03.07.24

CHURCH HOSTS ANNUAL

Hope Lutheran Church congregation’s human Care Ministry Team hosted its annual Teddy Bear Sunday Members and friends were encouraged to bring a new teddy bear to church with them on the Sunday closest to Valentine’s Day.

Over the years, they’ve donated the bears to Plant City Police and Fire Departments, Florida Baptist Children’s Home, Hillsborough County Sheri ’s O ce, Hope members serving in Iraq and Afghanistan to share with fellow soldiers and area children

This year, church members donated more than 100 bears to their Hispanic Ministry Pastor Rev. John Cobos to share the bears with children in the Plant City Hispanic community.

Each bear is tagged with a special message from Hope and the words of John 3:16 to remind the recipient of God’s neverfailing love for them.

“These bears are a special way for us to help children who are going through a di cult time,” said Sandy Howell, Hope’s Human Care Ministry Team Leader.

HERRING STREET BRICK RESTORATION PROJECT

With sameday appointments, individualized care, and a welcoming atmosphere, Dr. Humam Alabsi and his team at our Plant City location make booking visits for your kids easy and convenient.

Alabsi, MD Pediatrics

“Nothing is more enriching than being part of a

PLANT CITY GARDEN CLUB SCHOLARSHIPS

The Plant City Garden Club will award two $1,000 scholarships in May. To be eligible for consideration, students must be a local high school senior majoring in one of the following six elds of study: Biology, Botany, Conservation and/or Forestry, Environmental Studies, Horticulture or Landscape Design.

Scholarship information and application forms are available online at plantcitygardenclub.com. In addition to the application, students must submit a personal letter describing their background, goals, commitment to their chosen career and how their goals support the Plant City Garden Club’s mission statement, two letters of recommendation from instructors/professors and school transcripts. The application deadline is May 1.

Last week, the city commission authorized the city manager to execute an agreement with NJandlal Maintenance Services of Brandon, LLC, for the Herring Street Brick Restoration Project, valued at $60,420. Work is expected to begin this month, which will include removing and palletizing existing bricks, regrading and installation of base material and installation of existing bricks. The road will be closed for approximately two weeks during the repairs.

CITY EMPLOYEES RECEIVE RECOGNITION

Solid Waste Refuse Collector Keith Brown, Solid Waste Equipment Operator Lee Perez and Stormwater Operators Todd Sparkman and Reginald Flowers all received City Manager coins for going above and beyond the call of duty. Brown tackled and completed a large container yard project by himself in a single day and Perez received accolades from a customer for the thorough manner in which he picked up a large brush pile. A local resident thanked Sparkman and Flowers, who while completing a street repair, took the time to answer an inquisitive child’s many questions about the work they were doing.

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL PARADE, THAT’S A WRAP!

The 2024 Strawberry Festival Grand Parade, led by grand Marshals Fred and Tammy Johnson, drew crowds along city streets and featured elementary, middle and high schools, scout troops, dance teams, oats and more.

Prior to the parade Governor Ron DeSantis gave remarks alongside Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody at the Florida Strawberry Festival luncheon at Hillsborough Community College’s Plant City campus. He spoke of his appreciation for the state’s agricultural impact and community spirit. “One of the values of a festival like this is it gives families an

a lot of strong community bonds and is an example of a successful state.”

For Plant City residents Kevin and Kim Davis, who moved into a historic house in downtown six months ago, it was their rst time attending the parade, which marched right by their front door. “It was awesome, we loved it,” said Kevin Davis. “I liked the music and the energy.”

His wife liked the glitz and glam. “It was cool seeing the strawberry queen and court,” she said.

The parade ended at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds, where trophies and ribbons were awarded to the following

Grand Marshal Trophy: Greenlife Environmental

Business/Commercial Division:

1st Place- International Showmen Association

2nd Place- Rough Riders 3rd Place- 1916/Dukes Brewhouse

Antique Division:

1st Place- Practical Coating 2nd Place- Haynes Motorsports 3rd Place- C & C Services

Church Division:

Special Features:

Place- Rising Family Theater

Place- Mariachi Band

Place- 66th Anniversary

FEBRUARY 23

A KITCHEN REMODEL- Residential Burglary

3000 Block of Radiant Mountain Drive

An o cer met with a homebuilder’s representative, who reported that cabinets, valued at $1,000, were stolen from an unsecured home under construction.

THE WRONG COKE- DUI Arrest/ Possession of Cocaine

1600 Block of West Reynolds Street

An o cer conducted a tra c stop on a vehicle. The driver was arrested, a search revealed a small clear plastic baggie containing white powder in the man’s wallet. The substance was eld-tested and tested positive for cocaine. In addition to DUI, the man was charged with possession of cocaine and DWLSR.

FEBRUARY 24

TOOL TIME- Structure Burglary

200 Block of W. Alexander Street

An o cer responded to a business and met with an employee who reported that an unknown person cut and removed locks to four shipping containers. A Rigid cordless drill, skill saw, a metal door and the four locks were stolen.

NO FUN IN THE SUN- Warrant Arrest

1000 Block of Ashentree Drive

An o cer responded to the address to make contact with a person who had an active warrant out for their arrest. The man, who was relaxing on a couch, was positively identi ed and the warrant, for failing to appear in court, was con rmed. He was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail.

FEBRUARY 25

CARTED OFF- Felony Petit Theft/Tres-

pass After Warning

2600 Block of James L. Redman Parkway

An o cer responded to the business and met with a member of its loss prevention team, who stated that a woman loaded up two shopping carts full of groceries and entered the self-checkout line. She failed to scan $169.50 worth of merchandise and passed all points of sale. She was also previously trespassed from the store. The woman was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail.

CARTED OFF-PART TWO- Shoplifting

Arrest

2600 Block of James L. Redman Parkway

O cers met loss prevention…again….in reference to a theft of $186.73 worth of merchandise by a man who attempted to ee, but was located and arrested by responding o cers. All property was recovered and returned to the store. The man had several prior convictions, enhancing the theft to a felony. He was transported to Orient Road Jail.

FEBRUARY 27

DRUG OUT- Possession of Meth Arrest

4200 Block of National Guard Drive

An o cer was conducting a check of the property and observed a man in a tent located on the property. The man was placed under arrest for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine).

DOODIE FREE- Theft

1400 Block of S. Collins Street

An o cer responded to a business and met with an employee who advised that there had been a theft of two packages of Luv’s diapers, valued at $17.18.

NO LICENSE TO DRIVE- Criminal Citation

700 Block of S. Maryland Avenue

While conducting a tra c enforcement, an o cer issued a woman a criminal citation for driving with license suspended (DWLS).

FEBRUARY 28

CAR TROUBLES- Grand Theft Auto

400 Block of Renfro Street

An o cer responded to the address in reference to a delayed grand theft auto complaint. A man advised that while at an unknown house his vehicle was taken without permission.

FEBRUARY 29

JUST CHILLIN’- Grand Theft

2000 Block of Victorious Falls Avenue

An o cer responded to the address and met a man who reported an unknown person took a Carrier Residential AC unit, valued at $2,000.

THREE STRIKES- DUI Arrest

1800 Block of James L. Redman Parkway

O cers responded to the business, in reference to a tra c crash with a possible dispute.

O cers saw a black Ford F250 parked near a curb and a man on the ground behind the vehicle, bleeding from his face and mouth area, with another man kneeling next to him and speaking with him. Witnesses told ofcers that the kneeling man had been driving the truck when it entered the parking lot and struck a vehicle. He was asked to perform a eld sobriety test, which he performed unsatisfactorily and later refused to complete. He was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail. A criminal history revealed he had two prior DUI convictions, enhancing the charge.

THE PREFERRED LAND USE SCENARIO MAP, PART OF THE NORTHEAST PLANT CITY AREA MASTER PLAN, SET TO CHANGE

The update is being made because over time emerging development patterns and changes in market demand have prompted the need to review and reassess the appropriateness of the land use patterns shown on the map, which was created in 2008.

Executive Planner Yeneka Mills said the map shows industrial land uses along I-4 and 92, mixed uses along Alexander Street and industrial in the northwestern corner of the map. The dots placed on the map will help decision makers know what’s important to residents. “We’re trying to get as much feedback as possible so we can take that to the city commission so they can make an informed decision,” she said.

While some residents put their dots on the map, Nancy Martin, who lives on Mdway Road, kept her dots in her hand. “I’m not putting any of my dots on the map because I don’t want any of it,” she said. She moved to her one-acre piece of heaven in 2020. “I moved to live out in the country and it’s not the country anymore,” she said.

Executive Planner Wade Reynolds attended to talk to residents about transportation projects on Plant City’s and Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) capital improvement plan. He also showed a map detailing projects that are scheduled/ongoing within the next ve years, from road resurfacing to safety improvements like signage, striping, lighting and crosswalks.

Attendees were also able to write comments on post-it notes. Comments included: sound bu ering I4 industrial, the need for a tra c light at the intersections of S. Frontage and Charlie Taylor Roads and Park and Sam Allen Roads, incorporating a mixture of uses at di erent price ranges, turning county roads into city roads, having a 45 mph speed limit on E. Knights Gri n Road and expanding the city boundary north on 39 to Bruton Road. One attendee wrote: Stop! We don’t need more development.

For more information about the Northeast Plant City Area Master Plan Preferred Land Use Scenario Map Update visit planhillsborough.org/ne-plant-cityarea-master-plan/.

MICHELLE CACERES

STAFF WRITER

PLANT CITY YOUTH COMMISSION VISITS STATE CAPITOL, MEETS LEGISLATORS

Youth got an up close look at how government runs, and were inspired because of it.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Rising before the sun typically isn’t on any teenager’s to-do list but for seven members of Plant City’s Youth Leadership Commission, a trip to Florida’s capitol city for a legislative tour was well worth the missed sleep.

The group met at City Hall last Thursday, along with Commissioner Jason Jones and Wesley Joyner, at 5:30 a.m. for the four-hour drive to Tallahassee, the home of Florida’s Executive, Judicial and Legislative branches of state government.

“They’ve learned all about state government, performed a mock session, were recognized on both the House and Senate oors, spoke with Senator Danny Burgess, Representative Danny Alvarez and Attorney General Ashley Moody,” said Jones.

The eld trip came about after District 4 Commissioner Michael Owen met with the youth committee to discuss how city and county governments interact, which led to questions about how state issues applied to Plant City. “We saw that we needed to take them to Tallahassee so we made a few phone calls to our great local legislators

and were able to put together the trip,” said Jones.

During the tour, Burgess shared that he had been a member of the City of Zephyrhills Youth Council in his teens.

“This program builds leadership skills and provides valuable insights into local government,” he said. “It’s great to see kids continue to participate in these important programs.”

Moody also took time out of her busy schedule to meet with the youth in her of-

ce. She showed them a plaque on the wall with Plant City’s logo on it and sharing how proud she was to be from Plant City.

“She told them anything was possible and that they can achieve anything and you could see it in their eyes, you could see that sinking it,” said Jones. “It was de nitely one of the inspiring moments.”

A few youth commissioners shared their favorite parts of the trip and takeaways:

Lyla Bent, a junior at Durant High School: “We met so many leaders and see how Florida’s government was created.

Ashley Moody showed us that any of us can have an impact in our local community and hearing that really inspired me. I’m heavily involved in FFA and I’d like to one

day become an agricultural lawyer and ght for our farmers and agriculturalists. We need to focus on this community as a whole and agriculture as a whole, nding a balance supporting growth and supporting our farmers. When I went to the capitol to learn, I was able to talk to legislators about how we need to focus on growing together and supporting our community.”

Bailey Polk, a senior at Strawberry Crest High School: “Ashley Moody told us she was proud of us and that we could be the next leaders of our generation. It was very impactful. We also got to go into a room and do a mock session. We debated whether the state bird should be changed from a mockingbird to a amingo. I spoke out against it because it was going to cost $5,000 to change it. I said we should use the funding for other projects. We all got to push buttons on the desk for whether we agreed or disagreed. We also got to meet so many people. Being on the youth committee has taught me leadership skills and how to communicate better with people.”

Maddie Zappe, a junior at Plant City High School: “I’ve always wanted to do something in government but didn’t think it was possible. Ashley Moody was so personable

and she put it in my mind that I shouldn’t let anything stop me. One day me or someone in my group can be in her shoes.”

Khalid Polk, a junior at Armwood High School: “One thing that stood out to me was in the House of Representatives you saw the messiness of politics and how legislators disagree and argue but still get things done. In society we just see the arguing and think nothing’s getting done but the arguing gets them to a place where they need to be and a ect change. While there we saw two bills pass. I want to be a lawyer and when we went to the Old Capitol and saw photos of former attorney generals there have been no black attorney generals. Ashley Moody is the second woman attorney general and she’s from Plant City. If she can do it, then maybe there’s a chance that one day in the future I could reach that goal. This trip de nitely made an impact on me.”

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL SPECIAL SMILES DAY BRINGS JOY TO SPECIAL GUESTS

Festival guests with special needs enjoyed a sensory-considerate festival experience.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Relatively speaking, it was a pretty quiet morning at the Florida Strawberry Festival on Friday, March 1.

That’s not to say there weren’t plenty of people having a good time but gone were the ashing lights, blaring music and announcements over the loudspeakers. Special Smiles Day, in its second year, brought a sensory-friendly environment so thousands of adults and children with special needs could enjoy a less-crowded, and quieter, festival experience.

The event was the brainchild of Florida Strawberry Festival President Kyle Robinson, who pitched the idea to his fellow Plant City Rotarians and the Strawberry Festival Board. “As soon as he brought it to the Rotary Board we immediately fell in love with it,” said Rotarian John Haney.

“The Rotary has the ability to sponsor this event and pull in the needed volunteers, it’s a great partnership between the Festival and the Rotary.”

The event, which ran from 9 a.m. to noon and gave free gate admission to Special Smiles VIPs and one guest, free rides and food vouchers, has grown expo-

Lissette Lopez, a teacher at The Movement School in Pinellas County, attended the event last year with her son Aiden, 13. He had so much fun that she told her principal and this year, all 13 students at the school, including its sta , attended the event. The students all wore t-shirts they tie-dyed for the occasion.

It was easy to see why the event was named Special Smiles Day. As Aiden, who has cerebral palsy and autism, rode Raptor Run with his mom, a wide smile spread across his face. “He was screaming from excitement, I was screaming from nausea,” joked mom.

Aiden, while being helped back into his wheelchair, expressed his love of rides. “That was awesome,” he said. “I was ying like Buzz Lightyear, to in nity and beyond.”

School principal Terri Bedgood, who beamed with pride at her students, couldn’t be more appreciative for the experience.

“Sometimes just being next to a person let alone in a crowd with noise and lights, it can overstimulate them and send them to shutdown world,” she said. “To have a place where they can feel safe and be able

Last week, the City Commission of Plant City approved two alternate development plans proposed by Plant City Development Group LLC for the former downtown Plant City Post O ce, giving the developer the exibility to develop either of the two alternatives.

Plant City Development Group LLC ofcers Stephen Katz and Sandy Marks detailed the two plans, which will replace the previously approved development plans that the city commission green-lighted on Jan. 24, 2022. Both options will give the developer the exibility to build either of the two alternatives at their discretion.

The plan will bring residential units to downtown (144 units for Option A and 156 units for Option B) featuring studio, one and two bedroom units, some with balconies, ranging from 548 to 996 squarefeet. The project will feature ground oor parking spaces with additional parking on the second oor, an 1,800 square-foot swimming pool on the third oor, amenities throughout and an approximate 2,500 square-foot sky bar/restaurant on the sixth oor that will be open to the public with a dedicated elevating whisking visitors to the establishment.

The plans are similar in design with the exception of one having a crosswalk and units over Thomas Street and the other having an architectural feature but no ac-

cess across Thomas Street connecting the two buildings.

The site, located at 301 W. Reynolds St., had been a U.S. Post O ce (USPS) until it closed in 2013 due to health and safety concerns. The City purchased the property from the USPS in 2018.

“This is part of our overall plan to increase the number of people living in downtown,” said City Manager Bill McDaniel. “The more people you have in a residential setting in downtown, the stronger the downtown area becomes.”

Katz said the city’s support has been key. “The City of Plant City has been a great partner to work with on this project,” he said. “I’m excited to bring this project to Downtown.”

Mayor Nate Kilton pointedly asked the men what has changed since the rst development plans were improved, especially in this environment of high interest rates, increased construction costs and skittish construction lenders. Both men noted the Federal Reserve has indicated rates have peaked. ‘We didn’t want to go into this transaction in an upward rate rising environment and knowing it’s peaked is really the key,” said Marks.

During the presentation, Katz and Marks estimated that it would like to break ground in the fourth quarter of 2024 with a construction timeline of 18 to 20 months.

“This will be our rst project in Plant City and will not be our last,” said Katz. “Plant City has tremendous opportunity and we’d like to be a part of it.”

DR. TANDRIA CALLINS WINS BIG ON ‘THE PRICE IS RIGHT’

Callins won prizes totaling nearly $60,000.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

When Pastor Calvin Callins and his wife Dr. Tandria Callins took a trip to California for the Grammy Awards last month, they thought it would be fun to see if they could get tickets to The Price is Right.

“We always wanted to attend a show and since we were already going to be in L.A. we decided to try to get tickets,” said Tandria.

Not only did they score tickets to a Feb. 5 taping, Tandria got called to “come on down” but she had to keep the secret of how it turned out until the show aired Mar. 5. “We couldn’t say anything or we would have forfeited our winnings,” she said.

Wearing t-shirts designed by Elite Logos, they both looked the part of contestants.

A $701 bid on a set of Meyer Housewares pots and pans and year subscription of Eggland’s Best eggs won her the prize and the chance to stand next to host Drew Carey and win another prize. Her luck continued when she played Double Prices, correctly selecting the price of a trip to Vietnam valued at $12,680. “I was just screaming and jumping up and down,” said Tandria.

A spin of the big wheel landed her in the nal showcase. Her showcase included a set of kitchen appliances, a trip to Playa Del Carmen and a 2024 Volkswagon Taos SUV. Her bid was $42,500. “I really thought it was $45,000 but I bid a little lower because I didn’t want to go over,” she said.

The actual cost of her showcase was $45,381. When Carey announced that the other showcase contestant went over, Tandria couldn’t believe it. “I was in shock and then when I realized what happened that’s when I ran o the stage to my husband and then we both ran and got in the car,” she said.

They almost didn’t attend the taping. “It was raining in L.A. and we weren’t going to go because the weather was so bad,” she said. “We decided to go and had to be there by 8:30 a.m., we arrived at 8:29 a.m.”

This was the couple’s second attempt to attend a show. During another trip to California, Tandria got sick and couldn’t make it.

The happy couple is ecstatic about their prizes, which will be shipped to them in the next several months. They’re already planning the trips. They’ll travel to Vietnam in Dec. to celebrate her 50th birthday. They already had a trip planned to a Sandals resort but are giving that trip to their daughter for her wedding.

Before attending the taping, Tandria told her husband that whatever she won she’d give to him, since his birthday was Feb. 3. “After I won everything, I told him he could have all the pots,” she joked.

As the chef in the family, he’s okay with that. “I don’t know what I’m going to cook rst,” he said.

All kidding aside, he said he had a feeling when he walked into the theater where it was taped that they were going to call his wife’s name and she was going to win. “I’m her biggest supporter so it was awesome to let her be in the spotlight and be her cheerleader,” he said.

“It didn’t matter who got picked because we’re both winners,” said Dr. Callins.

PCPD OFFICERS RECOGNIZED FOR SAVING LIVES WITH AED EQUIPMENT

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 356,000 people have an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the United States every year, and about 60% to 80% of them die before reaching the hospital.

Thanks to the Plant City Rotary Club’s generous donation of 52 automated external de brillators (AEDs), that were placed in each patrol vehicle last year, and the quick reaction of several well-trained Plant City police o cers, two Plant City residents, whose names were not released, lived to tell the tale of their cardiac arrests.

In one instance, O cers Dustin Colkmire and Francisco Rosales responded to a call on Dec. 17 that an elderly woman was thought to have passed away at the Madison Park Road apartment complex. Upon arriving on the scene, they assessed the situation and decided to administer CPR, which ultimately saved the life of the woman, who was taken to the hospital for additional care and treatment. Colkmire and Rosales were awarded the Plant City Police Department (PCPD) LIfe Saving Award for their act of service.

In another instance during the same shift, the same o cers once again responded to a call about a possible drug overdose. When they arrived at the scene, near the 2000 block of Airport Road, they located the woman, who was unresponsive and not breathing. Once again, they decided to administer CPR.

“Their quick assessment of the situation and their decision to administer CPR ultimately saved the life of the individuals,” PCPD Captain Van Duyne said. “Because of their dedication and commitment, the

residents were able to be taken to the appropriate facility for additional care and attention. Their actions make us proud to have them as members of the Plant City Police Department.”

Last year’s AED donation, valued at $92,000, was the second time in the past nine years that the Rotary Club had provided PCPD with the lifesaving euipment.

Past-President Shawn Jemison said that when PCPD Chief James Bradford came to the group last year and told them the units were outdated and could no longer be serviced, the organization was quick to replace them.

“We had a fellow Rotarian whose life had been saved by an AED so it was something we witnessed rstand,” said Jemison. “In talking with Chief Bradford we could see how imperitive it was for o cers to have them in their patrol vehicles because they’re usually on-site before paramedics can arrive.”

Jemison is appreciative of the community’s support of its fundraisers that made the donation possible. “This is the reason we do it,” he said. “We’re giving back to make sure if and when o cers are in that life-saving situation, they have the equipment to save lives, like they did in December.”

At the awards ceremony where Colkmire and Rosales were recognized, Sergeant Chad Carpenter, Corporal Christian Lopez and O cers John Amole, Dustin Colkmire, Austin Johnson, Cleefton Pierre and Francisco Rosales were awarded the PCPD Certi cate of Employee Recognition for intervening in an incident where a citizen was in distress and wanted to take her own life.

Well, done, o cers.

PLANT CITY POLICE MAKE ARREST IN FEB.

Plant City police have arrested Abraham Melendez, 22, in connection to the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old boy that occurred on Thursday, Feb. 29.

According to police, Melendez, the 14-year-old boy and others drove to the area of West House Street and Lakewood Avenue at approximately 1 a.m. with plans to commit a robbery. During the robbery attempt, the 14-year-old boy and an 18-year-old Hispanic male were shot. Melendez then drove them to South Florida Baptist Hospital.

The boy died from a gunshot wound to his upper body. The second gunshot victim sustained an injury to his upper body as well, and is being treated at this time. Detectives charged Melendez with several crimes, including murder in the second-degree by a person other than a person engaged in a robbery and tampering with physical evidence.

He was booked into the Falkenburg Road Jail, where he is currently being held without bond.

“Our hearts go out to the family of the two individuals, our hearts break for them,” said PCPD Captain Al Van Duyne. “The loss of any life, let alone a young person, is tragic but incidents such as these provide the motivation needed to continue our hard work in bringing all people responsible to justice.”

Van Duyne said the investigation is still active and police are still searching for and investigating any new leads. Anyone with information is urged to contact PCPD Sergeant Gerald Baker at (813) 757-9200. Information may be provided anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-TIPS or crimestopperstb.com. Tipsters could be eligible for a cash reward up to $5,000.

LIBBY HOPKINS STAFF WRITER

REVAMPED SUBARU CROSSTREK IS A

STEAL

Since debuting more than a decade ago, it is Subaru’s fastest-selling compact SUV. A record 155,142 Crosstreks hit the road in 2022. We can expect additional records to be broken by the totally redesigned ride this year.

For 2024, the Crosstrek has preserved the engine, transmission and other mechanical components, but otherwise is like an almost-new SUV. Under the hood resides a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder BOXER engine putting out 152 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 145 pounds-feet of torque @ 4000 rpm. It is mated to a continuous variable transmission with 8-speed manual mode and option of steering-wheel paddle shifters. The four-wheel independent MacPherson-type strut front and a double wishbone rear suspension soak up bumps and maintain stability in the standard and revised symmetrical all-wheel-drive ride. Borrowed from the WRX, and understandably so, is the dual-pinion electric powerassist steering, which promptly responds at the slightest turn. The X-Mode with hill descent control allows the driver to pick

snow, dirt, deep snow and mud modes for any untoward road/weather conditions. And yes, we will take the 8.7-inch ground clearance any day.

Up front, the new frameless hexagonal grille in black nish is anked by compact LED steering-responsive headlights. Step into the sizeable cabin and your eyes quickly glance at the huge 11.6-inch tabletstyle touch screen ( rst for Crosstrek) to control navigation, audio and phone along with circular knobs. The 60/40-split rear-seat passengers have plenty of room to stretch their legs. Go for the optional $2,245 blind spot detection/rear cross tra c alert system, power moon roof and 10-way power driver seat. It is money well spent. Also standard are heated front seats, dual auto a/c, 4.2-inch instrument cluster, six speakers, retractable cargo cover, push-button start and a wireless phone charger.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, driver knee airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, vehicle dynamics control, stability and traction system, rearview camera, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running

lights are standard. The updated Eyesight assist monitor, which features lane departure warning and keep assist, pre-collision brakes and active cruise control, ensures that the driver maintains a straight path.

Whether you are an o -roader or not, the overhauled Crosstrek with its standard Subaru symmetrical all-wheel-drive capabilities will serve the purpose. The small and solid SUV is not just agile, cool and attractive but also inexpensive at just $30k as average new car prices hover around $48k.

CROSSTREK PREMIUM

Tires: 225/60R17

Wheelbase: 105.1 inches

Length: 176.4 inches

Width: 70.9 inches

Height: 63 inches

Weight: 3,277 pounds

Fuel capacity: 16.6 gallons

City: 27 mpg; highway, 34 mpg

Base price: $26,195

Price as tested: $29,685

Web site: www.subaru.com

Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabay.com and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.

NITISH S. RELE

Member FDIC

SPORTS

WEEK

ATHLETE OF THE

Trae’Veon

Smith

By Dylan Tice Photos courtesy of Mike Mohler

Trae’Veon Smith, a multi-sport athlete, is a senior at Plant City High School. This week. We interview Trae’Veon on being part of the school’s track team.

How long have you been doing Track?

This year will make it my 2nd

What got you into doing track?

I was the fastest on my football team last year, coach Martucci came out, talked to me, and ever since just self-explanatory

What’s your favorite thing about track?

Seeing my time and others’ times getting better and better, getting me and others excited to race

How do you train for this sport?

I never had a professional trainer, just go to practice, work on things, when it’s time to compete I run

What’s your favorite memory so far in track?

Running a 10.5 last year breaking my school record

Who keeps you the most motivated to do your very best?

My coach Martucci and every other coach that’s out there, they all motivate me and let me know what’s real and what’s not, no matter if I do good or bad they let me know the truth on whatever.

What’s something coach Drew has taught, that has stuck with you?

He taught me that no matter how hard the task is just do it and do your best no matter what never give up

Who’s your favorite athlete of all time?

Tom Brady. He was a beast anywhere he went and left a permanent mark.

If you’re not doing track, what are you doing in your free time?

Working my 9-5

What’s your top-3 go to songs to get you hyped before your race?

Mariah the scientist - Always n Forever Scy jimm - Letter to the industry Rod Wave - Long journey

CHEVELLE HALLBACK DEFIES ODDS AND BECOMES WORLD CHAMPION AGAIN

Her key to success includes prayer, faith, hard work, discipline and consistency.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Plant City born Chevelle “Fists of Steel” Hallback this weekend proved that age is just a number. The 52-yearold returned to the ring last weekend and beat 27-year-old Yamila “La Maquinita” Reynoso of Buenos Aires, Argentina, to claim the National Boxing Association (NBA) welterweight title.

During the heated battle, which lasted ten rounds, each ghter landed powerful blows. The judges’ scores were 98-92, 97-93 and 96-94, all in favor of Hallback by unanimous decision.

Hallback is now a seven-time world champion, winning titles in the featherweight, super featherweight, lightweight and welterweight divisions with a record of 34-9-2 with thirteen knockouts.

The win makes her the oldest ghter to win a world title championship in professional boxing, a feat that could potentially have her record featured in Guinness Book of World Records.

She was inspired to become a boxer after watching Muhammad Ali and Leon Spinks 2 battle it out for the World Boxing Association (WBA) heavyweight title. “I knew then I would be great at it and love it,” she said. “I knew when I started

that great things would come from it and that God was going to use boxing as an avenue and a platform for me to do great things and reach people all over the world to motivate and encourage them.”

Hallback’s rst big win came on March 6, 1998, when she defeated veteran Bonnie Canino to take a newly created Women’s International Boxing Federation (WIBF) Intercontinental Super Featherweight title.

Now, more than 26 years later, she continues to prove herself, in and out of the ring. “Don’t let anyone or anything, especially age, de ne you,” said Hallback. “If you are mentally and physically capable of doing anything you want to, then DO IT.”

For her, prayer, faith, hard work, discipline and consistency are the keys to success. “Take care of yourself, live for today and don’t stress about tomorrow because tomorrow is not promised anyways,” she said. “It’s important each of us be the best version of ourselves.”

Hallback plans to take a little time o to relax her body and mind, but just for a little while. “I’m going to see what doors open up for me,” she said.

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

We asked Plant City: What’s your favorite Southern saying that folks from up north don’t understand?

As a Plant City girl now living in Massachusetts, they all really look funny at me when I say “I’ve known them since they were knee high to a grasshopper” or when we go into a store I tell my friends to grab a buggy and they look at me like I’ve got 7 heads!

Emily Cowper

You hear me!

Donna Keller Elliott

Mind your manners.

David Johnson

I reckon.

Joan Wallace Bednar

Fixin to do something.

Kyle Weronik

All y’all.

Stacy Sydenham

Fixing to… Cyndee McQuaig Black

Hotter than a June bride in a feather bed!

Delicia C Wallnofer

GO HOME! They just don’t seem to get it.

J.R. Pitts

Not a saying, but I think Northerners don’t understand that Southerners speak the loudest when they don’t say a word.

Aubergine Lemon

Fair to middlin’.

Amber Ward

Fixing…just plain ole fixin….Fixin to go.. Fixin to do dat…Fixin some groceries… Fixin to call ya…Where ya’ll Fixin to go…

Stepheny Scott Siverling

“Madder than a wet hen” “Til the cows come home” and “Hold your horses.” My Maine family cracks up everytime at my animal sayings. I honestly thought everyone said those haha.

Sara Simpson

A little powder and a little paint help you look like what you ain’t…

Teresa Cochran Bailey

Don’t let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya.

Je rey Morrison

My in-laws are from the north and I have asked one of them one time “Who carries her to church?” They totally didn’t know what I meant and then it dawned on me. I had to reword it and ask “Who takes her to church?”

Steve Jones

Warshin powders.

Taylane Hudson Morgan

“Hold…your…horses!” I say that to my kids.

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Raquel Rubio

Go cut me a switch…

Ben Copeland

Crack the window.

Jennifer Tulloh

My Gran used to say, “Fine as a frog’s hair!”

Heather Biggs Galloway

I made a pallet and fell asleep Tuesday night so was sore at work yesterday. The northerners wanted to know why I slept on wood.

Jessica Taylor

Don’t have a pot to pee in or a window to throw it out of, bless their heart.

Kayla Butler

Patsy Berry

Patsy Berry, 84, of Plant City, Fla., born in Danville, Illinois on July 6, 1939, entered into eternal rest on Mar. 2, 2024. She was a member of First Baptist Church Plant City, Junior Women’s Club of Plant City, and a Girl Scout Leader. She was a strong advocate of the Strawberry Festival in many arenas, and a former Festival First Lady. She loved her family dearly and enjoyed knitting, sewing, needlepoint, cooking, reading, and spending time in the Georgia mountains. She was preceded in death by her husband, Al Berry; brother, Sonny; and sister, Sandy. She is survived by daughters, Kellie Lee Corry (Craig) of Indian Shores, Lori DeMello (Raul) of Plant City, and Karen Berry of Plant City; grandchildren, Cli Brown (Crystal), Kelsie Cook (Josh), Kylie Fox (Bradley), and Ryan DeMello (Katelyn); greatgrandchildren, Jayden, Makyla, Caydance, Ophelia, and Hazel; sister, Connie

Online condolences can be made at www.haught. care.

Elizabeth (Ebbie) Colson Hamilton

Elizabeth (Ebbie) Colson

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Pastor Marvin Spivey

Pastor Marvin Spivey, 85, of Plant City, born on Apr. 20, 1938, in Homosassa, entered into eternal rest on Mar. 2, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com

be received Mar. 8, 2024, from 12 to 1 p.m. at Sharon Baptist Purity Church. 3506 Young Rd, Plant City, FL 33565. A memorial service will follow at 1 p.m. Online condolences can be made at www.haught. care.

M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1 10/27/15 10:42 AM

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Thomas Woodrow Davis, Jr.

Thomas Woodrow Davis, Jr., aged 60, passed away on Feb. 23, 2024, in Lakeland, Fla. Born on July 31, 1963, in Weirton, West Virginia. Services will be held privately by the family.

Hamilton passed away on Feb. 25, 2024, at the age of 98. She was a lifelong resident of Plant City and a devoted Christian. She made fast friends and had a smile for everyone. She retired from J.S. Robinson, where she loved students and sta . She was predeceased by her parents, Clyde and Pauline Colson, brother Rodney Colson, sister Carmen Walker and husband James, and daughter Sheila Whitaker. She is survived by her husband,

YOUR CALENDAR

BEST BET

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Thurs., Feb. 29 - Sun., Mar. 10, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (midway hours may be di erent) at 303 BerryFest Pl.

Experience the fun of the Florida Strawberry Festival for 11 days and nights Feb. 29 through Mar. 10, with exhibits of agriculture, commerce, industry, livestock, ne arts, horticulture and crafts not to mention top-name entertainment, midway rides and plenty of fair food. Gate admission is $15 for adults 13 and up and $5 for kids ages 6 through 12. Children ve and under are free with paid adult admission. For more information visit strawberryfestival.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 8

MARIO DAY PARTY

4 p.m. at Bruton Memorial Library

Join Bruton Memorial Library for a MAR10 Day Party. Celebrate the hero of the Mushroom Kingdom by playing games, making crafts and having fun. Registration is not required for this free children’s event, but space is limited and o ered on a rstcome, rst-served basis. Have questions? Contact the library at (813) 757-9215.

IMPROV NIGHT

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Krazy Kup

Join Krazy Kup for a hilarious night of interactive, side-splitting comedy with Nate & Darren, two wild and Krazy guys. This free family event is sure to be fun for all.

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

OPEN MIC NIGHT

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Krazy Kup

Open Mic Night at Krazy Kup, a fun night where you get to be the show! Come out, strut your stu (sing, play, perform, recite, dance, comedy) and share your talent with the audience. Performers must be 13 and up.

MONDAY, MARCH 11

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

7:30 p.m. at City Hall

Residents are invited and encouraged to participate in public City meetings to ensure that their voice is heard and they are up-to-date on the things happening in the community. Residents can make public comments during meetings and attend meetings for the City Commission, Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, Historic Resources Board and more.

FRIDAY, MARCH 15

UNPAINTED SOULS

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Krazy Kup

Unpainted Souls returns to Krazy Kup for an evening of wonderful rock, blues, jazz and of course co ee. Fill the bucket $$$$.

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

PLANT CITY STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN

3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 102 N. Palmer St.

The Plant City Strawberry Classic CruiseIn is back on Sat., Mar. 16, 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.

MARK KREITZER & JON GARONBLUEGRASS

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Krazy Kup

Mark Kreitzer is a member of the Minnesota Rock and Country Hall of Fame and has been awarded The Minnesota Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Association’s Favorite Songwriter and Favorite Multi-Instrumentalist honors as well. Jon Garon has shared the stage with John Denver’s band and many others. He is nationally-recognized as a nger style guitarist. Together they will deliver an evening of great music. Tickets are $20 per person.

THURSDAY, MARH 21

PLANT CITY LIBRARY BOARD PUBLIC MEETING

9 a.m. at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St.

The Library Board of the City of Plant City will hold its monthly public meeting on Tuesday, March 21 in the Marion Cook “Cookie” Smith Reading and Conference Room at Bruton Memorial Library.

DAVID GRIER LIVE

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Krazy Kup

Flatpick guitarist David Grier will wow fans with his vocals for the rst time singing ve original songs that will be featured on his newest upcoming album, “Ways of the World.”

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

THIRD ANNUAL JAZZ UNDER THE TREES

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Glover School, 5104 Horton Rd. Join in for an unforgettable time of singing,

eating, moving and grooving at The Historical Glover School! Immerse yourself in the soulful melodies and infectious rhythms and experience the magic of live music as talented artists take the stage under the trees and amidst the lush greenery. Be sure to bring your tent, chairs and dancing shoes as you’ll be surrounded by great music, food and company.

MONDAY, MARCH 25

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

7:30 p.m. at City Hall

Residents are invited and encouraged to participate in public City meetings to ensure that their voice is heard and they are up-to-date on the things happening in the community. Residents can make public comments during meetings and attend meetings for the City Commission, Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, Historic Resources Board and more.

FRIDAY, MARCH 29

WELCOME HOME TO VIETNAM VETERANS

10 a.m. at Veterans Park, 703 N. Wheeler St.

Did you know that in March 2017 the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act was signed? Welcome Home to Vietnam Veterans, sponsored by The Plant City Armed Forces Memorial Foundation, Plant City Elks Lodge, American Legion and AMVETS, is a long overdue recognition for these American heroes who served God and country. Ample free parking. Everyone is welcome to attend and Veterans are encouraged to wear their uniforms.

LAST FRIDAY: “ZOOTASTIC” EXPEDITION WILDLIFE

5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St.

Take a walk on the wild side as Plant City Main Street joins forces with ZooTampa to bring you a “zootastic” experience. Enjoy live music at McCall Park from Casey Stidham, explore the Main Street Kids zone, take a thrilling ride on the extreme gyrosphere, participate in a scavenger hunt, explore the expanded visitor market and savor delicious food throughout the

evening. Don’t forget to dress up- themed costumes are highly encouraged!

SATURDAY, MARCH 30

35TH ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT

4 p.m. at Randy Larson Softball Complex Mark your calendars to join Plant City Parks & Recreation for the 35th Annual Easter Egg Hunt. The egg hunt is free for all youth ages three through 11, and participants should bring their own baskets. Additional activities including games, in atables and more will be available with a $5 bunny band.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS WITH ESTRANGED FAMILY

6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at GracePoint Church, 1107 Charlie Gri n Rd.

Join other parents who are estranged from their adult children. Parents of Estranged Adult Kids (PEAK) group provides a safe place to listen, share and support others going through the hurt of adult family abandonment. Meetings will include group discussion, self-care and positive in uenced activities to help cope with the situation. PEAK is not appropriate for abusive relationships or mental illness. For more information visit peaksupportgroup.com.

APRIL 11

YOUNG GENTLEMEN’S ACADEMY COMMUNITY EVENT

5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 507 S. Wheeler St. Prepare for an incredible day lled with excitement, delicious food and valuable learning experiences as middle/ high school students gear up for an epic adventure that will help unlock your true potential. For more information contact Derek Carman at (813) 398-3845 or Darrell Smith at (813) 495-3267.

I LOVE PLANT CITY

SUNRISE/SUNSET

THURSDAY, MARCH 7

High: 79

Low: 70

Chance of rain: 52%

Thursday, March 7 6:37a 6:25p

Friday, March 8 6:36a 6:26p

Saturday, March 9 6:35a 6:26p

7

8

9

FORECAST WEATHER

High: 83

Low: 74

Chance of rain: 18%

Sunday, March 10 7:34a 7:27p

FRIDAY, MARCH 8

Monday, March 11 7:33a 7:28p

Tuesday, March 12 7:32a 7:28p

Wednesday, March 13 7:31a 7:29p

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

High: 84

Low: 74

Chance of rain: 13%

High: 89

Low: 67

Chance of rain: 24%

SUNDAY, MARCH 10

MONDAY, MARCH 11

High: 79 Low: 68

Chance of rain: 9%

MOON PHASES Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

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Brenda Miller shared this photo of some raccoons enjoying an outdoor picnic.