10.14.21 PLCO by Plant City Observer

FREE • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021

VOLUME 6, NO. 166

NEW STUDENTS MAY MEAN NEW PLANT CITY SCHOOLS BRIAN FERNANDES

Growth projections show more kids moving in.

STAFF WRITER

On Monday, a proposal to address potential student growth in Plant City, was presented before the City Commission. As part of the Hillsborough County School Board’s agenda, three scenarios have been con-

sidered. It’s a part of the board’s Plant City Area Long Range School Plan. Amber Dickerson of the county’s school board was present alongside Nilgum Kamp of the transportation agency Oliver Tindale. At the commission meeting they laid out citywide statistics

pertaining to the influx f new residents to Plant City. Based on the school board’s findin s, a need was seen for new schools to accommodate the number of children projected to come. In turn, the board has devised a 15-year plan to indicate how many should be built.

“Two years ago we identified that obviously there is going to be more growth coming to Plant City,” said Dickerson. Findings show that within the fi st fi e years, one elementary school will be needed.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

PLANT CITY’S FIGHT AGAINST BREAST CANCER BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Courtesy of the Plant City Police Department

Plant City residents have the opportunity to purchase pink patches or pink keychain fobs during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The proceeds will go toward the South Florida Baptist Hospital Cancer Resource Center - ‘A Place for Her.’

With another October here, pink once again blossoms as people recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In its effort to support the cause, Plant City has implemented its fi st Pink Patch Project. Initiated by police departments nationwide, this campaign takes pink patches and pink keychain fobs, and puts them up for sale. The proceeds are sent to a selected hospital or organization that uses its resources to combat breast cancer. This year, The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and Plant Police Department are collaborating to do just that.

What’s more, Jim Scott, general manager of JarrettScott Ford, has joined as a sponsor. He helped to fund the pink memorabilia so it could be supplied and sold in Plant City. The items can be purchased at the Ford dealership as well as the Chamber of Commerce. The patches will be sold for $10 and the keychain fobs for $7 throughout October. All proceeds will go toward the South Florida Baptist Hospital Cancer Resource Center – ‘A Place for Her.’ In fact, the campaign got a head start in Plant City, selling patches and keychain fobs as early as May. “In my time here, we’ve tried to become more engaged with the community

through service projects,” said Plant City Police Chief James Bradford. He explained that when he took his command role in the department earlier this year, he had an agenda. The Pink Patch Project was part of it. “It’s pretty widespread throughout the country,” continued Bradford, “and I thought that would be a good, easy community involvement.” The chief reached out to Jodi Stevens, Medical Staff Services manager at South Florida Baptist Hospital. She herself is a breast cancer survivor and has been in remission for six years now. “He just asked me where could we donate proceeds to that would help and stay in our community,” explained Stevens.

THE CITY TAKES ON PINK PATCH PROJECT TO SUPPORT LOCAL HOSPITAL

‘A Place for Her’ could use funds to provide patients with wigs, scarfs and prosthetics. However, helping to provide resources isn’t new for the initiative. The campaign fi st began in 2013 where it sprang up among multiple police departments in California, then venturing out to other regions of the U.S. Now eight years in, the Pink Patch Project has become a global effort amassing hundreds of agencies, including sheriff, fi e, EMS and federal departments. Breast cancer in women is almost the most common type, just second to skin cancer.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS

Photo courtesy of South Florida Baptist Hospital

Kiwanis Club announces 2021 Coolest Dog Contest Do you have the coolest dog around? The Kiwanis Club of Plant City has opened the 2021 Coolest Dog Contest for another year of fun competition. The contest is open to all dogs, no matter their size or where they live. Help prove that you have the coolest dog around while also helping the Kiwanis Club’s programs that benefit hundreds of kids by way of back-to-school backpacks full of schools supplies and toys for the underserved kids at Christmas. After all the submissions are accounted for, the dog with the most votes will be crowned 2021’s “Coolest Dog in Plant City” and receive a fi st place medal, a $300 gift card, a “Coolest Dog” bandana and be featured on the Kiwanis Club of Plant City’s Facebook page. There will also be great prizes for the second and third place winners, as well as “Cool Dog” bandanas for the pups that finish be ween fourth and 10th place to wear proudly around the house or neighborhood. To enter your furry friend, head to www.gogophotocontest.com/kiwanisclubplantcity and complete the entry Courtesy of Judy Wise

form. The cost to enter is just $10 and includes 10 votes. Once you’ve entered, send the unique link to friends and family on social media and so that they too can vote for your cool dog. Each vote costs $1 and you can vote as many times as you wish. If you don’t have a dog or don’t wish to participate, but would still like to play your part in supporting the cause, you can join the friends and business sponsors of the contest. To sponsor, email Sharon Moody at sharonmoody91@yahoo.com or Gil Gott at gvgott@gmail.com The contest ends on Nov. 15 at 11:59 p.m., so sign up your cool dog or join as a sponsor today.

South Florida Baptist Hospital to break ground on new location South Florida Baptist Hospital will celebrate the groundbreaking on its new building next week. In August of last year, the hospital announced that it was planning to relocate within Plant City, allowing for improved access to health care services to the city and its surrounding communities.

The new hospital will employee around 800 team members and over 250 physicians throughout a site that includes six floo s and two six-story towers, covering 420,000 square feet. All of the hospital’s 146 rooms will be private and it’s being built with the ability to add an additional 30 rooms for future expansion. SFBH opened its doors in 1953 and since then has undergone 12 major additions, now leaving the site for no remaining room for future expansion. Construction is underway, the new hospital hopes to be up and running in early 2024 and there will be no disruption to current services and patients, physicians or staff at the current hospital while the new one is being built. The groundbreaking will be held at 3211 N. Wilder Road on Monday, Oct. 18 at 10 a.m. and the new location is off of Exit 22 of I-4, east of the intersection of E. Sam Allen Road and N. Park Road. The spade used for the hospital’s original groundbreaking in 1947 has been preserved and will be used at Monday’s groundbreaking.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021

RAILFEST MET WITH HUGE TURN-OUT WITH ALL ENGINES RUNNING, RAILFEST BROUGHT MUCH EXCITEMENT TO PLANT CITY BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

The Plant City 6th Annual Railfest proved eventful as a multitude of patrons turned out in celebration Saturday. Just outside of the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, various organizations lined the premises with stands, offering something to promote or contribute to the public. Among them included the local cub scouts, City Pointe Church, the American Cancer Society and Plant City Main Street, to name a few. Also present was the Chris Welbon Karate Club. Not only did they have something informative to share at the stand, but the club’s youth showed off their block-breaking skills during a demonstration. Fifteen-year-old Nathan Gould was part of the performance which was met with much applause. He said that joining his class helped him make new friends and he’s currently working toward his black belt. One of the spectators in the crowd was Nathan’s motherKerry, who watched her son with pride. “Karate is the best thing for my kid,” she noted. “It’s just teaching him discipline [and] confidence. It’s just helped him develop as a good person.” Eric Barber is the president of the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum Society. The organization’s purpose is to educate others about Plant City’s railroad history.

As the festivities began, he gazed out toward the jovial crowd as they enjoyed themselves. The COVID pandemic caused the cancellation of what would have been the 2020 Railfest. “It really makes me feel good,” Barber said about Railfest’s return this year. “It’s so nice to see people getting out and exploring our heritage.” He also added that the museum’s popularity never ceases, as its viewing platform “is ranked one of the best in the country every year.” Later Barber helped to host an auction, displaying model trains and artwork among other items. Of course, it was hard not to spot Henry B. Plant as he greeted visitors with a smile and a friendly hello throughout the day. “I’ve had the honor of playing Henry Plant on many occasions,” said Mike Norton, who once again reprised his role as the historical figure. He too, was ecstatic about Railfest’s return. “It is wonderful to be back,” exclaimed Norton. “The people that come here like the idea of railroads and they should. Railroads brought Plant City to the world, and the world to Plant City.” Local cub scout group- Pack 734, made an appearance at their first Railfest. At their stand, they had popcorn for sale and were eager to gain new recruits. Troop leader Allen Dethloff said he has seen progression in Downtown Plant City and believes that Railfest will add to its growth.

However, the scouts weren’t the only kids dressed in uniform. Marching in alignment, with flags in hand, the Plant City High School JROTC did the presentation of colors. And one activity that both kids and adults enjoyed was the Railfest’s newest addition- Henry’s Hidden Train Hunt. In this adventure, participants, with a guided map, walked around downtown seeking 10 hidden trains. In some cases, hunters didn’t have to look far to find models. One boy pointed with excitement when he found a train right outside the museum. Jillian Wilder is the president of Plant City Main Street, which implemented this new feature. She said she was relieved to see the scavenger hunt finally come to fruition, especially after a year of seeing no Railfest activities. Wilder went on to mention plans to make Henry’s Hidden Train Hunt a part of the fest every year. There may even be more trains added to the search next year. However, 3-year-old Tucker had his mind set on riding in a train as he was accompanied with his grandmother, Connie Lowe. He led the way while she followed his little footsteps. Lowe has been a 28-year resident of Plant City and it was her first time taking Tucker to Railfest. “I enjoy just being up here with everybody,” she said, “and the fact that it’s historic.” Lowe also mentioned that the smell of good food is what caught

her attention when walking to the function. That was courtesy of Kevin Ware who had the aroma of hot dogs and burgers filling the air. His grill was stationed between the museum parking lot and the festivities- a location where the food would be the first attraction. Ware, a Plant City native, also brought along his Umami Smoke food truck which has been in business for two years now. Beyond the smell of cooking, came the sound of live music as visitors walked closer to the museum. The Alex Belliveau Jazz Quartet used live instrumentation to add a soothing atmosphere to the fest. And DJ Cliff Brown also took to the stage using his turntable equipment to provide a more upbeat vibe. He mentioned that he was pleased to make a contribution to Railfest. Although Brown has lived in

major cities like Atlanta and Los Angeles, he said that both “family and humility” are what ultimately brought him back to his native Plant City. “We don’t want people to continue to leave Plant City,” Brown stated. “The more events we can have, the more we can come together as a community.”

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, O CTOBER 14, 2021

PLANT CITY C.A.R.E.S. TEAM HOLDS HELPING HANDS OUTREACH EVENT In partnership with several local organizations and surrounding law enforcement agencies, the C.A.R.E.S. Team organized the event in an attempt to lift up their homeless community. TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

The Plant City C.A.R.E.S. Team held their fi st Helping Hands Outreach Event on Tuesday in partnership with several law enforcement agencies across the Tampa Bay Area, including the Plant City Police Department, the Tampa Police Department, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department and the Tampa International Airport Police. The C.A.R.E.S. Team — Creativity - Action - Research - Expertise - Solutions — is a team of employees across several different departments within the City of Plant City to come up with innovative ays to address various situations that effect their local community. The event was aimed at providing necessary resources to the

homeless community in Plant City by providing them access to a number of organizations that would not solely provide them with crucial short-term assistance like haircuts, clothes, mobile shower units and meals, but leave a tangible impact on their future by providing access to healthcare, vaccinations, housing, substance abuse treatment and mental health services. “This is extremely important because what we’re doing is try to provide people with the opportunity to improve, or make better, because a lot of [the homeless population] are in certain situations or circumstances that they didn’t ask for,” Plant City Chief of Police James Bradford said. “So if we can provide them with a leg up or an opportunity, and they have the drive and the willingness to do it, they can help themselves. We

are trying to help them, but we’re also trying to give them ownership of making these changes.” Master Deputy Stephanie Krager with HCSO’s Behavioral Resource Unit said that the department holds these events quarterly in different areas throughout the county, with an emphasis being put on local organizations to ensure that they can service the community right here in Plant City. Plant City Police officer and C.A.R.E.S Team member Billy Harvester developed a partnership with the surrounding agencies to organize the event, along with the rest of the C.A.R.E.S. Team, after attending a previous outreach event held by HCSO in Apollo Beach earlier in the year. He echoed Krager’s statement. “We wanted to make sure that our providers here are providers that will provide a service in Plant City,” Harvester said. “We wanted local folks and that’s what we ended up with, people who said, ‘We service Plant City, we are local, we are here, we will come here and we will help you.’ The support has been amazing, the turnout has been good and we hope to keep building on it moving forward.”

Outside of the Planteen Rec Center where they event was held, Showered and Empowered provided showers, Bags of Brotherly Love provided hygiene and snack bags, HCSO provided clothing and volunteers from the LaSalle Tech School of Cosmetology provided haircuts and other beauty services. Inside there were meals provided by Plant City’s Wooden Spoon Diner, as well as several booths that individuals could stop at for assistance In addition to various other organizations in attendance and services that were made available, the Florida Dept. of Health provided several different vaccinations while also offering free COVID-19 testing along with Frontline Community Services. The Office of the Public Defender offered assistance with open court cases or warrants. Metropolitan Ministries Metro BrigAIDe offered assistance with identifi ation, food stamps, Medicade, social security assessment and enrollment and housing assessments/referrals. St. Vincent DePaul offered assistance and housing for homeless veterans, Community Pet Project provided animal services and products. “The contacts that we’ve made, everybody has been super willing to get involved and help us here in Plant City,” Harvester said. “You can see the outcome. We’ve got folks here from all over the place that want to help and their heart is in the right place.

PLANT CITY

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PLANT CITY TAKES ON PROJECT TO SUPPORT LOCAL HOSPITAL PROCEEDS SUPPORT SOUTH FLORIDA BAPTIST HOSPITAL CANCER RESOURCE CENTER

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021

NEW STUDENTS MAY MEAN NEW PLANT CITY SCHOOLS Growth Projections Show More Kids Moving In

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

In the U.S, there are currently over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors, according to the American Cancer Society. It goes on to state that the average woman has about a 13% chance of developing it. Risk factors may include inherited genes or aging. “As you get older, your risk of breast cancer goes up,” states the American Cancer Society. “Most breast cancers are found in women age 55 and older.” And while the number of cases are found predominantly in women, men too, are subject to this form of cancer. Plant City Police Captain Alfred Van Duyne understands these statistics and mentioned that cancer doesn’t care “if it’s an opportune time or not, to affect someone.” He is one of many officers who has shown support by donning pink whether in uniform or not. Law enforcement officers have custommade badges with pink borders, and pink pins for ties and collars. “Everyone, again, is able to at least represent if you don’t have your badge on you that day,” said Van Duyne. “You can wear this and still be visible, still be able to stimulate that conversation.” Even the back of patrol cars have been adorned with pink ribbons. As a result, Plant City residents have offered their thanks and have shared their personal stories.

Van Duyne said that at an event, “another single gentleman came up and said that he had lost his wife to breast cancer, so he was very appreciative of this.” “They’re proud the money is raised here in town, will stay here in town and help our own,” added Stevens. The police department as well as the Chamber of Commerce have used Facebook as a platform for getting the word around about the project initiative. Also, a Coffee with a Cop event gave offi ers an opportunity to put up a stand and sell almost $200 worth of merchandise. And there are no plans for the momentum to slow down soon. The project is expected to continue beyond October. On Thursday, Dec. 9, the Chamber of Commerce will announce how much funds have been accumulated for the hospital. “As a survivor, it’s amazing,” said Stevens. “It’s so warming, and to know that everybody’s got your back when you’re going through a difficult ti .”

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Kamp said that $10 million is already set aside to purchase land. Also, two additional elementary school sites, one middle school site and one high school site should be identified or potential needs from the fourth to the eight year of the 15-year time frame. The percentage of Plant City homes built out of the whole county will suggest how many schools may be needed. Here are three scenarios: • 4% growth may result in one elementary school and one high school • 6% growth may result in two elemen-

tary schools, one middle school and one high school • 11% growth may result in four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school The Long Range Transportation Plan will be reevaluated and updated every two years. The presentation was to keep the City Commission up to date with the Hillsborough County School Board’s plans. No action was needed by the City Commission.

OCTOBER 14, 2021

SPORTS

DURANT HIGH SCHOOL TO HOLD INAUGURAL ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTION DURING REDMAN CUP MATCHUP WITH PLANT CITY

The Durant Cougars will look to snap Plant City’s three-year Redman Cup winning streak as fi e former students are inducted to their Athletic Hall of Fame’s inaugural class. TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

This week Durant High School will play host to the Redman Cup Rivalry, the annual meeting between the rival Plant City Raiders and Durant Cougars. More than just bragging rights will be on the line for Friday’s matchup, however, as the Raiders will look to remain on top of the 8A District 10 standings while Durant hopes to gain ground on Plant City and Newsome who sit just above them. Durant has jumped out to an impressive start, heading into Friday with a 6-1 record and their lone loss on the season coming in another local rivalry against another district foe in Newsome. Across town, Plant City enters the game with a 4-2 record on the year, with their two losses coming only to the nationallyranked Jesuit Tigers and the undefeated Tampa Bay Tech Titans. Plant City has left victorious in six of the past 10 Redman Cup matchups, including the last three. But a young and talented

Durant squad, led by alumnus and firstyear head coach Claybo Varnum, is determined to end that streak. In addition to the game itself, Durant will be inducting five alumni into their inaugural Durant High School Athletic Hall of Fame class. The class will include Deshaydia Mackey, Denny Oest, Teri Ohme, Jorge Salmeron and Trae Williams. Mackey attended Durant from 1999 to 2003, earning her mark as the best girls’ basketball player in the school’s history. Over her four years with the Cougars, Mackey led the team in every offensive category before going on to letter at the University of Tampa from 2004 to 2008. Her legacy remains at Durant as a trophy in her name is awarded yearly to the winner of the Durant/Plant City girls basketball game where the trophy then resides with the winning school for the remainder of the calendar year, much like the Redman Cup. Oest was the first Athletic Director at Durant, serving from 1995 to 2000. He was

responsible for creating schedules, ordering uniforms, overseeing the construction of athletic facilities and hiring of the athletic staff and embodied the school’s motto of, “Where Students Pursue Their Dreams.” After his time at Durant, Oest served as the principal at two different Hillsborough County sites before becoming the district’s assistant superintendent for curriculum. Ohme was Durant’s first volleyball coach and the most successful coach in school history. Her teams reached the state tournament in all nine years under her lead from 1995 to 2003. Ohme’s first team made a run to the State Final Four despite having no seniors and her 1999 squad won the school’s first State Championship. She then followed this accomplishment up with two state titles over the next three seasons. Ohme is now a teacher at Newsome High School. Jorge Salmeron was a three-sport athlete at Durant and graduated in 2000, making his mark on cross country, soccer and

track. Salmeron was the first Durant student to qualify for the State Cross Country Championships and held the school’s 5K record for several years. He later attended Florida Southern College where he competed for their cross country team. Salmeron continues to give back to the Durant community as he serves as the school’s migrant advocate. Williams ran track and was a star for Durant’s football team from 1999-2003, remembered locally for his four-touchdown performance in an underdog victory over Lakeland High School as a senior, leading to his Class 5A, all-state secondteam selection. Williams continued his football career at the University of South Florida where he would become a secondteam All-Big East defensive back in 2007 before being selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fifth round of the 2008 NFL Draft and spending three seasons in the league.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

REAL ESTATE

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021 REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS Local September 2021 sales and trend information courtesy of The Crawford Group.

Should I Buy now or wait? Many are contemplating waiting, thinking that the market must fall at some point and that they would see lower price points. The fallacy to that point is inventory. For the past year, we have had less than one month’s supply of homes to purchase. That inventory would need to increase over two to three times the current levels to see any substantial drop in price and that will take time, probably 12 to 18 months out. The other issue while waiting those 12 to 18 months is the financial l an rates. The industry’s current average 30-year rate is about three percent, but the Federal Reserve has already mentioned tapering of the bond purchases before the end of the year, resulting in higher loan rates. In that same period, we are looking for increased inventory, lower price points and the loan rates could potentially increase to 3.75 percent to 4.25 percent. So, waiting the 12 to 18 months for lower or stable price points will increase your interest payments 25 percent to 40 percent. If you’re in the market to buy, waiting is not on your side. The month of September shows the Plant City area had 87 homes closed, 128 homes under contract and 73 homes available to purchase. We continue in a seller’s market, but the month over month price increases have leveled somewhat.

This month’s average selling price was $314,534 compared to $301,982 last month, a 4.2 percent price increase over prior month. The average days to contract have increased slightly to 13.7 days in September, but remain below the year-to-date average of 17.21 days. We are going into a slower selling season with all of the upcoming holidays through the end of the year but maintain that we will finish the ear up 18-19 percent in value. If you’re in the market to buy or sell a property your main concern should be to team up with a seasoned real estate professional and let them assist you in navigating through this entire process. SEPTEMBER 2021 SALES SNAPSHOT The following properties were a sample listed as sold on the Greater Tampa Realtors Association MLS in Sep 2021. The home at 2011 Cedar Run Dr sold Sep 17 for $165,000. Built in 1982, it has 2 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1180 square feet of living area. The home at 153 Alexander Wood Dr sold Sep 22 for $199,000. Built in 2016, it has 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and 1466 square feet of living area.

The home at 7013 Whalens Hideaway

St sold Sep 27 for $210,000. Built in 1996, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1402 square feet of living area. The home at 513 N Franklin St sold Sep 3 for $230,000. Built in 1922 it has 5 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1584 square feet of living area. The home at 2108 N Warnell St sold Sep 3 for $240,000. Built in 1986, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1244 square feet of living area. The home at 3457 Silver Meadow Way sold Sep 10 for $260,000. Built in 1993, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and 1537 square feet of living area. The home at 1612 Mcleod Dr sold Sep 30 for $285,000. Built in 1977, it has 4 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1422 square feet of living area. The home at 6417 Fletcher Rd sold Sep 2 for $295,000. Built in 2019, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and 1680 square feet of living area. The home at 2614 Bridle Dr sold Sep 17 for $314,000. Built in 1986, it has 3

bedrooms, 2 baths and 1818 square feet of living area. The home 2405 S Wiggins Rd sold Sep 15 for $345,000. Built in 1978, it has 3 bedrooms, 3 baths and 1977 square feet of living area. The home at 1813 Via Chianti St sold Sep 27 for $360,000. Built in 2015, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and 2171 square feet of living area. The home at 2910 Barret Ave sold Sep 10 for $425,000. Built in 1989, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and 2666 square feet of living area. The home at 3701 Swindell Rd sold Sep 21 for $630,000. Built in 2021, it has 5 bedrooms, 3 baths and 3116 square feet of living area. The home at 3058 Sutton Woods Dr sold Sep 2 for $731,250. Built in 1999, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and 2855 square feet of living area. The home at 8601 Paul Buchman Hwy sold Sep 16 for $791,565. Built in 1977, it has 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and 3456 square feet of living area.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021

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We asked Plant City: What are some of your favorite Halloween events, traditions or activities? “My favorite thing to do on Halloween, as far as activities, is to sit around the campfire and sharing scary stories. My parents, when we were kids, they used to run behind us while telling us a story about the boogeyman or something, then pop out at us. So that’s like my favorite thing, something scary.” - Sophie Willis “My favorite activity for around Halloween every year would be a scavenger hunt.” - Darcy Stottlemyer

“My friend has a tradition where he and his mom, they would grab their friends and they’ll go to Sir Henry’s Haunted Trails. They have a lot of really cool, spooky things around. It was my first year going and it was actually a lot of fun and really scary.” -Catherine Badve

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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Robert Ben Bacle Juan Daniel Robert Ben Bacle, 50, of Espinoza

Robbie N. Shupp, 74, of Bartow, Fla., born in Dothan, Ala. on Jan. 17, 1947, entered into eternal rest on Oct. 2, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Valrico, Fla., born in Carrollton, Ga. on Nov. 2, 1970, entered into eternal rest on Oct.11, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Nicky Estrella Nicky Estrella, 27, of Plant City, Fla., born on Sept. 4, 1994 in Plant City, entered into eternal rest Oct. 3, 2021. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Ronald “Ronnie” William Mason, Jr., 71, of Plant City, Fla., born in Tampa on July 5, 1950, entered into eternal rest on Oct. 9, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

community

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is all about.

Jeremiah Antonio Mendez Ordonez Manuel A. ‘Manny’ Silva

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Manuel A. “Manny” Silva, 65, of Thonotosassa, Fla., born on Jan. 30, 1956 in Catano, Puerto Rico entered into eternal rest Oct. 4, 2021. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

Theresa ‘Terri’ Elizabeth Sansonetti

Taking care of each other is what

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My precious child, Jeremiah Antonio Mendez Ordonez, 2, of Plant City, Florida, born February 14, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, entered into eternal rest September 30, 2021. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Henry Monroe Stewart Jr., 72, of Plant City, Fla. passed away on Oct. 8, 2021. Henry served in the United States Navy. The family will receive friends Friday, Oct. 15, 2021 from 10 to 11 a.m. at GraceWay Church, 3106 Wiggins Rd, Plant City, FL 33566. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haught.care.

Ruth Helen Herndon

Ruth Helen Herndon was born Aug. 27, 1939 in Plant City, Fla., and entered into rest Theresa (Terri) on Friday, Oct. 1, 2021 in Elizabeth SansonBrockwell, Ark. Ruth was etti, 88, passed 82. away She was survived by peacefully at James Lee Herndon for 25 home on Oct. 6, plus years; her 2021. The memodaughter, Dee Wallis; rial service viewing HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM grandson, Joshua Musick will be held at Haught (Sarah); great- grandFuneral Home, 708 W. Elizabeth “Betty” daughters, Addison and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Mentzer DuBois Keeley Musick; her sisters Blvd. Plant City, Fla. on Katherine and Deloris; and Oct. 18, 2021 from 12 to Elizabeth "Betty" Mentzer her brother, Jimmy. She will 3 p.m. A funeral mass will DuBois, 79, of Lake Wales, truly be missed by many be held at St. Joan of Arc Florida, born in Atlanta, nieces and nephews as well Catholic Church, 370 SW Georgia, entered into eternal as extended family and 3rd Street, Boca Raton, rest on October 8, 2021. HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM friends. She was preceded Fla. on Oct. 19, 2021 at 11 Expressions of condoin passing by her parents, a.m. The burial will immelence at HopewellFuneral. Arlington and Elizabeth diately follow the funeral com. Baker and her brother, Clar- mass at the Boca Raton ence. Cemetery & Mausoleum in Ruth loved her fl wers, Boca Raton, Fla. lived for the Lord, and many HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM times enjoyed watching television programs about we’re dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care sincechurch. 1896. the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, Eugene Robert Fondcelebrates memories and ex> 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability Dubay pressions sympathy may > Theof Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance be shared at www.WellsMeEugene Robert Dubay, R morial.com for the Herndon 88, of Plant City, Fla. Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. family. passed away on Oct. 3, 2021. Eugene was a United States Army Veteran. Services will be WELLSMEMORIAL.COM held privately. Online condolences may Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy be left for the family at 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com haught.care.

Juan Daniel Espinoza, 79, of Plant City, Fla., born on March 8, 1942 in San Miguel Tecotmatlan, Mexico, entered into eternal rest Oct. 8, 2021. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Ronald ‘Ronnie’ William Mason, Jr.

Henry Monroe Stewart Jr.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021

OBITUARIES

Robbie N. Shupp

10/27/15 10:42 AM

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

YOUR CALENDAR

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021

BEST BET THURSDAY, OCT. 16 FOX SQUIRREL CORN MAZE 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 3002 Charlie Taylor Rd. N. The Fox Squirrel Corn Maze began on Saturday, Oct. 9 and will run through Sunday, Oct. 24. The maze is open on weekends only from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and guests are asked to exit the venue by 6 p.m. In addition to the corn maze, vendors will be in attendance with pumpkin painting, arts and crafts, handmade children’s clothing, face painting, horse and pony rides and more. Admission is free for those under two years old, $10 plus tax for those age three through 17 and $11 for those 18 and older. The admission booth accepts Visa, Master Card and Discover cards in addition to cash, however several of the venders will be cash-only. For more information, visit www.FoxSquirrelCornMaze.com.

THURSDAY, OCT. 14

MONDAY, OCT. 18

PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS

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.

READING ADVENTURE KITS

SATURDAY, OCT. 16

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St. Head down to the Bruton Memorial Library to pick up your Reading Adventure Kits. The kits are available for children ranging from kindergarten to fifth g ade while supplies last. They’ll include puzzles, literacy activities, crafts and more. The kits will be available each Monday throughout October and this month’s kits will feature trains, robots, pumpkins and candy.

PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 20

6 to 9:30 p.m. at 4401 Promenade Blvd. DJ Ken will be hosting the Plant City Social Dance every Saturday throughout the month of October at the Strawberry Square Dance Center. Ballroom music will be available for ballroom dancers from 6 to 6:30 and the regular dance will follow from 6:30 to 9:30. Cups and water will be available and the event’s cost is $7 per person. For more information or a chance to look at sample playlists, visit www.djkenmiller.com.

STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN

3 to 6:30 p.m. at 102 N Palmer St. The Plant City Strawberry Cruise-In is back on Saturday, Oct. 16, rain or shine. Cars and trucks manufactured in or before 1996 can register for free starting at 3 p.m. Live music will be provided by DJ John Paul Gasca. The event takes place on the third Saturday of each month, featuring great music, food, vendors and classic cars.

Combine & Save. Good things happen when you combine your home and auto insurance with State Farm . Like saving an average of $894.* Plus, you’ll have a good neighbor like me to help life go right. CALL ME TODAY. ®

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Jimmy Fisher, Agent 6920 E Fowler Ave On Fowler Ave near I-75 Tampa, FL 33617 Bus: 813-989-2037 jimmy.fisher.caos@statefarm.com

1606205

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas, Dallas, TX State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm Florida Insurance Company, Winter Haven, FL State Farm Lloyds, Richardson, TX

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 benefi s 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 tim .

SUNSET SOUNDS

6 to 8 p.m. at 5202 Thonotosassa Rd. Sunset Sounds is a summer music series featuring acoustic music from local artists. Head over to Keel & Curley Winery every Wednesday evening to enjoy music, food, drinks and sunshine on their patio.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FORECAST

Send your photo submissions to staff writer Taylor Jenkins at tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

THURSDAY, OCT 14 High: 91 Low: 70 Chance of rain: 9%

FRIDAY, OCT 15 High: 90 Low: 70 Chance of rain: 10%

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Oct 14

7:28a

6:59p

Friday, Oct 15

7:29a

6:58p

Saturday, Oct 16

7:29a

6:57p

Sunday, Oct 17

7:30a

6:56p

Monday, Oct 18

7:31a

6:55p

Tuesday, Oct 19

7:31a

6:54p

Wednesday, Oct 20

7:32a

6:53p

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, OCT 16 High: 91 Low: 69 Chance of rain: 7%

SUNDAY, OCT 17 High: 86 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 3%

MONDAY, OCT 18 Karen Butler took this photo of an evening sun setting over Plant City.

ONLINE

High: 86 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 3%

Nov. 4 New

Oct. 20 Full

Nov. 11 First

Oct. 28 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

1.43 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

OCT. AVERAGE:

44.87 in.

2.36 in.

CUCUMBER Shipping point: South Florida $16.90-$20.90

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

Your One Stop Shop For All Parties, Events & Reunions! Choice Meats • Meat Bundles • Specialty Meats • Produce • Smoke House • Groceries 617 N. Maryland Ave. • Plant City 813-752-1548 (C) 2021 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Across 1 “Field of Dreams” state 5 Easing of govt. control 10 Snow glider 14 Iranian ruler ousted in 1979 15 Teaser ad 16 Buzzing colony 17 Energy-boosting munch 19 “Be it __ so humble ... “ 20 Former SeaWorld attraction 21 Meadowland 22 Convenience store inconvenience 23 Explosive container for muzzle-loading guns 27 Miss a birdie by one

31 Base runner’s undoing 32 Not fer 33 Qualifying race 36 Waterproof fishing boo 40 Period or comma 43 With regret 44 __ Ration: old dog food brand 45 Opera star Pinza 46 Covert __: secret missions 48 Lip applications 50 Escape from jail 55 __ Emu: insurance ad bird 56 Dublin’s land: Abbr. 57 Lauder of makeup 62 Seaweed gelatin

63 Shredded Southern barbecue dish that’s depicted in this puzzle’s circles 66 Buster Brown’s dog 67 Cybercommerce 68 Word after cutting or leading 69 Poetic tributes 70 Battle of the __ 71 Stack under a tarp Down 1 Web access cos. 2 “I know! Call on me!” 3 Toddler’s drink 4 “Can I get a word in?” 5 Two-outs-in-a-single-AB stats

6 East end? 7 Author Dahl 8 Ceremony host 9 Low-riding, open-wheel racer 10 Sleight-of-hand scams 11 Wife of Augustus 12 Odds opposite 13 Jeter elected to the Hall of Fame 18 Kentucky’s __ Arena 24 Island near Maui 25 Inflic , as havoc 26 Stag’s daughter 27 Weather report visual aids 28 Isla surrounder 29 “Be __: rewind”: old video rental reminder 30 Extras in an envelope 34 Didn’t fast 35 Hint of color 37 Häagen-__ 38 The “E” in the mnemonic HOMES 39 Bygone theaters 41 Keying-in error 42 Cantina crockery 47 “Blade” star Wesley 49 Gave the nod to 50 Student of Socrates 51 Stiff as a b ard 52 Public persona 53 “Et tu, __?” 54 “No reason to get all upset!” 58 Eject, as lava 59 Chore list heading 60 Hence, in logic 61 Barely made it, with “by” 64 Tell it like it isn’t 65 Golf’s “Big Easy” Ernie

LL Wiiiams & Karen Davis OWNERS OF FELTON'S

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021

Don’t let fear stop you from getting the care you need. Don’t delay getting essential medical care. We’ve put enhanced safety measures in place to help keep you safe. COVID-19 has stopped people from doing many things. But we can’t let it stop us from getting what we need most: medical care. BayCare is helping to keep our patients safe by following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for safety processes and cleaning procedures. This makes sure that everyone can feel secure getting the care they need. Don’t let fear of this pandemic make other health conditions worse. Learn more about how we’re keeping you safe: BayCare.org/Safety

21-1392274-0221

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