02.08.24 PLCO by Plant City Observer

FREE • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

VOLUME 11, NO. 33

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR UPCOMING PIT COUNT Each year, the county undertakes a massive effort to physically count unhoused residents. MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

The Tampa Hillsborough Homeless Initiative (THHI) is seeking more than 600 volunteers for the annual Point-In-Time (PIT) Count, on Feb. 22, a count of the number of unhoused people across all municipalities, as mandated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Devel-

opment (HUD). According to HUD, each community shall make every effort to count all homeless individuals living outdoors, in shelters and in transitional housing.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

CHILIFEST BRINGS THE HEAT TO PLANT CITY 2024 CHILIFEST WINNERS MILD 1st Place BSA Troup 734 2nd Place SCL (Seaboard Cost Line) NOVELTY 1st Place Brent’s BBQ 2nd Place Scooby’s Outdoor Adventures SPICY 1st Place Scooby’s Outdoor Adventures 2nd Place Grace Manor at Hunters Creek PEOPLES’ CHOICE Spicy Scooby’s Outdoor Adventures

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

When Lloyd Thomas, a member of the board of directors of the Robert W. Willaford Train Museum, asked Steven Harris, scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 734, if his troop would perform the flag ceremony at this year’s ChiliFest/Railfest, held last Saturday at the train depot. He agreed and thought that since they were going to be

there anyway, they may as well enter a chili in the cookoff as well. Each patrol cooked up a chili recipe at a weekend campout last month and the one that tasted best, judged by the scouts and leaders, was entered into the chili competition. The Redacted Patrol came out on top.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

NEWS

DISCOUNTED FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL TICKETS NOW ON SALE AT PUBLIX SUPER MARKET STORES Discounted admission tickets to the 2024 Florida Strawberry Festival are on sale at participating Publix Super Market stores. Tickets can be purchased until Mar. 10 and cost $10 for adults and $4 for children 6-12 years old. Children 5 years old and younger are admitted free with a paying adult. “The Florida Strawberry Festival values the relationship we have with Publix Super Markets,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Kyle Robinson. “Once again this year, we are partnering together to offer a discount on gate admission tickets, so those who shop Where Shopping is a Pleasure can also visit a Strawberry Festival that is Out of This World.” Additionally, Publix will sponsor Food and Fun Friday on Fri., Mar. 1. Festival patrons are encouraged to bring a Publix or Greenwise branded non-perishable item to receive a $5 discount on a $30 ride armband. To see a list of participating stores or for more information about Publix Food and Fun Friday, visit flstrawberryfestival.com. KIWANIS ACLUB OF PLANT CITY TO HOST 65TH ANNUAL OUTSTANDING CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD LUNCHEON The Kiwanis Club of Plant City will host the 65th Annual Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award Luncheon on Wed., Feb. 14 at the Florida Strawberry Festival TECO Expo

Hall. Doors will open at 11 a.m. and the buffet will begin at 11:30 a.m. The event program will begin at 12:02 p.m. The luncheon is open to the public, admission is $35 per person. For tickets, contact Kiwanis Club of Plant City, Sharon Moody, at sharonmoody91@yahoo.com or (813) 453-7134. LET SUNSHINE LINE DO THE DRIVING Trips to the grocery store just got easier. Sunshine Line will provide free weekly round trip transportation from the Plant City Community Resource Center, located at 307 N. Michigan Ave., to the Winn Dixie grocery store and back on Thursdays. Boarding begins at 10:30 a.m. and the bus leaves at 10:45 a.m. The return trip leaves the store at noon. For reservations, call (813) 272-5220. STAY AT THE SCENE: A HIT AND RUN ISN’T AN ACCIDENT, IT’S A CRIME! If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, don’t even think about leaving the scene. Under Florida law, a driver MUST stop immediately at the scene of a crash on public or private property, which results in property damage, injury or death. If a driver fees the scene, the situation becomes even worse. * If the crash involves property damage, leaving the scene is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor with penalties of up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. * Leaving the scene of a crash with injuries is a second-

or third- degree felony, and a driver, when convicted, will have their driver’s license revoked for at least three years and can be sentenced to up to five years in prison and incur a $5,000 fine. * Drivers leaving the scene of a crash with a fatality could be sentenced up to 30 years in prison and incur a $10,000 fine. “Leaving the scene of a crash risks the lives of others and jeopardizes your freedom,” said Michele Harris, Florida Public Affairs Director, AAA- The Auto Group. “Do the right thing. Be alert on the road and if you are involved in a crash, remain safely on scene and call for help.” ASSOCIATED BUILDERS AND CONTRACTORS (ABC) FLORIDA GULF COAST CHAPTER ENDORSES KAREN BENDORF FOR HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 7 Karen Bendorf, a Plant City resident, wife of a community pastor, public school teacher in Hillsborough County and candidate for Hillsborough County School Board, District 7, received the endorsement of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Florida Gulf Coast Chapter. “I’m grateful for the widespread support from the building and construction industry as we collaborate to instill robust academic and social skills in our students for their future workforce endeavors,’ said Bendorf. “My determination lies in guiding students towards lifelong success, emphasizing that their chosen path- whether it be higher education or trade schools- will be nurtured with equal dedication.”

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

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CHILIFEST BRINGS THE HEAT TO PLANT CITY

STRAWBERRY CREST’S SARTHAK GUPTA WINS ANNUAL CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE GUPTA, AND OTHER WINNERS FROM AROUND THE COUNTRY, WILL SHOWCASE THEIR APPS TO CONGRESS IN APRIL.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Sarthak Gupta is the winner of Florida’s Fifteenth District’s annual Congressional App Challenge, announced last week by Representative Laurel Lee. This yearly competition, started in 2015, was created to promote and highlight Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education and to encourage middle and high school students to learn coding and computer science skills. The nationwide competition is designed to have students compete against their peers to create an application or “app” for mobile, tablet or computer devices. Gupta, a senior in Strawberry Crest High School’s International-Baccalaureate (IB) Program, created Signify, an app that uses image processing to convert sign language into English text, which is then spoken aloud by a text-to-speech synthesizer. Gupta decided to participate in the contest after Varun Patel, another student at Strawberry Crest, won the challenge in 2020 and 2021. “I’ve been interested in computer science since I took a STEM elective in middle school,” said Gupta. His inspiration for the app came while volunteering at Feeding America Tampa Bay. “I was volunteering one morning and someone came in who used sign language to communicate,” he said. “None of the staff knew sign language and I thought there needed to be a solution for this. These people are an important part of our society and it’s really important to include them as well.”

2024

Events Calendar JANUARY

26th - Last Friday: Pirates & Princesses McCall Park 5pm - 9pm

FEBRUARY 23rd - Last Friday: Pokemon McCall Park 5pm-9pm

It took Gupta just less than five months to create the app, working mostly on weekends. He used the programming language Python, which he learned in ninth grade at Florida Virtual School and through online tutorials. Right now, Signify can be used on a laptop but his goal is to make it available in the app store so people can use it real time. “I also want to improve the user interface to make it more user friendly and make it available in multiple languages in addition to English,” he said. He’s also hopes to share the app with the organization that inspired the design, Feeding America Tampa Bay. Swara Patel, enrolled in Carrollwood Day School, earned second place for the app SeaSafe, which helps determine if products are safe or unsafe for ocean reefs. Vishal Naveen, enrolled at Middleton High School, earned third place for the app H.I.M. (Hurricane Inventory Management), that facilitates the organization and coordination of food drives during hurricane emergencies. Congresswoman Laurel Lee was impressed by the talent students across the community displayed in this year’s competition. “It is important for Congress to continue to champion and inspire students to explore STEM, coding, and computer science to support the next generation of leaders in this field,” she said. The winner from each district is invited to showcase their winning app to Congress during its annual HouseOfCode festival in April. AUGUST

JULY 26th - Last Friday: Witches & Wizards McCall Park 5pm-9pm

SEPTEMBER 7th - Farmer’s Market McCall Park 10am - 3pm

30th - Last Friday: Superheroes & Villans McCall Park 5pm - 9pm

OCTOBER 25th - Last Friday: Nightmare on Main Street McCall Park 5pm - 9pm

28th - 3rd Annual Oktoberfest McCall Park 3pm - 10pm

MARCH

29th - Last Friday: “Zootastic” Expedition Wildlife McCall Park 5pm - 9pm

APRIL 13th - Sample the City McCall Park 4pm - 8pm 26th - Last Friday: Galaxy Wars McCall Park 5pm - 9pm

NOVEMBER 14th - Volunteer Appreciation Dinner Location TBD 6:30pm - 8pm 30th - Small Business Season Kickoff McCall Park 5pm - 9pm

DECEMBER

13th - Sip & Shop Art Walk Santa Letters McCall Park 5pm - 9pm

MAY

31st - Last Friday: Anime McCall Park 5pm - 9pm

31st - Strawberry Drop: A New Year’s Celebration 7pm - 12:30am

JUNE

28th - Last Friday: 80's Neon Night McCall Park 5pm - 9pm

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“I’m not sure how they came up with it but everybody at camp loved it,” said Harris. “I honestly think it was because it had ground beef and bacon in it.” Campers weren’t the only people to love its taste. ChiliFest judges must have also enjoyed its flavor because the troop took first place in the Mild category. They also ran out, even though they made more than the suggested amount. Harris presented the trophy to the troop at their weekly meeting. “They were so excited,” he said. Troop 734 was just one of dozens of teams, from amateur competitors to seasoned professionals, that vied for “Best Chili” bragging rights. Not every chili team used such innocuous ingredients. Scooby’s Outdoor Adventures used both bison and camel meat in the chili they entered in the Novelty category. “Last year we did bison and elk but we didn’t place in that category so we decided to change it up and try something new,” said Scooby’s chef Carl Stearns, who bought the camel meal at Heights Meat Market on Bloomingdale Avenue. “I can make cardboard taste good.” His bison/camel chili placed second in the Novelty category. The annual contest is one of several fundraisers held by the Arts Council of Plant City each year, raising money through entry fees for participants, donations, prize raffles, a 50/50 raffle and the $5 fee for visitors to stroll across the Robert W. Willaford Train Museum grounds to sample the chili from each team in attendance.

Winning teams were selected in Mild, Spicy and Novelty categories, voted on by a panel of three secret judges, as well as a People’s Choice category that was decided by chili tasters.

The 2024 ChiliFest event and Railfest event was a success for both organizations- the Arts Council of Plant City and the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum. “It was also a huge success for our lovely City of Plant City having so much positive activity in our downtown,” said Arts Council Membership Chair Dodie White. “Hundreds and hundreds of people, young and old alike, participated in the fun.” White also expressed appreciation for the Plant Cithy Police Department, Plant City Fire Rescue, the HIllsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Plant City, as well as all the chili teams and sponsors, for their support.

PlantCityObserver.com

COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

PLANT CITY

THIS WEEK ON COPS CORNER, PLANT CITY POLICE INVESTIGATE THEFT OF CATALYTIC CONVERTERS, AGGRAVATED ASSAULT, LIQUOR THEFT AND MORE.

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

JANUARY 27

PICKUP PICKED UP— Stolen Vehicle 1700 Block of E. Cherry St. An officer responded to a residence and met with an individual who reported sometime in the night someone stole his 2008 Ford F350 from his driveway.

SWITCHEROO- Retail Theft 2600 Block of James L Redman Parkway An officer met with an employee in Loss Prevention who reported an individual had switched price tags and attempted to pay less for the merchandise at checkout. The total value of the merchandise was approximately $47.

CAT-ASTROPHE— Theft of Auto Parts 400 Block of W. Renfro Street An officer met with the complainant, who reported that an unknown suspect had cut the catalytic converter out of their 2017 Ford F150. LIQUOR IS QUICKER- Retail Theft 2100 Block of James L. Redman Pkwy. An officer responded to the business and met with the manager, who reported that four bottles of tequila had been stolen, valued at $322.82.

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

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JANUARY 26

PAIN IN THE GLASS- Criminal Mischief 800 Block of E. Reynolds St. An officer responded to a business and met with an individual who reported that someone shattered the glass on the business’ front door.

Observer

JANUARY 29 ANOTHER CAT-ASTROPHE— Auto Parts Theft 900 Block of S. Woodrow Wilson Street An officer responded to the address in reference to a delayed theft of two catalytic converters stolen from work vans. NOT ANOTHER CAT-ASTROPHE- Auto Parts Theft 900 Block of E. Baker Street An officer met with an employee of the business, who stated that catalytic converters in two vehicles, that had been parked in the parking lot, had been stolen.

NO LICENSE TO DRIVE- Criminal Citation 2000 Block of N. Wheeler Street While conducting a traffic enforcement, an officer issued a woman a criminal citation for not having a valid driver’s license.

JANUARY 30 BYE-CYCLE- Aggravated Assault with Firearm 100 Block of E. Reynolds Street An officer met with several victims who stated that a man confronted the victim over a social media post and got into a verbal argument, during which time the man lifted up his shirt, displaying a firearm in his waistband. Victims stated the man acted like he was going to grab the gun and were in fear for their lives. The man was placed under arrest. DEADBEAT DAD- Warrant Arrest (Other Agency) 1100 Block of W. Spencer Street Officers located and arrested a man for a Hillsborough County writ of bodily attachment contempt of court for failure to pay child support (x2) with a purge amount of $45,000. The man was transported to Orient Road Jail. STICKY FINGERS- Petit Theft 1700 Block of James L Redman Parkway An officer with the store clerk, who advised a male entered the store, selected two packs of Fireball “shooters,” concealed them under his shirt and left the business without paying for them. Total value of the stolen merchandise is $21.48.

JANUARY 31 MONEY MATTERS- Fraud 1000 Block of W. McLendon Street Officers responded to a residence to a possible fraud complaint and made contact with a woman who stated her landlord had not received her rent payments she sends using Wal-Mart even though she had received receipts showing the money had been transferred. Wal-Mart representatives requested a police report number before opening a fraud investigation.

FEBRUARY 1 NICE PURSE- Vehicle Burglary 4000 Block of Capri Coast Drive An officer responded to a residence and met with the victim, who reported her Michael Kors purse, laptop computer and Nissan keychain were stolen from her unlocked vehicle. A HUNGRY THIEF- Petit Theft Officers met with the store manager, who reported unknown persons took pizzas valued at $72.66 and walked away without paying for them.

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VETERANS HONORED WITH QUILTS OF VALOR AT GRACE MANOR

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

The gesture recognizes their service and sacrifice.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Two Plant City veterans who live at Grace Manor were honored for their service during a Quilts of Valor ceremony last week. The recipients, Sergeant Joseph DeMello, Jr. and Staff Sergeant Gregory Irizarry, served their country with distinction, and their sacrifices were acknowledged with beautifully crafted quilts. Tammy Arnold, a local quilter and Florida state coordinator for the Quilts of Valor Foundation, said her group made each quilt in patriotic colors of reds, white and blues to present to the men. A Quilt of Valor has a three-part message: first, we honor your service; secondly, we know freedom is not free and the quilt says, “Thank You for your sacrifice” and thirdly, these quilts are meant to offer comfort. A retired veteran herself, she said presenting the quilt to the veterans is heartwarming. “I get so emotional every time we present a quilt,” she said. “It makes my heart sing and I love doing this.” DeMello proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from Nov. 16, 1948 until Aug. 15, 1952 as an infantry rifleman in the”Two Five” Dog Company at Camp

Pendleton, California. His battalion sailed from Camp Pendleton to defend the Pusan Perimeter as part of the famous “Fire Brigade.” He was wounded during the first battle of the Nakdong River in Korea, was sent to Japan to recover from his injuries and then returned to Korea to fight in the second battle at the Chosin Reservoir where he received frostbit on his hands and feet. DeMello has been awarded the Purple Heart Medal, Korean Service Medal, Marine Corp Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation with two bronze stars as well as many other distinguished awards and designations. Irizarry served in the United States Army from Nov. 15, 1954 until May 1979 in the Military Occupational Specialty or MOS 13E Cannon Fire Direction Specialist. After boot camp at Fort Dix, New Jersey, he was stationed in Arkansas and Germany. After a short break in service, he joined the Florida Army National Guard in Lakeland and worked the weapons cage in the Armory until his release in May 1979. He has been awarded the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal and other distinguished awards and decorations. Both veterans appreciated the quilt. “It’s very nice,” said DeMello, a Korean War vet-

eran who can still recall his years of service as if it was yesterday. “I got wounded on my 19th birthday, it was so many years ago, 72 years ago,” he said. His stories could fill a book, of the camaraderie of other soldiers who would become like family, of meeting Hilda, who would become his wife, on his first day home, of being invited to the White House and meeting meeting President and Mrs. Truman and Sarah Churchill, daughter of former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

Since Arnold’s Quilts of Valor inception four years ago, they’ve awarded almost 500 quilts. This year, they’ve already presented more than 22 quilts to veterans. She said her group is always looking for volunteers to help them honor more veterans. There are many ways to get involved, including quilters (especially longarmers) to donate their time to make quilts. Monetary donations are also needed to purchase supplies to make the quilts. For more information about how to donate or to nominate a veteran for a Quilt of Valor visit qovf.org.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

CITY FURNITURE PLANTS SEEDS OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN YOUTH THROUGH FACILITIES TOUR

The event brought together little CEOs from Big Brothers Big Sisters Tampa Bay who learned about what it takes to lead a large corporation. MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Last week, CITY Furniture CEO Andrew Koenig gave more than a dozen kids from Big Brothers Big Sisters Tampa Bay the opportunity to take a behind the scenes tour of its Plant City Showroom, where local business leaders, including the Indo US Chamber of Commerce and NSU Alumni Association, joined in for a day of learning and networking. From logistics and inventory management to marketing strategies and customer service protocols, the “young CEOs for the day” delved into various aspects of the business under the guidance of CITY Furniture’s seasoned professionals. The event was a vehicle to connect the power of mentorship with the importance of nurturing the next generation of leaders. “At CITY we don’t want to be just a furniture store, we really want to be a part of the community, to connect and add value and be involved,” said Koenig. “We want to be good corporate citizens and good community stewards and you can’t do that behind a desk, That’s why we’re trying to grow these partnerships.” Beth Bennett, a former Big Brothers Big Sisters Tampa Bay board member who is now a mentor, brought 11-year-old Thaxton, to expose him to opportunities available in the community. “ We do a lot of things together and he gets exposed to a lot of things,” she said. “This is a great program.”

Recently they attended Mike Alstott’s football camp and a USF basketball game. “It makes a difference, for most of these kids the odds are against them,” she said. “My mission is to expose him to as much as I can and help him graduate from high school.” Chris Letsos, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Tampa Bay, said it’s important for youth to see a path to help them move forward in life. “A lot of our kids have never been inside this building and to get a behind the scenes tour with their mentor is something we’re excited about,” he said. “We’re incredibly thankful for the CITY team.” Letsos said his group is always looking for more volunteers. “Kids today need guidance and support more than ever,” he said. “We’re asking people to give a little bit of their time to make a big impact.” Koenig understands the impact a business tour can have on individuals. In college, he toured Toyota and learned what made the company so successful. “For me and my own journey, seeing tours is inspiring and gives you another perspective,” he said. “These students get to see that work can be fun and having good careers. Hopefully I can inspire all of them but it’s worth it if this messages reaches one of them.” For more information about CITY Furniture visit cityfurniture.com. For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters Tampa Bay visit gobigtampabay.org.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

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COUNTY LINE FARMS INDUSTRIAL PROJECT UNDERWAY Buildings 400, 450 and 500 – totaling roughly 700,000 square feet – will be built to suit. MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Ordered something online and surprised that the item is delivered in less than 24 hours? Thank a super-sized warehouse, their growth driven by e-commerce and consumers’ insatiable desire for inexpensive goods delivered in a hurry. Plant City is no stranger to these developments, thanks to readily available land, a close proximity to major highways and incentives by local government. While not always embraced, as proven by residents that have packed city commission meetings to stop these projects from coming to fruition, these gargantuan warehouses are here to stay. Adding to the sprawling industrial projects that are transforming the landscape of the I-4 corridor in Plant City, construction is well underway on a more than 699,800 square-foot industrial property on County Line Road, part of the larger 2.8 million square foot County Line Farms Distribution Park. County Line Farms, a build-to-suit project, is being developed by Aspyre Properties and Blue Steel Development. Landon Beck, Jan Boltres and Mia Jarrell of Colliers are managing leasing for County Line Farms. The Colliers team is working closely with the Plant City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to identify users that will add value to the community. “The manufacturing industry is a focus of the Plant City EDC. We have a rich history in the industry and are in a great position to support its future needs from a logistics and workforce perspective,” said Plant City EDC President and CEO Steve Morey. “We have seen a lot of recent success in the distribution industry for these same reasons and look for the growth to continue.”

Manufacturing is one of the largest industries in Plant City, with 2,829 employees. The influx of warehouse space is poised to create a ripple effect across various sectors, particularly in job creation. With the need for skilled laborers, logistics professionals and administrative staff, the project is expected to generate hundreds of employment opportunities. To entice tenants, the developer is offering significant infrastructure to support manufacturing uses, including a 12-inch water main that can support three and a half million gallons of water usage per day, a 30 MVA transformer, natural gas and wiring for fiber-optic internet. “I don’t know of any other sites that have this type of infrastructure, and more importantly a landlord that is willing to expand on the infrastructure based on the needs of the tenant,” said Beck, Senior Associate at Colliers. “Putting the infrastructure in place to support manufacturing usage is a substantial investment, and Aspyre and Blue Steel are willing to make that investment to attract the right tenant.” County Line Farms is currently more than halfway complete, with Ace Hardware and Saddlecreek Logistics Services occupying 719,517 square feet and 1,204,632 square feet, respectively. Buildings 400, 450 and 500 – totaling roughly 700,000 square feet – will be built to suit. “This site is in a prime location within a mile of the I-4 Corridor and with more than 10 million people located within a 100-mile radius,” said Boltres, Executive Vice President of Colliers.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

FEB. 22 PIT COUNT NEEDS VOLUNTEERS Unhoused people will be counted to estimate the

PlantCityObserver.com

WEEKEND SHOOTING LEAVES ONE DEAD

number of homeless in the community.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

During the Homeless Count, hundreds of volunteers canvas the streets, alleys and wooded areas to locate, count and survey individuals and families experiencing homelessness, including those living in emergency shelters, transitional housing and interim housing for homeless persons and places not meant for human habitation, such as cars, parks, sidewalks and abandoned buildings. The data collected through a short survey and observation provides a ‘snapshot’ of what the homeless population in the

community looks like during a single, 24hour period and for how long. There are several deployment sites throughout the county, including Winters Visitors Center at 403 Dort St. in Plant City. Volunteers work one of three shifts: 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Prior to the shift, volunteers must complete a required 15-minute online training. Volunteers must also be at least 18 years of age, however high school students can volunteer but must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. For more information or to register to become a volunteer visit thhi.org.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a homicide investigation that left one dead in the parking lot of The Twilight Zone Lounge in Plant City, police said. In the early morning hours of Feb. 3, HCSO received a 911 call that an unknown individual had shot an adult man. When deputies arrived, they found Pablo Torres Orozco, 32, with a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital, where he

was pronounced deceased. “Our hearts ache for this family for their lost loved one over senseless violence,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Our detectives are gathering every piece of information to find what led to this crime. We are committed to bringing justice to the victim and his family and finding who is responsible for this tragic loss of life.” Detectives are asking anyone who was in the area that morning, that may have seen something related to this crime, to call HCSO at 813-247-8200. This is an ongoing investigation.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

SPORTS Glenn Lyle By Dylan Tice | Photo Courtesy of Christy Lyle Glenn Lyle is a 10-yearold who lives and breathes sports. He currently plays football for the Under Armor League and plays baseball for the Miracles. He just finished a basketball season at Sadye Gibbs Community Center where he was the leading scorer on the Kings squad. Join us as we interview our youngest athlete of the week in some time! How long have you been playing sports? I’ve been playing sports since I was 3 years old, so 7 years total. Which of the 3 sports is your favorite to play? My favorite really changes all the time, but right now my favorite is football! I also think that’s what I’m best in at the moment.

Besides the sports you currently play, what sport would you eventually want to try out? Wrestling, because that’s my grandpa’s favorite sport. He’s already taught me some moves! What’s your favorite career highlight? Favorite play ever! It was baseball in 2023 during a tryout, I almost hit a home run off Kenny Kelly on Kenny Kelly Field. If you’re not playing sports, what are you doing in your free time? Playing video games with friends like Fortnite and Madden or training to get in sports. Which of the three sports that you play is the hardest and why? Baseball for sure. It took me a while to get good

at it. It didn’t take me as long to get good at football and basketball. Which sport do you want to take all the way and go pro? The goal is to go pro in all 3. I’m trying to be the next Prime Time and do different sports. What’s your pre-game food to eat before your game? White Cheddar CheezIts! That’s the secret to balling out. Who’s your favorite player to root for in all 3 sports all time? Ben Roethlisberger, Mookie Betts, & LeBron James What are your favorite songs to get you hyped on game day? Intro by DMX

THE HOME TEAMS BRING HOME TOP PRIZES IN STATE COMPETITION DYLAN TICE

SPORTS WRITER

Plant City High School, Durant High School, and Strawberry Crest High School all traveled to the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, on February 2, to compete against other Florida high school cheer teams for a chance to win state championships, and they all brought home the gold. -Plant City High School won the Medium Non-Tumbling Division -Durant High School won the Small NonTumbling Division -Strawberry Crest won the Small Co-Ed Division All three teams qualified for the national competition, held this weekend at ESPN’s Wide World Of Sports Complex in Orlando.

Durant High School Cheer Coach Savanna Kolanowski explained how the team felt heading into the competition. “To quote one of our athletes, Keira Hodge, this team was “Hungry but humble,” Kolanowski said, “which I think perfectly describes these athletes. After ten years of coaching Durant Cheerleading, I can confidently say there has never been a more prepared team than this one going

into States. Being physically prepared is one thing, but the mental toughness of this team the week leading to states has really been next-level. The team knew to keep their dream alive they had to hit two perfect routines. With that pressure on their backs, we, as a coaching staff, knew that mental toughness was going to be the determining factor in whether or not this team could pull it off. The team prepared for every scenario and pushed themselves each practice leading up to Friday’s competition. The discipline that these girls built mentally and physically and the bond that had grown between them as a team was evident in their confidence as they arrived at the State Competition.” Heading into Nationals, the Cougars met their goal, so what happens next will be the icing on the cake. “Our goal for this season was winning a state title,” Kilanowski said. “Now that we have accomplished that, Nationals for us is about having fun and enjoying the last moments we have together as a team. We will prepare the same way that we did for states, working on our mental toughness and getting in reps to help with consistency in the routine. With our primary goal for the season accomplished, the pressure is dialed back and all we want is to go out and put amazing routines on the mat. As coaches, we want to ensure that the team is focused on enjoying this time, regardless of the outcome at Nationals.” Plant City High School also had the goal of bringing home another state championship. “As soon as this season began, we started working toward the goal of bringing home another State Championship,” Plant City High School Cheer Coach, Skotti Mesquita said. “We knew this team had the skills and the routine, but it was the mental toughness and confidence that would be the determining factor in if they would be able to come out on top. After months of mental and physical preparation, we were confident that if we hit our

routine, we would be successful. Leading up to State Finals specifically, we were coming off an absolutely amazing routine and win at Western Conference, and a phenomenal week of practice. Ultimately, we were just focused on us and putting our best on the competition floor!” The state championships gave them a confidence boost heading into the National competition. “I think this win gives the team more confidence heading into Nationals and I know they’re excited to get another opportunity to put an even better routine on the floor,” Coach Mesquita said. “Aside from winning our division at State, we had the second-highest score out of every single 2A team, sitting only behind Bartow, who is an incredible program. That builds further confidence in our girls and reminds them what they’re capable of. We have moved up in placement every single year at Nationals. We placed 6th in 2020 and 2021, 5th in 2022, and 3rd last season. We have big goals for Nationals this year and are focused on getting confident, clean hits that lead us to a history-making outcome!” Strawberry Crest was primed for the state competition. “We felt very confident and ready for the win,” Coach Loveny Rivas Savarino said. “We prepped our minds for the big moment as well as physically.

We had wonderful practices all week with hard, clean hits. This team would be the team to win its 10th consecutive State title for Strawberry Crest High School, so much time was spent preparing for the moment so we felt prepared to perform under such pressure.” The Chargers are no stranger to winning. “Our program won Nationals in 2020 and since then every team thereafter has had the goal to become National Champions again,” Savarino said. “Our program is consistently in the top four in a very tough, competitive, and talented division. Although winning States is an accomplishment all on its own, we understand the high level of competition ahead of us and continue to train hard mentally and physically for our moment in front of the iconic castle at ESPN Wide World of Sports.”

Photo Credit: Plant City High School (Skotti Snapp Mesquita) Strawberry Crest High School (Melissa Alfonso) Durant High School (Olivia Erker )

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

REAL ESTATE

JANUARY 2024 Real Estate Transactions

PlantCityObserver.com

Data pulled from GTAR MLS as of 2/4/24 for the Plant City market area. Mortgage Data from Freddiemac.com

Local January 2024 sales and trend information courtesy of The Crawford Group. “MARKETS, MARKETS, MARKETS”…… all are intertwined, the real estate, stock and simply the supply/demand. In January, the stock market started off lower than mid-month anticipates and prices in future Fed rate cuts, and the stock market started mounting new higher values to end the month at new market highs. All the existing market data point to lower inflation, treasury rates fall, then the Fed warns the market that the rate cuts will be delayed coming and these opposing viewpoints create fluctuations in the mortgage rates. History tells us that the Fed is always slow to react to the data, more cautionary to avoid recession, but the supply/demand factors will establish the true north for these factions even if the Fed is slow to react. As for real estate, the market is stable and will continue to gain in value throughout the year. Inventory pressures will remain in tack giving sellers a slight edge while the buyers will increase once the mortgage rates begin to drop. All these factors are pointing to a robust upcoming year in real estate. AS WE LOOK AT THE PLANT CITY HOUSING DATA, January 2024, our market area had 58 homes sell, 209 under contract and 211 available for sale. These numbers are better than year-over-year numbers, YOY and in line for a good start for the year. The housing inventory is running about 2.63 months supply, a 14% increase over the prior’s quarter average of 2.3 months supply. Our average days on market has slowed to 46.6 days compared to 36.8 days in the previous quarter. In January 2024, the average sold price was $375,426 or an average price per SF of $197.73 compared to last quarter, we are basically flat in growth, slightly positive in percentage. New construction homes accounted for 28 units last month at an average price per SF of $183.37 discounted due to Buyer’s having to pay for all or the majority of closing costs in the transaction. As we look around our community,

more and more new construction is being built and will become a bigger part of filling the inventory shortages in the near future. The prevailing mortgage rates from Freddie Mac for the average 30-year-term loans have bounced around the past few weeks. Your individual rate will depend on many parameters, like income, debt, credit score, etc. While we finished the year at 6.61%, January was up to 6.64% and February is trending slightly higher, basically due to opposing views of the Fed, Treasury rates and Stock market opinions. These fluctuating rates will stabilize soon and then proceed lower towards the end of the year. Many assume that sellers are not willing to trade in their sub-4 mortgage rates for a higher rate, but that’s not the reason why they sell. Life situations change, they want to be closer to family, need more space or time to downsize, want a better neighborhood, job change/relocation, or want to tap into built-up equity are reasons that outweigh the rate. As for those buyers who purchased a home last year, please do not forget to file for your Homestead Exemption. The filing deadline is MARCH 1st, 2024. This exemption is a valuable tax benefit that can save homeowners up to $50,000 on their taxable value and cap future property tax increases to 3%. As Realtors® we see it all the time when a seller wasn’t aware of the exemption or missed the deadline to get an unpleasant surprise in November that their property taxes went up substantially. Be proactive so as not to be in this camp of homeowners, once the exemption is filed you don’t have to file again on the subject property. If you are in the market to buy or sell your home, please seek an experienced professional Realtor® to assist you in this transaction process. There are too many consequences, going it alone without proper experienced representation. Get the real scoop on our market. If you

have any questions, want a market value analysis of your home, or see what’s available to purchase, please reach out. M Crawford Crawford Group SALES SNAPSHOT The following residential properties were a sample listed as sold on the Greater Tampa Realtors Association MLS in Jan 2023 for the Plant City Market Area. The home at 1802 Whitehall St sold Jan 23 for $135,000. Built in 1953, it has 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and 744 square feet of living area. The home at 704 E Calhoun St sold Jan 5 for $240,000. Built in 1946 it has 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and 858 square feet of living area. The home at 6632 Durant Rd sold Jan 11 for $260,000. Built in 1954 it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1356 square feet of living area. The home at 3407 Grove Blossom Ln sold Jan 17 for $281,000. Built in 2006, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1719 square feet of living area. The home at 3536 Marigold Patch Ct sold Jan 30 for $294,900. Built in 2023, it has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and 1758 square feet of living area. The home at 1659 Hazy Sea Dr sold Jan 31 for $324,345. Built in 2023, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1560 square feet of living area.

The home at 3911 Creek Woods Dr sold Jan 4 for $340,000. Built in 1996, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1478 square feet of living area. The home at 1809 Via Chianti St sold Jan 26 for $364,000. Built in 2015, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 2342 square feet of living area. The home 4903 Armor Rd sold Jan 4 for $370,000. Built in 1984, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1398 square feet of living area. The home at 1729 Brookstone Way sold Jan 12 for $399,900. Built in 2001, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1875 square feet of living area. The home at 6301 Bob Head Rd sold Jan 29 for $410,000. Built in 1979, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1296 square feet of living area. The home at 3708 Alafia Creek St sold Jan 24 for $450,000. Built in 2018, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1852 square feet of living area. The home at 3204 Alcott Ave sold Jan 10 for $485,000. Built in 1994, it has 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and 2294 square feet of living area. The home at 3819 N Maryland Ave sold Jan 10 for $547,100. Built in 2023, it has 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bath and 3416 square feet of living area. The home at 2702 W State Road 60 sold Jan 5 for $875,000. Built in 1973, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 bath and 2346 square feet of living area. The home at 8505 Alafia Hills Dr sold Jan 23 for $1,270,000. Built in 2023, it has 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bath and 3958 square feet of living area.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

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AROUND TOWN

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We asked Plant City: Growing up, what was one rule in your parent’s house you absolutely had to obey? Every single one if I cared about my life. Lol Rachel Pate Thornton

“Don’t touch the thermostat!” Shannon Marie

Chores after school Jennifer Benton

No lies- no matter what. Janet Bethart Maze 289704-1

Home by dark!! Lucy Davis

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Respect! Debbie Dukes

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All of them…and the list was long.. Ed Little

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Always clean up after yourself. Matthew Sublett

Don’t touch the guns unless someone is breaking in and we are not home. Load the shotgun sit at top of stairs. Amen! Aaron C. Detrick

Curfew Tammy Easters Bridges

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Quiet while my dad was on the phone Whatever they said, no questions for business. ask! Stacey Peakcock Lynett Brownlee Griffin

If you drink don’t drive. Do the watermelon crawl Travis Falkenberg

Do your homework, then you can go play. Shannon Layne

Hang clothes up and keep bedroom tidy! Clyde Bull Nelson

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You guys had options? Stephen T. Galindo Manners and absolute respect for your elders. Home by dark. Dishes are to be done as soon as dinner is over. Chores are done everyday and bleach and Pine-Sol day every Saturday morning. Rhonda McCullough Lariscy

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

OBITUARIES

Ed Swindle Ed Swindle, 93, of Dover, Fla., passed away peacefully on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024. Ed is survived by the love of his life Myrtle Lou Swindle, whom he was married to for 73 years. He is also survived by sons Larry (Debbie) Swindle of Lake Wales/Plant City and Rodney Swindle of Marianna. Grandchildren include Stephanie Conrad (Jason), Jonathan Swindle, Alysha Edenfield (Nick), Kimberly Cooksey (Stewart). His greatest joy were his great-grandchildren Anna Conrad, Madilyn Worten (Andrew), Shalee Conrad, Ava Swindle, Tucker Conrad, Gauge Edenfield, Alli Jo Swindle, Timberlynn Barber, and Aubrey Edenfield. Ed was strongly rooted in his faith and lived his life to exemplify his love of Jesus. He was an active member at First Baptist Church of Dover, where he has served as a deacon, Sunday school director

and teacher. He also worked as a part of various committees at the church, helped start the Dover Rod Run, and was always the first to lend a hand when growth was needing to be addressed. Ed was the epitome of hardwork, dedication and tenacity. These traits were developed and grew at an early age. He is a proud veteran of the Marine Corps, serving in the Korean War. He loved his country and was committed to doing his part to make sure things were left better for the next generation. Ed graduated from Plant City High School. He held several positions – including apprentice – at an insulation company in Tampa. He eventually purchased the company, and it evolved into ESI Group, an industrial insulation, scaffolding, and sheet metal contractor whose primary customer was power- generating facilities in Florida and the Southeast. Ed was committed to being actively involved in various

trade associations, serving in a variety of leadership positions and earning numerous awards for that service. Ed was a lifelong Agriculturalist. He was involved in agriculture in one way or another since his family moved to Hillsborough County from Davenport in 1932. His father grew fruit and vegetables and handed down a love of farming to his son. Throughout his life Ed has owned and operated numerous acres of tomatoes, strawberries, orange trees and timber, in Hillsborough, Jackson and Calhoun Counties. He was an active part in management and operations, even when he went to work in the insulation field. Ed also was an avid outdoorsman, sharing his love of hunting, fishing and conservation with his family. This legacy lives on today through his sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Over the years Ed has worked hard to support various causes - youth involved in agriculture, education, the local hospitals in Marianna and Plant City, the Florida Strawberry Festival, Warner University, the Florida FFA Organization and Foundation, the Hillsborough Sheriff’s Office and more. Ed has been honored and recognized for his contributions to his community in a variety of ways. In 2010, he received both the Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s Good Egg Award and the Citizen of the Year Award. Farm Credit of Central Florida honored Ed with the Support of Youth and Agriculture Award in 2012, and the Hillsborough County Fair awarded his family with the Farm Family of the Year in 2012. Ed received the Honorary State FFA Degree in 2010 for his contribution to Florida agriculture and FFA. He was inducted into the Florida FFA Hall of Fame in 2013. Ed’s dedication to giving back to his community will

allow his legacy to live on forever. Arrangements to honor the life of Mr. Ed Swindle will be: Visitation Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, from 6 to 8 p. m. at First Baptist Church of Dover. Services - Friday, Feb. 9, 2024 at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Dover. Committal to follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches. Expressions of condolences at www. HopewellFuneral.com.

MaryAnn McDonald Middlebrooks

MaryAnn McDonald Middlebrooks, of Plant City, Fla., went on to her heavenly home on Feb. 3, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Elvira “Vera” Medrano HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Raymond Browning Hill, Jr.

Raymond Browning Hill, Jr., 85, of Bradenton, Fla., born on June 10, 1938, in Live Oak, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Feb. 3, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Elvira “Vera” Medrano of Plant City, Fla., entered her Heavenly home on Jan. 29, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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Carol Emaline Henn

Linda Williams Bailey

Gail Carroll Boyce, 83 of Lithia, Fla., went to be with Jesus Feb. 2, 2024, born Dec., 1940 in Addison, Alabama. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Carol Emaline Henn, 89, of Plant City, Fla., born on Feb. 2, 1934, in Queens, NY, entered into eternal rest on Jan. 30, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Linda Williams Bailey, 85, of Lithia, Fla., born on Jan. 22, 1939, in Pelham, Georgia, entered into eternal rest on Feb. 1, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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Rodney “Rocky” Coile

J.J. Eckertson

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J.J. Eckertson, 40, of Lithia, Fla., born on Feb. 21, 1983, in Tampa, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Jan. 27, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Phillip “Daniel” Segrest

Phillip “Daniel” Segrest, 31, of Mulberry, Fla., born on Sept. 9, 1992, in Brandon, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Jan. 26, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Larry J. Tindel Larry J. Tindel, 74, of Plant City, Fla., born on Nov. 14, 1949, entered into eternal rest on Feb. 1, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Darlene A Wainoris care of Cecil Michael Layton, Taking

each other is what

a cherished soul known Darlene A Wainofor his adventurous spirit ris, age 78, of Plant and selfless love, passed City, Fla., passed away peacefully on Feb. 1, away on Jan. 27, 2024, in his hometown of 2024. Darlene was Plant City, Fla. Friends and born on May 5, E ’ RE received P RO U D TO S E RV E our community family willWbe Feb. 1945. we’re dedicated to helping families create a unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity professionals, Fond 8, 2024, from 10 toMemorial 11 a.m. memories > 100%Home, Service Guarantee Plan Transferability at Haught Funeral and> National expressions of sympa> Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd. A thy may be shared at www. R Memorial Service will follow WellsMemorial.com for the Proudly supporting Wainoris the Plant City Strawberry at 11 a.m. family. Festival. Online condolences can be made at www.haught. care. WELLSMEMORIAL.COM

community

is all about.

Betty Jean Parrish

Betty Jean Parrish, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully on Feb. 5, 2024, at the age of 93, in Brandon, Fla. Born on Oct. 5, 1930, in Ybor Wells MeMorial & event Center City, Fla., Betty’s life was a PlanT CiTy HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM Raymond Day testament to the power of 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com selflessness and the joy of Raymond Day, age 96, of Zona D Wagoner Thonotosassa, Fla., passed giving. Services will be held privately by the family. away on Jan. 28, 2024. Zona D Wagoner, age 64 Online condolences can Raymond was born on Dec. entered into rest on Jan. be made at www.haught. 9, 1927. 30, 2024. Zona was born dedicated to helping W E ’ RE P RO U D TO S E RV E our community care. Fondwe’re memories andfamilies create a Dec. 19, 1959. unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. we’re dedicated to helping families professionals, create a expressions W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community Fond oflife sympathy memories and celebrates the it represents. As your Dignity Memorial unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. >it100% Service Guarantee Plan Transferability may> National be shared at www. expressions celebrates theof lifesympathy represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability WellsMemorial.com for the may be shared at www. > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® Day family. WellsMemorial.com for the R R family. Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. Wagoner M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

10/27/15 10:42 AM

Sylvia J. Hill

Sylvia J. Hill 81, resident HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. of Hillsborough County, FL exited this world on Dec. 19, 2023. No Services. Sylvia WELLSMEMORIAL.COM was predeceased by her WELLSMEMORIAL.COM parents, Ralph and Elenor Wells MeMorial & event Center Jones; sisters, Wilma and PlanT CiTy Wells MeMorial & event Center Linda; granddaughter, 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com PlanT CiTy Carla; husband, Woody; 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com son, Clinton. Still living sister, Gerry; daughters, Sheree (Rusty), Stacey M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

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Cecil Michael Layton

Taking care of Taking care of each other is what each other is what community community is all about. is all about.

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(Bobby); grandchildren, Ryan, Kaylen (KayLeigh), Tyler, Anthony, C.J.; greatgrandchildren, Leighlen, Ruby, Markus and Milo. To honor moms love for dogs, we would love for you to donate to your favorite animal shelter.

OBITUARIES

Gail Carroll Boyce

Rodney “Rocky” Coile, 76, of Lithia, Fla., born on Oct. 19, 1947, in Miami, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Jan. 27, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

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10/27/15 10:42 AM

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

BEST BET SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10

PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES 2024

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 4007 Airport Rd. This annual community event features a wide variety of family activities at the Plant City Airport. See real aircraft and radio-controlled aircraft displays and demonstrations, a car show and operating model train layouts. There will be many hands-on stations for kids, including STEM education exhibits and flight simulators from the Aerospace Center for Excellence, Young Eagles discovery flights conducted by the local Experimental Aircraft Association chapter, Scout merit badge opportunities, a pinewood derby and more. Young children will enjoy inflatable bounce houses and other fun adventures just for them. Food trucks and other local vendors will also be part of the lineup. Ticket pricing is $7.50 online in advance and $10 at the gate. Children 10 and younger are free. Parking is free. For more information or tickets visit mytbaa.org/PTA.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 21ST ANNUAL BLACK HERITAGE BANQUET/GALA 6:30 p.m. at Hillsborough Community College’s Trinkle Center Comedy magican Dewayne Hill performs his G-rated act. Master of Ceremony is Maurice “MO” Billington. Tickets are $50 per person. For more information call Sharon Moody at (813) 453-7134. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 21ST ANNUAL BLACK HERITAGE FESTIVAL YOUTH SUMMIT 9 a.m. to noon at Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center Church and youth school groups are cordially invited to attend this event that begins with free continental breakfast at 8:30 a.m. For more information visit celebration2.homestead.com. ST. PETER’S NEIGHBORHOOD BLOCK PARTY 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 302 Carey St. Join St. Peter’s for a free neighborhood block party! There will be food and fun for the whole family. MARJAZZMAR FESTIVAL 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Robert Willaford Train Museum Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy this jazz festival. For more information visit celebration2.homestead.com.

OPEN MIC NIGHT 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Krazy Kup Join Krazy Kup for a Krazy fun night where you get to be the show! Come out, strut your stuff and share your talent. Performers must be at least 13 years old. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY VETERANS 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bing Rooming House Museum, 205 Allen St. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served any time in the military, retired or non-retention, and would like to review your benefits, please take advantage of free assistance at the Bing Rooming House Museum. Walk-ins welcome or call 813-704-5800 to schedule an appointment. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15 HOPE LUTHERAN MOBILE FOOD PANTRY 6 p.m. at Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Park Rd. Hope Lutheran Church will once again hold their mobile food pantry in the church parking lot. The pantry will begin distributing food to those in need at 6 p.m. until the supplies are distributed. Anyone in need of grocery assistance is encouraged to join them as they work to eliminate food insecurity in the community. No identification required. For additional information, contact the church office at (813) 752-4622.

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BLUEGRASS WITH LARRY CORDLE & MARK “BRINK” BRINKMAN 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Krazy Kup Enjoy the music of Larry Cordle, a Grammy award-winning singer/songwriter, and Mark “Brink” Brinkman, a songwriter who has numerous number one songs in bluegrass, gospel and Americana music. Tickets are $25 per person. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16 ACHIEVE PLANT CITY’S ANNUAL WINE TASTING AND CASINO NIGHT 6 p.m. at Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Rd. Let the good times roll, Mardi Gras-style, at Achieve Plant City’s Seventh Annual Wine Tasting and Casino Night fundraiser. Bring your Krewe to celebrate Achieve’s 12 years of accomplishments and revel in musical entertainment, casino games, auctions, food and beverages and fun. For more information or tickets visit achieveplantcity.org. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 ANNUAL STRAWBERRY CLASSIC SOCCER TOURNAMENT (Sat., Feb. 17 and Sun., Feb. 18 starting at 8 a.m. at Otis M. Andrews and Ellis Methvin Parks, 2602 E. Cherry St. The Plant City Futbol Club, a.k.a. Lancers, are hosting their annual Strawberry Classic. Come join the more than 3,000 expected visitors for a day outdoors supporting Plant City’s premier youth soccer club competing against other teams from

across the state. Free and open to the public. PLANT CITY STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 102 N. Palmer St. The Plant City Strawberry Classic Cruise-In is back on Sat., Feb. 17, rain or shine. Register your cars and trucks of all makes, models and years for free starting at 3 p.m. Free show with Award of Excellence trophies. Live music by DJ John Paul Gasca. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23 LAST FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. Come and be part of a Pokemon-themed night at this month’s Last Friday event! Experience live music at McCall Park, explore the Main Street Kids zone, take a thrilling ride on the extreme gyrosphere, participate in a scavenger hunt, explore the expanded exhibitor market and savor delicious food throughout the evening. Don’t forget to dress up- costumes are highly encouraged! Numerous downtown businesses will stay open late, providing you with the perfect opportunity to shop and support local establishments. Plan your visit to downtown for Last Friday and create lasting memories for the whole family!

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

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I LOVE PLANT CITY

FORECAST THURSDAY, FEB 8

SUNRISE/SUNSET Sunrise Sunset Thursday, Feb 8

7:11a

6:14p

Friday, Feb 9

7:10a

6:15p

Saturday, Feb 10

7:10a

6:15p

Sunday, Feb 11

7:09a

6:16p

FRIDAY, FEB 9

Monday, Feb 12

7:08a

6:17p

Tuesday, Feb 13

7:07a

6:18p

High: 79 Low: 58 Chance of rain: 8%

Wednesday, Feb 14

7:07a

6:18p

High: 78 Low: 56 Chance of rain: 8%

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, FEB 10 High: 81 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 7%

SUNDAY, FEB 11 High: 84 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 8%

MONDAY, FEB 12 As Diane Manna was walking around the path at Hillsborough Community College, she came across this beautiful pink rose.

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AllSaintscc.com

TILE & GROUT STEAM CLEANED 50 cents per Sq.Ft.

5 Private aid gp. 6 Alter ego of Marvel's Peter Porker 7 Dog who bit Miss Gulch 8 Working with 9 Dollar stores? 10 Off-color prints? 11 Quick contests between turns in Mario Party 12 Ticket info 14 CNN journalist Hill 15 Cooks up 20 French fat 22 Rhineland rats? 25 Deadens, in acoustics 27 Bear hand 28 Forum posters who stir things up 29 Beijing monument whose name translates to "gate of heavenly peace" 31 Accessories for many Hindu brides 48 Barely triumphed 28 Laser cut, perhaps Across 33 One with longtime stand50 Tres y cinco 30 Leaves out to dry 1 USWNT star __ Heath ing on Capitol Hill 52 Thomas known as the 32 "I __ Girl From Africa": 6 Shock Elizabeth Nyamayaro mem- "Soul Queen of New Orleans" 34 Installment of "Assassin's 10 CPR crew Creed" featuring Vikings 53 Comfy attire oir 13 Backbend that counter35 Dishes that may be 55 Mid day? acts the effects of prolonged 33 Doctor adorned with bones 56 Staff addition 34 "¡Ándale!" sitting 37 Hard to pin down 57 Oft-redacted no. 35 Made faces, perhaps 15 Alison of "GLOW" 38 Catcher behind a plate? 58 Consignment caveat 16 Finishing school concern? 36 NYC airport code 40 Big brass 59 "Ginger Pye" Newbery 17 "The Best of Everything" 37 Has an in-tents experi42 Soda size Medal winner Eleanor ence? author Jaffe 44 Zappos buy 38 Some Twitter trolls 18 __ stick 46 Seal the deal Down 39 World __ Health Day 19 [Blank stare] 47 Macbeth title 1 Kitchen abbr. 41 Former MLB commis21 Comfort 48 Switch predecessors sioner honored with a statue 2 Snacks filled with "stuf" 23 Greta with three Oscar 49 European import 3 Game in which players in Milwaukee nominations 51 Some deposits form lines 43 Gag reflexes? 24 Digital greeting 4 Particular way with words 54 Afore 45 Hare kin 26 Tank top

Feb. 9 New

Feb. 16 1st Qtr.

Feb.. 24

Full

Mar. 3 3rd Qtr.

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

0.48 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

FEB. AVERAGE:

4.46 in.

2.33 in.

STRAWBERRIES Shipping point: Florida $18.00-$20.00

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

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