2.11.21 PLCO by Plant City Observer

Plant City Observer YO UR HOMETOW N. YO UR NEWSPAP ER .

VOLUME 6, NO. 132

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FREE • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

COMMISSIONERS TWEAK BUDGET City commissioners approved budget adjustments and work order modifications in Monday evening’s commission meeting.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

When attendees glanced at the agenda for Monday night’s city commission meeting, many thought it was sure to be a quick night. There was only one item on the consent agenda, a handful of resolutions from the City Manager and the only action items on the Resolutions and Ordinance sections were agendas to set the date for future public hearings.

Of course, everything takes time. So the meeting itself still ran approximately an hour and a half, but commissioners were able to make some important decisions regarding the city’s budget that moved Plant City one step closer toward many upcoming projects.

FOOD FOR ALL A TOUCHDOWN FOR UFB

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

The new fundraising event for the United Food Bank of Plant City was a major success Saturday night. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Whether you were rooting for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Kansas City Chiefs or had no dog in the fight and donned a Bobby Boucher jersey while praising the superiority of H2O, Saturday’s tailgate was the perfect way to get your game face on. The United Food Bank of Plant City held a Food For All Tailgate Gala Saturday evening at Plant City Stadium. Nearly every attendee rolled up in merch from their favorite team and fully embraced the tailgating experience. The UFB would typically hold its annual Celebrity Chef at that time, but the organization wanted to switch gears due to COV-

ID-19 and instead have an outdoor event that would allow attendees to socially distance while still raising money for the crucial organization in the community. Many donated without plans to attend, but those who did were in for a unique treat. Tables were set out on the baseball diamond. Food booths were in front of each dugout. Cornhole and giant connect-four games were scattered among the grounds. A DJ played all of the hits you’d hear while camping outside Raymond James Stadium with your friends before the big game. Johnson Barbeque brought the heat with a mouthwatering menu.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Vehicle containing COVID-19 vaccine vials stolen out of Plant City Plant City Police Department has put out a nationwide alert after a car containing vials of COVID-19 vaccine was stolen from a Florida Strawberry Festival grounds parking lot on West Reynolds Street. On Wednesday afternoon, according to PCPD, a man entered a gray 2018 Hyundai Accent which still had its keys in the ignition and drove it out of the festival’s Red Parking Lot, Justin2805 Kline W. Reynolds St. The car contained 30 vials of refrigerated vaccine. In total, the 30 vials contained between 150 and 180 doses. Police responded to the grounds shortly after the incident occurred and obtained video footage of the suspect from a surveillance camera. The suspect is described as a lightskinned male, likely in his early 20s, with long hair and wearing a light-colored hoodie. The stolen Hyundai sedan has Florida license plate NPJJ58. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact PCPD. Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay is offering a $5,000 reward for information that leads to the identification and arrest of the suspect(s) involved in the case. Call 1-800873-TIPS (8477) to be eligible for the cash reward.

1 dead and several injured following shooting at a birthday party One person was killed and three others were injured following a shooting at a birthday party Saturday night. Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office received a call around 12:30 a.m. on Feb. 7 after a gathering of approximately 60 people took a violent turn. The family gathering was inside a rental barn on W.O. Griffin Road and HCSO said a verbal dispute escalated into an exchange of gunfire. Four victims were transported to area hospitals. One person, a 25-year-old man, died at Lakeland Regional Hospital. The three other victims were injured, but suffer non-life threatening injuries.

“A birthday celebration meant to be enjoyed was instead a nightmare,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a news release. “Our detectives are conducting multiple interviews and processing the scene to determine what led to this violent encounter that ended with the loss of a life.” All parties are accounted for and are cooperating with detectives. Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is asked to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at 813-247-8200.

HCSO investigates fatal train collision with vehicle in Plant City Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is investigating fatal vehicle-train collision in Plant City after an Amtrak train struck a truck with one occupant. HCSO deputies were dispatched to the railroad crossing at Jim Lefler Circle and US-92 at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Thursday. The driver of the truck was pronounced dead at the scene. According to HCSO, the Amtrak crew aboard the train told detectives that they blew the horn multiple times to indicate the train could not slow down. However, the truck did not clear the way. “At this time, it is unclear why the driver did not move off from the tracks as the train approached them at a high speed, unable to stop,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a news release. “Although the investigation is in the preliminary stages, there is no indication of criminal wrongdoing. It appears to be a tragic accident.” Detectives are currently working to identify the victim. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has any information that may be relevant to the investigation is urged to contact the HCSO at 813-247-8200.

HCSO investigating Dover homicide Detectives with Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office are looking into an incident in Dover that left one man dead Monday night. HCSO received several phone calls around 10:40 p.m. about shots fired near

a residence on Harwell Estates Drive. Deputies arrived and found a black male deceased in a driveway, and detectives do not believe it was a random act of violence. No suspect descriptions are available, so Sheriff Chad Chronister and HCSO are asking for the public’s help. “Our detectives are working with very little information right now at this point in their investigation,” Chronister said in a Tuesday afternoon press release. “I’m urging anyone who has any knowledge of what led up to this incident, or who heard something late last night in that area to please call us with that information.” Anyone with information is asked to call HCSO at 813-247-8200. Crime Stoppers Tampa Bay is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for those who call them at 1-800-873-TIPS (8477).

Jason Jones named chairman of Boy Scouts district The Boy Scouts of America’s Timucua District will now be chaired by Plant City businessman Jason Jones through 2021, the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council announced last week. Jones will now oversee the second-most populous district in the Tampa Bay area. The Timucua District has 52 units across southern Hillsborough County, including Plant City, Riverview, Brandon, Valrico, Lithia and Apollo Beach. The district also has three Venture crews and a Sea Scout ship for older scouts. “The way I live my life is through the Scout Law,” Jones said in a press release. “I love to be active in my community and serve on as many boards as I can. God, family and giving back to my community, that’s what I enjoy doing.” Jones is the owner of Advantage Restoration & Contracting and past chairman of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the Plant City Family YMCA. He has also been vice-chairman of the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center and a member of the Plant City Planning Board. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout back in his own scouting days and got involved locally as a volunteer when his

son joined the Cub Scouts. Jones has also been a den leader and an assistant Scoutmaster. Jones said his goal is to keep kids active outdoors and keep all of the Timucua units going strong in the second year of life in the time of COVID-19. “The biggest challenge is going to be this post-COVID period, getting kids active and out of the house,” Jones said. “We’re going to do it. We’ve got some great leaders. It will be a challenge, but we can do it. We can succeed.”

YMCA offers free diabetes prevention program for Medicare participants Qualified Medicare participants can partake in the YMCAs of Tampa Bay’s evidence-based, CDC-approved Diabetes Prevention Program at no cost to them. The 12-month lifestyle modification program has been proven to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes for those who are at risk. The Y Diabetes Prevention Program is offered both in-person and virtually at YMCAs across Tampa Bay, including the Plant City Family YMCA. A trained lifestyle coach provides a supportive environment where participants learn how to incorporate healthy eating, physical activity and behavior modification into their daily lives. Qualified Medicare participants can partake in the YMCAs of Tampa Bay’s evidence-based, CDC-approved Diabetes Prevention Program at no cost to them. The 12-month lifestyle modification program has been proven to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes for those who are at risk. Many insurance providers, including Medicare, Medicare Advantage, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Florida Blue and United Healthcare offer this program as a covered benefit for anyone who has been diagnosed as having prediabetes or who is at a high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. To qualify, Medicare recipients must have an A1C between 5.7-6.4 or a fasting glucose of 110-125. For more information, contact the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA at YDPP@ tampaymca.org.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

INSTAGRAMERS OF PLANT CITY SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON THE PAST IN HONOR OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH Buildings, parks and streets all over Plant City bear the name of legends from the black community. Few, however, know their stories. Photos courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

An Instagram account that focuses on highlighting the people, the community and events that make Plant City unique is shining a spotlight on an area of the city’s history that is often overlooked. Vicky Saunders, the creator of the Instagramers of Plant City Instagram account (@igersplantcity), has spent the last month and a half delving deep into the history of communities like Bealsville and the onceflourishing Laura Street Business District in order to create educational posts in honor of Black History Month. The first post went up Feb. 1 and each corresponding feature has increasingly gained traction as the community shares stories of its own and memories of the town residents call home. “I wanted to make sure that I use this account to share Plant City’s black history because we have so much history there and I don’t think it is appreciated as much as it should, be” Saunders said. “A lot of people might not realize the names of these buildings and parks are named after really important and groundbreaking people in this community. I want to shed light on the stories behind so many foundational aspects of this community and I hope that the posts kind of open that door for someone to take an interest and learn something new. Maybe it will inspire others to do more research on their own.”

The posts have shared stories like the history of Bealsville, written by Jon Wilson of Visit Florida. Bealsville is one of Florida’s oldest continuous African-American communities. Wilson explained that after the end of the Civil War, 12 former slaves on a frontier planation “stayed on to chart their futures.” He shares facts about the original 12 families and the hurdles they had to overcome to build their community. Alfred Beal was able to hold onto his land despite hard times due to his exceptional farming skills. Others’ property foreclosed and Beal bought the land to then sell back to the residents. He also donated land for a school, church and cemetery. The area was named in Beal’s honor in 1923. To this day, the Bealsville community makes it a point to keep the property in the hands of local residents. Saunders started her research at the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center and met with Executive Director Gil Gott. Saunders said Gott is a walking spring of knowledge. Instead of just stating facts, he can weave the various stories together to present a thorough picture of the community’s history. However, when it came to being able to put a literal image to his depth of knowledge, there was one slight issue: while the Photo Archives has a plethora of photos of the community throughout its history, there is a major lack of images of the city’s black history.

“We don’t have enough photos or even enough stories,” Gott said. “We have a lot of information and research, but not photos of the businesses and the activity that has been going on for generations in some of these communities around town. The newspapers didn’t cover hardly any of that activity back in the time of segregation and they had a very busy and very large and active community there. But the newspapers didn’t come, so we don’t have the photos. Anyone who can bring a photo in from Lincoln Park or Madison Park area, that would be great. We need to preserve our communities’ history, not just part of the community’s history.” Gott said anyone who has photos that tell the story of the community — whether they’re from their grandparents, aunts’ or uncles’ photo albums — the Photo Archives would love to be able to document and archive them. The center is open from 10:15 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Those interested can either come in or call 813-754-1578. Anise J. Brown, a former intern at the Photo Archives and History Center, published a series called “Growing Up Black in Plant City, Florida During the Time of Segregation and Inequality.” Some of her work and the stories that she unearthed have been highlighted via the IGers Plant City account. Brown shared stories of those who grew up in segregated schools using books that white students no longer used. In her

work, members of the community who grew up in one of the four schools where black students were allowed to learn reflected on their favorite teachers and the lessons they learned not only about their school subjects, but also about how to live in such a divided world. Saunders said groups like the Improvement League of Plant City, Bealsville, Inc. and iImpact Plant City are hidden gems in the community that everyone should take the time to learn from and support. Bealsville, Inc. continues to work toward enhancing the community and preserving the history of the historic area. “When you know the history of this community, it makes you love it more,” Saunders said. “Alfred Beal’s house, if we had enough awareness for how important that is to the community, maybe we could preserve it and make it the honored destination it deserves to be. Awareness leads to interest, which leads to people wanting to work hard to preserve the past.” The Improvement League channels a similar mission and has played a key role in preserving the history of Laura Street. Its members are filled to the brim with knowledge of the history of the community and its families. They can walk you down the street and point at various lots as they paint a picture of the bustling district it used to be. The group has a variety of events that pay homage to the rich history of the community. The

Bing Rooming House Museum also acts as a great start for one to dive into the stories, family trees and experiences of those who have long called the community home. The iImpact Plant City group’s mission statement is to “create community forums and workshops to help educate, enlighten and ‘empower to engage’ effectively on issues that impact Plant City.” The IGers Plant City account has many more posts lined up for the rest of the month and Saunders said the best thing to come out of it so far has been the conversations it has sparked among local residents. People are sharing their stories, adding facts and history from their own families and have said they are now looking into things they didn’t know before. “These stories kind of give you a blast to the past and they help you realize what it was really like to be a part of this community back then,” Saunders said. “I hope this is informing people and creating a deeper appreciation for the history behind all of these places and things in our community. This isn’t even scratching the surface of what is here, but I hope it’s a good starting point and will help inspire people to do more research and to look at their own family history and see if there’s photos or stories they should share to preserve them forever.”

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY

Observer

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigated a car wash fight, a rental scam, a stolen mailbox, a stolen Amazon

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

package and more.

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

Photo: iStock

Associate Editor / Sports Editor / Justin Kline JKline@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver.com

JANUARY 29

JANUARY 30

JANUARY 31

GOTCHA

CLEAN CARS, DIRTY DEEDS

QUENCH YOUR THIRST

JUST BROWSING

1910 block of James L. Redman Parkway Mutual affray: Officers met with two subjects who got into a fight at Oasis Car Wash. They also learned one of the subjects damaged a van during the affray. Both subjects, as well as the owner of the damaged van, declined to press any charges and signed waivers of prosecution.

2210 block of North Park Road Theft: This complainant stated a subject entered a store and stole a bottled drink. The complainant declined to pursue charges and signed a waiver of prosecution.

600 block of East Alexander Street Attempted vehicle burglary: This complainant stated someone appeared to have entered and rifled through his vehicle, though the subject in question did not steal anything from it.

1700 block of East Cherry Street Warrant arrest: Detectives witnessed a known male subject walking in and out of a residence. The subject had active warrants out of Hillsborough County for robbery, aggravated battery and false imprisonment. The subject was arrested and taken to Orient Road Jail.

FEBRUARY 4

MAIL CALL

BANG FOR YOUR BUCKET

500 block of North County Line Road Theft: This complainant stated an unknown subject was seen stealing a store’s tan plastic mail box with post. The mailbox was valued at $50. The complainant signed a waiver of prosecution.

PORCH PIRATE 800 block of West Mahoney Street Petit theft: This complainant stated someone stole an Amazon package from their porch at approximately 12:04 p.m.

TRICKED TENANTS 600 block of Vining Street Fraud: Officers met with complainants who stated they responded to a rental ad on Craigslist, sent money to the advertiser and later learned they were scammed with a fraudulent rental.

TRAILER TROUBLE 200 block of Eunice Avenue Fraud: This complainant stated he paid for a trailer he saw on Facebook Marketplace on Jan. 29, but that the sale turned out to be fraudulent.

3210 block of West Highway 574 Vehicle theft: This complainant stated someone stole an 18-foot utility trailer with a Kubota bucket loader overnight. HOME IMPROVEMENT 3010 block of Blakert Street Residential burglary: This complainant stated unknown subject(s) stole two stainless steel Whirlpool electric stoves from a DR Horton new construction residence overnight.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

COMMISH ROUNDUP: FOLLOW THE MONEY City commissioners approved some budget adjustments and work order modifications Monday evening to keep services flowing smoothly. FROM PAGE 1 BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

An unexpected deal led the city to quickly recalculate some business Monday evening. In 2009, the city began contracting for street sweeping services. The current vendor the city has used is USA Services of Florida, Inc. This company sweeps approximately 224 curb miles per month. Staff with the City of Plant City determined it would be more cost-effective for the city to actually own and operate the equipment. While demoing equipment, Southern Sewer Equipment Sales and Service, Inc. presented the city with an offer it could not refuse. The company said it would sell the city a Global R4 Air Street Sweeper demo unit at a significantly discounted price of $210,000 through a Florida Sheriff’s Association Contract. The machine can sweep both streets and parking lots and can

also be used for “sweeping services in response to emergency storm or hurricane cleanup.” In order to purchase the machine, commissioners had to adjust the budget and transfer $215,000 to the Fleet Replacement Fund. The total funds includes “$64,400 originally included as the lease payment and the additional $150,600 will come from the balance available in the Stormwater Fund.” During the public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2020-21 Budget, commissioners said they wanted to designate $3 million in the General Fund as an Emergency Reserve. These funds are what the city taps into in case of emergencies like a natural disaster. One of the most common uses tends to be in the event of a hurricane, as the city originally has to foot the bill for all of the cleanup and immediate response.

It takes months and sometimes years to be reimbursed by FEMA for the cost, so it’s crucial the city has a pool of funds waiting to be used. The Fund Balance/Reserve Policy was adopted Monday evening as part of this process. Some of the major components include: - Maintain a target level of 25% of operating revenues in General Fund and Enterprise Funds, and - Designate a $3 million emergency reserve in each of the following funds: General Fund, Water/Sewer Fund, and Solid Waste Fund. The City Manager executed a work order with Ardurra Group, Inc. in August 2020 to evaluate the construction of a solid waste transfer station. The original work order was for $41,832 and focused on the construction of a single bay transfer station

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building on the city’s wastewater treatment plant site. Then in December, the city changed the scope of the work to consider three sites — Turkey Creek Landfill at the northeast corner of Turkey Creek Road and Sydney Road, property in the vicinity of Coronet Road and Roberts Ranch Road and a site to be determined — so commissioners needed to adjust the budget to reflect the new work demands. The new additions include: “identifying and evaluating three sites to include potential site plans; developing floor plans for a two-bay transfer station and scale facility; and designing a customer drop-off area.” Ardurra said the new work would cost an additional $48,103, making the revised cost $89,935. The report said that “ultimately, the city will receive a final report to include the following:

1. The city’s anticipated waste volumes over a 20-year planning period. 2. Conceptual layouts for the proposed buildings. 3. Conceptual site plans for the proposed facility. 4. An engineer’s estimate of probable construction costs. 5. An estimate of operating costs for the new facility and a comparison to current operating costs. 6. An estimate of a payback period for the new facility.” Commissioners approved the modification to the work order and authorized the City Manager to execute the new work order.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRURY 11, 2021

PC FOOD BANK SCORES WITH NEW EVENT

The United Food Bank of Plant City hosted its new Food For All “tailgate” over the weekend. FROM PAGE 1

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Executive Director Mary Heysek briefly hopped on the mic to thank the crowd for their support of UFB, especially over the course of the past year when the organization has faced a demand unlike anything it has seen before. The pandemic has led to many losing their jobs and/or being food-insecure. The food bank has been a saving grace for families across the community and despite being unable to hold its traditional event, Heysek said they wanted to make sure they were still able to host something for the community to enjoy that would help UFB continue to give back. “I always talk about our community and how unique it is, how strong it is,” Heysek said. “This year was different though and we all know it. We had so many firsttime challenges and I had a front row seat to seeing extreme desperation in many of our families and our residents of our community. I saw many longtime businesses that we all know have been in business for many, many years have to make a tough

decision and lay people off… The food bank experienced unprecedented growth. Prior to COVID-19 we were serving 5,000 people a month. In a matter of weeks it went up to 10,000 people every single month.” The event acts as one of the food bank’s biggest fundraisers. In just the past year alone, UFB distributed 3 million pounds of food. Every pound of food stays with families in this community. Heysek thanked those who have supported them and asked that they continue to think of the food bank and donate when they can to help keep food in the pantries of those in need. Following her speech, the crowd noticed a plane circling the stadium. As a surprise performance UFB had The Chuters, a parachuting demonstration team, jump from the plane onto the field with the American flag and the UFB flag. You can watch a video of the jump on The Chuters’ Facebook page. Heysek said Food For All was a massive success and UFB hopes to make it a reoccurring event.

Photos by Breanne Williams 287682-1

The community gathered at Plant City Stadium on Saturday for the inaugural Food For All event. Attendees enjoyed “game-day food,” played games and socialized with friends.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

‘LOVE’S REVENGE’ OFFERS SPOOKY FUN FOR VALENTINE’S DAY Whether you’re in the mood for a Galentine’s Day to remember or want to go on an adventure with your partner, guests are invited to Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail for a unique Valentine’s Day haunt. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Love is in the air… and it’s out for revenge. This Valentine’s Day, partners have the opportunity to forgo traditional chocolates and fancy dinners and instead embrace an experience that is sure to make the night one they’ll remember for years to come. Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail, 2837 Frontage Road S., is offering a destination unlike any other for those who want to add some spookiness to their day of celebrating love. “This is our second annual haunted Valentine’s Day attraction,” Zach Glaros, owner of Sir Henry’s, said. “It’s themed ‘Love’s Revenge’ and will have our three trails that people really enjoy. But for this event we’ve added a love element to all of them. This is just another way for us to entertain our guests on a holiday and the need for this type of outdoor experience, especially now with all of the COVID stuff still going on — well, there’s just been a big response.” For those regulars at the many different holiday experiences offered at Sir Henry’s, learning the lore behind each trail is just as fascinating as the scares themselves. Weeping Roses is a trail that features the store of Mrs. Green. According to Sir Henry’s, “Hard

times make people do crazy things. And Mrs. Green is no stranger to hard times. After losing her flower shop business, many say she went mad. Her garden and flowers were her whole life. So she decided to take revenge on those in the town who never supported her business… No one, not even her husband, is safe from her wrath.” Collector of Hearts is another trail on the property. It follows the story of Poppy, who is obsessed with her new puppets. She “pushes one of her main henchmen, The Collector, to secretly harvest the hearts of victims in order to give life to Poppy’s puppets. Feeling the loss of Poppy’s love, he hopes that one day one of the puppets may fall in love with him when he fills them with a beating heart.” One of Sir Henry’s biggest hits at Halloween was the Candy Tree. It has been transformed into The Kissing Tree. “Over time, the candy tree was slowly forgotten. Until one day, a rumor started that by kissing your true love under the tree, you will have true love forever. But if the person is not your true love, the creature Kane will appear and devour you both.” If you want to go to the event, you must buy tickets in advance at sir henryshauntedtrail.com. Once online, you pick the day and time slot you wish to come into the park. Ticket sales are going

strong and Glaros said they are above last year’s numbers, so get yours in advance to make sure you get the time slot you prefer. COVID-19 safety precautions will be in place and all attendees are required to comply with CDC guidelines including wearing a mask and social distancing. There will also be a concession booth, a gift shop and photo ops for guests to take pictures as well as the characters from the trails walking around the premises. Depending on your speed and preference, the experience will take anywhere from one and a half to three hours to complete. Parking is free, but you must have your tickets in advance. “I think it's an opportunity for a couple to come closer together and bond over something scary and have that bonding experience that makes date nights so memorable,” Glaros said. “There’s the typical ‘go to the movies’ or go out to eat’ plan, but I think something different and overall exciting is a far more interesting way to spend your Valentine’s Day. It’s definitely an experience you will remember.”

IF YOU GO Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail “Love’s Revenge” When: Feb. 12, Feb. 13, Feb. 14. Time slots vary. Cost: Tickets from $25 Where: 2837 South Frontage Road, Plant City, FL 33566

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

FOCUS ON FITNESS:

SOMEWHERE TO BELONG Get to know Dawn Lucowitz, who is one of the Plant City Family YMCA’s most well-known fitness coaches and so much more. Dawn Lucowitz is known widely throughout the community as a fitness enthusiast, but she began her journey at the YMCA. She has a spunky, fun and energetic personality that will be sure to make an impact on your life! Lucowitz has been interconnected to sports and fitness most of her life and played collegiate basketball and lacrosse, eventually becoming a dual-sport Division I Hall of Fame athlete. She moved to Plant City in July 2018, unsure of what she wanted to do and even more unsure of where to begin. Not knowing anyone was a struggle so she sought help from a close friend who challenged her to visit gyms in the surrounding area to see what they had to offer, both personally and professionally. “I wanted to get to know Plant City and the YMCA ended up being the perfect place for me,” Lucowitz said. She thought she was coming to join as a member but soon realized there was so much more she wanted to be a part of. She felt an instant connection. “The second I walked in the door, I knew I could hang out with these people,” she said. Lucowitz started working as a wellness coach at the Plant City YMCA in June 2019.

She wanted to utilize her Group Exercise Certification but had also just become a personal trainer and needed a place to help her get started. “I wanted a place that I knew was going to foster my desire to teach and let me grow, but mentor and teach me at the same time,” Lucowitz said. She moved on to teaching classes varying from step to HIIT while building her personal training clientele. She developed a passion for group fitness and discovered a love for one-on-one training, especially with the senior population. Years before working with the Y, Lucowitz worked in a geriatric rehab facility as a social worker. This prior experience helped feed and grow that desire to help seniors become more confident, physically and mentally, through personal training. A few months later, Lucowitz became one of the Y’s certified LiveStrong coaches to help those affected by cancer to participate in physical and social activities with a safe, supportive environment. After that, she stepped up to the plate by becoming certified to teach Enhance® Fitness, which is a proven senior fitness and arthritis management program that improves endurance, strength, balance and flexibility.

“Because I had a lot of flexibility in my schedule, I was forced into teaching and trying new things I never would have done before had I not had the time,” she said. “Any new job you take, you have a little bit of that imposter syndrome. It’s having that job opportunity to be reminded, encouraged and pushed but also have people who are going to give you the right feedback you need to grow and be better next time.” Today, Lucowitz is not only a part of the Y but also a member of Toastmasters, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and Master Networker. For someone who is new and looking to get connected in their community, Lucowitz advised, “If you are looking to get connected and health is a priority, the Y is a great place because, yes, we have group exercise classes, machines, the pool and programs for every age group. But you get

a community, added support and the ability to relate to people of every age group. It’s multigenerational and I’m connected to so many more people than I could imagine because the culture at the Y fosters relationships.” You can see what the Y has to offer and meet Lucowitz for yourself. Stop by the Plant City Family YMCA, 1507 YMCA Place, call 813-757-6677 or visit https://www. tampaymca.org/locations/plant-cityfamily-ymca.

Hannah Franklin is the Wellness Director at the Plant City Family YMCA.

FEBRUARY 11, 2021

SPORTS

NATIONAL SIGNING DAY 2021 ROUNDUP Eleven local athletes from Plant City and Strawberry Crest high schools signed their letters of intent to play at the collegiate level last Wednesday. PCHS Athletics/Twitter

Quick Hits MIKEY’S PLACE HOSTS ARMWRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT

Justin Kline

Some of Florida’s strongest men and women went to Mikey’s Place, 3412 W. Baker St., on Saturday to compete for Powerhouse Armwrestling Federation’s Florida State Championship awards. The action began Saturday afternoon as pro and novice men and women went hand-tohand, left and right, in several weight classes. See more photos online at plantcityobserver. com.

Strawberry Crest Athletics/Twitter

CREST CHEER MAKES IT 7 IN A ROW

Strawberry Crest High School’s cheerleading team’s resume has only gotten better. Like Tom Brady, the Chargers have now gotten their championship count up to seven (though Crest’s have all been consecutive) and did it this year in the 2A Small division after winning the last six in Small Co-Ed. Durant’s team finished second overall in the 1A Medium division and Plant City’s team placed third in the 2A Small competition. Stay tuned for next week’s issue to read more about Crest’s historic 2020-21 season.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Though the COVID-19 pandemic changed much about the way college sports programs and high school athletes handled recruitment, one of high school sports’ most anticipated traditions stayed the same in the Plant City area and beyond. National Signing Day, which is the first Wednesday of every February, came and went with 11 athletes from Plant City and Strawberry Crest high schools signing their national letters of intent to play sports at the next level. The two schools are typically the only ones in the Plant City area to host a dedicated National Signing Day ceremony on campus every year and that didn’t change in 2021. Crest had a total of seven athletes sign their NLIs last week, including three softball players, two baseball players and one player from both the football and girls soccer teams. All four Plant City athletes who signed last week came from

the football team, bringing the program’s 2021 count up to five a month and a half after teammate Mario Williams signed with Oklahoma. Five of the 11 athletes chose to stay in Florida. Ohio and West Virginia were the second-most chosen states, each with two signees, and Maine and North Carolina each had one signee. Durant High School traditionally does not have National Signing Day events, opting instead to let each individual athlete have a day to themselves throughout the school year. For the 2020-21 winter sports season, the school celebrated as Kendall Drummond of the girls soccer team signed with Eckerd College in St. Petersburg and Matthew Lentz of the boys basketball team signed with Jacksonville University. All three Plant City-area schools will likely have more athletes sign NLIs by April, which is typically another busy month in the college recruiting scene.

NATIONAL SIGNING DAY 2021 ACTIVITY PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL Javoni Mitchell — West Liberty University (West Liberty, WV) Aramoni Rhone — Ohio University (Athens, OH) Jose Rodriguez — West Virginia Wesleyan College (Buckhannon, WV) Andrew Walden — Lake Erie College (Painesville, OH) STRAWBERRY CREST HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL Bryan Boully — Florida Atlantic University (Boca Raton, FL) Colby Fanning — St. Petersburg College (St. Petersburg, FL) FOOTBALL Jackson Bradford — Bowdoin College (Brunswick, ME) SOCCER Kali Vician — Montreat College (Asheville, NC) SOFTBALL Alyssa Grimes — Nova Southeastern University (Ft. Lauderdale, FL) Hayley Lynch — Nova Southeastern University (Ft. Lauderdale, FL) Sydney Watson — Chipola College (Marianna, FL)

Strawberry Crest Athletics/Twitter

PREP SCOREBOARD

BOYS BASKETBALL

GIRLS BASKETBALL

BOYS SOCCER

GIRLS SOCCER

FEB. 2 Durant 72, Gaither 66 Plant City 71, Hillsborough 69 Strawberry Crest 76, Spoto 64

JAN. 28 Jefferson 69, Plant City 24 Strawberry Crest 50, Gaither 23

FEB. 3 Durant 3, Lennard 2 (OT)

FEB. 4 Lakewood Ranch 1, Durant 0

FEB. 4 Newsome 5, Durant 1 Plant City 5, Tampa Bay Tech 0 Bloomingdale 2, Strawberry Crest 0

FEB. 5 Bloomingdale 1, Plant City 0 Strawberry Crest 3, Tampa Bay Tech 1

FEB. 4 Durant 66, East Bay 46 Carrollwood Day 67, Plant City 63 Strawberry Crest 82, Gaither 63 FEB. 9 Armwood 67, Strawberry Crest 46

JAN. 29 Durant 47, Sumner 38 FEB. 2 Strawberry Crest 56, Kathleen 47 FEB. 3 George Jenkins 54, Plant City 27 Armwood 82, Strawberry Crest 25

FEB. 9 Plant City 2, Bloomingdale 1 (OT)

FEB. 9 Strawberry Crest 2, Bloomingdale 0

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

PCHS BOYS, CREST GIRLS WIN DISTRICT SOCCER TITLES

CUTEST CRITTER

The Raiders and Chargers will advance to their respective regional tournaments after picking up wins Tuesday night.

Courtesy of PCHS Athletics

After Tuesday night’s action on the soccer pitch came to a close, nobody was more relieved than the boys of Plant City High School and the girls of Strawberry Crest High School. Both teams won their respective districts’ championship games Tuesday night. These two teams are also somewhat bound by coincidence: scoring twice against the Bloomingdale Bulls was enough to get each job done Tuesday night, and both teams got to this point by beating Tampa Bay Tech in their district semifinal games late last week. The Raiders found themselves in a nailbiter of a game that went to extra time. Miguel Alvarez gave Plant City a 1-0 lead in the first half, but Plant City gave up the equalizer in the second half and the Raiders’ offensive efforts to get back in the lead weren’t enough in regulation. Fortunately for the Raiders, David Ruiz netted the golden goal for the win in just one period of extra time.

Do you want Plant City to see how cute your favorite pets are? Send your pictures to Staff Writer Breanne Williams at bwilliams@plantcityobserver.com to be featured.

Strawberry Crest, on the other hand, did not need to worry about any overtime action and dispatched Bloomingdale with a 2-0 shutout win. Ezra Carpenter scored one goal in each half and Crest played lockdown defense to lock up their second consecutive district championship. If these teams’ similar district tournament experiences weren’t enough, fear not: there’s plenty more where that came from. Both finished the regular season with just two losses in regulation. Both have similar overall records (14-2-1 for the Raiders, 13-2 for the Chargers) after Tuesday’s action. Both started the 2020-21 season with 10-game win streaks between Nov. 10, 2020 and Jan. 6 of this year. Both are now riding two-game win streaks after losing their regular-season finales. If both teams are superstitious at all, they may consider rooting for one another from this point on. Crest will begin its regional run on Feb. 16 and Plant City will be back in action Feb. 17.

Strawberry Crest Athletics/Twitter

HEDWIG: After Hedwig’s mom disappeared, Chris Black found this adorable kitty and rescued him. Now Hedwig has a good home and all the love and attention he could ever want.

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JANUARY 2021 PLANT CITY OBSERVER

REAL ESTATE

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

REAL ESTATE Local January 2021 sales and trend information courtesy of The Crawford Group. Permit information was obtained from the City of Plant City.

Last month, 63 properties sold at an average price of $269,669, or $144.36 per square foot. Mitchell Crawford, of the Crawford Group, said the average selling price per unit has increased 7.1 percent over the yearly average and 21 percent from January 2020. He added that homes last month spent an average of 34.1 days on market versus 49.6 days in January 2020. Last January, 63 homes sold at average prices of $208,662 and $118.62 per square foot. Last year, the average selling price was $244,978 and $134.77 per square foot. “The numbers, any way you look at them, are strong,” Crawford said. “The limiting factor is supply. We have very limited supplies for the new buyers out there, which accounts for less than one month’s supply of available homes to sell. You have to get creative to win the contract war with so many buyers competing — one of the many reasons to use a real estate professional in your transaction process. P.S.: If you purchased a home in 2020 and closed prior to Dec. 31, 2020, please don’t forget to apply for your Homestead Exception. The deadline to file is March 15. This will save you on your real estate taxes in the coming year.” JANUARY 2021 SALES SNAPSHOT The following properties were a sample listed as sold on the Greater Tampa Realtors Association MLS in January 2021. The home at 5601 Joyce Sheffield Lane sold Jan. 2 for $155,000. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,630 square feet of living area. The home at 1402 N. Gordon St. sold Jan. 28 for $185,000. Built in 1906, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,456 square feet of living area. The home at 401 Midwood Drive sold Jan. 19 for $200,000. Built in 1964, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,564 square feet of living area. The home at 5234 Pancho Villa Lane sold Jan. 27 for $215,000. Built in 2008 it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,557 square feet of living area.

TOP BUILDING PERMITS

The home at 3706 Trapnell Ridge Drive sold Jan. 28 for $240,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,774 square feet of living area. The home at 6216 Bob Head Road sold Jan. 19 for $255,000. Built in 1958, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,290 square feet of living area. The home at 1210 N. Orange Street sold Jan. 22 for $265,000. Built in 1953, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,807 square feet of living area. The home at 3204 Thackery Way sold Jan. 1 for $277,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,041 square feet of living area. The home at 5608 Glen Harwell Road sold Jan. 29 for $295,000. Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,783 square feet of living area. The home at 1101 Swilley Road sold Jan. 13 for $325,000. Built in 1965, it has five bedrooms, two baths and 2,303 square feet of living area. The home at 2722 Majestic Oaks Court sold Jan. 29 for $340,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,182 square feet of living area. The home at 5112 S. Armor Road sold Jan. 15 for $400,000. Built in 1979, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,546 square feet of living area. The home at 2006 Masters Way sold Jan. 2 for $423,500. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, three and a half baths and 3,131 square feet of living area. The home at 243 E. Trapnell Road sold Jan. 22 for $459,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,806 square feet of living area. The home at 3229 Lampp Road sold Jan. 7 for $785,000. Built in 2001, it has five bedrooms, three and a half baths and 3,469 square feet of living area.

These are the largest building permits issued in Plant City for the month of January 2021, in order of dollar amounts. Address

Permit

Amount

3607 Fancy Farms Road

Commercial buildings

$7,919,260

1519 S. County Line Road

Commercial industrial

$4,390,000

1819 James L. Redman Parkway

Commercial industrial

$4,000,000

781 S. County Line Road

Plumbing

$675,000

791 S. County Line Road

Plumbing

$525,000

791 S. County Line Road

Electrical

$411,371

2262 Pixie Way

Electrical

$380,000

809 Alexander St.

Building modification

$328,588

1003 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$231,589

1005 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

2808 Wilder Meadows Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

1001 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

928 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

1002 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

907 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

2813 Wilder Meadows Lane

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

920 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

905 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

913 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

914 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

927 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

919 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

923 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

911 Walden Pond Drive

1 or 2-family residence

$207,168

2802 Wilder Meadows Lane

1 or 2-family residence

$201,453

CRAWFORD & ASSOCIATES CRAWFORD & ASSOCIATES

Outstanding Agents. Outstan Outstanding Agents. Outstanding Results. Outstanding Agents. Outstanding Outstanding Agents. Outstanding Results. R CRAWFORD & ASSOCIATES

CRAWFORD & ASSOCIATES

(813)967-0168 or (813)305-1616

2803-4 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City Florida 33566 (813)967-0168 or (813)305-161 (813)967-0168 or (813)305-1616 (813)967-0168 or (813)305-1616 (813) 967-0168 (813) 549-9412 Office: (813) 305-1616 | Fax: (813) 754-8099 Email: Malissa.Crawford@Gmail.com

James L.Plant Redman Parkway, Plant 33566 City Flor 2803-4James James2803-4 L. Redman Parkway, City Florida 33566 2803-4 L. Redman Parkway, Plant City Florida Office: (813) 305-1616 |Office: Fax: (813)(813) 754-8099 Email: Malissa.Crawford@Gmail.com RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE 305-1616 | Fax: (813) 754-8099 Email: Malissa.Crawford@G

288047-1

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

Office: (813) 305-1616 | Fax: (813) 754-8099 Email: Malissa.Crawford@Gmail.com

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

289704-1

We asked Facebook:

We asked Facebook: What was your favorite moment of the Bucs’ big Super Bowl win? “When a Plant City boy tackled the streaker. Deputy Stearns” — Sarah Tickel VanCamp

“The Weeknd performance! My daughters were so happy and my husband so confused!” — Yuri Piña

“It was in Tampa and they won! That’s the best part!” — Art Marcus

“Streaker on the field.” — Bret Walley

“HCSO tackling the streaker!” — Ashley Gerace

“The Hillsborough County Sheriff deputy from Plant City getting the tackle at a one-yard line” — Kenneth Bowers

“When we knew they had it” — Barbara Skaggs Ward

“When Mathieu was talking crap to Brady, and Brady went right back at him.” — Courtney Danielle Davis

“Seeing Mahomes leave the field alive. I like the guy and was worried about him.” — Meg Scott “Rob Gronkowski hand over heart during the national anthem no greater moment than that.” — Patsy Prosch “The streaker!” — Mary Navarro

DID YOU KNOW? The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office deputy who was the first to reach the now-infamous streaker was none other than Plant City’s own Clinton Stearns, who recorded his first tackle during a football game since his playing days at Plant City High School. Stearns, who graduated in 2009, played on both sides of the ball as a dual-threat quarterback and a safety in his time with the Raiders’ varsity team. It wasn’t Stearns’ first time on national television, either. He was also featured in an episode of COPS in which he conducted a traffic stop on a male driver not wearing a seat belt and found much more stashed in the vehicle — including drugs and a gun. You can watch Stearns’ segment online at youtube.com/watch?v=NcxZttal4SE.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

Guzman Rebollar, 65, of Plant City, born on October 2, 1955 in Mexico City, Mexico, entered into eternal rest on January 24, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Raymond Wayne Calhoun Raymond Wayne Calhoun, 70, of Lithia, born in Cincinnati, Ohio on October 3, 1950, entered into eternal rest on February 3, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Dennis ‘Denny’ Michael Hallman

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Dennis “Denny” Michael Hallman, 67, of Plant City, born in Tampa on Timothy Shawn June 14, 1953, entered into eternal ‘Babe’ Dean rest on February 3, 2021. Expressions of condolence Timothy Shawn “Babe” Dean, 58, at HopewellFuneral.com. of Lithia, formerly of Clanton, Alabama, born in Dover, New Jersey on June 24, 1962, entered into eternal rest on February 7, 2021. Expressions of condolence HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM at HopewellFuneral.com.

Catherine Howell Bramlett

Catherine Howell Bramlett, 76, of Plant City, Florida, born in Plant City on March 18, 1944, entered into eternal rest on February 3, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Julia E. Edwards Julia E. Edwards, 82, of Valrico, born in Bloomingdale on December 20, 1938, entered into eternal rest on February 4, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Maria Magdalena Johnson

Seffner, FL 33584. A Memorial Service will follow at 6 PM. In lieu of flowers if so desired, donations can be made to the Seffner Christian Academy or Moffitt Cancer Center. Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Feliciana Medina Barrera

OBITUARIES

Guzman Rebollar

Maria Magdalena Johnson, 86, of Plant City, passed away on Jan. Feliciana Medina Barrera, 71, 28, 2021. The family will receive of Plant City, passed away on friends Feb. 13, 2021 from 10 to 11 February 3, 2021. A Funeral Mass AM at Haught Funeral Home, 708 was held February 9, 2021 at St. W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL Clement Catholic Church, 1104 33563. A Memorial Service will N. Alexander St., Plant City, FL follow at 11 AM. If so desired, in 33563. lieu of flowers donations may be Online condolences may be HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM made to The American Cancer left for the family at haught. Society. care. Clint Stephens Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care. Clint Stephens, 59, of Lithia, passed away on February 7, HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM 2021. The family will receive friends Friday, February 12, 2021 HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM James Thomas Jr. from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Shiloh Baptist Church 905 W. James Thomas Jr., 50, of Barbara Mahoney Terrace Dr., Plant City, FL 33563, Plant City, passed away on where funeral services will folSunday, January 31, 2021. Barbara Mahoney, 90, of Plant low at 11:00 AM.W E ’ RE P RO U D TO S E RV E our community James was born toNovember City, passed away on February we’re dedicated helping families create a and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since Online condolences may 29,1896. 1970unique in Tampa. 8, 2021. Services will be held celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, be left for the family at www. memories and expresprivately. > 100% Service GuaranteeFond > National Plan Transferability > The Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance haught.care. sions of sympathy may be Online condolences may be shared at www.WellsMemorileft for the family at haught.care. R al.com the Thomas Proudly supporting the Plant for City Strawberry Festival. family.

Taking care of each other is what

community

is all about.

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Manuel Garcia Jr. Mr. Manuel Garcia Jr., 63, of Lithia, went home to be with the Lord on February 6, 2021. He was born on February 12, 1957 in MatamorosTamaulipas Mexico. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

Barbara Ann Blackburn Barbara Ann Blackburn, 87, of Plant City, went to be with the Lord on Feb. 4, 2021. The family will receive friends Feb. 16, 2021 from 5 to 6 PM at First Free Will Baptist Church, 11605 US-92,

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Florida until he moved to Plant City and attended Turkey Creek First Baptist Church with his daughter’s family. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him. Robert was laid to rest at Florida National Cemetery. Arrangements by Sun City Center Funeral Home, 813-634-9900.

Robert Lee Tucker Robert Lee Tucker, beloved husband and father, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, February 3, 2021. He was preceded in death by his devoted and loving wife of 51 years, Eleanor (Mickey) Tucker. Robert is survived by his children, Terry Lynn (Alan) Lewis, Steven Mark (Denise) Tucker and Sandra Lee (Robert) Dorey. Robert is also survived by his 11 grandchildren, Angela Brown, Brian (Tiffany) Lewis, Jennifer (Ricky) Lindsey, Jessica (Cody) Walker, Katelynn (Bronn) Pav, Kindle Tucker, Meghan (Jacob) Willis, Pamela (Griffin) Norris, Ryan (Danielle) Dorey, Robert Campbell and Trisha (Greg) George; and 25 greatgrandchildren, the apple of his eyes and the love of his heart. Robert was born in Charleston, West Virginia on July 20, 1931. He served in the West Virginia National Guard. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1952 and served his country with pride until he retired in 1971. Upon retiring from the USAF, he moved to Florida and worked for Tampa International Aviation Authority until he retired again in 1987. Robert was a Christian who loved serving in his local church. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church in Sun City Center,

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

BEST BET FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12 MOVIE TRIVIA NIGHT 7 to 8:30 p.m. Bring your friends and family to the loft at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., and test your movie trivia knowledge. It’s free family fun with full audience participation and chances to win a “krazy kool” prize.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11 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.

Margaret Ann Pitre

Margaret Ann Pitre, 84, of Tavares, went to be with the Lord on January 26, 2021. She was born on December 2, 1937 to Archie and Mildred Lee. She retired from Smithfield Foods after over 30 years. She loved working in her yard outdoors with her plants, playing Bingo, going to church and the Florida Gators. She is survived by one son, Robert Sikes, and one daughter, Lisa Miller; her seven grandchildren, Tyson Braswell, Brooks Braswell, Amanda Geltz, Jason Braswell, Amy Whitaker, Ciara Miller and Jeremy Miller; along with 15 greatgrandchildren. A celebration of life will be held at First Baptist Church in Umatilla on February 20th at 11am.

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

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13 THE WRITERS’ LOFT 9 a.m. Visit the loft at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., on the second Saturday of every month for the Writers’ Loft. Poets, writers, artists, musicians and more creative types who work in all genres at all skill and experience levels are welcome. Admission is $5 and a free drink is included. GALENTINE’S AT THE CORNER STORE 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit the Corner Store, 121 W. Reynolds St., for a pop-up Galentine’s Day brunch and market featuring vendors such as So Effing Good, Henry + Holland, Brookie’s Kitchen and Wooden Bowl Cakery. The Corner Store will serve

CARPETS Steam Cleaned

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Ken Miller at 863-409-7714 to reserve your spot and visit djkenmiller. com to look at sample playlists and get more information.

GARDEN LOVERS VALENTINE PICNIC 12 to 4 p.m. Enjoy a unique and exclusive event in the Plant City Community and Botanical Gardens. Six socially-distanced tents are arranged in the gardens for a private picnic. Each tent is furnished with a uniquely decorated table, handcrafted foods and sweet treats specially prepared by Chef Shannon Shearer and her team of Garden Sous Chefs. Two to four persons per seating in each tent. $50.00 per person. Twelve seatings available. Reserve by sending $50.00 (per person) via PayPal to plantcitygarden@gmail. com https://www.paypal.com/ donate?business=ZXWCJ68YJEQF8. Email plantcitygarden@gmail.com or call (504) 338-2962 for more information.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16

OPEN MIC NIGHT 7 to 8:30 p.m. Open Mic Night is back at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. You get to be the show in this “krazy” fun night. To sign up, visit https://forms.gle/tYPLqRiyYBmNTtCP9. PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Square Dance Center, 4401 Promenade Blvd. Plant City Social Dance will have dances every Saturday night in the month of January at the Strawberry Square Dance Center. From 6 to 6:30 p.m., there will be ballroom music for ballroom dancers. The regular dance goes from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.The cost to dance is $7 per person and attendance is limited to 50 people with reservations. Call DJ

GRIEFSHARE AT HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Following the death of a loved one you may have found that there are not many people who understand the deep hurt you feel. To help the many members of the Plant City, Lakeland and Brandon communities dealing with those feelings of emptiness, loneliness and hurt, Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 North Park Road, will again offer GriefShare, a special seminar and support group for those grieving the loss of loved ones, every Tuesday in 13-week morning and evening sessions. During this time of COVID-19, all participants are required to wear a face mask during class and to socially distance. To register for either class or for more information contact Hope Lutheran at 813-752-4622.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17 FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY VETERANS 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served any time in the military, retired or nonretention, and would like to review your benefits, please take advantage of free assistance at the Bing House Museum, 205 Allen St., every Wednesday. Walk-ins welcomed or call 813-704-5800 to set a specific time. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken at the door.

Emergency TILE & GROUT Emergency

Water 24-HR. 24-HR. Water Steam Cleaned Extractions Extractions 50c per sq.ft. Storm, Storm, Broken Pipes, Broken Pipes, etc. etc.

CARPETS

TILE

3 Rooms $85

Steam Cleaned

includes Hallway cleaned free

Water Extraction 24-Hr Service | Carpet Dyeing & Repairs

www.AllSaintscc.com 813-986-1266 813-986-1266 www.AllSaintscc.com 813-986-1266 www.AllSaintscc.com

Water Extraction 24-Hr Service | Carpet Dyeing & Repairs

www.AllSaintscc.com

its brunch boxes and Nine Fruits’ Dragonfruit Raspberry champagne. The event is sponsored by Today With Rae.

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FORECAST

Send your photo submissions to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@PlantCityObserver.com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

THURSDAY, FEB. 11 High: 83 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 24%

FRIDAY, FEB. 12 High: 84 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 18%

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Feb. 11

7:08a

6:17p

Friday, Feb. 12

7:08a

6:17p

Saturday, Feb. 13

7:07a

6:18p

Sunday, Feb. 14

7:06a

6:19p

Monday, Feb. 15

7:05a

6:20p

Tuesday, Feb. 16

7:04a

6:20p

Wednesday, Feb. 17

7:04a

6:21p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, FEB. 13 High: 82 Low: 67 Chance of rain:46%

SUNDAY, FEB. 14 High: 79 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 54%

MONDAY, FEB. 15 Audrey Rose Bartlett snapped this shot of nature’s take-out dining process behind her home in Walden Lake.

ONLINE

High: 81 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 62%

Across 1 Unresponsive state 5 Loosen up, to a pitcher 10 Light bulb unit 14 Welcoming 15 African howler 16 “Sin City” actress Jessica 17 *New Jersey city on Raritan Bay 19 Thick slice 20 Semicircle, say 21 Green Gables girl 22 Kick back 23 Comic Smirnoff 25 *Leader of the pack 28 Wiener schnitzel meat

30 Red Sea country 31 Trembling trees 34 Terrier’s sound 35 Disney frame 38 *It prohibits unreasonable searches and seizures 42 Boy king 43 Mr. Rogers 44 Cleared from the board 45 Family car 48 Elvis’ middle name 49 *Light-bulb-over-thehead instance 52 Sherpa’s land 56 Large pears 57 Actress Skye 59 The “E” in BCE 60 Boo-boo

61 Spam relatives ... and a hint to the answers to starred clues 64 Tease mercilessly 65 Curved moldings 66 Frozen drink brand 67 Souvenir shop apparel 68 Lyrics 69 Rx items Down 1 Insured’s contribution 2 Wagner work 3 Pharmaceutical giant 4 Industrious crawler 5 Word in a comparison 6 Pew book

7 Buck the system 8 Beatle bride 9 “No __!”: “Uh-uh!” 10 Message on a dusty car 11 NATO and others 12 Pre-Little League game 13 Card-playing surface 18 Lack, briefly 22 Cell pic taker 24 Walkie-talkie word 26 Combustible pile 27 Playboy founder Hugh 29 Hindu retreat 31 Away from the bow 32 Trifling amount 33 Saves for later 34 __ Ray, one of folk rock’s Indigo Girls 36 Chicago-to-Lansing dir. 37 Inc., in England 39 Top of the line 40 Went on and on 41 Pride of lions? 46 Show hosts 47 One side of a two-column list of rules 48 Made up (for) 49 Scrub the launch 50 Mandel of “America’s Got Talent” 51 San Fran gridder 53 Tranquility 54 Packing heat 55 Does high-tech eye surgery on 58 Legendary loch 61 Milk source 62 Previously 63 Pronoun that’s a homonym of a religious song

Feb. 11 New

Feb. 16 First

Feb. 26 Full

Mar. 8 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

1.59 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

FEB. AVERAGE:

02.73 in.

2.82 in.

STRAWBERRIES Shipping point: Central Florida $18-$24.90

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

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