01.06.17 PCTO by Plant City Observer

PLANT CITY TIMES &

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 4, NO. 26

YOUR TOWN City encourages recycling of used cooking, motor oil The City of Plant City is encouraging residents to recycle used cooking and motor oil from the holiday season instead of pouring it down a drain. Residents can bring used cooking oil to the Public Used Oil Center for recycling, located at 1500 W. Victoria St. in Plant City. According to Sharon Spires, industrial pretreatment coordinator for the City of Plant City, pouring grease and cooking oil down the drains can cause costly cleaning and maintenance to residents. Additionally, the substances poured down the drains collect in the City’s sanitary sewer lines, which can cause blockages and potentially overflow the sanitary sewer. Recycling at the Public Used Oil Center is free. Those with questions can contact the City of Plant City at (813) 659-4298 ext. 4902.

FREE

What’s happening this week?

SEE PAGE 13 •

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

Berry growers look toward the future — and weather. PAGE 7.

Find out what’s next for Midtown. PAGE 4.

Meet the new faces at Plant City Chamber. PAGE 12.

ON THE EDGE OF ‘17

Baby Parade registration set for Saturday, Jan. 7 The new year means one thing: the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival is right around the corner. With it comes the beloved 2017 Baby Parade, sponsored by South Florida Baptist Hospital. A mandatory registration for the event will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at the Badcock and More Media Center, 2107 W. Oak Ave. Spaces are limited to the first 50 children in each age group. Children between the ages of 1 and 2 can be registered from 9 to 10 a.m. Children between the ages of 3 and 4 can be registered from 10 to 11 a.m. Children must be between the required ages of 1 and 4 by Jan. 31, 2017. The competition is exclusively open to residents of East Hillsborough County. A proof of residency is required at registration. Entries must be made at the Badcock Media and More Center in person, and applicants must pay the $25 cash-only entry fee per category. Entries are accepted based on a firstcome, first-serve basis. Children between the ages of 1 and 3 may be registered in up to two categories. Four-yearolds may choose one category, as the four-year-old winners make up the Baby Parade King, Queen and Court. If there are any available spots left in the Baby Parade, a second registration will be held from 6 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017, at the Woman’s Club of Plant City, 1110 N. Wheeler St. Once registered, a mandatory information night will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the Expo Hall, 2301 W. Oak Ave. The 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival theme is ‘We’re Playing Your Song.’ Contestants in the Baby Parade are encouraged to use the theme in the costume or float contest.

WHAT’S UP IN THE WINTER STRAWBERRY CAPITAL? Read about the top stories to watch in 2017.

rom new hotels to a growing downtown, city leaders have made it clear that Plant City is open for business. Throughout town, businesses and community leaders have made it a goal to put Plant City as a destination

on the map year-round. Take a look to recap the growth the Winter Strawberry Captial of the World saw in 2016, and find out what’s next as 2017 progresses.

Historic Downtown Plant City is ready to shine in the spotlight. PAGE 5.

There will soon be a new place to stay on Thonotosassa Road. PAGE 11.

See what schools are doing to prepare area grads for the future. PAGE 3.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

“I’m looking forward to the change of the job. It’s more community-oriented. I’ve wanted to do it (law enforcement) since I was a kid. I knew that was w hat I wanted to do.”

WEEK OF JANUARY 6, 2017

— Plant City Police Officer Andrea Owen on taking over as the new downtown officer in January 2017. SEE PAGE 8.

Plea agreement says pallet company was million-dollar drug trafficking front DAN SULLIVAN TAMPA BAY TIMES

Teen in critical condition A 15-year-old teenager is in critical condition after being shot in the abdomen by a Plant City man, police say. The Plant City Police Department received a call at 11:42 p.m. Monday, Dec. 26, 2016, about a shooting in the 1700 block of Charles Avenue. Upon arrival, first responders discovered a 15-year-old Hispanic male with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. Plant City Fire Rescue treated the victim, who was then taken to an area hospital. After an on-scene investigation, authorities determined that the 15-year-old was shot by Ricardo Gonzales, 42, who was arrested Tuesday, Dec. 27. According to police, Gonzales assaulted the victim’s mother, 32-year-old April Masias, by verbally threatening her and placing a gun to her head. After Gonzales fired one round into the ground, the teen victim entered the room and confronted Gonzales for assaulting his mother. Gonzales struck the victim in the head with the gun and later fired one round into the teen’s abdomen. Gonzales is being held at the Orient Road Jail. He was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon without intent to kill, as well as aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated child abuse. The arrest is Gonzales’ twelfth, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. His arrests first date back to 2005, when he was arrested for driving under the influence. He was most recently arrested in early November 2016 for driving without a valid license.

There was nothing amid the stacks of wooden pallets to indicate criminal activity. But authorities say there was another product being sold at Velasquez Pallets, a business based on Turkey Creek Road in Plant City. In a federal plea agreement filed last week, a 20-year-old Plant City man admitted the business was a front for a Mexican cocaine distribution organization. Alexandro Velasquez acted as an accountant for the group, which was led by his uncle, 49-year-old Saul Velasquez-Bazan, according to court documents. When authorities arrested them and two other men in August, they estimated the drug business had brought in more than $2 million over a four-month period, the plea agreement states. Authorities believe the group supplied between 20 and 50 kilograms of cocaine a month to local distributors, selling kilos for $32,000 to $34,000 each. In May, agents watched as a semitrailer pulled into the pallet business. They saw Alexandro Velasquez hand two white plastic garbage bags to the driver, who then drove away. Law enforcement stopped the truck and found close to $400,000 in cash in the bags. The same month, Garcia recruited an undercover Homeland Security agent for a series of long-distance drives, according to the criminal complaint in his case. The agent was told he would be taking cash to the Mexican city of Matamoros, on the border with Texas. On the way back, he would pick up kilos of narcotics in Houston and drive them to Plant City, the complaint states. It all came to an end in August, when all four men were arrested. Both men remain in jail without bail.

hose looking to get in shape in the new year can do so with their friends by their side. The Plant City Recreation and Parks department has extended registration for the Plant City Adult Softball League through Tuesday, Jan. 10. Winter season leagues include a recreational Monday night co-ed team, a recreational Thursday night men’s team and a Tuesday night men’s doubleheader team. All leagues are responsible for providing a new ball for their team. Softballs must have a .52/275 or .52/300 core compression. Payments may be made by cash, check or money order. Checks may be made payable and sent to the City of Plant City’s Recreation and Parks Department, 1904 S. Park Road, Plant City, Florida 33563. LEAGUE COSTS MONDAY NIGHT CO-ED RECREATIONAL $310, 10-game season with four or more teams

THURSDAY NIGHT MEN’S RECREATIONAL $310, 10-game season with four or more teams TUESDAY NIGHT MEN’S DOUBLEHEADER $500, 18-game season with at least eight teams

ONLINE

Read more about the case online at

PlantCityObserver.com

Evangelical College & Seminary

“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” II Timothy 2:15

Classes Begin:

Evangelical College & Seminary (ECS) was established to provide biblical teaching and training of the highest quality to the Plant City community. The focus is on teaching “sound doctrine” (Titus 1:9), “teaching others to teach others” (2 Timothy 2:2), and teaching “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). The school is rooted in the biblically based principle that God’s plan for every believer is spiritual maturity. Christ clearly indicated in John 17:17 that such maturity (sanctification) is based on the work of God through the Word of God. It is not a result of man-made programs, “religious” entertainment, extravagant buildings, big budgets or body counts, but rather with the purpose of giving glory to God.

Monday, January 9 @ 6:30pm Located @ Liberty Baptist Church 2505 W. Granfield Ave. Plant City, FL 33563

813 365-1105

YOU ARE INVITED! January 9 - 12, 2017

During that week, all classes will be open to the general public with no charge or obligation. There is no need to preregister. Simply come to ECS at the date and time indicated on the course listing. Psalms 1 encourages believers to immerse themselves in God’s Word and experience the blessings of growth in their faith and spiritual stability in their day-to-day living. It is our purpose to help believers develop a deeper understanding of God’s Word and experience its transforming power in their lives. While we have students that are in degree or certificate programs, we have many that take classes to just have a better understanding of God’s Word.

During the week of January 9th, you are invited to sample the courses that will be offered this spring. Some Course Recommendations For New Students Christian Evidences, 2: Beginning Monday, January 9 at 6:30 pm ................. Professor Robert Westlake - Also referred to as “A Reasonable Faith.” Because of its popularity, this course has been taught every semester for the last several years. It focuses on the rational evidence for the Christian faith. While the evidence is overwhelming, tragically, most people, including Christians, have never been exposed to it. The course also includes an evaluation of the arguments typically used against Christianity and is structured such that parents and their high school-aged children can take the course together. Old Testament Survey: Beginning Tuesday, January 10 at 6:30 pm ................. Dr. Jack Weitzel - Share with Dr. Jack Weitzel an understanding of the origin of all things and the devastation caused by rebellion against God. Witness God’s faithfulness in the restoration of the nation of Israel and the preparations for the coming redemption of all things.

Spring 2017 Courses:

Graduate level courses are available. Contact Dr. Wallace Lont at wallacelont@msn.com

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Christian Evidences, 2: Beginning Monday, January 9 at 6:30 pm ....................................................... Professor Robert Westlake Life of Christ: Beginning Monday, January 9 at 6:30 pm..............................................................................................Dr. Gary Williams Introduction to Philosophy: Beginning Tuesday, January 10 at 6:30 am .......................................................... Dr. Thomas Pinner Old Testament Survey: Beginning Tuesday, January 10 at 6:30 pm...........................................................................Dr. Jack Weitzel General Letters: Beginning Thursday, January 12 at 9:00 am ........................................................................Professor Aaron Brown Old Testament Prophecy: Beginning Thursday, January 12 at 6:30 pm ........... Dr. Oscar Tichy & Professor Robert Westlake

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

ON THE EDGE OF ‘17

The New Workforce: What’s next for graduates in Plant City? By promoting programs that help students earn certifications and find careers with fruitful futures, area high schools seek to contribute to the growing workforce in 2017 and beyond.

Emily Topper

Area schools have created programs that give students on-the-job training and creditation upon graduation. At Plant City High School, those programs include vet assisting, childcare, cosmetology and more.

EMILY TOPPER MANAGING EDITOR

All three area high schools have continued to surpass the county and statewide graduation rates in 2016. In Plant City, administrators at Durant, Strawberry Crest and Plant City High schools agree that getting students to graduation day is only part of the equation — what students do after they cross the stage and get their diploma is also a top priority, from heading to college to joining the military or workforce. At schools in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, achieving those goals is accomplished by helping students turn their passions into a career path through programs that make graduates an asset wherever they choose to go. “It’s about all of them,” Plant City High School Principal Susan Sullivan said. “They’re all diverse, and they all have different skills. It’s about making connections between kids and the community and having them find not just a job, but a career.”

AT A GLANCE Students have a wide range of programs with certifications and on-the-job training available to them at area high schools. PLANT CITY n Cosmetology n Construction n Electrical n Vet Assisting n Childcare n Business Technology DURANT n Culinary n Early Childhood Education n Forestry n Technical Agriculture Operations n Horticulture Science and Services n Communications Technology n Agricultural Communications

PLANT CITY

With programs that range from cosmetology to construction, Plant City High School teachers and administrators are letting students know that career options are available to them while they earn a high school diploma. “I think part of it is just getting them beyond graduation,” Sullivan said. “They can leave here with certifications in the industry. Sometimes I think kids can’t see beyond prom and grad bash. Sometimes they think, ‘I’ll figure it out when I get there.’ If they don’t have a plan ... they might flail a little bit. We want to make them aware of what’s available to them. They can make a great living.” Sullivan said that about 40% of Plant City High School graduates head to a college or university after graduation, with many starting a twoyear college. The school saw 86.4% of its seniors graduate last year — many with additional industry certifications. “We want to help fill employment needs in our community,” Sullivan said. “Some of these jobs that are considered ‘blue collar’ have so much potential for earning money if people are willing to work hard.” The potential to earn more becomes an even bigger possibility for students who have industry training before they’ve even graduated high school. In addition to cosmetology and construction, Plant City High School also offers electrical, childcare, health science, business technology and veterinary assisting programs. “In our electrical program, kids can get certified in four years,” Sullivan said. “They’ll have some on-the-job

STRAWBERRY CREST n International Baccalaureate n Vet Assisting n Culinary n Firefighting n Business Technology

GRADUATION RATES

‘14 - ‘15 ‘15 - ‘16 Hillsborough County................................... 76..........................................79.1 Florida ........................................................77.9.......................................80.7 Plant City High School ..............................87.5.......................................86.4 Strawberry Crest ......................................93.3.......................................95.3 Durant ........................................................87.4....................................... 89.1 Source: Florida Department of Education

experience. In our vet assisting program, kids can work in a veterinarian’s office. They’re getting experience in the field and observing. It’s great for kids to figure out what they want now.” Some students have seen their hard work pay off before graduation day. Plant City High School hosted a Future Fair before graduation in 2016, where some students were offered jobs in the Plant City workforce, including at major employer Stingray Chevrolet. “Stingray Chevrolet hired four kids out of that,” Sullivan said. “Some were in the construction and manufacturing types of areas. We want to help kids with other plans besides college. We want to help them make connections in the job market with a future.”

As an added benefit, engaging kids in programs keeps them engaged in their other classes. The school’s 86.4% graduation rate is above the county’s rate of 79.1%. Sullivan hopes the school’s graduation rate will rise in 2017. “I have a very strong group of seniors this year,” she said. “It’s a very competitive group. We should see some great things out of (them), and we want them to come back and contribute to the community.” While Sullivan would like to see area students who graduate enter the workforce here in Plant City, she knows that kids need to feel like they have opportunities for their future available to them. “One of the reasons I was excited to come to Plant City High School was to

The partnership with area schools is vitally important to a strong workforce, and we continue to look for ways to bridge the gap with schools and employers. This month, we will take several hundred students to visit area businesses to learn about some of the job opportunities available here in Plant City.” —Jake Austin, president of the Plant City economic Development Corp.

help kids realize that it’s a great place to live,” Sullivan said. “I want kids to further their education, and I want them to feel like there’s something for them to come back to Plant City for.” At Strawberry Crest and Durant, educators share similar sentiments on preparing students for the future. STRAWBERRY CREST

Home to the area’s International Baccalaureate program, Principal David Brown said that Strawberry Crest High School is no stranger to the competitive college applicant. “But the competition is enormous now for them,” he said. “There’s more people applying.” But even at Strawberry Crest, Brown said, students know that college isn’t the only option. The school, which opened in 2009, saw a 95.3% graduation rate from its 2016 class. “First and foremost, we want them to get them all to graduate,” Brown said. “But then it’s: ‘What’s next?’ There’s a lot of different things they can do if they don’t go to college, but they still have to have that foundation of a high school diploma.” On the job experience doesn’t hurt, either. Like Plant City, Crest offers programs to students to help them prepare for the workforce, including culinary, vet assisting and firefighting programs. Just as colleges and the military bring in recruiters to talk to students, industry leaders are making visits to schools to get kids interested in the workforce. “It’s changing that mindset,” Brown said. “Kids don’t have to go to the University of Florida, they don’t have to go to Harvard and Yale. As our Baby Boomers retire, finding a workforce is hard. Growth is back in Hillsborough County, there’s no denying that.” DURANT

As Durant High School Principal Pam Bowden knows, students at Durant typically come from two main areas: subdivisions and rural families. For that reason, agriculture and related fields play into popular programs at

the school, including Durant’s agriscience program. “Our agriscience program teaches farming and horticulture,” she said. The program helps students prepare for careers in animal science, forestry, ag communications and related fields. “There’s a pretty big industrial and agricultural area around us.” Though Durant is the only school in the area to offer an agriscience program, it too offers programs found at Plant City and Durant, including culinary, childcare and business and computer technology. The school also has a criminal justice program that is taught by a former parole officer. Intellectually disabled students are able to learn job skills through community-based training at South Florida Baptist Hospital. “I think a lot of kids are looking to enter the workforce,” Bowden said. “Our culinary program teaches kids how to work in the food service industry. That falls in line with a lot of the tourism industry in Florida. In our childcare program, students can leave being fully certified to work in the industry. These are great skills for a kid to leave with. Largely, the kids that are successful come from teachers who have been successful.” In the future, Bowden would like to see more career-oriented programs at the school, as well as an increase in community partnerships. “We do have a community that looks after our school,” she said. “I think it’s our responsibility as a school to listen to what our community wants from us. What do employers need?” Durant had a graduation rate of 89.1% in 2016, up from 87.4% in 2015. “I think it’s a whole school effort to improve graduation rates,” Bowden said. “You have to get kids to buy in. They have to have a reason and a purpose for coming to school. That makes them employable for when they graduate, and that makes them competitive. It makes them a little better of an applicant, I think.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@ plantcityobserver.com.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

ON THE EDGE OF ‘17

Live, Work, Play: What’s next for Midtown? The City of Plant City plans to bring in a developer to begin Midtown’s redevelopment in 2017.

We’re interested in acquiring only the best and most qualified. We’re open for business, and we’re looking for a good opportunity.” — City Manager Mike Herr on the future development of Midtown

Justin Kline

Village Green Park was created to be the focal point of Midtown. The City is focused on the development of Midtown in 2017.

SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

In 2017, all eyes will be on Plant City’s long-awaited Midtown redevelopment project. The City of Plant City announced in December 2016 that its Community Redevelopment Agency issued a Request for Qualifications, or RFQ, for development. Sixty potential developers were invited to attend a Wednesday, Jan. 11, meeting. Later this year, one developer will be chosen to take on the 15-acre project. The City of Plant City has invested $4.5 million into preparations for redevelopment. “We’re interested in acquiring only the best and the most qualified,” City Manager Mike Herr said. “(We want) development companies that have had successful experiences with redevelopment projects.” GOAL-ORIENTED

According to Herr, procurement of services is a two-step process. The first step is to evaluate RFQ responses and identify suitable developers. The second step, which will

soon be underway, is to narrow the search down to 10 or fewer candidates for the job and recommend them to the CRA board. Herr said that the goal is to identify the best candidate and begin negotiations by June of this year, with construction to start shortly afterward. Negotiations are expected to take three to six months to complete. The chosen candidate will be the one that submits a proposal with what Herr called the best fit for Plant City: a blend of residential, commercial and retail assets with a family-friendly touch. “(We want) whoever gives us the best plan for the investment in capital, for the creation of jobs and to give us a value-added project that will be sustainable for our community,” Herr said. “And something we can have a great deal of community pride in.” Among the things Herr and the City of Plant City hope to make clear to developers is that the city is committed to making Midtown happen. HELPING HANDS

As part of its goal to attract the right company to Midtown, the City has

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worked to make the permit and development process easier for the future developer. “The City has acquired and prepared 15 acres for development,” Herr said. “We’ve already performed environmental remediation on the 15 acres. We’ve received a 20-year conceptual permit from Swiftmud. That’s going to save a prospective developer a lot of time on the front end of the permitting process.” Improvements have been made to benefit residents as well, including aesthetic enhancements in Midtown and improvements to area roads. Besides the addition of Village Green Park, which Herr said was created to be a ‘focal point’ for Midtown, developers may be attracted to the City’s improved streets. Wheeler Street was realigned to improve traffic flow and safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. The City also received a $165,000 grant to construct quiet zones along nearby railroads, and a $700,000 grant to enhance roads from Laura Street to Alabama Street. The nearby I-4 corridor is also a selling point, with quick access to major cities in surrounding areas. Herr said that the City’s Historic Downtown District — which welcomed multiple new businesses and regular events in 2016 — could play a large part in Midtown’s redevelopment. “I think that downtown and Midtown will go together,” Herr said. “I think that Midtown will be successful because we have a very charming and quaint downtown historic and business district. Our business people have invested wisely.” The City of Plant City will allow

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER Locally owned by Ed Verner, Karen Berry, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes The Plant City Times & Observer is published by Plant City Media LLC, a jointventure of the Tampa Bay Times and Plant City Observer LLC.

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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, 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103. 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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the private sector to conduct market research, though it has already done its own within a five-mile radius on the Midtown area. The City’s study, which covered 2016 and made estimates for 2021, estimated that the area’s current population of 65,384 should jump to around 72,916 within the next four years, creating a potential need for a residential area. Herr cited the variety of existing businesses downtown, from restaurants to stores, as an attractive prospect. He said that also helps bring in new businesses and entrepreneurs, such as the younger crowd involved with Rise Plant City and similar groups. Downtown, he said, could help draw such businesses and owners to Midtown.s “I think Midtown is just the place for young professionals to make an investment and be successful,” Herr said. Festivals and events held by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and other local groups play a part, too. When Midtown becomes a reality, it’s likely to be a popular spot to hold events, both ongoing and new. “I think all of that meshes very well together with Midtown,” Herr said. The RFQ pre-proposal meeting will begin at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, and will be held at City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. There, developers will get to see just how committed Herr and the City of Plant City are to getting the project started. “We mean business,” Herr said. “We’re open for business, and we’re looking for a good opportunity.”

Call Al Berry, Sarah Holt, Danny Crampton or Lisa Donini, at (813) 704-6850.

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Publisher / Karen Berry, kdberry@inthefieldmagazine.com Interim Managing Editor / Emily Topper, etopper@ PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editor / Sports Editor / Justin Kline, jkline@ PlantCityObserver.com Editorial Designer / C.J. Major, cmajor@yourobserver.com Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com Managing Editor of In the Field / Sarah Holt, sarah@ inthefieldmagazine.com

“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” — Friedrich Hayek, “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

ON THE EDGE OF ‘17

Headed Downtown: What’s in store for 2017? Food truck rallies and new businesses in Historic Downtown have brought an increase in foot traffic to the area — something City officials hope will continue as nearby areas grow in 2017 and beyond. EMILY TOPPER

THE NEW DIGS

MANAGING EDITOR

From the return of food truck rallies to new restaurants and businesses, Historic Downtown Plant City saw a surge of growth in 2016. For City Manager Mike Herr, the continued success of downtown in 2017 will be rooted in the leadership of Plant City Main Street, as well as the organization’s efforts to launch events that will continue to bring families into the heart of town in the new year. “I think that’s what’s going to be important for downtown,” Herr said. “It’s going to be important for the leaders of Plant City Main Street to develop a strong board of downtown leaders to be successful to work with the City, the chamber and existing businesses.” Since Plant City Main Street appointed its board of directors in January 2016, the organization has focused on attracting residents and visitors of Plant City into downtown. In September 2016, the organization partnered with the Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally to bring food trucks back to Plant City on a monthly basis. The organization has plans for continued food truck rallies in the new year, as well as a night of Motown and a Hispanic Heritage Festival. “It’s a good event,” Herr said. “We’re pleased with the number of people browsing downtown. The events coordinated by Plant City Main Street are off to a good start, and we give kudos to them for making this effort.” While visitors and residents are making trips to downtown a regular activity, some business owners have decided to make Historic Downtown a permanent home. And, in the future, the Plant City Economic Development Corp. hopes that more businesses will choose to do the same. Late last year, the organization

For 2017, my view of Plant City is that we’ll be bold. Bold, ambitious and hopeful.” — Mike Herr, city manager for the City of Plant City

ACE REALTY ADVISORS LLC 111 S. Palmer St.

Emily Topper

Historic Downtown underwent a growth spurt in 2016, something the City hopes will continue as midtown and the I-4 corridor continue to grow in the new year.

released ‘Plant City Reimagined: The Gateway Enterprise,’ a short flip book that shows the potential for existing structures throughout Plant City. Vacant lots and retail spaces are highlighted to show existing uses and future potential. Dotted along Baker and East Reynolds Streets, the Plant City EDC’s vision includes seeing an Urgent Care Center in Historic Downtown, and buildings zoned for light manufacturing transformed into restaurants and office spaces. Also featured in the book is the shuttered United States Post Office at 301 W. Reynolds St., directly behind City Hall. At 18,920 square feet, the

Plant City EDC marketed the building as an iconic landmark that would be an ideal location for a restaurant or retail concept. “I would love to see the post office site turned into a restaurant or pub,” Herr said. “I think we have a strong appeal to the entrepreneurial spirit. We’re hoping to find an attractive developer.” It’s a long-term plan, but the last year already saw a business growth spurt in the heart of town. OPEN FOR BUSINESS

After Cuzzins Bar closed in Historic Downtown in November 2015,

ACE Realty Advisors LLC purchased the building less than one year later for $185,000. With an additional $100,000 in renovation, the business plans to make the downtown storefront its home base. “I am so enthused about their excitement about being in Plant City,” Herr said. “They chose to come here because they see opportunity. When vibrant real estate people see opportunity ... that’s a good thing.” Herr attributes much of downtown’s appeal to the atmosphere of McCall Park and the unique attractions the area has to offer, including the Robert W. Willaford Railroad

Museum. Perhaps most appealing to business owners, though, is the City’s willingness to help entrepreneurs succeed in Plant City — a necessity in helping the long-term goals come to fruition. “The City is open for business,” Herr said. “We want to help you. We are demonstrating that Plant City is the place to be. We see the fruits of being open for business. We want to serve and push private sector projects to the pipeline.” Other local business owners have taken note. Both Dark Horse Music Store and Bella Mare Ristorante chose to move into spots in downtown in 2016. Bella Mare opened in November, and Dark Horse is set to open early in the new year. As 2017 kicks off, the City of Plant City hopes to see business owners continue to move into downtown as both midtown and the I-4 corridor see further growth — including breathing new life into existing structures. Herr is looking forward to a fruitful year for the City in 2017. “For 2017, my view of Plant City is that we’ll be bold,” he said. “Bold, ambitious and hopeful.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@ plantcityobserver.com.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

ON THE EDGE OF ‘17

Coast of Growth: Where will Suncoast expand A new facility serving Plant City and nearby residents will open in the Thonotosassa area in the spring of 2017. EMILY TOPPER MANAGING EDITOR

By April, Suncoast Community Health Centers Inc. CEO Bradley Herremans hopes to have a new facility open — one that will serve some Plant City residents. The new location will be Suncoast’s first location north of Interstate 4, located closer to the Tampa area. Located at 9555 E. Fowler Ave. in Thonotosassa, the new 2,106-squarefoot facility will serve residents who live along the I-4 corridor, including those from the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. “We serve residents from all of those communities,” Herremans said. “Most come from Plant City and Ruskin.” Once the new facility is established, patients will have access to different programs through Suncoast, including access to different services throughout the centers — access from physicians to getting prescriptions. The new facility’s employees will largely be made up of transfers. “There will be five to 10 employees once it’s fully up and going,” Herremans said. To make up for the transfers at existing facilities, Suncoast will hire about five new employees. “We’re seeing growth,” Herremans said. “We’re getting there slowly.” The 501-c3 nonprofit, which is partnered with South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City, has seen major growth. Serving Hillsborough County since 1977, the company has expanded locations from four to 12 and currently has over 400 employees. In addition to the brick and mortar locations, Suncoast also has mobile offices that travel around Hillsborough County. “Last year we had over 52,000 patients and 190,000 visits,” Herremans said. “Our mobile units have treatment rooms in an RV with dental chairs for mobile dental work.”

We’re seeing growth. Last year we had over 52,000 patients.” — Bradley Herremans, CEO of Suncoast Community Health Centers Inc.

Emily Topper

Bradley Herremans, CEO of Suncoast Community Health Centers Inc., hopes that the Thonotosassa facility will be open by April.

The company has also expanded to offer optometry at some facilities, including clinics in Ruskin and Brandon. The company’s Tom Lee Community Health Center, located on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Dover, also offers optometry. But residents don’t have to travel far for their primary medical needs. Plant City’s existing Suncoast facility, a family care medical clinic, is located at 508 N. Maryland Ave. The area’s Suncoast pediatrician is located at 502 N. Mobley St. But the new facility will serve area residents, as well — especially those who travel back and forth to Tampa

and surrounding areas for work. “We’ve already started the project,” Herremans said. “We will be developing the clinic between now and the first of April. If all goes well, we should be seeing (completion) toward the first of April. We will continue to serve Plant City residents.” The facility will be for family medicine and will have one or two providers, Herremans said. The first provider will see both adults and children. After 18 months, the company will look into expanding into a second provider, similar to the beginnings of the company’s nearby Wimauma facility.

“It’s a little mix of everything,” Herremans said. “It’s truly family medicine. Children can get immunizations and lab work. If it plays out like it did in Wimauma, like we’re hoping it will, we’ll ... expand into a second provider. In a new area, it’s easier to lease a space and then eventually, when it’s built up, purchase property.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@ plantcityobserver.com.

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PlantCityObserver.com

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Fancy Farms owner Carl Grooms is hoping this year’s strawberry season will be better than the last.

“One of the reasons we weathered the storm better than most is because we have our puree and freezer business,” Wishnatzki said. “We didn’t have to get down on our prices to the lowest common denominator. But a lot of growers had very, very low returns because they didn’t have outlets for their fruit.” Some growers, including Grooms, turned to Wish Farms for processing to help ease the financial pains. Even then, there were some bumps in the road: Grooms said processing regulations had changed, requiring berries to be of a certain sweetness level in order to be processed — one farmers can’t control. “There’s no way for us to put sugar out there on the strawberry fields to make the berries sweeter,” Grooms said. With this year’s season underway, growers are hoping — and planning — for the best. LEAVING IT TO CHANCE

No one can change the weather, but there are some ways to prepare for it. This year, Wish Farms growers planted later in October than usual. Now, Wishnatzki said, some growers have reported production increases of around 50% from last year. Temperatures haven’t been quite as high as they were at this point last year, but are close enough to keep growers on their guard. A strawberry grower for 43 seasons, Grooms knows that growers simply have to play whatever hands they’re dealt.

“As a grower, there’s really nothing you can prepare in the beginning to help you know what you’re going to have throughout the season,” he said. “It’s all a luck thing.” Although growers are trying to be optimistic, the market hasn’t always been kind this year. “We have picked a fair volume for what we call our ‘early market,’” Grooms said. “Unfortunately, a few weeks ago, we picked a whole lot of berries and the price went down.” Grooms and Wishnatzki said that the market has since recovered, but stated that the market isn’t always predictable, even with better production. “We’d like to see a better average price for the season with better production,” Wishnatzki said. “At this point, our production is quite a bit ahead of last year. Average prices may be a little bit less than last year, but production is better.” The growers are hoping for better weather and a stable market. Should those factors trend in their favor, their skills could help the local strawberry scene bounce back sooner than later. “We just do the best we can with the best knowledge that we’ve got among our farm and the rest of the farmers, and the knowledge we get from our university systems,” Grooms said. “We leave our market up to the people that sell our berries.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

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Because the winter months of 2015 and early 2016 were so hot, strawberry plants were unable to produce blossoms as they normally would. The heat instead caused the plants to produce green vegetation and stolons, or “runners,” and this drastically affected the amount of strawberries growers could pick early on. That scenario, according to Wishnatzki, isn’t a recipe for good news. “You always want to get good, early production when market prices are best,” he said. “Good December through February production is generally crucial to having a good year. It’s not just about producing numbers — it’s about producing them at the right time, when they’re at the highest demand.” Last season’s early output, or lack thereof, was enough to negatively manipulate the shipping market, decreasing prices further than anyone would have liked and affecting sales for one of the biggest fruit-filled holidays in the industry. “Last year was unusual in that we had such low production in January (and) into early February, when you typically would have Valentine’s Day promotions going on,” Wishnatzki said. Although things did pick up after Valentine’s Day, growers say that the market’s downturn was substantial. “It fell apart,” Grooms said. “The market dropped down to substandard prices. The volume came on so heavy that the shipping market collapsed and the price was cheap.” Growers with additional products in the industry were able to bounce back more quickly than others facing the same challenges.

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In agriculture, the weather can be a farmer’s best friend or worst enemy. The latter was true of 2016, when Plant City strawberry growers universally found themselves in a big pinch: blazing hot winter months coupled with an unusually wet January led to a rough season. The weather altered the berries’ shapes, sizes and flavors, which led to fluctuations in the market. Although things picked up around March, many growers were already feeling the effects of the damage to their berries. “There was definitely bloodletting last year, if you will,” Wish Farms CEO Gary Wishnatzki said. “We lost several growers that aren’t growing this year, and shippers are out of business as a result.” Wishnatzki and Plant City’s other area farms are hoping for business to pick up in 2017. “Agriculture’s based on variables,” Fancy Farms owner Carl Grooms said. “A lot of those variables are determined by nature. You never know exactly how a season will be until you go through it and calculate at the end of the season.”

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Andrea Owen always knew she wanted to be a cop. “I’ve always wanted to be one, since I was a kid,” Owen, a 20-year veteran with the Plant City Police Department, said. “I was a police explorer when I was 14.” Owen will take over as the primary officer in Historic Downtown Plant City and its surrounding neighborhoods this month. She’s been training for the job with Officer Priscilla Clark, who has had the gig for the last two years. “They like to rotate the position every few years,” Owen said. “I’ve been on patrol for awhile and wanted to see how it goes.” Though working in law enforcement has always been her dream, Owen didn’t pursue her passion right away. As a high school student, Owen participated in on-the-job training by working as a receptionist at a nursing home. When she graduated, she went into the banking industry as a teller, still involved as a police explorer. Owen was still working as a teller one year later in December. As she stood behind the counter, Christmas light earrings in her ear, two people entered the bank. They were armed. There was no glass wall separating the tellers from the robbers. A third suspect was waiting outside in a getaway car. “They jumped the counter,” Owen said. “One guy had a semi-automatic weapon. That’s what was frustrating. I knew what it was from shooting, from being a police explorer.” Even so, she didn’t have the power to do anything — except watch. As she handed over money, she kept her eyes down, observing without making the robbers aware of her intentions. “I was young when that happened,” Owen said. “I was worried I was going to get shot, initially. It was just stressful.” After the incident, Owen decided it was finally time to pursue her dream of becoming a police officer. Still, there were other challenges. Scholarships for the police academy were no longer offered through the Tampa Police Department, and Owen didn’t have the funds to put herself through the academy on her own. Luckily, her family was able to help. Owen’s parents loaned her the money, which she paid back once she got hired on the force. She’s been at the Plant City Police

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the number of utility pick-up trucks purchased for evidence and custodial uses

Department ever since. “I’m not really a college kind of person,” she said. “It took about five months to get hired. You have to go through a psychiatrist, physicals and a background check. They also talk to your neighbors.” For much of her time with the department, Owen has been a citywide officer. When a fellow officer is out sick, she fills in to cover the area. Now, she’s looking forward to serving the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World in a different capacity. “We’re just going to see how things go,” she said. “I’m looking forward to the change of the job. It’s more community-oriented. I’m pretty easy going and laid back, but I’m straightforward.” She’s looking forward to helping residents and business owners, as well. “I’ll let the merchants know I’m downtown,” she said. “I’ll ask them if they have any needs, any problems. I want to know the needs of the residents in the area.” Owen will officially take over the downtown beat, which includes the city’s government housing and outreach center, on Saturday, Jan. 7. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@ plantcityobserver.com.

ON THE FORCE The Plant City Police Department has outlined its goals for the new year, which includes focusing on the safety of schools, encouraging residents to safeguard their items and improving traffic safety.

GOALS 1. FOCUS MORE ON DOMESTIC TERRORISM “Something we started to address during the Florida Strawberry Festival last year was how we can make ourselves a harder target,” Sgt. Al Van Duyne said. “One thing that sticks out is the large number of schools we have here. We definitely want to take a good look at what we can do for the safety of schools and our commercial partners in the City.” 2. RENEW FOCUS WITH COMMUNITY POLICING “As crime continues, one of the big things we depend on is good communication between the police department and its citizens,” Van Duyne said. 3. ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS TO SAFEGUARD VALUABLES Van Duyne said that while Plant City still is a small town with a cozy feel, there are big cities around the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, and that Plant City is not exempt from crime. For that reason, residents should protect their belongings. “We want people to take the minimum precautions,” he said. “Lock their cars, their houses.” 4. TRAFFIC SAFETY Though Plant City’s population is in the 30,000-range, Van Duyne said that the City frequently sees traffic from those who travel through town on their way to Tampa or Lakeland. “We have much more traffic that comes through because of the highway and thoroughfare,” he said. “About 80% of our crashes are careless driving, like running into the back of a stopped vehicle.” To improve traffic safety, the department plans to focus on educating drivers in the hopes that they will be inclined to change their behavior. Traffic officers also will regularly do more enforcement of DUIs on a quarterly basis. “We hope we can effectively get the message out through warnings,” Van Duyne said.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

ON THE EDGE OF ‘17

Welcome Home: New First Baptist campus aims for late 2017 completion The new campus of First Baptist Church of Plant City is expected to be completed in December 2017 or January 2018, with a grand opening contingent on completion. TIMELINE

EMILY TOPPER MANAGING EDITOR

HOUSING FAITH

With a total of 60,000 square feet at the church’s new campus, the facility on James L. Redman Parkway will have 14,000 square feet on each floor of the building, including the children’s ministry, as well as 32,000 square feet allotted for the church’s new sanctuary and a commons area to be used for socializing and fellowship. “The commons area is a big atrium with sofas,” Stowe said. “It’s just a place for people to sit down and talk with one another.” The church’s sanctuary will sit between 1,500 to 1,800. Unlike the current sanctuary which has balcony seating, the new sanctuary ,will have stadium seating toward the back. Since breaking ground in April, the church has faced some delays with the new campus. “Basically we had to get in line and

Of late, there’s been a lot more conversation and some anticipation. That excitement is beginning to pick up.”

EARLY 2000S First Baptist Church of Plant City acquired 57 acres of land at 33309 James L. Redman Parkway.

— Pastor Brian Stowe, senior pastor at First Baptist Church of Plant City

SEPTEMBER 2015 First Baptist Church of Plant City submitted plans to the City of Plant City for a new campus on James L. Redman Parkway.

Emily Topper

The First Baptist Church of Plant City campus will have a sanctuary that sits between 1,500 to 1,800 people. Construction is expected to be completed in late December 2017, or January 2018.

WHAT ABOUT PALMER STREET? For now, the church will hold on to the property at 503 N. Palmer St. “As long as we have this facility, we’re going to use it,” Senior Pastor Brian Stowe said. “It’s not on the market right now.”

wait,” Stowe said. “It’s kind of like a complex equation.” The church had to wait for the larger concrete walls that make up part of the exterior of the building to be delivered, which took longer than expected due to the increase in construction in Florida. With the main walls up, work on the church’s roof began in December 2016. “The dry weather has been a help,” Stowe said. “The main walls went up before Thanksgiving. They were brought in by truck and moved into place by a crane. It’s like a big puzzle, how they pieced it together. Once the roof is done, the work will then take place inside.” Floor work will be done after the roof and walls are fully completed, as

there was concern that the floor could crack if done first. The finishing touches for the parking lot are also being completed. While the church’s current facility on Palmer Street uses multiple parking lots and street parking, the new facility will have a large, semi-circle parking lot. “People won’t have to cross the street to get to church again,” Stowe said. Landscaping improvements also have been made to the area. The church will hire a landscape contractor to plant 250 trees and 3,000 bushes around the area. Two entrances will lead into the parking lot, and officers from the Plant City Police Department will direct traffic on Sundays. Construction was also partially delayed by the need to obtain permits. “We had to get permits from the City of Plant City, the county and the state,” Stowe said. “The City was the most cooperative. The City was for us. They want to see the project go (forward) and they’ve been very helpful through it.” The church had to obtain a building permit from the City, as well as a water permit since the property at 3309 James L. Redman Parkway will use City water.

The first phase of construction, which includes the parking lot, surrounding shrubbery, children’s ministry and sanctuary, cost about $17 million, Stowe said. The second phase will include the construction of an educational building that will be built in addition to the main worship center. Cost and the timeline of the educational facility, Stowe said, will be dependent on funds. “The master plan has multiple phases,” he said. “We’re going to play it by ear and determine the needs of the church as it progresses. We’ll look at the greater need as it comes along.” 2017, he said, will be another big year of changes for the church. “We’ve made some pretty big changes over the last year,” he said, mentioning the church’s new modern services. “We’re going to make sure we have those things in place, and focus on one major change at a time.” The date of the grand opening of the church’s new facility will be contingent on completion.

APRIL 2016 Groundbreaking held for new campus.

OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER 2016 The church’s main walls on the new campus went up before Thanksgiving. DECEMBER 2016 Work began on the roof of the church’s new campus.

Contact Emily Topper at etopper@ plantcityobserver.com.

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Last April, about 800 members of First Baptist Church of Plant City gathered for the groundbreaking of the church’s new campus. With every shovel full of ceremonial dirt, Senior Pastor Brian Stowe and members of the church’s Promise Land Committee celebrated an event 12 years in the making. The new church, located at 3309 James L. Redman Parkway in Plant City, is scheduled to be completed by December 2017. The church anticipates that it will be move-in ready by January 2018. “The walls have started to go up,” Stowe said. “I get a video of the construction about once a week or every two weeks. We originally thought it would take 15 months, but it will likely be closer to 20 months.” The church has outgrown its current home at 503 N. Palmer St. With close to 4,500 registered members — including a couple hundred new members that joined in 2016 — the church sees an average of 1,500 people on campus for Sunday morning services and related activities. “There’s a difference between membership and attendance,” Stowe said. “But we’ve gone over that 1,500 number of late.” Stowe said the church’s youngest group — those 18 and under — currently make up between 400 to 500 members, and is rapidly expanding. “We’ve had an uptick on the younger families as of late, since adding modern services,” he said. With a growing congregation in a growing town, Stowe and his fellow leaders at First Baptist Plant City have aimed to create a new facility that will accommodate members while fitting in with the surrounding community. The church hired Myrick Gurosky & Associates, a design-build firm based out of Alabama, for the project. “Of late there’s been a lot more conversation and some anticipation,” Stowe said. “That excitement is beginning to pick up.”

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PlantCityObserver.com

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2017

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Largely thanks to the Florida Strawberry Festival, Plant City is a nationally-known tourist destination. But one local group is working to show that Plant City has more to offer than just strawberries. Visit Plant City, formerly the Tourism Task Force, wants to brand Plant City. The group, which has been developing its identity and plan for over a year, is ready to go full steam ahead in 2017. Visit Plant City got its start as the Tourism Task Force, an extension of the Plant City Main Street program that formed to help rejuvenate the Historic Downtown district. With members from the City of Plant City, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the Plant City Economic Development Corp., among other groups, the task force held its first meeting in December 2015. Its goal was to find a way to bring tourists into town and stimulate the local economy. Led by Yvonne Fry, the 2017 chairperson for the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, the group spent 2016 identifying Plant City’s current strengths and potential future assets, and ideas came together over time. By the end of 2016, Fry and the other members felt confident that their work could pay off. The group changed its name to Visit Plant City, falling more in line with tourism organizations such as Visit Florida and Visit Tampa Bay — two groups that have been eager to lend a helping hand. “We want to grow those relationships and be strong partners,” Fry said. Visit Plant City’s goals are more clear now than they were a year ago, partly because the group has identified a clearer target demographic than it had in 2016.

THERE AND BACK AGAIN

According to Fry, Visit Plant City is going to start by marketing to what she calls “current visitors.” These visitors are the people who live outside of Plant City, but travel here more often than most. Whether they regularly attend the Florida Strawberry Festival, watch and play sports in organized tournaments or visit for a day of antiquing around town, they’re already familiar with Plant City to some degree. These are the people that Visit Plant City wants to reach first because, even though they have reasons to keep coming back, there may be incentives for them to stay longer and spend more money in town. “We said, ‘There’s so many people coming here already, that’s where we need to focus our attention,” Fry said.

File Photo

The Florida Strawberry Festival attracts thousands of visitors to Plant City every year. Visit Plant City wants to see tourists year-round.

To keep people informed of what’s going on around town, Visit Plant City hopes to create tourism packages. Packages would include information about local hot spots and attractions, and would possibly include discounts and other promotions from local businesses. Fry and the group want to build long-term relationships between such tourists and Plant City. Plant City’s Tourist Information Center, which is moving into the Chamber of Commerce in April 2017, is in the process of being designated a Visit Florida information center. Visit Tampa Bay, a branch of Visit Florida, has had members at all of Visit Plant City’s committee meetings and even conducted surveys at Pig Jam and Christmas Lane. “We want to be able to measure things and see what kind of impact we’re having,” Fry said. In 2017, Visit Plant City also hopes to implement a strong digital presence. The group already has a Facebook page, but Fry said that a website will be created and that a smartphone application, while not a guarantee, is something the group would like to pursue if possible. “We’re working through and making sure that we don’t do anything that’s not sustainable,” Fry said. Ideally, the group would like to release an app that uses a phone’s location services to give consumers information pushes corresponding to their location. For example, someone near East Reynolds Street may be notified about the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, while someone near Thonotosassa Road may get information about Parkesdale Farm Market. Besides the Florida Strawberry Festival, Plant City’s local sports scene is one of the city’s biggest tourism

draws and something Visit Plant City already has its eye on. The city’s parks were used for tournament play and other events in 40 of the 52 weeks of 2016, and several of the events were big draws. “The two largest events we host – UYFL National Championships and USFTL National Championships bring in 120 and 400-plus teams, respectively” Plant City Recreation and Parks Director Jack Holland said. “Both draw 15,000-plus participants and spectators at each event. The UYFL tournament is the largest youth amateur event in Hillsborough County, per the Tampa Bay Sports Commission.” While the nationally-promoted events have visitors pumping more money into local hotels, restaurants and other businesses, even the smaller events have the potential to draw tourism. “Our independent sports programs have visiting teams playing against them who should be made aware of what Plant City offers,” Holland said. “Even at the lowest level, our recreation sports programs are roughly 50% county residents and 50% city residents, so their spectators coming into town for lunch or shopping make an impact, as well.” Once Visit Plant City can successfully market to more regular visitors, it will focus more on bringing in tourists with little to no knowledge of Plant City. The group is confident that its 2017 efforts can help Plant City grow and flourish. “We’ve got so many resources to pull from in our community,” Fry said. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

ON THE EDGE OF ‘17

Hello, Hampton: What’s on the horizon for Plant City’s newest lodging? Plant City’s Hampton Inn is expected to be open between March and April of this year. JUSTIN KLINE

BY THE NUMBERS

SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Hampton has very loyal customers, so we expect to see them in our hotel. Our team is in there getting everything ready.”

Drivers traveling along Interstate 4 will soon have a new place to rest and relax off of Exit 19. Construction of the Hampton Inn and Suites at 2702 Thonotosassa Road is expected to wrap up around March. According to developers, it will be open for business between March and April of this year. “All the construction will finish about 30 days prior,” Manager Andrew Bou-Silman said. “In the last 30 days, our team is in there getting everything guest-ready.” David and Edie Henderson, of the Lakeland-based Henderson Properties, own the hotel. Naples Hotel Group, where Bou-Sliman serves as vice president of acquisitions and development, will manage the hotel’s day-to-day operations and has overseen its development. The hotel is the third piece of Plant City property developed by the Hendersons, who also built the nearby Starbucks and Wawa Inc. stores on Thonotosassa Road. The latter opened just over two years ago in December 2014. Starbucks was a decade before that. Since then, business in the area has seen a surge. “I did Starbucks 10 years ago,” David Henderson said. “So, I’m very familiar with that intersection and how well that Starbucks has performed over the years.” The $7 million Hampton Inn job began in 2015 and covers 49,900 square feet on 1.66 acres of land. The hotel will have 89 guest rooms, including 87 standard rooms and two suites, as well as a 500 square-foot meeting room, an outdoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center for guests and an in-house, coin-operated laundry facility. All guests are also welcome to free Wi-Fi and complimentary breakfast. The new lodging facility is expected to create about 24 permanent jobs and will feature an 89-space parking lot. One entrance and exit will lead to the hotel. Henderson chose the location due to

2,000

— Andrew Bou-Silman, manager of the Plant City Hampton Inn

number of Hampton locations around the world

number of countries with Hampton Inns

number of parking spots at new Hampton Inn

$7 million total cost of construction

49,000

Plant City Hampton Inn and Suites’ total square footage

number of rooms at Plant City Hampton Inn and Suites

Justin Kline

The Plant City Hampton Inn will likely be open by April 2017.

the performance of the nearby Starbucks and Wawa stores, and because a hotel was the one thing that the intersection — which is close to several nationally-known chain restaurants, including Outback Steakhouse and Carrabba’s Italian Grill — seemed to need. “There were no hotels at that exit,” David Henderson said. “That’s where everybody wants to get off, because that’s where all the national restaurants are.” Though Henderson Properties is based out of Lakeland, the couple is involved in Plant City’s business

scene. David Henderson has gotten involved with Visit Plant City, formerly the Tourism Task Force, which is focused on driving tourism into town. David Henderson is hopeful that tourists will gravitate toward the new hotel once its completed. “I think that the current administration is pro-growth of the right sort,” David Henderson said. “They’re trying to attract the right kind of businesses, and I’d like to participate in that.” Bou-Sliman and Naples Hotel Group also manage Hampton locations in the Orlando area, and have

1.66

built locations in Naples and Estero. “Hampton has very loyal customers, so we expect to see them in our hotel,” Bou-Sliman said. But this location will have an added bit of Plant City charm. Two photos will hang in the hotel’s lobby, courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center. The first will be of a marching band in Historic Downtown, and the second will be of the Robert W. Willaford train depot.

total acreage

number of permanent jobs expected to be created for hotel

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

New Courses in Leadership and Biblical Studies Most courses are taught over eight weeks for 1½ hrs. each session A New Year of True Leadership and Personal Growth Institute

DAN MORRIS, DAN MIDDLEBROOKS, RON CHURCHILL AND THE BLI LEADERSHIP TEAM OFFERS 2017 NEW LEADERSHIP COURSES Inc. Magazine voted John Maxwell as the #1 leadership and management expert in the world! His book and his personal video teaching series “Leadership Goal” is on our weekly courses taught this winter semester. He is the #1 Leadership Guru in the world, partner with top people, and shave years of developing yourself and your business by associating with the power of the Maxwell brand to open doors for

you. Take advantage of 40+ years of proven leadership curriculum right from John himself through our Biblical Leadership Institute video teaching series. BLI welcomes the Maxwell video teaching series, “Leadership Gold.” BLI friends will guide you to the true leadership life and practices. Be equipped with the very best leadership skills, tools and resources to make you more successful in life and in business.

2017 Winter Semester Schedule

Dan Morris, Sr.

Dan Middlebrooks

John C. Maxwell

CLASS

PROFESSOR/INSTRUCTOR

CLASS BEGINS

LOCATION

How to Interpret The Bible (NOBTS, Leavell College Course)

Maxie Miller, Jr.

Monday, January 9, 2017 6:00-7:30 PM

BLI Campus 105 E. Baker St., Plant City 33563

Old Testament Survey (NOBTS, Leavell College Course)

Maxie Miller, Jr.

Monday, January 9, 2017 7:30-9:00 PM

BLI Campus 105 E. Baker St., Plant City 33563

Chaplaincy 101

Dan Middlebrooks

Tuesday, January 10, 2017 6:30-8:00 PM

Hopewell Church (North Portable) 6001 S. County Rd. 39, Plant City 33567

Becoming a Leader of Godly Influence

Jay Brinson

Wednesday, January 11, 2017 6:30-7:30 PM

Hopewell Church (North Portable) 6001 S. County Rd. 39, Plant City 33567

Conversational English

Cindy Kitchens

Monday, January 9, 2017 6:30-7:45 PM

BLI Campus 105 E. Baker St., Plant City 33563

Conversational Spanish

TBA

Thursday, January 12, 2017 6:00-8:00 PM or TBA

BLI Campus 105 E. Baker St., Plant City 33563

Bible Prophecy

Dick Moore, Parkway Pastor

Tuesday, January 10, 2017 6:00-7:30 PM

Parkway Baptist Church 4305 S. James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City 33567

“Come Learn Something More From The Bible for Life and Work” Lifeway Small Group and SS Bible Study Survey Sharping Teaching Skills and Advance SS Lessons

Dan Morris, Sr./Lynn Houser and Friends Resources from Josh Hunt, SS University and Bruce Wilkerson’s “Laws of the Learner” Video Series

Wednesday, January 11, 2017 11:45 AM-12:15 PM TBA and Online/Video

BLI Campus, 105 Baker Street or Community Church, 103 Johnson Rd or Parkway Church, 4305 S. James L. Redman Pkwy. (Location TBA)

Social Media Communication Support & Coaching

Travis & Whitney Falkenberg

TBA

BLI Campus 105 E. Baker St., Plant City 33563

Personal Growth & Success for Life, Family and Work Leadership Gold, Video and Online Teaching Series (1 of the Leadership BLI Gold Certificate Courses)

Dan Morris, Sr. with John Maxwell Video Teaching Series Instructors will include BLI Friends: Ron Churchill, Brian Stowe, Steve Morris, Jay Brinson, Dan Middlebrooks and others

Monday, January 16, 2017 11:30 AM or/and Monday 5:30 PM on Campus and Online

BLI Campus 105 E. Baker St., Plant City 33563

Comprehensive Pastor & Laity Courses for the Complete BLI Studies & Service Certificate (1 of the Selected Courses of the BLI Biblical Ministry Certificate Program)

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

ON THE EDGE OF ‘17

Friendly Faces: Who’s new at the Chamber? Ashton Houston and Breanna Wilson, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s newest employees, are helping Plant City businesses succeed. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

As Plant City attempts to bring in more young entrepreneurs, its business scene is also getting younger behind the scenes. Ashton Houston and Breanna Wilson, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s newest employees, are bringing millennial perspectives to the job. Fresh out of college, both Strawberry Crest High School alumnae started at the chamber in late 2016 and have been hard at work ever since. ASHTON HOUSTON

Houston, born and raised in Plant City, is no stranger to community involvement. While at Strawberry Crest, she was a member of FFA, the Beta Club and the National Honor Society. At the University of South Florida, where she majored in marketing, Houston was a member of the Kappa Delta sorority. In college, though, she didn’t immediately see herself returning to Plant City. She considered moving to New York City or Los Angeles to work in advertising, but later changed her mind. “I decided to stay here, stay local (and) gain experience,” Houston said. “I enjoy being around my family, and the small atmosphere of Plant City is nice.” Houston’s job at the chamber ended up being her first out of college. She was the first of the two new employees to start, coming aboard in September 2016. She keeps busy as the chamber’s office coordinator, heading Plant City Leadership, and as a board member of Rise Plant City, a group dedicated to bringing young professionals into town and keeping them around longterm. “I was really excited about the opportunity ... I’ve loved being here ever since,” Houston said. Houston was also put in charge of

Seeing all the different stakeholders work together to build that sense of community is really neat.” — Breanna Wilson

I was really excited about the opportunity ... I’ve loved being here ever since.” — Ashton Houston

Justin Kline

Breanna WIlson and Ashton Houston bring fresh perspectives to the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce.

the chamber’s ambassador program. That program, which predates her time at the chamber, gets current members linked up with newer ones in order to help them get acclimated with and feel welcome in Plant City. At the moment, she oversees 30 ambassadors. “I look at the ambassadors and see what their backgrounds are, and see if they’re going to be a good fit for a business,” Houston said. “Say someone owns a construction business and is an ambassador, and a new person that does roofing joins the chamber — I’ll pair them up together because

they already have something in common ... so it would be easier for them to click.” BREANNA WILSON

Wilson, who also attended Strawberry Crest, was a member of the National Honor Society and the school’s International Baccalaureate program’s first-ever graduating class. While at Florida Southern College, Wilson majored in business administration with concentrations in marketing and communications, and minored in religion. She also worked part-time at Ag

America Lending, an agriculturefocused lending firm similar to Farm Credit, but privately owned. Her husband, Michael, who owns Dark Horse Music Store, was the one who first floated the idea of joining the chamber’s staff. “We were talking one night,” Wilson said. “He said, ‘You should apply at the Chamber,’ just off-hand one day.” A few months later, Wilson said, there was an opening for a communications coordinator. She applied, interviewed and got the job, which she started in October 2016. In her

current role, Wilson manages all social media accounts and creates the monthy Chamber Conenctions newsletter. “I think the coolest side of it is being behind the scenes,” Wilson said. “I’ve attended Pig Jam before, but I’ve never ran Pig Jam before. Seeing all the different stakeholders work together to build that sense of community is really neat.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

COMING SOON! T Marie’s Valrico Sunday Market

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

SATURDAY, JAN. 7

2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL BABY PARADE REGISTRATION 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at the Badcock Home Furniture and More Media Center, 2107 W. Oak Ave. The contest is open to boys and girls between the ages of 1 and 4. Proof of residency required at registration. There is a $25 cash-only entry fee per category. Email Chairperson Maribel Sandoval at maribels89@ yahoo.com.

MONDAY, JAN. 9

CITY COMMISSION MEETING 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9, at City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. PLANT CITY GARDEN CLUB MEETING Begins at 10:15 Monday, Jan. 9, at 1304 Teakwood Drive. Coffee is served at 10:15, followed by a meeting at 10:30. The speaker will be Rob Northrup with the Hillsborough County Exterior Services, who will speak on tree management. Knife and tool sharpening will be available for a small fee. Call (813) 752-5874.

TUESDAY, JAN. 10

CONVERSATION CORNER Begins at 7 p.m. Tuesdays in January at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Learning English? The Conversation Corner at Bruton Memorial Library is a place to practice English skills with students of the English language. The class is held in conjunction with the Hillsborough Literacy Council.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 11

rial Library, 302 McLendon St. A walk-and-talk begins at the library and walks around the tree-shaded neighborhood for 45 minutes. Library water fountains and restrooms are available for the walking club to use. Members must be 18 years or older.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

BEST BET 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL JUNIOR ROYALTY PAGEANT Begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at the Grimes Family Agricultural Center on the Florida Strawberry Festival fairgrounds, 2508 W. Oak Ave. Tickets will be sold at the door for $10. Four girls will be chosen as the court’s 2017 queen, princess, duchess and baroness.

SATURDAY, JAN. 14

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER DAY AT THE COMMUNITY GARDEN Begins at 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Plant City Commons Community Garden, 2001 E. Cherry St. Help trim, clip, plant and organize.

SUNDAY, JAN. 15

THE CLASSROOM GALLERY 1 to 5 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins St. Art is on display by members of the East Hillsborough Art Guild.

T. MARIE’S VALRICO SUNDAY MARKET 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Road, Valrico. Interested artists and vendors can call (813) 530-0922.

THURSDAY, JAN. 19

KEEL AND CURLEY LIVE MUSIC 6:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 752-9100.

KINDERGARTEN ROUND-UP AND CONFERENCE NIGHT 8:30 to 10 a.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, at Robinson Elementary School, 4801 Turkey Creek Road. For more information, call Robinson Elementary at (813) 757-9424.

KRAZY KUP LIVE MUSIC 8:33 to 10:33 p.m. Saturdays, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220.

ONGOING PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS CLUB #4051 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. Thursdays at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 S. Evers St., Plant City. New members welcome.

ACOUSTIC HAPPY HOUR 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

WALKING CLUB Begins at 7:30 a.m. Wednesdays in January at Bruton Memo-

BINGO 6:30 p.m. Saturdays, at American Legion Post 26, 2207 W. Baker St. There is a full kitchen. CHRISTIAN MUSIC 6:33 to 8:33 p.m. Thursdays, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220.

O’BRIEN’S LIVE MUSIC 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. OPEN MIC NIGHT 8 p.m. Wednesdays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 7648818.

PLANT CITY FAMILY YMCA 1507 YMCA Place 813 757 6677 tampaymca.org

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

GENE BRADY Gene Brady, 75, of Plant City, died Dec. 22, 2016. He was employed in the retail furniture business for 36 years, but was most proud of his work as an Auxiliary Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputy from 1972 to 1982. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Jean; children, Steve, David, Jeff and Sue; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; three brothers; and two sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; and one sister. A celebration of life was held Dec. 26, 2016, at Hopewell Funeral Home in Plant City. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

DORIS ANN MCKINNEY CLEVELAND Doris Ann McKinney Cleveland, 75, died Dec. 13, 2016, in Trinity. She was born in Norristown, Pennsylvania. She and her husband, James “Jimmy” Cleveland, owned and operated Cleveland’s Diesel and Yacht Service until their retirement in 2003. She was a loving great-grandmother, grandmother, mother and friend. She is survived by her children, Tim, Wally, Wendy, Roger and James; their spouses; seven grandchildren; and two greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, “Sonny” Evans; husband, James “Jimmy” Cleveland; son, Brian Evans; and her parents. A celebration of life will be held at 12 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22, at the Cleveland family home, 13204 Oak St., Odessa, Florida 33556. In lieu of flowers, donations may

Kathleen Collins, 82, of Dover, died Dec. 29, 2016. She was born in Clarksburg, West Virginia, on July 6, 1934. She is survived by her children, Steven Whitmer (Dorothy), of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania and Brenda Benefield (David) of Dover; sister, Linda Bender, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Owen Whitmer and Robert Collins; and son, David Whitmer. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

She is survived by her sister, Bettye Bryant, of Plant City; son, Ashley Ellis Jr. (Karen), of Lake City; daughters, Deborah Stephenson (Jim), of Plant City, Donna Ellis, of Colorado Springs and Jennifer Staten (Bruce), of Lake City; grandchildren, Bubba Ellis, Chris Ellis, John Ellis, Tiffany Waters and Madison and Megan Staten; and numerous great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Alan Ellis Sr.; and sister, Beverly Anne Murray. A funeral service was held Dec. 29, 2016, at Southside Baptist Church. Dr. Ralph Rodriguez officiated. Interment followed at Fellowship Baptist Church Cemetery in Wellborn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Haven Hospice Suwannee Valley Care Center, 6037 W. U.S. Highway 90, Lake City, Florida 32055. Online condolences may be made at GatewayForestLawn.com.

VIRGINIA “JENNY” LUE WADE ELLIS

DR. NELSON HOWARD “DUKE” KOHL

be made for an “eternal reef” as the final resting place for her and her late husband, Jimmy, at YouCaring.com/DorisCleveland. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

KATHLEEN COLLINS

Virginia “Jenny” Lue Wade Ellis, 82, died Dec. 25, 2016. She was born in Plant City to the late Anna Edna and R.B. Wade. She moved to Lake City in the early 1960s, where she raised her family and worked alongside her husband, Alan Ellis, on their farm and, later, their pecan orchard. She was a devoted wife and mother of four children. She was a wonderful seamstress and loved sewing clothes and costumes for her granddaughters. They were never without a new Easter dress. She also loved to play the piano and organ, something she learned at an early age and a talent she inherited from her mother. She was a strong Christian and an active member of Southside Baptist Church. She will be dearly missed.

Florist 116 North Collins Street Plant City, FL 33563 ph: (813) 567-5735 allabloomtampa.com

Historic Downtown

Dr. Nelson Howard “Duke” Kohl, D.O., died peacefully Dec. 14, 2016, at Gulfside Hospice House in Zephyrhills after a brief illness. The love of his life, Patricia Jolles and his cat, Lucy, were at his bedside. He was born March 24, 1936, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Herbert and Ida Kohl. He graduated from Olney High School in 1954, and then attended the Temple University School of Pharmacy, graduating in 1959. From there, he attended the Philadelphia school of Osteopathic Medicine and graduated in 1963. He had a private practice in family medicine in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, from 1964 to 1994 and was the director of emergency medicine at TriCounty Hospital in Springfield for many years. He moved to Plant City in 1995, where he worked for Tampa General Hospital and opened a satellite clinic at Strawberry Plaza. When the clinic was sold to Health Point, he continued to work there until he retired at the age of 69. He was an old-fashioned kind of doctor. He cared for his patients with compassion, integrity and a true sense of caring for each and every one of them. While in private

practice, he cared for three generations of many of his patients. He was well-respected and admired in the medical community as being a physician of knowledge, skill and ethics. His genuine heart and caring nature carried through to his love for his daughters, Robyn and Sherri, as well as the love of his life, Patricia and his ‘fur kid,’ Lucy. He is survived by the love of his life, Patricia Jolles; fur kid, Lucy Rose; daughters, Robyn Van Dusen (Eric) and Sherri Owles (Chris); granddaughters, Storey and Charlotte Owles; brothers, Bill Kohl (Hilda) and Ronnie Somers (Bobby); sister-in-law, Jean Kohl; ex-wife, Marlene Kohl; several nieces and nephews; and fur grandkids, Max Van Dusen and Candy Owles. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ida Sagel; father, Herbert Kohl; stepmother, Leah Kohl; brothers, Norman and Raymond Kohl; and sister-in-law, Lois Kohl. The family would like to thank Moffitt Cancer Center, South Florida Baptist Hospital and Gulfside Hospice and Palliative Care for caring for him in his final days. A celebration of life luncheon will be held Feb. 19, 2017, in Plant City. Memorial contributions in his honor may be made in his name to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay at HumaneSocietyTampa.org.

MATTIE LOU CARR Mattie Lou Carr, 86, of Plant City, died Jan. 2, 2017. She was born in Sweet Water, Tennessee. She is survived by her sons, Jesse Carr (Brenda) and Cecil Carr (Janice); siblings, Art Bradshaw and Jean Buser; five grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and many loving family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Carr; and sons, J.C. Carr and Bill Carr. A Celebration of Life was held Jan. 5, at New Hope Freewill Baptist Church in Dover. Committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens, Plant City. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her honor to Good Shepherd Hospice, c/o Chapters Health, 12470 Telecom Drive, Suite 300 W., Temple Terrace, Florida 33637. Online condolences may be

made at HopewellFuneral.com.

LYDIA FLECK ORATOWSKI Lydia Fleck Oratowski, 96, of Plant City, died Nov. 23, 2016, with her family at her side. She was born in Brooklyn, New York on June 16, 1920, to Sophie (Kohl) Fleck and Andrew Henry Fleck. She was baptized at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, where she sang in the choir. In 1937, she graduated from John Adams High School on Long Island. For a first job, she worked at Dun and Bradstreet’s ninth floor New York stock exchange as a secretary. In 1939, she married Constantine Gregory Oratowski. The couple spent 54 happy years together with sons Leonard and Michael until Constantine’s death in 1993. She spoke English, German, Russian and Polish. Her career took her up through various management and directorship positions in Chicago, but she always had time for children. As a Cub Scout leader, she set time out to integrate reading and math into activities, and raised her two sons the same way. Upon moving to Florida in the 1960s, she became the state’s first female rural route carrier for the United States Postal Service. She volunteered at elementary schools in St. Petersburg and Plant City until she was 83, showing her caring spirit and love of humanity. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. She was preceded in death by her husband, Constantine. She is survived by her sons, Leonard (Letty) and Michael (Teresa); and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and greatgreat-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to LifePath Hospice at ChaptersHealth.org. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

I LOVE PLANT CITY

FORECAST FRIDAY, JAN. 6

SATURDAY, JAN. 7 High: 66 Low: 41 Chance of rain: 100%

High: 61 Low: 39 Chance of rain: 0%

High: 67 Low: 47 Chance of rain: 0%

Shipping point: Orlando $12.90

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

WEDNESDAY

1503 S. Collins Street 813-754-0777

1 “Gee whiz!” 5 Small bit of ointment, e.g. 8 Visibly stunned 13 Take countermeasures 18 “Toy Story” human 19 Top-of-the-line, ratings-wise 20 Sneaker features 21 They may cause one to miss the mark? 22 Prickly optimistic view (Part 1) 25 Kind of ballerina 26 Some gems 27 It may have a tongue in it 28 One working on potatoes 29 Sportscaster Berman 30 Veggie in a fairy tale title 31 “Stop, horse!” 32 Intense, adverse criticism 33 Large cutting tool 35 Like anything that just won’t do 41 Amazon parrot 44 ___ Today (newspaper) 45 Fencing weapons 46 Paddle relative 47 Speedway shape 48 Smack but good 50 Mollusks 52 Heavy instrument 53 Prickly optimistic view (Part 2) 56 Highway sections 57 Female farm creature 58 Sported 59 Amazing reviews 60 Brain-twister 61 Town relative 62 Faked out a defender 63 Major airports 64 Wife or husband 67 Filled with freight 68 Extra plentiful 69 Start to mature? 72 Shimon of Israel 73 Prickly optimistic view (Part 3) 76 Eyeballs of romantic poetry 77 Coats with goo, “Ghostbusters”-style 78 Stork relative 79 Minuscule amount 80 Poem that glorifies 81 Name on many tractors 82 Dined 83 Historical record 84 Stick-in-the-mud 87 Physical discomfort 90 Snake-eyes pair 91 Tied up, in scores 93 Clock standard, briefly 94 Letter openers? 97 Fish filet sauce 100 Killed, as a dragon 102 Elaborate hanging 104 Helps a crook be a crook 105 Prickly optimistic view (Part 4) 107 Admiral’s charge 108 How some topics may be debated 109 Figure-skating jump 110 Straight up, in a bar 111 Comforting type of bear 112 Type of alcohol 113 Prefix with “approve” or “respect” 114 ___ about (roams)

1. R - L C C J D 2. T C V W S Z F V H M 3. P C N Z W E R 4. Q Z P Z W C P N Z H 5. I V K P J T

This author wrote My Blood Approves:

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Tuesday, Jan. 10

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Wednesday, Jan. 11

7:21a

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Thursday, Jan. 12

7:21a

5:52p

Jan. 21 Last

Feb. 4 First

Jan. 12 Full

Thursday, Dec. 29

0.03

Friday, Dec. 30

0.00

Saturday, Dec. 31

0.00

Sunday, Jan. 1

0.00

Monday, Jan. 2

0.00

Tuesday, Jan. 3

0.04

Wednesday, Jan. 4

0.00

YEAR TO DATE:

JAN. TO DATE:

2017 0.07 in.

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2016 0.18 in.

2016

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ACROSS

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Saturday, Jan. 7

CROSSWORD

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5:48p

3 June 4 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.40)

8 9 1

4 1

2 3 6 7 8 5

3 6 4 7

8 5

2 9 3 6

4 9 1

4 6 9 1

8 5 2 3

DOWN

1 Canvas support 2 Garden dwarf 3 Some Madison Avenue workers 4 Salon employee, at times 5 Small contraption, generically 6 Some insects 7 Hive dweller 8 In spite of, briefly 9 Rich, elaborate cake 10 Painful exercise aftermath, sometimes 11 Apex 12 Suffix of exaggerations 13 Some TV fare 14 Discoverer’s cry of old 15 Seed covering, sometimes 16 Inviting word 17 Ex-leader of Russia 19 Hank Hill’s town 23 Oblong yellow fruit 24 Sound type at either end of Alaska 28 Applies oneself diligently 31 Trash and such 32 Energy sources 33 Cotton unit 34 Like James Bond 36 Approached

37 Rotates 38 All tied up? 39 Where to find washing instructions 40 Demagnetize a tape 41 What the greedy always want 42 Formally declare as true 43 24 cans, often 48 Young pig (var.) 49 Cautious 50 Movers’ partners 51 Recitation of prayers 52 Small amounts 54 Type of cheese 55 Plod along 56 Vilify in print 60 Chaka Khan’s music group 61 Pool hall staples 62 Rocked out 63 Stereo’s ancestor 64 Easy-going parody 65 Fancy “hidden” 66 Formed into a ball 67 Scottish property owner 68 “___ Without a Cause” 69 Loudness unit 70 Pro ___ (in proportion) 71 And others, for short 73 Blockage of the intestine

74 Industry magnate 75 Fork part 77 Passover ritual 81 TV’s saga about the Carringtons 82 After-prayer words 83 Showy fall blossom 85 Like a small i 86 Annually 88 Tequila sources 89 Incite to action 92 LP material 94 Like active deckhands 95 Daily sustenance, biblically 96 Dermatologist’s concerns 97 Only president ever on the Supreme Court 98 “___ to leap tall buildings ...” 99 Wind instrument insert 100 Fired, as a weapon 101 Strongly opposed, of old 102 Vehicle to hail 103 Thing to sing 105 Word in many titles 106 Possessed at one time

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MONDAY, JAN. 9

Do you have a photo that speaks to the personality of Plant City? Submit it to Managing Editor Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com

MOON PHASES

SUNDAY, JAN. 8

Ashley wins a free car wash from Octopus Car Wash, which can be claimed with an ID at 1503 S. Collins St.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

SUNRISE / SUNSET

High: 75 Low: 62 Chance of rain: 20%

Ashley Greco captured this photo of the lights in Historic Downtown Plant City on Christmas Eve.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2017

FRESHEST MEAT & LOWEST PRICES IN TOWN! FRESHEST MEAT & LOWEST PRICES IN TOWN!

Felton’s Market

Prices Valid Jan 4 - Jan 17

Mon-Sat 7am - 9pm Sundays 7am - 8pm Follow us on

Felton’s Market From Our

Smokehouse Call us at 813-752-1548 to place your order today.

3.99

3.39

ANY SIZE PACK

1.59

FRESH “WILD CAUGHT”

SMOKED PORK

PERCH FILLETS

NECKBONES FAMILY PACK

1.49

$ LB

4.69

CHICKEN LEG QUARTERS (10LB BAG, .49c LB ) 40LB BOX ............... $13.99 EA

JAMESTOWN SLICED BACON, 1LB PKG ................................................2 for $5

BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN BREASTS, FAMILY PACK .....................$1.49 LB

BAR-S HOT DOGS, 12OZ PKG ...................................................................99c EA

FRESH CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS ................................................................ .69c LB

UNCLE JOHN’S SMOKED SAUSAGE, 5LB PKG .................................. $18.99 EA

FRESH CHICKEN LIVERS or GIZZARDS, FAMILY PACK............................. .99c LB

Cold Deli

LEAN DELI HAM ...................................................................................................................................... $1.99 LB HONEY CURED HAM .............................................................................................................................. $5.29 LB WHITE TURKEY BREAST .......................................................................................................................... $4.99 LB DELI ROAST BEEF .................................................................................................................................... $4.99 LB

Hot Deli

SMOKED CHICKEN LEG QUARTERS, 6 PIECE PACK ............................................................................ $5.29 EA SMOKED PORK BUTTS ......................................................................................................................... $14.99 EA PULLED PORK ..........................................................................................................................................$5.99 LB FRIED CHICKEN - DARK MEAT, 8 PIECE PACK...................................................................................... $4.99 EA

RUSSET POTATOES 10 LB BAG

2.89 EA

BANANAS

3 LB BAG

1.49 EA

COLLARD, MUSTARD & TURNIP GREENS BUNCH

.49¢LB

2.99 EA

YUKON GOLD & RUSSET POTATOES 5 LB BAG

1.49 EA

Lakeland

• Food Stamps, EBT, WIC • Corporate & Organizational Charge Accounts • Postage Stamps

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211827 226824

County Line Rd.

YELLOW ONIONS

DIXIE CRYSTAL or ESSENTIAL SUGAR, 4LB BAG .............................................................................................................................................................. 2 for $4.00 ESSENTIAL MILK, GALLON .....................................................................................................................................................................................................$2.99 EA EXTRA LAUNDRY DETERGENT, 100OZ ..................................................................................................................................................................................$3.99 EA OVEN FRESH BREAD, 20OZ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... .99c EA POLAR TUNA IN WATER, 5OZ .................................................................................................................................................................................................. .69c EA CANILLA RICE, 20 LB BAG ......................................................................................................................................................................................................$8.99 EA CHAMOY, 33.8OZ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 2 for $4.00 MT OLIVE KOSHER DILL PICKLES, GALLON ..........................................................................................................................................................................$4.99 EA GERBER’S ORGANIC APPLE JUICE (8OZ), 4 PACK ................................................................................................................................................................$1.00 EA BIG RED, 2 LITER ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... .69c EA

4 Park Rd.

Maryland Ave.

SLICED ½

DIAMOND REEF SEAFOOD MIX, 1LB BAG ........................................... $2.49 EA

Felton’s offers our customers the very best produce at the best prices. Most of the produce is purchased from local growers. We offer every day the best in produce available plus any seasonal or ethnic produce. We buy daily from the local markets. Come in and compare price and quality against any other store. We guarantee you will enjoy the experience of shopping at Felton’s

St.

PORK LOIN

2.49

PORK PAN SAUSAGE

olds

FRESH GROUND

Reyn

1.59

PORK CHOPS

“EVERYDAY LOW PRICE” ECONOMY PACK

$2.29

BOSTON BUTTS

BONELESS CENTER CUT

RIBS

FRESH BONE-IN

1.79

COUNTRY STYLE

1.79

3.39

SPARERIBS “9 SLABS” BOX WEIGHT

RUMP ROAST

FRESH I.B.P

GROUND BEEF

1.99

HEAVY WESTERN

CHUCK ROAST

FRESH

Baker St.

www.feltonsmarket.com

Having a large gathering and need an entire pig roasted to tasty perfection? We can handle any size order you might have. Our smokehouse is the best in Plant City and the surrounding area.

HEAVY WESTERN BONE-IN

CUT FREE

PLANT CITY

(813) 752-1548

At Felton’s we offer a complete line of fresh meat and produce. You’ll ﬁnd only the best quality meats at bargain prices. Whether it be that special occasion dinner, or you are planning a large party, call or stop by today. No matter what your needs, Felton’s is sure to have the ﬁnest, most tender meat and tasty produce anywhere.

T-BONES & PORTERHOUSE

Sam Allen Rd.

617 N. Maryland Ave., Plant City

CHOICE MEATS • PRODUCE • GROCERIES

FRESH WHOLE SHORT LOIN

WALKER PLAZA