A 185-foot cell phone tower, owned by Ignite Wireless, LLC and erected in spring 2022 on the CSX right-of-way near the corner of Sydney and Turkey Creek Roads, is under scrutiny by city o cials due to the company’s failure to submit a site development plan to Planning and Zoning prior to construction in addition to the
tower’s noncompliance with zoning regulations and aesthetic standards.
The Plant City Code Enforcement Board heard arguments Tuesday night regarding the $250,000 project, which was not permitted and violates several provisions in the municipal code, o cials said.
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The 2024 Florida Strawberry Festival may have been “Out of This World,” but it’s now out of here.
The annual festival may have o cially wrapped up its 11-day run on Sunday, March 10 but the memories made will linger in the hearts and minds of all those who attended the event for years to come.
Let’s not forget Tampa resident Franches Schnell, who won the Stingray Chevrolet Corvette ra e and will soon be driving a brand new Chevrolet Corvette 3LT. Festival attendance this year was 634,779, a gure that exceeded last year’s record-shattering 606,116 attendees. That wasn’t the only record broken. The community supported youth in agriculture by puurching their swine, steer and plants for a whopping total of $1,934,839.21.
“I want to thank the community for coming out and once again supporting the Florida Strawberry Festival,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Kyle Robinson.
City commissioners shared their appreciation for the festival at Monday night’s commission meeting. “We’re proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish,” said Commissioner Michael Sparkman, who also mentioned negotiations were underway to secure additional parking lots for next year’s festival.
O cials are already working on ways to improve the guest experience for next year. One of their goals is to replace a tent with an airconditioned building.
The 2025 Florida Strawberry Festival will be held Thursday, February 27 through Sunday, March 9.
Every day, people report scams to the Federal Trade Commission, and then they share the information collected in a data book, which tell a story about the top scams people share- so others can spot and avoid them.
People lost $10 billion to scams in 2023, the highest ever reported losses. Email was the number one contact method for scammers this year.
Which scam takes 2023’s top spot?
Imposter scams remained the top fraud category, with reported losses of $2.7 billion. These scams include people pretending to be your bank’s fraud department, the government, a relative in distress, a well-known business or a technical support expert.
Want to protect yourself, your loved ones and your communities from scams? Go to ReportFraud.gov to report fraud, which helps law enforcement take action with education and enforcement.
Whether you’re a seasoned or novice artist, Plant City Main Street invites residents to visit downtown on Saturdays for Sketchbook Saturdays, a chance to channel your inner Picasso and create artwork inspired by the downtown’s picturesque storefronts and serene parks. Last Saturday, an artist named Ginny painted a watercolor and ink greeting card while sitting at Krazy Kup drinking an iced Berry Lavish with oat milk.
Capture the essence of historic downtown with your preferred medium- crayons, markers, pastels, watercolor, acrylicand then snap a photo of yourself with your creation and email it to tinamarie@ plantcitymainstreet.com along with your name, the subject of your art, the medium used and whether you’re a child or an adult.
Every month, Plant City Main Street will randomly select one child and one adult for a special prize.
CITY COMMISSION PROCLAIMS
MARCH 18 - 22, 2024 GOVERNMENT FINANCE PROFESSIONALS WEEK
At Monday night’s City Commission meeting, commissioners proclaimed March 18 - 22, 2024 as Government Finance Professionals Week in Plant City. The city’s 20 Finance Department employees were recognized for their hard work, dedication and leadership and the vital services they bring to the community.
“I’m so proud of the team and the work they do for the city,” said Mayor Nate Kilton, who said he and they are “kindred spirits.”
“I’ve said many times it’s one of the most challenging areas of accounting,” he said. “We’re grateful to have our Chief Financial O cer Diane Reichard leading the charge and her entire team being thoughtful and forward-thinking.”
PARKSIDE TOWNHOMES FINAL
The nal plat for Parkside Townhomes, a 73-lot residential townhome subdivision located on an 11.94-acre site on the south side of Grant Street, west of Hunter and east of Alexander Street, is scheduled to go before the city commission on Monday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m.
On February 28, the Planning Board, by a vote of 6-0, found the Parkside Townhomes subdivision plat consistent with the Plant City Zoning Ordinance Subdivision Regulations, Chapter 177 (Florida Statutes) and the Imagine 2040 Comprehensive Plan and to forward the plat to the city commission with a recommendation of approval.
Located minutes from downtown, Parkside will feature ve unique townhome plans, each with three bedrooms and two full baths, ranging in size from 1,522 to 1,737 square feet.
As the gavel fell on another Florida legislative session, lawmakers are wrapping up their agendas and leaving behind a trail of bills sent to the Governor’s desk for signing.
“We have delivered unprecedented victories for the people of Florida,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I asked the Legislature to deliver as boldly as they did last session, and they have done so. Florida continues to show the nation how to lead on every issue.”
One package set for consideration by DeSantis, is a nearly $1.5 billion in tax savings to families, with a focus on keeping Florida a ordable by reducing taxes on property insurance as well as key items utilized by families and seniors.
If DeSantis signs o on them, here is the nuts and bolts of what that means for consumers:
Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday: The legislation created a 14-day ‘back-toschool” sales tax holiday from July 29August 11, 2024 for clothing, footwear and backpacks costing $100 or less, school supplies costing $50 or less, learning aids costing $30 or less and personal computers or computer-related accessories, including non-recreational software, costing $1,500 or less.
Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday: The legislation created two 14-day ‘disaster preparedness” sales tax holidays from June 1 - 14 and August 24 - September 6, for disaster preparedness supplies. Some examples of tax-free items
include: ashlights and lanterns costing $40 or less, reusable ice costing $20 or less, radios costing $50 or less, tarps and ground anchors or tie down kits costing $100 or less, coolers and portable power banks costing $60 or less, batteries and fuel tanks costing $50 or less, smoke detectors, re extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors costing $70 or less and generators costing $3,000 or less. The holiday also includes a number of items related to the safe evacuation of household pets.
Freedom Month: A Month-Long Sales Tax Holiday on Recreational Items: From July 1 – July 31, 2024, purchases of admissions to music, sporting, and cultural events, tickets to movies and museums, single admission or season tickets to theatre and dance performances, state park admission and annual passes and use of tness facilities will be tax free. Tickets, memberships and passes, purchased during this time for use any time from July 1 – December 31, 2024, are tax free.
The month-long summer sales tax holiday also applies to sales of certain boating and water activity equipment and supplies, camping equipment and supplies, shing equipment and supplies, electric scooters, general outdoor supplies (including sunglasses, sunscreen, and grills), and residential pool chemicals, supplies and parts.
Skilled Worker Sales Tax Holiday on Tools: The legislation created a seven-day sales tax holiday from September 1 – 7, 2024, for certain tools used by skilled trade workers. Tax-free items include certain hand tools costing $50 or less and power tools costing $300 or less, work
boots costing $175 or less and many other pieces of safety equipment, as well as certain shop lights, toolboxes and belts and plumbing and electrical equipment.
• A one-year relief for residential property insurance policyholders, covering the cost of insurance premium tax and the State Fire Marshal assessment for residential property insurance policies written between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025, for a twelve-month coverage period.
• The bill also includes a one-year insurance premium tax relief on ood insurance policies, reducing the cost of ood insurance policies written between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025.
HB 5001, the General Appropriations Act, accounts for $450 million for a statewide toll relief program to be developed by the Department of Transportation. Toll relief will be provided for certain high-use customers from April 2024 until March 2025. Customers using a Florida-issued transponder who use Florida’s Turnpike System and other toll facilities in the state are eligible. Customers who engage in 35 or more toll transactions in a month will receive a 50 percent credit.
SMALL BUSINESS TAX RELIEF
• HB 7073 provides a $5 million credit for three years against the corporate income tax for businesses employing persons with unique abilities of $1,000 per employee.
• Additionally, the bill provides for a $5 million credit for three years for busi-
nesses for child care expenses incurred on behalf of employees.
• The bill also increases the annual cap for the Strong Families Tax Credit Program from $20 million to $40 million. The Strong Families Tax Credit Program was created in 2021 to provide tax credits for businesses that make monetary donations to certain eligible charitable organizations focused on child welfare and well-being.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SALES TAX
HOLIDAY
HB 7073 and HB 5001 provide for $182 million in local sales tax relief in Hillsborough County as a result of a court ruling on the former All for Transportation tax.
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
House Joint Resolution 7017 proposes an amendment to the Florida Constitution requiring the current $25,000 homestead exemption, which is applied to all ad valorem taxes other than school district taxes, be adjusted annually for positive in ation growth. The amendment will be considered by Florida voters at the 2024 general election and, if approved by 60 percent of the electors voting on the measure would take e ect on January 1, 2025. If passed, the amendment is expected to save Florida homeowners $22.8 million during the rst year, growing to $111.7 million by Fiscal Year 2028-29.
MARCH 1
NOT GONNA MOVE UNTIL YA
MAKE ME- Trespass After Warning Arrest
2400 Block of James L. Redman Parkway
An o cer met with a woman who was sleeping in front of a business. She was given several opportunities to leave the property but refused. A trespass warning was written for her and she still refused to leave the property, at which point she was arrested for trespass after warning and transported to Orient Road Jail.
GOTCHA- Warrant Arrests
4300 Block of Kipling Avenue, 800 Block of Ball Street and 3300 Block of W. Baker Street O cers were busy with multiple warrant arrests. In one incident, while investigating a verbal dispute, an o cer learned the man had an active felony HCSO arrest warrant for Failure for a Career O ender to Register.
BREAKING BAD- Criminal Mischief Ball Street/Tyler Street
An o cer made contact with a city employee, who advised that sometime in the overnight hours someone shattered a excavator’s window and stole the gas cap. The damages were estimated to be $1,525.
MARCH 2
TRUCK THIEF- Stolen Vehicle
2800 Block of James L. Redman Parkway
O cers responded to Lowe’s and met with a man who said his 2003 Ford Ranger was stolen. The vehicle was left unsecured with the keys inside.
HOT PURSUIT- Battery on LEO/Resist Arrest
2600 James L. Redman Parkway
As o cers attempted to detain a man who had an active arrest warrant, he began to tense, twist and pull away from the o cers. He shoved one o cer in the chest and then ed on foot, pursued by multiple o cers. He was caught and detained in the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union parking lot. In addition to the active warrant, he was charged with Battery on a Law Enforcement O cer and Resist O cer Without Violence (x2).
MARCH 3
RINGLESS- Theft
1700 Block of W. Charlotte St.
An o cer met with a woman who reported that someone took her Ring doorbell, valued at $100, from near her front door.
MONEY TROUBLES- Robbery
100 Block of N. Lake Street
An o cer met with a man who said a male took a rearm and shot once into the ground and then took $200 from him.
MARCH 4
CRUZIN’- Stolen Vehicle/Vehicle Burglary
2000 Block of N. Frontage Road
An o cer responded to a business and met with the service manager who advised that several vehicles on the property had been entered and a 2014 Chevrolet Cruz was stolen.
WHICH WITCH- Theft- Recovery
500 Block of E. Park Road
An o cer responded to the business, who received a piece of equipment on Feb. 29 for repairs only to later discover the equipment was reported stolen out of Kansas City from another branch of the business. The equipment was recovered and removed from FCIC/ NCIC as stolen.
MARCH 5
UP IN SMOKE- Arson
2400 Block of S. County Line Road
An o cer responded to the vacant warehouse in reference to a vehicle re and observed re consuming a sedan that was resting on concrete blocks. The State Fire Marshal was contacted and responded to the scene.
PAIN IN THE GLASS- Criminal Mischief
1000 Block of Gold nch Drive
An o cer responded to a business and met with the complainant who reported an object was thrown through the business’ front window, causing $600 worth of damage.
STAB- Stabbing
E. Baker Street/N. Warnell Street
An o cer responded to the hospital where a man arrived with two stab wounds in his left torso.
TWO STRIKES- Theft
2600 Block of James L. Redman Parkway
An o cer responded to a business and met with loss prevention employees who reported a woman concealed merchandise, valued at $80.92, and exited the store. The woman had committed a theft at the same location the day before and was arrested and charged with petit theft in both cases.
MARCH 6
AT BAT- Battery on a school o cial
1200 Block of W. Grant Street
An o cer responded to Simmons Career Center in reference to a combative student. A juvenile was arrested.
CARTED OFF- Theft (Delayed)
600 Block of N. Frontage Road
An o cer responded to the business about a delayed theft report. The manager stated a four-wheeled ice cart valued at $739.50 was taken from the business sometime in the last month.
NO AIR- Theft
3300 Block of Gloria Avenue
An o cer met with a man who advised that someone stole his green Rolair air compressor from the bed of his truck, which was parked in his driveway.
Among other restrictions, city zoning ordinances require the applicant to submit a site development plan to Planning and Zoning prior to constructing a telecommunication tower, have a setback of at least 50 feet from all property lines and not be within 250 feet of a residential district and have an eight-foot fence or wall around the perimeter of the tower surrounded by landscape bu ering.
Code enforcement o cials received complaints and questions about the legality of the tower from local residents as well as a local competitor.
Attorney Aaron Garnett of Baker Donelson represented the applicant at the hearing, and stated his client
with the city to obtain the zoning the city is requesting and we’d respectfully ask the board to defer the ruling until after the March 25 commission meeting,” he said.
On January 24, the Planning Board conducted a hearing on the rezoning application for the Periwinkle Planned Development District, led by Ignite Wireless, LLC, on behalf of CitySwitch II-A LLC and with permission from CSX Transportation, Inc. The board heard sworn testimony of witnesses about the application, which included three speci c approvals: a speci c approval to allow a reduced side yard setback of 13’ 9” from the tower edge and three feet from ground equipment to the south side property line in lieu of the required 50 foot distance in Plant City Code, a speci c approval to allow a reduced setback distance of 241’8” from a residential district in
The District encourages everyone to do their part in protecting and conserving our shared water resources.
CACERES STAFF WRITER
With more than 1,000 people moving to Florida every day, the Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) has developed the Water 101 campaign, a program to educate new and existing residents as well as communities about how they can help protect local water resources and save water and money.
“Water is a limited resource in Florida that we all play a role in protecting, which makes it important to understand your personal impact,” said Lead Conservation Education Coordinator Katherine Munson.
“The choices you make as a homeowner or community, from the plants in your landscape to how you water your lawn, can make a big di erence on your overall water use.”
The District encourages everyone to do their part in protecting and conserving our shared water resources.
Water 101 connects homeowners and community managers with helpful water conservation and water quality tips and resources. Residents can visit the Water 101 for Homeowners webpage to access a one-stop shop of tips and educational resources that can help reduce at-home
water use, save money and protect nearby waterways. This includes information about the basics of irrigation, local water restrictions and Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ as well as instructional videos and an overview on stormwater ponds. Homeowners can also sign up for District newsletters via the webpage or learn where to follow along on social media for more information.
The Water 101 for Communities webpage provides resources to help communities lead by example, reducing their water use and encouraging residents to do the same. This includes free online classes hosted by the District with continuing education units for community association managers. It also includes educational materials that can be downloaded and easily shared in newsletters, websites and other community platforms, as well as funding opportunities for water conservation projects.
In addition to the website, the District has created a Water 101 for Communities Facebook group that will provide up-todate information on water conservation classes, water restriction reminders and helpful resources to share with community residents.
To learn more about how to save water and money, visit WaterMatters.org/Water101.
In the steer category, Bella Ballard, a member of Youth Leaders in Production Agriculture (YLPA), took home Grand Champion and Kiah Swilley won Reserve Grand Champion, showcasing their wellraised and meticulously cared-for animals. Their dedication to proper nutrition, grooming and training paid o as judges recognized the superior quality of their steer. One hundred fteen youth steer exhibitors earned a staggering $1,436,107.21 to support them in their future projects and endeavors. The Grand Champion steer buyers were Enhanced Healthcare, LLC, Drop the Walls Boutique and Westcoast Enterprises. The Reserve Champion buyer was MNM Construction.
Ballard said taking care of her steer, that she’s owned since he was born in Fall 2022 and named Legend, took a lot of e ort. “I was at the barn every single day working with him,” she said.
Her steer weighed 1,341 pounds and sold for $25 per pound. “I’m going to use the money to buy more steers and some is going into my college fund,” said Ballard, who is homeschooled.
Meanwhile, in the swine competition, Kaygenn Wood, who won Grand Champion, and Sophia Briel, who won Reserve Grand Champion, emerged victorious with their impressive pigs. Wood’s pig, purchased by RAOK Boutique and Comer Tools, sold for $30 per pound. Briel’s pig was purchased by Pipe Pros for $29.90 per pound. In total, 73 exhibitors took home their share of $332,726.40 for their future projects and no exhibitor earned less than $10 per pound.
Wood, a fth grade student at Pinecrest Elementary, has been showing swine since she was four years old. Her pig, affectionately named 2Pac, weighed 35 or 40 pounds when she got him but within six months he topped the scale at 289 pounds. His favorite treat? “I’d walk him a lot and give him marshmallows, which he loved,” she said.
The night of the swine sale, Wood wasn’t feeling well. Right after her swine sold, she was rushed to the St. Joseph’s Hospital, where she underwent an emergency appendectomy.
Adding to the triumph was the success of students in the plant sale category, where green thumbs and agricultural know-how were put to the test and demonstrated not only a keen understanding of horticulture but also a passion for nurturing life from seed to harvest. Exhibitors took home $141,345; the Grand Champion plant was grown by Anna Steed. The buyer was Consolidated Pest Control. Kate Solomon won Reserve Grand Champion and her plant buyer was Parkesdale Greenhouse.
In addition to the grand champion and reserve grand champion, additional category winners were: Payton Flanagan exhibited the champion woody ornamentals, Brennan Jenkins exhibited the champion foliage plants, Avery Palmer exhibited the champion hanging baskets, Ashley Jose exhibited the champion miscellaneous plants, Reagan Marchese exhibited the champion liner plants and Noah Steed exhibited the champion edible plants.
In the size categories, Lillian King exhibited the size No. 1 champion, Lacey Merrell exhibited the size No. 3 champion and Jonathan Jose exhibited the size No. 7 champion plant. Additional awards of dis-
tinction were given to Noah Steed, Mackenzie Puerto and Christopher Dudzinski.
“Our community is amazing,” said Florida Strawberry President Kyle Robinson. “So many came to the sales to support youth in agriculture.”
Many of the businesses that step up to support young farmers and purchase their projects do so with a philanthropic vision in mind.
For RAOK owner Hannah Benton, participating in the swine sale brings back memories of when she was an exhibitor. “I had at least six or seven swine projects and I also showed a steer,” she said. “4-H and FFA were just a huge part of my childhood.”
When Comer Tools owner Trenton Comer suggested they purchase the winning swine, she was quickly on board with the plan. “Our families are very close and this was probably the fourth year we’ve purchased swine but the rst year we bought the grand champion,” she said. “It’s a nice way to support the community and is a real full-circle moment.”
Benton said she and her mom typically donate the meat to the United Food Bank of Plant City and to a children’s home in Lakeland. This year, the meat will be distributed to Comer’s employees and their families.
Comer has been sending the meat for processing and donating the meat to his employees for years. “They cut it up into all kinds of meats from pork loins to ribs to bacon,” he said. “My ve guys love it because the meat tastes better than what you buy at grocery stores because it’s
fresher, corn-fed and raised the correct way.”
Wood wasn’t sad to know that her prized pig was going to be cut up into melt-inyour-mouth morsels. “That’s awesome that they’re feeding families,” she said.
Many other local companies purchase steer and swine at the festival and then donate the meat to bene t others. Mosaic Florida Operations won a bid at the swine sale. They’re giving the meat to the United Food Bank of Plant City to help ght food insecurity.
“These fairs and youth livestock sales are the best example of farm-to-table and at Mosaic we support that and support the important tradition of local agriculture in our community,” said Mosaic Florida Operations Public A airs Manager Jackie Barron.
The sales become an excellent lesson for the next generation of agriculturalists. “To tell them that at the end of the day, their project is going to go help families in their community have a good healthy meal is an incredible way to bring that full circle moment to them and plant the seed of what it means to put food on the table and play a role in that process,” she said.
For United Food Bank of Plant City Executive Director Mary Heysek, the donation, which will provide their clients with much-needed protein sources, is a blessing. “We’re incredibly grateful for the support of Mosaic,” she said. “Their donations ensure that we can continue to provide nutritious meals to those facing food insecurity in our community.”
During the month of March, local strawberries will be served to school students at 230 school sites around the county.
School students are “berry” excited that their lunches are getting an added pop of color in March thanks to a partnership between Hillsborough County Public Schools and Wish Farms. The duo joined forces to supply fresh strawberries for school lunches at all district school sites.
Last year, the rst year of the partnership, the district purchased 4,117 cases of strawberries (each case consisted of eight pounds of strawberries) from Wish Farms.
The berries were washed and then sorted into half-cup servings.
Shani Hall, General Manager of Student Nutrition Services, said she didn’t realize if students would appreciate the locallygrown berries. “The kids went berserk to be served fresh, sweet strawberries and it became so popular that student nutrition managers starting doubling their orders because kids were asking for seconds,” said Hall.
So far this month, the district has purchased nearly 3,000 cases. Student nutrition managers at 230 school sites place their order and then the distributor, C-K, delivers the berries to the schools every week. Hall said the department serves 200,000 meals a day, including breakfast, lunch and dinner at some sites.
Hall is grateful that Wish Farms was able to supply the large amount of product the district required to serve its students. “To nd a farm that would be able to get to all our our schools was our mission and Wish Farms was able to do that,” said Hall.
Wish Farms PR Manager Nick Wishnatzki said the company is proud to participate in the strawberries to schools program.
“Not only does it provide fresh and healthy berries to students in our commu-
nity, it educates them about the farm and where their food comes from,” he said.
While March is strawberry month, Hall said she’s trying to incorporate more fresh from Florida foods on school lunch menus. On March 21, the District is hosting a Florida food day, featuring Florida grown and processed foods, including corn, milk, empanadas, green beans, oranges and tomatoes.
The e ort to include more local foods in school meals was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). “We’ve made it a mission to break barriers,” said Hall. “We couldn’t understand why our Florida kids weren’t getting Florida grown produce.”
Reuben is a Sophomore at Strawberry Crest High School and he’s on track to have another good season for the Chargers. Through 8 games for the Chargers, Vasquez stats include:
.458 Batting Average
11 Hits
5 Runs
2 Doubles
1 Triple
2 Walks
.500 OBP
.625 SLG
How long have you been playing baseball?
I’ve been playing baseball since I was 5. I’ve always loved the game. Even my dad played when he was in high school and when he taught me how to play, I just fell in love with the game.
What do you credit the most for having such an incredible batting average?
I would credit my dad for pushing me through all my ups and downs and my work ethic on why I stay on top of my game while hitting and being the best player I can be.
What’s your favorite thing about this Chargers team?
I love the fact that Chargers baseball loves to have fun on and o the eld. It’s a great group to be around and I love playing for the team and the great energy we bring, players and coaches.
If you could improve your game in any way, what would you choose and why?
I’d like to improve my throwing power. I’m an out elder who doesn’t like throwing some guys out so I think that’s one thing in my game that I can improve the most on.
Who’s your favorite professional or college baseball team to root for?
My favorite MLB team is the Blue Jays. I’ve always liked them since I was little. I loved the color blue and that’s kind of the reason I root for the Blue Jays.
Who’s your favorite current player in the MLB?
My favorite player in the league right now is Corbin Carroll. I love his power speed combo and his amazing defense that he brings to the eld, and he is only a rookie on pace for great things in his career.
DYLAN TICE SPORTS WRITERDo you have any goals for you and this Chargers team this season?
Obviously our goal as a Charger is to win states but I think taking each game one at a time is always the most important thing to remember while trying to achieve your main goal.
Outside of baseball, what are your hobbies or things that interest you?
I love to play video games and I’m a big pickleball fan. I love playing it with my teammates and my friends and I’ve only been playing for a little but it’s de nitely something I have to do more.
What’s the best advice you could get a little leaguer that wants to improve on batting? For a little leaguer I’d tell them that you never want to do too much and trust yourself to the best of your ability no matter the score or how you’ve been playing throughout the game.
What’s your top 3 songs to get you hyped and ready for game day?
My top 3 songs would be 1. broke boys-Drake and 21 savage 2.13- lucki
3.blindfold-gunna n lil baby
Durant Baseball entered Spring Break with a 5-1 record looking to rebound after losing their rst game of the season against Tampa Catholic. This is a neutral game vs Steinbrenner as it’s played at Tampa Catholic. Steinbrenner entered the game with a 1-5 record, currently sporting a 3-game losing streak.
Senior Tyler Macpherson got the start at pitcher for the Cougars and started the rst inning o with back-to-back strikeouts, retiring the rst two hitters. He then allowed two singles and a walk, loading the bases for the Warriors, but it resulted in no runs as the clean-up batter ew out to left eld. Durant started the bottom of the rst with a walk to leado hitter Nick April-Gath, followed by a bunt from Devin Suero, putting two on with no outs for the Cougars. During Blaine Rowland’s at bat, both runners stole their bases. Rowland and Chase Mobley both struck out, making it 2 on with 2 outs. Noah Morales clutched it up with a single up the middle, bouncing o the pitcher’s foot, scoring both runners, making it 2-0 Durant. Tristan Brown fouled out to end the inning.
Steinbrenner’s second was like the rst as they got on base twice due to walks, got a single, and loaded the bases, but then the Warrior’s o ense could not come through. They had a pop-out in the in eld, followed by Macpherson’s third strike out of the game and a ground out to keep the Warriors scoreless, stranding bases loaded two innings in a row. Durant stayed hot on the bats as Jackson McClellan led o with a single. Jacob Purcell and Brady Kelley both got out on back-to-back at-bats, but Nick April-Gath got a single on a full count. Devin Suero started the game 2-2, this
time recording an RBI single. Suero stole second, but Rowland grounded out to end the inning, Durant up 3-0.
It was a relatively easy inning on the Cougars elding as Steinbrenner grounded out, got a walk but was caught stealing second, and a y out to third on a quick 3 up, 3 down. Chase Mobley got his rst hit of the day with a nice single, followed by a stolen base on Noah Morales following at bat. After a 10-pitch at bat, Morales drew a walk, showing fantastic plate discipline. Tristan Brown grounded out but both runners advanced. Jackson McClellan brought in both runners on an RBI single, extending the Cougars lead to 5.
To kick o the 4th inning, Junior Dylan Holtz stepped in to relieve Tyler Macpherson. Steinbrenner started the inning with a single and a walk, having 2 on with no outs. Steinbrenner hit a sacri ced bunt to advance both runners. The Warriors scored their rst run of the game on an in eld single, putting runners on the corners. They hit a sacri ce y to center eld, scoring another run, before grounding out to shortstop to retire the side. They now made it a 3-run game heading into the bottom of the 4th. Brady Kelley struck out to start the inning for the Cougars o ense, but Nick April-Gath reached base on a Warriors error, helping him advance to 2nd. Devin Suero bunts it again and this time the pitcher overthrew it, allowing April-Gath to score while Suero utilized his speed to get to 3rd base. Blaine Rowand got his rst hit of the game, an RBI single bringing in Suero. Chase Mobley struck out on his next at bat, but Rowland stole 2nd during the at-bat. While Noah Morales was up to bat, Rowland got picked o to
end the inning, but Durant was leading 7-2.
The 5th inning was 3 up, 3 down for both teams as Steinbrenner ew out to right eld, followed by 2 strikeouts in a row from Dylan Hotz. On o ense, it was 3 straight ground outs from Noah Morales, Tristan Brown, and Jackson McClellan.
To start the 6th inning, Senior Brooks Brown entered the game for the Cougars in relief for Hotz. Brown’s error allowed the Warriors to get their leado man to 2nd, followed by a single, putting runners on the corners with no outs. Purcell had a throwing error for the Cougars that brought in a Steinbrenner runner. Brown responded nicely with 2 strikeouts in a row, followed by a ground out to get out of that jam, allowing just one run. Jake Purcell led o the Cougars with a single, Brady Kelley popped out to left eld, Nick April-Gath recorded another hit with a single, having 2 on for Suero with one out. Devin Suero bunted again, getting out this
time, but advancing both runners. The Warriors intentionally walked Rowland, making it bases loaded with 2 outs with Chase Mobley up to bat. Mobley struck out to end the inning.
Heading into the nal inning, Durant was in the lead 7-3 and Freshman Tristan Macpherson entered the game, relieving Brooks Brown. On the rst pitch of the inning, he got the batter to y out. He walked the following batter but then struck out the 3rd batter to get out number two. He walked the 4th batter and needed one out to end the game and the Cougars get just that as Steinbrenner hit a line drive to rst for the out. The nal score was 7-3 with Durant advancing to 6-1.
Durant went 2-0 during Spring Break, defeating Alonso 7-0.
Durant’s next game is Monday at 7:00 PM @ Bloomingdale to take on the Bulls.
"TRAFFIC BACK TO NORMAL"… The Strawberry Festival has concluded another successful event in our community. One of the many reasons our community loves this town and others want to move here. Our festival brings people from all over the state to experience this which then has them thinking of di erent life experiences, living in a small vibrant community. In real estate terms, people move to be near family, friends, and lifestyle. Our community provides that to many who have already made the move and many more wishing to nd a home here.
AS WE LOOK AT THE PLANT CITY HOUSING DATA, February 2024, our market area had 107 homes sell, 235 under contract, and 250 available for sale. These numbers are better than year-overyear numbers, YOY, and in line for a good start for the year. The housing inventory is running about 3 month’s supply, a 14% increase over last month’s 2.63 supply. Our inventory is starting to increase, which is greatly needed. New construction homes contributed about 60% of the homes sold last month. Our average days on market has slowed to 52 days compared to 46.6 days in the previous month.
In February 2024, the average sold price was $355,892, or an average price per SF of $182.01 compared to previous month, these data points are down 5% and 8% respectively. Although February was down in price, looking at the year-over-year (YOY) numbers we are up 6% in average selling price, and the average price per SF basically at in growth. New construction homes accounted for 60 units last month at an average price per SF of $171.51 discounted due to Buyer’s having to pay for all or the majority of closing costs in the transaction. As we look around our community, more and more new construction is being built and will become a bigger part in lling the inventory shortages in the near future.
The prevailing mortgage rates from Freddie Mac for the average 30-year-term loans have bounced around the past few weeks. Your individual rate will depend on many parameters, like income, debt, credit score, etc. While we nished the year at 6.61%, January ticked up to 6.64% and February nished the month averaging 6.77% but is still trending slightly higher, basically due to opposing views of the Fed, Treasury rates, and Stock market opinions. These uctuating rates will stabilize soon and then proceed lower towards the end of the year.
Many assume that sellers are not willing to trade in their sub-4 mortgage rates for a higher rate, but that’s not the reason why they sell. Life situations change, they want to be closer to family, need more space or time to downsize, want a better neighborhood, job change/relocation, or want to tap into built-up equity are reasons that outweigh the rate.
If you are in the market to buy or sell your home, please seek an experienced professional Realtor® to assist you in this transaction process. There are too many consequences, going it alone without proper experienced representation. Get the real scoop on our market. If you have any questions, want a market value analysis of your home, or see what's available to purchase, please reach out.
M Crawford Crawford GroupThe following residential properties were a sample listed as sold on the Greater Tampa Realtors Association MLS in Feb 2023 for the Plant City Market Area.
The home at 805 King St sold Feb 26 for $130,000. Built in 1953, it has 3 bedrooms, 1 bath and 1008 square feet of living area.
The home at 4475 Shepherd Rd sold Feb 6 for $200,000. Built in 1988 it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1564 square feet of living area.
The home at 1702 W Lowry Ave sold Feb 28 for $280,000. Built in 1988 it has 3 bedrooms, 1 bath and 1428 square feet of living area.
The home at 2219 S Preservation Dr sold Feb 14 for $290,000. Built in 1992, it has 2 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1488 square feet of living area.
The home at 4001 Cork Rd sold Feb 2 for $305,000. Built in 1988, it has 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and 948 square feet of living area.
The home at 1407 Oakwood Ln sold Feb 29 for $330,000. Built in 1985, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 2284 square feet of living area.
The home at 3317 Silvermoon Dr sold Feb 28 for $375,000. Built in 1994, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1664 square feet of living area.
The home at 3703 Crystal Dew St sold Feb 29 for $385,000. Built in 2007, it has 4 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1936 square feet of living area.
The home 805 N Evers St sold Feb 23 for $390,000. Built in 1910, it has 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bath and 1582 square feet of living area.
The home at 3318 Steinbeck Pl sold Feb 5 for $412,500. Built in 1998, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1836 square feet of living area.
The home at 1204 Wild Daisy Dr sold Feb 1 for $429,000. Built in 2019, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1958 square feet of living area.
The home at 4046 Capri Coast Dr sold Feb 9 for $440,645. Built in 2024, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 bath and 2575 square feet of living area.
The home at 4037 Capri Coast Dr sold Feb 27 for $475,290. Built in 2024, it has 5 bedrooms, 4 bath and 3354 square feet of living area.
The home at 3904 Executive Cir sold Feb 29 for $533,500. Built in 1992, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 bath and 2715 square feet of living area.
The home at 2604 Lakeview Way sold Feb 16 for $549,000. Built in 1990, it has 4 bedrooms, 2 bath and 2321 square feet of living area.
The home at 2407 E Trapnell Rd sold Feb 6 for $750,000. Built in 1984, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 2724 square feet of living area.
Why was the broom late? It overswept.
Janet Crane Davis
How do you get a country girl’s attention? A tractor.
Plant City Observer sta
I spotted an albino Dalmatian today. It was the least I could do for it.
Sulley Stephanie
What do you call an alligator in a vest?
An investigator.
Dylan Tice
I went to a wedding that was so emotional, even the cake was in tiers.
Jennifer Jordan
What did the snail say on the turtle’s back? Weeeee!
Rene Lisa Jimenez
I gave away all of my used batteries today. Free of charge.
Michele Jury
I had a date last night and it was perfect. Tomorrow, I’ll have a fig. Plant City Observer sta
What’s the di erence between a poorly dressed man on a tricycle and a welldressed man on a bicycle? Attire.
Jennifer Ann
How did the piano get locked out of its car?
It lost its keys.
What do you call a fake dad? A faux pas.
Why did the pony ask for a glass of water?
Because it was a little horse.
What do kids play when they have nothing else to do? Bored games.
What does cake and baseball have in common?
They both need a batter.
We asked Plant City: What did the ocean say to the beach? Nothing, it just waved. What’s your favorite dad joke? Get More With VIPcare More time with your doctor Specialized care Primary care that goes above & beyond Schedule your visit today! (813) 733-6462 SaludVIP Plant City 2402 James L Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 33566 Aileen Velez, M.D. www.saludvip.com
Beef jerky
William Marvin Jameson
William Marvin Jameson passed away on Mar. 2, 2024, at the age of 73.
Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Ann Hinson
Patricia “Pat” Ann Hinson, 77, of Plant City, Fla., born on Oct. 12, 1946, in Pisgah, Alabama, found rest and peace on Mar. 2, 2024.
Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral. com.
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Andres Rocendo “Bibi”, 20, of Plant City, Fla., born on Feb. 8, 2004, entered into eternal rest on Mar. 3, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Arlene Rose Fredrick, a beacon of warmth and joy, passed away peacefully on Mar. 10, 2024, in her hometown of Plant City, Fla. Born on Feb. 4, 1953. Services for Arlene will be held privately.
Online condolences can be made at www.haught. care.
Dennis Dane Currey age 80, went home to the Lord on Saturday, March 2, 2024. A celebration of life will be held at our home for his family and friends on March 16, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dane is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Susan Russ Currey, daughters Danea Sullivan and spouse Daniel Sullivan , Sara Rodriguez and spouse Ferman Rodriguez, and son Harrison Currey, and ve grandchildren.
HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM
ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES
BEST BET
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 coffee. 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 GARON- BLUEGRASS
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.
MONDAY, MARCH 18
PLANT CITY GARDEN CLUB MEETING
10 a.m. at First Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 303 N. Evers St. Join the Plant City Garden Club at its monthly meeting. Co ee and meet and greet at 9:30 a.m. and general meeting at 10 a.m. For more information email Tracey Brannigan at traceyk@aol.com.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20
FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY
VETERANS
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bing Rooming House Museum, 205 Allen St. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served any time in the military, retired or non-retention, and would like to review your bene ts, please take advantage of free assistance at the Bing Rooming House Museum. Walk-ins welcome or contact (813) 7576760.
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.
HOPE LUTHERAN MOBILE FOOD PANTRY
6 p.m. at Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Park Rd.
Hope Lutheran Church will once again host their mobile food pantry, in the church parking lot. This pantry, in association with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Lakeland, will begin distributing food to those in need. Beginning at 6 p.m. until the supplies are distributed. Anyone in need of grocery assistance is encouraged to join them as
they work to eliminate food insecurities in the community. Various goods are available from vegetables to meats to dairy and baked goods. No identi cation is required and the pantry is open to anyone in the Plant City community needing that extra hand. For additional information, contact the church o ce at (813) 752-4622.
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
12TH ANNUAL DEAN’S RIDE
7:30 a.m. at Keel Farms, 5202 Thonotosassa Rd.
Gather with more than 250 bikers at this annual event to honor Dean Snyder, a wellknown Plant City community leader and YMCA supporter who started the event and succumbed to cancer in 2013. The Ride will take place along Lake Thonotosassa; routes range from 10 to 60 miles. Registration includes a commemorative t-shirt, personalized number bibs, postevent lunch and more.Registration fee is based on distance and registration date. Register at https://deansride.raceroster. com/.
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.
CAPITOL COFFEE
8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at HCC Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Rd.
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce invites residents to its Capitol Co ee to get some informal face time with your elected o cials. Join State Senator Danny Burgess, State Representative Lawrence McClure and State Representative Danny Alvarez for co ee and conversation as they share the latest happenings at this year’s legislative session.
THURSDAY, MARCH 14
High: 88
Low: 67
Chance of rain: 7%
FRIDAY, MARCH 15
High: 91
Low: 66
Chance of rain: 7%
SATURDAY, MARCH 16
High: 88
Low: 68
Chance of rain: 8%
SUNDAY, MARCH 17
High: 89
Low: 70
Chance of rain: 14%
High: 82
Low: 53
Chance of rain: 56%
6
YEAR TO DATE: 9.33 in.
MONDAY, MARCH 18
STRAWBERRIES
Agriculture
