02.22.24 PLCO by Plant City Observer

FREE • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

VOLUME 11, NO. 35

PLANT CITY POLICE CHIEF JAMES BRADFORD RESIGNS The city begins nationwide search for his replacement. MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Plant City has begun its search for a new police chief following Police Chief James Bradford’s announcement that he has resigned, citing a desire to move out of state to be closer to family. Bradford’s last day will be May 30.

His decision to step down from his role as Police Chief comes as a surprise to many in the community, who have grown accustomed to his leadership and commitment to public safety. Bradford was hired in mid-November 2020 to fill the role of chief following Chief Ed Duncan’s announcement that he planned to retire at the end of 2020. More than 80 applicants for the position were submitted, and, after it was narrowed down to four, the city hosted a public

PLANT CITY ELKS MAKE DONATION TO BRUTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY

THE DONATION WAS USED TO PURCHASE BOOKS FOR ITS MOBILE LIBRARY. MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

How many books can $4,000 buy? Paul Shaver, Director of Library Services at Bruton Memorial Library, knows the answer: 412. The book donation was a result of a $4,000 matching grant the Elks Lodge received from the Florida State Elks Association following the group securing a $4,000 Beacon Grant it won from the Elks National Foundation to benefit the Boys and Girls Club. While the money from the Beacon Grant was spoken for, the money from the matching grant could be used for another project. “One of our members brought it up at a board meeting that the library could use new books,” said Elks Exalter Ruler George Domedion. “The board voted to use the grant for that purpose. It was taken to the floor of the lodge, and the body of the lodge voted to do that with the grant.” An Elks member contacted Shaver, who had been working on a mobile library outreach program that goes out into the community, to schools and events, helping residents sign up for library cards and distributing donated books.

He wanted to expand the program so that books dedicated specifically for the mobile library would be available for people, particularly young adults, to check out. After discussing what type of books would be best suited for the program, Elks members decided the funds should be spent on books about history, patriotism and science. “Books we definitely wanted to distribute were anything in the STEM field, books to help people understand history and civic responsibility and what it means to be citizens,” said Shaver. “The books are in-line with the Elks mission too and so it was a win-win.” The Library purchased the books and Elks members presented the check to Shaver this week. “It can be difficult to raise funds for books that we’re not going to circulate in-house so we’re appreciative of this donation because now we can check out books off-site,” said Shaver. Library staff will have iPads and laptops on hand while at mobile events so patrons can check out the new books. For more information about Bruton Memorial Library visit plantcitygov.com/library. For more information about the Elks Lodge visit elks.org/ lodges/home.cfm?LodgeNumber=1727.

meet-and-greet with each candidate. City Manager Bill McDaniel extended the offer to Bradford, who had worked for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office for 31 years, a few days later. “My faith in God is deep and my wife and I prayed about it and talked about it and the Lord opened up every single door for me to come here so I took the job,” said Bradford.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

COMMISSIONER MATHIS WINS NEW TERM MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Campaigning for reelection won’t be an issue for Plant City Commissioner and Vice-Mayor Mary Mathis, whose term was set to expire in June. She’ll get another three-year term because no one filed to run against her. The reelection of Mathis, who has been serving as a city commissioner since 2000, follows the unopposed reelection of Commissioner Dodson and the reelection of Commissioner Sparkman after defeating attorney Jeremy Griner last year. Those who wished to challenge Mathis had from noon on Feb 12 to noon on Feb. 16 to file campaign paperwork declaring their candidacy. Since no one did, Mathis will be sworn in to a new term on June 10. Mathis grew up in Plant City and graduated from Plant City High School in 1975. She attended college in Georgia, graduating from Clark College-now known as Clark Atlanta University- in 1980 with a history degree and minor in education. She returned to Plant City, where, after a brief stint in sales at Maas Brothers department store, she secured her first teaching position educating young minds at Turkey Creek Junior High School. After an illustrious 35-year career with the school district, after working as a teacher and administrator at several schools before becoming a supervisor in the district’s transformation department, Mathis retired in 2019. When news came via a phone call by City Clerk Kerri Miller that she her seat was uncontested, she was overwhelmed with a sense of

gratitude for being able to serve the community she loves. “I am extremely honored to serve the community I’ve lived in all my life except for the time I went to college,” said Mathis. She said she couldn’t do it without plenty of support from those closest to her. “I give honor to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and my husband and family for their support.” Residents can often find her husband, Tony, by her side as she dutifully attends events as a municipal representative. When asked what her top priorities are this term, she cited the city’s growing footprint. “Plant City is growing but we need to make sure that as we grow we’re very strategic in how we grow,” she said. When asked why she has served as a city commissioner for more than two decades, first filling the seat vacated by her mentor Sadye Gibbs Martin upon her death, there was no hesitation in her quick response. “I love Plant City,” she said.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

NEWS

City business table, where guests can pick up free samples and business cards from local businesses. REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2024 YOUTH VEGETABLE AND FRUIT SHOW OPTIMISTS CLUB ORATORICAL CONTEST WINNERS ANNOUNCED Three local students participated in the annual Plant City Optimist Club Oratorical Contest on Mon., Feb. 19 and the top two finishers, Durant High School senior Gabby Howell and Plant City High School sophomore Marley Mueller, have advanced to the Zone Six competitions against Lakeland and Winter Haven’s top two finishers on Mar. 25. The theme of this year’s contest was “How to Change the World with Optimism.” The students presented their four to five minute orations in front of an audience of nearly 30 people, including their family and guests as well as club members and contest judges. “It takes a lot of strength for these students to get up in front of strangers and family to give these speeches,” said Jack Holland, Optimist Club Secretary/ Treasurer and event master of ceremonies. “It is rewarding to see the development of these students and their confidence when giving their speeches.” Holland said improved public speaking skills will benefit them in their future careers. The results of the event are: 1st Place: Gabby Howell 2nd Place: Marley Mueller

3rd Place: Jazmin Richarte The top two finishers from the Zone Six competition will go on to the North Florida District’s Southwest Regional Contest for the Tampa Bay Area in April. Regional winners then advance to the North Florida District Finals in Bushnell, where a $2,500 scholarship will be awarded to the District Champion, a $1,500 scholarship for second place and a $1,000 scholarship for third place. A Plant City club representative has won the North Florida District finals competition and received the college scholarship nine times since 2001. Winners have included Jacob Rayburn (2001), Caycee Hampton (2002), Nathan Carson (2008), Amanda Williamson (2009), Mylie Feaster (2011), Jesse Bingham (2012), Emma Poole (2015), Caroline Brummer (2016 and Katelyn Yarbrough (2017). Last year, the two local finalists, Kenley Connell and Kyleigh Elliott, advanced all the way to the North Florida District finals, coming in second and third place, receiving scholarships of $1,500 and $1,000, respectively. For more information about the Optimist Club of Plant City, visit its website at plantcityoptimistclub.org.

PLANT CITY REPRESENTED BY MUELLER AT FLORIDA STATE ELKS YOUTH HOOP SHOOT EVENT Baylor Mueller, 9, competed in the Elks Hoop Shoot event held at the Florida State Elks Youth Camp in Umatilla, where she took home second place in her age division. She’s already practicing for next year’s event. “The Plant City Elks is so proud of Baylor, said Elks Exalted Ruler George Domedion. “She represented us well.” MOSSY HOLLOW MARKET RETURNS TO METALS & NATURE THIS SATURDAY Mossy Hollow Market will be back this Saturday, Feb. 24 at Metals & Nature and is bigger than ever. After a successful first event last year, the market will return with almost twice as many vendors, live music and a mushroom parade headed up by Spotlight Plant City, a potions bar, wishing cauldron and roaming costumed characters. The market will run from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and children under 12 are free with a paid adult admission. The market will also feature a local Plant

Calling all junior gardeners! Registration is open for the 2024 Youth Vegetable and Fruit Show hosted by Hillsborough County Extensions Service. The show brings together kids and teens, age eight through high school seniors, to show off their school, club garden, home or commercial farm grown fruits, vegetables and herbs for a chance to win cash prizes. Entries can be submitted as individual, agriculture club member/4-H member or as a group chapter entry. Judging will be based on appearance of the produce, including its size and quality. The registration deadline is Feb. 23. For more information visit HCFL.gov/Extension.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

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FANCY FARMS MARKET ADDS LUNCH MENU FEATURING AUTHENTIC FAMILY RECIPES

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

In a culinary expansion aimed at tantalizing taste buds beyond their famed strawberry offerings, Fancy Farms Market, located at 5204 Drane Field Rd., is now serving a lunch menu featuring a selection of authentic family recipes. The decision to introduce lunch options comes as a response to growing demand from loyal customers seeking to savor the same quality and authenticity in meals as they have come to expect in the stand’s fresh fruits, strawberry shortcake, cobblers, hand-spun milkshakes, strawberry cookies and bread and homemade jam. As neighboring warehouses were constructed and staffed with employees, she also saw the need to feed these hungry workers. “We always had a goal of serving lunch but my brother had to really encourage me because while we know desserts lunch was a foreign concept”, said owner Kristi Grooms. “My brother

definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone.’ The lunch menu boasts a diverse array of dishes, each crafted with care using recipes passed down from Grooms’ mother DeeDee. From a savory strawberry BBQ pork sandwich on a potato roll to a refreshing strawberry walnut salad (with or without chicken) with Fancy D’s Strawberry Vinaigrette Dressing to a chicken salad croissant, the offerings are sold a la carte or as an entree in Fancy Dee’s Lunch Box, that also includes seasonal fruit, chips, a strawberry cookie and choice of beverage for $15. The lunch menu, which was launched on Jan. 25, is available daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. but customers can grab a chicken salad croissant or salad from a grab-and-go refrigerator until 5:30 p.m. (or until they run out). Grooms said that since the beginning of January her mom had been spending her days in the market’s newly expanded kitchen, tweaking and scaling her cherished recipes to keep

buddies, who tasted it, put the their delicious taste while able to top back on it and then immefeed a crowd and training staff to diately undid the top to taste it replicate the dishes. “Everything is homemade, from again. While they’re working to bottle the special sweet pickle relish the barbecue sauce, customers that we put in the chicken salad to the strawberry barbecue sauce can purchase the salad dressing we put on the pork,” said Grooms. in bottles to take home. The launch of the lunch menu “It’s not just making chicken has already generated excitement salad, it’s making the ingredients among Fancy Farms’ patrons as that go into the recipes that give hundreds of sandwiches, croisthem that homemade taste.” sants and salads are sold weekly. In an effort to reduce waste, Larry and Debbie Williams the marinated strawberries used visited Fancy Farms Market with to make the salad dressing, their daughter Ashley Woods and which would normally be thrown her son Ellis, 8. “We buy our berout, have been incorporated ries and jam here, my son likes it into the recipe for the barbecue on his toast and sandwiches and sauce, which was a collaborawhen we saw the lunch menu we tion between her mother and her decided to try it out,” said Woods. husband, Derek. As her son sat next to her, “The strawberry barbecue devouring the strawberry walnut sauce was really trial and error, one was too tangy, one too sweet, salad with a strawberry milkshake, she smiled. “Everything is now we have it just right,” he said. really fresh and the salad is very “The first bite has strawberry light,” she said. taste then a minute later you get Her son raved about the salad the tang and it hits you and stays dressing. “The salad is amazing with you.” Plant City Observer, 1/4 Page, isFeb. 22sweet and the dressing really He knew they got it right when and fresh,” he said. he gave a sample to one of his

Larry Williams said they now have a favorite lunch spot, a place where you can sit on a picnic table right next to the farm where the berries are grown. “All their quality products are amazing and taste like homemade,” she said. For Grooms, the expansion is a testament of the community’s support of local businesses, especially her regulars that visit every day for a milkshake or every week to hang out and chat. “Never in a million years would I have thought this is where God would have taken us, I just wanted to sell milkshakes and strawberries but He had a totally different plan for us,” said Grooms. “In all we do, we want to keep things tied back to the farm, keep things fresh and maintain these family ties.” Fancy Farms Market is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It’s closed on Sunday. For more information visit fancyfarmsmarket.com or call (813) 478-3486.

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COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024 searched and transported to Orient Road Jail. While at the jail, a strip search, conducted by ORJ staff, revealed a baggie of methamphetamine concealed inside her vagina. She was then charged with possession of methamphetamine and introduction of contraband into a detention facility.

THIS WEEK ON COPS CORNER, PLANT CITY POLICE INVESTIGATE STOLEN VEHICLES, THEFTS AND MORE.

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FEBRUARY 9

GONE IN 60 SECONDS- Stolen Vehicle 2200 Block of Village Park Road An officer met with a victim who reported that sometime in the early morning hours someone stole their 2020 grey Nissan Sentra. PUSHY PLUNDERER- Robbery by Sudden Snatching/Resisting Arrest With Violence (RAWV) 1700 Block of James L. Redman Parkway Multiple officers responded to the business in reference to a snatch and grab robbery where a person, who was later identified, forcefully snatched $13 worth of items from the store clerk and fled. He was taken into custody. NAMED- False Name to Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) Goldfiinch Drive/Thonotosassa Road

An officer conducted a traffic stop on a man riding a bicycle with no lights. The person stated his name and told the officer he had no identification. He then provided another name. Rapid ID was utilized and the person’s true identify was determined (neither of the names he gave). An FCIC/NCIC check was conducted and he was found to have an outstanding warrant out of Polk County. He was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail.

FEBRUARY 10 DRUGS WERE HIDDEN WHERE?- Felony DWLSR/Possession of Meth Arrest 900 Block of S. Alexander Street While conducting a traffic stop on a grey Toyota Camry operating on the roadway with no tag attached, officers determined the driver did not have a valid license and had two prior convictions including a criminal citation issued to her two weeks ago). The woman was placed under arrest,

IN PLAIN SIGHT- Warrant/Felon in Possession Arrest 1500 Block of E. Cherry Street An officer responded to a disturbance and during the investigation and FCIC/NCIC check, it was revealed a man had an active out-of-state fugitive warrant for parole violation out of Wisconsin. The warrant was confirmed and the man was placed under arrest. Inside the man’s vehicle, officers observed a firearm in plain view, which was stolen out of Hillsborough County. NO PRINCE CHARMING- Criminal Mischief/Warrant Arrest 300 Block of Park Springs Circle An officer met with the victim, who reported that her boyfriend had smashed her vehicle’s windshield and broken her apartment window. It was determined that he had an active Violation of Probation (VOP) warrant for burglary. The man had fled prior to PCPD arrival but he was located at a nearby business and placed under arrest. FOUR CASES/ONE CRIME- Theft 4600 Block of State Road 574 An officer met with employees of the business, who reported the theft of four cases of beer.

FEBRUARY 11 NO SMOKING- Burglary 300 Block of S. Frontage Road An officer responded to the business and met with two women who reported their vape pens were taken from their hotel room. The vape pens were later returned and both parties signed waivers of prosecution.

FEBRUARY 12 SNACK ATTACK- Theft 1500 Block of S. Alexander Street An officer made contact with employees at the address, who said two youth left the school then stole items from a nearby convenience store. One youth was arrested.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

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POLICE CHIEF JAMES BRADFORD’S LAST DAY IS MAY 30, LEAVES LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

McDaniel said the same procedure will be followed for a new chief. In fact, he’s already hired Baker Tilly, an executive recruiter for public sector positions, to find qualified candidates to fill the position, which was posted earlier this month on several websites. The first review of applications is scheduled to occur on Mar. 11, with city officials promising a thorough and transparent selection process. City Manager Bill McDaniel is confident that he’ll find the right person for the job. “This community has a lot to offer so I think it’s going to be a very attractive position for candidates,” said McDaniel. “I balance an optimism with the view that I will continue the search until we find the right candidate because getting the right person in that job is more important than getting someone in that position quickly.” Whoever the next police chief will be, he’ll have big shoes to fill. During his tenure, Bradford made several improvements to the department, which have improved officer’s work/life balance and made the workplace safer. He was instrumental in upgrading the department’s tasers and firearms, installing a new computer dispatch and report writing system, acquiring body-worn cameras, garnering city funding to renovate its indoor and outdoor firearms training ranges and adding a crime analyst position to provide support

to detectives and patrol officers working investigations. His dedication to community policing has earned him widespread respect and admiration. He’s quick to defer credit to others, though. “This was the dedication and hard work of a lot of officers and support staff that worked hard to bring those things from concept to fruition,” he said. “All I had to do was provide the vision because they did all the work.” He considers himself truly blessed to get to know members of the community, who are so supportive of the police department, a rare commodity in many cities today. “Whoever takes over this position is going to find a community that loves and supports its first responders, a supportive city government and a team of police officers and support staff that work hard every day to make Plant City safe,” said Bradford. McDaniel has nothing but good things to say about Bradford’s time as police chief. “It’s been great to work with him,” said City Manager Bill McDaniel. “He’s done a good job and you can’t argue with his reasons for leaving.”

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

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Attend the Northeast Plant City Area Master Plan Land Use Map Update Open House to find out. MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Plant City is in the process of updating its Preferred Land Use Scenario Map, adopted as part of the Northeast Master Plan (NEMP) and is inviting the community to attend an open house on Thurs., Feb. 29 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at City Hall to learn about the proposed updates, which are essential to reflect the current economic and environmental factors and keep pace with the emergence of new development trends and shifts in market demand.

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Interactive stations will be set up to engage citizens, answer their questions and gather public input about their opinions on the future of the Northeast Master Plan area. Plant City first developed and adopted the Northeast Plant City Master Plan, which is delineated as northeast Plant City, in 2008. The plan included a “village” style residential growth and development pattern. According to Plan Hillsborough’s website, the reassessment “is designed to target specific locations which have

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

PlantCityObserver.com been noted over the planning horizon to be experiencing growth and development incongruent with the Master Plan.” Over the last several months, city officials have conducted several meetings with its Technical Working Group (stakeholders), ultimately getting their opinion on where more intense development might be located throughout the northeast area. It’s now time for public input, after which time staff will take the information received, combined with planning practices and possible fiscal analysis, and propose options to the city commission in a public workshop to be scheduled in late March or April. “Part of that proposal will include some basic administrative updates to ensure that all of the land uses shown on the plan are land uses that exist within our comprehensive plan as well as updating any land use changes that have occurred since the adoption of the NEMP,” said Robyn Baker, Planning and Zoning Coordinator. Baker said the updates are an exercise in long-range planning. “Long range planning is crucial to the city and its residents

because it allows us to shape the future of our communities and will help guide our decision making to ensure that the needs of our citizens are met in areas such as ensuring a variety of housing types, jobs and that daily services and shopping needs are met,” she said. “It also helps guide the creation of future infrastructure needs including but not limited to water, sewer, roadways, police and fire stations, libraries and parks. This update is an opportunity to engage the public as well as decision makers to establish a shared vision, identify past challenges and accomplishments as well as ensure we are implementing current development trends. All of these things together contribute to the goal of making Plant City a great place to live, work and play.” By 2040, the Planning Commission projects Plant City to have a population of more than 65,000, with much of this residential growth occurring in northeast Plant City. For more information about the meeting visit planhillsborough.org/ne-plant-cityarea-master-plan/ or scan the QR code.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

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NEW PLANT CITY POLICE OFFICERS SWORN IN

Member FDIC

Officers Stephen Falkenstein and Damon Kolanowski have joined PCPD to protect and serve the community.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

In a ceremony filled with pride and commitment, Plant City Police Department (PCPD) welcomed two new officers into its police force last week. The swearing-in ceremony, held at police headquarters, brought together community members, city officials and the officers’ families to mark the beginning of a new chapter in their public service careers. The new officers are:

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Officer Stephen Falkenstein, who was born in Ft. Lauderdale but grew up in the Brandon/Plant City area. A 2015 Plant City High School graduate, he started working in his family’s appliance repair business before realizing that his heart was leading him in another direction. After serving in the Army for four years, he returned to the family business before deciding on a career in law enforcement. “I’ve wanted to work in law enforcement since I was a child and was always in the back of my mind,” he said. Falkenstein, who graduated on Jan. 26 from the Law Enforcement Training Academy at Hillsborough Community College in Ybor City, hopes to be relatable as he works with members of the community. Officer Damon Kolanowski, who has lived in the area since 2013, graduated from Durant High School. As his contract with the

Navy Reserves was coming to an end, he decided to find a career that didn’t require deployments and long stretches of time away from family. “I still had the desire to serve and going into law enforcement was always in the back of my mind,” he said. Kolanowski also graduated on Jan. 26 from the Law Enforcement Training Academy at Hillsborough Community College. He was grateful that PCPD sponsored him at the academy. “I like the idea of serving the community where you live so I didn’t apply to any other department,” he said. “I know one person isn’t going to make a noticeable difference but hopefully I can positively influence even one person.” At the ceremony PCPD Chief James Bradford commented about both officers’ achievements at the police academy. “We were told early on you guys were doing a great job and knowing you were there putting forth your best effort did my heart good,” he said. Falkenstein graduated with the second highest GPA in the class while Kolanowski earned the Merit Award, which goes to the top overall student. Having successfully passed a grueling three-week orientation schedule, the officers will now enter a four-month field training program with veteran officers in the Uniform Patrol division.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

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PLANT CITY NEEDS MORE COMMERCIAL AND LIGHT INDUSTRIAL ED VERNER

Next week there is another public meeting regarding Plant City’s Northeast Masterplan Update (N/E of Park Rd. and I-4). Like all such activities, it is a thankless and necessary task to give some texture to the possible future. I have been involved in such work in the past and appreciate its goals and partial utility. Of course, even before such plans are printed they are already out of date to some degree and will grow more so with each passing week. Back when the current plan was printed manual typewriters and indoor malls were still prevalent, our downtown had a familyowned hardware store, and Blockbuster was still around. Yet despite the march of time and often missed targets, even a flawed roadmap can be better than none at all, and arguably one of the most contentious areas of trying to strike a balance of hoped for land usage in the future is in the area of commercial or light industrial space. For Consideration As To My Perspective • My family has owned farm/grove/pasture lands in that area since before WWII. • Our past businesses there included citrus growing and harvesting operations, cattle pasture under lease, hayfield under lease, irrigated strawberry/row farming, landscape container tree farm, and dirt excavations past and current. • Additionally, I built my home and have raised my family there since 1996.

• Unlike most other large trac acreage owners out there, I will not be relocating elsewhere if I sell to out-of-towners trying to maximize their R.O.I. for far away investors while repaying out-of-state bank loans. Anything I will do or facilitate on my family’s land I will do with an eye to my remaining a neighbor of it for the rest of my days. Thus, for me valuing my return includes the intangibles of preventing the fowling of my nest or my abandoning ship. • Lastly please be aware how my working past also includes the perspective of my being active in and watching the citrus grove lands that once were prominent in Brandon (when parts of Lumsden Road were dirt) fade away, turning into sprawl lacking a community spirit. The two main reasons development of lands to commercial or light industrial use (or admitting to plan for such) can be difficult is not always because we don’t have adequate roads, or that such uses are a drain on city resources and facilities, or that they increase or cause flooding. In fact, such developments pay much more in tax revenues than any cost of services they require. The reasons for difficulty are because of either 1) a powerful nearby jurisdiction that is hungry for those necessities and possessed of clear appreciation of them, or 2) the gigantic disconnect between what people and communities think they need versus reality. Plant City is a fabulous treasure of a town in large part because we have all manner of commercial activity; not because we have peaceful and quiet houses

backing up to our arterial roadways leading us to far away jobs. Every time residents who lament the passing of our rural past and lobby for those lands to be “planned” to become bedroom community housing subdivisions rather than businesses that could create a job or sell a product, those residents are reducing Plant City’s future. They are unwittingly administering a poison of vitamin “Bedroom Community.” Retirees who only want peace and quiet and open roadways have forgotten their past of having a job. They remind me of those who complain of the Amazon jets overhead right after having made an online purchase of golf clubs for delivery to their home. Another hugely important pitfall of “master”-plans is in how they grow to quack and waddle like policy ducks rather than simply being past guideposts of vision casting. Almost immediately the pull the ladder up type opponents of development not to their liking start using legalese like “well it does not comply with the masterplan” when voicing their objections to change. Some treat the plan as if it were cast in marble of law. Emotion often reigns supreme in matters of public debate, and loud voices full of fear sometimes shout

down and megaphone calm reason. They unfairly appear to be heavy voter blocks while the voices of the future have not yet arrived to cast their vote and show gratitude for employment. If you want Plant City to emulate the worst parts of Brandon, then by all means continue demonizing light industrial or commercial development – keep on cheerleading instead for more planned housing communities all unable to generate the revenues needed to process their toilet flushes or the educational needs of their children, and all backing up to precious arterial roadways – keep on believing that what we need are more residents like you than jobs to sustain them. Planners gotta plan, even if they sometimes need directions on how to get to Plant City, or perhaps have never had a job in the private sector since their teens. But just remember how the best protection against any “master”-plan from acting like a policy duck of mandatory sentencing over time is always to make sure you leave room for and support Plant City’s elected officials if/when they make change to it as their future judgment and loyalty to Plant City allows.

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ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

SPORTS

Jeremiah Diaz

By Dylan Tice/Photos courtesy of Emily Diaz Jeremiah is a member of Chris Welbon's Karate Club, located here in Plant City

about 30-45 minutes. I practice my katas and condition to be in shape.

What drew you to the sport of karate? I joined karate to be more athletic and to see what I could push myself to do. I wanted to try things I never thought I could do.

What does it mean to be on The Chris Welbon Karate Club National Tournament Team? I think that it means that you have to be a good competitor. You need to know the fundamentals of karate respect, pushing yourself mentally and physically, and not giving up even though you want to. You have to train even though you don’t want to. You need to push your teammates so they can be better.

How long have you been training? 2 years What is your favorite thing about Karate? I like that I get to hang out with friends at tournaments and the dojo. I get to go to different places to compete. I also like to compete so that when I get old, I can look back and see that my life was meaningful…. all those hours of training meant something. How often are you at the dojo training? I train 4-5 nights a week at the dojo. I also train at home 4 days a week for

What events do you compete in? Kata (forms), Kubudo (weapons-Bo staff-form), and Kumite (sparring). Kumite is my favorite! What’s your proudest karate moment? At the first two tournaments this season, I got 3 gold medals at both events. I never thought I was going

to get those golds. At the second tournament, I felt less pressure to get gold because I was already proud of how I did at the first tournament. My older brother started competing this year and I was proud that he got 2 golds at his first tournament. What karate goal do you have? I want to be a state champion for my division this year and get a big trophy. I want to make the AAU National Team and compete in other countries at world tournaments. I also want to be a black belt so I can become a sensei to teach people. I want to teach people that they can do hard things if they think they can’t. What life lessons has karate taught you?

Karate has taught me how to work hard and with hard work you learn something that can be life-changing. Karate has made me believe in myself

a lot more. I encourage myself so I can see what I am capable of. I have also learned to be a team player. At trainings and competition, I encourage teammates to give them that extra boost to keep going. I have learned to pray more too. I think praying is a big part of karate because Jesus is The One who is always there for us. Our team bible verse is 2 Tim 1:7 (For God did not give us spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind) It is the best verse for karate because things can be scary sometimes but Jesus is here for us and will never leave our side. What advice would you give someone who wanted to start karate? It is going to be really hard at first and you’re going to need to put in extra work to practice. When you do that you will see improvement in yourself and you will be so eager to learn more.

DURANT ADVANCE IN FHSAA 7A REGION 3 PLAYOFFS DYLAN TICE SPORTS WRITER

Entering the game against North Port, Durant was averaging 63.7 points per game, while their opponent was averaging 48.7 per game. The game started slowly as neither team scored in the first two and a half minutes. Juan Lopez got the scoring started for the Cougars by hitting a nice floater. Then North Port’s Elijah Lubsey got it going, making back-to-back shots to give them the lead. The Cougars responded with back-to-back 3-pointers, made by Isaac Correa and Austin White. The first quarter came to an end as Juan Lopez hit a layup off an inbounds pass and then found Wylde Correa for a cutting layup on the very next possession. With no timeouts or fouls sending players to the free-throw line, the quarter flew by and ended with the Cougars up 14-8. The second quarter started with Wylde Correa getting a nice block on North Port. North Port got hot though, responding with back-to-back 3s, with Lubsey making one of them. The score was tied 14-14, but once again Juan Lopez scored, hitting a nice spin move in the paint for the contested layup. Lubsey got called for his third travel of the game. The Cougars missed on the offensive end and North Port regained the lead with a 3, but it wasn’t for long as Caden Bokor found Wylde Correa for the baseline shot and Durant was

back up. North Port responded with another 3 and took the lead 20-18, forcing Durant to call a timeout with 3:51 to cool off the opposing team. Fresh off the timeout, it was just what Durant needed as they went on a scoring frenzy. Isaac found Wylde in the paint for some nice postwork and a score, then Austin White hit a 3 and a fadeaway mid-range on the very next two possessions. Then both teams exchanged free throws heading to half with the Cougars up 26-23. The third quarter started with back-to-back 3s as number 2 for North Port made it and Caden Bokor hit the equalizer for Durant. North Port called a time-out as Lumsey and teammate number 24 got into it, having to get separated. Lumsey got hot after the timeout, scoring 5 points in a row for the team, but Juan Lopez got to the line for Durant and knocked down both. Austin White got to the freethrow line and made both. Isaac Correa then backed down the North Port defender with post moves and scores, followed by his brother Wylde making the reverse lay. The crowd erupted as Juan Lopez stole it, then found Austin White for the baseline 3. A timeout was called and Durant was ahead 43-32 with 1:48 left in the third. Wylde got the block, Juan Lopez brought it into transition and found Ajani Peavy for another 3 for the Cougars. Lumsey did get it going for North Port, scoring 5 points in a row, but the third ended with the

Cougars scoring as Wylde Correa got a buzzer-beater layup! Durant was up 48-39 heading into the final 8 minutes of the game. The fourth quarter started with a takeover from Wylde Correa as he started the quarter off with an and-1, followed by an offensive rebound and putback for the Cougars. Austin White grabbed a rebound, went coast to coast for a layup, missed but Isaac Correa was there for the rebound and drew the foul, going 1-2 from the line. Then more Correa brother content as Wylde found Isaac for the mid-range. Lumsey once again remained the only scorer for North Port, scoring 5 points in a row off two free throws and an and-1. A timeout is called with 3:46 left and Durant up 55-46. Wylde Correa went to the free throw line and went 1-2, followed by Isaac Correac hitting the spin move into the paint for a Cougars layup. North Port responded with a 3 by number 24. Both teams started fouling, sending both offenses to the free-throw line for multiple possessions. A timeout was called with 42 seconds left and the Cougars up 64-53. The game ended after Isaac Correa made the very last shot of the game, with Durant winning 66-53. Durant was defeated by Winter Haven on Tues., Feb. 20, 68-53. Plant City defeated Sarsota’s Riverview High School 58-51 on Tuesday and will play Winter Haven on Fri., Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. for a chance to reach the state semifinals.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY FLAG FOOTBALLER SCORES TRIP TO LAS VEGAS

Ruiz and seven other finalists from throughout the country were nominated for the inaugural NFL Latino Youth Honors award.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

When Plant City High School senior Gabriela Ruiz was named a finalist for the inaugural NFL Latino Youth Honors award, presented by the NFL and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF), she didn’t realize that the reward would include a paid-trip to Las Vegas for Super Bowl LVIII. “It was kinda crazy because once I started getting emails with information about the trip, I realized I was going to Vegas,” she said. “I had no idea what I was getting myself into because it ended up being so much more than I could have imagined.” The all-expenses paid trip included airfare, a three-night stay at the MGM Grand, meals and plenty of entertainment and recognition. The night they arrived, the elite finalists asked questions to a panel of Hispanic NFL employees at Top Golf, where they learned about their journeys to success. The next night, the finalists

attended an awards dinner, where Ruiz received a $1,000 scholarship, and the winner was announced. When wide receiver Peter Gonzalez, a standout football player at Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, was announced as the national winner, Ruiz wasn’t disappointed. “They read our bios and he has done a ton of community service and is committed to a D-1 school,” she said. “I thought he definitely deserved it.” The finalists also attended the Super Bowl Experience, where Ruiz, completely in her element, got the chance to throw footballs, kick field goals and run the 40yard dash. Later that evening, they attended the NFL Honors red carpet event, where she met Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who signed her personalized jersey. “My guy friends at school were really jealous of that,” commented Ruiz. While in Vegas, Ruiz not only learned more about the HHF and what it’s doing to help people of Latin descent, both young

and old, find success but also meet the other finalists and be a part of the breakthrough in women in sports. The NFL Latino Youth Honors award was established to recognize outstanding Hispanic and Latino high school tackle and flag football athletes from around the country for excelling both in the classroom and on the field. Ruiz, who was nominated for the award by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has a 6.9 GPA and is a standout WR/DB on Plant City’s varsity flag football team. During her two years playing varsity, she has achieved 86 flag pulls, eight interceptions on defense and 13 receptions for 126 yards on offense. As a first generation American, she embodies hard work and determination, pushing herself to excel both academically and athletically. She is especially grateful for the Bucs commitment to girls’ flag football. The team recently hosted the Girls Flag Football Preseason Classic, presented by AdventHealth, which brought more than

100 teams and 1,500 student-athletes together to compete in the four-day tournament. Ruiz and her team played two games, winning one and losing one. She said the experience was good practice for the younger girls as they begin varsitylevel play. As this article hits the web and newsstands, Ruiz’ high school flag football career has ended. She played her last game against Durant earlier this week. She just got accepted into FSU and, while the school doesn’t host a collegiate team, she plans to look into joining an intramural league. For Ruiz, while she’ll miss the sport, the lessons learned both on and off the field will stay with her for the rest of her life. “It’s a very family-oriented sport that involves a lot of teamwork and there’s a rush you get playing the game,” she said. “I’ve had so much fun and learned so much these past four years playing flag football.”

PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

AROUND TOWN

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

We asked Plant City: It’s almost Florida Strawberry Festival time! What’s your favorite thing to do at the festival? Bring home caramel apples. Split a donut with my son from the Amish donut business. That place is amazing! Suzanne Penney Calder It will be my first time. We’re doing two concerts. Karen Cambridge Sandy’s Fried Pies! Darryl Schumacher Concerts and enjoying the festivities with family. BrendaDale Jones Concerts and strawberry shortcake. Stefanie Guilley Binnion Strawberry pie from the PC band booth. Belinda Young Seeing friends and eating my way around the festival. DeWayne Howard

Strawberry shortcake from the Transforming Life Church booth. Kyle Judah

Eat everything and watch the one and only Dennis Lee. Keith Crowe Sing and play in the Stringray Chevrolet tent in March. John Parker Definitely watching the kids and the animals (who have worked so hard all year) do their thing in the Livestock shows. Jodie Jewett Bell To run into former classmates… Sara Jackson Cross Chocolate covered bacon every time Haley Riley Go through the buildings where all the arts and crafts are! Adrienne Plyler Middlebrooks

Cindy Griffins chocolate covered strawberries! This year steer show! Polly Martin

Can’t wait til opening day to take my grands. Walk around and eat & ride the Ferris wheel with my grandson. Deanna Shaw Smitty’s hand-dipped buttermilk corn dogs, Fiske fries, Peachy’s doughnuts, Morgan’s Fudge, Netterfields candy or caramel apples. Then walking through the building. Finish it off with strawberry shortcake. Lori Kent Walk around and eat, and go to a concert. Kelsey Sheaye Wynne Love running into all our friends and taking selfies! Tammy Alfonso Chancey

Livestock shows. Lisa Westmiller Johnson Smitty’s corn dogs. Dani Michele Food. Melissa Martinez My childhood. Lynn Nofsker Play the games. Rene Lisa Jimenez Eat and watch people. Barbara Skaggs Ward Avoid it. James Villa

289704-1

Helen Betty Huether, 98, of Plant City, Fla., born on July 29, 1925, in Schenectady, New York, entered into eternal rest on Feb. 16, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

David McFadden David McFadden, 59, resident of Plant City, Fla., was born July 27, 1964, in St. Petersburg, Fla., unfortunately, he was called into eternal rest on Feb. 11, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Charlie J. Layne

Charlie J. Layne, 85, of Tampa, Fla., born on May 29, 1938, in Kentucky, entered into eternal rest on Feb. 13, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Marian Alice Cornett Coleman Marian Alice Cornett Coleman passed away on Feb. 8, 2024 at the age of 83. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Melvin Dewayne Moore Melvin Dewayne Moore, 66, of Tampa, Fla., born on Jan. 4, 1958 in Orlando, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Feb. 12, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Mary Louise JamesonAdams passed away on Feb. 11, 2024 at the age of 87. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

City, Fla., born on Aug. 26, 1946, entered into eternal rest on Feb. 12, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Juan Pablo Reyes Sanchez Juan Pablo Reyes Sanchez, 45, of Homestead, Fla., born on Aug. 10, 1978, in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, entered into eternal rest on Feb. 11, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Charles Lamar Porter Charles Lamar Porter, 84, of Plant City, Fla., born on Dec. 11, 1939, in Tampa, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Feb. 3, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Raymond B. Bailey

James M. Wiggins

James M. Wiggins, 87, of Plant City, Fla., born on Aug. 26, 1936, entered into eternal rest on Feb. 11, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

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Mary Louise Gary Ham Jameson-Adams Gary Ham, 77, of Plant

OBITUARIES

Helen Betty Huether

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

PlantCityObserver.com

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Raymond B. Bailey, 85, of Lakeland, Fla., born on Sept. 19, 1938, in Oppy, Kentucky, entered into eternal rest on Feb. 2, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

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

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YOUR CALENDAR

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

BEST BET 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 AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORIC BUS TOUR

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29

6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tomlin Middle School, 501 N. Woodrow Wilson St. Bring your lawn chairs to Tomlin Middle School’s bandshell to hear great music from our local schools. Featuring performances by Tomlin Middle School, Marshall Middle School and Plant City High School. Food trucks also available.

Plant City is home to more than 25 landmarks, structures and businesses relating to African American history. The three-hour bus tour will take guests to the various sites. Tickets are $30 per person (lunch served afterwards). Seating is limited. For more information call (813) 704-5800.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24

BLUEGRASS NIGHT WITH RICHARD SMITH

10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (midway hours may be different) at 303 BerryFest Pl. Experience the fun of the Florida Strawberry Festival for 11 days and nights, beginning Feb. 29 and running through Mar. 10. There’s something for everyone at this home-town event, featuring exhibits of agriculture, commerce, industry, livestock, fine arts, horticulture and crafts, top-name entertainment, midway rides and dozens of food vendors. Grab a world-famous strawberry shortcake at one of the many local stands seliing the sweet treat.The fabric of American life is woven into the festival through social events, contest, youth developmental programs and more. Central to its focus, the festival continues to preserve and enchance the agricultural heritage and historial legacy of the Florida strawberry and a great time to discover the charm and allure of Plant City. Gate admission is $15 for adults 13 and up and $5 for kids ages 6 through 12. Children five and under are free with paid adult admission. Discounted admission tickets and special ride armbands can also be purchased on select days. For more information visit flstrawberryfestival.com or contact its ticket office at (813) 754-1996.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23

JAZZ NIGHT ON THE LAWN

ST. MARY’S COMMUNITY CHURCH INDOOR YARD SALE

7 a.m. to noon at St. Mary’s Community Church Annex, 904 E. Renfro St. Snag a deal on gently-used clothing, household goods, toys and more at this community yard sale. This event will be held rain or shine. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Krazy Kup Fingerpicking champion Richard Smith forged a career as a solo artist, performing all over the USA, Canada and Europe, Australia and Brazil, releasing solo records, duet and ensemble records and now performs at Krazy Kup for an evening of music in the loft. Tickets are $25 per person.

MOSSY HOLLOW MARKET

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27

2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Metals & Nature, 1323 W. Hwy. 60 Mossy Hollow Market has amped up its popular pop-up vendor market, which will feature 53 vendors, live music (starting at 5 p.m.), a potions bar, wishing cauldron and costumed characters. March of the Mushrooms, headed up by Spotlight Plant City, a local theatre, will perform at 3 p.m. and 4 p.m.. Costumes are encouraged. Tickets are $5 for adults and kids are free.

PLANT CITY GARDEN CLUB HORTICULTURE EXHIBIT DROP-OFF

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Neighborhood Village Building Calling all adult and youth amateur growers. The plant drop-off for the 2024 Florida Strawberry Festival Horticulture Show will be Tues., Feb. 27 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information visit plantcitygardenclub.com.

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

NORTHEAST PLANT CITY MASTER PLAN FUTURE LAND USE MAP UPDATE OPEN HOUSE

5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Plant City City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. Learn more about the proposed updates to the Preferred Future Land Use Scenario Map for the Northeast Master Plan at this open house. The evaluation and update of the Preferred Land Use Scenario Map is essential to reflect the current economic and environmental factors and keep pace with the emergence of new development trends and shifts in market demand. For more information visit planhillsborough. org/ne-plant-city-area-master-plan/. MONDAY, MARCH 4

STRAWBERRY PARADE

1 p.m. at various locations throughout Downtown Plant City More than 30,000 viewers pack the parade route to view the beautiful floats, outstanding musical groups and uniquely distinctive floats that plunge visitors into the glamour and excitement of all things strawberry. The parade route begins on Evers Street, runs north to Reynolds Street and travels west on Reynolds Street, ending at the festival’s red parking lot. To have your event included in our calendar, visit the calendar section of our website at www.PlantCityObserver.com

Spaces filling up are Don’t m fast. iss out! Summ

e starts M r Camp ay 28th !

PLANT CITY FAMILY YMCA 1507 YMCA Pl., Plant City | 813 757 6677

2024

Events Calendar JANUARY

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

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

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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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

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I LOVE PLANT CITY

FORECAST THURSDAY, FEB 22

SUNRISE/SUNSET Sunrise Sunset Thursday, Feb 22

7:00a

6:24p

Friday, Feb 23

6:59a

6:25p

Saturday, Feb 24

6:58a

6:25p

Sunday, Feb 25

6:57a

6:26p

FRIDAY, FEB 23

Monday, Feb 26

6:56a

6:27p

Tuesday, Feb 27

6:55a

6:27p

High: 77 Low: 54 Chance of rain: 63%

Wednesday, Feb 28

6:54a

6:28p

High: 76 Low: 51 Chance of rain: 6%

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, FEB 24 High: 70 Low: 47 Chance of rain: 5%

SUNDAY, FEB 25 High: 72 Low: 46 Chance of rain: 4%

MONDAY, FEB 26 Frank Starmer shot this photo of bee harvesting in Walden Lake.

ONLINE

High: 77 Low: 51 Chance of rain: 6%

28 Districts Across 29 Like some dental floss 1 "You Shook Me All Night 30 Shortcomings Long" band 32 "The Last O.G." network 5 Apiphobe's phobia 35 Bother 9 "I __ confused" 36 *Discussion about what 13 Wintry mess fruit to bake for dessert? 14 Sole 38 In the style of 15 Mountain cat 16 *Frying pans anyone can 39 Spoil 40 Man of many words? use? 41 Wild beasts also called 18 "Oh, please!" 19 Revealing session on Red- wildebeests 42 Water filter brand dit, for short 44 Some surprise hits 20 Christmas song 46 *Fitting motto for Pisa's 21 Shrimp and __ 22 *Group that attends Mass tower keeper? 49 Big name in applesauce together every week? 50 Tirade 25 Treeless plain

5 Showed respect, in a way 6 Sherlock's sister, per a 2020 Netflix film 7 Caribou kin 8 Pt. of GPS 9 "Just Putting It Out There" comedian Nancherla 10 Score keeper? 11 Patti known as the "Godmother of Punk" 12 Clods 13 Place for pampering 17 Ice cream holder 21 Word in many Wi-Fi network names 22 Intel collector 23 Luxury vessel 24 La __ Tar Pits 25 Did the breaststroke, e.g. 26 "Voilà!" 27 Outrageous, as a price 30 Like the Beyond Burger 31 Curling surface 33 Sad 34 Back talk 36 Noses around 37 Wee bit 51 Bath mother 41 Negroni need 54 Way off 55 *Devil on one's shoulder? 43 Family vacay, perhaps 44 "Molto __!" 58 "What __ say?" 45 Had done, as a portrait 59 Catholic leader 46 Diet-friendly 60 Old Dodges 47 Comes out, as an album 61 URL starter 48 __ tag 62 Spy-fi country 49 Namesake of a speed 63 Decisive defeat, and a two-word hint to the answers ratio 51 List that may be accessed to the starred clues by scanning a QR code 52 One of a kind Down 53 Rx writers 1 Grad 2 Gloria Estefan's birthplace 55 PC core 56 Grammy winners __ 3 ISP option Lonely Boys 4 "Things'll turn around, 57 "As I see it" shorthand you'll see"

Feb.. 24

Full

Mar. 3 3rd Qtr.

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

Mar. 10 New

Mar.. 17 1st Qtr.

MONTH TO DATE:

2.44 in.

3.36 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

FEB. AVERAGE:

8.26 in.

2.33 in.

STRAWBERRIES Shipping point: Florida $16.00-$18.00

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

Send your photo submissions to staff writer Michelle Caceres at michelle@plantcityobserver. com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024

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