10.21.21 PLCO by Plant City Observer

FREE • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

VOLUME 6, NO. 167

PROJECT COULD GRANT

CLEANER WATER

PLANT CITY WILL RUN TEST FOR HIGHER FILTRATED WATER BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

NEW HOSPITAL REACHES

GROUNDBREAKING PHASE SOUTH FLORIDA BAPTIST HOSPITAL NEW SITE PROGRESSES

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

The constructing of the new South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City started a new chapter with the project’s groundbreaking ceremony on Monday. The more advanced facility will provide adequate needs that the current one is lacking. The event was held at the cleared site where the building will be erected. Its location is east of the intersection where East Sam Allen Road and North Park Road meet. BayCare Health System and South Florida Baptist Hospital staff were among those in attendance. Also present were the Plant City Fire Rescue crew, Mayor Rick Lott, city commissioners and Plant City Police Chief James Bradford- many of which took part in the ceremonial shovel and hard hat pose for the cameras. “What an exciting day for us at the hospital and in Plant City, for marking this day for our groundbreaking,” said Karen Kerr, the president of the South Florida Baptist Hospital. The function that day signified progression of the project addressing a growing problem.

Photo courtesy of BayCare

Since its opening in 1953, South Florida Baptist Hospital has had 12 major renovations and expansions. To date, the medical facility still has shortcomings that haven’t been met. Dr. Gulab Sher is a physician who has been with the hospital for 17 years now. During his time there, he has seen the need for more space and accommodations. “The growth in the community population and the complexity of the medical condition, led to a need. The hospital has added cardiac services, other lines of services over the years, expansion of the emergency room, a bigger and more up-todate ICU (intensive care unit). These were the previous services and now there is a need for a bigger, newer hospital,” said Sher. Kerr echoed that same sentiment and sought a solution. Initially, she had considered adding onto the existing site, however it would have been a 7-year construction plan with little space for new buildings. She then settled for the site where the very groundbreaking was being held. With the Plant City City Commission’s approval for land rezoning and annexation, work began.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS

Photo courtesy of South Florida Baptist Hospital

Trax Credit Union announces 2021 scholarship winners Multiple Plant City area high school students received scholarships from Trax Credit Union as the winners were announced this week. Trax provides several yearly youth scholarships to members in the All Aboard Youth Program. After submitting an application and essay explaining what it means to be an All Aboard Youth Member at Trax, applicants were evaluated on a number of categories that include community involvement, educational accolades, overall grade point average and Credit Union knowledge. Each of the selected recipients earned a $500 scholarship. “Trax Credit Union understands that young members are critical to the future success of the Credit Union and its respective communities,” President/CEO of Trax Credit Union Peter Giorgianni said. “We are proud each of these future leaders chose to bank with us. Congratulations to those selected for this scholarship.” Here are Plant City’s local scholarship recipients: Callie Smith: Callie is a Senior at Plant City High School. She has a cumulative GPA of 4.7090 and hopes to attend the University of Florida in 2022. Callie is a Varsity Cheer Captain, American Sign Language Honors Society President and a member of the National Honors Society. Courtesy of Judy Wise

Madison Hodge: Madison graduated from Durant High School with a cumulative GPA of 4.3 where she received the Biliteracy Seal for American Sign Language. She was a part of the National Junior Honor Society and the American Sign Language Honors Society. She hopes to study electrical engineering at South Florida State College.

Plant City Parks & Rec to host Halloween Trunk or Treat and Movie Night The Plant City Parks & Recreation Department will host Halloween Trunk or Treat & Movie Night at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center on Friday, Oct. 29. Those in attendance that are 18 years old and under are encourage to wear costumes and the whole family is invited to this free and fun event. In addition to the movie screening, a costume and trunk decorating contest will be held during the event. Bring your own chair and/or blanket for the movie and concessions will be available for purchase. If you would like to have a trunk at the event, call 813659-4255 or email recinfo@plantcitygov.com.

Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center to host taekwondo tournament The Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center in Plant City, 1601 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., will host the Brenda J. Sell Class on Saturday, a regional taekwondo tournament organized by the United States Chung Do Kwan Association. The event will take place on Oct. 23 at 8 a.m., live or virtual, and you can register online for just $65 at www. uscdka.com. The event was created by USCDKA president and CEO Brenda J. Sell to honor the impact that women have made in TaeKwonDo. Sell, a Lakeland native, was the fi st female to be awarded the World Taekwondo Federation certifi ation for international level referee credentials and the only non-Asian female to be recognized by the World Teakwondo Headquarters as a 9th Dan Black Belt in the Chung Do Kwan style of taekwondo, making her the highest-ranked non-Asian female taekwondo practitioner in the world. A breast cancer survivor herself, Sell is encouraging those in attendance to wear pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

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CEREMONY PUSHES HOSPITAL PROJECT FORWARD NEW SOUTH FLORIDA BAPTIST HOSPITAL MOVED AHEAD BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

With a $326 million price tag, the new hospital will span 420,000 square feet, standing six stories high with two six-story towers. It will hold 146 private rooms with the ability to expand to 176 rooms. The hospital will house 26 ICU beds, 30 emergency room beds and eight operating suites. A medical office building will house outpatient services as well as lab, imaging, rehab, wound care, and physician offices. Outside will also be equipped with a helicopter landing pad. And the more than 800 team members –

including 250 doctors at the current site, will be transferred over to the new one once opened. “I really am proud that BayCare decided to make the investment to give us a stateof-the-art hospital,” said Plant City Mayor Rick Lott. He also noted that the hospital’s close proximity to the interstate will be a plus. “Me as a physician and other physicians, and nurses and medical staff, we’re excited about it,” added Sher. “Of course, the leadership has paved the way for it and the administration, and we’re so grateful.” Construction is anticipated to be completed by Fall 2023. The official open date is expected in early 2024.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

PLANT CITY WELCOMES NEW POLICE OFFICERS A SWEAR-IN CEREMONY RECOGNIZES AN ADDITION TO POLICE FORCE

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Pride, allegiance, and public service were key takeaways as the Plant City Police Department officially welcomed aboard three new officers on Friday. Officers Samuel Shireling, Rebecca Monroe, and John Amole were all sworn in at the Michael S. Sparkman Police Center. After the presentation of colors, Captain Alfred Van Duyne gave opening remarks and noted that their schooling was not over but taking a next level. “After today’s swearing in, they will continue onto a field training program which will consist of approximately 16 weeks of on-the-job training with senior officers before being released on their own. This meticulous training program results in the finest officers for the citizens of Plant City,” said Van Duyne. This course consists of four phases: 1. The trainer takes the helm as the trainee observes. 2. Then the trainer does a few less duties while the trainee takes on a minimal amount. 3. The trainer is doing much less work and the trainee is doing the majority. 4. The trainer is now an observer and the trainee is taking on full duties. Before beginning this step, the new recruits completed two-week training relating to firearms, pursuit driving, use of force and defensive tactics, active shooter training, crash investigation, and departmental policy review. At the ceremony, Shireling, 22, said he was finally fulfilling his life-long dream. “My whole life I thought it was cool watching T.V. and seeing police shows,” explained the Plant City native, “but I wasn’t sure if that was something I could ever do.” However, it was joining the Police Explorers Program at 14, said Shireling, that inspired him to pursue that career path. For Amole, it was his time in the military that drew him toward law enforcement. In fact, he had worked at several police departments in Ohio before settling in Plant City. At 32, Amole said that he’s looking forward to achieving new ranks and working with a K-9 unit. And Monroe’s extensive education and training propelled her to join the police force.

The 28-year-old first became a dispatcher right after high school. She then received her bachelor’s degree in criminology and served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Plant City Police Chief James Bradford presented his three new officers with their first badges. It was his third swearing-in ceremony since taking command, and it conjured up memories of when he was initiated 32 years ago. “Since the day I was first sworn in, put on the badge and took the oath to serve,” recalled Bradford, “I remember the awesome responsibility that comes with it. I look at being a police officer more as a calling than a job.” He encouraged the new recruits to still enjoy the perks that come along with being a civilian when necessary. Bradford also noted that making arrests is only one aspect of the job, while creating trust within the community is just as important. “What I want to instill in the officers is getting to know people, so people know them,” he said. “If they need us or we need them, there’s already that relationship.” Before raising their right hands to take that same oath, each officer had a family member pin their new badges onto their uniforms. Shireling’s mother, Jeanie Lynn, was present with his father William. She joined her son center stage as she made the badge a new part of his uniform. Monroe’s mother, Diane, stood alongside her at the front and said that her daughter had always debated whether to become a nurse or police officer. And Amole’s wife, Kelsey, came in support, decorating his uniform with a new badge. “I’m really proud and really glad that he got on with a department that is very secure and family-oriented,” she said. “I definitely try to be the mental health person behind him, to make sure that I keep him grounded.” “I love the sense of community that Plant City has,” said Monroe. “The departmentthey really are a family here.” It was a shared sentiment among the three as to why they chose to serve in Plant City .

COPS CORNER

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THURSDAY, O CTOBER 21, 2021

PLANT CITY

Observer

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigate a fraudulent hotel charge, a stolen iPad and shattered

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

windows.

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com istock

OCT. 8 ROOMS TO GO 300 block of W. Reynolds St. Fraud: Officers met with the victim who stated that she had received confirmation via phone that a hotel room in Ellenton, Florida had been booked, alerting them that someone had used her personal information to book a room without permission.

Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com

BYEPAD

FIRED DAMAGE

1800 block of James L. Redman Pkwy. Vehicle burglary: Officers made contact with the victim who stated that someone had entered her unlocked vehicle, removing a purse that contained her wallet and other personal information. Additionally, an iPad belonging to her employer had also been stolen.

600 block of Spruce St. Shooting into an occupied dwelling: Officers responded to the listed residence in reference to gunshots fi ed at the home.

NOTHING LEFT UNCHECKED 3000 block of Via Siena St. Fraud: Officers met with the victim who claimed that he had lost his checkbook somewhere in Tampa, only to look at his bank statement later and discover that a check had been written in the amount of $675.

OCT. 9 NO ONE’S HOME 100 block of W. Alsobrook St. Criminal mischief: Officers met with the complainant who stated that windows were broken at the vacant house next door. TRESPASSED DUE 2700 block of Thonotosassa Rd. Trespass after arrest: Officers responded to a disturbance call at a business at the listed location. The suspect had an active trespass warning that had been issued on Sep. 5 and was back on the property. The suspect was then arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail without incident. ROCK ON 1200 block of W. Washington St. Criminal mischief: Officers met with the victim who stated that two windows at her residence had been shatters with rocks during the two weeks that she was out of town, resulting in approximately $300 in damage.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

STATE ATTORNEY DETAILS CRIME PREVENTION Andrew H. Warren explains alternative solutions for offenders

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

State Attorney Andrew H. Warren, of the 13th Judicial Circuit, offered insight into his effort to deter crime within Hillsborough County, at Plant City’s Arthur Boring Civic Center. Held last Thursday, it was the most recent networking luncheon hosted by The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. Inside the auditorium, representatives of multiple organizations were at their stands, ready to offer the public information about their services. The board of directors for the Chamber of Commerce were among those present. After being given an introduction, Warren took to the stage as the keynote speaker. He was fi st elected to Florida’s 13th Judicial Circuit in November 2016. Now in his second term as the Tampa-based state attorney, Warren leads a staff f 300 people- with approximately 130 of whom are prosecutors. His team has been focused on providing a safe environment for the Tampa Bay area- including Plant City. “It is a mission of public safety, of fairness and of justice,” explained Warren. “When I got elected, I talked to my office about the need not to prosecute people just for the sake of prosecuting, but as a problem to be solved.” With the help of law enforcement entities like the sheriff’s office, he established a comprehensive civil citation program. It was designed to grant leniency toward fi st time offenders, juveniles, and those suffering from substance abuse and mental illness. It was also a tactic to put a handle on both domestic and gun violence. Warren noted that driving with a suspended license is the most common

offense in Florida, yet shouldn’t come with a harsh penalty because it makes no sense. He went on to explain that a negative chain reaction would result: 1. Being unable to afford to pay a fine then leads to suspension. 2. With suspension, it becomes a challenge to get to work. 3. When that individual can’t get to work, they can’t keep up with their expenses. And this would just be a waste of taxpayers’ dollars, he stated. However, it was his beginnings in law enforcement that helped Warren develop a more merciful approach in the judicial system. After leaving his native Gainesville, he went on to study economics and political science at Brandeis University. He then graduated with a law degree at Columbia University. Afterward, he worked as a clerk at the Federal District Court in San Francisco. Then in New York, he practiced criminal and civil litigation with an international law firm This ultimately led him to serve in another high-profile p sition. “I had the opportunity to work for the Justice Department shortly out of law school,” said Warren. “It was such an honor to do that- be able to represent my country and court of law. There he helped combat financial f aud nationwide, and in one instance, prosecuted those involved in a $7 billion Ponzi scheme. His office then transferred him to Tampa in 2013. As for why he decided to run for state attorney, he said that, “Every time I got on a plane to go somewhere else, I felt like I was missing the opportunity to give back to the community where my kids were growing

up.” He also noted that he saw cracks within the criminal justice system and wanted a hand in improving it. He also adopted the concept of a Nobel prize winner that doing what’s right in the short term doesn’t guarantee that it will be the right solution in the long term. That also means finding a feasible way of dealing with reoccurring crime, especially homicide. While the crime rate in Hillsborough County has decreased within the last fi e years, he stated, there has been a rise in murders. “We usually have about 50 to 60 homicides a year,” said Warren. “We’re up to about 75 countywide. That’s a big increase.”

He referred to statistics which indicate that the rise in murder rates is due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic. The economic toll that it has brought has resulted in violence. However, Warren remains optimistic that by partnering with other law enforcement agencies, crime can decrease. “I’m so lucky to work in Hillsborough County,” he exclaimed. “This is a fantastic community. We’re not going to solve all the problems, but people are pulling in the right direction and they’re focused on working together and actually making the community better.”

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

TRIAL RUN TO ENHANCE WATER QUALITY PLANT CITY MAKES EFFORT TO KEEP WATER CLEAN

CHAMBER BIDS FAREWELL TO FORMER BUILDING Event Recognizes Chamber of Commerce Relocation Cliff B own and John Haney

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

The McIntosh Preserve Integrated Water Management Project is still in effect as the City Commission of Plant City approved three resolutions to push it forward. Last Monday’s 5-0 vote is to progress a trial that will help with Plant City’s water treatment. This comes as the approximately 360-acre McIntosh Park has been going through modifi ations. Plant City is building boardwalks along with an observation tower to get an aerial view of wildlife and a two-mile trail that have already been built. New wetlands will be hydrated by a small lake and a man-made river. Within the wetland, water will be absorbed into soil and work its way down beneath ground toward the aquifer- underground rock. Bill McDaniel is the City Manager of Plant City and has been working with the city’s utilities department on the project. “We’re working on a plan to take that reclaimed water, clean it up to a drinkable standard. Then inject it down into the aquifer and allow it to be fil ered further and become a part of the natural drinking supply,” McDaniel said.

Last Tuesday, The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce officially said goodbye to its former place of residency. This comes as the Chamber relocated its office from North Evers Street to West Reynolds Street, both in downtown Plant City. The water will also run through a process The farewell event took place inside the inside a plant in order to be fil ered and former office space- once occupied with cleaned at a much higher level. desks and chairs, now vacant and void of The project’s objective is also to identify any settings. the technology that is best suited for treatHowever, the function had many attendment. ees. The clean water can then be discharged CEO-President Christine Miller of The in both the Eastside and Westside Canals Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce in Plant City. was present with her staff to reflect on The approved resolutions are: their memories there. Allowing funds to go specifi ally to Alongside them were businessowners, project. contractors and city officials, including Allowing a budget adjustment for the several commissioners. project. Also present was Cliff Brown, the cur Grants the lease of equipment to be rent part owner of the building. installed at wastewater treatment plant. As a music producer and DJ, he lived in Florida Legislative Appropriations has cities like Los Angeles and Atlanta before allocated $350,000 toward the project, returning to his native Plant City. alongside Plant City which has set aside Although he established a business and $300,000. recording studio in Tampa, Brown said he The Southwest Florida Water Managefelt the need to bring his entrepreneurial ment District has put forward $300,000. spirit locally. The testing could take anywhere from 6 “There’s a lot of (music) artists in the to 12 months. surrounding area and everybody’s moving to Plant City right now,” said Brown. “Instead of building businesses in other locations, we’d rather bring the business

here. It being in our backyard, it just creates that opportunity.” His vision led him and his business partner, Dann Druen, to seek a suitable place in downtown Plant City. It was happenstance that the Chamber of Commerce had their building appraised and put on the market in order to find a more convenient office space. The city organization left its location at 106 N. Evers St. and moved to 118 W. Reynolds St. Both offices are within close proximity, just near the roads’ intersection. Brown and Druen didn’t waste any time and purchased the vacant property. Upon completion, the building had initially been dedicated in January 1994. Just shy of 12,000 square feet, it stands two stories high, holding multiple offices, a stairwell and an elevator. While Miller said it was more space than needed for the Chamber, the business partners feel it’s a good size for their ideas. They plan to renovate it to accommodate a music studio, conference rooms and space for occasional events, such as weddings. “We’ll definitely be open for local artists, and to have the ability to completely write your album with you, produce it, record it, mix, master, do all of your photos and cut music videos,” explained Brown. Another feature waiting to be unveiled is the building’s rooftop. Read more online.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

PLANT CITY ELKS LODGE HOLDS LOCAL HOOP SHOOT

For 50 years, the Elks have held this annual youth free throw contest. TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Plant City Elks Lodge held their annual Hoop Shoot Free Throw Contest on Saturday afternoon. The Elks’ Hoop Shoot has been held for nearly 50 years, aimed at “developing gritty kids.” “We teach kids grit,” George Domedian said. “For the kid that may not be the best dribbler or may not be the best basketball player, any kid can stand at the free throw like and shoot a basket. It helps build camaraderie and they get to meet some new friends.” With male and female participants in three different age groups that ranged from eight to 13 years old, the kids each got their opportunity to shoot 25 free throws and the winners will advance to the next round of the national competition. Participants were selected from preliminary free throw contests held at summer camps, basketball camps and local competitions, with the top competitors then meeting at this local event. The winners from Saturday’s competition will advance to districts in Lake Placid with a chance to keep moving on to the state regional, state, national regional and eventually national competition at DePaul University in Chicago. Winners at the national competition will have their names and picture listed as part of a brand-new digital exhibit in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. “We’re just trying to build the kids up,” Domedian said “For the kid who may not do well this year, we’re going to encourage them and tell them that next year they’ll be

three inches taller and a little stronger. Go home, practice, come back next year and you could be a winner. We just want to build them up and let them have a good time.”

HERE ARE THE WINNERS FROM SATURDAY’S LOCAL HOOP SHOOT: Girls, Age 10-11: Kara Ouzts Girls, Age 12-13: Marlee Kraus Boys, Age 8-9: J.J. Johnson Boys, Age 10-11: Kaden Montgomery Boys, Age 12-13: Elijah Gilroy

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FOCUS ON FITNESS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

MIKE GARTZ

FALL FITNESS January 1st is notorious for being a time to re-establish a healthy routine. But there are a few key benefi s to recommitting to your fitn ss in the fall. Colder weather tends to make people more sedentary, but it doesn’t have to be that way! The more you make exercise a habit, the more automatic it will be and the more you’ll hardwire yourself to want to work out. That way, when you’re in the depths of winter you’ll already have consistent habits set up that are harder to break. Recommitting to a healthy routine in the fall will help with the calorie intake. We all know the apple pies, assortment of pumpkin fl vored everything and hot cocoa sure does taste so good that you tend to forget how high in calories these things are. During this time of the year we tend to perk up the taste buds, not to mention all of the wings, pizza, meatballs, nachos, chips and dips that tailgating brings. Give yourself a leg up by committing to being more active this season and pair it with a few healthy swaps. You’ll feel healthier and can still afford the occasional fall indulgence.

One of the hardest parts of getting in shape can be eating healthy. Working out more can often make us hungrier, so you need to manage your cravings with healthy, nutritious food. Aim to eat lean protein, tons of fresh veggies and fruits, healthy fats and whole grains. Healthy fats in the morning will keep you fuller all day, so you’re not extremely hungry by lunch.

Plan: Schedule your workouts each day.

When you start working out, be aware of your body. If you’re in pain, listen! Nip injuries in the bud by resting or modifying your workouts. There’s no shame in sticking to lower body workouts for a few days if your arms are “oh my goodness, I can’t lift them” levels of sore. When it comes to muscle soreness, give your body one day off f a muscle group if you’re sore, but two or more if the pain makes everyday movements hard.

Change it up: Plan exercise to include yoga or step aerobics as well as weights.

Fitness Tips for the Fall

Workout to music: This can help keep you motivated and improve endurance.

Set goals: Be realistic, ask for help in planning your program, work up to one hour of exercise daily.

Make a motivation board: On a bulletin board, attach a list of goals, photos and/or inspirational sayings. Get outdoors: As the weather cools off, add a walking or jogging program or tend the garden, mow the lawn.

Stay hydrated: Have your water bottle available and a protein drink for after your workout. Get proper sleep: Exercise promotes better sleep, but you need to get into bed in a dark room, no TV or electronics, and aim for six to eight hours of sleep.

Weigh ins: Track your weight, but only weigh yourself once a week at most.

Track your progress: Keep a workout journal with the length of your workouts/ reps/etc. Take time for recovery: Give yourself adequate recovery time between workouts and alternate exercise. Don’t give up: Keep working on your exercise goals every day. It takes time to achieve goals and you need to do this one step at a time. It’s all up to you: You must make the decision to be fi . When you commit to it, you are making a contract with yourself. Be the change that you want to see in your life.

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

OCTOBER 21, 2021

SPORTS LOCAL PREPS

SCOREBOARD Football - Oct. 15 PLANT CITY . . . . . . . . 6 DURANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 STRAWBERRY CREST . . . . 6 WHARTON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Volleyball - Oct. 14 SPOTO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 DURANT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

District Tournament Volleyball - Oct. 18 HAINES CITY. . . . . . . . 0 DURANT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Volleyball - Oct. 19 DURANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 NEWSOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 PLANT CITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 RIVERVIEW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Durant moved to 7-1 on the season and claimed the Redman Cup for the first time since 2017 with their 29-6 victory over Plant City on Friday night. “I think I lost to them four times when I was [at Durant],” head coach Claybo Varnum said. “It was always close but they’ve always been the monkey on our back. Good athletes, great in space and we’ve struggled with that in the past. But we felt great all week. We had a great week of practice, great preparation, our kids were learning a lot and very focused. We installed some things, obviously, for Plant City that we wanted to do and we didn’t get to do all of it but our kids executed at a high level tonight and you can’t ask for much more than that.” Plant City fielded the opening kickoff and started their first drive at the 26 yard line. The Raiders were quickly moved into Durant territory on a big run from running back Reggie Bush Jr. before being forced to punt and downing the Cougars inside their own 10-yard line. Durant moved past midfield as well on the back of running back Calub Connell, ultimately breaking off a long run of his own to the Plant City 29 yard line, but the

DURANT TAKES REDMAN CUP BACK FROM PLANT CITY

Durant claimed their first edman Cup victory since 2017 on Friday night.

Cougars would turn the ball over on downs just four plays later. Plant City punted again and on Durant’s second drive they opened the scoring. Backed up to third-and-25 at their own 35 yard line, quarterback Marcus Miguele dropped back and fired a deep pass down the left sideline for receiver Jeremiah Gines, connecting on the big play down to the Raiders’ 17. A few plays later Miguele took the quarterback keeper up the middle and found pay dirt. The extra point was no good but Durant took a 6-0 lead, one that they wouldn’t relinquish. Durant started their next drive around midfield and moved the ball inside the red zone but settled for a field goal, taking a 9-0 lead in the second quarter. The ensuing kickoff pinned Plant City back inside their own 10 yard line and later punting from their own end zone, giving Durant plus starting field position once again. The Cougars wouldn’t settle for three again, moving up the the 20 yard line before Miguele found Connell out of the backfield for another touchdown and a 16-0 lead. Plant City’s offense was once again stonewalled, punting from deep inside their own territory and giving Durant one more chance to add on to their lead before the half. With less than two minutes remaining in the second quarter, the Cougars took the ball from their own 45

and raced down the field before Connell found the end zone for the second time on the night, a tough carry up the middle from inside the 15, extending their lead to 22-0 as they went into the half. Connell was a junior varsity quarterback last year, stepping up and taking over the starting running back spot as projected starter Alex Daley was forced to miss time early in the year with an injury. But all season it’s been Connell proving himself as the backbone of Durant’s offense, now totaling 678 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns on 101 carries while also adding 51 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown on three catches. His 729 all purpose yards lead the team and his mark of 91.1 all purpose yards per game trails only Daley at 94.5. Durant tacked on one more touchdown in the second half as their defense remained staunch, led by a defensive front that continuously pressured Plant City quarterback Clint Danzey and kept the Raiders’ talented backfield in check. “I’ve coached defense here for 10 years and I always seem to doubt our defense for some reason, but tonight they showed up,” Varnum said. “ Jacob Reed, Austin Bovee, Zaevion Jordan had a coming out party, it’s phenomenal to see him playing well at safety, Leo Tabakovic. They’re hard-nosed kids. They fight around, they scrap.”

Inside linebackers Reed and Bovee led the way in total tackles for Durant, combining for 15, while Leo Tabakovic had two tackles for loss, bringing him to a teambest 14 on the season with eight sacks. In the secondary, Durant’s freshman defensive back Jayden Cornelius stole the show late, hauling in his fourth and fifth interceptions of the season in the second half. Plant City found the end zone on a touchdown pass to senior wide receiver Jaylen Gadson, putting them on the board in the game’s final minutes, but their six points were far from enough to overcome a strong performance on both sides of the ball from Durant. “This win is huge because we’ve got to change the narrative,” Varnum said. “We’re not the punching bag… They just treat us like little brother and they’ve got to understand, we ain’t little brother. We’re right here, we’re right in it with you and when you come down here to play us from now on, it’s going to be tough.” In the 8A District 10 standings, Newsome jumped to the top spot with a 2-0 record within the district that includes a 17-7 win over Durant. Durant will move up to second at 2-1 and Plant City will fall to at least third at 1-1. Plant City will look to get back in the win column this week as they host Plant, while Durant tries to keep the wins rolling as they host Middleton.

PLANT CITY VS. PLANT PREVIEW Plant City (4-3) will continue district play this week against Plant (5-2). TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Plant City will look to rebound from their third loss of the season last week against rival Durant with a win over district opponent Plant High School on Friday. Plant City and Plant are both 1-1 in district play this season, sitting at third and fourth in the 8A District 10 standings respectively. Despite three losses on the Raiders’ record, they have all come against opponents who have combined for one loss on the season. Other than tough matchups against unde-

feated Tampa Bay Tech, nationally-ranked Jesuit and 7-1 Durant, Plant City has won convincingly in their other four contests, outscoring their opponents 110-31. Plant started the season 4-0 with wins over Jefferson, Robinson, Middleton and Sumner before dropping backto-back game to Newsome and Wharton and rebounding with a 35-16 win over Riverview. With Plant City and Plant both sitting just one district win behind 2-1 Durant in the standings, Friday’s game could play a significant role in playoff seeding as the season’s end draws closer.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

DURANT’S CLAYBO VARNUM, CALUB CONNELL NOMINATED FOR TAMPA BAY AREA AWARDS Head coach Claybo Varnum and running back Calub Connell were both nominated for local weekly awards after their big win on Friday night.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Durant head coach Claybo Varnum and junior running back Calub Connell have both been nominated for Tampa Bay Area awards following the Cougars’ 29-6 victory over Plant City on Friday. Varnum, a graduate of Durant High School in 2011, has been nominated for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ High School Coach of the Week award. In his first year at the helm for Durant, Varnum has led the Cougars to a 7-1 record, the school’s best record through eight games since an 11-0 undefeated regular season in 2012. “He’s great,” Connell said about Varnum. “We’re a lot more well-rounded and put together with Coach Claybo. Last year we were kind of all over the place but Coach Claybo keeps us in our place and obviously it’s showing on the scoreboard on Friday nights.” In addition to the hot start, Durant won their Redman Cup rivalry matchup against Plant City for the first time since 2017. Prior to Friday, Plant City had taken the last three matchups between the two teams and nine of 14 in total since the Redman Cup’s inception in 2007. Each week’s award winner receives a customized football and a $2,000 grant from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Foundation to help maintain and upgrade their football program. Connell was nominated for Primetime Preps’ Hillsborough County Football Player of the Week. A quarterback on junior varsity in 2020, Connell stepped up as the starting running back in 2021 when projected starter Alex Daley was forced to miss

time with an injury at the beginning of the year. Since then, Connell has been a consistent force for the Cougars. “It feels amazing to come out here and do something that nobody expected me to do,” Connell said. “I didn’t get any running back reps in my first two years here but I’ve come out and rushed for 100 yards almost every game. It feels great.” Connell’s 729 all purpose yards lead the team, totaling 678 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground along with 51 yards and one touchdown through the air.

Taylor Jenkins is the Sports Writer at the Plant City Observer. Email: tjenkins@ plantcityobserver.com.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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We asked Plant City: What would you like to see the city do with Plant City Stadium? “Refurbish it and bring in a minor league team.” - Fred Gareau “A major league spring training deal or even a minor league affiliate would probably require a new stadium built. But a team in an independent league would be nice to have.” - Jason McLemore “More music, maybe smaller gigs every other day and bigger names on weekends?” - James Thomas Griffin II “Host events, live music, promote local artists. There’s plenty of parking

and places to sit.” - Kelly Sunflowe “NWSL women’s pro soccer team.” Patrick Horn “Outdoor markets, community food garden, grow and pick veggies and fruit where families can go and pick fruit and vegetables and learn how to do more homesteading.” - Susan Heath Moeller “Family Night. Movies under the stars.” - Zamantha Cortez Courtesy of the City of Plant City

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OBITUARIES

Madelena Hartline, 94, of Plant City, Fla., went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Oct. 14, 2021. A celebration of Life was held Oct. 19, 2021 at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr MLK Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haught.care.

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Bobby E. Chaney Bobby E. Chaney, 75, of Plant City, Fla., born in Douglas, Georgia on Aug. 21, 1946, entered into eternal rest on October 16, 2021. He was a Veteran of the United States Army, having served in the Vietnam War. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFunerall.com.

Christian Galvez Christian Galvez, 32, of Fort Myers, Florida, born in Manhasset, New York on December 1, 1988, entered into eternal rest on October 17, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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YOUR CALENDAR

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

BEST BET SATURDAY, OCT. 24 SIR HENRY’S HAUNTED TRAIL 7:30 to 11 p.m. at 2837 S. Frontage Rd. Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail is an outdoor haunted trail located right here in Plant City, sure to satisfy every visitor’s Halloween and haunted house cravings. Sir Henry’s features three different haunted trails, an escape game and laser tag in addition to live entertainment, food vendors and merchandise. Tickets must be purchased in advance and the attraction will be open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night through Nov. 6. The hours of operation are 7:30 to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 7:30 to 9:30 on Sunday. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.sirhenryshauntedtrail.com.

THURSDAY, OCT. 21 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.

SATURDAY, OCT. 23 PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE

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.

venders will be cash-only. For more information, visit www.FoxSquirrelCornMaze. com.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 27

MONDAY, OCT. 25

FOX SQUIRREL CORN MAZE

READING ADVENTURE KITS

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 .

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

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.

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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.

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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 21 High: 88 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 5%

FRIDAY, OCT 22 High: 89 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 16%

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Oct 21

7:32a

6:52p

Friday, Oct 22

7:33a

6:52p

Saturday, Oct 23

7:34a

6:51p

Sunday, Oct 24

7:34a

6:50p

Monday, Oct 25

7:35a

6:49p

Tuesday, Oct 26

7:36a

6:48p

Wednesday, Oct 27

7:36a

6:47p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, OCT 23 High: 89 Low: 69 Chance of rain: 10%

SUNDAY, OCT 24 High: 88 Low: 71 Chance of rain: 53%

MONDAY, OCT 25 Kelsey Spell took this photo of a sun setting over Plant City.

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High: 87 Low: 70 Chance of rain: 50%

Across 1 Hesitant sounds 4 Grand __ Auto: video game 9 A and B, for blood 14 Long of “Third Watch” 15 Gung-ho 16 Finnish bills 17 Method 18 Entirety of a manufacturer’s goods 20 Sent out 22 Inspiring Greek group of nine sisters 23 U.S. Forest Service mascot since 1944 26 __ and found 29 Peace of mind

30 Hightailed it 31 Namesake of a new wing, often 32 Dolphin communication method 35 Oregon city south of Salem 36 4, in 2 + 2 = 4 39 Indoor tanning aid 41 Reuben bread 42 Put-down 44 Inception 46 Lighter brand 47 Degree for a CFO 48 [Purchase at your own risk] 52 Floride, par exemple 53 Out-of-office investiga-

tor 56 Late-night host O’Brien 58 Whip (up), as grub 59 Tumbling seed, and a hint to each row of circled letters 63 AAA service 64 Author Asimov 65 Lawful 66 Night before 67 Rock or pop 68 Traditional piano key wood 69 Like half a deck of cards Down 1 Not prudent 2 Swamp gas

3 Final approvals 4 Conical home 5 “Jude the Obscure” author Thomas 6 Big head on the set 7 Nourished 8 Writer Capote 9 Lunar New Years 10 Holiday fi eplace blazer 11 “Orange Is the New Black” extra 12 Geological period 13 Toronto-to-D.C. dir. 19 Mangy dog 21 Hawaiian strings 24 __ fla es: cereal 25 Body part thoughtfully tugged on 27 PlayStation maker 28 Sloth’s hangout 31 Fool 33 Norsk Folkemuseum city 34 Macadamia __ 35 Pair of madmen? 36 Evaluate, with “up” 37 Army outfi 38 Female ‘80s arcade sensation 40 Like neat freaks 43 As good as expected 45 Graffiti signat es 47 Mix at a party 49 Irish pooch 50 Smitten 51 Slow-boiled, as prunes 53 Convection oven need 54 Water escape route 55 Unc’s spouse 57 “Good one!” 59 “The __ is up!” 60 Employ 61 Tot’s mealtime protector 62 Prefix with friendl

Nov. 4 New

Nov. 19 Full

Nov. 11 First

Oct. 28 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

0.00 in.

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

WEATHER

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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