through May 6, and the winner will be announced May 7.
PHOTOS / PAGE 1 these photographs behind? He bought the photographs for $40. And he would devote the next six years of his life to finding out the answers to those questions.
THE MYSTERY UNRAVELS
The kitchen sink-sized, plastic bin King keeps the photographs in is stuffed to the top. Two velvet albums are falling apart, a glimmer of their former condition sparkling in the swirling metal latch. They date back to the late 1800s. King washes his hands after he handles them, unsure of if the old metal contains mercury. The photographs came with an animal skin case packed with documents — land deeds, insurance contracts, business records. And most importantly, names. “If it wasn’t for the paperwork, they’d just be pictures,” King said. Their identity: the Jacobys. He scours the internet, reconstructing the family line from bits and pieces he finds online, all in hopes of finding the living descendants of those ghostly figures in the photographs. “The descendants of this family, if they still survive, would probably like to have these photos,” King said. King has been interested in history since “his first breath.” He has spent hours upon hours searching through archives and the Internet to find shreds of information about his own family. To him, the tupperware full of the Jacoby’s memories is a treasure trove. “If there were pictures of my family, I would love to have them,” King said. “But I don’t think they’re out there. That’s a one in a billion chance.” He has come to know the faces in the photographs from night after night of studying them. He even has a favorite:
Ken King bought the photographs for $40 at the thrift store where he worked. a nameless man in a fedora. Many of the pictures are of him throughout his life, from when he was a child to his mid 20s. He never outgrew his chubby cheeks. “I need his name to tie everyone together,” King said. Another man who catches his eye wears a sheriff star. King said he looks like Leslie Nielsen with an Irish beard. “I’d love to talk to their ancestors like I knew them,” King said. And King does know them.
THE MYSTERY CONTINUES
There’s a lot of information King has gathered on the family, and as a student of history he has been able to make some assumptions about the family’s station in life. Through the documents that accompanied the photographs, he learned that the family was made up of hardworking, career-minded individuals. They held a variety of job — farmers, shoe shop owners, sheriff. The photographs were taken at a professional studio with a designed backdrop and impeccable lighting. The family members wear expensive wool clothing, pocket watches and silk bows.
Have a lead?
Ken King hopes to find the descendants of the Jacoby family to give them back their family photographs and other documents. The pictures were found in an attic of a home in Plant City before the home was demolished. The family is from out of state. If you have any leads or think you might have a relation to the family email Ken at jkbyphoto@tampabay.rr.com.
“Back then, photographs were expensive,” King said. “And these are professional photography studios. To have that many they had to have some money or influence.” Along with the family photographs is a portrait of a black
Amber Jurgensen
couple dressed in equally sharp attire. This is a telling hint. “What distinguishes these is the black couple,” King said. “What relationship did they have with them?” King has a couple of hypotheses as to who the couple is. It is likely they were longstanding servants the Jacobys saw as part of the family, a nanny or caretaker. The couple just adds to the mystery surrounding the family. Are they alive? How did the pictures get to Plant City from out of state? Will he ever find the family? “It’s just a curiosity how they ended up in the attic,” King said. “Someone moved here and had to store them in that attic. So I wonder where they’ve gone.” Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com
The next case
Along with the Jacoby family, Ken King bought another album found in the same attic belonging to the Cadiz family. King thinks the family is from the Tampa Bay area. The photographs date back from before World War II. There was also a 1980s-era program from a Tampa/Lutz funeral home. He hopes to find the family after he closes the Jacoby case. “That’s a different story,” he said.
OTHER NEWS / PAGE 1 Mayor Rick Lott and commissioners honored and thanked Kerri Miller and Charlene Broome for their work in the city clerk’s office, in advance of Municipal Clerk’s Week, which will be May 2 through May 9.
COMMISSION / PAGE 1 and kitchen. It is about one mile west of Veterans’ Memorial Park, but sidewalks along the way make it easy for pedestrians to access. Herr hopes the organizations and churches that currently serve the homeless at the park will be able to team up to offer even better aid, such as financial skills training or help searching for employment. “We’ll provide a better location, and hopefully over a period of time we can transition into some programming that would probably help people be more self-sustainable,” he said. A few months ago, Herr received a petition with 16 signatures of citizens who were concerned about the homeless population of Plant City. That same week, he continued to get emails from additional citizens expressing similar thoughts. Herr began to research
“
the nonprofits in Plant City to find out what they do on a regular basis to help the homeless residents. That’s when he learned about the feedings at the park. “It’s given me an opportunity to learn, really, about the compassion, the expression of kindness and compassion by many individuals and nonprofits in our city,” he said. “One evening, I went down and participated, serving. And I had the opportunity to really witness firsthand, the people that are receiving the meals were extremely thankful. They were very polite.” Though the park is central and accessible, being outdoors is sometimes challenging for volunteers and the people they are serving. Extreme heat, cold or rain can all be problematic. Herr has continued to meet with staff and volunteers from City Hall, the United Food Bank of Plant City, Unity in the Community, Lighthouse Ministries and various churches
that prepare and distribute the meals at the park. “The overall discussion has led us to looking at some alternatives, to see if the city has some facilities available that we might be able to make available to the various ministries,” he said. Funding for continued or improved service would come from the organizations and volunteers. The city would merely provide the space. The visitor center is occasionally used for recreational programs, but they would not conflict with the 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. time frame when meals would be served to the homeless. At the city commission meeting Monday, April 27, six Plant City citizens gave public comment about the need for supporting the homeless, including Shirley Chamberlain, who declares herself an advocate. Chamberlain was in support of Herr’s plan, but said advance communication
among all of the organizations and volunteers who serve at the park would be key to its success. “The location of the park is important right this minute, and I understand there’s an option available which sounds really great, but ... the fact that the citizens of Plant City are well aware of what’s going on at the park right now, that needs to be considered when everybody’s thinking about this,” she said. Herr has asked leaders of Unity in the Community whether the organization would be able to offset some of operating costs. “We have to get our board’s approval. We’ve been talking to them about it, and we’ve had some replies back from some of them that are very positive, but ... at this point, it’s just in the works,” Unity chairwoman Linda Lawson said. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
“
One evening, I went down and participated, serving. And I had the opportunity to really witness firsthand, the people that are receiving the meals were extremely thankful. They were very polite.
MAPS / PAGE 1 phone numbers for a number of helpful organizations and city departments, and a general calendar of annual events. Some of this information is out-of-date. For example, the brochure lists “future” dates for the Florida Strawberry Festival, from 2009 to 2013. The chamber of commerce has worked with Heron Pub-
Mike Herr, Plant City city manager
lishing since 1991, for its directory, maps and website. Heron Publishing will be creating the new maps, the first 5,000 of which are expected to be delivered around the end of May. “Traditionally, maps have a reputation of being difficult to fold and handle. We have improved the design for easier handling,” Maria Kretschmar, a spokeswoman for Heron Publishing said.
She said the new design will also give greater visibility to the advertisements featured in the brochure. Heron Publishing, based in Spring Hill, serves and is a member of 25 chambers of commerce throughout Florida. “We are very proud to work with chambers of commerce and their members,” Kretschmar said. “They are the
business cornerstone of their community.” Smith is currently organizing sponsors and advertisers for the new maps. To inquire about being included, contact the chamber at (813) 754-3707. “It’s nice that we can offer our visitors this product for free,” Smith said. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
Sports
YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Ty’China Bush is the only PCHS athlete going to track and field states.7 SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2015
PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
SIDELINES Do you have a good sports scoop for us? Email Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com, or Tweet us at @ PCTOSports.
SPECIAL OLYMPICS
+ P.C. athlete to carry torch
In the last leg of the Special Olympics World Games Law Enforcement Torch Run, the athlete carrying the Flame of Hope will be none other than William Corsi. It was announced Monday, April 27, that Corsi, 32, had been selected to join the run. He will be the first Florida athlete to be chosen for the run, and one of 10 from all over the world. “He has been a Global Messenger for Special Olympics since 2006, delivering speeches and presentations across Florida to spread awareness of Special Olympics Florida and its many programs,” Special Olympics FloridaHillsborough County said in a release. “He was awarded the 2015 Athlete of the Year for Hillsborough County, has won several gold medals competing at Special Olympics events, and holds several leadership positions. He also is fundraising for new running shoes for his jaunt at World Games.”
basketball by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
PCHS hires Teeden for turnaround After posting a 2-17 record last season, Plant City High School managed to lure Billy Teeden away from district champion East Bay for a rebuilding project. With East Bay High, Billy Teeden’s biggest issue was making the drive from Plant City to Gibsonton. The 60-mile round trip was worth it, given the success he saw while leading the Indians basketball program from nothing to something. But he always wanted to be a greater part of the community. Now he has been given the chance to do that. Plant City High and Teeden announced April 3 that the East
Bay head coach will be taking over the Raiders program in the winter, giving him an opportunity to not only get more involved in the community he’s called home for 14 years, but also to tackle another rebuilding project on the court. “I’m really excited to have this opportunity to coach a school in my own community,” Teeden says. “It was really tough to leave East Bay because of the number of great
people there.” Raider fans probably remember Teeden’s 23-7 Indians squad picking up 70-53 and 7337 wins over Plant City in 2014, a handful of stepping stones en route to the Indians’ run to the FHSAA Regional Finals, where they took a 52-50 overtime loss to state runner-up Osceola. But the team wasn’t always that good: It took a lot of work to get to that point, and Teeden feels he can certainly use what he
learned for his new gig in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World.
TOUGH TIMES
Teeden actually began his coaching career with East Bay in 2005, serving as the JV team’s head coach, before transitioning to the girls game at Armwood High after two years. He came back to East Bay two sea-
SEE TEEDEN / PAGE 7
Courtesy photo
Billy Teeden leaves East Bay High after six years as the program’s head coach.
NEAR
PERFECTION FLAG FOOTBALL by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
SOCCER
+ Firefighter Games to wrap up
The Florida Firefighter Games, a statewide competition with 42 events, is wrapping up its 7v7 soccer tournament Friday, May 1, in Plant City. The semifinal and final rounds will be held at Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2401 E. Cherry St. The semis will begin at 9 a.m., and the gold and bronze-medal games will begin at 11 a.m. Most of the 12 competing squads come from county fire departments, with exceptions being the Tampa, St. Petersburg, Fort Lauderdale, Miami Beach and Hialeah teams. Other Games events include CrossFit, arm wrestling, trap shooting, football, golf and more. For additional information, visit FloridaFirefighterGames. com.
FITNESS
+ Free workouts begin this month
Anytime Fitness of Plant City is sponsoring “Free Workout Saturdays” at Dr. Martin Luther King Park, 1903 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., for the entire month of May. The workout sessions, which will begin at 10:30 a.m. every Saturday in May, include calisthenics, relay races, tug-of-war games and more, while also providing programs for people of all ages and fitness levels. “We want our community to be as healthy and active as possible – and we hope that the Free Workouts Saturdays will show folks that exercise can be fun,” Richard Ryan, owner of Anytime Fitness, said in a release. The exact location of the workouts is between the ball fields at the MLK park, and the area will be marked with several flags. For more information, visit AnytimeFitness.com.
File photo
Plant City quarterback Avery Brown launches a pass over a Strawberry Crest defender.
Plant City High’s flag football team finished the regular season undefeated. And, if not for the last play of the last game, they would have finished with no scores allowed. The Plant City Lady Raiders flag football team knew exactly what it was in for late in its April 20 game at Riverview. With a commanding 40-0 lead in the fourth quarter, the clock winding down and the Riverview girls looking all but defeated, their perfect season was pretty much in the bag. So the home team’s quarterback sneak as time expired was no big deal — even if it was the one play that ended the Plant City defense’s bid for a scoreless season. Such a play isn’t exactly allowed in flag football, but head coach Greg Meyer
and his team didn’t care. “Game ended when they scored,” Meyer says. “It was a QB sneak, which isn’t allowed, but they let it ride. We didn’t worry about it.” Therefore, Plant City finished the regular season with a 9-0 record, an average of 27.7 points scored and 0.7 allowed per game, and enough momentum heading into districts to topple a building. The players made everything happen on the field. But the seed was first planted in the offseason, when Meyer decided to switch up his
coaching philosophy. “Last year, I treated it like a completely different sport,” he says. “I think that was a big mistake. Now, our accountability and execution mirrors what we do with the boys. Last year was an abbreviated version, due to the rules, but the reality is that it’s the same game — just without the pads.” The girls go through the same practice plan as the boys and have all gained a better understanding of the game and Meyer’s plans. In fact, he says the girls have become so adept out there that there are few
times when he needs to call plays. The team’a main goal was when they set out at the beginning of the seaons was to win consistently, and the team’s results speak for themselves. But the Lady Raiders added another goal just a few games into the season, when the team noticed it hadn’t given up any points. It wanted to keep it that way through the entire season. “We didn’t have that goal right away but, once we realized in the third or fourth game that we hadn’t been scored on, we wanted to see how far we
could push it,” Meyer says. “I give all the credit to the girls.” The team’s proudest moment of the season was not finishing 9-0 and looking back on things, but it was instead the very first win of the year: a 26-0 victory at Durant. “We’re going against our rival, everyone’s nervous, and people want to find out what we’re all about,” Meyer says. “Durant did very well last year, and they’ve been a good team this year, but we beat them. That meant the world for us.”
FLAG FOOTBALL / PAGE 7
WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?
Notes from the district baseball tournament Also in the Federal Division, Before I get started here, I Durant pitcher and outfielder think a few shout-outs are in Jonah Scolaro and first order: I’ve gotten a baseman Zach Barfield copy of the Western made the second-team Conference All-County roster. team selections and In the National Diviyou’ll all be pleased to sion, Strawberry Crest know that our three ace Mark Moclair got schools are reprefirst-team honors, while sented. first baseman Alex From Plant City, Kachler and infielder congrats to Federal JUSTIN Logan Fernandez got Division first-team KLINE second-team honors. designated hitter and Now, about that district utilityman Connor Slagill, and tournament that just hapto pitcher Billy McKay, and pened. Perhaps it’s no surprise outfielder Sawyer Dawson for nabbing second-team honors. that Durant, the top seed in
the tournament, ended up winning it all. But the tournament itself was solid, from start to finish, even if things didn’t go quite as planned. Strawberry Crest started strong, picking up a 5-0 win over East Bay before facing Brandon, the district runner-up, in the semifinals. The Chargers got a strong five innings from freshman Damien Torres in that game, and Kachler led the team with two hits and an RBI. Freshman Tate Whatley was also a top offensive contributor, scoring two runs of his own.
Against Brandon, Eagles ace Antonio Velez wasn’t his usual self out on the mound. He did keep Crest hitters from making anything happen, but only struck out one batter. On the other hand, the Brandon offense got out to an early lead and never looked back, en route to its 3-0 victory. Playoff games are always tough to win, but this is especially true of a team hosting the tournament. And Brandon fans came out in droves. Plant City also made the semis, but their road was a little rockier than Crest’s. The
Raiders picked up a 2-1 win over Tampa Bay Tech to start things off and had to fend off a sixth-inning Titans rally to preserve the score. Dalton Wingo’s two RBI led the offense, and Jake Ralyea pitched six innings of two-hit ball to get the win. The semifinal game against Durant was a different story, as the two teams took a scoreless battle to an extra inning. You could say Plant City’s pitching was a little better that evening, giving up four combined hits
SEE KLINE / PAGE 7
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TEAM EFFORT by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Plant City gets physical at field day
THIS WEEK’S CROSSWORD ANSWERS
THIS WEEK’S CRYPTOQUIZ ANSWERS 1) Quadricycle 2) Racer 3) Model T 4) Assembly Line 5) Fair Lane. Henry Ford
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The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce hosted a Health and Fitness Challenge Friday, April 17, at Ellis-Methvin Park. Teams competed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in classic field games such as a sack race and tug of war, as well as more creative events such as a truck push and monkey bar course. Proceeds benefitted South Florida Baptist Hospital and the Kiwanis Club of Plant City, in addition to the chamber. The top competitors received medals and trophies at the end of the day.
Grady Hinchman from Planet Fitness showed off his soccer skills in a relay.
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Amy Glover, Heather Coats, Chris North and Hunter Wheaton represented ABM as a team. Below: Alex Caro accepted an extra challenge with her RICOH team and competed in the truck push.
One member of each team participated in the pass, punt and kick competition.
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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“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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ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM
TY’CHINA BUSH There’s only one member of the Plant City High track and field team moving on to Saturday’s FHSAA State Championships at the University of North Florida. Ty’China Bush, a senior, won both the discus and shot put events at the April 22 FHSAA Regionals competition and is looking to perform well both at states and in the upcoming AAU national tournaments. How are you feeling, going into Saturday’s competition? I’m a little nervous, but I know that my ranking, going into states, is pretty good. If I just focus on what I’ve been doing since the beginning of the year, following the steps that I’ve been practicing every day, then I should get it.
Basketball wasn’t your thing? Towards the end of the basketball season, I hurt my knee. I almost twisted my MCL, which is really bad for going into shot put for next year — I have to bend my knee in order to glide across the circle. It was just something to get me in shape for track season.
Where are you ranked, right now? In shot put, I’m ranked third. In discus, I’m ranked fourth.
When you’re not playing sports, what do you like to do for fun? I like to sing, so I’m in my school choir. I like to write poetry. I dabble in drawing.
You did well this season, but let’s look back on your career: How would you say things have been, up to this point? Things have went pretty well. Since my freshman year, I’ve been getting first (place) consistently. Freshman year, I got first in districts in shot put and didn’t do so well in discus. But I advanced to regionals. Sophomore year, I placed first in discus, third in regionals and went to states. Last year, I placed first in both of my events, and then got second place at regionals in both of my events. I went on to states and placed eighth in both of my events. It sounds like you picked up on the shot put pretty quickly, so what did you have to work on to get to this level with the discus? Just my footwork. It’s really a whole lot of footwork and using my hips to get the discus out there. When turning, I learned to not move my legs too wide. I learned to take smaller steps and really drive my hip forward to get a little more “oomph” in my throw. You competed at AAU Nationals last year, and you’re going again this year.What’s it like, competing at a big, national event like that and Junior Olympics? At first, it was frightening. But then, as I went and got to know some of the other throwers, they were really nice. They were talking to me. After that, it got less scary. I got to make new friends, meet people from different countries, and it was a lot of fun. How did you first get into shot put and discus? One of the coaches from my high school in Texas, he saw me walking down the halls, and he was like, “You have the body for a shot-putter. Would you like to try out for our track and field team this year?” I wasn’t really into sports back then, because I was kind of lazy, but I was like, “Hmm, I’ll try it.” I really liked it because it was something I was good at, and something I could excel in by myself. When you’re not doing your field events,do you play any other sports? I did basketball my junior year, for our team at school. Other than that, I’m also doing javelin throwing.
What’s your favorite style to sing? Pop. I have a lot of favorite artists, but I like Beyonce. What kind of drawings do you dabble in? Anime. Who’s your favorite athlete of all time? I don’t have a favorite athlete. I take all of my teachings from a lot of different athletes. I don’t look up to just one person. I take my little techniques here and there, learning styles, from a variety of different athletes. What is one sport you’ve never tried before, but were always interested in? Volleyball. It’s the fact that I know my brute force can get it over the net hard enough to where they probably won’t be able to hit it back. Any college prospects at the moment? Right now, my two prospective colleges that are looking at me for track are Bethune-Cookman and UCF. Do you know what you want to major in? Nursing. How’s this school year been going for you? Senior year, I wanted to get more involved because I’ve kind of been reserved throughout my high school career. I’m involved with Student Government, and I’m the public relations officer in my AVID club. If you could meet anyone you’ve ever looked up to, who would it be? President Obama. I just want to talk to him about the pressure that’s been on him. Coming into the presidency from George W. Bush’s term, he had a lot on his plate — a lot of mess that he had to deal with. A lot of rejection from everybody else who didn’t want him there. I would ask how was it on him, mentally and physically, being President. — Justin Kline
TEEDEN / PAGE 5 sons later to run the boys program, which hadn’t seen much success since his departure. “When I took over East Bay, they had only won six games in the previous three years,” Teeden says. “There was a big rebuilding process in that school. I enjoy starting from scratch and trying to rebuild a program.” Teeden knew that the team wasn’t set up to start winning right away, so he started by fixing the team’s attitude. A culture change, brought on by aiming for several small victories, got the kids to start believing in themselves. Once they get that self-confidence, Teeden says, the rest of the rebuilding process becomes much more manageable. “You have to change the culture,” he says. “You have to change the idea of, ‘We’re never gonna win.’ It starts with the little things — small victories. You can’t go expect to win a state title in your first year. “We went 7-15 in my first year, and were competitive, but we just didn’t know how to win. Once you get it going, they believe in themselves and you
FLAG FOOTBALL / PAGE 5 Perhaps the two most notable players are senior captains Samantha Black and Avery Brown. Black, a two-way player, didn’t lose a step since 2014 and kept the team motivated with both her play and her leadership. Brown, who returned to the team after taking a year off, regained her role as the team’s starting quarterback and led the offense to its high scoring average — including leading the team to a stretch of 124
KLINE / PAGE 5 to Durant’s six and only walking two batters. But it doesn’t matter: an eighth-inning RBI from Jake Sullivan, scoring Scolaro, sealed the deal, as Plant City couldn’t muster a comeback in the bottom of the eighth. Durant’s championship
can set higher goals and standards.” The team eventually morphed into the district powerhouse it is today, and the players garnered collegiate attention — most notably star point guard Jonathan Jean, who averaged 20.3 points, 6.4 assists and 2.7 steals per game, and recently signed with Furman University. Of course, all good things must come to an end.
CLOSER TO HOME
Teeden is a family man, with two young children, and has long wanted to be more active in the community they’re growing up in. So when previous Plant City coach Jerry Yoder left the position, Teeden took an interest. Only one coach, Pee Wee Callins, remains from Yoder’s tenure. Teeden has already put his staff together for the upcoming season, and is currently holding practices to get the Raiders ready for summer league games in Hillsborough County and collegiate camps at USF and Eckerd College. “It was pretty easy to get some guys to work here,” Teeden says. “That’s the thing
about this area: They’re hungry for a good team.” He knows that, as with East Bay, a complete turnaround probably isn’t going to happen with this team in year one. Teeden does, however, expect nothing but the best effort from his players, regardless of what the score looks like at the final buzzer. “We have to compete,” he says. “We have to be in every ball game. It’s just about setting standards. My first year at East Bay, I told the guys that they are the foundation. We might not win ‘em all, but we’d better be competitive.” Teeden hopes that letting the players learn to trust themselves on the court will lead to the desired result, and he does believe that the Raiders currently have some truly talented players. Rome wasn’t built in a day, they say, and Plant City’s program also won’t be. But if the school administration, players and fans wanted someone with a proven track record in this kind of situation, they got him. “It’ll all work itself out,” Teeden says. “The moment they’ve got that belief in themselves, the wins will come.”
points scored in four games. Meyer also credits several other girls with stepping up to make such a good season happen. “There have been surprising additions,” he says. “Taylor Michael: She’s become a two-way starter at wide receiver and outside linebacker, and done a phenomenal job. Taylor Williams is our anchor at middle linebacker. That’s been phenomenal. Jaquavia Youngblood and Bre Ruedeman, our two corners, and Jamie Beasley — outside linebacker, flag-pulling machine.”
The team may not have met its goal of not allowing a single score all year, but that doesn’t matter to the girls. They’ve had one of the best seasons in program history, up to this point, and one measly touchdown play couldn’t take that away from them. “I know they’ve done really well in the past,” Meyer says. “Me not being here, I don’t know how those years compare, but I definitely consider this to be a very special group.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.
game against Brandon was, for a while, Brandon’s game to lose. Although the Eagles didn’t get on the scoreboard until the fourth inning, the crowd was on fire and the nature of the atmosphere looked like it got in the Cougars’ heads early on. Indeed, a tough place to play a game. But after that fourth inning,
we got to see that Durant team that performed so well in the district this season. When Barfield hit that clutch triple, it seemed like someone hit the “mute” button on the Brandon fans. Scolaro was money from there on out and, by the end of the night, there was no doubt that Durant had earned that district title.
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Neighborhood R E A L E S TAT E | P L A N T C I T Y L I F E | O B I T U A R I E S | G A M E S | FA I T H
PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2015
FESTIVAL by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
Two Henrys beer was a popular choice for patrons.
Leah Austin loved having her face painted.
Blues Hall of Fame member Skip Frye wowed the crowd with his guitar skills.
Robert Jordan, of Smokin’ Aces BBQ, was among the festival’s many food vendors.
BLUEBERRY
BONANZA Thanks to the Tampa Bay Blueberry Festival, Plant City was the place to be last weekend. People from all over the Tampa Bay area flocked to Keel and Curley Winery from Friday, April 24, to Sunday, April 26, to celebrate the farm’s signature fruit, as well as the workers who make the local agricultural businesse thrive. U-Picks were offered all day, there were many food and craft vendors, and Keel and Curley was offering its finest wines and Two Henrys Brewing Company’s latest brews.
Shane Alexander and Kellie Corder
The kids zone kept the youngest blueberry fans entertained during the day. Chelsea Escobar couldn’t wait to eat some tasty blueberries.
The outdoor bar areas offered wine, beer and cider samplings.
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green day by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
THINK PINK by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Cork ‘flocks’ neighbors for fundraiser The prank is a fundraiser for the annual fifth grade class trip to Disney World.
Ted Stoltenkamp sold birdhouses and orchid pots made entirely from reclaimed lumber, saved from a landfill.
City celebrates Earth Day in the garden Where better to host an Earth Day celebration than the Plant City Community Garden? The Saturday festivities had dozens of vendors on site to sell their plants, foods and other sustainable wares, and the Southwest Florida Water Management District — with its friend, Officer Snook — educated people about water conservation. Every hour, workshops on sustainable living and going green were held in the shade. Right: Local merchants sold their ecofriendly wares.
Susie Fisher and Samantha Lane
If you step outside in the morning and discover that your yard has been graced with a flock of hot pink, plastic birds, you can be sure that the fifth graders at Cork Elementary School have something to do with it. Residents of the Plant City area have been “flocking” their friends to help the fifth graders at Cork raise money for an end-of-the-year celebration at Disney World. Every summer, students from Cork spend a day at Disney for one last hurrah together before heading off to middle school. Throughout the year, they have to fundraise for the trip. Earlier this year, the fifth grade class sold Yankee Candles and World’s Finest Chocolate. These sales helped the class raise about 80% of its $10,000 goal, which will cover transportation and ticket costs for the 100 fifth-grade students and their teachers. Organizers also hope to raise a little extra, so that next year’s fifth graders don’t have to start with an empty balance. But this spring, Shannon Scott, a fifth-grade PTA liaison at Cork, came up with a more creative type of fundraiser: bombarding Plant City with three, 20-bird flocks of plastic flamingos. “This is our last-ditch effort to keep the tickets down, so that some of the children that on the norm couldn’t go, can go,” Scott said. When someone is “flocked,”
Courtesy photo
It’s no secret that the flamingos that have been appearing in yards around Plant City were sent by the Cork Elementary fifth grade class. he or she can spend $10 to have the flamingos removed or $15 to have them removed and sent to a specific address. For those who are worried that others might later seek revenge, $20 sends the flock to a specific address and covers insurance so that the birds cannot return. “Most people have really gotten a kick out of it,” Scott said. “And it’s nice because we’ve been able to reach out to other people, other than just our Cork family.” Scott, fifth-grade teacher Jenny Joyner and some other
JOIN IN
To donate to Cork Elementary’s fifth grade class without the flocking call Shannon Scott at (863) 289-0519 or the school office at (813) 757-9353. volunteer parents are usually the ones moving the flocks from house to house. “Every once in a while we get caught putting them out in somebody’s yard, and they come out and they just laugh,” Scott said.
CUTESTCRITTER
K
The flamingos started at Principal Sherri Black’s house, and within the first two weeks, they had popped up in the yards of more than 30 Plant City families and brought in about $600. The fifth-grade class is well on its way to reaching that $10,000 goal and enjoying Disney World together. “It’s kind of a once-in-a-lifetime thing for some of them, and the kids just love it,” Scott said. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
risti Stewart says this about her pet babies: “Snicker-Doodle-JonasBeiber (mixed colors) and FatCat (black and white) love to (lie) by the window when the weather outside is cool. Usually the blinds are down. But when they want warmth they scratch at the blinds for us to pull them up. We love our babies!” Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center have partnered to present a weekly Cutest Critter Contest. Entering is simple: Just submit a high-resolution photo (200 dpi or better) and a sentence or two about why your pet is the cutest. Include your name and contact information. Winners will be showcased in the Plant City Times & Observer and will receive a free bag of dental chews to be picked up at Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center. Submit your entries to Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com; subject line: Cutest Critter Contest. Good luck!
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COMMUNITYCALENDAR
FRIDAY, MAY 1
Acoustic Happy Hour — music takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, May 1, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Christian Contemporary Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Friday, May 1, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220. Florida Firefighter Games — takes place beginning at 9 a.m. Friday, May 1, at Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2402 E. Cherry St. Munn Park Saints — takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 1, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 752-9100. Revival at Springhead United Methodist — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Friday, May 1, at Springhead United Methodist Church, 2301 Sparkman Road. The speaker will be Rev. Roy Arms, and music provided by Plant City Community Chorale.
SATURDAY, MAY 2 145th Hopewell Baptist Homecoming — takes place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 2, and 10 a.m. Sunday, May 3. Enjoy singing under the big tent. The celebration service will be Sunday,
followed by the best country church cooking around. (813) 737-3053. Bike Fest — takes place from 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 2, in Historic Downtown Plant City. A concert, 50/50 raffle and poker walk will be part of the festivities. Call (813) 754-3707 for more information. Mark Barrios Live! — takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 752-9100. Soccer Tri-Star Skills Competition — takes place from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2402 E. Cherry St. This free event allow youths ages 6 to 14 to compete (boys and girls separately) in four age groups (6 to 7, 8 to 9, 10 to 11, 12 to 14). Dribbling, passing and shooting skills are tested. No preregistration is required. Contact Recreation Assistant Program Manager Tim Hanlon at thanlon@plantcitygov.com for more details or call (813) 659-4255. Winery to the Rescue! Pet Friendly Awareness Day — takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. Enjoy music, vendors, food and pet vendors. (813) 752-9100. Young Adult Nite — takes
place from 7:33 to 10:33 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Enjoy live music from local artists. (813) 752-1220.
MONDAY, MAY 4 Celebrate Recovery — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Monday, May 4, at Parkway Baptist Church, 4305 James L. Redman Parkway. A free recovery program for those struggling with addictions, depression, co-depency, anger and grief. Contact Lauren at (813) 7634355 for more information. Relay for Life Wrap-Up Party — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Monday, May 4, at Plant City’s First Baptist Church, 503 N. Palmer St.
TUESDAY, MAY 5 The Recovery for Life — takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, 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, MAY 6 Cristi Massey Live! — takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 7529100.
Economic Development Opportunities Forum — takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, at the John R. Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road. Plant City’s government and business leaders invite you to learn why Plant City is the best location for your business and find out the steps being taken to welcome your business. Network Professionals Inc. — meets from 8 to 9:15 a.m. Wednesday, May 6, at IHOP, 805 S. Collins Street. For more information call Guy Howerton at (813) 310-2860. New Member Reception — takes place from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St. Open Mic Night — takes place beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Plant City Local Harvest Farmers Market — takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. PCLocalHarvestFarmersmarket. com.
THURSDAY, MAY 7 Autoimmune Disorders Myth vs. Fact — takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 7, at South Florida Baptist Hospital’s
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.
BEST BET Jeans and Jacket Gala — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, at Kathleen’s Garden, 5701 Pless Road. Buddy Bennett will posthumously receive the Mike Storter award. This year’s new format and venue will benefit the non profit, The Youth Alliance. (813) 719-0245. Cancer Resource Center, 1706 W. Palmetto Ave. Free.
FRIDAY, MAY 8 Plant City Social Dance Club — takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 8, at the Florida National Guard Armory, 4004 Airport Road. DJ Mike Unwin will perform. $6 for members; $8 for non-members. Singles and couples welcome. PCSocialDanceClub@mail.com
SATURDAY, MAY 9 Lions Club Picnic — takes
place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at Edward Medard Park, 5726 Panther Loop. The club is hosting a membership drive and also wants to thank those who helped out with the golf tournament, Strawberry Queen Pageant and food booth project. Must RSVP by April 29. (813) 215-7198. Youth Group Garage Sale — takes place from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at First United Methodist Church, 202 W. Reynolds St. The sale will benefit the youth mission trip.
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OBSERVER OBITUARIES Terry “Strawberry” Bane
Terry “Strawberry” Bane, 53, formerly of Plant City, died April 18, 2015, in Kentucky. He was born Sept. 8, 1961, in Tampa. Mr. Bane was a truck driver for many years. He enjoyed model trains, going out to eat and spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed making people laugh and pulling pranks. He will be missed by many. Surviving are his mother, Betty Cooper; wife, Laura Ann Bane; son, Terry Bane II; brothers, Carl Robert Bane and Allen Bane; and nephews, Paul and Christopher Bane. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
Rocky Michael Bianchi
Rocky Michael Bianchi, 65, of Plant City, died April 23, 2015. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served in the Vietnam War, and was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor and the Purple Heart. He loved his family, and he was an avid sportsman. He is survived by his wife, Gwen Bianchi; children, Heather Bianchi and Kyle Bianchi (Cara); granddaughter, Alexis Williams; mother, Hilda Bianchi; and sister, MaryAnn Bianchi. A graveside service was held April 27, at Springhead Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Ronald Lee “Ronnie” Collins
Ronald Lee “Ronnie” Collins, 66, of Valrico, died April 20, 2015, after declining health for several years. Born and raised in Danville, Virginia, he had worked alongside his father in produce since he was a small boy. Produce was the thrill of his day, the drive in his mind, the joy in his heart and the excitement of his life. He settled in Valrico in 1997, and he transformed a vacant lot into one of the most respected produce markets in the area. He worked night and day, not for the need, but for the love of produce and his lifelong vision. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Lisa Collins; children, Tausha Ann Cooper (Casey), Ronald Lee Collins Jr., Buster Collins (fiancee, Kaci Compton), Jeff Collins (Michelle) and Jody Collins (Carolyn); grandchildren, Alyssa Cooper, Charles Cooper, and Ronald III, Carlos, Aaron, Noah, Megan and Nick Collins; siblings, Harriet Bray, Candice Collins, Robin Barrett and Harry Collins Jr.; nephew, Spencer Harrelson; mother-in-law, Barbara Spencer; and cousins, Bonnie Wilkins and Amanda Tarte. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Lee and Hazel New Collins. A celebration of life was held April 24, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Elizabeth “Betty” Delorme
Elizabeth “Betty” Delorme, 86, of Bradenton, and formerly of Plant City, died April 19, 2015, at home. A native of Burlington, Vermont, she was the daughter of the late Nelson and Ruth Muir St’Amour. She is survived by her son, Gary Delorme, who will be having private services. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Delorme. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
Sarojini Aricmary “Arica” Spry Harris
Sarojini Aricmary “Arica” Spry Harris, 69, of Plant City, and formerly of Lakeland, died April 22, 2015. She was born in Bombay, India, in 1946. She was a dedicated mother and
grandmother, and had an entrepreneurial spirit. She co-founded The Red Top Pit Stop restaurant in Lakeland. She is survived by her children, Sandra Spry (Keith Hamm), Lavina Spry (Tom Kramer) and Elvis Harris; life partner, James Matthews; siblings, Annamary Michael, Rosemary Michael and Vincent Michael (Rita Michael); grandchildren, Arika, Rachel, Christina (Danny), Lyndsy, Alyssa, Ashlee, Adam and Christopher; nine great-grandchildren; and many other family and friends. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Annarose Spry. A funeral Mass will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 9, at St. Joseph Catholic Church Lakeland, where the family will receive friends beginning at 10:30 a.m. Interment to follow at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Jack L. Pettis
Robert Kelley
Barbara Sandifer Powers
Robert Kelley, 63, of Plant City, died April 24, 2015. He was a boilermaker with Local Union 433. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Anita; children, Rob Kelley and Sommer Kelley; father, Edward Kelley; brothers, Paul Kelley and Rick Kelley; and “granddogs,” Shady and Kirby Boo Boo. He was preceded in death by his mother, Loretta Kelley; and sister, Karen Kelley. A celebration of life was held April 28, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Marian Morrell
Marian Morrell, 90, died April 25, 2015, at her home in Plant City. Mrs. Morrell was born in New Castle, Indiana, to William and Ruby Hosek. Her favorite hobby was bowling. Loving family who survive are Mary Ann Spurlin (Richard); grandchildren, Richard and Angela Spurlin; and great-grandchildren, Alyssa and Trey. She was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Gerald Dean Morrell. The family would like to give special thanks to the Aqua Team at LifePath Hospice. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.
Geraldine Myatt
Geraldine Myatt, 77, of Plant City, died April 16, 2015. She is survived by a loving family. Funeral arrangements made by Central Florida Casket Store & Funeral Chapel, Lakeland.
Irene O’Dell
Irene O’Dell, 65, of Tampa, and formerly Plant City, died April 20, 2015. She was a member of Northgate Baptist Church in Tampa. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Bill O’Dell; children, John O’Dell (Tammy), Sherron Harmon (Troy), Dwayne O’Dell (Tami) and Jason O’Dell; best friend of 50 years, Mary Howell; and nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. A graveside service was held April 24, at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Bolivar Melendez Perez
Bolivar Melendez Perez, 80, of Plant City, died April 24, 2015. He is survived by his children, Bolivar Melendez Colon Jr., Myriam Melendez Colon and Gerardo Melendez Colon; brother, Juan Melendez Perez; and five grandchildren. A celebration of life was held April 29, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Jack L. Pettis, 79, of Plant City, and born in Tampa, died April 25, 2015, surrounded by his family at home. Mr. Pettis served in the U.S. Navy for 10 years, later retired from Cargill and then worked as a commercial real estate agent until his illness. He loved hunting, golfing and being with his family. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Pettis; sons, Robert (Donna) and Jack L. Pettis Jr.; daughters, Jo-An Lusk (Rob) and Jeanne Stearns (Stacy); grandchildren, Bryan Pettis, Lisa Johnson (Jason), Charlie Lusk (Shannon), Cody Lusk (Angela), Jessica Pettis, Ashley Stearns and Clint Stearns; and greatgrandchildren, Sam Johnson, Ava Johnson, Aubrey Lusk, Braylee Lusk, and soon to come, Jensen Lusk. Donations can be made to LifePath Hospice/Aqua Team, 3010 W Azeele St., Tampa, 33609. Barbara Sandifer Powers, 57, of Plant City, died April 20, 2015, in hospice care, after her courageous, three-anda-half year battle with cancer. Mrs. Powers was born June 24, 1957, in Bartow. She grew up in Lithia and graduated from Plant City High School in 1975. She attended Hillsborough Community College. She was active in many civic and service organizations, especially the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. She owned and operated Barbara Powers Promotions Inc., a recipient of the Small Business of the Year award. She loved to fish, boat, play golf, bake, entertain her family and friends and travel. She loved to laugh and make people laugh. She will be deeply missed. One of her favorite Bible passages was Isaiah 41:10: ”Do not fear, for l am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” She is survived by her husband and best friend of 25 years, Matt; identical twin sister, Brenda; sister, Karen; brother, James; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. A special thanks to Dr. Simeon Jaggernauth, the Dream Team and the entire staff of Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Lifepath Hospice. A celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at Hopewell Funeral Home, where the family will receive friends beginning at 2 p.m. Interment at Fitzgerald Cemetery, Lakeland. ln lieu of flowers, please make donations in Mrs. Powers’ memory to H8 Cancer Foundation, 11063-D South Memorial Drive, Suite 211, Tulsa, Oklahoma, 74133. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Letha Slaton
Letha Slaton, 91, died April 27, 2015, in Plant City. Mrs. Slaton moved from Kentucky to Florida in 1958. She was a longtime member of Whitehurst Road Baptist Church and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She is survived by sons, James Dewey Slaton (Ruth), Anthony Russell Slaton (Pam) and Darol Wayne Slaton (Nonnie Mae); and six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband of 43 years, Armond Slaton. A funeral service will be held May 1, at Wells Memorial Funeral Home, burial at Lakeland Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in her honor to Whitehurst Road Baptist Church. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.
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SPRING FEVER
FLORAL FRENZYby Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Flowering into Spring The Futch family will be hosting their first ever spring-themed event on the site of their autumn corn maze. The fields at the Futch ranch are already growing green again, but this time, it’s not in preparation for the Fox Squirrel Corn Maze festival. Instead, the Futches are offering a new event this season that promises to be as fresh and fragrant as the spring air. The family’s field is going to be covered with sunflowers, and a festival will be held. “We want to have several events out on the ranch. We like sharing it with people from all over,” Janet Futch, of Futch Entertainment, said. “They enjoyed the corn maze so much and being out in the tranquil setting. (Sunflowers at the Ranch) is going to be similar, but not the same. A little more laid back.” Sunflowers at the Ranch is not a maze, but there are paths through five acres of fields of sunflowers, zinnias and other wildflowers. Visitors are likely to see an abundance of butterflies and might catch a glimpse of one of the famous fox squirrels. After strolling among the blooms, there will be a host of games and activities for families to enjoy, like at the October corn maze. The General Store will be open, catering to antique collectors or anyone looking for eclectic and “shabby chic” items. No one will have to
IF YOU GO
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 2, May 3, May 9 and May 10; Gates close at 5 p.m. Where: Futch Farms, 3002 Charlie Taylor Road, Plant City Admission: Adults 18 and older: $8; Ages 3 to 17: $7; Children 2 and under: Free. More info: FoxSquirrelCornMaze.com
go hungry, with sizzling options such as corn on the cob, burgers, pulled pork and hot dogs. Everyone will also have a chance to express their artistic abilities. “Instead of painting pumpkins, (we’re) going to have this craft station for children and adults to enjoy together,” Futch said. Wooden birdhouses and flowers will be available for painting. Sunflowers at the Ranch will be open for the first two weekends in May and coincide with Mothers’ Day. “We’ve heard about other fields that are out there and thought, ‘Let’s do something around Mothers’ Day.’ What better thing to do than flowers?” Futch said.
SPRING FEVER
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THE BIRDS AND THE BEES by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Pollinator Paradise Where would Plant City be without pollinators? Certain crop plants, such as squash and cucumber, would never bear fruit. The Garden Club would probably cease to exist, and the downtown farmers’ market certainly would not have sweet, local honey for sale. This spring and summer, when you are enjoying the great outdoors, don’t forget to thank the birds and the bees for all of their hard work to keep Plant City beautiful and help some of its farmers succeed. Flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, which suck up the sweet nectar within. Bats come in contact with flowers as they hunt for insects or eat trees’ fruit. And bees collect prized pollen to take back to their hives. When these pollinators move on to another flower, the pollen they inadvertently or purposefully collected at the previous flower rubs off. This allows the flower’s reproduction cycle to continue. Many times, the plant involved is not just ornamental, but an agricultural crop. “We have lost the vast majority of pollinators because of loss of habitat, and also because of spraying chemicals in our yards,” Peter Sleszynski, an instructor of environmental science at Hillsborough Community College, Plant City, said. “I’m an ecologist by trade and see the value of every single one of them.”
INSECTS
Butterflies are some of the most beloved insects all over the world, often because they are bright and beautiful and pose absolutely no threat to humans. But any gardener knows that butterflies are more than just a fluttering embellishment amongst the flowers. “Butterflies are a sign of a good ecyosystem, which
POLLINATORFRIENDLY GARDENING WORKSHOPS THIS MAY The UF/IFAS Hillsborough County Extension hosts a number of gardening workshops each month at libraries around the county.
Catherine Sinclair
When insects land on a flower, they collect pollen from the flower’s anthers. means everything is wellbalanced,” Christy Linke, who is an officer in the Plant City Garden Club and chair of the Birds, Bees and Butterflies committee for the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, said. Many other insects pollinate like butterflies, including beetles, flies and bees. They help the blossoms beautify Plant City’s many gardens and parks. Linke recommends plants such as dutchman’s pipevine, cassia, fennel, passion vine, native paw paw shrub and white swamp milkweed for attracting butterflies. Milkweed is particularly important because it is the host plant for caterpillars of the endangered monarch butterfly. “Try to combine several plants of the same species in a large grouping, with clusters of colors, which seems to be more apparent and attractive to adult butterflies,” Linke said. “Provide a mix of colors, shapes and sizes of flowers. Bottom line when it comes to choosing adult nectar sources for your garden is diversity.”
BATS
Many people have a fear of bats because of certain common myths and stereotypes about them. But it is important to look out for the wellbeing of these aerial mammals.
One of the biggest threats to bats is deforestation, which leads to habitat loss. Also, their sources of food might soon become scarce, because of the abundance of chemicals used to kill off tasty treats such as mosquitoes and moths. “In our society, we have become very accustomed to using chemicals for most of the things we do,” Sleszynski said. “Some of it is simply not necessary.” If bats are taken care of, there might not be such a need for those harsh pesticides. “The amount of insects that they consume is staggering,” Sleszynski said. “So that’s another solution to spraying, if you have a lot of bats naturally that eat the insects.” There is a bat house, supplied by the University of Florida, in the teaching garden at HCC Plant City, where Sleszynski teaches students about pollinators and many other environmental issues. The garden’s success is thanks, in part, to the bats that have taken up residence there. There is minimal risk to human health by attracting bats to your yard and supporting bat conservation efforts. For instructions on how to build a bat house similar to the one at HCC Plant City, go to edis.ifas. ufl.edu/uw290.
Introduction to Beekeeping 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 6 Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico Wildflowers, Native Plants and Native Ferns 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 12 Seffner-Mango Branch Library, 410 N. Kingsway Road, Seffner Attracting Wildlife to Your Backyard 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 19 Charles J. Fendig Public Library, 3909 W. Neptune St., Tampa Butterfly Gardening 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 26 C. Blythe Andrews Jr. Public Library, 2607 E. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Tampa
ALLERGY TIPS & YOUR HEALTH
Spring is a great season to go outdoors and enjoy the recreational activities that might have been put on hold over the winter. But there are certain health concerns that might inhibit you from getting out there and marveling at the world as it comes back to life. South Florida Baptist Hosptial is a great resource for springing forward to improvements in your health, right here in town. Whether through classes or the personal care of its physicians, the hospital likely can offer exactly the help you might need. One of the most prominent health concerns this season is pollen allergies. If you are affected by these allergies, the hospital’s website offers some tips for lessening your symptoms. Wear clothing made of natural fibers, such as cotton. Synthetic fabrics are more likely to rub together and create a static charge that will attract pollen. If you run, bike, walk or participate in other forms of outdoor exercise, do these activities when pollen counts are lowest: before dawn or in the early evening. If you are exercising or gardening, or if there is another reason you will be outside for an extended length of time, take a non-drowsy antihistamine about half an hour in advance. After spending time outside, do not touch your eyes or face. Wash your hands as soon as you return inside. Vacuum regularly, shower often and leave your shoes by the door to limit indoor allergens’ effects this time of year. If your allergy medications do not seem to be effective, you might want to consider allergy shots. Though there are not currently any residential allergy specialists at South Florida Baptist Hospital, they are available at other BayCare institutions. Go to baycare. org/find-a-doctor. South Florida Baptist Hospital also offers a variety of
SPRING INTO A NEW YOU
All events are at South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St., unless otherwise noted. BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS Date: 1 to 2 p.m., Tuesdays Cost: Free Details: No appointment is necessary. This event recurs every Tuesday. CHOLESTEROL SCREENINGS Date: 2 to 3 p.m., every fourth Tuesday Cost: $30 Details: No appointment is necessary. CPR BLS RECERTIFICATION Date: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, May 4 Cost: $40 Details: This class provides basic life support recertification for health care workers. To receive a new card, students must pass a written test at the end of the course. SMOKING CESSATION Date: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 7 Location: SFBH Cancer Resource Center, 1708 Palmetto Ave. Cost: Free Details: This class offers valuable tools to help attendees quit the use of tobacco, and includes four free weeks of patches, gum or lozenges. WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY INFO SESSION Date: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 11 Location: Medical Arts Center main lobby, 1601 W. Timberlane Drive Cost: Free Details: Guests will meet a surgeon and be able to ask questions about their options for weight loss surgery. SAFE SITTER Date: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 16 Cost: $55 Details: Current and future babysitters can learn how to handle casual to life-threatening situations such as choking, general safety and even entertainment.
programs every month, covering topics, such as weight loss, blood pressure, CPR and steps toward quitting smoking, for free.
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SPRING FEVER
SUMMER CAMPS
Every kids loves summer vacation for, among other things, the three-month break from school, homework and everything else that cuts into fun time. There are plenty of kid-centric activities in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World that are getting ready to start up, and you parents have plenty of time to get your young ones registered. The Plant City Times & Observer is here to help you find whatever it is you’re looking for around town. Justin Kline
CAMP INVENTION
WHEN: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.,
June 15 to 19 WHERE: John R. Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road COST: $230 per camper; CampInvention.org, or 1 (800) 968-4332 INFO: The STEM-centric summer camp challenges students to use their brainpower to create, innovate and work together. The camp is open to all young minds from kindergarten through the sixth grade, and is headed by Walden Lake Elementary teacher Paul Coletti. CONTACT: Paul Coletti, (813) 951-6266 or pacman1988@ hotmail.com.
YMCA SUMMER CAMP: BE YOUR OWN SUPERHERO WHEN: June 8 to August 21 WHERE: 1507 YMCA Place COST: Costs vary based on pro-
gram and YMCA membership, which is not required to enroll in a camp. For more information, and to register online, visit TampaYMCA.org/plantcity. Info: The traditional summer day camp, for ages 5 to 12, has campers completing educational and team-based activities to learn core values, and also includes some fun time in the pool. The sports camp, for ages 5 to 12, offers specialized training in games such as football, baseball, soccer and volleyball. The leaders in training (L.I.T.) Camp, for ages 13 to 16, teaches teens how to work better in teams, use leadership skills and prepare for the real world while mentoring younger campers.
2015 SUMMER CHEERLEADING CLINIC WHEN: July 21 and 22
WHERE: 1 Raider Place COST: $70 per camp; Karen
Snapp, karen.snapp@ sdhc.k12.fl.us or (813) 757-9370; Registration forms at PlantCityGov.com/ DocumentCenter/View/19962 INFO: Kids ages 4 to 13 can learn the stunts of the cheerleading trade with Plant City High head coach Karen Snapp at the high school gymnasium. All campers are asked to wear a t-shirt, shorts and sneakers, and something to keep hair out of the face. No jewelry is allowed. Campers are also required to bring their own water bottle and lunch.
2015 SUMMER SOCCER CAMP
WHEN: July 19 to 24 WHERE: Otis M. Andrews
Sports Complex, 2602 E. Cherry St., June; Ellis-Methvin Park soccer fields, 2401 E. Cherry St., July/August COST: $125 per player per camp; FCPlantCity.com/2014Soccer-Camps INFO: Soccer players age 8 to 18 can develop their game with help from FC Plant City. Local athlete Omar Castro, who now plays for Bundesliga club Eintracht Braunschweig, will be back in town June 8 to 12 to host his annual Soccer Challenge Camp. Soccer veteran Ziggy Zigante’s goalkeeper and shooting camp will be held from July 19 to 24. Closing out the summer will be the technique/skills camp, with FCPC Technical Director Greg Petersen, held from August 17 to 21. The August camp is also open for children as young as 4.
2015 SUMMER BASKETBALL CLINIC WHEN: June 15 to 18
WHERE: 1 Raider Place COST: $115 per camper;
William Teeden, (813) 9677551; Wilt Wilkerson, (813) 944-8727. INFO: Young ballers, age 6 to 14, are welcome at the Plant City High gymnasium if they want to fine-tune their skills and get some more buckets. The school’s boys and girls head coaches, William Teeden and Wilt Wilkerson, are hosting the clinic from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
P.C. REC & PARKS YOUTH SUMMER PROGRAMS
WHERE: Planteen Rec Center, 301 Dort St.; MLK Rec Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. WHEN: June 8 to August 14 COST: $300 (MLK) and $400 (Planteen) per camper; payment plans are available.
FAITH-BASED PROGRAMS SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH
VBS & YOUTH WILD WEEK WHEN: June 21 to 25 WHERE: Shiloh Baptist Church Worship Center, 905 W. Terrace Drive ADULT VBS WHEN: 6 to 9 p.m., June 21 to 25 WHERE: Shiloh Baptist Church Family Life Center, 905 W. Terrace Drive
PARKWAY BAPTIST CHURCH VBS
WHEN: July 19 to 23 Where: Parkway Baptist Church, 4305 James L. Redman Parkway
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF PLANT CITY VBS
WHEN: June 22 to 26 WHERE: First Baptist Church
LONE OAK BAPTIST CHURCH
of Plant City, 501 N. Palmer St. CENTRIKID CAMP WHEN: June 29 to July 3. WHERE: First Baptist Church of Plant City, 501 N. Palmer St. MFUGE SUMMER CAMP WHEN: July 6 to 10 WHERE: First Baptist Church of Plant City, 501 N. Palmer St.
EVANGELICAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF PLANT CITY
CHURCH ON THE ROCK
YOUTH CAMP WHEN: July 13 to 17 WHERE: Lone Oak Baptist Church, 3001 Lone Oak Road VBS WHEN: July 20 to 25 WHERE: Lone Oak Baptist Church, 3001 Lone Oak Road
SURF CAMP WHEN: June 7 to 12 WHERE: Cocoa Beach
HOPEWELL BAPTIST CHURCH VBS
WHEN: June 15 to 19. WHERE: Hopewell Baptist
Church, 6001 C.R. 39 S.
HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH VBS
WHEN: July 26 to 30 WHERE: Hope Lutheran
Church, 2001 N. Park Road
Contact Jason Hargrove, (813) 659-4256 (Planteen); Lillie Brown, (813) 757-9196 (MLK). INFO: The Plant City Recreation & Parks Dept. is hosting several youth summer programs at the Planteen and the Martin Luther King recreation centers for any child who has completed kindergarten. Each program runs from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for 10 weeks. The Planteen rec center will host campers aged 6 to 15, while the MLK Center will host campers aged 5 to 11. In addition to indoor and outdoor activities, both camps will feature trips to the Lowry Park Zoo, Wet ’n’ Wild and Fun Spot. Transportation, along with camp shirts, will be provided.
SENSHI DO KAI STREET FIGHTER SUMMER CAMP
WHERE: 2909 James L. Redman Parkway WHEN: June 8 to August 21 COST: $55 per session; (813) 754-4128 or SenshiDoKaimma.com
VBS
WHEN: July 13 to 17 WHERE: Church on the Rock,
301 E. Alsobrook St.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF DOVER
CENTRIKID SUMMER CAMP
WHEN: June 22 to 26 WHERE: First Baptist Church
of Dover, 3223 N. Gallagher Road, Dover YOUTH SUMMER CAMP WHEN: July 5 to 11 WHERE: First Baptist Church of Dover, 3223 N. Gallagher Road, Dover VBS WHEN: July 12 to 16 WHERE: First Baptist Church of Dover, 3223 N. Gallagher Road, Dover INFO: Inspired by the popular “Street Fighter” video game series, Senshi Do Kai MMA’s summer camp will promote its “Bully-Proof” program and teach campers self-defense skills and bullying prevention advice. There will be breaks in between the five-day camps, and includes trips to Legoland, Dinosaur World, SeaWorld and more.
MIKE GOTTMAN YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMP WHERE: 4748 Cougar Path
WHEN: June 8 to 11; DurantCougarsFootball. com or Facebook.com/ DurantCougarsFootball COST: $125 per person; preregistration will be held at 8 a.m. June 6, at the school gymnasium, and the coaches will also accept on-site registrations June 8. INFO: Durant High head football coach Mike Gottman hosts an annual summer skills and drills camp at the high school’s practice field. Gottman’s camp caters to everyone from fifth graders to incoming freshmen. The camp will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
TURKEY CREEK STABLES HORSE CAMP WHEN: Beginning June 8
WHERE: 5534 Turkey Creek
Road.
COST: $150 per week or $50
per day; (813) 737-1312 or TurkeyCreekStables.net. INFO: You don’t have to be a kid to learn how to ride and care for a horse this summer. Turkey Creek Stables’ summer camp is open to anyone 7 and older. Campers can choose their own horse and learn the ins and outs of horseback riding and more. All campers must bring their own lunch on most days, but the stables will have a hot dog cookout for the campers and staff every Friday. Campers may arrive as early as 7:30 a.m., with first ride starting at 9 a.m., and they must be picked up by 6 p.m. Riders must wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. Anyone under age 16 must wear a helmet when riding in Edward Medard Park.
0,!.4 #)49 4)-%3 /"3%26%2 &2)$!9 -!9
WEATHER
THURS. April 23
0.29
FRI.
TEMPERATURES
April 24
0.00
SAT.
0.00
SUN.
April 26
0.00
MON.
TUES.
April 28
0.75
WED.
April 29
0.00
APRIL
TO DATE
4.22 (2014: 2.52)
YEAR
HIGH 82 84 88 89 89 91 92
Friday, May 1 Saturday, May 2 Sunday, May 3 Monday, May 4 Tuesday, May 5 Wednesday, May 6 Thursday, May 7
April 25
0.00
SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES SUNRISE 6:49 a.m. 6:48 a.m. 6:47 a.m. 6:47 a.m. 6:46 a.m. 6:45 a.m. 6:44 a.m.
Friday, May 1 Saturday, May 2 Sunday, May 3 Monday, May 4 Tuesday, May 5 Wednesday, May 6 Thursday, May 7
SUNSET 8:02 p.m. 8:03 p.m. 8:03 p.m. 8:04 p.m. 8:04 p.m. 8:05 p.m. 8:06 p.m.
LOW 57 61 66 68 69 70 71
MOON PHASES
May 3
May 11
CUCUMBERS
SHIPPING POINT: Orlando
$8.35 to $8.95
May 17
Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture
TO DATE 10.50 (2014: 7.05)
May 25
Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a prolific inventor. Using the hints P=E and K=L, decipher the clues to name the inventor.
1. F O H X V C B M B K P 2. V H B P V 3. D Q X P K N 4. H W W P D R K M K C G P 5. J H C V K H G P
This inventor revolutionized the field of transportation:
SUDOKU
Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 through 9 in each row, column and box.
8
2
3
1 6
9
6 3
6
7 6
4
5 7
1 6
9 5
3
5
5
4
3 1
8 2
6 3
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Jim Church calls his photo “Taking the slow road.” Plant City has many beautiful places for Jim and Maria Church to drive their beautiful Morgan horse, Polly. 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.
CROSSWORD VOID YOUR WARRANTY by Jill Pepper
CRYPTOQUIZ
1
PLANT CITY
RAIN
(INCHES)
April 27
3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP
8
ACROSS 1 Buccaneers’ home 6 Sharp mountain ridge 11 Grind down 16 U.K. television network 19 Certain exams 20 Russian country house 21 Gave a great review 22 ___ de Janeiro 23 Barely begin 26 Bird-to-be 27 X-shaped cross 28 Forebodings 29 Con 31 Condo division 32 Parenthesis, essentially 34 Little toymaker 35 Branch 37 Religious image (var.) 38 French door part 39 Darjeeling or oolong 40 Home of the Taj Mahal 42 “Let it stand” 43 Botch things 46 Smallish table adornment 48 Picks from a menu 52 Eurasian diving duck 54 “How distasteful!” 55 Adversaries 57 Conventions 58 Deep blue gem 60 Prior to, old-style 61 Crazy way to run 62 Feeling of affection, with a cutesy spelling 63 Big deal 64 Rouses from sleep 66 Chance occurrence 67 PR company’s focus, sometimes 71 When repeated, a dance 72 Port of Belgium 74 Common deciduous tree 75 Stomach acid, to a chemist 76 Sounds of disapproval 77 Actor Jackie and family 78 Gives emphasis to 81 Raymond and Aaron 82 Congers 83 Make a choice 84 Song for you and I 85 Period of greatest success 86 Religious groups 89 The world’s largest freshwater lake 91 Pain-reliever’s target 93 Pro basketball game locale 94 .001 of an inch 95 Fireplace shelves 99 Casual talk 100 ___ Aviv 101 Org. for Venus and Serena Williams 104 Building add-on 105 Departure 106 Curve enhancer 108 City of Tuscany 110 It’s short on stories 112 .0000001 joule
©2015 Universal Uclick
113 Harsh rebuttal 117 Payable now 118 4:1, e.g. 119 “Same for me” 120 Musical selection 121 Non-P.C. suffix 122 Turn topsy-turvy 123 Worn and shabby, as a motel 124 Bridge positions DOWN 1 Difficult-to-predict outcome 2 Mysterious stuff 3 “The Old Man and the Sea” fish 4 Missouri feeder 5 ___ Spumante 6 Attaches 7 Sewer rodent 8 Audio effect 9 A restaurant may have one 10 Chart holder 11 Blows it 12 Churchill’s “so few” (Abbr.) 13 Eggs, biologically 14 Point in math class? 15 Adam’s home 16 Post a best-ever score
17 Water temperature tester, sometimes 18 Convincing, as an argument 24 Jalopies 25 Ill-suited 30 Identified wrongly 33 Tapioca plant 35 “Haste makes waste,” e.g. 36 Rolling in dough 41 Brain cell 43 Robinson or Doubtfire 44 Official in a mask, briefly 45 Vigor 47 Butcher’s awful waste? 48 City near Boys Town, Nebraska 49 Type of novel 50 Let someone walk? 51 “Oh no, a mouse!” 53 Eliminated, mob-style 56 Portuguese lady 58 Pump in the basement 59 Altar avowal 60 Missing from the USMC, e.g. 62 Lawrence of Scandinavia 64 More than one 32-Across 65 Fresh-mouthed 67 Thickheaded 68 Ill-gains link
69 Ring bearer, often 70 It’s commonly requested 73 Pickpocket targets 76 Pay the price for 78 Salesman’s preparation 79 Grinder 80 Caribbean, e.g. 81 ___ canto 83 Beast of fairy tales 85 Attention-getting shout 87 Dirty, run-down digs 88 Horror sequel of 2005 90 Wet blanket 91 Knuckle under 92 Musical refrain 95 Abdominal anomaly 96 Rust causes 97 Split 98 Cordwood units 102 Serves brewski after brewski 103 Dickinson of TV and film 107 Hosiery shade 108 Wearing wingtips, e.g. 109 “Laugh-In” comic Johnson 111 Use a sponge 114 One for the off-road 115 Transgression 116 Airport sched. letters
3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP
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