2.24.22 PLCO by Plant City Observer

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VOLUME 6, NO. 184

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

JASON JONES TO BECOME NEW CITY COMMISSIONER LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR SEATED WITHOUT OPPOSITION

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Businessman Jason Jones is set to become the newest Plant City commissioner this summer. On Tuesday, Feb. 15, he threw his hat in the ring for the upcoming election and started filing his paperwork. This came after Mayor Rick Lott announced the day prior that he would not be seeking another term in office. “I’ve been asking to see what commissioners were going to retire and so I’ve been actively looking, Jones said.” I’ve also looked to see what a commissioner entails.

“When Rick Lott announced he was retiring on Monday, my family gave me the thumbs up and I prayed upon it a lot, and I feel like this is what God intended for me to do – to continue to grow as a leader and continue to give back to Plant City.” Candidates had a four-day window to submit paperwork, starting on Monday, Feb. 14 to Friday, Feb. 18. Jones was uncontested when no other candidates stepped forward before the deadline, securing him a seat as a commissioner.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

AAA Sponsors

Car Show

in Plant City

EVENT BROUGHT CAR ENTHUSIASTS OUT FOR VEHICLE DISPLAYS BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

On Saturday, Feb. 19, Plant City’s Historic Downtown was consumed with cars and trucks, both vintage and modern. It was a part of the AAA annual car show, which brought large crowds to gaze at the automobiles parked on the south depot parking lot across from the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum. AAA fl w in their event team from Detroit for the fi st time in two years, bringing additional fun for patrons that giveaways and raffles. The event was also an opportunity for car owners to trade or sell their vehicles. Down on Evers Street, a live band amplified d wntown as attendees examined one vehicle after the next. Kam Dempsey had on display two vintage cars that were actually passed down to him from his grandparents. One was a 1950 Oldsmobile and the other a 1935 Chevrolet Standard.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

NEWS BRIEFS

Photo courtesy of the Plant City Optimist Club

Plant City Optimist Club hosts oratorical contest First conducted by Optimist International in 1928, the organization’s oratorical contest is the longest running and secondmost popular Optimist International program, with over 2,000 clubs participating each year. Three local students participated in the annual Plant City Optimist Club Oratorical Contest on Monday, Feb. 21. Along this year’s theme of, “Staying Optimistic in Challenging Times,” the students presented their four to fi e minute orations in front of an audience that included family, friends, guests, club members and contest judges. The orations were then judged on several criteria including poise, content of speech, delivery and presentation and overall effectiveness. RESULTS: 1st Place: Ava Skolnick (Plant City High School) 2nd Place: Marley Mueller (Tomlin Middle School) 3rd Place: Kyleigh Elliot (Plant City High School) “It is difficult or these young people to stand before an audience and give their

speeches,” Optimist Club President Mike Williamson said in a press release. ” The competition helps them improve their public speaking skills which will benefit them in college and beyond” For their fi st and second place finish s at the Club level, Skolnick and Mueller will advance to the Zone 6 Competition against the top two finishe s from Lakeland and Winter Haven’s competitions on March 7. The top two from the Zone competition will then earn their spot in the North Florida District’s Southwest Regional Contest for the Tampa Bay Area on April 9. Both Zone and Regional competitions will be hosted by the Plant City Optimist Club at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Regional winners will then advance to the North Florida District Finals in Jacksonville on April 30 where a $2,500 college scholarship will be awarded to the District Champion, a $1,500 scholarship for second place and a $1,000 scholarship for third place. The higher scoring District Champion will be eligible to attend the 7th Annual World Championships in St. Louis, Mo. in July to represent the North Florida District. A Plant City Optimist Club representative has won the North Florida District finals and eceived the top scholarship nine times since 2001.

Photo courtesy of George Domedion

Local Plant City teen takes third place in Elks state hoop shoot competition After advancing through the local, district and state regional round, Plant City’s Marlee Kraus advanced to the Florida state finals or the Elks Lodge National Hoop Shoot competition. Krous’ journey began in Plant City in October before moving on to Lake Placid, Fla. for the district round. After winning yet again, she moved on to the state regional

round in Sanford and earned the top spot in her age group with 14 made free throws in 25 attempts, clicking her chance to compete at the state finals in Umatilla la t weekend. In a competition that began with thousands of participants in her age group, Kraus ultimately earned a third place finish at states.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

FUNDRAISER HELPS ACHIEVE SCHOOL TO PROSPER

ACHIEVE PLANT CITY CONTINUES TO PAY FOR SCHOOL MATERIALS WITH HELP OF COMMUNITY

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Ask Angelica Ibarra, and she’ll tell you that the Wine Tasting and Silent Auction fundraiser for Achieve Plant City was a success, collecting over $40,000, on Friday, Feb. 18. She’s the executive director of the school and received financial a sistance from those in attendance at the Trinkle Center of Hillsborough Community College Plant City campus. Every year it is held to help fund the supplies and other educational material so that students can properly learn in their classrooms. “The past 10 years have brought so many blessings for Achieve,” Ibarra said, addressing the audience. “There are so many helpers that have impacted and supported what we do with our children and families.” Last year, not only did the school celebrate it’s 10-year anniversary, but it relocated to the Wesley Centre – a part of the First United Methodist Church of Plant City. The four classrooms there are more spacious than its previous location. One room is divided into two areas for the youngest kids. One section is for 2-year-olds and the other is for 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds. The goal is to teach these children to become readers before starting grade school. Another room is used for after school programs for students from kindergarten to fifth-g ade. Then there is the technology room, which is equipped with electronics that may not be accessible at a student’s home. At different stations are computers helping to make lessons more understandable, as well as copiers and printers. The fourth classroom is used for literacy and parenting courses. There, staff provides lessons for parents who have difficu y reading. It also offers the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program. This helps to break down the language barriers that may prevent adults from properly communicating when out in public. Plus, it helps them communicate with their children who are already being taught English in their classrooms.

Also, it lessens the likelihood that their children will have translate to parents outside of home. Parents become students just like their children so both can learn along the way. Originally from Mexico, Ibarra and her family migrated to Texas in order to continue agricultural work and make ends meet. They moved to Plant City where she became a mother and decided she didn’t want to repeat the family cycle of farming. Her family put education second to farm work, said Ibarra. She got her GED, attended Hillsborough Community College, and ultimately received her bachelor’s degree in international studies at the University of South Florida. Ibarra landed a job working for a credit card company, with a good salary and benefi s. However, she felt she was taking advantage of migrants who came to America, like herself, and decided to quit her job. Ibarra decided that she would dedicate herself to empowering others and open a school. Without a steady income from her or her husband, it was a struggle to get a learning institution off the g ound. But after receiving grants and donations, she was able to establish Achieve and hire staff. On the evening of the fundraiser, the sizable crowd was a testament of how much recognition and support the school has received for a decade. Earlier this year, the Woman’s Club of Plant City also provided a donation to Achieve for students who cannot afford to enroll for classes.

That evening donors were able to take part in a silent auction and a raffle. Some walked away with a fourcourse dinner, a wine basket, and a Gucci handbag. Participants also had the opportunity to receive free wine tasting at the Roots Tap Room and Wine Bar, and cigars from the upcoming Bruton’s Cigar Shop. Sophia Hyde of the Plant City Rotary Club offered words of inspiration before introducing Ibarra to the stage. “It takes someone believing in you for you to believe in yourself many times,” Hyde said. “I watched it break the poverty cycle in families. When you become educated, you are empowered to get a job to change your life, to change your children’s lives, and dream bigger for them. It truly changes the family tree.” Ibarra explained the success stories of those impacted by Achieve. Some enrolled because their children were struggling in school, and they too received a decent education. Others learned how to speak English, and there are those who started the program at age 3 and eventually began to read earlier than public schools teach at that level. They were able to prosper, being gainfully employed or currently in college. With this latest fundraiser, more students can have that opportunity as well.

Photos courtesy of Deanna Hurley Photography

COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

PLANT CITY

This week on Cops Corner: Plant

Observer

City Police investigate missing wiring, troublesome nails and a previously stolen semi-trailer.

FEB. 11 THREE STRIKES S. County Line Rd. Traffic a est: Officers responded to a traffic ash and made contact with the driver. The driver was subsequently arrested for operating an unregistered vehicle, attaching tag not assigned and no valid driver’s license. He was then transported to Orient Road Jail.

FEB. 12 WIRE YOU DOING THIS? 3200 block of S. Frontage Rd. Business burglary: Officers met with the victim who advised them that someone had entered the company’s locked steel trailer and stolen 12 spools of wiring, adding up to a total value of $2,000.

istock

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com

FEB. 14

YOUR LOSS 2600 block of James L. Redman Pkwy. Felony petit theft: Officers responded to the business at the listed location and met with the Loss Prevention department who had the suspect in custody. The suspect was then arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail.

FEB. 13

NOT SO HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY 1800 block of W. Washington St. Vehicle burglary: Officers met with the victim who advised them that an unknown suspect had shattered the driver’s side window of their car before entering the vehicle and taking a wallet from inside. A HUGE HAUL

HIT STREAK 1500 block of Plantation Grove Ct. Vehicle burglary: Officers responded and met with several victims who alerted them that their vehicles had been burglarized in the parking lot.

1300 block of S. Frontage Rd. Stolen trailer: Officers met with the complainant who reported the theft of a 2017 Great Dane 53foot semi-trailer, which had been stolen on Jan. 29 and was just discovered.

TOOL TIME 1900 block of Wood Ct. Vehicle burglary: Officers met with the victim who alerted them that at some time between Feb. 8 and Feb. 14, an unknown suspect had shattered the windows to his semi-truck and removed tools.

FEB. 15 FALLING FLAT 4000 block of Airport Rd. Criminal mischief: Officers met with the complainant who advised them that somebody had been purposely leaving roof nails on the front entrance to the property, resulting in tire damage for an employee and customer.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

MEET INCOMING COMMISSIONER JASON JONES BUSINESSMAN TO TAKE NEW COMMISSION SEAT

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

When there are at least two individuals running for the office, the election runs until April 5 when the winner is announced. Commissioner Nathan Kilton who sought re-election, was also unopposed and will serve another term. Jones is the owner of the business Advantage Restoration and Contracting, which has served Plant City for 17 years. The company provides remodeling, reconstructing, and renovation of homes that have been damaged by fires, storms, water, and the buildup of mold. He established Advantage after he and his wife Casey, moved to town from Indiana.Its humble beginnings started in his garage until he was able to find adequate office space. “When we moved to Plant City, this community really gave me the support to start a business [and] gave me the idea,” Jones said. “It’s got a good network system to start a small business in this community.” He also recounted the time when he and Casey visited Plant City for the first time and went into the Whistle Stop Café. It was one of many locations in Historic Downtown where they were greeted with hospitality. Jones said that it made such an impression that it was one of the determining factors that led them to call Plant City home. Since then, the couple have had three children: Noah, Mia, and Layla. “I think the most important thing to me is that Plant City gave me a fun, safe place to raise my kids,” he said. “I am very proud of our law enforcement we have here in Plant City.”

Jones was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky. “I came from a good family,” Jones said. “My dad was a very hard worker and still is today. He worked in a factory. I got my work ethic from my father. My mother was a nurse and she worked for hospice. I got my compassion from my mother.” Jones recalled one instance when the neighborhood was covered with steep snow and his father still decided to go to work. Although he had to cover his coworkers’ shifts, he was still a diligent worker. While Jones said that he wasn’t much of an athlete, he was both a cross-country and track runner. He roots for Kentucky college football and basketball teams. Jones went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in administration and marketing at the University of Kentucky. He also served as a volunteer firefighter for five years, not only combating fires but assisting people in evacuating flood zones in Kentucky. Aside from operating Advantage, Jones has also remained active in the community. He is the chairman of High 5 Inc., a family-friendly recreational facility in Brandon. It offers an after-school program for kids and caters to those who have impairments. “There’s a gap for special needs learning in Hillsborough County, and they plug that gap,” Jones said. “It’s just amazing with what they do with these kids…constantly teaching them.” In addition, he has devoted his time to the local YMCA, serving on its board. And he has plans to bring back the annual Planes, Trains, and Automobiles event after being stalled by COVID-19. He has also held posts for the City of Plant City.

In 2005, he became an ambassador for the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. “As a chamber ambassador, we get out and work with the new businesses in town to welcome them, support them,” Jones said. “We also work with the chamber members to be their liaison between the chamber and the community.” He served as the chamber’s chairman of the board in 2018 and for the past two years he has helped implement policies as a member of the Plant City Planning Board. He said he is ready to make the transition from a planning board member to a city commissioner. He will officially start his new post in June. However, in the months leading up to June, he wants to engage with the community as often as possible. “Really my goal now is to get out in the community, and I want to talk to the citizens,” Jones said. “I want to open my ears. My energy will never slow down for this community.”

Photo courtesy of Jason Jones

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

MAKES ITS RETURN TO PLANT CITY

The Italian eatery is back in town with its delicious dishes

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Attendees could smell the aroma of fresh breadsticks and pasta once entering the returning Fazoli’s restaurant, on Monday Feb. 21. It was during the ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome back the Italian restaurant at its same Plant City location. Wayne Wright, the director of franchise operations for Fazoli’s, was one of many at the ceremony. “Plant City is a great community,” he said. “We had a lot of fans upset that we left.” The former one had closed down when its owners decided to relocate. Now the eatery is back under new management and officially opened s doors on Tuesday, Feb. 22. It offers the same dishes patrons have grown to love, such as the spaghetti, lasagna, pizza, baked ziti, and chicken alfredo, among many more. However, there is one popular item that customers can’t seem to get enough of. “Fazoli’s are breadsticks and breadsticks are Fazoli’s,” Wright said. “It’s our No.1 signature item. If you forget breadsticks, you’re not going to have happy guests.” He also noted that the restaurant is still situated in a good location - on the busy corridor of Alexander Street. A traffic ana sis also determined that it was the right spot. What’s more, it’s located within the vicinity of other eateries such as Domino’s Pizza and Kentucky Fried Chicken. It’s a good thing said Wright, because you want that competition. This restaurant is the third in Florida, joining the ones in Clermont and Mary Esther, and now makes the 217th in the country. Twenty more are expected to be built around the country by the end of this year, according to Wright. “We’ve had so much demand from residents in Florida and other states, that we’re trying to expand as quickly as we can,” he added. The majority of the restaurants are located in the Midwest cities such as Lex-

ington, Louisville, Indianapolis, St. Louis, and Kansas City. The restaurant chain was established in 1988 and continues to expand, with four franchise groups actively searching where to build new Fazoli’s within the state. “We’re going to open up a lot of restaurants in Florida in the next couple of years,” Wright said. The owners of the former Plant City Fazoli’s plan on opening another one near Busch Gardens in Tampa. Brady Keys is the co-owner of the returning Fazoli’s along with his brother Rodney. “This is exactly the type of town that we like to be in,” he said. “We had this opportunity and it was in Plant City. We were familiar with the store. It was a no-brainer.” Keys and his brother looked at different franchises that they could potentially invest in, starting with those in Orlando. When they came across Fazoli’s, they didn’t hesitate taking ownership of one and made a deal with the property owner of its current location. They have a history of managing other chains such as KFC and Burger King, focusing their businesses in Michigan and Georgia. The KFC that the brothers had in Georgia was a success and had that same small town feel like Plant City. In fact, their father opened up his fi st restaurant in 1967 called All Pro Chicken Supreme. He was a former football player for the Pittsburgh Steelers, which inspired the name. Keys said that its location not only to other restaurants, but to department stores like Walmart and Lowes will also be beneficial In attendance for the ribbon cutting were Fazoli’s initial training team, where managers help train new staff membe s on how to prepare food and maintain the restaurant. It currently has over 50 employees but the goal is to reach about 65. The restaurant will eventually have its mobile app operating to make orders, followed by third-party delivery and large catering orders. Seeing the success of the new Chick-fil A in town, Keys has faith that Fazoli’s will prosper as well.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

FL residents scramble to get last Walking Liberty Rolls FLORIDA - Once Florida residents got wind that Florida State Restricted Bank Rolls filled with Silver Walking Liberties dating back to the early 1900’s were being handed over, there was a mad dash to get them. That’s because some of these U.S. Gov’t issued silver coins are already worth hundreds in collector value. “It’s like a run on the banks. The phones are ringing off the hook. That’s because everyone is trying to get them before they’re all gone,” according to officials at the National Mint and Treasury who say they can barely keep up with all the orders. In fact, they had to impose a strict limit of 4 Florida State Restricted Bank Rolls. So, if you get the chance to get your hands on these State Restricted Bank Rolls you better hurry because hundreds of Florida residents already have and you don’t want to miss out. You see, the U.S. Gov’t stopped minting

these Silver Walking Liberties in 1947 and there can never be any more which makes them extremely collectible. And here’s the best part. The rolls are unsearched so there’s no telling how much they could be worth in collector value. That’s why at just the $39 state minimum set by National Mint and Treasury it’s a deal too good to pass up. But you better hurry because these Florida State Restricted Bank Rolls are the only ones known to exist and Florida residents are grabbing them up as fast as they can. That’s because they make amazing gifts for children, grandchildren and loved ones. Just imagine the look on their face when you hand them one of the State Restricted Rolls — they’ll tell everyone they know what you did for them.

■ GOT ‘EM: Residents all across Florida who get their hands on these State Restricted Silver Walking Liberty Bank Rolls are definitely showing them off. That’s because they are the only ones known to exist. And here’s the best part, these Bank Rolls are loaded with U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberty coins some dating back to the early 1900’s and worth up to 100 times their face value so everyone wants them.

Last State Restricted Silver Walking Liberty Bank Rolls go to Florida residents

Florida residents get first dibs on last remaining Bank Rolls loaded with U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberties dating back to the early 1900’s some worth up to 100 times their face value for the next 2 days STATE DISTRIBUTION: A strict limit of 4 State Restricted Bank Rolls per FL resident has been imposed

FLORIDA - “It’s a miracle these State Restricted Bank Rolls even exist. That’s why Hotline Operators are bracing for the flood of calls,” said Laura Lynne, U.S. Coin and Currency Director for the National Mint and Treasury. For the next 2 days the last remaining State of Florida Restricted Bank Rolls loaded with rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberties are actually being handed over to Florida residents who call the State Toll-Free Hotlines listed in today’s newspaper publication. “National Mint and Treasury recently spoke with its Chief Professional Numismatist who said ‘Very few people have ever actually seen one of these rarely seen Silver Walking Liberties issued by the U.S. Gov’t back in the early 1900’s. But to actually find them sealed away in State Restricted Bank Rolls is like finding buried treasure. So anyone lucky enough to get their hands on these Bank Rolls had better hold on to them,’” Lynne said. “Now that the State of Florida Restricted Bank Rolls are being offered up we won’t be surprised if thousands of Florida residents claim the maximum limit allowed of 4 Bank Rolls per resident before they’re all gone,” said Lynne. “That’s because after the Bank Rolls were loaded with 15 rarely seen Silver Walking Liberties, each verified to meet a minimum collector grade of very good or above, the dates and mint marks of the U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberty Half Dollars sealed away inside the State of Florida Restricted Bank Rolls have never been searched. But, we do know that some of these coins date clear back to the early 1900’s and are worth up to 100 times their face value, so there is no telling what Florida residents will find until they sort through all the coins,” Lynne went on to say. And here’s the best part. If you are a resident of the state of Florida you cover only the $39 per coin state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury, that’s fifteen rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberties worth up to 100 times their face value for just $585 which is a real steal because non state residents must pay $118 per coin which totals $1,770 if any coins remain after the 2-day deadline. The only thing Florida residents need to do is call the State Toll-Free Hotlines printed in today’s newspaper publication before the 2-day order deadline ends. “Rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued silver coins like these are highly sought after, but we’ve never seen anything like this before. According to The Official Red Book, a Guide Book of United States Coins many Silver Walking Liberty Half Dollars are now worth $40 - $825 each in collector value,” Lynne said. “We’re guessing thousands of Florida residents will be taking the maximum limit of 4 Bank Rolls because they make such amazing gifts for any occasion for children, parents, grandparents, friends and loved ones,” Lynne continued. “We know the phones will be ringing off the hook. That’s why hundreds of Hotline Operators are standing by to answer the phones beginning at 8:30 am this morning. We’re going to do our best, but with just 2 days to answer all the calls it won’t be easy. So make sure to tell everyone to keep calling if all lines are busy. We’ll do our best to answer them all.” Lynne said. The only thing readers of today’s newspaper publication need to do is make sure they are a resident of the state of Florida and call the National Toll-Free Hotlines before the 2-day deadline ends midnight tomorrow. ■

SILVER: one of the last silver coins minted for circulation

ENLARGED TO SHOW DETAIL: year varies 1916-1947

LAST REMAINING: minted in philadelphia, denver & san francisco

RARELY SEEN: minted by the u.s. mint in the early 1900’s

FACTS:

HOW TO CLAIM THE LAST STATE RESTRICTED BANK ROLLS

Are these Silver Walking Liberties worth more than other half dollars:

Yes. These U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberties were minted in the early 1900’s and will never be minted again. That makes them extremely collectible. The vast majority of half dollars minted after 1970 have no silver content at all and these Walking Liberties were one of the last silver coins minted for circulation. That’s why many of them now command hundreds in collector value so there’s no telling how much they could be worth in collector value someday.

How much are State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls worth:

It’s impossible to say, but some of these U.S Gov’t issued Walking Liberties dating back to the early 1900’s are worth up to 100 times the face value and there are 15 in each Bank Roll so you better hurry if you want to get your hands on them. Collector values always fluctuate and there are never any guarantees. But we do know they are the only Florida State Silver Bank Rolls known to exist and Walking Liberties are highly collectible so anyone lucky enough to get their hands on these Silver Bank Rolls should hold onto them because there’s no telling how much they could be worth in collector value someday.

Why are so many Florida residents claiming them:

Because they are the only State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls known to exist and everyone wants their share. Each Bank Roll contains a whopping 15 Silver Walking Liberties dating back to the early 1900’s some worth up to 100 times their face value. Best of all Florida residents are guaranteed to get them for the state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury of just $39 per Silver Walking Liberty for the next two days.

How do I get the State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls:

Florida residents are authorized to claim up to the limit of 4 State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls by calling the State Toll Free Hotline at 1-800-979-3771 Ext. RWB4189 starting at precisely 8:30 am this morning. Everyone who does is getting the only State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls known to exist. That’s a full Bank Roll containing 15 Silver Walking Liberties from the early 1900’s some worth up to 100 times their face value for just the state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury of just $39 per Silver Walking Liberty, which is just $585 for the full Bank Rolls and that’s a real steal because non state residents are not permitted to call before 5 pm tomorrow and must pay $1,770 for each Florida State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Roll if any remain.

If you are a Florida State Resident read the important information below about claiming the State Silver Bank Rolls, then call the State Toll-Free Hotline at 8:30 am: 1-800-979-3771 EXT: RWB4189

NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY, LLC IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. MINT, THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, A BANK OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. IF FOR ANY REASON WITHIN 30 DAYS FROM SHIPMENT YOU ARE DISSATISFIED, RETURN THE PRODUCT FOR A REFUND LESS SHIPPING AND RETURN POSTAGE. THIS SAME OFFER MAY BE MADE AVAILABLE AT A LATER DATE OR IN A DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. NATIONAL R1043R-5 MINT AND TREASURY, PO BOX 35609, CANTON, OH 44735 ©2021 NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

Bethel Missionary Baptist Church holds 136th Anniversary The church is the oldest uninterrupted church in Plant City. TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

Bethel Missionary Baptist Church opens its doors to the congregation every Sunday, welcoming all who wish to come as they are to gather in worship. Stepping through the entryway and into the chapel this past weekend it may have seemed like any other Sunday with members making their way in, welcoming each other and talking in the pews as they waited for the service to begin. One noticeable difference this past Sunday however, was the massive blue banner that hung behind the podium and the choir to celebrate the church’s 136th anniversary. Now 136 years old is the oldest uninterrupted church in Plant City since its beginning in 1886, with many of the other active baptist churches in the area tracing their history back to Bethel Missionary Baptist. “Now as we celebrate Father God, help us to commemorate all of those that went ahead of us, making the way possible for us to sit in such a plush atmosphere,” minister Don Roberts said. “We thank you for all that you have done, we thank you for all of the years that you have brought this church through. We thank you for the patrons, the ancestors that made it possible. Strengthen us now as we celebrate you by way of our praise and worship as we give you glory for all that you’ve done… We thank you for this 136 years. We celebrate you because it was you that made it possible.” For many in the congregation, their connection to Bethel Baptist Church runs through their parents, their grandparents and sometimes even their great-grandparents. The church is about more than just the building that allows them to worship together each week, but it’s also about all

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of the years and history and generations that have made it a staple in the community. It’s about the church’s senior missionary and youth groups, along with their visits to nursing homes and food pantries to help provide for those in need. Church member Essie Lewis understands that as well as anyone. Lewis is a Plant City native who began attending the church as a child with her grandfather and her mother before becoming the fi st black member of the Florida Strawberry Queen’s Court as a First Maid in 1973. Since then, Lewis graduated from Florida A&M University, served 20 years as an educator in both Tallahassee and Hillsborough County and has been endlessly involved in positive causes that are close to her heart throughout Plant City, including Bethel. During the service, Lewis stepped to the front to present an official ecognition and congratulations on behalf of Mayor Rick Lott and the rest of the Plant City Commissioners. “I still remember going with my granddad, that’s why I’m there…” Lewis said. “It was a little wooden church across the street. My granddad went there, and I want to say his dad did too. It’s just like a hereditary thing. My mom went to Bethel, I went to Bethel, it’s a family tradition.”

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

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Although he’s keeping the classic look on the outside, he plans to re-model the interior. For years, he’s been putting his vehicles on display, not only in Plant City, but Sarasota, Citrus Park, and Brooksville. He said that of all the vehicles present, he had his eyes only set on the hot rods. The sun glistened on the jet-black exterior of a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air, owned by Gene Rodriguez. “This is my little car I take to the car shows,” he said. “I love coming to Plant City.” Rodriguez said that he’s nostalgic for the 1950s and that, along with the design, is what inspired him to purchase that vehicle. The interior has been refurbished with an orange steering wheel and leather seats. He doesn’t really see many of these on the road and says that other drivers are always waving at him and giving compliments. Although he has an interest in cars from the 1950s, he saw another car outside that decade that he could see himself driving. “A little while ago I saw a 60’ Impala and just fell in love with it,” Rodriguez said.

Ken Jones’ GMC Caballero was another vehicle that drew a sizable crowd. Before coming to the car show in Plant City, he made a pit stop at another one that took place in Wesley Chapel. “They had over 600 cars outside,” Jones said. “They had almost 300 cars inside. I get here and they’ve got 400 cars, so this is about a 1,500 car day for me.” Mike Young was one of the AAA representatives who came out in support of the event. He is a life agency development specialist who oversees the company in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. He’s heard the comments that the classic cars are nostalgic, bringing back simpler times. “We also have newer cars and older cars so it brings younger people with older people,” Young said. To promote these annual events, AAA will use social media as well as the chamber of commerce. He was interested in a Ford 100 pickup truck at the back of the parking lot. With his birthday around the corner, he hinted that it may be a gift for himself.

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SPORTS

BASEBALL SEASON OPENS WITH A BANG Strawberry Crest and Durant opened their 2022 baseball seasons victorious on Tuesday, while Plant City saw something even greater. TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Quick Hits PLANT CITY HEAD COACH TO STEP AWAY Plant City High School head coach James Booth has notified the chool’s staff and ootball team that he is resigning from his position with the team. Booth has led the Raiders for six seasons, amassing an overall record of 29-23 since taking over for the 2017-2018 season. In that time, Plant City won a district championship over Tampa Bay Tech on the heels of a 9-2 season in 2018. The Raiders finished the 021 season with a 6-4 record in the regular season and earned a spot in the regional quarterfinal .

PLANT CITY AREA SOFTBALL GETS ROLLING While baseball teams around the area kicked off their easons this week, the softball teams from Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest all opened their Spring 2022 seasons on Tuesday as well.

Softball - Feb. 22 ROBINSON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 DURANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 ALONSO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 PLANT CITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 STRAWBERRY CREST . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 BLOOMINGDALE. . . . . . . . . 1

The 2022 baseball season kicked off on Tuesday for all three Plant City area baseball teams, with Strawberry Crest beating Osceola, Durant beating Hillsborough and Plant City getting a nohit performance from starting pitcher Adan Longoria in their 8-0 win over Middleton. Plant City took a 2-0 lead in the second, tacking on three more runs in the third and fifth innings, but the productive night at the plate was all a formality behind Longoria’s stellar effort on the bump. The junior right-hander struck out 16 hitters while surrendering one lone walk in the Raiders’ 8-0 victory to open the season. At 4 p.m., Strawberry Crest opened their season at Jesuit High School where they took on Pinellas County’s Osceola High School. In the top of the first, starting pitcher Luke Richardson surrendered one run on two hits, but would cruise through the Osceola lineup for the rest of his outing. Richardson would hold the Warriors without another hit until the fifth inning before getting the next hitter to roll over for a double play ball to Rayallen Vasquez at second base. Richardson would finish his day with five innings pitched, three hits and just one run allowed. But despite falling into an early 1-0 hole, the Chargers wasted no time bouncing back. Crest opened the bottom half of the frame with back-to-back triples from Elijah Vickers and Ethan Pues to tie the game in just two at bats. After a hit batter and a walk, the bases were loaded for RBI singles from Vasquez and

Akhil Nimmala. A sacrifice fly to left from Austin Pendino capped the four-run first for the Chargers. “It was big,” Strawberry Crest head coach Eric Beattie said. “You come out and you’re trying to throw up a goose egg and then score first. We didn’t but we came back and answered immediately. It showed a lot from our team, the fact that they weren’t just going to lay down after getting scored on in the first inning of the season.” Vasquez drew a one-out walk in the bottom of the third before stealing both second and third, being driven home by a triple to right center off the bat of Nimmala for his second RBI hit of the contest. Pendino followed up the triple with another sacrifice fly and Crest had extended their lead to 6-1. The Chargers made a move to the bullpen to start the sixth inning and Osceola was able to take advantage, pushing a run across with a sacrifice fly of their own before later drawing a bases loaded walk to close the Chargers’ lead to 6-3. Zachary Redner entered the game as the Chargers’ second pitcher of the inning, eventually getting them out of the jam. In the bottom half of the inning Crest was able to tack on some insurance with two outs. Lance Highsmith roped a triple to center before being driven home on a single to left from Vickers, who would come home to score as well on a double from Pues. Redner remained in the contest for the seventh, shutting the door and securing the 8-3 victory for Crest. “We came out swinging,” Beattie said. “Luke pitched a phenomenal game, threw everything for strikes and

competed well. And our hits, our batters came out really swinging and putting the barrel on the ball.” Back in Plant City, Durant hosted Hillsborough High School later in the evening to open their 2022 season with a victory of their own. In the absence of starting pitcher Blaine Rowland due to injury, newly-added senior Torin Byrnes got the start for the Cougars. Hillsborough was able to string together a few hits in the first to take a 1-0 lead, but much like Crest, Durant wasn’t down for long in the contest. In the bottom half of the inning, leadoff hitter Avery Cherry and the big bat of Dylan LaPointe were able to work their way on base for Carlos Morales who cleared the bags with a double to left center, kicking off a massive 3-for-4 opening day for the sophomore. Morales would advance to third on a ball in the dirt and later score on a passed ball as Durant built a 3-1 lead in the inning. “The bats right now are kind of what’s special with us…” Durant head coach Butch Valdes said. “I’m excited to see these guys keep going. When everybody’s clicking, it’s definitely going to be pretty exciting this year.” Both teams would remain scoreless in the second, but Hillsborough would cut their deficit in half with a two-out, RBI double in the top of the third. Still leading 3-2 in the bottom of the fifth, Byrnes would reach base on a walk before advancing to second on a balk from the Terrier’s pitcher. Another walk to Brantley Howard would put runners on first and second, then advancing to second and third on

Hillsborough’s second balk of the inning. The following at bat, Devin Suero came up with a big double to right, scoring Byrnes and Howard for some insurance runs and a 5-2 lead. In the top of the sixth, Byrnes would retire the first hitter but a walk to follow would force a move to Gavin Florio from the bullpen for Durant. Byrnes finished the night with two earned runs on 5.1 innings pitched. The Hillsborough baserunner would make his way around to third, but backto-back strikeouts would get the Cougars out of the threat unscathed. Morales roped his second double of the night in the bottom of the sixth before coming around to score on a single from Florio, giving Durant one final run and a 6-2 lead. Florio would come back out for the top of the seventh, sitting the Terriers down in order and sealing the 1-0 start to the year. “It’s huge,” Valdes said about seeing Byrnes step up for the pitching staff. “We have another senior in Weston Sanchez who will be throwing on Thursday but it takes some of the load off of his back, so Torin is huge for us right now. And Florio is huge. We have a couple more guys that are in the pen that we’re going to see come out, to see if we can get those arms going. We seem to pop up with new arms all the time. We had to do it last year so they kind of figured it out and we’ll do it this year.” Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest will all be back in action on Thursday as the Cougars head to Sumner, the Raiders host Newsome and the Chargers return to Jesuit for a matchup against Northeast.

Durant beats Plant City to close out preseason tournament

The Cougars bested the Raiders in their last exhibition contest. In the final game of the 2022 Plant City High School Baseball Preseason Classic, Durant toppled Plant City 6-0 in the last exhibition game before both teams kicked off their regular season this week. “The defense came out tonight and the bats were still there, which was nice,” Durant head coach Butch Valdes said. “The boys are swinging the bat well.” Heading into the season, Plant City potentially boasts one of the deepest pitching staffs in the area and a wealth of returning production while Durant is looking to bounce back strong after a State Final Four appearance in 2021, despite the loss of 14 graduating seniors and their top arm in Sean Hermann, a 13th-round selection

in last year’s MLB Draft. If one thing worked well for Durant’s largely inexperienced lineup throughout the preseason classic, it was their bats as they scored four runs off of Bloomingdale and starting pitcher Jack Owens — a senior committed to Stetson U niversity — and six runs in a 6-0 shutout victory over Plant City. “It’s good seeing the better arms when you play the Bloomingdale’s and the Plant City’s, you get to see those live arms,” Valdes said about playing two strong teams in the preseason. “And that’s what we want to see by playing these better schools. It’s just a good opportunity to get started on the season next week.” In the contest, junior Dylan

LaPointe — committed to Florida Atlantic U niversity — came up with the first run batted in of the night early on a double in the top of the first, giving the Cougars’ a 1-0 lead, and a second run came across in the inning on a dropped third strike. In the second, Durant tacked on one more as sophomore Nick April-Gath punched a single to right before Devin Suero came all the way around from first on a wild throw to third, giving the Cougars a 3-0 lead. Both teams were held scoreless in the third when April-Gath came up big for the Cougars’ again, driving home junior Aidan Welsh who had reached earlier on a hit by pitch before advancing on a sacrifice bunt from Suero.

But April-Gath’s big night wasn’t over. In the top of the sixth, with Welsh on second after another hit by pitch and Suero on first via a walk, April-Gath launched a double into the left field gap, falling just between two streaking Plant City fielders and scoring both runs to give Durant a 6-0 lead that they would cling to for the remainder of the big win. On the mound, the Cougars got a scoreless, four-inning outing from senior Weston Sanchez before Gavin Florio ate up two scoreless innings of his own and April-Gath shut the door in the seventh to cap his strong preseason run.

In addition to his three-RBI game against Plant City, AprilGath also notched an RBI single against Bloomingdale. “He swung the bat great tonight,” Valdes said. “But again, everybody kind of contributed tonight which was nice. It’s coming together.”

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

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

PLANT CITY NARROWLY FALLS IN REGIONAL TOURNAMENT

Despite a valiant effort, the Raiders weren’t able to overcome Olympia. TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Plant City hit the road and traveled up I-4 to Orlando last week to match up with the 20-7 Olympia Titans in the regional quarterfinals. After losing a wire-to-wire district championship game against Newsome in one of the best matchups of the year for Plant City area basketball, the Raiders once again fell victim to another close contest as Olympia scraped by with the 70-65 victory. The first quarter was back and forth as Olympia took a lead early and held on to an 18-14 lead heading into the second quarter. In the second, Olympia began to pull away as they jumped right out to 26-18 lead within minutes, and then a 34-24 lead as they continued to hit their shots from the field with consistency. Plant City would claw away at the Titan’s lead and keep the game within swinging distance, but would enter halftime facing a 34-26 deficit. The Raiders looked like they were fired out of a cannon to begin the second half, with a 3-pointer from guard Damian Jones and a driving layup through contact from D.J. Haynes. What would kick off a stellar half from both Jones and Haynes, Plant City had closed the gap to just 34-31 in the blink of an eye. But the Titans never faltered and answered back with a 3-pointer of their own. As Olympia continued to score, Plant City would punch back. Trailing 39-32, Jones came

through with another 3-pointer. Then it was Mike Bell with a three, then another strong layup from Haynes and the Raiders had battled back with an eight-point run to take a 40-39 lead in the third. Olympia responded with a 3-pointer again to take the lead back at 42-40, and Jones got three more of his own and a 43-42 lead back after hitting a layup through the foul and converting the lone free throw. After four straight points from the Titans, two more buckets from Haynes and Jones left it tied at 47-47. Olympia hit one of two free throws on their next possession and Jones fired back with his third 3-pointer of the quarter, right before the buzzer, to give Plant City a 50-48 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Late in the game Olympia ultimately proved too much to overcome for the Raiders. Hopping back out in front 57-52, Plant City would continue to keep it close with more huge shots from Haynes, Jones and Bell, but never found themselves back in the lead. Haynes led the way for the Raiders with a team-high 22 points – while adding six rebounds and six assists – followed by Jones with 18 and Bell with 12. As the final buzzer sounded, it marked an end to the Raiders’ strong season. Plant City finished the year with a district finals appearance and a 20-8 record, the program’s highest mark since their 23-5 finish in 2017-2018.

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

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

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YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

289704-1

We asked Plant City: What is your favorite part of the Florida Strawberry Festival? “Smitty’s Corndogs & Peachey’s Donuts. Bumping into friends I haven’t seen in a while.” - Peggy Nagles Damron “Livestock shows.” - Amanda Harper “Making new memories each year with my family and the amish donuts.” - Shineta Armour “My wife and I watching my daughters ride the kiddie rides and the family going to St. Clements to get strawberry shortcake.” - Bobby Raines “The strawberries! I don’t care who’s serving them or how, I just want to eat some juicy strawberries!” - Lucie Townsend Mays

“The part where I walk in the gate with my family in tow. Being together and reliving year after year our traditions and being thankful for our heritage of all things Plant City and our wonderful celebration of the strawberry harvest.” - Kim Clemons “The market sales for swine and steers because you get to see all the support that local businesses have for youth in agriculture!” Kendall Donaldson “Every bit of it!” - Stephanie Oliva “Food and entertainment.” - Bobbi Largent

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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Terry V. Levins, 73, of Dover, Fla., born in Sarasota County on Dec. 9, 1948, entered into eternal rest on Jan. 30, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Janda D. Grace-McBeth Janda D. Grace-McBeth, 64, of Plant City, Fla., born March 02, 1957, entered into eternal rest on Feb. 10, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Maria Rosa Quirantes

James Troy Hutchinson

Lawrence Beaty

Lawrence Beaty, of Melrose Fla., born March 12, 1955, passed away at Maria Rosa Quirantes, James Troy Hutchinson, age 66 on July 8, 2021. He 82, of Tampa, FL passed age 72, of passed away on away on Feb. 17, 2022. February 20, 2022. The fam- was preceded in death by his wife Alice Beaty, Father Funeral services were held ily will receive friends Feb. Alvin Beaty Sr. and brother Feb. 23, 2022 at Haught 24, 2022 from 10 to 11 a.m. Lyle Beaty. Lawrence is Funeral Home Chapel, 708 at Haught Funeral Home W. Dr. Martin Luther King Chapel, 708 W. Dr. Martin Lu- survived by Mother Jean Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL ther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City, Gallagher (Lakeland); Son Arty Heistand (Plant City); 33563. FL 33563. Funeral services Twin Brother Lloyd Beaty Online condolences may will follow at 11 a.m. (Melrose); Four sisters be left for the family at Online condolences may Teresa Beaty (Keystone), haught.care. be left for the family at Linda Keel (Lakeland), haught.care. Carolyn Buechler (Plant City), and Kathy Conroy HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM (Spokane, WA); Grandson Arty Heistand Jr (Plant HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM City), and four great Tammy Wise grandchildren. There will Hatcher be a memorial burial at Memorial Park, Plant City. Tammy Wise Hatcher, 62, of Brandon, Fla., born in Tampa on May 20, 1959, went to be with the Lord on Feb. 17, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

OBITUARIES

Terry V. Levins

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ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

116 North Collins Street Plant City, FL 33563 ph: (813) 567-5735 allabloomtampa.com

YOUR CALENDAR

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

BEST BET FRIDAY, FEB. 25 LAST FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN

5 to 9 p.m. at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. The Last Friday in Downtown Food Truck Rally is held with a new theme each month. There will be live music, market vendors and food trucks. The event is family and pet friendly and all are recommended to bring chairs and blankets. This month’s theme will be Pokemon in Downtown.

SATURDAY, FEB. 26 MENTAL HEALTH COMMUNITY EVENT

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 301 N. Palmer St. Empathy Counseling, LLC will be hosting a Mental Health Community Event at the ASO Children’s Board of Plant City. The event will feature fun activities for children, free mental health services and an opportunity to learn more about additional mental health resources right here in your community. For more information, visit www.empathycounselingllc.com or contact Joy Pierce at 813-730-1010.

BLUEGRASS NIGHT

7 to 8:30 at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Head down to Krazy Kup for Bluegrass night, starring the Sandy Back Porch Band. The Sandy Back Porch Band features hard-driving traditional Bluegrass music at lightning speed, offering peoplepleasing, toe-tapping performances. With hotter-than-fi e, time-honored standards played the way they are supposed to be played, their music is sure to bring a smile to the face of Bluegrass lovers anywhere. Tickets for the event are $15 and can be purchased in-house or on www.eventbrite. com.

NEW BEGINNINGS

7:30 to 9 p.m. at 303 N. Evers St. The Plant City Community Chorale is excited to announce their annual spring concert, New Beginnings. In the spirit of New Beginnings for the Chorale, this will be their fi st performance under the direction of their new Artistic Director, Coleman Flentge. The performance’s musical selections will echo the theme of welcoming and trusting in the exciting possibilities that newness can offer. The event will take place at First United Methodist Church and tickets will cost $15, with children 12 and under admitted free. Tickets are available at www.pcchorale.org, www.facebook.com/ PCCommunityChorale, Walden Lake Car Wash, any chorale member, by calling 813965-7213 or at the door on the night of the concert.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2 SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS WITH ESTRANGED FAMILIES

6:30 to 8 p.m. at GracePoint Church, 1107 Charlie Griffin d. Join other parents who are estranged from their adult children. PEAK (Parents of Estranged Adult Kids) group provides a safe place to listen, share and support others going through the hurt of adult family abandonment. Meetings will include group discussions, self-care

and positively-influen ed activities to help cope with the situation. Meetings are held the fi st Wednesday of each month. For more information, visit www.peaksupportgroup.com.

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 benefi s please take advantage of free assistance at the Bing House Museum, 205 Allen St., every Wednesday. Walk-ins are welcomed, or call 813-7065800 to set a specific tim .

THURSDAY, MARCH 3 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

10 a.m. at 2209 W. Oak Ave. Head down to the opening day of the Florida Strawberry Festival. The annual 11-day festival kicks off on Ma ch 3, featuring entertainment from Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra at 10:30 a.m., The Oak Ridge Boys at 3:30 p.m. and Lady A at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.fl trawberryfestival.com.

MONDAY, MARCH 7 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY GRAND PARADE

1 p.m. in Downtown Plant City. The annual Strawberry Grand Parade will take place on March 7, starting at 1 p.m. The parade will feature dozens of fl ats with hundreds of onlookers as the route heads north on Evers Street before moving west on Reynolds and passing the festival grounds. Watch for road closures beginning at 10:30 a.m. and get there early if you want make sure that you can get a great seat to take in all of the excitement.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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FORECAST

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

THURSDAY, FEB 24

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

SUNRISE/SUNSET Sunrise Sunset Thursday, Feb 24

6:58a

6:25p

High: 90 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 9%

Friday, Feb 25

6:57a

6:26p

Saturday, Feb 26

6:56a

6:27p

Sunday, Feb 27

6:55a

6:27p

FRIDAY, FEB 25

Monday, Feb 28

6:54a

6:28p

Tuesday, March 1

6:53a

6:29p

Wednesday, March 2

6:52a

6:29p

High: 89 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 11%

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, FEB 26 High: 90 Low: 62 Chance of rain: 8%

SUNDAY, FEB 27 High: 89 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 9%

MONDAY, FEB 28 Lisa Hoover snapped this picture of a gator hanging out on a log and catching some rays at Walden Lake.

ONLINE

High: 80 Low: 55 Chance of rain: 9%

Across 1 Hardly a routine favor 7 Rubs out 15 Project that led to the fi st moonwalk 16 “And how!” 17 Rounds of shots 18 Meditation goal 19 Money in music 20 “__: a Dog”: 1962 film based on a 1919 novel 21 Fruit with a Medjool variety 22 Fathers and sons 23 Portable Asian dwellings 25 “Live at Red Rocks” musician John 26 Fathers and sons, say

27 Tiny resistance unit 29 Petrol measure 31 Start of a Seuss classic 36 Galleria degli Uffizi c y 37 Range in which 7 is neutral 38 “Swords into plowshares” prophet 39 Had difficu y 40 Maker of many jets 42 Fields of cookies 43 __ entry 47 Plant that has become invasive in much of the Eastern U.S. 48 One acting badly 49 “Swan Lake” maiden 51 Vitamin bottle abbr.

52 Marathoners’ sources of energy 54 Telemarketing tactic 56 “Scream” scream 57 Rule that keeps you from spelling weirdly? 58 With great intensity 59 Colonists 60 Dr. Scholl’s product Down 1 Stalwart political group 2 Apples since 2012 3 The best of times 4 Harmonica-playing chipmunk 5 Gin fl voring 6 Ring decisions

7 Off-the-wall 8 No longer fazed by 9 Time meas. 10 VA concern 11 Mount an attack on 12 Kiwi-shaped 13 Bashes 14 Just baked, say 20 Riches 23 1994 co-Nobelist with Yasser and Shimon 24 Fluffy toy 26 Ex-U.N. chief Annan 27 “Anaconda” rapper Nicki 28 Kenyan tribe 30 Worn welcome symbol 32 Game show VIPs 33 Enclave in Italy 34 Warning signal 35 High-tech capacity units 37 Pie sometimes topped with pineapple 39 Gatherings before snaps 41 Salon device 43 Day of film 44 Brick of the Southwest 45 High land 46 Up in the air 48 Long-eared critters 50 Biol. branch 52 “Big Brother” host Julie __ Moonves 53 Terrier breed from Scotland 55 “What __ the odds?!” 56 Go downhill fast

March 2 New

March 10 First

March 18 Full

Mar. 25 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

0.03 in.

1.27 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

FEB. AVERAGE:

3.15 in.

2.33 in.

STRAWBERRIES Shipping point: Central Florida $9.90-$30.00

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022

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