05.02.24 PLCO

WHO HELPED SELECT THE NEXT POLICE CHIEF OF PLANT CITY?

DAVE HOOVER STAFF WRITER

The City of Plant City search for a new police chief drew 100 initial applicants. After the eld was narrowed to the nal ve candidates, City Manager Bill McDaniel invited the public to a meet-and-greet event on Thursday, April 25 at Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center.

“We do support our police here in Plant City,” said Arleathia Brown. “We have a group that goes to police meetings to make sure that things are being taken care of in our neighborhood. Chief Bradford is leaving, so I want to wish him well, and then I want to know who we are going to get in for the next nice, police chief we can work with.”

A LIST OF THE FIVE FINALISTS IS BELOW:

„ Richard Mills, Jr., oversees the Special Operations Division of the Tampa Police Department.

„ Chiquita Thomas-Butler, Assistant Chief of Police, City of Miami, Florida.

„ James McGrew, Assistant Chief of Police, Village of Tequesta, Florida.

„ Justin Duralia, Supervisory Special Agent, Drug Enforcement Administration, Tampa.

„ Joseph Centanni, Chief of Police, City of Watervliet, New York.

PATHS FOR BRIGHT FUTURES

DAVE HOOVER STAFF WRITER

Seniors regularly graduate from high school with no plan for their future, and they may spin their employment wheels for years without moving forward.

Local businesses have indicated they would like to connect with young people when they are 18 rather than 25 to get them on their career paths early.

To address these needs, and others, Yvonne Fry founded the Future Career Academy in Plant City in 2015. The Future Career Academy focuses on revealing to students in-demand jobs that o er longterm career growth and sustainable employment. The organization accomplishes this by cultivating relationships between

Hillsborough County Public Schools, and community and business partners.

One of the unique things about the partnership between the schools, the companies, and the Future Career Academy is multiple times throughout the year Fry arranges meeting in which business leaders visit schools to meet with education o cials to discuss job trends and current opportunities. These have been “super bene cial,” said Warren Brooks, Workforce Connections O cer for Hillsborough County Public Schools. “It is a great way for the business community to allow the O cers at schools know the growth and the things that are coming.”

Today, schools across Hillsborough County make use of curriculum developed by the Future Career Academy to teach students soft skills like how to dress and how to interview for jobs to better prepare them to gain good careers. The program was such a success it currently provides curriculum and programs to over 16,000 graduating seniors in all 32 high schools, career, and exceptional centers in Hillsborough County Public Schools.

These schools, employment organizations, and businesses worked together to hold a Future Fair Hiring Event on Thursday, April 25 in Plant City. Busload after busload of students from Plant City High

School, Durant High School, Strawberry Crest High School and Simmons pulled up to the Trinkle Center on the Hillsborough Community College campus— 400 seniors in all. As lines of students walked into the building, they were greeted by a crowd of representatives from local businesses cheering, waving signs, and shaking pompoms.

“The hiring partners are friendly, nice, and welcoming,” said Plant City High School senior Mikalah Maull, who is exploring career options in biology such as veterinary medicine.

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PLANT CITY MAIN STREET INVITES

SECRETARY OF STATE TO TALK SHOP

On Friday, May 3, Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd will visit Historic Downtown Plant City. Byrd, who gave Plant City Main Street three awards in 2023, will meet with merchants and hear about their businesses.

Your kids are special, and they deserve the very best — especially when it comes to their health. That’s why our friendly, compassionate, and skilled pediatricians are here to help you start the year o healthy!

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May marks the national Carry the Load event to honor military men and women who have died in service to the U.S. The event is a 20,000-mile cross-country trek along ve separate routes through 48 states and 34 Veterans A airs national cemeteries. You can sign up to carry the load for your part of the route using the link below: https://www.carrytheload.org/memorial-may/#the-relay

UNITED WAY WEEK OF CARING TOUCHES PLANT CITY

United Way Suncoast celebrated the power of volunteers during its 32nd Annual Week of Caring which was held April 21-27, 2024. Volunteers, corporate employees, civic groups, and community members participated in this impactful week of service at dozens of United Way Suncoast partner organizations. On April 24, employee volunteers from Enterprise Mobility spent their morning packing food at United Food Bank of Plant City. The food will be distributed to local residents. Volunteer opportunities are available year-round with United Way Suncoast. To get involved, visit https://www.volunteersuncoast.org.

CARRY THE LOAD

Plant City Main Street’s Last Friday Galaxy Wars theme on April 26 attracted an Imperial raid by these members of Vader’s Fist—the 501st Legion, Florida Garrison.

But little did they know a Mandalorian named Jason protects Plant City.

Pictured from left to right: standing; Justin Henderson, John Broome, Tyrone Bell, Drashea Stevenson, Jordan Salmon, Izayah Riettie, Danterius Ghant, Don Duckworth; kneeling: Terry Bent, Zaccheius Harlan.

PATHS FOR BRIGHT FUTURES

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

She is, “Hopeful,” said Haley Wilson, also a senior at Plant City High School. She is looking for internships in healthcare, “There were a lot of resources at the event.”

Employers have communicated they have a lot of open jobs for good people. This event was created to help graduating seniors meet and talk to representatives of those companies who are looking for talent. Some of the attendees will graduate from high school with good jobs with a bright future.

Jose Sanchez, a senior at Simmons Career Center said he came to, “see the jobs that Plant City o ers.” He intends to work in, and learn about, business.

Among the o cials who appeared at the hiring event were County Commissioner Gwen Myers, Plant City Mayor Nathan Kilton and Vice-Mayor Mary Mathis, Florida Senator Danny Burgess, Florida House Member Lauren Melo, and U.S. Congresswoman Laurel Lee.

“Today’s job fair is such an important opportunity for high school students to connect with area employers,” said Congresswoman Lee. “Today they can actually have interviews and get jobs. Some of Tampa Bay’s very best industries and employers are here to meet with the students. The job fair is a great example of collaboration between businesses and government ofcials. We have representatives.... here today to help these students and these businesses make the connection they need to start

their careers. Having good jobs is one of the most important factors in economic growth and health. Tampa Bay is a wonderful place to live and work and raise a family, and having good jobs is a big part of that. We want to ensure that graduating seniors have more access to professions and careers that will set them on a lifelong path toward economic success and stability.”

More than 30 companies, AKA “hiring partners,” and 10 training schools set up tables at the event. Among the wide variety of partners were, Burgess Civil Engineering, Citizens Bank & Trust, Tampa Electric Company, Tampa General Hospital, The City of Plant City, Hillsborough County Technical College, the Hillsborough County Sheri ’s O ce, and Codeboxx, an Information Technology company.

“What they have done here is amazing!” said Aaron Chandler from Springer Peterson Roo ng and Sheet Metal in Lakeland. He came to look into the event. “I heard this is a great thing Yvonne and her team put together and I wanted to come over here and see what it is all about.”

Jobs with these employers do not come down to college versus not college. Some of the students may not be able to a ord college. But they nd out if they work for some of these companies, the companies have a program that will pay for college for employees.

“We are looking for young people who want to be outdoors,” said Aaron Murphy, from Hamilton Engineering & Surverying, Inc. “I started out in the eld in an entry-level position and worked

my way up to a surveying crew. I took night school. Now I am a professional surveyor and I am the vice president of the company. The surveying industry has no glass ceiling. We want to train up the next group of land surveyors. We’ll pay for colleges and additional training. We want to keep as many people in-house as possible to grow the profession.”

Some of the businesses on site have hired young people directly from the Career Fair who have been great employees. So the companies are back for more.

“We have continually been to these events to recruit for our company,” said James Baker, representing Central Maintenance and Welding, which is located in Lithia. “We have an opportunity for students coming out of high school to work for us and make a good living. An event like this can open their eyes to how many di erent career elds are in their back yard.” Central Maintenance and Welding recruits a lot of mechanics and welders to work locally. The company also has a eld operations team that travels all across the country. Graduates who are hired can work in a fabrication facility or be set up with a local union to start a freefor-them welding apprenticeship program. This four-year program allows the graduates to work and make money while they learn. If they are more interested in being a mechanic, the company can help them pursue that direction too as well as careers as equipment operators or pipe tters. Once the new hires go through the four-year program, they can become a journeyman, “...making really good money, have a

phenomenal pension and health care,” Baker said. “The program is free to them so they will have no debt. At this event last year we had four individuals come through who told us they were interested in welding. We hired them.”

Some of the seniors were familiar with the hiring partners before the event because the Future Career Academy previously set up industry exploration eld trips. Once a year seniors take a day to visit several companies and learn about the di erent types of jobs at that company. For example, a

welding company also needs bookkeepers, human resources, and logistics planning in addition to the core business of welding.

“The two biggest takeaways are this is an opportunity for professionals in the industry who have jobs and that have workforce needs to meet our high school students, and it is a great opportunity for our high school students to see all the di erent options in this community so that when they graduate they can get gainful employment,” summarized Warren Brooks.

“I just came to know people who have been mechanics to get hired by them. I want to learn. I want people to show me how to do the job...”said Jonathan Perez, a senior from Plant City High School standing on the left.

Plant City Mayor Nathan Kilton, Hillsborough County School Board Member Patti Rendon, U.S. Congresswoman Laurel Lee, State Senator Danny Burgess, and Future Career Academy founder, Yvonne Fry were among the community leaders who appeared in support of students at this highly effective event. Photo courtesy of Future Career Academy.

New Owner Taking Over Popular Plant City Consignment Shop

A longtime Plant City consignment store now is operating under a new name and new ownership.

The Beloved Resale Boutique, located at 601 E. Alexander St., Suite 643 in the Watson Clinic-anchored Alexander Crossings shopping center, opened May 1 under its new owner (and longtime customer), Kathie Pagliaro. The shop, formerly known as Beverly’s Consignment PC, o ers a variety of gently-used women’s, men’s and children’s clothing. Consignment stores take in items from consignors for resale and then splits a portion of the revenue with them once the items sell.

The transition comes as longtime owner, Kim Blanchard, worked her last day at the store April 30, locking the doors for the last time and passing the keys to Pagliaro. Blanchard’s mother, Beverly Hollowell, opened the business in 1987 and then sold it to her daughter 19 years ago.

She originally planned on closing the store in early 2025, but felt it was a blessing when Pagliaro expressed interest in buying her business.

“I’m so thankful because it will continue to give Plant City a great resale option, consigners a place to bring their clothes and a wonderful place to shop,” said Blanchard. “It’s been my family’s tradition for 37 years and I’m glad it’s going to live on.”

Pagliaro, who was a public school teacher for 14 years, was a customer and consigner at Beverly’s for many, many years and a busy mom raising three children (Grace, a senior at Lakeland Christian, Jackon, 12 and Vivian, six), homeschooling Jackson and Vivian and teaching preschool music at First Baptist Learning Center. When she stopped by Beverly’s in March with some clothes to consign and saw a sign that said the store would be closing in February 2025, she immediately had a thought that her husband Stephen would think it was a good idea for her to buy it.

“His brain is very entrepreneurial so I thought if he nds out the shop is closing he’d tell me that I could run the store because he’s the most wonderful husband and has such con dence in me,” she said.

He did nd out, because she went home and told him, and his response was exactly as she predicted. They contacted “Miss Kim” and she agreed to the transaction, allowing her to take an early retirement.

“Very few businesses have been around for 37 years in this town and that was a testament to Kim and her mom,” she said. “We’re very excited to continue that tradition, there’s a very strong foundation of customers and consigners.”

Some improvements she’s hoping to implement, with the help of her tech-savvy oldest daughter, is create more awareness of merchandise in-store on social media channels.

“We have name-brand clothing from Free People, Ann Taylor, Chico’s, Ralph Lauren and Columbia and we plan to showcase the merchandise on Facebook and Instagram,” she said.

Have consigned goods at Beverly’s? Not to worry, said Pagliano. The Beloved Resale Boutique will honor current consignor’s contracts for a year but going forward she’ll have all consignors sign new contracts. While she’ll gladly accept clothing without defects, stains or tears, she said the shop will no longer take home goods and children’s toys.

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Sports

The Beloved Resale Boutique is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Consignors can bring in their gently used clothing items on Wednesdays. The payout week will stay the same: the rst full week of every month.

For more information visit its Facebook page or Instagram (The Beloved Resale Boutique), by email at belovedresaleboutique@gmail.com or by phone at (813) 752-8980.

@plcobserver

WHO HELPED SELECT THE NEXT POLICE CHIEF OF PLANT CITY?

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“We meet with policemen twice a month. Our chief Bradford is leaving. We are very concerned about who is over us and is going to take care of us,” said Retha Go Cooper. “We are here to see who our next police chief is going to be and to give input.”

The candidates stood at ve tables spread out at areas in the gymnasium to answer questions one-on-one from citizens. Plant Citians had the option to write their opinions on comment cards that City Manager McDaniel would review before making his nal decision on which candidate to hire.

“I saw this advertised. I wanted to come and check out the candidates and ask basic questions to try to formulate an opinion on who I think would be the best for the city,” said Greg Horn. “The format caught me by surprise. I thought it was going to be more of a stage where they gave presentations while the audience sat. But this is very informal....I like this. It gives you a chance to be up close and personal with them.”

Appetizers lined tables in the center of the room to welcome those who took the time to get involved in determining one of the leaders of Plant City. If you missed out on the chance to contribute to this signi cant decision for the next police chief,

you also missed out on deep fried deviled eggs, among other options. It turns out six of these eggs is not too many to eat.

“I am here with my tness class and we want to get a clear picture of each candidate who is running for the chief of police here in Plant City, said Lisa Bradley. “It is very important to know what is ahead of us in regards to the candidates, and what is going on for our community.”

“I think this is a great opportunity to meet the candidates, to learn a little bit about their background and their vision for the position they are about to obtain,” said Tammy Nelson, also from the tness class. No reporters saw anyone from the tness class eat the deep-fried deviled eggs.

“Right now we have Chief Bradford. I think he is amazing. Now that he is going to be replaced, I want to make sure the right person is getting in,” said Chris Perry. “It’s nice to get to know each person oneon-one....to try to make my decision.”

A consistent ow of people walked into the auditorium during the evening.

“We are very pleased to o er an opportunity for the community to come in and see our candidates,” said Jack Holland, Assistant City Manager. “It is really eye opening to allow them to interview them one-on-one like this and give us feedback. We really appreciate their feedback. I think we had a good turn out.”

Retha Go Cooper (sitting left) and Arleathia Brown are part of a group that meets with PCPD o cers twice a month.

Ladies from a tness class came to meet the candidates. Left to Right: Tammy Nelson, Lisa Bradley, Tonina Tetlow.

Greg Horn enjoyed the format of the event.

“I feel that this is a good way to know the candidate without waiting on them to get into o ce....to get to know them and have input on what is going on with the city,” Donnell Smith said.

“I want to make sure the right person is getting in,” said Chris Perry.

Assistant City Manager Jack Holland.

HIDDEN TRAFFIC HEROES

Do you hate getting stuck in tra c? Are you thankful for the times you can cruise right through Plant City (not breaking the speed limit, of course), without getting hung up? Have you ever thought about how this happens?

Over 35 CCTV cameras are placed at key points throughout Plant City. These cameras are used by Plant City Tra c Operations to manage tra c ow. This group is behind the scenes making your life easier every day.

“Tra c has increased substantially in the last two years,” said Fred Baxter, Plant City Tra c Operations Manager. “With all the additional developments and thriving businesses, we are well beyond pre-COVID tra c volumes right now.”

Plant City Tra c Operations performs a wide range of tasks. It has separate divisions including the Advanced Tra c Management System (ATMS), Tra c Signals, Roadway Lighting, and Signs & Markings. The ATMS monitors Plant City’s tra c network daily through CCTV cameras, video detection, and other associated Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) devices.

“Our tra c operations signal system is one of the most robust in the country,” said Baxter. “Other agencies of larger scale see Plant City as a small model for what they want their larger municipality to establish.” Recently, Plant City was awarded with the State of Florida TaxWatch Davis Productivity Award for “Developed Tra c Incident Diversion Routes for Interstate Four.”

This ATMS platform also monitors and operates the school ashers, pedestrian crossing lights, and the signal emergency preemption throughout the city. Each re truck and EMS unit carries a cellular device that, when activated, triggers an oncoming light green to clear the way for the vehicle. There is a backup radio system that is a failsafe if cellular is lost.

“We have had almost daily occurrences where we have to provide management for I-4 incidents that create congestion on corridors that parallel I-4,” said Baxter. “This is typically due to an accident, a lane blockage, or just daily 4:00-6:00 afternoon congestion.” One of the heaviest congested sections of I-4 is between McIntosh Road and County Line Road. So, locals who travel this area on a regular basis have rerouted their travel to get around the backups. “These drivers are using arterial roadways through Plant City requiring us

to give a lot of attention to detail in timing adjustments and incident management protocols to try to alleviate the congestion and get the motorists owing,” Baxter explained. “That is our biggest goal.”

Plant City’s video management software is a key component of the monitoring and incident management of these local roads, arterials, and collector roads that parallel Interstate 4 (I-4). To function e ectively, Plant City Tra c Operations also needs access to video cameras on I-4 itself to anticipate and alleviate heavy tra c that redirects through Plant City streets when tra c on I-4 is jammed. Currently Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has provided Plant City with access to cameras on I-4 from 579 to Polk Parkway. The problem is Plant City’s Tra c Operations current software is outdated and renders most of these I-4 cameras inaccessible. To make matters worse, new FDOT cameras that will go live this year will leave Plant City Tra c Operations completely blind to the tra c ow on I-4.

For this reason, at the April 22 City Commission meeting, a resolution was approved to purchase video management software to upgrade Tra c Operations. The cost of the software is $67.837.89.

Funds for this purchase are currently available in the budget.

The new platform will also contribute a wide range of new video analytics that the current software provider doesn’t o er. One of these is a mobile server application that will allow Tra c Operations technicians to view and assess situations from their mobile phones. This is a bene t both during business hours and after hours to handle complaints such as a tra c signal that is ashing, or tra c backed up at a light that doesn’t change. “This is going to give technicians a useful application,” said Baxter. “They can actually look at what is going on in real time just through their mobile device and be able to assess the situation to allow the after-hours supervisor to determine whether they even need to go out to the site or not.” This option will save overtime and lower response times to resolve problems and increase safety since technicians will not need to travel so often.

The major bene t of the proposed upgrade is it will allow for a wide range of CCTV manufacturers to be supported. So, no matter what technology evolves, Plant City Tra c Operations will be able to see tra c and help get Plant City drivers to their destinations as quickly and safely as possible.

DAVE HOOVER STAFF WRITER

A wall mural at Tra c Operations facility commemorating Plant City.

CUTEST CRITTER

Do you want Plant City to see how cute your favorite pets are? Send your pictures to Sarah Holt at sholt@plantcityobserver.com to be featured.

ONYX: Onyx is a 6-year-old boxer that loves cheese, chewing on ropes, and going camping. She gets the zoomies when it’s cold outside and then loves to come in and snuggle! Scott, Lisa, Jaden and Reagan Perry are her family.

BLOOMING WHILE BOOMING

There is a rumor out there that for many years Plant City leaders have been resistant to, and have fought, growth. But in the last handful of years they have reversed course and that is why new developments are springing up.

This rumor is, “Not true,” according to City Manager Bill McDaniel. For many years, the Plant City Commission has operated with a focus on strategic long-term plans for healthy growth.

Harking back to the recession of 20082010, the city’s focus was primarily on residential development. Land entitlements (the legal process by which a developer gains all necessary approvals for a real estate development plan) were in place that long ago. But no companies wanted to take on the development projects in the economic climate that existed during the downturn, so the entitlements sat dormant since that time.

After the economic downturn, Plant City leaders changed the focus of development to industrial logistics such as the large facilities that have been built along County Line Road. Plant City prospectively ran utilities on County Line to encourage exactly the type of development that has been established there. “When you’re creating jobs like that, then naturally some housing would follow,” said McDaniel. However, then came Florida’s population boom. According to the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council, 630,000 people moved to Florida during 2020 and 2021. An additional 300,000 moved in 2023. “They’ve got to live somewhere, said McDaniel. “Every community that I go through in Florida is growing, and some of them have had explosive growth.”

The City has changed several codes and ordinances to try to better manage its growth. “I think we have done a really good job at managing it in what is an absolute boom time of development,” McDaniel

opined. “I think that if you study it a little bit, the Commission vision has been realized in that we created a job base and we created a foundation to our tax base that would allow this community to grow and thrive. Then we’ve allowed the residential to follow along as a natural result. You’ve got to give your people a place to work, and create good jobs... well-paying jobs, and I think we have been successful in attracting businesses that provide for that.” To enhance this healthy growth, the Plant City Commission supported the formation of the Plant City Economic Development Corporation. This entity is a public-private partnership between Plant City and local private sector investors to expand businesses to create jobs and strengthen the tax base. “They do a lot of the heavy lifting in recruiting these rms to the area, so it has been a very valuable partnership for the city,” said McDaniel.

The current residential construction at Northpark Isle and The Farm at Varrea is

the realization of the old land entitlements. In addition to these current large projects other developments are on the way. McDaniel pointed out that, in terms of e ects on a city and its nances, housing development is high demand/low return while logistics and distribution development is low demand/high return. What this means is, residential development creates a higher need for city services like police, re, and emergency medical services (EMS), more parks, and more of everything. So for a city to bloom and grow in a healthy way it has to have a balance of both residential and various kinds of businesses—just as has been planned in Plant City.

DAVE HOOVER STAFF WRITER

SPORTS

Carson Parm

Carson is a 4-year-old in his rst year playing for Plant City’s Little League. He also played soccer at the YMCA in 2023. Join us in one of our youngest interviews ever (with the help of his mom Chelsea!)

What position do you play in baseball?

First base and pitcher

What’s your favorite sport? Baseball

When you’re not playing sports, what do you like to do for fun?

Just play around and ride my bike …. That’s fun

After playing sports, what’s your favorite thing to eat?

Chicken nuggets and fries from McDonald’s

If you could have a walk-up song, what would it be?

The tootsie roll

Do you like hitting or playing in the eld more? I like hitting more because catching the ball is hard

If you could change your team name, what would you change it to? Team cheetahs

Do you like playing in the morning or night more? Night time

What’s the next sport you want to try playing in a league? Football

Who’s better at sports… mommy or daddy and why?

Daddy, because he hits the balls very hard and he can throw soooo far

PHOTO BY MICHELLE FOSTER

STRAWBERRY CREST BASEBALL MERCY RULES RIDGE COMMUNITY

DISTRICT BASEBALL HAD THE CHARGERS FACING OFF AGAINST THE BOLTS.

Districts for baseball started Monday with the Strawberry Crest Chargers facing o against the Ridge Community Bolts. Crest entered Monday’s game on a threegame winning streak and Ridge Community was cold, winning just two of their last 10 regular season games.

Chase Conti drew the start for the Chargers and Ridge made an instant impact, starting the game with a single, a walk, and another single, loading the bases. The cleanup hitter lined to Saxon Shah, then he got the runner on second making it two outs with runners on the corners for Ridge. The runner on rst stole second. Conti struck out the next batter leaving two on for Ridge.

Reuben Vasquez started Crest o right with a leado single. Toby Highsmith was next up. During his at bat, Vasquez successfully stole second. Highsmith executed a perfect bunt. The Ridge third baseman overthrew to rst, leading to Vasquez scoring and Highsmith advancing to second. Dillon Knight was hit by a pitch on the second pitch. Chase Conti got his rst at bat with two on and no outs. He hit a soft one to the second baseman and he had trouble scooping it up, forcing another error, throwing it past the rst baseman. Highsmith scored in the process and Knight/Conti both advanced. Akhil Nimmala struck out but it hit the ground so he got to try and beat the throw out to

rst. The catcher got Akhil out at rst, but Knight scored in the process. Nico Cappucci hit it right to the pitcher for the second out, which brought up Matt Hall. Hall struck out but Crest went to the second inning with a 3-0 lead.

Conti hit the rst batter to start the second. Conti struck out his second batter and shortly after, they caught the leado batter stealing second. Conti struck out another batter for the third out of the inning.

Kevin Kenny led o in the bottom of the second for the Chargers and struck out. Shah ew out deep to right eld for the second out and that brought up Vasquez. Vasquez drew a walk, bringing Highsmith back up. Vasquez stole second, followed by an RBI single from Highsmith, extending Crest’s lead to 4. Knight was back up and ew out to left eld to end the inning. Crest led 4-0.

Conti walked the leado batter for Ridge in the top of the third. The second batter grounded to Shah who threw him out at rst. The lead-o runner advanced to second with one out. The third batter of the inning for Ridge singled, putting runners on the corners. Ridge hit a sacri ce y to left eld, scoring their rst run of the game. Conti struck out the Ridge batter for the third out of the inning.

Conti led o in the bottom of the third for Crest and grounded out. Nimmala drew a walk, putting him on rst with Cappucci up. On a wild pitch, Nimmala stole second.

Cappucci singled, bringing in Nimmala. Matt Hall ew out to left eld for the second out of the inning. Kevin Kenny was next up and during his at bat, Cappucci stole second. Kenny grounded out to end the inning, Crest was up 5-1.

Conti was back out for the top of the fourth and Ridge lined out to Nimmala on the rst pitch of the inning. Conti hit the second batter of the inning, putting one on with one out. The third batter of the inning for Ridge singled, putting two on. The next batter popped up and was caught out by Toby Highsmith. Another pop-up by Ridge ended the top of the fourth.

Shah was hit by the rst pitch in the bottom of the fourth. That brought Vasquez back up for the third time. He reached base for the third time with a single, putting runners on the corner with Highsmith up. Vasquez stole his third base of the game after the rst pitch was thrown. He ended up getting out on a line drive to third. Knight popped up to right eld, advancing Knight to second, and Shah scored. Conti grounded out to rst, but Vasquez scored. With two outs and Knight on third, Nimmala was up. He ew out to end the inning. Crest led 7-1 going into the fth.

Conti was pulled for Damien Lariz. On the second pitch of the inning, the Bolts lead o batter popped up foul for the rst out. The second batter grounded out to Nimmala. It was 3 up, 3 down for the Bolts as they had another ground out to retire

the side.

Cappucci led o in the bottom of the fth for Crest and walked. Cappucci got to third on a stolen base, followed by a bad throw bringing up Hall. He ended up ying out to center eld, bringing in Cappucci for the run. Kevin Kenny struck out for the second out. Shah was walked during his at bat. During Vasquez’s at bat, Shah was caught stealing second to end the inning. Crest led 8-1 as they headed to the sixth. Lariz was back out to start the inning. The leado batter for the Bolts popped out to rst. Lariz struck out the second batter and the third batter was walked, putting a runner on rst with two outs. The fourth batter grounded out, keeping it clean for Lariz through 2 innings of work.

Vasquez led o in the bottom of the sixth reaching base for the fourth time in the game. Highsmith was back up and during his at bat, Vasquez stole second. Highsmith walked, putting runners on the corners with Dillon Knight up. Highsmith stole second during Knights at bat. Knight tripled, clearing the bases, bringing in Vasquez and Highsmith. Conti popped up to the catcher for the rst out. Nimmala ended the game on a walk-o , 2-run homer! The Chargers mercy-ruled Ridge Community 12-1 and faced o against the Durant Cougars on Tuesday.

The Plant City Raiders lost their district game to Lennard by a score of 5-3.

DURANT BASEBALL ADVANCES TO DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP

Tuesday’s game was a cross-town rivalry as a part of the 2024 FHSAA Baseball District Tournament featuring the 20-3 Durant Cougars and the 16-8 Strawberry Crest Chargers. These teams faced o back on April 8 and Durant won a close one 3-2. Crest was coming o a district mercy rule win vs Ridge Community, as the Cougars put a 9-game winning streak on the line, not losing a single game in April.

Chase Mobley got the start on the mound for the Cougars and struck out the rst two batters, Reuben Vasquez and Toby Highsmith. It was 3 up, 3 down for Mobley as Dillon Knight grounded out. Landon Wood got the start at pitcher for the Chargers and Nick April-Gath was lead o for the Cougars, ying out to left eld for the rst out. Blaine Rowland grounded out to shortstop for the second out. Noah Morales got the hitting department started with a single past the shortstop. Mobley got hit by the pitcher, putting two on with two outs. Brantley Hayward opened the game up for the Cougars with a 3-run home run, clearing the bases. Tyler Macpherson ew out to left eld to end the inning with the Cougars up 3-0. Mobley was back on the mound and faced o against Chase Conti to start the inning. Mobley struck out Conti. Akhil Nimmala struck out in his rst at bat as well, which made it Mobley’s fourth strikeout in ve outs. Nico Cappucci got the Charger’s rst hit of the game. On the rst pitch, Matt Hall grounded in a force out, which sent it to the bottom of the second.

Jackson McClellan struck out in the bottom of the second by Landon Wood. Brady Kelly quickly got out in the in eld for the second out bringing up Devin Suero. He got his rst hit with a single past the third baseman. April-Gath was back up and got his rst hit of the game with a single bouncing right over the third baseman. Rowland ew out to right eld to end the inning.

In the top of the third, Mobley was back on the mound with a 3-0 Cougars lead. Saxon Shah led o for Crest and grounded out to the second baseman Brady Kelly. Lance Highsmith got out in the in eld on the rst pitch. Vasquez got on base for the rst time in the game with a hard-hit single up the middle. Toby Highsmith grounded out to shortstop on the rst pitch for a quick inning.

Noah Morales led o for the Cougars in the bottom of the third and he was looking for his second hit of the game but he was walked. After the walk, Wood was taken out of the game for Brisen Tweedy. The rst batter he faced was Chase Mobley. Tweedy won the exchange, striking out Mobley. The next batter was Hayward. During his at bat, Morales stole second. Hayward was caught out and Morales was then out on the tag out, ending the inning on a double play.

Mobley was back out for the fourth and faced o against Knight. A single over third was a base hit for Knight. Conti struck out. Nimmala struck out for the second out and Mobley’s 6th strikeout of the game. Nico Cappucci was up with Knight on two outs. Knight stole third during Cappucci’s at bat. Cappucci was walked, which was Mobley’s rst of the game. Cappucci stole second during Matt Hall’s at bat. During the at bat, a wild pitch by Mobley scored Knight for the Charger’s rst run of the game, with Cappucci advancing to third. Hall was hit by pitch, putting two on and two outs with Shah up. During Shah’s at bat, Hall stole second. Mobley got his seventh strikeout of the game on Shah to leave the tying runners on base. Tweedy stayed on the mound in the bottom of the fourth for Crest and started the inning against Tyler Macpherson. An error by Cappucci led to Macpherson getting on base. Jackson McClellan got to third on an error from Shah, scoring Macpherson in the process. Back-to-back errors by Crest’s in eld led to Kelly being up. He grounded out to Cappucci for the rst out of the inning. Suero also grounded out to Cappucci for the Cougar’s second

out. Another Crest elding error not only scored another Cougars run but got AprilGath to third. On a wild pitch by Tweedy, April-Gath scored during Rowland’s at bat. Rowland singled on a hard-hit ball through the in eld. Noah Morales reached base safely but the base runner for Rowland, Nick Maurello, was out trying to sneak his way to third.

In the top of the fth and Mobley is crushing, with seven strikeouts and one run allowed. Highsmith got the top of the fth going for the Chargers with a single on Mobley’s rst pitch thrown. During Vasquez’s at bat, Mobley balked, moving Lance Highsmith to second. Vasquez struck out for the rst out of the inning, Mobley’s eighth of the game. Toby Highsmith grounded to shortstop and AprilGath chased down Lance Highsmith for the second out, with Toby Highsmith advancing to second. With two outs, Dillon Knight was up. During the at bat, Mobley had a wild pitch, advancing Highsmith to third. Mobley struck out Knight, his ninth of the game.

Tweedy was back on the mound for the bottom of the fth, looking to rebound after allowing three runs in the fourth. Mobley led o for the Cougars this inning. Mobley singled and Dylan Hotz came in to run the bases for him. Hayward was next up and during his at bat, Hotz stole second. Hayward singled, putting runners on the corners with no outs. Before Macpherson’s at-bat, Tweedy was pulled for Brayden Dicerb. Macpherson grounded into a force-out, getting out his teammate on second, but Hotz scored. Tristan Brown

got his rst at-bat of the game in the bottom of the fth and hit a ground ball, but an error on Crest in eld kept both runners on with just one out. Brady Kelly struck out for the second out. Suero grounded out to Cappucci to end the inning.

Mobley was back out for the top of the 6th inning. He faced o against Conti for Crest and Conti struck out. Nimmala singled through the in eld and that brought up Cappucci. He was hit by pitch from Mobley, which put two on with one out for Crest. Mobley was pulled for Jack Brooks. The rst batter he faced was Matt Hall and he was walked, loading the bases with one out. Kaden Kuracka came in for Crest and hit a sacri ce y, which scored the Charger’s rst run since the fourth inning. Highsmith grounded out to a force-out, with the nice scoop and throw by April-Gath. Dicerb was back out for the bottom of the sixth, starting with the top of the Cougars lineup and April-Gath grounded out Conti. Rowland popped up to Conti on his rst pitch. Morales grounded out to Cappucci for a quick three up three down. Brooks returned to the mound to try and close out the game. Vasquez grounded out to April-Gath for the rst out. Toby Highsmith struck out. Knight singled to keep the game alive then stole second during Conti’s at bat. Conti grounded out to third base to end the game. The nal score was 7-2.

Durant will play Newsome today, Thursday, May 2 for the District Championship at 7:00 p.m.

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

We asked Plant City: What is your favorite way to celebrate something?

Prayer of gratitude

Ed Verner

Drink lots of cold beer

William Brannan

Cookout with the fam!!

Daniel Gallegos

Relaxing with friends and family

Ruth Potter

Family get-togethers

Denise Davidson

Sitting on the porch with a cold beer

Kay Kay

Food, drinks and music

Presley

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Bert Franklin Dull

Bert Franklin Dull, son of the late J.T. and Annie Dull, peacefully departed to be with His Lord on Apr. 24, 2024. Born in Winter Haven, Fla., Bert was raised in Plant City, Fla., and proudly graduated from Plant City High School, Class of 1951. For 64 years, Bert was a devoted husband to Jolly Howell of Plant City. Together, they raised two children, Molly Ann (William Bu ngton) and Bert Franklin (Angela), cherished by ve grandchildren (Suzanne, Beau, Kathryn, Lauren, and Robert) and six great-grandchildren (Saige, Ashley, Christian, Stevie, McKenzie, and Melodie).

Growing up on Lake Shipp in Winter Haven, Fla., Bert found joy in shing, hunting in the Everglades, and music. Family vacations often included trips to the Smokey Mountains and visits to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN. Their shared love for NASCAR races led to memorable travels across the southeast to attend many races. A modest collection of tro-

phies re ected his passion for golf. Bert served in the United States Army during postWWII Germany and France. Following his military service, he pursued a career as an Engineer with the Seaboard Airline Railroad, retiring after 45 years with CSX Railroad. While with the railroad, Bert was elected Local Chairman of the United Transportation Union, becoming an advocate, arbitrator, personal advisor and friend to many. He worked ardently with state and federal legislators to create safer workplace environments and better bene ts for rail workers, something he was passionate about. He also served as Associate General Chairman of Florida UTU. Bert was a member of Bethany Baptist Church and was active in the Olin S. Wright Masonic Lodge, the Order of Eastern Star serving as a Worthy Patron, as Grand Representative of Wyoming in Florida, and a 32° member of the Scottish Rite.

Bert lived a life marked by adventure, hard work, a share of good luck, and the support of loved ones. As he peacefully passed, he found solace in reuniting with his beloved wife and Loving Savior on the other side. Bert’s legacy of dedication and service will forever be remembered. May he rest in eternal peace with His Lord.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, May 4 at 3 p.m. at Hopewell Funeral Home, 6005 South

County Road 39, Plant City, FL, where the family will receive friends at 2 p.m. Interment at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Jesse “Leon” Pelham

Jesse “Leon” Pelham, 94, of Lakeland, Fla., born on Sept. 25, 1929, in Ashford, Alabama, entered into eternal rest on Apr. 20, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral. com.

Sandra “Sandy” M. Venable

Sandra “Sandy” M. Venable, 79, of Plant City, Fla., born on Dec. 11, 1944, entered into eternal rest on Apr. 18, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www. HopewellFuneral.com.

Grover “Buddy” C. Sewell

Grover “Buddy” C. Sewell, born in Valrico, Fla., on Jan. 15, 1935, age 89 years old, life long resident of Valrico, Fla., entered into eternal rest Apr. 28, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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Austin Jerry Snow Sr

Austin Jerry Snow Sr., a cherished pillar of the Plant City community and a beacon of unwavering dedication, passed away peacefully on Apr. 26, 2024, in Temple Terrace, Fla., at the age of 92. A graveside service will be held May 3, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Willow Oak Cemetery, 3390 Willow Oak Road Mulberry, Florida 33860. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.

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BEST BET

FRIDAY, MAY 3

RELAY FOR LIVE PLANT CITY

Strawberry Festival Grounds 303 Berryfest Dr 6:00 p.m.

Relay For Life is the world’s largest volunteer-based fundraising event. For more then 36 years, communities across the world have come together to honor and remember loved ones and take action for lifesaving change. For more information visit https://secure.acsevents.org/site/STR?pg=entry&fr_id=106989

FRIDAY, MAY 3

PLANT CITY ENTERTAINMENT

PRESENTS NUNSENSE A-MEN!

May 3 & 4 – 8 p.m.

May 5 – 2 p.m. 101 N Thomas Street

A NEW WRINKLE IN OLD HABITS:

Basically the original NUNSENSE show, but this time with all the characters being portrayed by male musical comedy performers. Think of it as “Mrs. Doubtre Enters the Convent!” Done totally seriously, this show is, to quote a critic, “no drag”. This version of Nunsense premiered in New York in 1998 receiving rave reviews and standing ovations. Join our mis t nuns from the Little Sisters of Hoboken convent as they try to put on a variety show to raise money to bury sisters accidentally poisoned by the convent cook, Sister Julia, Child of God. Filled with zany characters, outrageous costumes and plenty of laughs. DIRECTED BY THE AMAZING JONATHAN DOUGLAS, NUNSENSE A-MEN! IS A HEAVENLY MUSICAL FULL OF DEVILISH COMEDY! For more information visit www.plantcityentertainment.com

FRIDAY, MAY 10

IMPROV NIGHT

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Krazy Kup, 101 East J Arden Mays Boulevard

A hilarious night of INTERACTIVE, sidesplitting comedy with Nate & Darren, Two Krazy guys . Good Old Fashioned Comedy! Family Fun for All! FREE!

SATURDAY, MAY 11

OPEN MIC

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Krazy Kup, 101 East J Arden Mays Boulevard

Open Mic Night at Krazy Kup is a KRAZY FUN night, where you get to be the show!!!! Come out, strut your stu and show us what you got! Performers must be 13 and up.

MONDAY, MAY 13

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

7:30 p.m.

City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds Street

Residents are invited and encouraged to participate in public City meetings to ensure that their voice is heard and thy 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.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

UNIQUE BOUTIQUE AT THE CREEK

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The First Annual Market at Turkey Creek Middle School. There will be food trucks and various vendors from Plant City and the surrounding communities. Free admission.

MCINTOSH PRESERVE SPRING FLOWERS HIKE

10:00 a.m.

Embark on a hike with park sta to enjoy the vibrant spring oral wonders of McIntosh Preserve. Registration is required for this free guided hike. Check out the Plant City Parks & recreation Visit https://forms.plantcitygov. com/240865913586872 to register for the event.

SATURDAY, MAY 25

BLUEGRASS NIGHT WITH JUSTIN MASON & BLUE NIGHT

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Krazy Kup, 101 East J Arden Mays Boulevard

A group of musicians who truly love Bluegrass and Entertaining. Traditional Favorites, heartfelt originals...when they take the stage it is all Justin Mason & Blue Night! Join us in the loft at Krazy Kup to enjoy the sweet sounds of Bluegrass Music!

I LOVE PLANT CITY

Send your photo submissions to Sarah Holt at sholt@plantcityobserver.com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

WATER DAMAGE ?

WE HAVE THE TEAM AND EXPERINCE YOU NEED TO PROPERLY CLEAN AND ELIMINATE ANY DAMAGE CAUSED BY WATER!

FORECAST

SUNRISE/SUNSET

THURSDAY, MAY 2

High: 92

Low: 68

Chance of rain: 7%

FRIDAY, MAY 3

High: 91 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 9%

SATURDAY, MAY 4

High: 90 Low: 69

Chance of rain: 24%

SUNDAY, MAY 5

RAINFALL MOON PHASES

High: 90 Low: 69

Chance of rain: 37%

MONDAY, MAY 6

High: 90 Low: 69

BLUEBERRIES

Chance of rain: 20%

Shipping point: Florida

$16.00-$18.00

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

Albert Burchsted Here's a Momma Wood Duck and her babies (probably one-day old because they still have their egg tooth) photographed on Seminole Lake here in Plant City.