2.18.21 PLCO by Plant City Observer

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VOLUME 6, NO. 133

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FREE • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

. YO UR NEWS PAP ER . MCINTOSH PARK DUE UP FOR UPGRADES BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

McIntosh Park is officially getting two miles of trails as well as a wildlife viewing observation tower.

McIntosh Park is one step closer toward becoming a major destination in Plant City. The park, which lies on 363 acres at 775 East Knights Griffin Road, has long been a passive recreational park. The goal is to transform it into a facility that both highlights the beauty of nature and offers unique experiences for those who attend. Approximately 120 acres of the park have been used as stormwater treatment from the City of Plant City’s canal system via an agreement with SWFWMD.

It opened to the public in 2015 and had rudimentary trails cut into the grass at the site. Over the past month, massive changes have furthered the immense upgrade to the land. The current construction all lies under Phase 1 of the project. Trail paths have been cleared at the site and a surface material will be applied to make it more convenient to walkers. The city is building two miles of trails as well as an observation tower at the property.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

SANDEE SYTSMA NAMED CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Justin Kline

Sytsma has long played a foundational role in the community. Whether she’s serving with the Florida Strawberry Festival or giving back with her church, Sytsma has been “the embodiment of an outstanding citizen.” BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Every year, the community comes together to honor one resident who has gone above and beyond to be considered the annual Citizen of the Year. This is the 62nd annual ceremony and Sandee Sytsma was shocked when she realized she received the high honor on Wednesday. Her family hid behind the stage to surprise her on her big day and the joyous announcement was cheered on by a large crowd of wellwishers.

The award was created decades ago to highlight civic-minded Plant Cityarea residents who have dedicated their lives toward giving back to their community. They must have a strong character, a humble spirit and carry the virtues of Plant City in their bones. Sytsma received her recognition from last year’s recipient, Jim Scott. Scott didn’t have to try very hard to unearth a plethora of reasons Sytsma was the perfect fit to receive this year’s coveted award.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS

File photo

Parkesdale Farms/Instagram

The Justin Florida Kline Strawberry Festival parades are merging in 2021. Parkesdale is one of two new shortcake vendors at the Florida Strawberry Festival.

Grand Parade, Strawberry Youth Parade merging for 2021 The 2021 Florida Strawberry Festival Grand Parade is getting even bigger now that the Strawberry Youth Parade is merging with it. The festival announced the merger last week and added that it will begin at 1 p.m. March 8. The route will take the parade past the festival grounds around 2 p.m. “The top priority for the Strawberry Youth Parade is to call attention to the youngsters in our community,” Florida Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis said in a press release. “Pat Pogue has devoted her life to supporting the youth in our area and her contributions to the Strawberry Youth Parade have not gone unnoticed. On behalf of the festival Board of Directors and staff, we would like to thank her for her many years of service to this time-honored event.”

Florida Strawberry Festival adds shortcake vendors The Florida Strawberry Festival announced two new strawberry shortcake vendors will be on the grounds for this year’s event. Parkesdale Express and Berry Amaz’n,

LLC, will replace St. Clement Catholic Church Make-Your-Own Strawberry Shortcake and East Hillsborough Historical Society Shortcake after both vendors opted out of this year’s festival. “We are honored to have Parkesdale Express and Berry Amaz’n serving shortcake to our guests at the upcoming festival,” Florida Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis said in a press release. “Both businesses have a well-known history of providing some of the most delicious shortcake and strawberry desserts that are sure to please.” Parkesdale Express will be easy for returning attendees to find: it will be set up in the Parke Exhibit Building right next to the Parkesdale Farms and Parkesdale Greenhouse booths. Though Parkesdale is no stranger to the festival or to selling its own strawberry shortcakes, this is the first time the market will make and sell its shortcakes at the festival. “We are very excited to offer our worldfamous strawberry shortcake for the first time at the festival,” Parkesdale Farms Director of Finance and Business Development Kristen Hitchcock said in a press release. “The strawberries will be freshly picked and sliced each morning from the farm, and the cake will be the same yummy goodness you get at the Parkesdale Market every year.” Berry Amaz’n, LLC will set up northeast of the Parke Exhibit Building near the Pioneer Village. This booth is run by Cindy Griffin, a 29-year veteran of the festival

Courtesy of the Optimist Club of Plant City

Marley Mueller and Emma Stephens placed first and second, respectively, in this year’s Oratorical Contest.

who also owns and operates Mavric’s Chocolate Barn and the Chocolate Strawberry Express on the grounds. Griffin also provides the strawberries for both of the festival’s strawberry stemming contests. Berry Amaz’n, LLC will serve traditional strawberry shortcakes and a new creation called the Strawberry Brownie Delight. “The Florida Strawberry Festival is proud to continue the tradition of having the best shortcake available,” Griffin said in a press release. “It’s ‘All Aboard’ for the 2021 Festival!” The 2021 festival begins March 4 and runs through March 14. Visit flstrawberryfestival.cm for more information.

Optimist oratorical contest winners The Plant City Optimist Club announced the results of its latest annual Oratorical Contest, held Monday at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center. Two local students, Marley Mueller and Emma Stephens, competed in front of nearly 30 audience members. Their task was to present an oration of four to five minutes on the topic of this year’s theme, “Healing the World with Optimism.” The contest was judged by members of the Plant City Toastmasters Club. Mueller placed first in the contest and Stephens was named runner-up. They will now advance from the Club level of

competition to the North Florida District’s Southwest Regional Contest for the Tampa Bay area, which will be held April 17. “We are proud of these young people who are improving their public speaking skills which will benefit them in college and beyond,” Optimist Club President Jeff Ogden said in a press release. Winners at the regional level will advance to the North Florida District Finals in Jacksonville on April 24 and compete there for scholarships of $2,500 for first place, $1,500 for second place and $1,000 for third place. Nine Plant City-area students have won the district championship since 2001 and most recently in 2017. The district champion will be able to compete in the sixth annual World Championships in St. Louis, MO from July 21-23. A Plant City-area student competed in each of the first two World Championships.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

PIONEERS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT NOW ON DISPLAY AT PCPD

The public is invited to visit a historic display at PCPD that highlights the first five African-American officers that served the Plant City Police Department from 1959-1967.

Courtesy photos

Left to right: Carlton Cooper, Edwin Lee Candis, Henry Perry, King Solomon Gant and Roosevelt “Bobby” Miller. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Plant City Police Department is taking a moment to reflect on the pioneers that bravely took the first steps to become the first African-American officers within the department. A section of the lobby has been transformed into a historical display filled with photos, memorabilia and information of the first black officers to don the PCPD badge. The display will be up for several weeks and PCPD is inviting the public to take a moment and swing by to check out the history compiled. The public is invited out to the department, 1 Police Center Drive, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. “The legacy these officers left behind for this agency is huge,” Plant City Police Chief Jim Bradford said. When Bradford stepped into the role as Chief of Police three months ago, he immediately dove into the history of the department. He wanted to create something to honor the first AfricanAmericans to join PCPD and asked a team of his staff to conduct research to create a unique display. Their findings are called Pioneers in Law Enforcement and feature Edwin Lee Candis, King Solomon Gant, Roosevelt “Bobby” Miller, Henry Perry and Carlton Cooper. They were hired in the early 1960s and their photos, as well as bios for each of the men, are a part of the display. Plant City Corporal Stevie Carmack was one of the officers who assisted in researching and building the display for PCPD. He reflected on the importance of preserving that history and shared in the triumphs as well as the trials the men faced while wearing the badge. They weren’t allowed to arrest white citizens. They weren’t given patrol cars and had to walk the areas of town where predominately African-Americans lived. Their friends and neighbors were as shocked to see them in uniform as the white residents were. Some offered their support. Many didn’t. If trouble arrived, the black officers had to think quickly and overcome hurdles their white counterparts did not. “They were not given radios,” Plant City Corporal Stevie Carmack said. “They were given a handful of dimes. So if they had any issues or emergencies, they had to call for assistance, assistance from other officers to come to their aid.” But they never gave up, and through their hard work they

were able to pave the way for future officers like Carmack, who has been with PCPD since 2008, to join the force. Edwin Lee Candis was the first to join the department. In 1959, Candis walked into PCPD and said, “I would like to help to see a clean, good community.” He was 33 years old. Candis had served as a shore patrol man in the United States Navy in World War II and worked in construction after the war. During his time with PCPD he received the 1976 Rotary Club Officer of the Year award and the PCPD Officer of the Year award in 1979. He served 24 years, was promoted to Sergeant in 1971 and retired in 1986. He died on Sept. 17, 2005 at age 79. Henry Perry joined the department on Oct. 16, 1961 to work with Candis. They worked the 4 p.m. to midnight shift and patrolled Lincoln Park on the east side and Madison Park on the west side. Perry transferred to City Hall in 1965 after suffering a heart attack. He died in March 1984. Carlton Cooper was 25 years old when he replaced Perry in 1965. He attended Florida A&M University and played halfback on the football team. The Tampa Tribune cited him frequently in articles for his arrest of violent criminals. He was part of a 1969 walkout that resulted in better working conditions for the officers. He received the 1990 East Hillsborough Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award, the 1990 service award from the NAACP and was the recipient of many citizen commendations. He was promoted to Sergeant on Sept. 12, 2980 and retired in March 1996. King Solomon Gant joined PCPD in Jan. 1967 at the age of 25. He was a Marshall High School graduate and worked in agriculture before joining the department. Gant became one of the first motorcycle officers and was known for being a remarkable role model for the community. He left PCPD to pursue a long career with Tampa Electric Company, where he retired in 1993. Roosevelt “Bobby” Miller was 34 years old when he joined PCPD in Feb. 1967. He was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. When hired, he didn’t carry a gun but patrolled with a stick and a whistle. He was a karate expert and was known for his compassionate nature. He didn’t believe every case ended in an arrest and was a mentor to many in his community, including teens who had been arrested. Miller became the first Plant City crime scene detective in an era where the science of crime

scene investigation was in its infancy. In 1977 he trained for a year and a half at the Florida Institute of Law Enforcement at St. Pete Junior College. He retired in 1998 and passed away in 2015. Barbara Jean Perry-Dexter, daughter of Henry Perry, was the first family member of a featured officer to visit the display. She said her father was a man of few words, but remembers from her youth when he’d share a few stories of his time with PCPD. He was one of 10 children and no one expected him to decide to work as a police officer. She remembers the day he made the announcement he would join the force. “I thought to myself, ‘Really daddy? A policeman?’ I was surprised, but he seemed very proud about it, so I was proud too,” she said. “It kind of made me wonder what it would be like to be a PK — a police kid — especially because at the time I only really knew of one other person on the police force. I was proud of him, but we were, well, we were wondering how that was going to work.” She remembers her dad patrolling the night clubs and hangout spots around the community and said that while he always loved his job, there were moments that “weren’t so nice.” She said he never said names or went into detail, but he’d simply admit he went to a call that was hard to do. People may have poked at him for being a police officer, but Perry never let it get to him. He taught her and her siblings that the only things that mattered in life were your character and the way you carried yourself. He would tell them to be honest, reliable and trustworthy and would always say that if everyone lived that way, “what a wonderful world this would be.” Seeing Perry honored alongside the other trailblazers was a sight Perry-Dexter won’t soon forget. “I think it’s the most awesome thing I have seen,” Perry-Dexter said. “That’s the most I have ever seen of the black, African-American policemen at the time… it shows them and it makes them a real memory, a memory for everyone. I’ve always considered my dad to be a memory in someone else’s mind, but just of those who were alive when my father was here. I have great-great grandchildren now and we talk about it, but they only have my stories and my church circle’s stories. We don’t have a lot of photos of him in a uniform and I’ve always worried that he would just be forgotten when we are gone. But this, this is something that I think will inspire people. It will show

people that there were great men that paved the way and they can be great men too.” Carmack echoed her statement, saying this history needs to be told and we, as a community, need to understand that it’s important. There is still much room for growth with PCPD. Bradford said PCPD currently has only five black officers in the department. He said they will soon launch a diversity recruitment campaign to get applicants from a variety of different backgrounds to apply to work for PCPD.

Photos by Breanne Williams

Tuesday’s ceremony unveiled the exhibit, which was researched, curated and assembled by PCPD officers. The exhibit is now open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at PCPD’s headquarters, 1 Police Center Drive.

COPS CORNER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

PLANT CITY

Observer

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigated cut tires, burglarized vehicles, a stolen mailbox, a stolen Amazon

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package and more.

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editor / Sports Editor / Justin Kline JKline@PlantCityObserver.com

FEBRUARY 6

FEBRUARY 8

FEBRUARY 9

FEBRUARY 10

Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver.com

CLEANED OUT

TAG TROUBLE

IT’S LIT

HIS AND HERS

Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez

1810 block of East Park Road Vehicle burglary: Two vehicles were burglarized in the same area. One complainant reported the passenger window of her Jeep was broken out and unknown suspect(s) stole her tan Michael Kors purse from within. The second complainant stated unknown suspect(s) broke into his Ford SUV and stole his radio, a Smith and Wesson SW40V .40-caliber handgun, a blue HP laptop computer, an iPad Pro, a blue/gray leather wallet and several personal/business checks.

1800 block of Jim Johnson Road Theft: This complainant stated someone stole the tag decal from her Dodge van sometime between December 2020 and January 2021.

2700 block of Wilder Meadows Lane Burglary: This complainant stated someone entered a home under construction and stole 24 LED can light fixtures.

400 block of West Ball Street Vehicle burglary: This complainant stated someone entered his vehicle overnight and stole his wallet as well as his wife’s wallet from the glove compartment.

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2900 block of Forest Hammock Drive Fraud: This complainant stated he received a call from someone claiming to be a TECO representative, who said he had an outstanding balance of $998.97 and that his electricity would be shut off without immediate payment. The complainant paid up and later realized he was scammed.

3600 block of Harvest Orchard Drive Fraud: This complainant stated someone used his Bite Squad account to order food from Wing Stop in Lakeland and have it delivered.

Multiple locations Vehicle burglary, vehicle theft: Complainants reported five vehicles in the Kentwood Park complex at Maki Road and three vehicles in the Alexander Woods Townhomes complex at Alexander Woods Drive were burglarized or trespassed into. One complainant in Kentwood Park reported his gray 2014 Ford F-150 was stolen.

FEBRUARY 7 GETTING TIRE-D OF THIS 500 block of East Tomlin Street Criminal mischief: This complainant stated someone cut her vehicle’s tires.

CHUMP CHANGE 2000 block of North Frontage Road Fraud: This complainant stated someone called on Jan. 20 to buy a high-performance engine from Stingray Chevrolet, which was valued at $11,266. The caller paid on Feb. 1 with two cashier’s checks of $5,633.45. Both checks came back as altered/fictitious.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

OBSERVATION TOWER AND TRAILS COMING TO LIFE AT MCINTOSH PARK

Two miles of trails and a wildlife viewing observation tower are currently under construction at McIntosh Park, 775 East Knights Griffin Road. FROM PAGE 1 BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The wildlife observation tower itself will look out over the scenic nature that encompasses the park. In order to be ADA compliant, there will be a video viewing interface at the bottom of the tower that will allow those at its base to see the view from the top of the facility. The trails and observation tower are planned to be completed and reopened to the public at the end of April. City Manager Bill McDaniel has long said he hopes McIntosh Park will become “one of the best nature preserves in the state” and serve as an amenity to draw visitors from all over the country to Plant City. One of the big changes to the site is the addition of parking improvements that make the site much more accessible to the community. The trails and tower will be easily navigated and will weave throughout a portion of the park. However, the approximately 120 acres

of McIntosh Park used for water management will get some upgrades of its own. The city wants McIntosh to become a method of developing an integrated water management solution for the community. It essentially will act as stormwater treatment, which will balance the water supply via a natural habitat preserve. The city aims to expand the wetlands on the property and improve the hydrology of the area so “the stormwater that is routed offline in the southeastern corner will be treated and reduce 3,000 pounds of nitrogen and 1,500 pounds of phosphorus from the Hillsborough River,” according to the city. If push comes to shove, Plant City will then be able to hydrate the wetlands during periods of drought via reclaimed water. McDaniel called it a “tremendously impactful infrastructure project combined with a beautiful wildlife and wetlands project” and said that it truly will address multiple needs in the community when completed.

It’s a plan that requires three phases to bring everything to fruition. City leaders have met with politicians and public officials to discuss the park and share its positive impact on the environment and the community at large. When last year’s fiscal end came to a close, many city commissioners including Mayor Rick Lott mentioned McIntosh as one of the projects they were most excited to see come to life.

SANDEE SYTSMA WINS 2021 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD 6

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Sytsma, who may be best known for her work with the Florida Strawberry Festival, has spent her life giving back to her home community and was recognized for her decades of hard work Wednesday afternoon at the annual Outstanding Citizen of the Year luncheon. Photos by Justin Kline

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

“Our recipient is the embodiment of an ‘outstanding citizen,’” Scott said. “Her contributions to Plant City are significant both in ways that can be seen outwardly by the community and what they do privately behind the scenes.” Scott went on to list a variety of causes Sytsma has supported via committees including Relay for Life, Diamonds & Denim, Veterans Memorial Park and the Plant City Mural. Sytsma has been recognized as the Good Egg by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, serves with her congregation at GracePoint Church, was the first woman to serve as chair of the Florida Strawberry Festival and has represented the festival and the community in countless talk shows and publications over the years. Sytsma is the daughter of Roy and Helen Parke, legends in the com-

munity for both their strawberry farm and their civic mindset. Their dedication toward making Plant City a wonderful place to live was passed on to her and she has spent her entire life pouring back into this community. She got involved as an associate director and then later a director of the Florida Strawberry Festival and has served on a variety of committees the festival organizes. She also volunteered as the Strawberry Court coordinator for 13 years before stepping down to be vice president of the festival board. She served as chair in 2018. “Her family attests to the fact that she never slows down,” Scott said. “She fills her days, constantly looking for ways to help people, and I’m told that she enjoys making soup and chicken salad. And whenever she hears someone’s going through a tough time, the food just tends to magically appear at their front door.” Sytsma appeared to be shocked and blown away by the fact that

the community considered her to be worthy of the award. Scott summed up her list of accomplishments with a saying anyone who knows Sytsma will have heard her say a thousand times. “She follows her vision of doing what you’re passionate about,” Scott said. “She said, ‘If your heart is right and your intentions are pure, that will shine through.’” After thunderous applause, Sytsma humbly accepted the award and kept her speech rather short. She thanked the community as a whole and told them she greatly appreciated the gesture. She then said that her husband, Hank, is her rock and encourager. Her family looked on with pride and joy as she thanked the room once again for the honor. “You have got to be kidding me,” Sytsma said in surprise. “Oh my gosh... this is too much. It’s an honor. I’m humbled. I’m beyond shocked. I’m thankful, I’m grateful for our community and the opportunity to serve our community.”

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

BLACK HERITAGE GALA FEATURES MOVING SPEECH BY TITUS O’NEIL This year’s theme was “Remembering the Past, Shaping the Future.” BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The 18th annual Black Heritage Banquet/Gala showed attendees how to remember the past while continuing to aim to shape the future. WWE Superstar “Titus O’Neil,” aka Thaddeus Bullard, was the guest speaker Friday evening and shared his life story with the audience. He talked about how he was told at a young age that he would either end up dead or in jail and the effect that had on his self-worth. He reminisced on how it took one person to tell him they loved and believed in him, then choosing to prove that time and again, to help him slowly realize he was a person who could do anything he put his mind to. He shared memories of his accomplishments, of the lessons he’s learned along the way and then encouraged those in attendance to look around at the people in their life. If they see someone in need of support, they should step up and be the person that believes in them. Following O’Neil’s speech, awards were given out by Plant City Black Heritage Celebration, Inc. to some leaders in the community. O’Neil received an Award of Appreciation. Pastor Shea Pennington received the Community Service Award. The Cornerstone Award went to Plant City United Pentecostal Church. The Humanitarian Award was presented to Commissioner Michael Sparkman. The Lifetime Achieve-

ment Award went to the Plant City African-American Law Enforcement Officers Past and Present and was accepted by Plant City Police Department. Clara Perry received the Heritage Award. The title sponsor was Stingray Chevrolet. The City of Plant City was also on site and received a plaque for its sponsorship, as was South Florida Baptist Hospital and the Florida Strawberry Festival. The Hillsborough Community College Plant City Campus was also honored with a plaque that evening. The President’s Award went to Tanger Castillo. Steve Hurley, of Stingray Chevrolet, and O’Neil also received Global Philanthropist Awards.

Photos by Breanne Williams

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

WHAT’S NEW AT BRUTON

CUTEST CRITTER

Bruton Memorial Library has evolved over the past year to become a safe and thriving hub for the community.

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.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

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Bruton Memorial Library has entered a new chapter. The building itself has a new look and the staff and focus of the organization reflects its evolved mindset. When Paul Shaver took the reins as director of Bruton last fall, one of his many goals was to increase tech at the facility. Little did he know how crucial that decision would be come spring when the COVID-19 pandemic put the entire world on hold. Thankfully, the library itself was only closed for operations for a short time. Soon it offered curbside pickup. Then the doors were open to the public, though with new regulations in place to keep patrons safe. Staff members felt the biggest shift in the way they handled scheduled programming. Meeting in large groups was no longer on the table, so the team got creative to find ways to provide their unique services to the masses while keeping everyone safe. The answer led to a new wave of programming — one that staff believes is here is stay. “It certainly worked out for us to get the team at the time that we did,” Shaver said. “We were faced with the question, ‘How can we use what we have to get even more attendance than ever before?’ Then we had the complete shutdown, which led BAILEY AND CODY proudly wear their Buccaneer jerseys. They cheered alongside their dogparents David & Stephanie Hrenchir of Plant City during the Super Bowl 55 in Tampa. GO BUCS! to conversations with our staff of what we should do going forward. Now we are doing hybrid programs. So, for example, if someone has a projector we can do a story time from here and stream it to the facility to be broadcast on the projector. Now we can do story time at community centers or daycares. We provide a projector as well if they don’t have one. It’s led to us being able to access more people than ever.” Part of the change has come with the addition of virtual programming. Partnerships with Moffitt Cancer Center have evolved to virtual health seminars. Kelly Libengood, adult services associate, does kits and tutorials including Big Hands Little Hands, EsSewntials, and HandCrafts. There are virtual book clubs, tutorials on face painting and a virtual Master Gardener series. There is a partnership with the Plant City Family YMCA to make the book club a hybrid. Those who want to come in person and social distance can, and those who want to stream the book club on social media have that option as well. Amanda Preece, youth services associate, does virtual story times and builds kits virtually with children and their parents. Kids can pick up take home activity kits called Boredom Busters each week that are compiled around a unique theme. The children’s programs in particular would routinely pack out the event room, so Preece has had to find ways to bring that engagement and educational experience into local children’s homes. She’s also done story time in person at schools and daycares. The library operates at 25 percent capacity and has a maximum occupancy sensor at the door to help easily and quickly notify staff when the room is filling. When Halloween rolled around, Bruton took the festivities outside with socially distanced kiosks and activities around the library. At Christmas, Santa and Mrs. Claus were on a patio and kids got to phone in to talk to the Clauses. It was a massive hit and families have asked for it to continue for years to come. Using CARES ACT funding, the city was also able to deliver some major upgrades to the building. New floors, better electric plug ins, laptop kiosk cubicles and several

other major changes make the library feel like a new facility. Shaver said there are still many more changes to come and he hopes that by the time they’re done, Bruton will be perfectly poised to answer the call of the changing community. On top of the new additions to the facility, the library also has new inventory. There have been many new books added to the shelves as old materials were replaced and a partnership with the county provided 300 Spanish-language materials. It fills a hole Shaver identified immediately upon becoming director and he said he’s looking forward to continuing to improve the foreign-language offerings at Bruton. “This library reflects the city, it reflects this community,” Shaver said. “Here we really do get the full range of patrons. Some want to come and have access to our tech, some want to use our study rooms, some want foreign language materials, others want audio books, families come and check out books and then pick up a DVD to take home. It’s our job to make sure that we have inventory that reflects the people we serve.” And the pandemic has changed the culture of the community. Patrons are interacting with the library in ways they never had before. There’s been an influx in demand for books and each individual patron is checking out far more items per person than before. The cap is 35 items per person and it’s not uncommon for patrons to hit the limit, especially with no more late fees. The HAAL Pass system also allows every student enrolled in the county to check items out. The kits that are available for families to pick up to do activities with their children fly off the shelves every week. People are taking advantage of the fact that you can get e-books, digital newspapers/magazines, stream audiobooks for free, check out and listen to digital CDs and stream movies all with your library card without ever having to set foot inside the library. Hillsborough County’s library system even has a system in place where you can have a book mailed to your house. It’s been a godsend for those who don’t yet feel safe going out in public in the middle of a pandemic. The demand for outdoor events has increased as well. In response, Bruton has many upcoming outdoor events in the works including movie nights on the lawn where the community can social distance on the lot behind the library and watch a film on a large inflatable screen. A bookmobile is also on the horizon that will travel to local communities. The city will soon install a kiosk at the library so you can pay your bills with the touch of a button. This will help make sure the library is a hub for the community to go to and meet multiple needs at once. If you would like to get a library card, all you need is to bring some identification with your address to prove you live in Hillsborough County. That can be a driver’s license or even a passport. To keep up to date on all of the offerings at Bruton, follow them @BrutonMemorialLibrary on Facebook and Instagram or call 813-757-9215.

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DREAMS DO COME TRUE IN NEW ORLEANS

STAFF WRITER

Relentless rain didn’t stop hundreds of runners from participating in the annual Strawberry Distance Challenge last weekend. The event featured a 10K, 5K and a walking portion and drew massive crowds to the streets of Walden Lake early Saturday morning. Less than five minutes after the runners began their journey, the skies opened up and rain began to douse the route. However, the runners didn’t let a little bad weather keep them down.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

riverboat was on the stage for attendees to take their own candid shots in front of. The event is always open to any dad, grandfather, uncle, guardian or father figure who wants to come with their daughter, granddaughter, nieces, etc. age 3 and up. The children who attend are given a flower and a keepsake photo. Masks were handed out at the door for those who had not brought their own.

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Rain poured down on the runners in Walden Lake Saturday morning.

BREANNE WILLIAMS

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

STRAWBERRY DISTANCE CHALLENGE FEATURES WET START

Dads and daughters danced the night away in a New Orleansthemed extravaganza last weekend. Blue skies and sunshine were guaranteed as attendees ate in front of a riverboat, chatted with princesses and partied with their father figures.

Dads and their daughters boogied on the bayou last weekend during a Princess and the Frog-themed party at the Trinkle Center. The 12th annual Dad & Daughter Date Night is hosted by Parks and Recreation and featured dancing, dinner, a princess meet and greet, crafts and more. The couples paid $35, dressed up in their finest party attire and headed to the Trinkle Center Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Because of COVID-19, Parks & Rec split up the event into a two-day affair. Tables were social distanced along each side of the hall and a dance floor filled the center of the room. Princess Tiana and Princess Aurora were on site for a socially distanced photo op and a

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In order to maintain an effort of social distancing, the runners were asked to not gather at the finish line. Once they completed the race, they were asked to return to their vehicles so that the area was not crowded with people. Some wore masks while they ran and others did not, but once the race was underway many paced themselves and pulled away from the groups. Several racers even brought their pups along with them for the journey. Completion times for the winners were posted online.

FEBRUARY 18, 2021

SPORTS

SEVEN YEARS, SEVEN RINGS

Strawberry Crest’s cheerleading team has won yet another state title, but this one came in a season unlike any other — and that’s not just because of COVID-19. JUSTIN KLINE

But the kicker is that surviving COVID to reach the top again is only part of what What do Ariana Grande, Tom Brady and made this season so special — and difficult Strawberry Crest’s cheerleading team have — for Crest. in common? “It’s a Cinderella story, but because our Seven rings. name is so big people don’t understand The Chargers came out of the 2020-21 how it’s an underdog story,” Savarino said. competitive season with their seventh The Chargers have carved out a repuconsecutive state championship, extend- tation as a force to be reckoned with in ing one of Florida high school sports’ most the state’s 2A Small Co-Ed division over impressive runs of success in a year where the years. This season started with the COVID-19 made it difficult for all kinds of team harboring the same expectations sports teams to keep all their players active as always, which were heading into UCA at the same time. Crest wasn’t immune national competition after winning the 2A from that at all. Small Co-Ed state title, but that abruptly “With COVID, every day was a brand changed in mid-October. new day and had its own obstacle,” assisCrest started the season with just one tant coach Loveny Rivas Savarino said. male competitor rostered, and his depar“We kept putting our best foot forward.” ture from the team in mid-October meant the Chargers had to move to a new division. You can’t compete in co-ed with a roster comprised entirely of girls, so the team moved to the 2A Small Varsity division at that point. And for a team with just two seniors on the roster — many underclassmen from the 201920 state and national championship team opted out of the season due to COVID concerns — it was especially tough to hear. “We already had a routine and we were working on it, so it was kind of drastic to get that news,” Savarino said. “When we did, we sat the girls down and told them what had happened. We didn’t really wallow in it for too long, I guess. We told them the information and that we had to make a change and put our best foot forward.” Coincidentally, the team’s motto for the season was “Keep pushing forward.” Switching divisions was a much bigger deal than it may seem from the REGISTRATION FOR RILEY outside. It meant the team had to comSTRONG GOLF TOURNEY OPEN pletely rework its choreography from the ground up. It took several weeks for Friends of the family of Jimmy Riley, a longtime the team to get comfortable with a new Plant City firefighter and paramedic battling routine adapted to meet the needs of a brain cancer, are banding together to host a completely different score sheet than golf tournament to raise money for the family. what it was used to. The Riley Strong Golf Tournament is sched“The stunting score card is very difuled for a 1 p.m. shotgun start on March 27 at ferent from Co-Ed,” Savarino said. Summerfield Crossings Golf Course, 13050 “We had to have longer stunt sequencSummerfield Blvd., Riverview. This all-ages es. Usually dancing in Co-Ed isn’t as four-man scramble tournament will also important… the thing in Co-Ed is you feature awards, on-course contests for hitting highlight the boys. shots closest to the pin or the line, team prizes, As if that wasn’t tough enough, then individual prize drawings, a silent auction, came COVID. Crest not only had to raffles, vendors and food trucks, kid-friendly teach itself the new routine made from activities and more. Raffle tickets cost $5 for scratch, but it also had to go to nearly two, $10 for five and $20 for a line of tickets every competition with an incomplete the length of a fire axe. Attendees are required roster due to quarantines. to maintain six feet of social distancing and “COVID made it hard for us to put wear a face mask. people on the floor because girls had The cost to play is $125 per individual or to quarantine,” Savarino said. “We

SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Quick Hits

$400 for a team of four. Sponsorship opportunities are also available in a variety of packages ranging from $100 to $1,500. The deadline to register is March 19. To get a registration form or more information, call Anthony Morejon at 813-956-8394 or Heather Cropper at 813-625-1507, or email rileystronggolftournament@gmail.com.

had to have a long list of alternates. The routine wasn’t crisp early on because we never had the same roster in each competition. Mostly the same choreography, but we did not get consistent with the roster until one week before regionals. We were able to keep that same roster through states and that was the first time we had any consistency. This year was more of just feeding the mentality of the kids and keeping them mentally healthy, helping them understand what’s going on. Like it’s not that we’re struggling, it’s just that we had so many substitutions… you would have a full lineup but by 2 p.m. there would be COVID cases in the school, and you’re missing a few cheerleaders. It was a constant grind.” Savarino said the majority of the season was spent “getting comfortable with what we were doing” against the odds, and some good performances throughout the season showed the team there was still reason to be hopeful for that seventh ring. And the girls quickly realized they were capable of weathering such a storm. “The first two times (someone had to quarantine) were a little stressful, but after a while we got used to having to make do with what we had knowing anything could change at any moment,” senior Samya Paris said. “Being able to adapt quickly was something we all had to learn how to do. The second time somebody got quarantined — of course, it was a big thing every time — but by then we knew it could happen to anybody at any point, so everybody got ready to go into any position.” But when the time to compete at regionals finally came, Crest was ready to go. The Chargers capitalized on a second-place finish at regionals and won the 2A Small state championship on Jan. 23. “These girls were just ready that day,” Savarino said. “We did have a fall at states, but so did everyone else. Everyone had an error. Everyone fell once. Chiles didn’t fall but had two bobbles, and two bobbles equals one fall. I’m very proud of the girls. The routine they put on the floor wasn’t watered down because of COVID. We put a great, difficult routine on the floor despite the odds.” For veteran Chargers like Paris, who has been with the team for three seasons, it was refreshing to prove they could still be successful even in a new division outside of their comfort zone. “It felt more like we were making our own legacy instead of upholding one that was already there,” Paris said. “We had been winning for so long in Co-Ed. Switching to all girls, now we’re the first one in all girls — so let’s make our own legacy and get our own win.” In a normal year, the Chargers would already have competed at the UCA national

Photos: Strawberry Crest Athletics/Twitter

championships at the ESPN Wide World of Sports. That tournament, originally scheduled for Feb. 3-5, was moved to April and Crest fans can expect to see the team try to defend the national title it won last year. The Chargers are practicing three days a week to stay sharp without putting too much physical stress on their bodies in an unusually long season. And no matter what happens at the UCA event — though the team obviously wants to repeat what it did last year — getting through this season has taught these girls a valuable lesson. “I’ve learned to never stop trying because there’s always a solution to the problem,” Paris said. “We always found a solution this year and that’s definitely something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.”

THE TEAM Coaches: Vince Mele Loveny Savarino Anthony Medina

TOMLIN CELEBRATES COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP TEAMS

Cheerleaders: Karis Dell Sydnie Gutierrez Sarah Fabel Sienna Smith Heather Heinze Samya Paris

Tomlin Middle School can now claim county championships in boys volleyball and boys track and field. The school celebrated its two new champions last Thursday with a special luncheon at Fred’s Market in which all of the athletes got their own t-shirts to commemorate the wins. Photos: Strawberry Crest Athletics/Twitter

Kira McClard Dakota Grigson Julia Affronti Hanna Watson Rhylee Blackmon Savannah Jenkins Lauren Abbey Krystina Seufzer Hope Johnson Caleigh Ross Zoe Taylor

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

VARNUM STAYING TRUE TO DURANT ROOTS AS NEW HEAD COACH Clayton Varnum was named Mike Gottman’s successor as head coach of Durant’s football team last week. Photos courtesy of Claybo Varnum

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

There’s one particular Bible verse that’s really resonated with Durant football coach Clayton “Claybo” Varnum lately: 1 Timothy 4:12, which reads, “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” It’s exactly the kind of encouragement Varnum needs as he prepares for the biggest challenge of his coaching career. Less than a month after longtime head coach Mike Gottman took the same position at East Bay High School, Durant decided to promote from within and named Varnum the Cougars’ next man up at the helm. “The overwhelming support I’ve received, the amount of folks who have said such nice things and supported me and lifted me up, it’s been overwhelming,” Varnum said. Varnum has spent his entire coaching career with Durant, starting in 2011 as defensive line coach for the junior varsity team and working his way up to the varsity level over time. Though he has coached on both sides of the ball, Varnum is a defensive guy by nature and most recently served as co-defensive coordinator with Frank Lane. The new head coach knows he has big shoes to fill, though. It’s hard to find a program further removed from the phrase “coaching carousel” than Durant. “I think, for one, it’s daunting,” Varnum said. “It’s like stepping into the shoes of

Earl Garcia at Hillsborough. There’s a reason coach Gottman was here as long as he was. I’m excited to take what he built and take that to the next level.” Gottman spent 18 years in charge of the Durant football team and won more than 100 games with four district championships. The move to East Bay is actually a move back to familiar territory, as Gottman was a member of the Indians’ coaching staff from 1995 to 2002. He took the head job at Durant in 2003 and came back to his old stomping grounds to take over for Frank LaRosa, who stepped down from the head job after 10 seasons as the Indians’ head coach. Varnum has known Gottman for 14 years and called him a “great mentor” who taught him much about what it takes to be a successful head coach. Their relationship dates back to Varnum’s own playing days for the Cougars, which began in 2007. Varnum started assisting the coaching staff in the 2010-11 season, his senior year, and joined the staff on a full-time basis right after he graduated. “Durant didn’t have to take a chance on me and bring me back as a teacher, but they took that chance on me early on and Durant continues to pay it forward,” he said. “I give a lot to this school because I want to. I’ve given to it and it’s given to me. I want the experience I had to be times a thousand for anyone who comes through Durant High School. I want them to feel the pride I have for this place and see the high ceiling I think it has.”

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When he says things like “I bleed blue and gold,” it’s not just talk. Varnum is the real deal, a born-and-bred Cougar whose family has deep roots in the area around the school. He grew up going to Durant football games well before he put on the uniform himself. There’s no place he’d rather be. “I’m a local guy,” he said. “My mom grew up in Plant City, my dad grew up in Pinecrest and here I am in the middle of both, building what I think is the best school in our area.” The cultural evolution of the Durant program, as Varnum hopes to guide it, is to make the program into a point of pride for everyone involved in the same vein as “oldtime, rural football teams.” That means building a tight bond not only with the players, but also the community at large. “I want build a culture where you grow up in Durant’s district, you go to Durant, you play for Durant and you come back and watch Durant after you’re done,” Varnum said. Though his cultural philosophy has oldschool roots, Varnum’s game day plans are more modern. That particularly means taking an offense known over the years for its reliance on running the ball and getting much more comfortable with airing it out. “We’ve got to open it up more,” Varnum said. “We’ve got some good athletes here. I want to see us be more open offensively. I want to be in a spread system, get the ball to our athletes and rely on our big offensive line we have coming back… some people equate the spread with getting fancy and

throwing, but we’re gonna run when we need to run and throw when we need to throw.” It helps that Varnum already knows what kind of athletes he has to work with, and he hopes to “build enough trust with the guys we have now to where they stay on and see this thing through.” “It’s exciting to have a room full of guys that know me and that I trust, and that we can go forward already having a relationship… God has blessed me and put me in a great position,” he said.

Photos courtesy of Claybo Varnum

Clayton “Claybo” Varnum will lead Durant’s football team as head coach. Varnum is a DHS alum and a program veteran.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Diamonds and Denim committee and the Plant City Photo Archives. ary 17, 2021 at Haught Funeral Lynn was preceded in death Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Debbie Bader, 68, of Temple TerHOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM Plant City, FL 33563. race, born in Blytheville, Arkansas by her husband of 61 years, Dr. H.D. Brewer. She is survived by Online condolences may be on September 2, 1952, entered Henrietta Louise Dempsey Martin Alvarado left for the family at haught. Sanford, 99, of Dover, formerly of into eternal rest on February 11, children, Cindy Gutowski (Gregg), Rodney Brewer (Karen), Les Brew- Martin Alvarado, 58, of Dover, care. Turrell, Arkansas, passed away on 2021. er (Saira Khan) and Daniel Brewer born on November 22, 1962 in Expressions of condolence February 11, 2021. (Zach Jones); grandchildren, Derik Matamoros-Tamaulipas, Mexico, at HopewellFuneral.com. Expressions of condolence Gutowski, Scott Gutowski (Kelly), at HopewellFuneral.com. entered into eternal rest on Kent Gutowski, Ryan Brewer February 12, 2021. HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM (Deanna) and Nicholas Brewer; Expressions of condolence at HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM Oscar great-grandchildren, Madison, www.HopewellFuneral.com. Brooklyn and Tenley Brewer, AnHOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM Lumbreras Duque nabelle and Daniel Gutowski; and her sister Anne Dunn. Oscar Lumbreras Duque, 73, of Plant Patricia Kay A private in-person memorial City, passed away on February 15, HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM Clemons service will be held on Thursday, 2021. Services will be held privately. February 18 at 11:00 A.M. Due Online condolences may be left for Patricia Kay Clemons, 85, of Plant Edward William to COVID, extended family and the family at haught.care. City, born on July 31, 1935, entered Fontaine friends are invited to participate into eternal rest on February 11, via live-stream at https://youtube. Edward William Fontaine, 71, of 2021. com/user/1stUMCPlantCityFL In Expressions of condolence at Brandon, formerly of Pawtucket, lieu of flowers, memorial contribu- Rhode Island, born in Central Falls, HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM HopewellFuneral.com. tions may be made to Friends of Rhode Island on September 24, Virginia R. Recreation and Parks, P.O. Box 695, 1949, entered into eternal rest on Lynn H. Brewer Johnston Plant City, 33564-0695, for contin- February 14, 2021. HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM Expressions of condolence at Lynn H. Brewer, 90, of Plant City, ued upgrades and improvements Virginia R. Johnston, 93, of Plant City, HopewellFuneral.com. entered into eternal rest on Febru- of Dr Hal & Lynn Brewer Park or passed away on Sunday, February 14, Margie Forester the charity of your choice. ary 11, 2021. 2021. Virginia was born November we’re dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ RE P RO U D TO S E RV E our community and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. in unique Expressions of condolence at Born in Vicksburg, Mississippi 26, 1927 Monticello, Kentucky. Margie Forester, 87, of Lakeland, celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, HopewellFuneral.com. on December 8, 1930, she atFond >memories expressions born in Dunedin on February 18, > 100% Service Guarantee National Plan and Transferability Bereavement Travel Assistance Compassion Helpline® > of sympathy> The may be shared at www. 1933, entered into eternal rest on tended Ole Miss where she met her husband. Lynn was a wonWellsMemorial.com for the Johnston February 11, 2021. R HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM derful wife and mother, devoted family. Expressions of condolence at Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM “Grammy” to her grandchildren HopewellFuneral.com. Paulino Ruiz and great-grandchildren, beloved Richard M. Luke Hernandez friend, avid tennis player, accomplished seamstress, fearless snow Richard M. Luke, 63, of Dover, en- Paulino Ruiz Hernandez, 64, of DoWELLSMEMORIAL.COM HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM skier and great Southern cook. tered peacefully into eternal rest ver, passed away on February 13, She was a longtime member of on February 15, 2021. 2021. Services were held Febru- Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy First United Methodist Church of Expressions of condolence at 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Bonnie J. Johnson Plant City, where she participated HopewellFuneral.com. Bonnie J. Johnson, 72, of Valrico, in choir and bell choir, and a member of Plant City Junior Women’s born in Lima, Ohio on February Club, Women’s Club of Plant City, 23, 1948, went home to be with South Florida Baptist Hospital the Lord on February 11, 2021. Auxiliary, Arts Council of Plant Expressions of condolence City, Plant City Entertainment, at HopewellFuneral.com.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

YOUR CALENDAR

Cary Mac Fewox Jr. With our deepest sorrow, we announce that Cary Mac Fewox Jr., 57, our most beloved son, brother, family member and friend, passed away on January 9, 2021. A 1982 Plant City High School graduate, he later went on to trade school in Lakeland, Florida where he received a diploma in mechanical engineering and repairs. An avid outdoorsman, he loved to fish and hunt; a love he shared with his father Mac Sr. Those who knew Mac, even just a little, will remember his big heart, warm smile, and his ability to make you laugh. Mac will be missed every day by his father, Cary Mac Fewox Sr., his mother, Carole, his brothers Jimmy and Joshua, his biological mother, Joyce Wagoner, his loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and many great friends. A private service will be held at a later date.

Taking care of Morris Costa each otherRay is what

community

Morris Ray Costa, 85, of Plant City, passed away on Friday, February 12, 2021. Morris was born May 2, 1935 in Bath, Maryland. A memorial service we’rebe dedicated to helping families create a U D TO S E RVE our forcommunity Morris will held Thursday, Febunique and meaningful memorial that truly al, compassionate care since 1896. ruary 18, 2021 at 3:00 celebrates the life it p.m. represents. nity Memorial professionals, 100% Service Guarantee > National Planand Transferability Fond memories expressions ereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® of sympathy may be shared at www. WellsMemorial.com for the Costa R Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. family.

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BEST BET SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20 STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN 3 to 6:30 p.m. at 102 N. Palmer St. The Plant City Strawberry Classic Cruise-In is back this Saturday, rain or shine. Cars and trucks manufactured in or before 1996 can register for free starting at 3 p.m. Live music by DJ John Paul Gasca.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18 PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS 7:30 to 9 a.m. Join the Plant City Toastmasters for breakfast, laughs, and fun; there's no better way to start your Thursday mornings. Bring a chair and a mask. The Toastmasters also offer Zoom meetings for those who can’t make it in person. Visit the Facebook page, facebook.com/PlantCityToastmasters/, for meeting locations and information. 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 813-6264554.

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James M. McDowell, 74 of Lakeland, entered into rest on February 11, 2021. He was born on October 23, 1946 in we’re dedicated to helping families create a his U D TO SE RVE our community Buffalo, New York. He is survived by unique and meaningful memorial that truly l, compassionate care since 1896. celebrates the lifeand it represents. nity Memorial professionals, wife Mary McDowell many other 00% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability family members and friends. reavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® Fond memories and messages of R may be left at www.wellscondolences Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. memorial.com.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19 RETRO MOVIE NIGHT 7 to 8:30 p.m. Visit Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., for Retro Movie Night. Bring the family, grab a treat from downstairs, relax and watch a new movie selection each month. This month’s movie is the 1993 romantic comedy “Sleepless in Seattle,” starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. There will be a drawing for a “krazy kool” prize specially prepared by Tub Treats and the Kandy Shoppe.

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813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com 10/27/15 10:42 AM

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20 IMPROV NIGHT 7 to 8:30 p.m. Improv Night is back at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., for a night of interactive, side-splitting comedy featuring Swan City Improv. It’s a free, family-friendly event.

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

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23 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 24 FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY VETERANS 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served any time in the military, retired or non-retention, and would like to review your

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.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25 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. 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 813-6264554.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26 LAST FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN 5 to 9 p.m. Join Plant City Main Street downtown for a Pokémon-themed evening full of family fun. In addition to eight food trucks, vendors and all the Pokémon-themed goodies you can get at participating businesses (you’ve gotta catch ‘em all), Aspire Plant City is sponsoring a free screening of Pokémon: The First Movie in McCall Park. If you miss out on Friday, don’t worry: many of the vendors will still have their themed goods available (while supplies last) the following day, as Feb. 27 is the official Pokémon Day.

PLANT CITY CHURCH OF GOD STRAWBERRY CLASSIC 7 to 10 p.m. at Plant City Church of God, 2103 Mud Lake Road. Come out to this free event and view all the trucks, Jeeps and classic cars. Food trucks on-site include Smitty's Corn Dogs and Umami Smoke. Come and show off your truck, Jeep or classic car and compete for one of the following awards: Overall Truck, Overall Jeep, Overall Classic Car, Stereo, Engine Rev and Best of Event. T-shirts are available for pre-order when you register. Register today at plantcitycog. churchcenter.com/registrations/events/69332. RETRO MOVIE NIGHT 7 to 8:30 p.m. Visit Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., for Retro Movie Night. Bring the family, grab a treat from downstairs, relax and watch a new movie selection each month.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 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 February 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 Ken Miller at 863-409-7714 to reserve your spot and visit djkenmiller.com to look at sample playlists and get more information.

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

THURSDAY, FEB. 18 High: 87 Low: 69 Chance of rain: 23%

FRIDAY, FEB. 19 High: 75 Low: 47 Chance of rain: 79%

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Feb. 18

7:03a

6:22p

Friday, Feb. 19

7:02a

6:22p

Saturday, Feb. 20

7:01a

6:23p

Sunday, Feb. 21

7:00a

6:24p

Monday, Feb. 22

6:59a

6:24p

Tuesday, Feb. 23

6:58a

6:25p

Wednesday, Feb. 24

6:57a

6:26p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, FEB. 20 High: 66 Low: 46 Chance of rain: 6%

SUNDAY, FEB. 21 High: 73 Low: 55 Chance of rain: 5%

MONDAY, FEB. 22 Amanda Verner sent in this photo of her niece, Stella Crosby, from Stella’s first strawberry picking adventure. Stella went with her big sister Audrey Crosby.

ONLINE

High: 76 Low: 50 Chance of rain: 12%

Across 1 It’s happening now 6 Controversial reading 10 Circumstance partner 14 Brain center associated with speech 16 ‘60s pop singer Sands 17 Borders of old, e.g. 18 First name in jazz 19 Abbr. on an invoice 20 Tech boss 21 Relating to the arrangement of atoms in space 23 Mealtime alert 26 Magic competition? 27 Give rise to 28 Rap’s “Puffy” Combs 29 Head of Parliament?

30 ‘40s-’50s paranoia 32 Bud’s bud 33 Judge in stripes 36 Anago or unagi 37 “__ that been done?” 39 2019 Uber landmark, briefly 40 Brought under control 43 Soup sometimes served with banh mi 44 Eastern brew 45 Bass-baritone Simon 48 “Time to move on” 50 Co-star of Cox and Kudrow 52 “No worries” 53 Behave 54 Co-star of Ethan in

“Gattaca” 55 Without rocks 56 Mexican fare 60 “Never go to a doctor whose office plants have died” writer Bombeck 61 Latin American fare 62 Enervates 63 Certain farm, or one of its residents 64 Pesto ingredient Down 1 Arafat’s successor 2 Ads, e.g. 3 Pull from the ground, in Plymouth 4 Disgusted remark

5 Much of “Deck the Halls” 6 “The Python Years” diarist 7 Janis’ comics mate 8 Casual brand 9 Milky Way cousin 10 Crony of Captain Bildad, in “Moby-Dick” 11 Construction sight 12 Quick getaway for newlyweds 13 Hipster’s “Later” 15 Vote to support 22 “Between the World and Me” National Book Award winner Coates 24 Henry VIII’s sixth 25 Affirms 26 Author Zora __ Hurston 28 Director’s unit 31 Quartz watch innovator 33 Rainforest explorers’ aids 34 Transient things 35 Military training site 38 Red stingers 41 Bald babies? 42 Most of a tooth 46 Liszt’s “Paganini __” 47 Mogadishu native 49 Little bits 50 Needed a massage 51 Like “m” or “n,” phonetically 53 Org. co-founded by Helen Keller 57 Surfer’s setting 58 Alley-oop pass 59 Actress Gardner

Mar. 12 New

Mar. 17 First

Mar. 27 Full

Mar. 8 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

1.50 in.

3.09 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

FEB. AVERAGE:

04.23 in.

2.82 in.

STRAWBERRIES Shipping point: Central Florida $14-$20.90

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2021

CHEST PRESSURE

CAUTION NARROWED ARTERIES AHEAD

Chest pressure, a squeezing sensation or chest pain. These feelings may be angina, a symptom of heart disease. Your heart comes with a warning system called angina, which happens when part of the heart doesn’t get enough blood and oxygen. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), a type of heart disease that occurs when arteries that carry blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. Although angina often feels like a pinching sensation in the chest, it can also be accompanied by sluggishness, fatigue and chest tightness. If you experience any of these symptoms, the heart experts at BayCare’s South Florida Baptist Hospital can quickly get to the cause and treat it with a procedure that’s right for you. Diagnosing and treating CAD is just one area of our expertise in heart care. Using state-of-the-art technology, our compassionate and multidisciplinary team of experts provides a suite of other advanced heart care services. From treatment options for rhythm disorders like AFib and heart attacks, care for advanced heart failure through our Heart Function Clinic, to helping you recover with cardiac rehab, South Florida Baptist Hospital is here when you and your heart need us. And we have enhanced safety measures to help keep you protected, so you can feel secure getting the care you need. Learn more and get a cardiology referral: SouthFloridaBaptistHeart.org

OUR NETWORK BayCare Behavioral Health • BayCare HomeCare • BayCare Laboratories • BayCare Medical Group BayCare Outpatient Imaging • BayCare Surgery Centers • BayCare Urgent Care

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