1.28.21 PLCO by Plant City Observer

Plant City Observer

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YO UR HOMETOW N. YO UR NEWSPAP ER .

VOLUME 6, NO. 130

YOUR HOMETOWN. YOUR NEWSPAPER FREE

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

. YO UR NEWS PAP ER . CITY PREPARES FOR REPAIRS AND MORE Commissioners went shopping for the city Monday evening and approved the next round of road resurfacing.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Ballfields and courts across the city will soon have new lighting following commissioners decision to enter a contract with Montoya Electric Service, Inc. for repairs to lighting systems at various park locations. Across the city, the Parks and Recreation Department has 61 various ball fields and courts that are lighted for evening use. The lighting systems “consist of 231 individual poles holding 1,414 light fixtures. Nearly 30 percent of these systems were installed in the 1990s or earlier,” according to the report.

Florida’s harsh climate and the age of the units have led to many poles needing new bulbs, ballasts, wiring and other repairs. It’s led to fields having a “lower than preferred” lighting level due to several issues that have begun to occur. The plan is to have all of the bulbs replaced while also repairing the dark fixtures and wiring. The total cost of repair on each pole will be unknown until the work begins. Repairing ball field lighting is consider to be a specialty, so the city piggybacked off of a Polk County contract with Montoya Electric Service, Inc. and proposed a contract “for repairs is a not-to-exceed $150,000.00, providing flexibility to do the repairs found at each pole.”

Queen

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

McKenna Jordan

CROWNED 2021 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Courtesy of Deanna Hurley Photography

In a year unlike any other, 29 girls went out in hopes of being crowned Strawberry Queen. Hundreds attended and hundreds more streamed the event from the comfort of their own homes. CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS

Courtesy of Plant City Garden Club

Booking photos courtesy of Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

Garden Club, Everyday Blessings team up for Arbor Day

HCSO announces arrest of Plant City woman for manslaughter of a child

Teen arrested for convenience store robberies

The Plant City Garden Club and the kids from Everyday Blessings celebrated Florida’s Arbor Day on Jan. 15 by planting a magnolia tree together. The tree was donated to the groups by Eddy Evans of Complete Landcare. Garden Club members brought the shovels, George Domedion helped with the heavy lifting and the kids got to digging. Arbor Day, a national holiday, originated in Nebraska in April 1872 and eventually spread to all 50 states, though they do not all celebrate the holiday at the same time. Florida’s Arbor Day, Garden Club member Jan Griffin said, is held on the third Friday of January because trees are currently dormant and planting new trees now gives them “a good start before our weather gets too hot.”

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday afternoon the arrest of Yesica Boxtha on a charge of aggravated manslaughter of a child. HCSO said Boxtha, 23, left 8-month-old Mateo Montoya unattended in a bathtub at a Plant City home on Sept. 5, 2020 and fell asleep. Montoya was alone in the bathtub for an unknown period of time and was unresponsive by the time Boxtha woke up and returned to the bathroom. The HCSO investigation determined the two were the only people in the home at the time. The child was taken to the hospital but lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful. The Medical Examiner’s Office ruled that drowning was the cause of death. Boxtha, a teacher at Burney Elementary School, was arrested Jan. 17. “My heart grieves for this child, whose life was cut far too short as a result of this negligence,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a press release. “As a result of our investigation, Boxtha was arrested and charged with Aggravated Manslaughter of a Child.”

A teen who robbed two Circle K stores in Plant City and Thonotosassa was arrested Jan. 23 after an unsuccessful attempt to flee from the police. According to Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Rhys McGall, 18, entered the Circle K convenience store at 4704 W. Trapnell Road at 7:30 a.m. Jan. 22 and handed the cashier a threatening note. McGall got money from the register and left the scene in a white Kia minivan. At 8 a.m. the next morning, McGall did the exact same thing at the Circle K store at 12850 Morris Bridge Road, Thonotosassa. But deputies quickly spotted McGall’s minivan after the Thonotosassa robbery and attempted a traffic stop. McGall sped away and tried driving through a chain link fence, at which point he exited the minivan and tried to lose the deputies on foot. He was caught and arrested shortly afterward. McGall was charged with armed robbery (less than $300), aggravated fleeing to elude, written threats to kill or do bodily injury, robbery with a deadly weapon while wearing a mask and possession of a controlled substance.

“This teen was seriously mistaken if he thought he could rob our local convenience stores and get away with it,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a press release. “Through good detective work, our deputies were able to locate and arrest this thief before he could strike again. We hope he learns his lesson early in life that this behavior has serious consequences and will not be tolerated.”

Queen PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

MEET STRAWBERRY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

MCKENNA JORDAN

Jordan’s grace on the stage, confident nature and love for her community led to her receiving the crown Saturday night.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

McKenna Jordan, 17, was one of 29 girls who graced the stage at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds Saturday evening hoping to be lucky enough to claim the coveted crown. Top 10 was called and she joined the other girls on the stage. Then top five was announced, and soon her name echoed around the building as the 2020 Strawberry Queen Meghan White placed the crown on Jordan’s head. It was a night she’ll remember for the rest of her life and she said she’s ready to work hard representing the festival in what is sure to be a year unlike any other. Last year, the Florida Strawberry Festival was one of the last in the country to be held before the rapid arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic brought activities to an immediate close. When the 2021 festival opens its gates, it will be one of the first in the nation to do so. In order to keep all attendees safe, the festival has already announced big changes to the upcoming event including canceling all headline concerts. More changes are on the way as the clock ticks ever closer to opening. “I’d say that I’m most looking forward to serving as the Strawberry Queen through such a hard time as this pandemic,” Jordan said. “It’s a big responsibility, but I do think it will be such an honor to represent the festival during this time. I hope that we can help have that positive outlook for the festival and just bring some joy to people’s lives, because so many people have been without that for a long time now.” The pageant also reflected the new reality the world is still living in. Tickets were cut off well before the room reached capacity — though approximately 600 people still attended — and the Lions Club of Plant City offered a new way to view the event: a Zoom viewing. Hundreds bought the virtual ticket and watchers tuned

in from their homes, restaurants and even their cars. In a way, the virtual ticket opened the door for even more people to watch the massive event, which typically is the talk of the town for months to come. So many people logged on at the start of the pageant that the site crashed. Luckily it was quickly fixed and everyone was eventually able to tune in. Jordan, whose bold character and confidence were praised by her fellow court members, said she and the rest of the court members know they’re going to have an experience unlike any court before them. But she said they’re ready to do their part to make sure every person who walks onto the festival grounds feels the same hometown, welcoming atmosphere that has always been present. The new Queen was born and raised in Plant City and is a part of the Parke family, a foundation of the community, a legendary strawberry growing family and the creators of the Parkesdale Farm Market. She remembers her aunt Sandee Sytsma sneaking her into the palace as a child to meet the Queen and Court and said she always knew she wanted to make those memories with a group of friends of her own. “I hope to share that mindset of always being kind and be empathetic toward others while I’m Queen,” Jordan said. “You have no idea what others are going through and it’s really important to treat everyone with as much kindness and respect and love that you can.” Every member of the court this year echoed that vow and said they hope they are able to bring a warm and welcoming presence with them everywhere they go. Part of her success, she believes, came from a simple piece of advice her father taught her growing up. She said he is her biggest role model and he taught her that any job you do is worth doing to the best of your ability. “He taught me that no matter what, the most important thing is to be myself,” Jordan

said. “That’s what I would tell anyone who wants to go out for the pageant in the future. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. My evening gown was very simple and a lot of my family members weren’t sure if the judges would like it, but that wasn’t why I was doing the pageant. I was going to be who I wanted to be and if the judges didn’t like that, that was OK. But it turns out they want to see your genuine self. So don’t overthink it. Be yourself.” Her favorite thing to do is attend the Grand Parade every year with her family. She said they set up a big tent, sit by the side of the route and have a great day. Kids run around playing and having a great time and the family catches up and spends time enjoying the fun experience together. She

Q&A

heavily encourages anyone who hasn’t attended the parade before to make it a priority with their loved ones. That family atmosphere wove through the entire pageant. The court said everyone who went out for the pageant clicked from day one and supported and cheered each other on. The new court hopes to bring that element of camaraderie with them wherever they go. “The festival, it isn’t like anything else,” Jordan said. “It’s the pride of this community and people feel like they have a sense of ownership to it. They have memories there, they are making new memories there. This is a small town and this is ours and we all feel responsible to make sure that it is a wonderful experience for every person that attends.” Courtesy of Deanna Hurley Photography

What made you want to go out for the pageant? M- My great-grandparents are Roy and Helen Parke, so when my dad and stepmom got married I was married into the family. Parkesdale is a huge part of who I am now and the festival is a huge part of them. Growing up, it was me always being at the festival and my Aunt Sandee (Sytsma) was always sneaking me into the Palace and seeing girls and seeing (the Queen and Court’s) stations. I always thought that was absolutely amazing and I would love to be a part of this experience and to get to be a part of what they do for others in the community. What was your family’s reaction when your name was called? M- My dad immediately ran toward the stage and gave me a fist-bump. He did that for me in Calendar Girl last year. He was in tears. My whole family was in tears. My aunt and uncle were at O’Brien’s and someone there was watching it on their phone and started yelling out that I had been crowned. So the whole restaurant freaked out and the band stopped what they were doing and then played a song for all of us. I thought it was really cool.

If you could pick one word to sum up your personality, what would it be? M- I’m going to say my word is “bold.” I am not afraid to say what I’m thinking or feeling and I’m not afraid to stick up for other people, When I set my mind to something, I do it. What are you most excited for at the festival? M- I’d say I’m most looking forward to serving as the Strawberry Queen through such a hard time as this pandemic. It’s a big responsibility, but I do think it will be such an honor to represent the festival during this time. I hope that we can help have that positive outlook for the festival and just bring some joy to people’s lives, because so many people have been without that for a long time now. We’ve been locked up for a year. What shows/movies/books/ video games did you binge to get through it? M- I’ve watched all of “You” in 24 hours. That was addicting. I also rewatched “The Vampire Diaries.” That has been a lot of fun.

What’s next for you? M- My school is undecided, but right now I hope to attend UCF to study nursing. I had back surgery and I don’t remember a whole lot from that week, but I remember the way my nurses treated me. That’s what’s important. I don’t remember the pain I was in, but I remember the way they made me feel. I want to be a Pediatric ER nurse to help other kids they way they helped me. Which famous person in history would you want to spend the day with? M-Shawn Mendes. I had scoliosis surgery and right after the surgery, I went to his concert and he grabbed my hand. He came to Tampa and came with Camilla to Oxford Exchange. We all joked that we had just missed them. What fictional character do you most relate to? M- Alex from “Wizards of Waverly Place.” She’s bold and sarcastic and not afraid to say what she’s thinking. And she really values her friends and family and looks out for them.

Do all of you use TikTok? If so what niche side are you on? BookTok? FoodieTok? AltTok/ EliteTok? ArtTok? M- CatTok. My For You Page is just cat videos everywhere.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

Q&A

2021 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL®

First Maid

AVERY SURRENCY

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

What made you want to go out for the pageant? A- For me, I think it was the fact that I grew up around the festival and have been going to the pageant every single year, really every single year since I was 5 years old. And seeing the Queen’s exhibit, the Hall of Fame they have at the festival every year and hoping that I could one day be a part of that. It’s a tradition the festival appreciates so much and I think everyone who goes there feels that. I’ve always wanted to be Strawberry Queen or a member of her court and to be a part of that tradition, so I think that’s what made me decide to go out. What was your family’s reaction when your name was called? A- I think my family was just very shocked and very ecstatic when my name was called out. Going into the pageant, I was just wanting to do my best and honestly I never dreamed I would make it this far. It was such an honor. I had a lot of family and friends there. They were so loud and screaming, it’s all I could hear once my name was called. If you could pick one word to sum up your personality, what would it be? A- My word would definitely be “positive” because my life motto is basically “If you can’t have a positive outlook, you never know whats going to come out of your day.” I always try to remind myself with a prayer each morning and start the day with that mindset. I believe that as long as I have that good outlook, I can make the most of each day.

What are you most excited for at the festival?

A-What I’m most excited for is being able to highlight

things at the festival that people either underestimate or forget that we have. I know one of my favorite things is the Queen’s Hall of Fame and I’ve been showing livestock for years. Everyone knows we have the food and games and everything, but hopefully we can highlight some of the other things so that people can find something new to love at the festival.

We’ve been locked up for a year. What shows/movies/ books/video games did you binge to get through it? A- Bachelor Nation. All of it. I rushed home from an event (Monday) night and dad was FaceTiming me and pointing his phone at the TV so I wouldn’t miss what was happening. Then I got home and we watched it together. I’ve seen really everything related to that. Oh, and I’ve been watching all of the Harry Potter movies. Do all of you use TikTok? If so what niche side are you on? BookTok? FoodieTok? AltTok/EliteTok? ArtTok? A- DIY TikTok. I think the videos are so entertaining when they’re like, “Do you have a hole in your shirt? No fear, you can fix it in five minutes with these common household items.” That’s fascinating to me. I watch them all the time. What’s next for you?

ing to her music and watching her show. My whole family loves her. We have had so many car karaoke sessions to her albums.

to continue to cheer in college and then get a degree in journalism and news broadcasting.

A- Ron Weasley. He’s really quirky and he has a lot of simi-

A- Hopefully I will attend USF. And a big thing for me is

Which famous person in history would you want to spend the day with? A- Mine would have to be Reba. I’m the biggest Reba fan and I’ve been to so many of her concerts. I grew up listen-

What fictional character do you most relate to?

lar qualities to me. For example, I’m spontaneous at times and will do things because it feels like the right thing to do, but I won’t think about all of the consequences. He and I just share a lot of day-to-day actions.

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

Q&A

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

2021 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL®

Court Member KELLIEANNE KIRKLAND

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

What made you want to go out for the pageant? K- Back in 2015, the Queen at the time was Samantha Sun. I performed at Empty Bowls and I was sick at the time so my vocals were not up to par. I was just critiquing the way I sounded and upset with the fact that I knew I could do better, and Samantha came up to me and said how amazing I was and encouraged me to never stop singing. Just the way she engaged with me, I’ve never forgotten it. She brought me so much joy and made me feel so great about myself. That memory really made me want to do the pageant. I want to use my time on the Court to make other people feel the way I did.

What was your family’s reaction when your name was called? K- My brother, his girlfriend was a really big part of helping me prepare and get ready for this. My brother had to hold her and my mom down when my number was called. They were screaming and clapping and crying. They were all so excited. If you could pick one word to sum up your personality, what would it be? K- I feel like the best word is “confident.” That’s a big part of who I am. Growing up, I had to learn who I really was and how to determine my skills as a person. My mom aways taught me the importance of being who I am

and not who other people want me to be. I told the judges I want to teach young girls to love who they are like my mom taught me. What are you most excited for at the festival? K- Definitely the food. I am so excited for the food: the Amish doughnut, the chocolate-covered bacon. My dad and I always used to go get an Amish doughnut. And I found out Avery’s never had one, so that is one of my main goals while we are there. After all, festival calories don’t count. We’ve been locked up for a year. What shows/movies/ books/videogames did you binge to get through it? K- “Cobra Kai” and “The Um-

brella Academy.” I’m very into the “Stranger Things” vibe so I’ve been watching a lot of those types of shows. Oh and I love “Star Wars.” I’ve been watching those a lot as well. Do all of you use TikTok? If so what niche side are you on? BookTok? FoodieTok? AltTok/ EliteTok? ArtTok? K- Dog and Food TikTok and Christian TikTok. What’s next for you?

K- I plan to go to a four-year uni-

versity. I want to study broadcast and communications to be an ESPN reporter.

Which famous person in history would you want to spend the day with? K- Dolly Parton. She is my role model. I am obsessed with Dolly Parton. She was such an influence on my singing. I have so many memories of growing up and listening to her music with my family and friends. What fictional character do you most relate to? K- Hannah Montana. I’m a singer and the personalities just match.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2020

Q&A

2021 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL®

Court Member

BRYNNE MURPHY

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

What made you want to go out for the pageant? B- When I first moved here, I started going to the festival when I was really little and always saw the Queen and Court. They were always so kind and seemed to have so much fun. Then, once I got older, I realized how much experience they were able to gain through this role. I really wanted to be a part of that.

What was your family’s reaction when your name was called? B- My sister actually had to watch the pageant online and she videoed her reaction as well as her whole soccer team, who watched it with her. A few of them had never seen a pageant before, and so when I was called they were all screaming at the TV like they were cheering on a soccer game. It was amazing.

If you could pick one word to sum up your personality, what would it be? B- I think my word would be “optimistic.” I feel like I’ve had to face a lot of adversity in my life and I’ve learned to help me keep going, I have to always look forward to something. I am notorious for saying, “Who’s excited?” or “What are you most excited for?” whenever I’m with people doing something. I think it’s fun to be excited about things and I love that one person can kind of help cheer up an entire group. What are you most excited for at the festival? B-I’m really excited about seeing the Milton E. Hull Building. I’ve done the photography contest in the past and I love going back every year. I think it’s incredible how they take the theme each year and turn it into wonderful pieces of art. Especially the children’s

category. Those are always my favorite.

ence. I want to be that person for other kids.

We’ve been locked up for a year. What shows/movies/books/ video games did you binge to get through it? B-I think i finished “Outer Banks” in, like, three days. Oh, and I’ve rewatched “Gossip Girl.”

Which famous person in history would you want to spend the day with? B- I’m debating between two. Princess Diana, I think her sense of style is so amazing and she seems like she would have been an incredible woman to talk to. But also Charlotte Rosenberg, the first Strawberry Festival Queen. I would love to talk about how different it was back then compared to now and just talk about what Plant City was like then. I think it would be fascinating.

Do all of you use TikTok? If so what niche side are you on? BookTok? FoodieTok? AltTok/ EliteTok? ArtTok? B-Random TikTok. My feed is full of the most random videos ever. What’s next for you? B- I want to become an orthodontist. I really like how my dentist and orthodontist interacted with me. A lot of kids get really scared when they go and if their orthodontist is caring and makes an effort for them to feel safe it can really change their entire experi-

What fictional character do you most relate to? B- Alexis from “Schitt’s Creek.” I can be very oblivious at times. I was born with blonde hair and although I don’t have it now, I feel like I still do.

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

Q&A

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

2021 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL®

Court Member KATE TURNER

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

What made you want to go out for the pageant? K- Just growing up here and always going to the festival. Even though I didn’t know the Strawberry Queen personally, as a guest I always felt that they cared about me in some shape and form. And watching the girls make friendships every year together, I wanted to be a part of that. I’ve heard different girls’ experiences with the pageant and it was always so positive. I wanted to represent our community and help make sure that everyone that goes to the festival felt just as welcomed and loved as I did. What was your family’s reaction when your name was called? K- I’m pretty sure I felt the ground shaking. My family has always been super close. My cousin Maddie was First Maid two years ago so watching her go through everything, it kind of built of the excitement for when I was in it. But also, this was my first pageant. I’ve never been on stage or done anything like this before, so me making it into top

10, I thought my mom was going to pass out. Everyone was so excited and then for top five, the ground was shaking. Everyone was so excited. I didn’t think I would make it that far because it was my very first time, but I am so incredibly blessed to have them on my side. That excitement kind of made me feel more confident in myself. If you could pick one word to sum up your personality, what would it be? K-“Unexpected.” I was super shy in middle school going into high school, and all of a sudden I wanted to do student government and get more involved in my school. I went through all the motions and now I’m president of my student government. I loved it and I became so involved in school that I wanted to do Strawberry Queen and represent my community in that way as well. You never know whats going to happen with me, I get an idea and follow it through. So yeah, I’d definitely say, “unexpected.” What are you most excited for at the festival? K- I’m probably most excited about meeting so many new

people. I’m an outgoing person and I’m really looking forward to getting to know people not just in this community, but state and nationwide as well. From a worldwide point of view, we have so many people that come through our gates during the festival and I want to make sure they feel welcome there. We’ve been locked up for a year. What shows/movies/ books/videogames did you binge to get through it? K- Every Tuesday during pageant rehearsals, we did a rundown of what we watched on Monday. I’m more into the safe shows like “Friends” or “Gilmore Girls.” Those are my go-tos, but lately I’ve also gotten into the Marvel movies. I even have a list of my top five favorites now. It’s so unexpected of me to watch Marvel movies if you know what I usually watch, but I’ve enjoyed it. Do all of you use TikTok? If so what niche side are you on? BookTok? FoodieTok? AltTok/ EliteTok? ArtTok?

K- I’m not sure what the word for it is, so I’m going to call it MomTok. My For You Page is just a lot

of home improvement and cooking videos. What’s next for you?

K- I want to study sports market-

ing, hopefully at Florida State, but that’s undecided. Then one day I will hopefully work for the Bucs. I love the idea of growing your fanbase and it would mean so much to me to be able to help someone make memories with a team just like I have growing up.

Which famous person in history would you want to spend the day with? K- I love Dolly Parton because of her service side along with her career. She is so successful, but

she spends the majority of her time giving back to others. She gives books to children so they can learn to read and have a book of their own. Every time you turn on the news you hear that she’s donating to something new. For my Sweet 16 all I wanted was to go to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge and so that’s what we did. What fictional character do you most relate to? K- Lorelai Gilmore. Part of it is the caffeine addiction. She’s also very hard-working and knows her responsibilities, but at the same time is always ready to have a night out with her friends.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

SERVICE TO OTHERS CAME EASY TO DON WALDEN

File photo

Don Walden, right, receives his 2018 Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award from 2017 recipient Ed Verner.

Walden, a Plant City native who spent decades working to help his hometown, passed away last week. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

It’s hard to imagine what Plant City would be like today without Don Walden’s contributions. Walden, a fifth-generation Plant Citian whose family roots in town can be traced back to the 1860s (and yes, this is the family that allegedly inspired the use of “Walden”

in “Walden Lake”), spent decades pouring great effort and time into helping his hometown grow and thrive however he could. Even well into his late 80s and early 90s, Walden kept on working and kept on helping others. Walden passed away on Jan. 18 at age 92. Walden’s life of service began with 22 years of service to the United States. After graduating from Plant City High School and later Stetson University, he enlisted in the

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U.S. Army and served from 1950 to 1972. His duties took him around the country and around the globe as well. That included two trips to Germany, one of which included his growing young family, two trips to Vietnam in the 1960s (at one point during the height of the Vietnam War) and a stint of nearly two years in South Korea. Walden married his wife, Lois, in 1950 shortly after graduating from Stetson and the couple had two daughters, Selinda and Lee-Ann. Don and Lois were married for 58 years before her passing in 2008. When he retired from the Army and came back to Plant City, Walden operated his late father’s orange grove and later got into the real estate business. He became president of Donco Realty, Inc. in the late 1970s and focused on commercial property development and sales for more than 40 years. Walden was also one of the founding organizers of the Plant State Bank, which was later acquired by Wachovia, in 1986. But he was perhaps best known for what he chose to do with his time outside of work hours. Walden’s resumé in this area is impressive. He was a member and past president of the Plant City Kiwanis Club, past Chairman of the Board of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the Tampa Association of Realtors, the first chairman of the Plant City Community Redevelopment Agency and a member of Plant City Main Street, the Affordable Housing Commission, the Occupational License Equity Study Commission, the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Tampa, the Realtors Political Action Committee, the Plant City Board of Realtors, the Eastern Hillsborough Historical Society, Plant City Arts Council, Plant City Photo Archives & History Center and Plant City Entertainment. And when someone says Walden attended every city commission meeting, it’s not an exaggeration. “I had the distinct privilege of meeting Don shortly after I announced in Novem-

ber 1991 that I planned to run for a city commission seat in 1992,” Marsha Passmore said. “He cared deeply about Plant City and wanted to hear my views and what I hoped to accomplish in that role. We became immediate friends and I was elected in June of that year. Don became a mentor to me, and in the six years that I served I went to him numerous times for advice or his thoughts on various issues. Don was a busy businessman, but he always took time to do what he could to make this city that we call home better.” Walden was named Plant City’s Outstanding Citizen of the Year in 2018 and, with his trademark dry wit, quipped “Well, I guess I know now why I had to get a haircut and a shave.” The win was a long time coming for a man whose countless hours of civic service certainly warranted it, and there’s no doubt he belongs on that list of winners as an example for civic-minded residents present and future to follow. “Truly, it couldn’t have gone to a more deserving guy,” 2017 Citizen of the Year Ed Verner said when presenting Walden with the 2018 award. “It’s kind of shocking to a great many people that he hadn’t already received it a decade or more ago.”

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

REMEMBERING HENRY FALCON Falcon, one of Plant City’s most beloved humanitarians, passed away Jan. 18. Courtesy photo

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

You could have stood three blocks down the street from Henry Falcon during a busy day downtown and still heard his big, booming laugh as clear as if you were three feet away. There wasn’t anything quite like it, nor was there anything as infectious. For many in Plant City, Falcon was a living embodiment of human joy — a man who always had something to smile about and always went out of his way to make sure someone else did, too. He never met a stranger and loved to tell jokes. His upbeat attitude and willingness to go the extra mile to spread joy to others was a boon to Plant City for decades. “I think his favorite quote was ‘Hey, buddy, how are you?’ He was a fine man, good to everybody and he helped Plant City tremendously,” Unity in the Community founder Joyce Jordan Hooke said. “I don’t think there will ever be another who cared for this community as much as Henry Falcon.” Falcon’s life in America began in 1971 when he migrated from Cuba and later became an American citizen. He worked for 48 years at Kash n’ Karry and Sweetbay, then for Winn-Dixie Stores Inc. when the group acquired Sweetbay. In Plant City, he managed the Sweetbay/Winn-Dixie store at 205 W. Alexander St. and proved to his staff to be more than just someone’s boss,

but someone willing to lend a hand no matter who needed it. “He was a humanitarian,” Peggy Wade, a longtime coworker and friend of 28 years, said. “Our produce manager is involved in Little League baseball, so he knew whenever anything was needed for his players he could come to Henry and get what he needed for the team. Henry was right there making sure they had water and stuff. When we remodeled in 2018, we were able to sponsor his team…if there was something an associate needed financially or something happened when hurricanes hit and an associate had damage to their house, Henry made sure things were taken care of. He was just that way.” Even customers would benefit from the kindness that defined Falcon’s store. In 2018, when Plant City resident Ralph Hough was scammed out of $4,000 and nearly lost another $4,000 while attempting to buy Google Play cards at the WinnDixie, Falcon and store management did more than just prevent the purchase and call police on Hough’s behalf. They stepped up and wrote Hough a $4,000 check to cover the amount he lost in his initial bank withdrawal. Falcon’s Winn-Dixie also prepares most of the food for clients of Plant City’s Meals on Wheels chapter and ensures drivers have chef-prepared meals ready to go on food pickup days. Falcon was named Store Manager of the Year for West Florida in 2015.

Falcon was heavily active in the Plant City community and “brought quality to everything he touched and did,” Steve Hurley said. Falcon, who was named Plant City’s Outstanding Citizen of the Year in 2010, served with the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Plant City Lions Club, Plant City Housing Authority, Meals on Wheels, Boys and Girls Club of Plant City, Plant City Christmas Parade, Inc. and Unity in the Community. “Along with our founder (Hooke) and in the tradition she started over 20 years ago, he was Unity in the Community,” Hurley said. “He embodied the spirit and giving heart that represented Unity as much as anyone on our board. He gave so much of himself and always did more than was asked of him. He often privately asked me if others had what they needed or if there was anything else he could do to help.” He would help out in any way he could and proved to be especially good at organizing golf tournament fundraisers. Falcon was chairman of the Plant City Family YMCA’s tournament for several years and created Unity in the Community’s long-running tournament when the group needed something to keep going. “The golf tournament was in his hands,” Hooke said. “He originated it when Unity was three years old. I had been sick and couldn’t work on it. He said we’d keep Unity alive with the golf tournament. They put it together in three months… he cleared

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$5,000 in that first year. He didn’t want Unity to fold.” Falcon was happily married to wife Ana for 41 years and had two daughters and five grandchildren. He was a proud husband, father and grandfather who would do anything for his family and especially loved being “Papi” to his grandchildren, whom he spoke of often. “Henry was the real thing — a man that was devoted to his family, friends and community,” Marion Smith said. “He was a gentle soul and generous to so many folks. Most of us will never know the extent of his giving back to others.” Falcon passed away Jan. 18 and his funeral services were held Jan. 21 in Lakeland. Those who knew him in any capacity will never forget him, and those who served with him will always be able to look at the example he set to guide them going forward. “I know he approached his business the same way he approached Unity,” Hurley said. “He was a servant leader in everything he did…he always made sure to give credit to others while expecting no praise coming his way. Unity will continue but will never be quite the same. We will all miss him and never forget him. Every time we think of him, we will hear that infectious laugh that always caused the whole room to burst out laughing. Henry was a friend and a mentor to so many of us.”

P R O U D

ASHLEY LANG

ASTIN STRAWBERRY EXCHANGE

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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HOPS-ED:

HOW BEER’S KEY INGREDIENT COULD BOOST FLORIDA’S ECONOMY J. SCOTT ANGLE

The Sunshine State doesn’t get enough daily hours of sunshine to grow a key beer ingredient commercially. So agricultural scientists just made the day longer in Florida. Glad there was an easy fix for that! Actually, researchers at the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) installed LED grow lights at an experimental hops yard. The plants have thrived with the additional hours of “sunshine.” It’s a major step forward in the quest for a truly made-inFlorida beer. Growing hops here could grow the economy. Hops farmers have plenty of potential customers. The Tampa area alone has nearly 80 breweries, and the Brewers Association reports 329 statewide. They currently buy most of their hops from the Pacific Northwest. UF/IFAS scientists have long supplied the know-how for Floridians to be producers instead of importers. Science makes Florida farmers efficient enough to compete against global competitors who pay workers a small fraction of our minimum wage and sometimes enjoy government subsidies. Florida farmers are by some measures more self-reliant than their peers nationally as well. Government payments account for substantial percentages of farmers’ income in the Midwest. Not so in Florida. What our state government does do is invest in innovation that keeps Florida farmers competitive. For example, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services sponsors much of the grow lights experiment at the UF/ IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Balm. The Hillsborough County Economic Development Department has also supported hops research.

Florida craft brewers have been asking for locally grown hops and have helped informally field test the crop with specialty beers. If you drink Cigar City, 3 Daughters or Coppertail beer, it’s possible you’ve sampled some of the creations from UF/ IFAS plant breeder Zhanao Deng. He develops hops varieties in Balm, including his “Deng Good Beer” for 3 Daughters. More than likely you haven’t, because it was produced in such small batches. It was more for promotion than profit. Horticulturist Shinsuke Agehara experiments with the LED lights at the hops yard at the Gulf Coast REC. He’s experimenting with different trellis designs and heights, planting configurations, and amounts of water and fertilizers to develop the most productive and cost-effective production system. We need you in this quest, too. First, please buy local. We can’t grow our own food unless you buy it. Look at labels to see where your food or your beer comes from. Second, please support publicly funded science by engaging with your land-grant university as a student, donor, Extension client, volunteer or supporter. The stronger our land-grant university is, the more it can help tens of thousands of Florida farmers who cannot afford their own research and development departments. If you take pride in drinking Floridabrewed beer, we think you’ll take a little more pride if it has Florida-grown ingredients. Economists John Lai, Kevin Athearn and Bachir Kassas will be convening craft brewers in focus groups and querying them with surveys to get a feel for what the market is for Florida-grown hops. Is Florida-grown something they can sell to their customers? Will people pay a premium for it? How much? CONTINUED ON PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

COMMISSION ROUNDUP:

CITY BUYS NEW MACHINES AND PREPS TO PAVE STREETS Commissioners approved more road resurfacing projects and the purchase of new machinery on Monday.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The city also approved the purchase of a few new gadgets and tools Monday evening. One of the items approved is the purchase of a Toro Multi Pro 5800 field and ground sprayer. This unit was already budgeted for as the city knew it was time to replace a 2001 Cushman Turf Master Sprayer that is “out of life, costly to maintain and unreliable,” according to the report. The tool is used for various spraying jobs within the park’s infrastructure.

The city will buy the Toro Multi Pro 5800 field and ground sprayer for $58,792.97 from Wesco Turf, Inc. The funds are available in the Fleet Replacement Fund. Soon all of Plant City will have automated trash pick-up rather than the current manual operation. It’s a multi-phased plan and the city must plan well in advance to get the automated side-load refuse trucks ordered. Plant City is currently still at the start of Phase I, but commissioners approved the purchase of three more automated trucks Monday evening in order to get the trucks

here on time. That will be a part of Phase II. The vehicles will replace three 2014 Freightliner rear loaders and can be purchased through the Florida Sheriff’s Association (FSA) Bid for $321,231.50 per truck from Rush Truck Centers of Florida, Inc., which totals $963,694.50. The funds are available in the Fleet Replacement Fund. City Manager Bill McDaniel announced Monday the city has $3,843,940 available for the FY 2021 Street Resurfacing Program. From those funds, $2,176,700

will be used to provide ADA compliant curb ramps where pedestrian walkways intersect the streets, which will bring the curb ramps into compliance for the city streets included in the 2016 through 2020 Street Resurfacing Program. The remaining $1,667,240 will be used for resurfacing roads. The city has identified 15 local streets that are top priority for the next round of paving.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

DOCTOR’S NOTE:

“WHAT YOUR CHILD MAY BE TELLING YOU” Some helpful tips that can help avoid your child from suffering an ear infection include - regularly cleaning their ears, carefully drying their ears after swimming or a shower, thoroughly washing your hands and avoiding smoking around them.

FOOD ALLERGIES As many as six million children live with some kind of food allergy in the United States, with the most common being peanuts and milk. With some children being back in the classroom and Valentine’s Day parties just around the corner, it’s important to keep a close eye out for the following common signs of an allergic reaction: • Skin rashes or hives • Difficulty breathing • Sneezing, coughing, a runny nose or itchy eyes • Upset stomach There are so many different ways to keep your child safe and prevent allergic reactions from happening. For example, let your child’s teacher know about any foods that trigger allergic reactions, keep certain foods in a separate container to avoid cross contamination and educate your child on foods they can and cannot have.

SORE THROAT (PHARYNGITIS) There are a few reasons why your child may be suffering from a sore throat, but one of the most common conditions physicians treat in children is pharyngitis. Pharyngitis has different causes, but is typically a result of a viral infection. Some symptoms to keep an eye out for are: • Sore throat • Trouble or painful swallowing • Hoarseness or change in voice • Fever or chills • Ear pain • Headache Although pharyngitis can be treated, it is important to take precautions. Have your child practice good hygiene, keep them away from people who have sore throats, colds or other respiratory infections and most importantly, keep them updated on all their vaccines. If your child is displaying any of the symptoms above, then it may be time to visit an ENT physician for immediate treatment. With numerous treatment plans available, our team of physicians at Florida E.N.T. & Allergy can help eliminate their symptoms and get back to a normal routine.

EAR INFECTIONS One of the most common ear conditions found in babies and young children are middle ear infections, also known as otitis media. This is caused by pus or fluid build-up in the ear canal behind the eardrum, which results in pain and mild deafness. Common symptoms to watch out for include: • Earache • Headache • Fever • Discharge from the ear • Difficulty sleeping

For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please call 813-879-8045 or visit Florida E.N.T. & Allergy online at www.FloridaENTandAllergy.com.

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February is “Kids’ E.N.T. Month.” As children grow, it’s important to pay extra attention to their developing bodies and senses. According to national health statistics, the most common reason children visit a physician are for ear, nose and throat disorders. Children are not expected to know when it is time to see a physician, which is why understanding certain signs and behaviors can help alert you to know when it is time to bring your child in for treatment and help relieve their symptoms.

JANUARY 28, 2021

SPORTS Quick Hits

TRI-STAR BASKETBALL COMPETITION THIS WEEKEND The 48th annual Plant City Optimist Club Tri-Star Basketball Competition is just a few weeks away, so area hoopers age 8-13 should work on their passing, dribbling and shooting now. The free competition is open to all youths, but those who play in the city’s youth rec league are encouraged to come in uniform. The team with the most competitors in uniform will win a free pizza party. The competition is typically held at Tomlin Middle School but has moved to the new Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., for 2021. The competition will start at 9 a.m. Email recinfo@plantcitygov.com or call 813-659-4255 for more information.

WILLIAMS, LAWSON WIN COUNTY FOOTBALL AWARDS The 2020 Guy Toph and Jimbo Kynes awards went to Plant City’s Mario Williams and Durant’s Wyatt Lawson, respectively.

DOLPHINS WIN TWO OF THREE TCYFCC CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES The Plant City Dolphins Mighty Mite and PeeWee teams left Sumner High School with championship rings Jan. 23 with a pair of big wins over the East Bay Bucs. The Mighty Mites started the day with a 25-0 shutout win over the Bucs and the PeeWees followed that up immediately with a 41-14 win over East Bay. The Junior Varsity Dolphins fought hard but weren’t as fortunate in a nail-biting 34-33 loss to the Pinecrest Pilots.

YOUTH FISHING DERBY RESULTS The January 2021 Youth Fishing Derby saw 32 young anglers reel in a total of 10 fish, and six of them won awards this past Saturday morning. AGE 5-10 Biggest fish: David Sherrad (catfish, three pounds) Most fish caught: Devin DuBose (determined by casting contest tiebreaker) Honorable mention: Gabrielle Garza (0.6-pound bass caught) AGE 11-15 Biggest fish: Nolan Brick (bass, 1.8 pounds) Most fish caught: Colton Porter (determined by casting contest tiebreaker) Honorable mention: Evan Scott (1.6-pound speckled perch caught)

ISSA SOFTBALL TOURNEY STARTS THIS WEEK The International Senior Softball Association World Tournament of Champions is coming back to Plant City this week, starting with the Home Run Derby at Plant City Stadium at 6 p.m. tonight. Plant City will host slow-pitch tournament action all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex. Games will also be played around the Tampa Bay area at the William Owen Pass Softball Complex, New Tampa Community Park, Greco Softball Complex and Radison Sports Complex. Schedules are online at https://www. quickscores.com/issa and parking is free.

Above photos courtesy of Plant City High School and Linda Lawson; below photos from Plant City Observer archives

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Two of Hillsborough County’s finest football players now have something else in their trophy cases to show for it after four years of hard work with their high school programs. The Guy Toph Award for the most outstanding player in Hillsborough County, also believed to be one of the oldest continuous athletic awards in the country, now belongs to Plant City wide receiver Mario Williams. It shouldn’t come as a surprise for those who have followed the Raiders’ top playmaker throughout his career: Williams, ESPN’s top-ranked receiver for 2021, recorded 740 receiving yards, eight touchdown catches, 141 kick return yards and 1,002 total yards through the Raiders’ nine games in

YMCA TO OFFER TRIATHLON TRAINING PROGRAM No matter your skill level, the Plant City Family YMCA is starting a new 12-week program for those interested in competing in triathlons or just training like a triathlete.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The Plant City Family YMCA’s newest offering encourages members and non-members alike to “tri” something new this February. The Y is kicking off its triathlon training program on Feb. 1

for athletes of all skill levels. You can be totally new to the world of triathlons and looking to dive in, or you can be an experienced participant looking to stay in shape for your next event. Whatever the case may be, there’s a spot for you if you’re willing to work in the 12-week training program. “We were working on our Healthy Living Committee and trying to think of ways to bring

the 2020 season. He was selected for the Under-Armor All-American Game and signed with Oklahoma back in December 2020. Williams is the third Plant City Raider to win a Guy Top Award in the last six seasons, joining Markese Hargrove (2015-16) and former teammate Braxton Plunk (2018-19) in the school’s elite company as the only PCHS players to win the award since its inception in 1939. The James “Jimbo” Kynes Award for the county’s top offensive and/or defensive lineman was presented to Durant’s Wyatt Lawson on Jan. 21. Lawson, a four-year starter on the Cougars’ varsity team, has been a cornerstone of Durant’s offensive and defensive lines at guard and defensive tackle during his time at Cougar Path. Lawson’s

life, to bring a program for everybody, into the facility,” Plant City Family YMCA Wellness Director Hannah Franklin said. “We’re not looking at this as a way to make money. We’re looking at this as a way to get involved with the community and give somebody something to work toward.” This program has both virtual and in-person elements so anyone can participate from the comfort of their own homes or in socially distanced group settings. Participants can get their running, biking and swimming workouts done wherever they’d like and track their progress with the Y as they go along. The program includes gear and information sessions as well as form clinics with FITNiche. “Every single month, we’re going to be focusing on a dif-

steady presence at guard especially helped Durant’s run-heavy offense average nearly six yards per carry over the last four years and he also made the Hillsborough County East-West All-Star Game roster this past season. Lawson signed with Florida International University in December 2020 and will look to become a cornerstone of the Panthers’ o-line during his time in Miami. Lawson is the first Cougar to win the Jimbo Kynes Award, which was created in 1994.

ferent event,” Franklin said. “So starting in February, we’re going to focus on running. FITniche is going to come out Feb. 1 and Feb. 8, Monday nights at 6 p.m., to do a form session and a shoe fitting, which is really cool. At the end of the month they’re going to try a 5K… in March, they’ll do the biking portion and we’ll have a gear session and a form clinic. Same thing in April (for swimming).” It’s based on the Life Time Tri program created by multisport coach Troy Jacobson. This program features five workout days per week that go beyond just telling participants how long they should work for — they’ll know what their target heart rates should be, how many pedaling revolutions per minute they need to maintain on the bikes, when to turn up or tone down the intensity of the workout and more. At the end of the program is a “race

Justin Kline is the Sports Editor at the Plant City Observer. Email: jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

week” where participants will try their hands at a mini-triathlon on their own time, wherever they’d like, and the Y will promote use of the honor system to compare everyone’s race times at the end of the week. “They don’t have to do every single event together at the same time,” Franklin said. “They can do separate days. So they can do swimming on Monday, biking on Wednesday and their run on Saturday.” The program starts Feb. 1 and runs through May 8. The cost is $40 per member and $235 for non-members (a three-month Plant City Family YMCA membership is included). For clinic and gear dates, registration information and more, contact Franklin at hannah.franklin@tampaymca. org or call 813-757-6677.

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FOCUS ON FITNESS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

MIKE GARTZ

HOW TO BEGIN AN EXERCISE PROGRAM AND ACCOMPLISH YOUR GOALS

SET A GOAL Set yourself up for success with clear, concise and measurable goals. Ask yourself what you really want. What is it that you are looking for? What do you want to achieve? Goal setting is one of the best ways to stay motivated and on track. If you have a clear purpose and know your “WHY,” you’re more likely to persevere. SCHEDULE IT After you have set your goals, figure out how much time will be required to start — say, for the first couple of months — and where exactly that time will come from: • How many times a week will you exercise? • How long will each session take? Plan for the entire workout time, changing clothes, travel time to and from (if not working out at home) showering, etc. You may need to block off 45 minutes even for a 30-minute workout. • Which days of the week and what time of

day work the best? Look at your calendar. Consider your work schedule, your kids’ schedules, sleeping, eating etc. Don’t use special events as an excuse to skip a workout — plan for them with an alternative day or time. Be as specific as possible and mark it on your calendar just like you would a doctor’s appointment or your kid’s soccer game: as an appointment not to be missed.

START WITH BABY STEPS Start slowly to succeed rather than try to do too much and expect your body to do more than it’s physically ready to do. Don’t put unrealistic pressure on yourself that can lead to injury and discouragement when you’re unable to meet those expectations. Start with your beginning, not someone else’s end. Increase workout duration, pace and intensity gradually as your body adapts to meet the new physical demands of exercise. It doesn’t matter how slow you start. What’s important is that you start. READ THE FULL COLUMN ON PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM.

Mike Gartz is a personal trainer who owns I Hate My Trainer at 117 E. Reynolds St., Plant City.

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SHARE YOUR GOALS Talk about your goals with your friends and family. It may be uncomfortable at first, but keep in mind the people that love and care about you will support your goals and cheer you on. By talking about your goals, you gain a fresh perspective which is helpful when you feel like your goal is too much.

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A daily commitment to your exercise program and goals keeps your spirit alive, your resolve strong and your actions inspired. We all know physical activity is good for us, right? I’m not going to start with telling you the benefits of exercise. What I am going to tell you is exercise is awesome and it makes you feel good both mentally and physically — maybe not in the beginning, but if you stick with it you will feel amazing and strong. And, believe it or not, you will get to the point where sometimes that feeling is all the motivation you need to get yourself up and moving. Making changes in your life isn’t easy and old habits are hard to break, but living healthy and feeling great is worth all the time and effort. Give exercise the priority it deserves. Exercise should be at the top of the priorities list with eating and sleeping. Your body needs movement.

Lakeland

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

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We asked Facebook:

We asked Facebook: What new programs would you like the Parks and Recreation Department to bring to the new community center and Plant City at large? “A walking/bike path that’s kid-friendly — parents can walk and kids can ride scooters, etc. Brewer is great but Sansone goes too much into the woods.” — Jamie Elizabeth Peebles “Art classes for kids!” — Graciela M. Gonzalez “Inside pool and more senior water exercise classes” — Darlene Stanley “Art, music, Zumba and exercise classes for adults” — Marley Martinez “Adult softball” — Michelle Valdes “Table Tennis” — Asif Hakeem “A water park” — Lawrence Granger, Summer Wall “How about pickleball, that seems to be the popular thing today” — Brenda Boyd Anderson

“Indoor racquet ball” — Freddy Baxter “Skate park!” — Daniel Gallegos

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Glen Ray Wood

Glen Ray Wood, 85, of Plant City, born in El Dorado, Arkansas on Robert Michael “ Mike” Willis, 57, of July 18, 1935, entered into eternal Dover, born in Tampa on October 1, rest on January 20, 2021. Expressions of condolence at 1963, entered into eternal rest on HopewellFuneral.com. January 16, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Barbara Jean Brown Barbara “Bobbie” Jean Brown, 83, of Plant City, born on November 4, 1937, entered into eternal rest on January 16, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Edison ‘Sam’ Willye Smith

Vickie Carol Spears, 62, of Tampa, passed away on January 20, 2021. A Memorial Service was Edison “Sam” Willye Smith, 100, of Plant City, born in Tennessee on held January 26, 2021 at Haught September 18, 1920, entered into Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. eternal rest on January 22, 2021. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Online condolences may be left Expressions of condolence for the family at haught.care. at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Mary Nell Godfrey Mary Nell Godfrey, 82, of Auburndale, born in Glennville, Georgia on January 1, 1939, entered into eternal rest on January 21, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Vickie Carol Spears

Cliff Davis Cliff Davis, 76, of Lithia, born in Sparta, Tennessee on November 4, 1944, entered into eternal rest on January 24, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Ray Owen Jenkins Ray Owen Jenkins, 95, of Plant City, passed away on January 23, 2021. Ray was a United States Air Force veteran. Services will be held privately. Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

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James Woodsen Hays James Woodsen Hays, 83, of Plant City, born in St. Petersburg on April 23, 1937, entered into eternal rest on January 12, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Bobby Dee Hogan

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Rev. Bobby Dee Hogan, 88, of Riverview, formerly of San Bernardino, California, born in Decatur, Arkansas on March 6, 1932, entered into eternal rest on January 24, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Jerry L. Eddlemon Jerry L. Eddlemon, 73, of Plant City, born in Dyer, Tennessee on August 3, 1947, entered into eternal rest on January 21, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

Forrest Glennon Haynes Forrest Glennon Haynes, 90, of Lakeland, passed away on January 19, 2021. Forrest was a United States Air Force veteran where he served four years in the Korean War era. Funeral services were held January 27, 2021 at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

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PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE

BEST BET FRIDAY, JANUARY 29 LAST FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN

5 to 9 p.m. Head to downtown Plant City on the last Friday evening of every month (except November and December) for live music, a food truck rally and a market. There is a new theme each month and the event is family and pet-friendly. This month, pirates will invade downtown in a Gasparilla-inspired event where vendors will also hand out beads, coins and more pirate treasure. Wearing pirate attire is highly encouraged.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28

SATURDAY, JANUARY 30

PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS

PLANT CITY CHILIFEST COOKOFF

7:30 to 9 a.m. Join the Plant City Toastmasters for breakfast, laughs, and fun; there's no better way to start your Thursday mornings. Bring a chair and a mask. The Toastmasters also offer Zoom meetings for those who can’t make it in person. Visit the Facebook page, facebook.com/ PlantCityToastmasters/, for meeting locations and information.

BATON TWIRLING CLASSES

Plant City Recreation presents Baton Twirling Classes at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St. Classes are held every Thursday. Beginner classes are from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. and Intermediate classes are from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Your first class will be free. If you have any questions or would like more information, contact Barbara Patrick at 813-626-4554.

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Arts Council of Plant City is hosting its annual Plant City Chilifest Cookoff at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, 102 N. Palmer St. Come on out and enjoy a variety of homemade chili and vote on your favorite chef. The chili tasting is $5 per person and there is a people’s choice competition as well as awards for the judges’ picks.

BEGINNING RUMBA/CHA CHA CHOREOGRAPHED BALLROOM LESSONS

10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Strawberry Square Dance Center, 4401 Promenade Blvd. Learn basic steps that you can use at social events. Cost is $7.00 per lesson per person. Social distancing, no changing partners. Call 864-723-6965.

6 to 9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Square Dance Center, 4401 Promenade Blvd. Plant City Social Dance will have dances every Saturday night in the month of January at the Strawberry Square Dance Center. From 6 to 6:30 p.m., there will be ballroom music for ballroom dancers. The regular dance goes from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.The cost to dance is $7 per person and attendance is limited to 50 people with reservations. Call DJ Ken Miller at 863-409-7714 to reserve your spot and visit djkenmiller.com to look at sample playlists and get more information.

SICK HOT AND DEPRIME LIVE AT KRAZY KUP

7 to 8:30 p.m. Sick Hot is coming back to the loft at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., to play its brand of 70s-inspired rock with special guest Deprime. Tickets are $10 per person and available on Eventbrite. Seating is limited.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2 GRIEFSHARE AT HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Following the death of a loved one you may have found that there are not many people who understand the deep hurt you feel. To help the many members of the Plant City, Lakeland and Brandon communities dealing with those feelings of emptiness, loneliness and hurt, Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 North Park Road, will again offer GriefShare, a special seminar and support group for

those grieving the loss of loved ones, every Tuesday in 13-week morning and evening sessions. During this time of COVID-19, all participants are required to wear a face mask during class and to socially distance. To register for either class or for more information contact Hope Lutheran at 813752-4622.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3 FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY VETERANS

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served any time in the military, retired or non-retention, and would like to review your benefits, please take advantage of free assistance at the Bing House Museum, 205 Allen St., every Wednesday. Walk-ins welcomed or call 813-704-5800 to set a specific time. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken at the door.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR ESTRANGED PARENTS

6:30 to 8 p.m. at GracePoint Church, 1107 Charlie Griffin Road. Join other parents who are estranged from their adult children. PEAK (Parents of Estranged Adult Kids) group provides a safe place to listen, share and support others going through the hurt of adult family abandonment. Meetings will include group discussions, self-care and positive influenced activities to help cope with the situation. Meetings are the first Wednesday of each month. For more information, visit peaksupportgroup. com.

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THURSDAY, JAN. 28 High: 65 Low: 40 Chance of rain: 0%

FRIDAY, JAN. 29 High: 67 Low: 44 Chance of rain: 5%

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Jan. 28

7:17a

6:06p

Friday, Jan. 29

7:16a

6:06p

Saturday, Jan. 30

7:16a

6:07p

Sunday, Jan. 31

7:15a

6:08p

Monday, Feb. 1

7:15a

6:09p

Tuesday, Feb. 2

7:14a

6:10p

Wednesday, Feb. 3

7:14a

6:10p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, JAN. 30 High: 74 Low: 54 Chance of rain: 5%

SUNDAY, JAN. 31 High: 79 Low: 59 Chance of rain: 5%

MONDAY, FEB. 1 Toni Colon shared her photo of two cute critters enjoying a walk on a foggy Jan. 23 morning to her Instagram, @earth_to_toni.

ONLINE

High: 67 Low: 45 Chance of rain: 50%

Across 1 Furniture chain that also sells lingonberry jam 5 Highlander 9 Irritable 14 December temp 16 Overseas coppers 17 March commander 19 Count who has a cameo in “Blazing Saddles” 20 Thus far 21 Airport with many connecting flights 22 Rathskeller rejection 25 Tenants 28 SFO overseer 31 Not just assume

33 Merit badge spot 34 Gaga over 36 Shellfish serving 38 Smug look 41 March composer 44 Fritters away time 45 French 101 verb 46 Old Russian ruler 47 Not demanding 49 Citrus peel 51 Greener Living org. 52 English blue cheese 55 Whiskey cocktail 57 Form 1099 org. 58 “Wonder Woman” actress Gadot 60 Run out 64 March creator

69 Hides in the shadows 70 “Shape of You” Grammy winner 71 Direct 72 “Gone Girl” actress Ward 73 “Queen of Country,” familiarly Down 1 Website for looking up “that actor on that show” 2 __ Zor-El: Supergirl’s name on Krypton 3 Yale students 4 Totally wiped 5 Moo goo __ pan

6 “Commonwealth” novelist Patchett 7 “Unique everything” online shop 8 “Gotta run!” 9 PC core 10 Copying button 11 Music to a bar customer’s ears 12 Really clean 13 Some Slavs 15 Stylishly smooth 18 GPS displays 23 Go very slowly 24 “I’m not kidding!” 26 Torments with reminders 27 Letter-shaped opening 28 “Natural artesian water” brand 29 Give __ to: okay 30 Fashionable sportswear portmanteau 32 Ballroom dance 35 Tatum who plays Amanda in “The Bad News Bears” 37 Tangle around a surge protector 39 Pronto 40 “Teen Titans” and “Teen Titans Go!” voice actress Strong 42 Hissed summons 43 100 centavos 48 Tranquil discipline 50 Veil material 52 Opera great Beverly 53 Brook fish 54 Identifies 56 Regatta entrant 59 Put on cargo 61 Peruse, with “over” 62 Wild guess 63 Italian peak 65 ‘50s prez 66 Pre-1991 atlas initials 67 Couture monogram 68 “I’ve got it!”

Feb. 11 New

Feb. 16 First

Jan. 28 Full

Feb. 7 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

0.00 in.

0.46 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

JAN. AVERAGE:

00.46 in.

2.72 in.

STRAWBERRIES Shipping point: Central Florida $16-$20.90

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021

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