2.16.23

INDUSTRIAL PARK REZONING APPROVED DESPITE OPPOSITION BY RESIDENTS

INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY WILL SPAN THE LENGTH OF EIGHT FOOTBALL FIELDS.

peace and quiet of country living.

When Oscar and Donnet Ferguson built their dream home in Mystic Oaks subdivision, nestled between orange groves, in unincorporated Hillsborough County in 2008, they were looking forward to the

That peace and quiet has been interrupted in the last 15 years thanks in part to disease that’s plagued citrus trees and created opportunities for developers to scoop up agricultural land for residential, commercial and industrial projects.

At Monday night’s City of Plant City commission meeting, commissioners adopted PC/CPA 22-09 Future Land Use Map

Amendment to the Plant City Comprehensive Plan and, after a quasi-judicial public hearing, approved the rezoning of 67 acres from Hillsborough County Residential-1 (59.89 acres) and Plant City Commercial (7.25 acres) to Plant City Industrial. The property, owned by Griffin vestment Properties LTD., is located north of North Frontage Road, west of North Maryland Avenue, east of Procchi Street and south

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF PLANT CITY HOSTS

NIGHT TO SHINE

FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

PLANT CITY PARKS & RECREATION TO HOLD

SEVERAL EVENTS THROUGHOUT COMING MONTH

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

The Plant City Parks & Recreation Department has announced several upcoming events that they will be hosting throughout February, March and April.

The fist event will be Kids Bike Day, in partnership with the Plant City Police Department. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, 302 S. Maryland Ave, on Saturday, Feb. 25. The free event encourages kids to get outside and moving, with participants encouraged to bring their bike, scooter and helmets as they have fun while learning rider safety. The event will feature a bike obstacle course, bike inspection, outdoor games and more. And while the event is free to attend, pre-registration is required.

Registration is also now open for Parks & Rec’s annual Youth Fishing Derby, taking place on March 11 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. The event is open for all kids from the ages of fie to 15, with pre-registration open from now until March 10 and registration on the day of the event available from 7:30 to 8:15 a.m. The event will take place

at the back parking lot at Plant City Stadium and all anglers are encouraged to bring their own pole, the bait of their choice and a fie-gallon bucket to transport their fish o the weight station. Prizes will be awarded for the top catfish and ass overall, along with awards for the largest weight and most fish aught by each age group. For more information, email recinfo@ plantcitygov.com or call 813-659-4255.

Then on Saturday, April 8, Parks & Rec will host their 34th Annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2602 E. Cherry St., from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event will feature free hot dogs and drinks for all kids, with an easter egg hunt for all kids from age three to 11. The event will include over 10,000 eggs — along with hidden golden eggs. The egg hunt event is free for all to attend, with bunny photos, inflaables, train rides and more all additionally available with the purchase of a $5 Bunny Band. For more information, contact special events coordinator Ivanna Ibarra at iyibarra@plantcitygov.com or call 813659-4255.

of East Sam Allen Road. The future land use will allow for up to 1.46 million squarefeet of industrial use with the only access point on North Frontage Road.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

EVERY GUEST WAS CROWNED AS PROM KING OR QUEEN.

Worried about fitting an appointment into your busy schedule? Our Plant City location makes booking visits easy for the whole family.

Need an appointment soon? We are accepting new patients and offer same-day appointments.

To make an appointment, please call:

• 863.284.5000 for Primary Care or Pediatrics

• 863.284.5115 for Rheumatology

ARTS COUNCIL TO HOST WALKING TOUR OF PLANT CITY SCULPTURE EXHIBIT

The Arts Council of Plant City will be hosting a walking tour of the current J. Seward Johnson sculpture exhibit in Downtown Plant City this month.

The tour will take place on Thursday, Feb. 23, starting with a brief presentation at the Plant City Photo Archives & History Center, 106 S. Evers St. The presentation will begin at 6 p.m.with refreshments and a review of the seven sculptures currently on display. The tour will then leave the Photo Archives at 6:30 p.m. and the walk will proceed to the sculptures along Collins, Palmer, Reynolds, Wheeler and Evers St. The tour will be hosted by former executive director of the Photo Archives, Gil Gott, and Archives curative of collections, Erin Schulte.

The sculpture exhibit is sponsored by the Arts Council of Plant City along with sponsoring partners the City of Plant City, Unity in the Community, and Plant City Photo Archives & History Center. The tour is free for all to attend and comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

PLANT CITY TO HOST MILLENIAL SUMMIT THROUGH BUILDING STRONG FAMILIES, INC.

The Building Strong Families, Inc., in partnership with G.R.O.W. Plant City, will host the Millennial Summit for young professionals on Saturday, March 4,2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center in Plant City. The theme of the Millennial Summit is “Lean into Success” and is designed to provide young professionals, particularly those Generation Z and Millennials in their 20s, 30s, and early 40s, with resources, information, and practical strategies to support them as they navigate their career path. The focus of the Millennial Summit is on career success, financial sucess, and mental health wellness. The specific topics to be covered are: “Charting Your Career Path”, “Smart Money Moves”, and Self-Care: Prioritizing You”. Additionally, Mr. Phillip Walker, Vice President of Partnerships & Research for the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce will present the luncheon keynote address on “You Belong in the Room”. The speakers include Nikki Foster, Community Investment Manager, Diversity and Inclusion from Mosaic; Liesta Sykes from the Florida Department of Children and Families; Zacharry Wilson, a financial planner; and Dr. Benetta Wholuba, a licensed clinical psychologist at Orange Park Medical Center. There is no cost to attend the Millennial Summit, but seating is limited and pre-registration is required by February 27 at http://wwwBuildingStrongFamiliesOfFlorida.com or by contacting Dr. Pauline Rivers, Founder and President of Building Strong Families, Inc. at 813-759-0260.

At the average prom, its only the most glamorous or popular students that get crowned as prom king or queen.

Night to Shine isn’t your average prom because every guest leaves the event with a crown and the title of prom king or queen.

Sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation, the prom, open to anyone living with disabilities 14 and older, is held simultaneously all around the globe, at locations on almost every continent. Plant City’s Night to Shine, held on Feb. 10, was hosted by First Baptist Church of Plant City (FBCPC). This was the church’s fourth year hosting the event, attended by more than 150 guests from all over central Florida.

“The event is a celebration of God’s love for everyone,” said event coordinator Lisa Hendricks, who taught special needs students at Hillsborough County Public Schools for 25 years. “Helping the special needs population and their families is my passion.”

More than 300 volunteers helped guests have the prom of a lifetime by providing a walk on the red carpet surrounded by paparazzi, a catered dinner by Hungry Howie’s, karaoke, shoe shining, face painting, balloon art and limo rides. Each guest was paired with a volunteer buddy for the evening who doubled as their partner so they could move and groove on the dance floo.

“Dancing is what they enjoy the most,” said Hendricks. “It’s neat to watch because they’re so uninhibited and just want to have fun.”

For Tony Ballard, it was his 38-year-old daughter Christin’s third time attending the event. He helped her register the fist time but every year since she registered by herself. She loves to dance. “When dancing is involved she sometimes comes home limping with her shoes off,” he said. “I’m actually jealous because even though I went to my own prom this one blows mine away.”

Nikole Whitehead brought her two children. Andrew (35) has attended the event several years in a row but it’s the fist prom for her adopted daughter Abigail

EVERY GUEST WAS CROWNED AS PROM KING OR QUEEN.

(15). Both children have Down’s syndrome. “Abigail was excited that she was old enough to attend this year,” she said.

While her children enjoyed the prom, mom was upstairs in the parent/caregiver area talking to other parents about the realities of raising adult children with disabilities, from discussing guardianship issues to how to set up wills and trusts to making sure their children are taken care of when they pass away. “This is a great setting to discuss this with others who are going through the same challenges,” she said. “After they finish chools most of the work falls on the shoulders of parents to work through the maze of the available resources to put together a life for them.”

The event ended with the crowning ceremony and a video message from Tebow. Hendricks appreciates the hundreds of volunteers who help make the event a success every year. “We couldn’t do it without the tremendous support of members of the community who help fund this event,” she said. This year FBCPC raised more than $16,500 to offset costs.

For more information about Night to Shine visit www.nighttoshine.com.

Rick Lott Recognized As Outstanding Citizen of the Year

of local education and youth sports. In 2012, he started hosting the entire Wilson Elementary fifth gade class at City Hall for “Meet the Mayor” day where he taught students about the importance of Federal, State and Municipal governments. Every year he writes letters to all of Plant City High School’s graduating seniors, congratulating them on their achievements and offering encouragement of their future endeavors.

Friends and colleagues described Lott as a goal setter, a true visionary, a dedicated Christian man, a loving and supportive husband, valued business partner, the embodiment of a true Southern gentleman, a person who loves to help others reach their dreams and potential but always finds time o have fun and make everyone laugh.

Plant City native Rick Lott was named 2023 Outstanding Citizen of the Year at The Kiwanis Club of Plant City’s 64th Annual Award Luncheon Wednesday afternoon at the Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Hall.

“Every year when I attend this event I look at the pictures of past recipients and it’s an honor to be among them,” he said. “It’s dearly touched my heart and I thank you for the blessings bestowed upon my and my family.”

In his acceptance speech, Lott, who was born in Plant City, described how he

quickly left after high school. “I wanted to get outta here because I thought Plant City was too small but as I traveled I realized that I missed it and the people of this city,” he said. “I definiely think it’s because we’re a god-fearing community and that binds us together as we love one another.”

Lott has demonstrated his love for the community by sharing his time, talents and treasures in so many ways. He served on the City Commission for 18 years, 11 as Mayor (making him the longest serving mayor in Plant City). During his time as mayor he championed a millage rate increase with one mil to be dedicated and used annually for street resurfacing improvements. He also served on Hillsborough County’s Metropolitan Planning Organization, later renamed the Transportation Planning Organization, where he

prioritized the County’s fie-year transportation projects. A successful businessman, Lott led business and economic development efforts through the creation of the Plant City Economic Development Corporation (PCEDC) in 2015 to market eastern Hillsborough County as a premier business destination along the I-4 corridor. He’s served on several boards and committees including the Hillsborough County tourist Development Council, Tampa Bay Economic Development Corporation, Visit Tampa Bay and as Chair of the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Plant City. He served as Chairman of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce in 2005 and is a longtime Director for the Florida Strawberry Festival.

Lott has been a long-time supporter

Last year’s recipient, Jack Holland, presented the award to Lott. “I’m honored and humbled to stand here today to announce the 2023 recipient,” he said. “Plant City has a secret sauce that makes us special and this event is part of that secret sauce, we are preserving our past for the benefit of the future.”

Started in 1960 by the First National Bank of Plant City as an adjunct to the Florida Strawberry Festival, the event has been hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Plant City since 1970 as a way to express their appreciation to good citizens for their unselfish giving f their time, talents and resources for the betterment of the community. The program is supported by Plant City’s civic clubs, including the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City, Plant City Lions Club, Plant City Optimist Club, Plant City Daybreak Rotary, Plant City Noon Rotary Club and Aspire Plant City.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Jack Holland congratulates Rick Lott who was recognized as Outstanding Citizen of the Year for 2023.

Night to Shine guests get down on the dance floor at First Baptist Church of Plant City.

Prom guests strut their stuff on the red carpet prior to Night to Shine.

COPS CORNER

PLANT

This week on Cops Corner, Plant City Police investigate: A stolen package, shooting drivers and missing appliances.

CUT IT OUT

600 block of S. Frontage Rd. Business burglary: An officer responded to a business at the listed location and met with the complainant who was informed by his employees that an unknown individual cut the back fence and stole multiple tools from a business building.

DRIVING BY

S. Park Rd. / E. Alsobrook St. Discharging a fiearm from a vehicle: An officer responded to the area at the listed location in reference to a witness reporting two vehicles with occupants shooting at each other.

SIGNED, SEALED, NOT DELIVERED

900 block of Loganderry Ln.

Petit theft: An officer responded to the listed location and met with the victim who reported the theft of a package from their front door.

NO GOING BIKE

S. Maryland Ave. / E. Laura St.

Drug arrest: While on patrol, an officer observed an individual on a bicycle without any front or rear lights. The individual was subsequently charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance in addition to using a false name to a law enforcement officer.

FEBRUARY 4

HEAVY LIFTING

3400 block of Birdie Hawkins Ln. Grand theft: An officer responded to a construction site at the listed location and met with employees in reference to a forklift. One individual was subsequently arrested and charged with grand theft in reference to the forklift and transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

HOLE-Y MOLY

100 block of N. Pearl St. Shooting into an occupied dwelling: An officer responded to a residence at the listed location after learning that a single gunshot was heard and a bullet hole was subsequently discovered in the front door of the residence.

FEBRUARY 5

HIGHLY QUESTIONABLE

S. Alexander St. / Airport Rd. Drug arrest: Officers encountered a disabled vehicle in the roadway at the listed location. One individual was subsequently arrested for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

FEBRUARY 6

LONG TIME COMING

Police Pl.

Fraud: An officer met with the victim who wanted to report a case

of fraud that occurred to their account at the Railroad Credit Union in July 2015.

NO ONE’S HOME

3700 block of Capri Coast Dr. Residential burglary: An officer met with a construction company employee who advised that an unknown individual removed a Whirlpool washer and Whirlpool dryer — each valued at $500 — from the home under construction at the listed location.

FEBRUARY 8

NEW CHARGES

200 block of Lovely Ct.

Fraud: An offer met with the victim who advised that their credit card was used to make a $24 purchase at Walmart.com.

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“This project is in my literal backyard and I’m worried that when it’s constructed we’ll hear the sounds of tractor trailers all day and night,” said Donnet Ferguson.

Mystic Oaks resident Joe Distrito also attended the commission meeting to express his concerns about the project. “I’ve lived in Mystic Oaks for fifeen years and we have homes in our neighborhood valued at up to a million dollars,” he said. “The idea of having a bunch of warehouses going up in our backyard is going to be an eyesore and cause problems.”

Distrito and the Fergusons think the property would be suited for residential development, especially with the nearby hospital close to completion. “It would be a

great place for doctors and nurses to live,” he said.

Planning and Zoning Coordinator Robyn Baker expressed concerns about the amendment’s incompatibility with the city’s comprehensive plan by rezoning from Residential-4 (the least intensive category) to Industrial (its most intensive category), the stress the project will place on roadways and the project’s depth, reaching the length of eight football fields north of North Frontage Road. “The comprehensive plan was a document we set up with guidance for staff o make decision,” she said. “It provides guidance for orderly growth, it provides stability and predictability.”

After Baker’s presentation and comments from residents, commissioners discussed the request.

Commissioner Dodson said the request and Baker’s comments emphasizes how

badly the master plan needs an update.

“The plan was last updated about a decade ago and what hasn’t changed is our assets, the fact our city is intersected by Interstate-4,” he said. “We’re in the business of city building and we have to understand the need to create jobs for it to survive and if you’re successful in doing that people will want to live here.”

Vice-mayor Michael Sparkman also supported the project. “I’d much prefer this project over the 753 apartments that were slated to go there,” he said.

After discussion, Commissioner Dodson moved to approve the motion. Both passed with a vote of four to one with Mayor Kilton abstaining due to a conflict f interest.

“The city commission weighed the benefit o the community against restrictions of the master plan,’ said City Manager Bill McDaniel. In the city there are roughly 7.6 jobs per household, a strong position on

putting money into the community, people

The commission is discussing an update to the master plan.

To help protect residents, the project’s preliminary site plan shows four buildings situated around the perimeter of the property with the central area being used for semi-truck traffic Buffering of nearby properties will be achieved with a berm, fencing and/or trees.

That’s not much comfort to the residents of Mystic Oaks.

“My husband has had two brain surgeries and I’m afraid for him and the noise this project will bring,” said Donnet Ferguson. “We wouldn’t have moved here if we knew this was going to happen.”

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Oscar and Donnet Ferguson are disappointed that their backyard neighbors will one day be an industrial park.

TWO

NEW FUTURE

LAND USE CATEGORIES FOR PLANT CITY

CITY COMMISSION ADOPTED FUTURE LAND USE CATEGORIES A/R-1 AND A/R-2.

2023 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL QUEEN/ COURT AND JUNIOR ROYALTY QUEEN/COURT RECOGNIZED BY CITY COMMISSION

COMMISSIONERS PRESENT THEM WITH A PROCLAMATION, THE HIGHEST HONOR A CITY COMMISSION CAN BESTOW ON ITS CITIZENS.

After almost a year of planning, the city commission approved the creation of two new future land use categories that will allow for continued agricultural uses and low-density residential development options in the Plant City Comprehensive Plan.

Those categories are: Agricultural/ Residential-1 (A/R-1, allowing one dwelling unit per gross acre) and Agricultural/ Residential-2 (A/R-2, allowing two units per gross acre), which are similar to most lands that abut Plant City in unincorporated Hillsborough County. These plan categories will allow the consideration of farmsteads, ranches, churches, public uses such as parks, large-lot single-family home sites and uses related to agricultural production. In addition, A/R-1 allows for the consideration of non-residential structures up to 30,000 square feet or a .25 floor area ratio (FAR), whichever is less. This increases to 60,000 square feet or a .25 FAR, whichever is less, under A/R-2.

Before the change, Plant City’s least dense future land use plan category was Residential-4, which allows for a suburban development pattern with up to four dwelling units per gross acre. Planning Commission staff ought input from other partner agencies, including Environmental Protection Commission, Southwest Florida Water Management District and Hillsborough County.

Retired planner Mark Hudson made the presentation to the commission and spoke in favor of the new categories. “As parcels voluntarily annex into the munici-

pality from unincorporated Hillsborough County, it may be appropriate, at least in the short-term, to recognize an agricultural or low-density residential development pattern in some of those areas as opposed to more dense or intense plan categories, such as Residential-4 or Industrial,” he said. “In some instances they will provide for a smoother transition for these areas."

The new plan categories may allow for additional time to plan and construct needed public infrastructure before more intense residential, commercial or industrial uses are proposed and appropriately accommodated and served by Plant City. They may also discourage the premature and speculative conversion of these parcels to more intense land use plan categories when annexing into Plant City.

“As we continue to annex agricultural lands, it’s a spot for them to come into the city,” said Mayor Kilton.

It was also suggested the new plan categories be used judiciously, since they tend to require more services in comparison to the revenue they generate for the municipality and if widely used could negatively impact the capital and operating budgets of Plant City.

After no comment from the public, the motion passed with a vote of fie to zero. For more information contact the Planning & Zoning Department at 813659-4258

The city commission honored the 2023 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen/Court and Junior Royalty Queen/Court with a proclamation, the highest honor that can be bestowed upon its citizens. The proclamation extols the Florida Strawberry Festival and its legacy of uniting citizens and the community as it preserves the agricultural and historical legacy of the Florida strawberry and that the crowning of the Queens and Courts is an event highlight.

This year’s Queen and Court are: Queen Kennedie Clinton, First Maid Jaida Davis and Court Members Addison Raburn, Fe Ramirez and Kaleigh Salmon. This year’s Junior Royalty Queen and Court are: Queen Madelyn Marie Hardwick, Princess Giselle Elena McDowell, Duchess Olivia Pilar McDowell and Baroness Aubrey Sweeney.

“On behalf of the entire court we’re grateful to represent our town,” said Clinton.

Before the meeting, the girls taught Commissioner Mathis the signature Tstance, also called the Pretty Feet pose, where you stand one foot behind the other, the front foot facing forward while the back foot angles at 45-degrees. “I have a special connection to some of these young ladies and their parents,” she said. “I look forward to seeing you ladies around the festival.”

Mayor Kilton congratulated them on the well-deserved honor. “This is going to be a very special time for you,” he said.

The Florida Strawberry Festival runs from Thurs., March 2 through Sun., March 12.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

City commissioners recognize the 2023 florida trawberry festival queen and court.

City commissioners recognize the 2023 Florida Strawberry Festival Junior Royalty Queen and Court.

THE ‘ROGUE’ IS THE ‘ONE’ YOU WANT TO KEEP!

ROGUE

AWD (PREMIUM)Tires: 235/55R19

Wheelbase: 106.5 inchesLength, 183 inchesWidth: 72.4 inches

Height: 66.5 inches

Weight, 3,713 poundsFuel capacity: 14.5 gallonsCity: 28 mpgHighway: 34 mpg Base price: $38,640

Price as tested: $43,100 Web site: www.nissanusa.com

Guess which is Nissan’s top-selling vehicle in the United States? No, it isn’t the popular Altima sedan. It is the Rogue, a compact crossover that has delivered a cozy well-damped ride while targeting youthful and active lifestyles. For 2023, the 1.5-liter DOHC turbocharged engine develops 201 horsepower @ 5600 rpm and 225 pounds-feet of torque @ 4000 rpm. It is coupled with a continuous variable transmission, which can be noisy at times. The electric power rack-andpinion steering conveys a solid on-center feel, willing to change directions when hustled along on the road. An independent strut with coil springs makes up

the front while the rear is equipped with a multilink suspension. The all-wheeldrive system distributes torque evenly to the wheels irrespective of road conditions. Ensconced on the unibody-type structure is a V-motion black grille with chrome accents, and LED headlights and daytime running lights.

Offered at no extra cost on the Platinum trim are dual auto a/c, 9-inch touchscreen for infotainment controls, eight-way driver and four-way frontpassenger power and heated seats, quilted semi-aniline leather seats and shifter, tilt/telescopic steering column, pushbutton start, 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 10-speaker Bose premium audio system. Ingress and egress is

effortless with the 60/40-split rear seat, which when folded, ekes out 74.1 cubic feet of space. And passenger volume is an admirable 105.4 cubic feet. An underfloor cargo area tray can come in handy to store soaked belongings. Need to haul extra luggage/belongings? The roof rack capacity can hold up to 220 pounds of weight. Dual front and side airbags, front center airbag, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, vehicle dynamic control, antiskid system, front seat active-head restraints, rear cross traffic alert, front/rear crumple zones, hill start assist, blind spot warning, lane-departure warning, auto emergency brake with pedestrian detection, daytime

running lights and tire pressure monitoring system are standard. Looking into the future of autonomous transport, the ProPilot Assist helps drivers to maintain their lane, and set vehicle speed and distance to a car ahead. Listen up, all you younger and urban SUV buyers. Nothing beats the Rogue in usefulness, functionality, respectable fuel-economy figures and value. In fact, it is one handy ‘Rogue’ you want to keep by your side, or in this case, parked in your garage.

Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabay. com and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.

NITISH S. RELE

CUTEST CRITTER

Do you want Plant City to see how cute your favorite pets are?

Send your pictures to Staff Writer Taylor Jenkins at tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com to be featured.

PLANT CITY WOMAN HIT BY TRAIN

GOFUNDME SET UP TO ASSIST VICTIM’S FAMILY WITH FUNERAL

A tragic accident took the life of 27-yearold Shantisa Turner last Friday when, while attempting to cross the railroad tracks on Maryland Avenue just south of Baker Street she was struck and killed by a westbound Amtrak train.

“She was one of the sweetest people I’ve ever known and had a heart of gold,” said longtime friend Samantha Oneal. “She had unconditional love for everyone that was just so pure and innocent.”

Marissa Williams, a mother to four children, also knew her well. “She loved animals, she had a bearded dragon named Frank and would take him everywhere,” recalls Williams.

The pair have fond memories of the woman who loved to cook, draw, make bath bombs and foot scrubs and dance. “She was always the life of the party,” said Oneal.

Her friends said when the accident happened she was walking home from a trip to the Strawberry Patch and only a couple blocks from home. Oneal and Williams said she was happy about the plans she had

made for that evening.

A makeshift memorial was set up where she passed away where mourners have left flwers, balloons and stuffed animals. Oneal and Williams said the place brings them peace. “The trains pass by and I think she’s on a train and going away from here,” said Oneal. “She’s going home where she can be with her mom who passed away ten years ago on Feb. 13, 2013.”

Even though they can’t see her anymore, they still sense her presence. Oneal said during a toast at the memorial, a balloon tapped the top of her glass, like Turner was offering her own toast. During a balloon release on Sunday night, the stop bars went down and lights flashed but no tain was in sight.

The Turner family created a GoFundMe to help with funeral costs. To donate visit www.gofundme.com and search Shantisa Turner’s Memorial Funds.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

GRACIE: Juan Alvarez sent the Observer this photo of his pup Gracie, wearing the new Lightning jersey she got for Christmas.

TWO PLANT CITY SCHOOLS HONORED WITH NATIONAL MERIT AWARDS

LINCOLN ELEMENTARY MAGNET AND MARSHALL MIDDLE MAGNET SCHOOLS

RECOGNIZED FOR THEIR COMMITMENT TO HIGH ACADEMIC STANDARDS.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Magnet Schools of America (MSA) , a national organization representing more than 4,000 magnet schools and programs, has recognized Lincoln Elementary Magnet School and Marshall Middle Magnet School with Magnet Schools of Distinction Merit Awards for their commitment to high academic standards, curriculum innovation, successful diversity efforts, specialized teaching staff and arent and community involvement.

Fifteen other Hillsborough County Public Schools earned the distinction, placing the county in sixth place in the nation for the number of schools receiving the honor.

It’s not the fist time Lincoln won the distinction.“We’ve earned the award every year for at least a decade,” said Lincoln Elementary’s IB Coordinator Sarah Keel. “We’re excited to be recognized again this year for our distinction of teaching students not just academics but how to look at issues from different perspectives and be more internationally-minded.”

Keel said the award is a reflection f the collaborative efforts of the school, families and community. Parent Megan Haynes, whose children attend Lincoln, comes from a long line of educators and recognizes exceptional educational programs. “Lincoln promotes higher order thinking skills and problem solving strategies-engaging below level students to the most advanced students,” she said. “Also, as part of the IB Magnet curriculum, there’s a culminating activity at the end of each unit which asks

the students to apply what they’ve learned to create a way to help the planet and/or community.” This gives purpose to learning and helps to make it relevant, she said.

Marshall Middle Magnet School Middle Years Programme Coordinator and Magnet Lead Teacher Kathy Webb said its the fist year the school has earned the award. “As a newer magnet school that just earned authorization as an IB World School, we definiely had to have a lot of pieces in place to get recognized,” she said. Some of those pieces included cataloguing the positive things happening at the school, from hands-on learning to a band director that recently earned his PhD to the many clubs offered as an extension of learning.

“All of these things have helped us earn this merit award,” she said.

Both schools have demonstrated tremendous commitment to students. “The teachers and staff at thse top-tier Magnet Schools provide innovative and engaging educational environments along with unparalleled opportunities for students,” said Superintendent Addison Davis. “These impressive awards reward their hard work and determination, and I am thrilled that our students will continue to benefit fom this rich tradition of excellence through our district’s Magnet Program.”

The schools will be recognized at an upcoming Board Recognition Meeting. For more information about Magnet Schools of America, visit www.magnet.edu.

ITALY: Myrna Santos, Rose Smith, Bettye Goodwine and Jeannie Adum took a copy of the Observer with them as they traveled through Italy and visited the Vatican.

SPORTS

PLANT CITY ADVANCES TO DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP BEFORE FALLING TO WINTER HAVEN

After

After putting together a 21-4 regular season record, Plant City entered the 7A District 9 tournament as the second seed, earning a bye to the district semifinals where they faced a 14-11 Durant team that was fresh off of a 71-36 drumming of Haines City in the quarterfinal round. Hosting the Cougars in a packed Plant City High gymnasium, the game went down to the wire as the Raiders escaped with a 44-40 win in a hard-fought rivalry match.

Plant City opened the scoring with a jumper from senior Damian Jones to give the Raiders a 2-0 lead, followed by another tough layup by Jones on Plant City’s next offensive possession as he battled through contact at the rim. Durant senior Xavier Peavy earned a trip to the line and hit both free throws to cut the deficit to 4-2 and a pair of offensive rebounds on their next trip down the court resulted in a bucket from senior Abiola Adeyemo to knot the contest at 4-4. A steal for Durant — paired with more strong offensive rebounds from the Cougars — led to a layup from senior Cam Cotal to give the Cougars their first lead of the night, followed by yet another steal on the defensive end and a midrange jumper

from Peavy for an 8-4 advantage. Threes from Plant City’s Malachi Morris and Ray Cowen, separated by a layup from Adeyemo on the other end, left the two teams tied at 10-10 heading into the second quarter.

The second quarter began with a lengthy scoreless streak from both sides, with over half the period ticking away before Plant City junior Mike Bell broke the spell with a three to give the Raiders a lead back at 13-10. After a defensive stop for the Raiders, Jones then ran the court and converted a layup on the fast break to extend their lead to 15-10, but a second chance bucket from Durant junior Isaac Correa and a layup in transition from junior Austin White had the Cougars back within one. But the Raiders finished the quarter with a floater from junior Chase Dexter and a pair of free throws from Bell to take a 19-14 lead into halftime.

Durant quickly wasted no time clawing back within one with a quick three from White to open the third and the two teams battled back and forth, bucket for bucket, in the third. Heading into the fourth, Plant City held on to a narrow 29-24 lead and were able to just stay ahead of the Cougars for the remainder of the night as they escaped with a 44-40 victory and advanced to the district championship for a rematch against top-seeded Winter Haven. Entering the district championship last Friday, Winter

Haven had compiled a 22-4 record, ranked as MaxPreps’ #3 team in the state of Florida, only trailing Montverde Academy and Miami’s Columbus High School.

The two teams had previously faced off in early December, with the Blue Devils taking a 73-60 victory over the Raiders, so Plant City certainly faced an uphill battle if they hoped to topple Winter Haven and lift a district trophy.

Looking to slow the game down, Plant City opened the contest with a long possession but were ultimately unable to convert at the rim before Winter Haven opened the scoring with a three, a defensive stop and a bucket inside to take a 5-0 lead early. Crisp ball movement on the other end led to an open three from Jones but Winter Haven immediately answered with another score from inside the paint, then drew a foul on the shot and hit the lone free throw, then converted on a transition layup after another defensive stop to pull out in front 10-3. A quick run from Plant City put them right back in the contest though, heading into the second quarter trailing just 12-10. In the second, Winter Haven began to pull away. Despite Plant City’s best efforts to keep it close — battling back to close the early deficit to just 18-14 midway through the quarter — Winter Haven took advantage of their strong defense, a massive size advantage across

their lineup and red-hot shooting to take a 34-21 lead into halftime.

In the second half the Blue Devils continued to show why they are one of the premier basketball programs in the state, outscoring the Raiders 49-23 over the final two quarters to claim a district championship on the heels of an 83-45 victory.

But despite a loss in the district finals, the Raiders were strong enough throughout the regular season to earn a three seed in their region where they will face Alonso.

Currently holding an 18-8 record, Alonso will head to Plant City with some familiarity still in the back of the minds of both programs as the two teams met less than two weeks ago when the Ravens claimed a razorthin victory over the Raiders in a 50-49 overtime matchup. Fresh off of a 48-32 playoff loss of their own against Plant, Alonso will make their way to Plant City for the regional quarterfinal matchup at 7 p.m. on Thursday.

PLANT CITY BASEBALL OPENS PRESEASON PLAY AGAINST BLOOMINGDALE

The Raiders fell to the Bulls on Monday, returned Wednesday in big preseason matchup against Durant.

Plant City baseball opened up preseason play against the Bloomingdale Bulls on Monday, falling 5-0 in another installment of the area’s annual round robin preseason play featuring three local teams in Plant City, Durant and Bloomingdale.

“We are a very good team, even if we didn’t show it tonight yet,” Plant City head coach Mike Fryrear said. “Obviously we’ve got some new guys playing some new positions and we’ve got a catching situation. We put a guy back there that hasn’t caught since little league and he’s worked hard but we tried to make him a catcher in a week and it doesn’t happen like that, but I saw a lot of good things with our team too. They don’t give up, we just didn’t have any timely hitting, we didn’t play small ball and I was even rusty as a coach. it’s been a year since I’ve coached my last game. With that being said we’ll get back to the drawing board tomorrow, we’ll try and fix what we can fix, the accountability of getting guys in and being unselfish at the plate, trying to move guys over and bunting more, but we’ve got a really good team and I think there’s going to be something special with this team. “

And as is typically the case for preseason play, it was an opportunity for the Raiders’ offense to get geared up against live pitching while fans in the stands got to see one of Plant City’s talented starting arms in Adan Longoria, a senior USF signee.

With the Raiders the acting home team, Longoria took the mound to open the top of the first where he was extremely strong to

start the contest, freezing his first hitter on an outside fastball to get the strike out looking before striking out the side as he baited two more swinging strikeouts on elevated fastballs to work through the top half of the frame without issue.

After the Raiders hitters went down in order in the bottom of the first, Longoria opened the second with his fourth consecutive strikeout to begin the game. With a deep flyout to left and a line out to left, Longoria left the mound still perfect through two frames.

The Raiders were held without a hit again in the bottom of the second and Longoria picked right back up where he left off in the third. After a four-pitch strikeout, ending the at bat with an off-speed pitch low in the zone that drew an unsuccessful swing, he fell behind in a 3-1 count to the next hitter. A pair of foul balls left the count full before he got a strikeout looking on a changeup, followed by another strikeout looking to end the frame. Through three, Longoria was perfect without surrendering a hit or a walk while striking out the side twice on seven total strikeouts.

In the bottom of the third, Plant City’s offense posed their strongest threat of the night. After a leadoff walk from Wellington Hehn, a double play ball quickly took the Raiders’ first baserunner of the night off the field, but back-to-back-to-back base knocks from senior Wyatt Forham, senior Deven Gonzalez and junior Colin Pellicer instantly put the pressure on Bloomingdale again with a bases loaded, two-out opportunity. But a flyout on one pitch the next

at bat ended the threat. And in the top of the fourth, Bloomingdale broke through. A walk followed by a hit batter gave the Bulls runners on first and second. A double steal attempt led to a throwing error, allowing the first run of the contest to cross the plate while Bloomingdale’s trail runner moved up to third. A groundout to third allowed the second run to score and Longoria would eventually work out of the inning to limit the damage to a 2-0 deficit.

In the top of the fifth, a leadoff single and a bunt single with a strikeout in between ended the night for Longoria as relief pitcher Tanner Rollyson — a senior that recently signed with Florida Southern — entered the game. A pair of passed balls initially allowed runners to advance to second and third, then allowed the Bulls’ third run to come across and the trail runner to advance to third, but Rollyson was able to escape the jam with just one unearned run coming home.

The Bulls tacked on two more runs in the sixth and the Raiders were held scoreless in the contest as they fell 5-0.

There are some growing pains with the Raiders’ lineup, something that’s expected with the nature of high school ball where seniors are always graduating and guys are forced to step up, but those growing pains become more evident when you lose some of the massive power that Plant City lost in now-departed sluggers Colin Shultz and Jackson VanDerZee, two seniors last year that led the team in batting average at .378 and .362 respectively, also combining for 13 home runs and 41 runs batted in.

“As far as replacing those guys, you’ll never replace them,” Fryrear said. “We just have to be a different kind of team this year. We’ll be a pitching-loaded team obviously, and defense has to be our key.”

But despite the loss, Plant City immediately began preparing for a matchup with Durant on Wednesday where two of Florida’s top pitchers for the class of 2024, Plant City’s Chase Mobley and Durant’s Blaine Rowland, faced off. Florida State and Florida commits respectively, the two aces pitched together throughout little league before joining rival high schools a few years ago and will surely catch eyes from across the nation throughout this spring and next.

While Durant and Plant City played their preseason contest on Wednesday, the game was played after to the Plant City Observer had gone to press. Further coverage will be provided.

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

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

beating rival Durant to reach the district finas, the Raiders couldn’t overcome one of the state’s top teams.

DURANT GIRLS BASKETBALL FALLS IN REGIONAL QUARTERFINAL

The Cougars finished their eason at 19-6 after their loss to Riverview Sarasota.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

After falling to Winter Haven in their district championship the week before, Durant hosted Riverview Sarasota in their regional quarterfinal game where they ultimately fell by a final score of 57-45, ending their year at 19-6.

For Durant, it was a chance to exact revenge on Riverview Sarasota after the Rams had previously eliminated the Cougars from tournament play in last year’s regional quarterfinal. In addition, the two teams played in late December, with Riverview Sarasota once again coming away with a 71-61 win.

Durant opened the scoring in an instant, with a pass downcourt to senior Maggie Lauber right off of the opening tip, ended with an easy layup to give the Cougars a 2-0 lead. Riverview Sarasota battled for a pair of offensive rebounds on the other end before finishing at the rim through a foul, hitting the lone free throw to take a 3-2 lead. And after both teams battled through a lengthy scoreless streak, the Rams added two more buckets to take a 7-2 lead before senior Sophia Flair drilled a three to cut into the deficit. A steal from Durant led to Lauber driving the lane on the other end, drawing a foul and converting on one free throw to make it 7-6. And Lauber followed the play up with another steal and ultimately finished the fast break opportunity herself to give the Cougars their lead back at 8-7. Two more buckets from Lauber allowed Durant to end the quarter on a 10-0 run and head into the second with a 12-7 lead.

Durant then opened the second quarter with an open layup from Flair to take a 14-7 lead, but Riverview Sarasota immediately battled back by

getting stops on defense and in turn utilizing their size advantage inside to wrap up rebound opportunities, score inside and draw fouls. After an 8-0 run for the Rams, holding a 15-14 lead, Durant finally ended their cold spell with a midrange bucket from Flair, followed immediately by a quick three from Flair to retake their lead at 19-15. But despite the Cougars’ best efforts to hold off the rallying Rams, Riverview Sarasota immediately responded with a 10-0 run and took a 25-19 lead into halftime.

The Rams opened the third with a three to extend their lead to 28-19 and were able to hold their lead for the remainder of the contest, never letting Durant claw back despite a hard-fought battle from the Cougars as Riverview Sarasota escaped with the win and advanced to the regional semifinals.

But despite an unfortunate ending to the season, overall it was yet another exceedingly successful one as the Cougars finished the year at 19-6, compiling a 39-11 overall record over the past two seasons. The charge was led by the senior group of Lauber, Flair, Ki’Ajanae Gordon and Miani Mejia, now leaving Durant after putting together two of the winningest seasons in school history and lifting the school’s first girls basketball district championship since 2017 last year with a win over rival Newsome in the district finals.

While Gordon was named Second Team All-Western Conference, Lauber and Flair earned First Team recognition while Flair was also named the Western Conference Player of the Year. Additionally, Lauber, Gordon and Mejia recently signed with Hillsborough Community College where they will continue their athletic and academic careers together later this year.

“Maryland fried chicken!” - Heather Ann

“Sweet Missions.” - Vic Hamilton

“ABC Pizza or Olde Town Pizza.” - Jean Rogers Carlisle

“Jersey Mike’s!” - Ashley Going

“Taco Rey and Kyoto.”Amanda Hartnett-Knoll

“Can’t ever get enough of the deviled crabs from Linda’s Crab Shack.”Patricia Fraiser

“Brick House, Johnson’s BBQ, Olde Town.” - Janae W. Sparkman

“Brick House Cafe!”Keith Crowe

“I always enjoy going to Snellgroves. Not very fancy, but it has a variety of daily specials. Also, it’s homey. I also love Maryland Fried Chicken!” - Michael Manee

“Wooden Spoon and Fred’s.” - Linda Riggsby Kender

“Applebees or Olde Town.” - Madison Norris

“Fred’s, hands down.”Jean Hillje-Collins

“Smokin’ Aces or Norma’s.” - Tiffany Jones

“Esposito’s.” - Larry Taylor

“Norma’s.” - Karen Quinones

“Wasabi.” Joey Tomasina

“Smokin’ Aces.” - Gary Hughes

“Duke’s Brewhouse.”Madalynn Wilmoth

“Mr. and Mrs. Crab.”Douglas Garrett

as a secretary for Western Electric Company, Haverhill, Massachusettes during World War II. She also worked as a secretary at First National Bank, Plant City, and was a school teacher for 20 years, having taught at Robinson and Dover Elementary Schools. Mrs. Martin was a member of Plant City’s First Baptist Church.

Alice Jean Martin

Alice Jean Martin, 98, of Plant City, Fla., passed away on Jan. 26, 2023 in Lakeland, Florida.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Edwin G. Martin, Sr.; twin infant daughters, Jane and Joan; and daughter-in-law Bonny Martin. She is survived by her two sons Edwin “Ted” Martin, Jr. of Marietta, Georgia, and Craig Martin (Hazel) of Windermere, Florida; daughter, Constance Martin of Plant City; grandchildren, Scott Martin (Stephanie) of John Creek, Georgia, Bradley Martin of Woodstock, Georgia, and Brian Martin (Jennifer) of Winter Garden, Florida; great-grandchildren, Zachary, Kathryn, Lukas, Chandler, Jackson, and Ethan. Mrs. Martin was born in Merrimac, Massachusetts, and moved to Plant City in 1947. She graduated from Lasell Jr. College in Auburndale, Massachusetts, and from the University of South Florida. She worked

Marshall E. Dentmon

Marshall E. Dentmon, 71, of Plant City, Florida, born in Piedmont, Alabama on November 11, 1951, entered into eternal rest on January 23, 2023. Expressions of condolences at www. HopewellFuneral.com.

A memorial service, with Pastor Tommy Warnock officiatin will be held at First Baptist Church Plant City (old church fellowship hall chapel), 503 N Palmer Street, Plant City, on Feb. 25, 2023 at 11 a.m., where the family will begin receiving friends at 10 a.m. Interment at Memorial Park Cemetery, Plant City. In lieu of flwers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church Plant City at www. fbcpc.com, and/or Shriners Hospitals for Children at www.shrinerschildren. org. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuenral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Bryceton V. Scott

Bryceton V. Scott, Jr., 79, passed away on Feb. 05, 2023 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in Lakeland, Fla. Bryceton served in the United States Navy. Services will be held privately by the family.

Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.

Jose A. Morales

Jose A. Morales, 77, passed away on Feb. 7, 2023. Services will be held privately.

Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.

Eulalia Gasper Estaban

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Jeffey Scott Giddens

Jeffey Scott Giddens, 62, of Lakeland, born on December 17, 1960, in Plant City, entered into eternal rest on February 9, 2023. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Paul Michael Williams

Paul Michael Williams, 77 of Plant City passed away Feb. 2, 2023. Paul was a veteran of the US Army. Paul will be interred at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.

Online condolences may be left for family at haught. care.

Eulalia Gasper Estaban, 42, passed away on Feb. 12, 2023. Friends and family will gather Feb. 17, 2023, at 6 p.m. at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33563.

Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

having private services. Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care

OBITUARIES

Gerald (Jerry) E. Winchester

Gerald (Jerry) E. Winchester passed away on Jan. 19, 2023 after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Born Aug. 5, 1938 in Flint, Michigan to Eugene and Evelyn (Meriwether) Winchester, Jerry attended Flint Technical High School. He met his future wife, Gloria Ann McClure, in 1955 and they married in 1958. Jerry joined the Navy and was honorably discharged. After his service Jerry and Gloria moved to Plant City, Florida and began raising a family. He was a lifelong printer, opening his own business, Area Litho, Inc. in Lakeland, Fla., in 1981. He loved sports and was a coach to his kid’s youth teams, he also enjoyed playing golf and traveling with family and friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Gloria Winchester. Sons Terry (Pam), Mark (Wendy) of Lakeland, FL, Tracy (Adriane) of Cumming, GA and daughter Kari (Robb) Allen of Brandon, FL. He has six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Sisters Gayle Miller of Lakeland, FL and Kathy Killilea, of Overland Park, KS. Interment: Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL

BEST BET

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18

STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN

3 to 6:30 p.m. at 102 N. Palmer St. The Plant City Strawberry Classic Cruise-In is back on Saturday, Feb. 18, rain or shine. Cars and trucks of all makes, models and years can register for free starting at 3 p.m. Live music by DJ John Paul Gasca.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16

MOBILE FOOD PANTRY

8 a.m. at 702 E. Alsobrook St., Suite H. The United Food Bank of Plant City will be hosting their mobile pantry. The event is open to everyone on a fist come, fist serve basis and will be held behind their building. For more information, call the United Food Bank of Plant City office at 813-764-0625 ext. 5.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18

ETSU BLUEGRASS PRIDE BAND

7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Making their way to Plant City all the way from East Tennessee State University, the ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band will be in town to celebrate Valentine’s Day at Krazy Kup, serenading you and your sweetheart the way they know best — with bluegrass music! The Loft at Krazy Kup offers a unique opportunity to enjoy quality, award-winning bluegrass talents in one of the most intimate venues in the area. Admission will cost $15.

FAMILY COUNSELING PANEL DISCUSSION

10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 1206 N. Park Rd. Pastor Elder Lloyd McDonald Jr. will host a family counseling panel discussion at the Trinkle Center on Plant City’s Hillsborough Community College campus, encouraging families and community members to attend this free counseling program. The event will feature guest speakers Chaplain Joseph P. Chacko, Dr. Alonzo and Sandra Gay, Paul Lawson and Colleen Martin, touching on topics such as PTSD and crisis intervention, marriage and family counseling and grief, loss and crisis intervention. Bring your questions and panelist will give their advice, suggestions, and recommendations on unique, controversial, issues that affect the community’s children and families. In addition to the event being free to attend, it will also be broadcast on YouTube.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22

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 benefis 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.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24

LAST FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN

5 to 9 p.m. at 110 N. Collins St. The Last Friday in Downtown Food Truck Rally is held with a new theme each month. There will be live music, an expanded exhibitor market, a bounce house, a scavenger hunt, food trucks and more. The event is family and pet friendly and all are recommended to bring chairs and blankets. February’s theme is Pokemon!

SATURDAY, MARCH 4

BLUEGRASS JAM!

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

OPEN MIC NIGHT

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

I LOVE PLANT CITY

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

FORECAST

THURSDAY, FEB 16

High: 77

60

of rain: 8% FRIDAY, FEB 17

78

53

of rain: 12% SATURDAY, FEB 18

64

55

MOON PHASES

RAINFALL

72

52

STRAWBERRY

ONLINE

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Judy Wise caught this moment where an egret was strolling on top of a hedge and looking for food in Walden Lake.

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