10.19.23 PLCO by Plant City Observer

FREE • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

VOLUME 11, NO. 16

CONSTRUCTION OF NEW UTILITIES AND SOLID WASTE FACILITY TO SOON COMMENCE Manhattan Construction Company is expected to begin work on the administration building MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

In a move aimed at addressing longstanding deficiencies, lack of ADA requirements and a growing workforce, Plant City has embarked on a project to construct a spacious, modern 15,000 square-foot office building that will house both the Utilities and Solid Waste Departments.

The new building will include outdoor patios, retention ponds and 76 parking spaces to meet code requirements. The existing facility at 1802 Spooner Drive, housing more than 50 city employees, has served the city for decades but has become increasingly inadequate, requiring significant repairs and renovations. According to Utilities

Director Lynn Spivey, an evaluation showed that the cost to fix the issues was nearly as much as tearing the building down and erecting a new structure. “The number one problem is that the building isn’t ADA compliant,” said Spivey. “Even if we renovated, we’d have had to bring it up to current codes.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

CARVE OUT SOME TIME TO FIND A GOURD-GEOUS PUMPKIN

The pumpkin patch at First United Methodist Church is just one of several local spots to pick the perfect pumpkin and take a few selfies while there. Its hours through October 31 are 4:45 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends.

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NEWS

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

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Our Primary Care Doctor: Sandra Rodriguez Fernandez, MD Internal Medicine

Dr. Sandra Rodriguez Fernandez offers English and Spanish speaking appointments!

To make an appointment with Dr. Rodriguez Fernandez, please call 863.284.5000.

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REELIN’ WITH A RANGER REELS IN CROWD

TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR VETERANS AND ACTIVE DUTY EVENT

Dozens of entrants tried their luck at catching the biggest or most fish at Reelin’ with a Ranger last weekend. Brad Brown attended the tournament with his children, Braidyn (15) and Caleb (13). “We participated to share time with family and to support the sport of freshwater fishing among likeminded anglers of all ages,” said Brown. Brown’s team took home the win for the Most Fish Caught (five) and heaviest fish (6.9 pounds). His favorite part of the event? “Just seeing all of the kids, parents, grandparents and great grandparents share in the pastime of fishing in our home state of Florida,” he said. “Our team alone brought three generations to the water to reel them in.”

Two free tickets to Plant City’s annual veteran’s event are available for veterans and active-duty military (with military ID, DD214 or VA card). Tickets for nonveterans are $10 per person. This year’s event, honoring veterans and activity duty military, will take place Sunday, Nov. 5 at 1 p.m. at TECO Expo Hall and will feature a barbecue lunch provided by the Wooden Spoon, a keynote speaker, displays and more. Its keynote speaker is James S. “Hammer” Hartsell Major General, USMC (Retired). This event is a cooperative effort by the Plant City Elks Lodge, Plant City Main Street and the City of Plant City. Tickets are available at: Bruton Memorial Library, Plant City YMCA and Walden Lake Car Wash. For more information contact Judy Wise at 863-370-8389.

SPRINGHEAD PARK IMPROVEMENTS Pickleball players can look forward to plenty more places to play. Springhead Park, a Hillsborough County park located at 3410 Nesmith Rd., will soon say goodbye to the existing tennis courts. They will be replaced with four LED-lighted pickleball courts for a total projected cost of $520,000.

NO TRICKS/ALL TREATS Plant City Parks and Recreation is asking for candy donations to support its annual Monster Mash event. Pre-sealed candy donations are being accepted Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1904 S. Park Rd. The deadline to make a donation is Thursday, Oct. 26.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

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PIG JAM CELEBRATES ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY

LOOKING BACK, MOVING FORWARD CoCoRow moves into the former Badcock Furniture Building.

Tasty barbecue and fun for the entire family.

LIBBY HOPKINS STAFF WRITER

The 2023 Plant City Pig Jam presented by Citizens Bank & Trust is celebrating its 20th anniversary on Nov. 17-18. The event will be held at 1401 Gordon Food Service Dr. in Plant City. Mark Poppell of Poppell Insurance had the idea to create Pig Jam and is still a member of the planning committee for the event. He got the idea after attending a barbeque event in Vienna, Ga. “I was on the board of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce at the time, and I pitched the idea of having a barbeque event,” Poppell said. “A committee was formed and about two years later in 2003 we held our very first Pig Jam.” Twenty years later, Pig Jam is still going strong and growing every year. “I think it’s fantastic that Pig Jam is still a part of Plant City,” Poppell said. “I’ve been on the committee since day one and I love that this event is a true Plant City event. The whole community comes out and has two days of family fun and barbeque.” Citizens Bank & Trust is the presenting sponsor of Pig Jam and like Poppell, they are thrilled to be celebrating 20 years of

Pig Jam. “We love this event,” said Citizens Bank & Trust Plant City Vice President/ Branch Manager, Sandra Couch. “Everyone from my branch volunteers from the Wednesday before straight through Saturday. We also provide all the bags for the vendors and the Pig Bucks for everyone to purchase so they can buy from the vendors at Pig Jam. We are here to help in any way we can for the Pig Jam committee and the event.” Guests of Pig Jam will have some amazing barbeque to eat and a lot more to enjoy. While the grills are cooking the savory barbeque, there will be live music, a rockclimbing wall, moonwalks, and vendors for the whole family to enjoy. “We love seeing so many friends and family stop by our booth to try our barbeque,” Poppell said. “Pig Jam is the best barbeque event in the area, and we hope your readers will come out and join us for two days of some great fun and delicious barbeque.” If you’d like to learn more about Pig Jam, you can visit their website at www. plantcitypigjam.com or call The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce at 813754-3707. Admission to Pig Jam is free, the kids’ zone is free, and parking is $10.

Hayley Milks and her husband Will Montoto are moving into a portion of the former Badcock Furniture store located at 103 E. Martin Luther King Blvd. in downtown Plant City. They will be opening their new business, CoCoRow in about two months. Their building is one of the many beautiful buildings that make up the historical district of Plant City. The former Badcock Furniture store was built in 1909 and was a general store. In 1914 the building became a dry goods clothing store that sold hats, coats, and shoes. In 1939 the building became Badcock Furniture. Then in 1956 it became the Edwin Cunningham Furniture store. Interesting side note, up until 25 years ago, Martin Luther King Blvd. was originally named Haines Street. It has transitioned from a furniture store to law offices and then was vacant for some time before the Hollencamp brothers, Jay and Steven, bought the property along with several others. “The Hollencamps are wanting to breathe new life into these buildings, while keeping the historical look to them,” Montoto said. “We wanted to keep some of the beauty from the original building as well. We removed

the old office ceiling tile to expose the buildings original trusses. I will be installing Edison lights as well to give the building a more rustic look as well.” CocoRow is a sip and shop concept that will feature a smoothie bar, handmade custom jewelry, vintage clothing and vendor space. “We found the building after meeting with Dawn Hyatt, the Director of Plant City Main Street,” Milks said. “We are a vendor at their Last Friday event.” Milks is the owner of Beadnikrow, which is a custom, non-tarnish and waterproof jewelry business and her husband is the owner of Cocomos, which is a natural blends smoothie business. Hyatt told the couple about the different buildings in the Plant City area that were being restored by the Hollencamp brothers, Jay and Steven. “We looked at several of their properties and chose the old Badcock Furniture store because it was zoned for commercial and residential,” Milks said. “We like the idea of being able to live in the building where we will have our business.” The couple is excited for CoCoRow to open before the holiday season. “We are thrilled to become a part of the beautiful, historic Downtown Plant City,” Milks said. “We feel that CoCoRow will be the perfect addition to the many, amazing local stores that the downtown area has to offer.”

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COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

PLANT CITY

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police

Observer

Investigate: Trespassing and Outstanding Warrants.

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

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Domestic Disturbance Turned Deadly, Man Arrested and Charged With Murder

OCTOBER 10 You’ve Been Warned- Trespass After Warning Arrest 2000 Block of N. Wheeler Street Officers arrested a man for Trespass After Warning and Disorderly Intoxication. He was transported to Orient Road Jail. Purse Pilferer- Theft 2700 Block of Thonotosassa Rd. Officers met with the victim who advised them her purchase had been stolen three days earlier.

OCTOBER 11 Woman Wins Free Trip (To Jail)- Warrant Arrest 4000 Block of Rice Rd. Officers made contact with a woman who had an outstanding Polk County Warrant for FTA driving while her license was suspended or revoked. After the warrant was confirmed, she was taken into custody and transported to Orient Road Jail.

In the early morning hours of Oct. 12, at approximately 1 a.m., Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received a call that someone had been shot. When deputies arrived on the scene, near the 5800 block of U.S. Highway 92, they encountered Erick Gonzalez Garay, 27, and a woman, who was pronounced dead at the scene. After an investigation, detectives arrested Garay and transported him to Orient Road Jail for booking. He’s currently charged with the following: • Murder in the Second Degree Firearm-Great Bodily/ Harm Death • Tampering With Physical Evidence • Tampering With a Witness • Aggravated Assault With Intent to Commit a Felony with a Weapon “I condemn this heinous act of violence in the strongest terms, and I’m urging our community to come together, to look out for one another, and to speak out against domestic violence,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “We are here to protect and serve, and we will continue to do everything in our power to make our community a safer place for all.”

OCTOBER 12 Don’t Break The Glass- Criminal Mischief

Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com Staff Writer / Michelle Caceres michelle@plantcityobserver.com Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

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The Plant City Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The Plant City Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100B. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

100 Block of N. Wheeler St. Officers responded to a broken window at a residence. A waiver of prosecution was completed.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

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NEW BUILDING FOR UTILITIES AND SOLID WASTE EMPLOYEES TO SOON BEGIN The 15,000 square-foot building, situated next to the current structure, will feature many improvements.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Wheelchairs won’t fit in the restrooms. There’s no way to travel from the first to the windowless second floor, which was added onto the building more than a decade ago, without using the stairs. The list of deficiencies goes on from there. A leaking roof has caused mold to form around ceilings, walls and doorways. Employees on the second floor work with the lights off because water sometimes get trapped in fixtures. Electrical issues prevent employees from using the washer and dryer at the same time, used to clean

employee uniforms, often caked with dirt, sewage and other materials. For administration employees, who are scattered throughout the building and occupy cavernous rooms and small nooks, the layout isn’t conducive to effective work. “There’s not even a large enough room to have a staff meeting,” said Solid Waste Director Jill Sessions. That will soon change. The new structure will be located at 902 N. Mobley St., adjacent to the current building, and will address safety needs such as hurricane hardening, a generator and fire sprinkler system, code and ordinance requirements related to parking

spaces, landscape and retention ponds and address functional needs such as state-of-the-art WiFi capability (the current building has limited WiFi) technology, a large multi-purpose meeting room and storage space and a wash-down locker room with a drain. The building will also be able to accommodate the growth of the Utilities and Solid Waste Departments for decades to come. “The Solid Waste Department will occupy one side of the building, Utilities Maintenance Department the other and there will be a shared space in between to make the flow better for employees and visitors,” said Sessions. The city commission approved a work order in March 2021 for The Lunz Group to design a new office building. The city went through a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) Procurement process and Manhattan Construction Company was approved by the city commission in July 2022. In September, the city commission authorized the city manager to execute a construction contract with the company for the Guaranteed Maximum Price of $7,958,670 for the new facility. Adding the City-procured needs for fiber communication installation ($300,000); security, furniture and appliances ($400,000); construction engineering services ($150,000) and project

contingency ($354,530), the total project cost estimate is $9,163,200. At the commission meeting where the project was discussed, Commissioner Dodson praised the city’s sound financial management. “The good news is our city is in an exceptional circumstance enabling us to move forward with this project,” he said. The city, anticipating the need, has been setting aside money for the project for more than a decade. The cost is split between the Water/Sewer Fund and Solid Waste Fund. Spivey and Sessions estimate construction will begin before the end of this year with completion in late 2024 or early 2025. Demolition of the existing building will be budgeted separately in fiscal year 2025. Spivey and Sessions assure residents that their service won’t be affected while the new building is under construction. “We’ll be able to watch it being constructed and it won’t interrupt our work,” said Sessions.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

PLANT CITY ROAD COUNTY AND STATE PROJECTS MOVING FORWARD Major roadway improvements continue to keep road crews busy.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

It’s nearly impossible to drive down a street, highway or interstate in Plant City without seeing roadway improvement projects in the works. Heavy equipment, construction vehicles, workers, warning sign and traffic barrels warn of work zones. With several state, county, and city roads, sometimes it’s hard to tell who’s footing the bill for the construction project. “There are several county-owned/maintained or state-owned/maintained roads within the city, these roads are not part of the city-owned/maintained network,” said Assistant City Manager Jack Holland. “Also, there are several private roads within the city that are not maintained by the City.” Major state roads inside the city limits include: US92/Baker St.; US92/Reynolds St., SR574/Reynolds St. west of US92/ Reynolds St.; SR39/Alexander St. west of Redman Pkwy.; SR39 south of Alexander St.; SR39-A/Buchman Hwy. north of I-4; SR553/N. Park Rd. North of US92 to I-4; SR566/Thonotosassa Rd. North of US92/ Baker St. to I-4; North Frontage Road and South Frontage Road. Major county roads inside the city limits include: Turkey Creek Road; Sydney Road west of Turkey Creek Road; Park Road south of US92; Jim Johnson Road south of Park Road; Charlie Griffin Road; Wilder Road; Sam Allen Road and County Line Road (Polk County owned/maintained). While the city has some road work being planned for its next fiscal year, here’s a list of state and county road construction and closures that could affect commute times and mobility across the area. SR 39 (Alexander Street) New Traffic Signal at Mud Lake Road- Project # 254677-38 Construction Cost:$600,000 Estimated Completion Date: Early 2024 The FDOT’s Design-Build Firm, Cone & Graham, Inc., is adding a new traffic signal at SR 39 (Alexander Street) and Mud Lake Road. Other safety and operational improvements include sidewalk installation and addition of pedestrian signals and crosswalks. SR 39 (James L. Redman Parkway) Repaving from Charlie Griffin Road to Alexander Street- Project # 440733-1-52-01 Construction Cost: $3.3 million Estimated Completion Date: Early 2024 In addition to repaving this section of SR 39, additional improvements being made include adding a right turn lane from southbound James L. Redman Parkway onto westbound Alexander Street and widening the existing right turn lane from Alexander Street onto southbound James L. Redman Parkway. Watch out for nightly lane closures in this area. SR 60 Repaving From Turkey Creek Road to SR 39- Project # 446051-52-01 Construction Cost: $5.5 million Estimated Completion Date: Early 2024

This repaving project, being completed by CW Roberts Contracting, is taking place during daytime and nighttime hours. Work requiring lane closures will occur at night from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Drivers are encouraged to exercise caution when traveling through this work zone. I-4 Repaving from east of McIntosh Road to County Line Road- Project # 445380-152-01 Construction Cost: $35.7 million Estimated Completion Date: Late 2024 This I-4 project is repaving the interstate’s travel lanes, ramps and frontage roads. Construction activities take place during daytime and evening hours. Work requiring lane closures will occur at night from 9:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. Park Road at Jim Johnson Road- Project #69679023 Construction Cost: $2.047 million Estimated Completion Date: 2023 Improvements in this area include but are not limited to crescent roadway realignment and signalization of the intersection. Sidewalks will be added or replaced to improve pedestrian traffic. Turkey Creek Road Improvements from MLK Boulevard to Sydney Road- Project # 69625000 Construction Cost: $14.3 million Estimated Completion Date: 2023 The most expensive project of those listed, the goal of this project is to mitigate traffic congestion and enhance safety conditions between SR-574 and Sydney Road and to widen and resurface Turkey Creek Road, re-align and install a traffic signal at Airport Road, install new water and sewer lines and install drainage improvements including the construction of three Stormwater Management Facilities (SMF) ponds. A center two-way left-turn lane will improve access and reduce delay along Turkey Creek Road. Sydney Road Intersection: Turn lanes will be added under the previously installed traffic signal in addition to a free-flow right turn lane and merge land from westbound Sydney Road to northbound Turkey Creek Road. Airport Road Intersection: This will be shifted 240-feet south of its current configuration and realigned to create a T-intersection with Turkey Creek Road. The new intersection will have mast arm traffic signals, pedestrian signals and crosswalks. N. Wilder Road from US Hwy. 92 to E. Knights Griffin Road- Project # 69631196) Construction Cost: $1.9 million Estimated Completion Date: Early 2024 This resurfacing project along 4.10 miles of N. Wilder Road is part of the Roadway Pavement Preservation Program. A complete list of current and upcoming projects can be found at fdottampabay. com.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

SOCIAL SECURITY AND SSI BENEFITS TO INCREASE 3.2 PERCENT IN 2024 Some residents say that increase is not enough to cover rising costs. MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for more than 71 million Americans will increase 3.2 percent in 2024, the Social Security Administration announced last week. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by more than $50 per month starting in January. The Social Security Act provides for how the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is calculated and ties the annual COLA to the increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Federal benefit rates increase when the cost-of-living rises. The CPI-W rises when inflation increases, leading to a higher cost-of-living. This change means prices for goods and services, on average, are higher. The cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) helps to offset these costs. “Social Security and SSI benefits will increase in 2024, and this will help millions of people keep up with expenses,” said Kilolo Kijakazi, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. The increase is much smaller than last year’s cost-of-living adjustment, when recipients saw an 8.7 percent increase in their benefits, the largest since 1981. The estimated average monthly social security benefits for all retired workers is $1,907. Plant City resident George D. hoped for a larger increase. “It doesn’t make sense that food costs have gone up 11 percent in

the last year and are predicted to increase another 5.8 percent in the next year so you’re losing money and that’s just food,” he said. “Rents, cars, taxes and insurance have all increased.” His advise to workers who haven’t retired yet is to sock away money for retirement. “When you finally retire you’ll be singing the same story, don’t plan your life just to live on social security in retirement because you can’t live on that,” he said. “It’s to supplement what you did as a smart human being so set yourself up with a 401k or other investments.” The Social Security Administration also announced other adjustments affecting workers making contributions to social security coffers that will take effect in January based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $168,600 from $160,200. Social Security will begin notifying people about their new benefit amount by mail starting in early December. Individuals who have a personal “my Social Security” account can view their COLA notice online at www.ssa.gov/myaccount. To learn more about how the COLA is determined visit ssa.gov/cola.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR LIVE LOCAL ACT IS NEITHER LIVE NOR LOCAL The LIVE LOCAL ACT is neither – it is “dead” legislation from Tallahassee. It will no more provide “affordable housing”, than Jeb Bush’s “affordable home insurance act of 2002 is providing anyone “affordable home insurance”. If Governor Desantis, State Senator Burgess, and State Reprenstative do not amend this law – they will be trampling your stated and implied private property rights, stealing your sweat equity, as they enrich the developers and their political lobbyists. With regard to the Walden Lake fiasco, it is sad. The Plant City Mayor and Commissioners and the Walden Lake Community Association should be ashamed. The once bucolic Walden Lake has been living with an existential threat for more than 10 years – as one developer after another attempt to extort the sweat equity from individual homeowners who bought into a Planned Unit Development (P.U.D.) built around green space. Both the City and the WLCA could have ended this year’s ago - they could end it today. The City and the WLCA have failed to lead and have failed to act – and we should not allow them to hide behind the LIVE LOCAL ACT if this all goes south. It is a political travesty, and the LIVE LOCAL ACT is just salt in our wounds. Don Marshall Walden Lake Resident (30 years)

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

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Plant City Schools Awarded Grants For Water Resources Education Southwest Florida Water Management District’s grant will benefit Bailey and Knights Elementary Schools and Plant City High School students.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has recently announced the allocation of $108,304 in grants to support water resources education projects in the District as part of the Splash! school grant program. Fifty-one educators within the district have been awarded grants of up to $3,000 each to facilitate engaging and hands-on learning experiences for students in four topics: water cycle basics, freshwater or estuary ecosystems, water quality and water supply and conversation. The district has recognized and awarded grants to the following local schools and teachers:

Bailey Elementary School- Tara Vaughn Knights Elementary School- Caylee Thompson Plant City High School- Hayley Schemmel Thompson, a third-grade teacher at Knights Elementary, was awarded $700 to provide a hands-on learning experience that correlates with grade-level standards regarding classifying plants and animals. She’ll be using the funds to purchase a half-day exploration program from Mad Science. “They will come out and give a hands-on demonstration for the entire third grade,” she said. “We were also able to get funds to purchase project consum-

ables for the teachers to continue the learning in their classrooms- materials such as copy paper, binding for student passports and packs of markers.” Bailey Elementary School science teacher Tara Vaughn said her school was awarded $2,251.49 to take third grade students on a field trip to Crystal Springs Preserve in Zephyrhills. “At Crystal Springs Preserve students will participate in a program called Hanging Out in the Habitat where they will explore wilderness areas and be introduced to native and non-native species found along the Hillsborough River and local springs,” said Vaughn. As part of the grant students will participate in lessons provided by the SWFWMD " Life in Florida's Freshwater Wetland Communities,” which will provide students with background knowledge before going

on the field trip. They’re also required to complete a post-activity to share what they learned. Students will create posters visualizing the importance of wetlands and a library display on wetlands and Florida habitats. “We are very excited for this experience, all of the activities and the program at Crystal Springs Preserve are academic-based and connect in some way to our Science standards,” said Vaughn. Students will also receive a book, “The Florida Water Story: The Wetlands of Florida” to keep as a remembrance of the experience. For more information about these grants and the water education programs they support, visit WaterMatters.org/SchoolGrants.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

CUTEST CRITTER

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

“DRIVING HOME” THE MESSAGE OF SAFE DRIVING Plenty of information is available to teach safe driving skills to teens. MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

LULU: Vicky Smude caught this photo of Lulu the cat who says, “I’m the boss now. I’ll need increased amount of head scratches and treats right away!”

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The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) recognizes National Teen Driver Safety Week, which runs until Oct. 21. While teen drivers (ages 15 - 19) represent approximately five percent of licensed drivers, they account for more than 11 percent of crashes in Florida. Parents, family members and friends of teen drivers are encouraged to communicate what safe driving looks like and how to practice it daily. Plant City Police Department Captain Robert McClellan shares a few messages about safe driving practices. “The best advice I can give young drivers is that while they’re behind the wheel make sure that’s the only thing they’re focused on, their phones can wait until they get to their destination,” he said. “It’s also important to give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, speeding and distracted driving not only puts you at risk but others at risk as well.” Teens should also be aware of the licenses’ limitations and the associated driving hours and rules. Drivers with a learner’s license must always be accompanied by a licensed driver 21 years of age or older and, for the first three months after the license is issued, can only drive during daylight hours. After three months, they are allowed to drive until 10 p.m. Sixteen-year-old licensed drivers are not permitted to drive between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless driving to or from work or if accompanied by a licensed driver 21 years of age or older. Adult drivers can also set the example for younger drivers. “Teenaged drivers are

highly influenced by those around them, whether family members or other motorists, so the example we all set on the road has lasting impacts,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue. “FDOT encourages all drivers to practice safe driving habits while avoiding distractions to ensure everyone on the road can arrive to their destination safely.” Several programs and services are offered to teach youth safe driving practices. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, supported by the Florida Sheriffs Association, offers the Teen Driver Challenge program, a part classroom/part driving experience that is a defensive driving and vehicle control program. It is designed to enhance the young driver’s awareness of the complex task of operating a motor vehicle and to create and practice skills that will prepare them to anticipate and handle hazards that occur daily in normal driving conditions. The next class is offered on Dec. 2 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Walter C. Heinrich Practical Training Site, located at 14063 County Road 39 in Lithia. The program is offered on a first-come, fist-served basis and is limited to 12 participants. The application deadline is Nov. 2. Each student must have a valid driver’s license (no restricted licenses) and a vehicle. For additional information, contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at 813-247-8115. For more tips on how to talk to teens about driving safety and other campaign resources, visit flhsmv.gov/safety-center/ driving-safety/teen-drivers.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE Did you take the Observer with you on vacation? Send your pictures to Associate Editor Michelle Caceres at mcaceres@plantcityobserver.com to be featured.

GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES TEMPORARY DISCOUNT ON FLORIDA STATE PARK PASSES AND FWC HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES

For a limited time residents can get fifty percent off passes to go outdoors and enjoy Florida’s natural resources. MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

ENGLAND: Retired planner Mark Hudson and his wife Ellen took the Observer on a trip to

England to visit family. The Hudsons got an up close and personal picture in front of one of Ampthill, Bedfordshire’s local pubs, the Prince of Wales.

Last week, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Executive Order 23-209 (The Great Outdoors Initiative) directing the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to offer Floridians the chance to enjoy the state’s natural resources for a discounted admission price. From Oct. 14 through Jan. 13, the DEP will offer Florida State Parks annual passes for families and individuals at a fifty percent discount and FWC will be discounting its annual resident Gold Sportsman license, five-year Gold Sportsman license and Lifetime Sportsman license by fifty percent. FWC will also exempt individuals from needing fishing licenses within Florida state parks during this nearly threemonth period. With 175 award-winning state parks, trails and historic sites spanning nearly 800,000 acres and 100 miles of sandy beaches, Florida is the only four-time winner of the Gold Medal honoring the nation’s best park system. “Florida is home to some of the best state parks, waterways and recreational lands in the country, and I encourage all Floridians to get outdoors, experience our extraordinary natural resources and enjoy our fundamental right to hunt and fish,” said DeSantis. “And we are now

making it more affordable for families to get outside and enjoy these wonders by offering state park passes and fishing and hunting licenses at sharply discounted rates.” Florida State Parks Annual Passes will be available at the following rates: * Family Annual Pass- $60, plus tax. * Individual Annual Pass- $30, plus tax. The following FWC Gold Sportsman licenses, which include the saltwater fishing, freshwater fishing, hunting privileges and all associated permits, will also be discounted by fifty percent and will be available at the following rates, plus applicable fees: * Annual Gold Sportsman- $50.75. * Five-year Gold Sportsman- $247.75. * Lifetime Sportsman License * Age 4 or younger- $201.50. * Ages 5 - 12- $351.50. * Ages 13 and older- $501.50. To learn more about the Great Outdoors Initiative, find a park near you or purchase your annual park pass visit floridastateparks.org. To learn more about fishing and hunting licenses in Florida, visit myfwc.com/license/recreational/ or to purchase a license visit License. GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

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GMC CANYON AT4X IS FOR SERIOUS OFF-ROAD AFICIONADOS! CANYON AWD (AT4X) Tires: 285/70R17 Wheelbase: 131.4 inches Length: 213.2 inches Width: 84.4 inches Height: 81.6 inches Steering: electric power Fuel capacity: 21.5 gallons City/highway: 16 mpg Weight: 4,970 pounds Base price: $55,500 Price as tested: $58,640 Web site: www.gmc.com

NITISH S. RELE

All you real passionate off-road, allterrain enthusiasts, this ride is for you! The 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X (first-ever trim) is a step above the AT4 because of several exclusive features: Baja Drive mode to tackle rough terrain at higher speeds; Standard 33-inch Mud Terrain (MT) tires; Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSV) dampers – this highlevel chassis technology for control and comfort on-road and forceful performance off-road is used by professional motor racing teams. Front/rear electronic-locking differentials engage axles to lock both wheels at consistent speed despite any obstacles, especially in the rugged boondocks; Rocker protectors/guards and rugged

aluminum skid plate to protect underbody parts. A first for the Canyon, waterproof front/rear underbody cameras (10 total views) for higher visibility to tackle ruts, rocks, stumps and other hurdles. Exquisite ceramic white accents mixed in with the Obsidian Rush cabin to result in fine-looking fit and finish. Convinced yet? Well, if you aren’t, here’s what is under the hood of the midsize pickup. A 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-4-cylinder engine pumps out 310 horsepower @ 5600 rpm and 430 pounds-feet of torque @ 3000 rpm. Mated to an 8-speed auto gearbox, the Canyon is capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds with a crew cab of 61.2-inch bed length. With a factory lift of 3 inches and 10.7-inch ground clearance, the AT4X boasts 32.8-degree off-road approach, and 24.5-inch breakover and offroad departure angles. It’s off-road ready!

Up front, it’s all about the pickup’s extreme off-road muscle capabilities with a 30-inch grille light bar, red recovery hooks, Comeup brand winch, bumper with Safari bull bar, skid plate, as mentioned, and flanked by horizontal LED headlights and fog lamps. Thanks to Obsidian Rush, the well-lit, airy and elegant interior shows off a center display 11-inch digital instrument cluster (which accesses and monitors any off-road outing) alongside the 11.3-inch infotainment touch screen. Besides Baja, the driver can also switch on terrain, offroad, normal and tow/haul modes. Other basic goodies include head-up display, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, tilt/telescopic steering column, spray-on bedliner, 7-speaker Bose audio, keyless start, and comfy eight-way driver power and cooled/ heated front seats. Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, 2-speed transfer case, four-wheel

antilock and auto emergency brakes, front pedestrian braking, forward collision alert, blind zone steering and rear park assists, rear cross traffic brakes, adaptive cruise control, hill descent control, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and tire pressure monitor are standard. If you like to venture off the beaten path, the Canyon AT4X is worth a shot. It delivers remarkably quick and smooth acceleration, while boasting numerous creature comforts and admirable towing figures. And remember you can tackle the extreme rigors of the backcountry via Baja mode if it suits your fancy! Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabay.com and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.

SPORTS

Athlete of the week: Devin Blunt See Page 15 (Courtesy of Peachy Brass Studios)

STRAWBERRY CREST COMES UP SHORT AGAINST ALONSO The Chargers fall to 4-3 on the year in a close 34-30 defeat.

DYLAN TICE SPORTS WRITER

Friday night lights had more implications surrounding the team and school than usual as this was Strawberry Crest’s Homecoming night. The Chargers entered this game with a 4-2 record, 2-1 when home and 2-1 when away. They put the teams 1-0 record in October on the line and when comparing Crest’s offense and defense this season, the numbers are similar on seasonal averages. The offense is scoring 22 points per game, while the defense is allowing 19 points per game. As for the Alonso Ravens, they entered Friday’s game with a 5-2 record, 2-2 at home, and arrived at Strawberry Crest with an undefeated 3-0 record away. Alonso’s points scored per game and points against were both higher than the Chargers entering Friday’s game, scoring 33.2 points per game, while allowing 26.1 points per game. Alonso really needed to get back in the win column as they started the season 5-0, but dropped the last two, allowing a total of 95 points in that span. The game started with Alonso winning the coin toss and deferring to Crest. The offense was powered by Devin Blunt on the opening drive. He picked a nice gain on a rush attempt on a 3rd down for the Chargers and ultimately scored the first touchdown of the game on that drive. The Ravens responded nicely as they slowly but efficiently moved down the field, capped off by a rushing touchdown by Dontrell Issac. Both defenses settled in on the next possessions as Alonso forced a three and out by the Chargers and then Alonso’s following offensive drive was halted by a sack from Didier Godonou Dossou. The first quarter ended 7-7. Alonso started the second quarter at Crest’s 40 and quickly got inside the Charger’s 5-yard line, much to do with the rushing ability of QB Joseph Glennon. He then finished what he started with a QB sneak at the one-yard line for an Alonso touchdown. They then led 14-7 with 10:39 left in the half. Things were looking good for the Chargers on the following drive with a nice kick return to the 30-yard line and then an Alonso penalty pushed the Chargers to midfield, but the momentum shifted as the Chargers fumbled and Alonso recovered. Alonso wasted no time as Cole Herbig had multiple catches that drove them down the field, increasing Alonso’s lead to 20-7 as Crest blocked the extra point attempt.

With the Chargers being down multiple possessions, they put the ball in the hands of Devin Blunt once again and he delivered, capping off multiple big runs on this drive, ultimately scoring his second touchdown of the game, cutting the deficit to 20-14. The Charger’s defense matched the energy by the offense, stopping the Ravens and the big stop of that drive was a sack by Jace Eldridge. This forced a punt, and the long snapper hiked it over the punter’s head, causing a safety making the score 20-16 Alonso at halftime. The second half started with Alonso hot on offense. They mostly attacked through the air, quick throw after quick throw with some impressive yards after each catch. It was all for nothing though as Devin Blunt got the interception for Crest in the end zone. The Chargers didn’t do much with their first offensive possession of the second half, punting after picking up a couple of 1st downs. Special teams continued to haunt Alonso as the returner dropped the catch and Crest took over in Alonso territory. Being so close, they executed successful running plays with Devin Blunt and Rodney Addison, and Blunt scored his third touchdown of the game. The score at this point is 23-20 in favor of Strawberry Crest and the first lead for the Chargers since the first quarter. The very next drive, the momentum stayed with the home team as Abe Craig got a pick 6 for the Chargers, extending the teams lead 30-20. Alonso had the ball to start the 4th quarter and they immediately met a challenge as they had a 4th down in their own territory. Instead of running a short distance first down, they opted to pass, and it caught Crest off guard as the pass took them into Charger territory. Following the big play, Crest committed a penalty, leading Alonso to find the end zone off a passing touchdown, making the game 30-27 Crest with 8:57 left. The Chargers offense didn’t give its defense time to catch a breath as an offensive penalty and sack allowed forced a three and out for Crest. The Chargers had to punt, and Alonso took over around the Chargers 30-yard line. They slowly moved the ball and scored once again, regaining the lead 34-30 with 4:42 left. An Alonso encroachment penalty gave the Chargers some free yards to start the drive, then after moving down the field on short yard plays, Devin Blunt once

again rips off another big run, moving Crest into Alonso territory. The Charger’s drive was stopped by an interception at Alonso’s 2-yard line. At this point in the game, Alonso is up and had to chew 1:57 off the clock to end the game. It all came down to a third and 5 for Alonso at the Crest 7-yard line. Alonso QB Joseph Glennon once again put his legs on display with a big run to

midfield. After a couple of kneels, the game was over with the final score being 34-30 in favor of Alonso. Strawberry Crest, now 4-3, heads into next week for an away game vs the Riverview Sharks, while Alonso, now 6-2, remains undefeated on the road and will travel to Plant to take on the Panthers.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

PlantCityObserver.com

Devin Blunt By Dylan Tice

Devin Blunt is a Strawberry Crest High School senior, who regularly plays both sides of the ball, all while holding down a part-time job and maintaining good grades in a rigorous IB program. How long have you been playing football and what got you into it? I’ve been playing football since I was 5 years old. My dad was a really big influence on me playing football. He took me to games, and we’d also sit on the couch and watch games together and bond over football and it really gave me a love for the game. I was really impressed with you playing on offense and defense last night. How did you get into starting for two different positions? I strive to be the best on and off the field. A big part of growing as an athlete is being able to adapt and playing the position

that’s best for your team. I also love playing both ways because I feel more into every aspect of the game, because not only do I get the excitement of rushing for huge touchdowns, but I also get the excitement of making a crucial stop, big hit, or interceptions. Are you planning on playing football in college? If so, do you plan on still playing both positions or one you just play one? I do plan on and would love to play at the next level. If I do play in college, I will play whatever position my coach thinks is best for the team. If I play on one side or both sides of the ball, I will give it 100%. With the goal to make as many plays on that one side or both sides of the ball to contribute to my team’s success. Who’s your favorite running back and cornerback? Could be a current CFB, NFL, or former player! Jamaal Williams is my favorite NFL running back. He is a

great RB and downhill runner, especially in the red zone. He also has a great personality because he brings excitement into the game, and he is also funny with a great sense of humor. I feel like I could relate to him as well. My favorite CB is Deion Sanders, not only does he have great skills but he was consistent while playing in the NFL as a two way player and now as a coach after the NFL. I love the fire that he played each game with and now accomplishing as a coach motivating athletes to do the same. Watching both of them is a true inspiration. If someone wanted to play football for the first time, what advice would you give? If anyone wants to play football, they should be ready to give it everything they got. Learn from their mistakes and keep growing on and off the field. Also be willing to sacrifice and put in extra time and do things that others won’t do in order to accomplish what other players can’t.

Photo courtesy of Peachy Brass Studios

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

AROUND TOWN

We Asked Plant City: Have you ever seen a ghost in Plant City? If so, YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR when and where? Working as a CNA in an ALF in Dover working the 7 p.m. - 7 a.m. shift I definitely saw a ghost in that place and the owners’ pets would act all weird staring at the wall. Anay Daniel Seeing things, no not yet. But I was doing a spirit box session about a year or so ago at the train station and got several intelligent answers. Brandon L. I’ve never seen anything but there was definitely something else living in my home I’m in now and every single one of my friends will tell you they’ve heard or felt another presence. I don’t think it’s disturbed anymore but I do give space to

whatever it is that cohabits my home with me. If you believe the Bible then you know there’s things we cannot see on this earth. I don’t know if ghosts are the right term, but there’s definitely things not of this earth around. Mary Ann I don’t recall seeing any, but I know that there were at least a couple in my previous home because I heard them and one of them touched me. I lived in the historic district. Amber Owens Westside Village I believe it was a young woman with straight hair and she wore a white gown. She waved to me when I was laying down in me and my sister’s room. At the

time it was super dark and I don’t know how she knew I was there! I slept where I can see the corner of the kitchen and it was super dark! She appeared out of nowhere, looked straight at me, WAVED and walked into the kitchen. All the lights were off I the room I was in and she knew I was the only one awake and waved, bruh. I close all the doors now before I go to sleep. Jess Torres The theater downtown in haunted. April Robbins I used to drive 92 East home after work almost every single night. This is closer to the ‘methner’ area, but right before you get to Kelly’s Hideaway, I would always see a small

flame, like a single candle or a lighter, on the left side in the trees…of course when I passed by in the daytime, it’s nothing but trees..every single night I would see it. Carol White Ghost in the middle of the graveyard in downtown Plant City. Lacey Robbins

289704-1

Warren Gerland, 67, of Plant City, Fla. born on Sept. 12, 1956, in Harlingen, Texas, entered eternal rest on Oct. 9, 2023. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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James “Jimmy” L. Lamb James “Jimmy” L. Lamb, 82, of Brandon, Fla., born on July 10, 1941, in Green River, Wyoming, entered into eternal rest on Oct. 12, 2023. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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Richard D. Lovely Richard D. Lovely, 60, of Brandon, Fla. born on Dec. 28, 1962, in Mars Hill, Maine, entered into eternal rest on Oct. 15, 2023. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Taking careMaxwell of Frederick “Skip” Helen each other is what A. McIsaac McCeldry

Cynthia Michelle Yates

community

Frederick “Skip” A. Helen Maxwell McCeldry, Cynthia Michelle Yates, McIsaac, 77, of Plant City, age 74, of Plant City, Fla. known lovingly as Michelle, Florida, born on Septempassed away on, October passed away peacefully ber 30, 1946, in Caribou, 12, 2023. Helen was born on Oct. 11, 2023, in Plant Maine, entered on October 31, 1948. we’re dedicated to helping families create a City, Fla. A funeral service W E ’R E P Rinto OU D TOeternal SE RV E our community and meaningful memorial that truly was held Oct. 17, 2023, at with personal, rest on October 5,compassionate 2023. care since 1896. Fondunique memories and celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, Expressions of condoexpressions ofTransferability sympathy Haught Funeral Home, 708 > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan The Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance lences at www.Hopewellmay be>shared at www. W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd. Plant Funeral.com. WellsMemorial.com for the City, FL 33563. R family.Festival. Online condolences can Proudly supportingMcCeldry the Plant City Strawberry be made at www.haught. care.

is all about.

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Ron DeMay

OBITUARIES

Warren Gerland

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

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WELLS MEMORIAL & EVENT CENTER PLANT CITY

Ron DeMay, 66, of Plant 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Lyman Eugene City, Fla. born on Dec. 14, James 1956, in Chicago, Illinois, entered into eternal rest on Lyman Eugene James, Oct. 14, 2023. passed away peacefully in Expressions of condohis home in Plant City, Fla. lences at www.HopewellFuon Oct. 6, 2023. neral.com. Lyman joined and proudly served in the United States Air Force. The family will receive friends Oct. 21, 2023, from HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM 1 to 2 p.m. at Hillsborough United Methodist Church, 9008 Harney Rd., Tampa FL 33637. A Memorial Service will follow at 2 p.m. Online condolences can be made at www.haught. care M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

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ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

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YOUR CALENDAR

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

BEST BET SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21 STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN Saturday, October 21 from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 102 N. Palmer St. The Plant City Strawberry Classic Cruise-In is back on Saturday, Oct. 21, rain or shine. Cars and trucks of all makes, models and years can register for free starting at 3 p.m. Live music by DJ John Paul Gasca.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20

KINGSWAY LIVE AT KRAZY KUP

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Krazy Kup, Grab your friends for a night of uplifting music and fellowship with Brandonbased contemporary worship band, Kingsway.

PUMPKIN PATCH

Until Oct. 31, Weekdays 4:45 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sundays10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wesley Center, 202 W. Reynolds St., Choose from hundreds of pumpkins of all sizes. Donations benefit student programs at FUMC. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21

OPTIMIST TRI-STAR FOOTBALL SKILLS COMPETITION

8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2402 E. Cherry St., The Optimist Tri-Star Football Skills Competition is a fun, free event for youth football players aged six to 15 to show off their punting, passing and place-kicking skills. Awards for top three in each age group: 6 - 7, 8 - 9, 10 - 11, 12 - 13, 14 - 15. Boys and girls compete separately. No pre-registration is needed- you can register on-site.

ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY OPEN HOUSE

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Glover Historic School, 5104 Horton Rd., The local chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority is showcasing its history, members and impact on the community at this open house. Self-guided tours, music and food. MONDAY, OCTOBER 23

PLANT CITY OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE SECOND ANNUAL TRUNK OR TREAT

5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Outback Steakhouse in Plant City is hosting its second annual Trunk or Treat event. It’s completely free to attend and includes games, vendors, candy and more. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24

HITCHIN POST CAFE PRESENTS TRUNK OR TREAT 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 10903 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Join in on the fun with games, fun and candy.

LIFE RECOVERY - ADDICTION RECOVERY GROUP

6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 2103 Mud Lake Rd. The Plant City Church of God hosts Life Recovery on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month, a free, Christ centered, 12-step group addiction recovery program for all those in need. Family is welcome to join alongside attendees and for more information, call or text Debbie at 813-763-1562 or Laverne at 813-763-1530.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN OF HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY NETWORKING EVENT

9 a.m. to 10 a.m., 2051 Walden Woods Dr., Invite your friends and bring your business cards for a morning of networking. Refreshments and door prizes will be available.

LAST FRIDAY NIGHTMARE ON MAIN STREET

5 p.m. to 9 p.m., McCall Park, Spooky season alert! Join Plant City Main Street for this month’s last Friday event with plenty of Halloween-themed fun in downtown Plant City. Dress up in costume and enjoy live music performed by Ace Jackson and the Jump Kings, explore Main Street Kids zone, shop at the expanded exhibitor market and savor delicious food. Many downtown businesses extend their hours, allowing visitors to shop, eat and trick-or-treat to their hearts’ content.

MONSTER MASH

6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Plant City Stadium, 1810 E. Park Rd., This fun-filled family event features a Bay Care Boo Bash area, a scare zone (if you dare), trunk or treat, vendors, music and more. Parking fee is $5 but event entry is free. If you’d like to be a trunk stop, vendor or sponsor call 813659-4255.

ESTRANGED FAMILY

6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 1107 Charlie Griffin Rd. 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 influence activities to help cope with the situation. PEAK is not appropriate for abusive relationships or mental illness. Meetings take place on the first Wednesday of each month at GracePoint Church. For more information, visit www.peaksupportgroup.com. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4

BLUEGRASS JAM

6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. This is an open invitation for local Bluegrass musicians and fans to come to the Krazy Kup loft and jam, clap hands, stomp feet and enjoy! Krazy Kup holds their Bluegrass JAM on the first Saturday of every month. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10

LIONS CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28

8 a.m. shotgun start, Diamond Hill Golf Club, 13115 Sydney Rd., Dover, Come join the fun and play a round of golf for a good cause. $125 per player of $500 for a team of four. Sponsored by the Plant City Lions Club. For more information contact Tony Lee at 813-298-8208.

HIKE NIGHT

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11

6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., McIntosh Preserve, 775 E. Knights Griffin Rd.,

FALL FESTIVAL

10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Park Rd., Come enjoy this free event. All are welcome.

OPEN MIC NIGHT

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Open Mic Night is back at Krazy Kup. Join them for a fun night where you get to be the star of the show. Come out, strut your stuff and show everyone what you’ve got.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29

HARFEST

5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 1107 Charlie Griffin Rd. All are invited to GracePoint Church’s free HarFEST event. Make your way down to enjoy live music from Southern Express Bluegrass Band and eat great food from their annual Chili Cook-Off competition while kids can enjoy bounce houses and hay rides. All are encouraged to bring a chair for this event full of fall fun. For more information, visit www.gracepointpc.org/events. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS WITH

To have your event included in our calendar, visit the calendar section of our website at www.PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

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I LOVE PLANT CITY

FORECAST THURSDAY, OCT 19

SUNRISE/SUNSET Sunrise Sunset Thursday, Oct 19

7:31a

6:55p

Friday, Oct 20

7:32a

6:54p

Saturday, Oct 21

7:32a

6:53p

Sunday, Oct 22

7:33a

6:52p

FRIDAY, OCT 20

Monday, Oct 23

7:34a

6:51p

Tuesday, Oct 24

7:34a

6:50p

High: 84 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 9%

Wednesday, Oct 25

7:35a

6:49p

High: 85 Low: 62 Chance of rain: 7%

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, OCT 21 High: 86 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 9%

SUNDAY, OCT 22 High: 87 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 6%

MONDAY, OCT 23 Charlie Sides shot a gorgeous sunset in Plant City on October 8.

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High: 88 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 7%

Across 1 Get all mushy 5 Promising location 10 Jewelry designer Peretti 14 “Then again,” in tweets 15 “How nifty!” 16 Just the best 17 Group for cardboard toy enthusiasts? 20 “My Brilliant Friend” novelist Ferrante 21 “Breathe Me” singer 22 Back in style 23 Gasteyer of “Wine Country” 25 eBay sale condition 27 Capital of Japan 28 Imminent

59 __ & Gabbana fashion 32 Filing tool 34 Group for Roomba enthu- house 63 Group for Merriam-Websiasts? ster enthusiasts? 37 Livens (up) 66 Yoga pose that requires 40 Forestall balancing on one foot 41 UFO crew, probably 67 San Diego’s __ Park 42 Gem weight 68 Part of an EGOT 43 “Little Girl Blue” singer 69 Wet septet Simone 44 Group for big-rig enthu- 70 Pallid 71 Noodle that may be siasts? served in dashi broth 46 Misfortunes 48 Quaint school dance Down 49 Defense advisory gp. 1 Sulk 51 Road-trip stops 2 “And so forth” abbr. 54 Obi-__ Kenobi 3 Easy stride 55 Inbox filler 4 Baseball film featuring a 57 Fútbol fan’s cry

bat named “Wonderboy” 5 “Your point is?” 6 Signs of summer 7 “Rocky” actress Shire 8 Book of maps 9 Milne joey 10 Novel ending? 11 High vantage point 12 Skyline standout 13 __ Martin: “Skyfall” car 18 Went on a quick errand 19 Major in astronomy? 24 Blazer sleeve 26 Needle 28 Director Reitman 29 Blue-skinned race in “Avatar” 30 Picture-perfect spot 31 Fencing category 33 Online source of study guides 35 PIN point? 36 Several CBS forensic dramas 38 __ Alto, California 39 Recipe part 42 Insect with a 17-year life cycle 44 Nine-digit ID 45 Bearer of good moos? 47 Country singer McCann 49 Pond critters 50 Gooey treat 52 Snouts 53 Slow-moving creature 56 __ of March 58 Latin “Behold!” 60 Long way to go? 61 Grooming tool 62 “Orinoco Flow” singer 64 Pampering place 65 Charged particle

Oct. 21 First

Oct. 28

Full

Nov. 4 Last

Nov. 11 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

0.50 in.

0.82 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

OCT. AVERAGE:

39.10 in.

2.58 in.

AVOCADO Shipping point: South Florida $35.00-$38.00

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

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

PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY OBSERVER | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023

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