2.4.21 PLCO by Plant City Observer

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FREE • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

VOLUME 6, NO. 131

ONE DEAD, TWO INJURED IN JAN. 31 CAR CRASH Joel Orozco, 12, of Plant City, died from injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash in the early hours of Jan. 31. The driver of the other vehicle was arrested on several DUI-related charges. The other occupants in the vehicle with Orozco were injured in the fiery crash.

SEE PAGE 6

ROOTS PREPARES FOR PROPAGATION

Roots Cellars, the new expansion of Roots Tap Room & Wine Bar, will offer high-quality retail wine, beers and “doodads” for the community. It has a soft opening tomorrow and its grand opening is next Tuesday afternoon. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Plant City is evolving. It’s evident by the residents that are moving to the city and in the growing focus on revitalizing downtown. And it’s evident in the new businesses springing to life around the community. Less than two years ago, Brandon Snyder took a risk and opened a wine bar in historic downtown. Plant City had nothing like it and Snyder joked many in the community weren’t sure if there would even be a demand for such a unique venue. Roots Tap Room & Wine Bar opened in Aug. 2019 and became a staple in much of the community’s routine within weeks. No longer did residents have to drive to Tampa or St. Petersburg to find a wine bar — a highquality venue was now right in their back yard. Interest in events, themed programs and private parties flooded in and Snyder soon had to juggle a packed schedule.

Then the pandemic hit and everything changed. “Whenever COVID started, I shut down for five weeks because I didn’t know what was going to happen,” Snyder said. “Then I opened for retail only. I was talking to my reps and watching as retail sales of wine were skyrocketing across the country. I noticed that the people coming in for retail were a different crowd than the bar crowds. I suddenly had an entire new base of customers and their interests and wants were different from those that had just wanted to come and have a glass of wine or a beer after work. Then once people were allowed to come back inside, with of course 10 people or less, we suddenly got a lot of requests to host private parties and that led to private wine tastings. Private events started gaining big popularity because it allowed friends or those who kind of were in a bubble with each other to come and enjoy a night out without having to worry about strangers in a crowded bar.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

Courtesy of Florida Strawberry Festival

Florida Strawberry Festival Corvette raffle open The Florida Strawberry Festival’s annual Chevrolet Corvette raffle, a partnership with Stingray Chevrolet, is now live. For $5 per ticket, you can get a chance to win a brand new 2021 Chevrolet C8 Corvette 1LT with 490 horsepower, a “torch red” paint job and many more features. You can buy tickets online at stingraychevrolet. com/chevrolet-charity-raffle until 3 p.m. March 12, in-person at Stingray Chevrolet through 6 p.m. March 12 or at any time on the grounds of the Florida Strawberry Festival up until 4:30 p.m. March 14. The raffle winner will be announced at 5 p.m. March 14 on the grounds. The winner does not have to be present at that day and time to be able to claim their prize. All proceeds from the raffle, a staple of the festival for 11 years, will benefit Unity in the Community.

Discounted Florida Strawberry Festival admission tickets on sale now

If you can’t wait for the Florida Strawberry Festival to go full steam ahead, stop by Publix stores in Plant City and around Central Florida this week for a sweet deal. Publix has discounted admission tickets for sale at each store’s customer service desk this week. The rates are $8 for adults, $4 for kids age 6-12 and kids age 5 and under get in for free with a paying adult.

Courtesy of SFBH

Both Plant City stores have the discounted tickets available. For a full list of participating Publix stores, visit flstrawberryfestival.com/wp-content/ uploads/2016/09/Strawberry-FestivalStore-List-2021-for-website.pdf.

Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections announces scholarship opportunities for college students

SFBH gets stroke certification

College students in certain fields of study are eligible to win a $1,200 scholarship from the Florida Supervisors of Elections, Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer announced Monday. The FSE has three $1,200 scholarships available for students majoring in political science, public/business administration or journalism/mass communication. Students must be either accepted or enrolled as a full-time student in a senior college or university in Florida and must have completed two years of junior college or undergrad work. The deadline to apply is Mach 26 and winners will be announced at the FSE Summer Conference. For the full list of requirements and for more information, applicants are encouraged to visit votehillsborough.org/Florida-Supervisors-ofElections-Scholarship or contact Digna C. Alvarez at 813-612-7975 or dalvarez@ hcsoe.org.

South Florida Baptist Hospital announced it has received Primary Stroke Certification from international accrediting body DNV GL Healthcare. This certification signifies clinical excellence through diagnosis, stabilization and treatment by the hospital’s stroke team, the hospital said in a press release. “This certification is an outstanding indicator of the excellent stroke treatment we provide,” hospital president Karen Kerr said. “The standards for this certification are extremely high. I give credit to BayCare for aspiring our stroke centers to reach these standards. The communities we serve at South Florida Baptist Hospital can be assured of our commitment to clinical excellence when treating a stroke.” In 2019, BayCare started the 18-month process of having all 12 of its stroke centers, including SFBH, be certified by DNV GL Healthcare. A team of DNV GL surveyors observed practices, interviewed teams and reviewed documentation. DNV GL’s survey incorporates standards from the Guidelines of the Brain Attack Coalition and recommendations from the American Stroke Association.

Plant City Optimist Club to host first round of annual oratorical contest for local youths

Youths younger than age 19 (as of Oct. 1, 2020) who are not enrolled as degreeseeking students at a post-secondary institution can participate in the Feb. 15 contest, which will begin at 6:30 p.m. that evening and will be held at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, 302 S. Maryland Ave. All contestants will be asked to prepare a four-to-five minute speech around this year’s theme of “Healing the World with Optimism” and present it in front of an audience of family members and the Optimist Club. Judges from the Plant City Toastmasters will grade each contestant based on their poise, adherence to the topic, overall effectiveness and their delivery and presentation. The overall first, second and third place winners will receive cash prizes of $100, $75 and $50, respectively. The top two finishers will move on to the Zone 6 contest in Winter Haven in March. Those who continue to perform well in this year’s circuit can win anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 in scholarships at the North Florida District Finals in April and possibly advance further to the sixth annual World Championships in St. Louis, MO in July. Since 2001, nine Plant City-area youths have won the North Florida District Finals competition and two have competed at the World Championships. Visit plantcityoptimistclub.org to register and get more information.

The Plant City Optimist Club is getting ready to host its annual Oratorical Contest and registration is now open.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

CHAMBER EMBRACES BEST OF PLANT CITY

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce always steps into the new year with a gala to honor the incoming Board. At the event the organization also hands out awards for those were were deemed the Best of Plant City. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The Best of Plant City were honored last week during the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s annual gala. As the chamber prepared to enter a new year, the community gathered alongside to celebrate the victories accomplished in 2020 despite the crippling pandemic that is still ongoing throughout the nation and much of the world. This year’s event was held at Wishing Well Barn. In order to maintain the COVID-19 safety regulations, things looked a little different at the annual Chamber Gala. For example, the past chairmen of the chamber typically come on stage and pass the gavel from the earliest chairman’s hand to that of the current chairman, who in turn will pass it on to the new chairman that will step up to helm the organization for the next year. Rather than have the gavel physically pass through a plethora of hands, the chamber had past chairmen head to the dance floor in front of the stage and the gavel was passed only from Courtney Paat to incoming chair Mike Arndt. Paat took a moment to reflect on the past year. The theme was “Reimagine” and she said when it was selected at the end of 2019 the chamber had no idea how true that theme would be. “We had a great start to the year: a successful networking lunch, the 10th anniversary of Planes, Trains & Automobiles, a relationship building Tallahassee Trek and an amazing Roaring 20’s themed gala. Then the world stopped,” Paat said. “All events were cancelled, calendars were cleared and we all went home. With our calendars cleared however, we were given an opportunity to press pause, decide our true purpose and reimagine the chamber in ways we never dreamed of.” Paat went on to share many of the abrupt changes the chamber implemented. The organization strengthened its alliances with the Florida Chamber and local chambers to “create a platform of reliable and consistent content.” The Plant City Partnership was revitalized to focus on the new Back to Business Campaign that centered around safely reopening businesses, financial support for businesses to recover and a buy local campaign. The chamber switched from a massive in-person candidate forum to a virtual interview process that allowed anyone to get an in-depth look at each candidate from the comfort of their own home before the elections. The RISE events were available via Facebook Live and the Be Informed video series was streamed by residents all over the community. “This year was not what we planned. No chair wants to be the one to cancel all events, but in a way we got what we asked for — to reimagine how our chamber served our members,” Paat said. “In a matter of moments, COVID laid bare

for us our true value: advocacy, education, leadership development and being a trusted resource. We’ve adapted, stayed true to our purpose and have become more relevant than ever.” For years, the oldest living past chairman was Don Walden, who in many ways was a cornerstone of the community. Walden died Jan. 18, 2021 and the chamber asked those gathered to take a moment of silence in his honor. Then Paat passed the gavel to Arndt, owner of Minuteman Press in Plant City and Brandon. Arndt started the Minuteman Press franchise in Plant City in 2004 and expanded it into Brandon in 2009. He has been active in Rotary for 20 years and has served on the Board of Directors for three years. He has served the Plant City Chamber of Commerce as a Board Member, Vice Chair of Government Affairs, was on numerous committees, was an ambassador, Chair-Elect and the 2021 Chairman of the Board. Arndt is also a graduate of Plant City Leadership class of 2007. Arndt shared memories with the crowd of immersing himself in the community via the chamber and reflected on moments that remained close to his heart as he started his career here. He remembers the chamber members who went out of their way to welcome him to the community and praised the chamber for its ability to quickly adapt in 2020. “Due to the swift and decisive actions taken by Christine (Miller), Courtney, the board of directors and staff, our chamber came out of 2020 very strong without touching any of our reserves,” Arndt said. “Moving forward into 2021, we will continue to evaluate what has worked in the past, what needs to change and how we can move successfully into the future.”

All photos courtesy of Deanna Hurley Photography

THE CHAMBER’S BOARD FOR 2021 IS:

Chair-Elect: Jake Raburn (Hinton Farms) Immediate Past Chair: Courtney Paat (State Farm) Treasurer: Irene Castillo (Raulerson, Castillo & Co.) Vice Chairman, Community Relations Division: Nick Thurston (Bank of Tampa) Vice Chairman, Community Event Division: Chuck Gore (Stahl Insurance) Vice Chairman, Membership Division: Lisa Rhodes (Marzucco Real Estate) Vice Chairman, Governmental Affairs: Wesley Joyner (Pilot Bank)

DIRECTORS:

Kayla Drawdy (Hillsborough Title) Jason Jones (Advantage Restoration) John Haney (ACE Realty) Deanna Hurley (Deanna Hurley Photography) Shelley Jemison (Solution Source) Tim Lovett (The Florida Strawberry Festival) Dean Pfeffer (Hope Lutheran Church) Karen Kerr (South Florida Baptist Hospital) Arley Smude (MAKE Plant City) Trey Stevens (Coulter, Aviles & Co.) Shari Sun (Suncoast Community Health Centers) The evening wrapped up with the award ceremony that the community waits in anticipation for each year. The annual Chamber Gala always includes the Best of Plant City awards.

THIS YEAR’S WINNERS WERE

Best Community Event Award: The United Food Bank’s Empty Bowls Customer Service Award: The Corner Store Non-Profit Award: Bikes for Christ Economic Development Award: Jesse Carr New Business Award: Second Plate Catering Small Business Award: Plant City Observer Business of the Year Award: Patterson Companies Entrepreneur of the Year Award: Aaron Davis (Hillsborough Title) Rising Leader Award: Kayla Drawdy Health & Wellness Award: Chris Welbon Karate Clubs Community Service Award: Stingray Chevrolet The Spirit of the Chamber: Ross Spano and Rick Lott Employer of the Year Award: Jarrett-Scott Ford Downtown Enrichment Award: Krazy Kup

COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRURY 4, 2021

PLANT CITY

Observer

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigated a stolen bike, fraud, drag racing, a cut cattle fence,

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

stolen sneakers and more.

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

Photo: iStock

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

JANUARY 15

BACKPACK BLUES

CUT AND RUN 3410 block of West Baker Street Theft: This complainant stated someone stole his bike while he was getting a haircut in a barber shop. The complainant parked his bike in front of the business and saw it was gone when he was done getting his hair cut.

2500 block of James L. Redman Parkway Theft: This complainant stated he left his blue Nike backpack outside of the Dollar Tree store when he entered it at 9 p.m. Jan. 16, and it was gone when he left the store. The backpack contained $11, his ID and a cell phone charger.

JANUARY 16

JANUARY 18

TWO FOR ONE DEAL

BANK ACCOUNT BONANZA

2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway Multiple charges: Police arrested a male subject and a female subject for shoplifting. They also found the female subject had an active violation of probation warrant from the state DOC for grand theft of a motor vehicle.

1300 block of North Palm Drive Fraud: This complainant stated that after his phone was stolen some time ago, someone used his identification to open multiple bank accounts.

CONSOLE CROOK 1410 block of Plantation Circle Residential burglary: This complainant stated someone entered her apartment and stole a Sony PlayStation 4.

JANUARY 17 DON’T HAVE A COW, MAN

JANUARY 20

NEED FOR SPEED

SNEAKY SNEAKERHEAD

1700 block of Sansone Boulevard Felony criminal mischief: Officers responded to Mike Sansone Park in reference to a report of vehicles possibly drag racing in the park. A juvenile subject was arrested.

1900 block of East Calhoun Street Theft: This complainant stated someone took several pairs of shoes from her front porch. TOOL TIME 1700 block of West Charlotte Street Vehicle burglary: This complainant stated unknown suspect(s) shattered a window of his pickup truck and stole a gas-powered Still concrete saw from within. The saw was valued at $1,000.

JANUARY 21

710 block of South Evers Street Petit theft: This complainant stated someone took his air compressor from the side of his shed without his permission.

GOTCHA Wilder Oak Place/ Wilder Park Drive Recovered stolen vehicle: Officers patrolled the area of Wilder Oak Place and Wilder Park Drive after a 1997 Jeep Wrangler that was reported stolen was seen in the area. The officers were able to find the Jeep and recovered it.

Reece Road/Turkey Creek Road Criminal mischief: This complainant stated someone cut the cattle fence at the corner of Reece and Turkey Creek roads, causing approximately $100 in damage.

BAD FOR BUSINESS 900 block of North Gordon Street Fraud: This complainant stated an unknown subject fraudulently used his privately-owned business to open a bank account and get a loan.

JANUARY 27

AIRING IT OUT

JANUARY 19

JANUARY 26

ALL OF THE LIGHTS

JANUARY 23

2700 block of Wilder Meadows Lane Theft: Unknown suspect(s) stole $392.07 worth of light fixtures and bulbs from homes under construction.

PRIME TARGET

JANUARY 28

400 block of West Ball Street Fraud: This complainant stated he received an email from Amazon referencing orders made on his account. The complainant was given the opportunity to have the issue corrected in exchange for money, and it was after he sent the money that he realized he was being scammed.

CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW? 4010 block of Jensen Drive Fraud: This complainant stated an unknown suspect fraudulently opened a Verizon account in her name and racked up an outstanding balance of $1,420.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

WWE SUPERSTAR TITUS O’NEIL TO SPEAK AT THE UPCOMING BLACK HERITAGE GALA The annual weekend of festivities hosted by Plant City Black Heritage Celebration, Inc. has a few changes this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The Gala and Youth Summit will be held like normal, but the Jazz Festival and the Gospel Concert have been canceled.

Heritage Celebration, Inc. and Hillsborough Community College are holding this year’s gala at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 12 at the Trinkle Every year, the community Center, 1206 N. Park Road. comes together for a weekend Thaddeus Bullard, aka WWE filled with celebrations hosted Superstar Titus O’Neil, will be by the Plant City Black Heritage featured as the keynote speaker Celebration, Inc. The annual and will speak to the theme Black Heritage Banquet and Gala of “Remembering The Past, is a night filled with camaraderie, Shaping The Future” during the great food and a message from a evening. Rod Carter, anchor with keynote speaker that never fails Channel 8, will be the master of to inspire the crowd. ceremony. The 18th annual Black Heritage “We’re inviting the community Education and Cultural Festival to come out and support and celis scheduled for February 12 and ebrate Black History Month, but 13 and its theme is “Rememalso to give back because all the bering The Past, Shaping The proceeds we raise go toward our Future.” The Plant City Black scholarships which we give out to

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

the community,” Sharon Moody, event coordinator, said. Those who purchased a ticket in advance and plan to attend must wear a face mask. Tickets cannot be purchased at the door and must have been purchased in advance. Social distancing is required and each table will only have four seats in order to ensure proper distancing is enforced. The proceeds from this event benefit the organization’s annual scholarship fund. There are a few tickets left, so if you wish to purchase one you should contact Moody as soon as possible by phone at 813-453-7134 or by email at sharonmoody91@yahoo. com.

From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. the next morning, the annual Youth Summit will be held at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, 302 S. Maryland Ave. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. This is a free event that will offer free continental breakfast and lunch to all participants. There is a cash prize to the group with the most in attendance. Masks are required. Traditionally, the Jazz in Downtown Plant City festival would kick off at the Robert W. Willaford Train Museum as soon as the Youth Summit wraps up. The next day, the Gospel Concert would draw another crowd for a group worship. However, with

the ongoing pandemic the Plant City Black Heritage Celebration, Inc. choose to err on the side of caution and canceled both of the events. So this year, only the banquet/gala and the Youth Summit will be held. For more information, contact Moody at the above listed phone number or email.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

PLANT CITY BOY KILLED IN MULBERRY AREA CAR CRASH A Mulberry man was charged with DUI manslaughter after Joel Orozco died following a Jan. 31 incident.

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Courtesy of Polk County Sheriff’s Office

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

A 12-year-old Plant City boy died in a twovehicle crash near Mulberry early Sunday morning. Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies said Mario Martinez, 30, of Mulberry, was driving a Toyota Corolla westbound on State Road 60 at approximately 12:22 a.m. while Andres Orozco, 42, of Wauchula, was traveling south on Coronet Road in a pickup truck with two passengers — the aforementioned Joel Orozco and Angel Orozco, 14, also of Plant City. Orozco pulled into the intersection into Martinez’s path and the impact ejected Joel and Andres Orozco from the truck. Angel Orozco was not ejected from the truck and got out with help from people nearby. No one in the truck wore a seatbelt but Martinez was wearing his. Martinez’s Corolla also caught

fire and the roadway had to be shut down for five hours, PCSO said. Deputies arrived to find Joel Orozco unresponsive in the median of the highway and he later died of his injuries after being airlifted to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa. Andres Orozco suffered a broken neck and broken leg and PCSO said he is in critical but stable condition. Angel Orozco suffered a broken collarbone but was later released from Lakeland Regional Health. Martinez suffered a broken leg and was treated and released at Lakeland Regional Health, and he was arrested upon release on charges of DUI manslaughter, DUI crash with serious injury (two counts), DUI and driving without a valid license. PCSO is still investigating the crash.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

ROOTS CELLARS BRINGS SOMETHING NEW TO DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Roots started booking up with private events and Snyder realized that even when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis allowed bars to reopen, the pandemic led to a new and ongoing demand: people want to be able to pick up unique wines to take home with them and they want to socialize in private, closed-off events. Years ago, Snyder saw the need for a wine bar and chased the dream. Now he saw the need for a new experience: a wine cellar where people can pick up retail fine wines, craft beers, cigars and “doodads.” Roots Tap Room & Wine Bar, 101 S. Evers St., is still open and operating like normal. Cellars is a new undertaking, an expansion of the brand Snyder has created in downtown Plant City. Roots Cellars, 303 S. Collins St., has its soft opening from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. tomorrow and Saturday, and its grand opening will be at 4 p.m. Feb. 9 via a special ribbon cutting presented by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. Typically if locals want to have a bottle of wine at home, they run to the supermarket, browse the one aisle of offerings and pick up one of the handful of brands they’re familiar with. There’s no sommelier lingering in the aisle to help them discover their new favorite bottle. Roots Cellars will bridge that gap for shoppers. The atmosphere of the new venue is a nod to what Plant City will hopefully soon become: a trendy yet laid-back destination known for its high-quality products. Dim lights glow over the polished wood tables and shelves. Taxidermy hang from many of the walls — including a massive buffalo head when you walk in the door — and leather chairs add a sense of homey comfort to the

venue. If you know what you’re looking for, great — head to the red wine room or the white wine room, grab what you want and check out. For everyone else, Snyder said he’ll be there — along with his pup Toka — ready to walk customers through the different offerings until they can find the perfect bottle for them. He’s built a reputation on his ability to find the perfect wine or beer for each individual customer’s palate with a brief lineup of questions. If you sit at the bar at Roots on Evers Street, you’ll often hear regulars come in and ask him to pick something for them. His knowledge is vast and he always goes the extra mile to explain the differences between each item on his menu. “There’s this belief that drinking and learning about wine is a complex thing,” Snyder said. “You know that picture that pops in your mind when you think of wine tastings is someone swirling wine around a glass with their pinky out. Well that’s not what we’re about here. We say ‘pinkies in, it’s just juice.’ We try to give people an experience they’ll enjoy and that they’ll remember. We hope that we can help them find things they may never have thought to try before that they’ll end up loving. You can walk through these doors and talk to us and ask questions and we are going to make sure we find something you love. And if you’re not sure, we’ll open the bottle and let you taste it right here so you can know exactly what you’re buying.” Snyder said the goal is to hold private tastings on Fridays at Roots Cellars, which will offer more of a classroom vibe, and then people can walk over to Roots Tap Room & Wine Bar afterward to hang out and enjoy glasses of whatever wine and beers they enjoy most. There will be maps at both locations that show how to easily walk one street over to get to the other venue and you will get a discount for choosing to visit both.

Roots Cellars is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and then Snyder hopes to host private events there at night. Snyder said the ultimate goal is to one day own five businesses in downtown with the hopes of opening each new one every two years. He’s had a solid team with him to bring Roots Cellars to life and said without the help of Tom Wing, with Purple Winery, Courtney Donovan, with Johnson Brothers, and his good friend Kevin Huston, he never would have been able to get Cellars ready to open so quickly. Huston and Snyder are two of the 3 Buffalo, LLC, a group of three friends who hoped to spread their love of wine, craft beer and fine dining to the masses. Huston helped Snyder launch Roots Tap Room & Wine Bar and came back to bring Cellars to life as well. Huston came down from Manhattan to help Snyder while Huston’s restaurant was closed down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “There’s a lot of great things about Plant City, but I think the one thing that always stands out to me is the people, they are just unbelievably kind and supportive here,” Huston said. “They take care of Brandon and seem to really want to continue to grow and improve their community. As of right now there’s really nothing that you can go to and experience the hospitality and the educational purposes about wine, and that’s where the Cellars will step up to the plate. We want there to be all kinds of restaurants and breweries and locations like this in the area because they all will

support each other and make Plant City a destination. I think Brandon is helping to create that new wave in downtown and we’re really excited to see what’s going to follow.” Snyder said Cellars is opening with a light inventory so the business can soon take on the life of the community. If customers request certain wines, Snyder will do some research and add them to the inventory. The goal is to make Roots Cellars a reflection of the community while also having new and exciting options for people to constantly try something different and expand their palates. On top of the alcohol, Roots Cellars will also feature small boutique options for women and “dude-tique” options for men who want to take merch home with them. “This has been an exciting process for us, and really I just can’t wait for the community to come check it out and see what we’ve built,” Snyder said. “People have already popped in and seem to be just kind of blown away. We’re constantly changing, whether it’s the bar or the Cellars. We are doing things in Plant City that no one has done before and allowing our clientele to guide us. I think that’s why we’ve been successful so far. We are offering something new, but listen to our community and reflect what they want as well. It’s a partnership and it’s something I hope we can continue here.”

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

BRINGS THE HEAT The annual ChiliFest drew a strong gathering to downtown Saturday as the community sampled homemade chilis and helped raise money for the Arts Council of Plant City’s scholarship projects.

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Chili connoisseurs put their taste buds to the test Saturday during the beloved ChiliFest. The annual event raises funds for the scholarships given out by the Arts Council of Plant City each year and is always held at the train depot at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum. Attendees purchase a bowl and spoon and then go taste the concoctions whipped up by more than 20 teams comprised of members of the community. Performances by Drawdy’s Dance School and Chris Welbon Karate Clubs entertained the attendees while they enjoyed their bowls of chili. After they ate their fill they voted for their favorite dish. A panel of judges assessed each offering as well. Some chilis had unique ingredients like venison, black eyed peas and, of course, strawberries. Others stuck to the basics,

but added secret ingredients passed down from generation to generation. It’s as much an homage to the culinary arts as it is a celebration of the diverse history of the community. THIS YEAR’S WINNERS: People's Choice Brick City Bricks Mild Chili 1st Place: Holloway Heat 2nd Place: Brick City Bricks Novelty Chili 1st Place: Lawrence Valdez 2nd Place: Brent’s BBQ Spicy Chili 1st Place: Holloway Heat 2nd Place: Scooby’s Outdoors Adventures

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: There will still be strawberry shortcake at the Florida Strawberry Festival I read the Plant City Observer article today (Jan. 21) about the strawberry shortcake. There are three booths that sell shortcake: St.Clement’s, East Hillsborough and Transforming Life Church. My husband is the pastor at Transforming Life Church and our church has been selling shortcake at the festival for 42 years including this year. We love serving our community and we will continue to serve this year at the festival.

Even if the other community partners that the festival leaders are reaching out to fall through, there will still be shortcake at the festival because our church has already agreed and has the volunteers ready to work — masks and all. — Hayley Judah

OPEN ENROLLMENT

Constant Walden Lake power outages unacceptable is unacceptable to the residents of this Plant City development. Meanwhile, homeowners are being forced to replace electric equipment and the insurance companies send claims back and suggest action against the power company. We have had enough of this. Absent some positive affirmative action, property values already affected by the “golf course” fiasco will be severely impacted. The Walden Lake community, once the crowning glory of Plant City, is being left to be a community in which no one wants to purchase a home.

FREE Microsoft Office 360 account with customized student e-mail EDventure Before & After School Program Galileo Program Advanced Studies Enhanced sanitation protocols in every classroom Accreditation by:

— Al Whitaker, Walden Lake resident

304 W. Prosser Dr., Plant City | 813-567-0801 info@AdvantageAcademyHillsborough.com AdvantageAcademyHillsborough.com 287682-1

Here is a festering issue of over three years of power surges, power interruptions and power failures in the Walden Lake development. Repeated efforts to get answers and solutions have met with no one accepting responsibility and worse, no hope for a solution. TECO blames COVID, blames vermin invading their equipment and any other excuse they can find. Worse, they offer no solution. City commissioners and the homeowners association say utilities are neither their concern nor within their power to do anything. TECO is not beyond accountability and someone needs to force this issue, even with a time frame and penalties for non-conformance. Ignoring this matter or distancing from the responsibility

GRADES K-8

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FEBRUARY 4, 2021

SPORTS SHOOTING FOR THE FUTURE:

TRI-STAR BASKETBALL CONTEST RESULTS

HELPING PLANT CITY YOUTHS PICK UP THE GAME OF POOL

Courtesy of PCPRD

The 48th annual Tri-Star Basketball Skills Contest, sponsored by the Optimist Club of Plant City and the Plant City Parks and Recreation Department, was held at 9 a.m. Jan. 30 and saw 34 participants compete at the new Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center. All participants are tasked with dribbling through a set of cones in a race against the clock, throwing chest and bounce passes at a target and hitting shots from the free throw line and beyond. The top three finishers in each age group received an award for their efforts and the Senior Jaguars team, which had the most participants show up in uniform, won a free pizza party.

A local nonprofit offers free coaching and more for kids interested in learning to play billiards at a high level.

AGE 8 BOYS:

First place: Zarion Jones (63 points)

AGE 9 GIRLS:

First place: Kara Ouzts (81 points) Second place: Abela Cisneros (78 points) Third place: Kourtni Hall (52 points)

AGE 9 BOYS:

First place: Landon Farrell (81 points) Second place: Anthony Gonzalez (52 points)

AGE 10 GIRLS: First place: Grace Thomas (27 points) Second place: Janiah Foster (17 points)

AGE 10 BOYS:

First place: Carter Durrance (99 points) Second place: James Wilson (79 points) Third place: Truth Gendren (76 points)

AGE 11 GIRLS:

First place: Lily Hart (117 points)

AGE 11 BOYS: First place: Brayden Thompson (118 points) Second place: Carter LeClair (96 points) Third place: Moses Lopez (94 points)

AGE 12 BOYS:

First place: Ricky Hall (138 points) Second place: Chase Herren (118 points) Third place: Landyn Jackson (116 points)

AGE 13 GIRLS:

First place: Emily Blair (122 points)

AGE 13 BOYS:

First place: Brayden Edgemon (145 points) Second place: Zayveon Springfield (116 points) Third place: Will Cline (104 points)

Justin Kline

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The beauty of a game like billiards, Thomas White believes, is its accessibility. The physical demand of sports like football and hockey isn’t there and it’s relatively easy to find somewhere to play at any time. That’s why the game is growing and getting friendlier for younger players. There are around 50 juniors in Florida playing at the competitive level by his estimation, and his son Trenton White has already made a name for himself competing in tournaments all over the world and has won 14 state championships over the years. There’s clearly potential for a boom under the right conditions. Shooting for the Future, a nonprofit established last year, aims to make all of those stars align for kids without putting a financial burden on their parents. The group originated in Zephyrhills and is based out of Mainstreet Billiards, Executive Director Brandon Butts’ pool hall, but it has expanded into Hillsborough and Polk counties. The Whites linked up with the program to bring it to Plant City and local kids as young as 7 (though there is some wiggle room if they can reach up over the table to shoot) can learn from them and others involved in the program. “We teach them the basic fundamentals,” Thomas White said. “How to hold a bridge hand, how to hold a stick. And

then as they get more advanced, we work on their shots and aiming capabilities. Then we work on their english, get into more advanced shots as they progress. We prep them and get them on an advanced level.” Getting in on this program is simple. Plant City’s coaching hours are from 4:30 to 7 p.m. every Monday at Mikey’s Place, 3412 W. Baker St., but families are welcome to bring their kids at any time during that block — so if you can’t make it to the pool hall until closer to 6 p.m., it’s not a problem. There are seven-foot tables available for the younger players as well as full-size tables for older ones. Shooting for the Future also lets its young “Shooting Stars” work with the kids. That includes Trenton White, who has already turned pro at age 16, and Pasco kids can learn from 12-year-old international 9-ball champ Sofia “Pink Dagger” Mast. “It’s great showing kids what I know and what I’ve learned over the years, giving back and hoping they can reach my level,” Trenton White said. It’s also completely free. Shooting for the Future is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that relies entirely on community support to help the kids. Not only does that mean free coaching, but it also means the kids who go on to junior competition will cover tournament entry fees, travel costs, gear and uniforms. In this case, Mikey’s Place and Shooting for the Future host monthly tournaments to raise money

and local businesses like Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s, Octopus Car Wash, Fred’s Market and Johnson Barbecue help with raffle and giveaway items. “Instead of raising money at the last minute for these kids, we do it every month year-round so we have a stash,” Thomas White said. “Now when these events come up, Shooting for the Future can just pay for it.” The program has been a staple at Mikey’s Place for about five weeks and running. Mikey’s Place, which opened on Oct. 7, 2020, was intended from the start to be a family-friendly restaurant and pool hall — so it’s the perfect home for a program like Shooting for the Future, owner Mike Mofield said. “We’ve got people donating their time and we don’t charge anything for these kids to learn,” Mofield said. “You learn about pool, learn about math, learn about competition and you’re hanging out with other people instead of sitting at home playing video games. You’re interacting with other kids… we’re happy to be part of it. We’re glad to be able to do this for the Plant City community.”

For more information on Shooting for the Future, visit shootingfuture.org.

PREP SCOREBOARD BOYS BASKETBALL JAN. 25 Plant City 74, George Jenkins 50 JAN. 26 Durant 58, Newsome 42 Kathleen 65, Plant City 63 Lakeland 64, Strawberry Crest 56 JAN. 27 Durant 76, Riverview 62 Wharton 60, Strawberry Crest 41 JAN. 29 Durant 70, Sumner 36

Berkeley Prep 72, Strawberry Crest 59 FEB. 2 Plant City 71, Hillsborough 69

GIRLS BASKETBALL JAN. 25 Chamberlain 57, Plant City 17 Spoto 40, Strawberry Crest 36 JAN. 26 Riverview 54, Durant 19 Plant 65, Plant City 17

JAN. 27 Bloomingdale 34, Durant 32 Wharton 81, Strawberry Crest 33 JAN. 28 Jefferson 69, Plant City 24 Strawberry Crest 50, Gaither 23

BOYS SOCCER JAN. 19 Durant 4, Spoto 1 Plant City 2, Lennard 1 Strawberry Crest 5, Wharton 0

JAN. 22 Plant City 2, Lakeland Christian 1 JAN. 26 Newsome 3, Plant City 1 Steinbrenner 4, Strawberry Crest 1 JAN. 27 Robinson 1, Durant 0

GIRLS SOCCER JAN. 19 Durant 8, Spoto 0 Plant City 5, Lennard 2

Strawberry Crest 3, Wharton 2 JAN. 26 Plant City 8, Hillsborough 0 Newsome 5, Strawberry Crest 0 JAN. 27 Durant 4, Robinson 1

PlantCityObserver.com

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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.

BAILEY AND CODY: Bailey and Cody proudly wear their Tampa Bay Buccaneers jerseys in anticipation of Super Bowl 55 in Tampa. Just bring on the snacks! Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be cheering along with their dog-parents, David and Stephanie Hrenchir of Plant City.

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YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR We asked Facebook: What’s the best gift to get for Valentine’s Day?

“Time.” — Amanda Beveard “Chocolate covered strawberries.” — Donna Keeler Elliott “Whiskey, scotch, bourbon or beer.” — Bret Walley

OBITUARIES

AROUND TOWN

289704-1

Christopher ‘Bam’ Joe Morton

Ronald D. Holland

Ronald D. Holland, 88, of Plant City, born Christopher “Bam” Joe Morton, in Tampa, on April 8, 1932, entered into 28, of Tampa, born in Jasper, Ala- eternal rest on January 25, 2021. Expressions of condolence bama on March 31, 1992, entered at HopewellFuneral.com. into eternal rest on January 22, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Paul Edwin Lewis Paul Edwin Lewis, 78, of Mulberry, born on April 10, 1942, entered into eternal rest on January 26, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Edward T. Crawford Edward T. Crawford, 78, born in Chicago, Illinois on February 27, 1942, entered into eternal rest on January 25, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Tommy Eugene Perkins Tommy Eugene Perkins, 78, of Plant City, born in Bright, Indiana on January 27, 1943, entered into eternal rest on January 27, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Emmanuel Glaros Emmanuel Glaros, 87, of Plant City, passed away on January 29, 2021. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Services will be held privately. Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com and friends. Funeral services were held February 3, 2021 at Hopewell Funeral Home, 6005 South County Road 39, Plant City. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hopewell Baptist Church at hopewellbaptistfl.org. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Sylvia Bowers Adams, 81, of Dover, born in Plant City on October 12, 1939, entered into eternal rest on January 24, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Jack Clark Jack Clark, 75, of Valrico, born in New Castle, Pennsylvania on December 7, 1945, entered into eternal rest on January 27, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Teresa Maria De La Garza Teresa Maria De La Garza, 82, of Plant City, born on June 9, 1938 in Rayones, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, entered into eternal rest on January 27. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Carolyn B. Wood

Carolyn B. Wood, 70, of Lithia, born in Arlington, Virginia on July 10, 1950, entered into eternal rest on January 27, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

George Hubert Snapp George Hubert Snapp, 85, of Plant City, was born on May 19, 1935 and entered into eternal rest on January 29, 2021. He was a lifelong resident of the Hopewell community and a retired principal for Hillsborough County Public Schools, having served at Wilson and Springhead elementary schools. He had a passion for education and touched the lives of many students as well as faculty. He loved and was particularly proud of his family. Hubert had a love for the outdoors, especially fishing and bird hunting. He was a voracious reader, a student of history and loved the art of conversation. He was preceded in death by wife, Murriel Kate Snapp. He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Sandra Snapp; children, Lisa Diane Granger (Douglas) of Plant City, Scott Snapp (Karen) of Plant City, step-children Ginger Parks (Will) of Plant City, Gina Smith of Ocala, and Garett Peacock (Terri) of Dade City; grandchildren, Casey (Tina), Sunny (Ellen), Skotti (Leo), Sara Kate, Colton, Dylan, Gage, McKenzie, and Cameron; greatgrandchildren, Luke, Corinne, Cole, and Henry; sister, Melba June Wheeler (Jerry) of Lakeland; and many other extended family

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

He is survived by his wife of Roberta Ann 36 years, Tina Davis; chilHouseman dren, Katlyn M. Elliott (Lee) of Thonotosassa, and Devin W. Roberta Ann Houseman, 58, Davis (fiancé, Emily Weaver); of Plant City, passed away on grandson, Sawyer Elliott; Tuesday, January 19, 2021. Rosiblings, Teresa Panesso, Glenn berta was born March 31, 1962 Davis, and Deborah Davis; in Orlando. Services were held we’re dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ RE P RO U D TO S E RV E our community aunt, Betty Clipper (Gene); January 27, 2021 at Wells Memounique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, parents-in-law, Diane Yates rial Funeral Home. > 100%and Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability (Wilford), and Roy Bryan; Fond memories and expres> Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® many other family and friends. sions of sympathy may be R A graveside service will be held shared at www.WellsMemorial. Proudly supporting the Plantthe City Houseman Strawberry Festival.family. Saturday, February 6 at 11:00 com for A.M. at Bloomingdale Cemetery, 3301 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico. WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Taking care of each other is what

community

is all about.

OBITUARIES

Sylvia Bowers Adams

Taking care of Jamesanna each other is whatTucker 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com

Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy

Jamesanna Tucker, 85, of Lakeland, community passed away on Saturday, January

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10/27/15 10:42 AM

is30,all about. 2021. Jamesanna was born Octo-

Eugene Molocea

ber 18, 1935 in Plant City. A graveside service was held February 3, 2021 at Eugene Molocea, 74, of Plant City, we’re dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ RE P RO U D TO S E RV E our community Steve W. Davis unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal,1, compassionate since Enon 1896. Cemetery. passed away on February 2021. careMt. celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, Fond memories and expressions MaSteve W. Davis, 59, of Plant City, Eugene was a United States > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability > Themay Compassion Helpline®at www. > Bereavement sympathy be shared rine Corps veteran. Services will TravelofAssistance born in Tampa on October 13, WellsMemorial.com for the Tucker 1961, entered into Heaven’s gates be held in Ohio at a later date. R family. Online condolences may be leftsupporting on January 29, 2021. Proudly the Plant City Strawberry Festival. He was a member of Lone Oak for the family at haught.care. Baptist Church and owner of American Irrigation Services. He loved his family and the Lord, and WELLSMEMORIAL.COM enjoyed hunting and fishing. The loss to the family is great, but Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy they are comforted in knowing 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com they will see him again in Heaven. He was preceded in death by HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM his parents, Ronald and Charlotte Davis. ®

M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

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YOUR CALENDAR

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12

BEST BET

MOVIE TRIVIA NIGHT

COOKIE DECORATING PARTY

10 a.m. Hungry Howie’s, 208 N. Alexander St., is hosting a Valentine’s Day-themed cookie decorating party for families with kids age 12 and under. The event is free to attend but space is limited, so send a direct message to the @hungryhowiespc Instagram account to reserve your spot

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6

PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS

BLUEGRASS JAM

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This is an open invitation for local bluegrass musicians and fans to come to the Krazy Kup Loft, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., and jam, clap hands, stomp feet, and enjoy. They host a Bluegrass Jam the first Saturday of every month. BEGINNING RUMBA/CHA CHA CHOREOGRAPHED BALLROOM LESSONS 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Strawberry Square Dance Center, 4401 Promenade Blvd. Learn basic steps that you can use at social events. Cost is $7.00 per lesson per person. Social distancing, no changing partners. Call 864-723-6965.

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 813626-4554.

PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE

6 to 9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Square Dance Center, 4401 Promenade Blvd. Plant City Social Dance will have dances every Saturday night in the month of January at the Strawberry Square Dance Center. From 6 to 6:30 p.m., there will be ballroom music for ballroom dancers. The regular dance goes from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.The cost to dance is $7 per person and attendance is limited to 50 people with reservations. Call DJ Ken Miller at 863-

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5 JAMES HURLBURT & CO.

7 to 8:30 p.m. Join Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., for an evening of live music with James Hurlburt & Co. A love offering will be collected.

$85

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Emergency TILE & GROUT Emergency

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

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

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9 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 10 FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY VETERANS

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11 PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS 7:30 to 9 a.m. Join the Plant City Toastmasters for breakfast, laughs, and fun; there’s no better way to start your Thursday mornings. Bring a chair and a mask. The Toastmasters also offer Zoom meetings for those who can’t make it in person. Visit the Facebook page, facebook. com/PlantCityToastmasters/, for meeting locations and information.

BATON TWIRLING CLASSES

TILE & GROUT

3 Rooms $85

50c per sq.ft.

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includes Hallway cleaned free

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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 813704-5800 to set a specific time. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken at the door.

CARPETS

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

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6

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.

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13 THE WRITERS’ LOFT

9 a.m. Visit the loft at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., on the second Saturday of every month for the Writers’ Loft. Poets, writers, artists, musicians and more creative types who work in all genres at all skill and experience levels are welcome. Admission is $5 and a free drink is included.

GARDEN LOVERS VALENTINE PICNIC

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

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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. 4 High: 69 Low: 45 Chance of rain: 6%

FRIDAY, FEB. 5 High: 77 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 5%

THURSDAY, FEBURARY 4, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Feb. 4

7:13a

6:11p

Friday, Feb. 5

7:12a

6:12p

Saturday, Feb. 6

7:12a

6:13p

Sunday, Feb. 7

7:11a

6:14p

Monday, Feb. 8

7:10a

6:14p

Tuesday, Feb. 9

7:10a

6:15p

Wednesday, Feb. 10

7:09a

6:16p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, FEB. 6 High: 73 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 40%

SUNDAY, FEB. 7 High: 73 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 78% To start Black History Month, Instagramers of Plant City (@igersplantcity) is sharing the stories of Bealsville, one of Plant City’s oldest and most historic communities, on its account this week.

ONLINE

MONDAY, FEB. 8 High: 75 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 46%

Across 1 Big divides 7 Vat sediment 11 Swindler 14 Aid, as a fallen teammate 15 Munch Museum city 16 Crazy Eights relative 17 Connected 18 Power of a Hummer? 20 Greek group 22 Discreetly, in slang 23 Enormous card revealed at end of magician’s routine? 27 Form fig. 28 Fictional anchor Nessman

29 Goes apace 33 “Your point being?” 34 __ 51 36 The slightest bit 38 Tattoo depicting the last woolly mammoth? 41 Avoids 42 Muslim leader 43 Carol contraction 44 Immobilize with a charge 45 “Moby-Dick” setting 46 Bullring bravo 47 Avian mascot on a refueling vessel? 53 Three on a match, they say 56 Ikea purchase

57 Hotel employee who only works one day a month? 59 Acted greenly? 63 It usually needs breaking 64 1968 self-named folk album 65 Stands in a studio 66 Wrap up 67 Changes to green, say 68 Subject of a 2016 U.K. referendum, and a hint to five puzzle answers Down 1 Comic Margaret 2 Egg producer

3 The lot 4 Calvin’s spaceman alter ego, in comics 5 Literature Nobelist Alice 6 Weapon for Goliath 7 Teammate of Babe 8 Legally prevents 9 Justice Kagan 10 Cymbal sound? 11 “Friday I’m in Love” band, with “The” 12 Saved, in a way 13 Holiday song 19 “Ah, I see what you meant” 21 Household cleaning brand 23 Give a hand 24 Dolphins Hall of Famer Larry 25 Japanese mushrooms 26 More substantial 30 “Will this work for you?” 31 French star 32 Longtime breath freshener 34 Back to a mate 35 Dorm, briefly 36 Gasteyer of “SNL” (1996-2002) 37 Network for film buffs 39 Chocolatey Post cereal 40 Apple models 45 Declining due to age 48 “Grr!” 49 Comic Denis 50 Biblical mount 51 “The bad news is ... “ 52 It might have a champion 53 Sound __ 54 Score after deuce 55 Monopoly card 58 Mexican pair 60 __ roles 61 Inventor Whitney 62 Summer hrs.

Feb. 11 New

Feb. 16 First

Feb. 26 Full

Feb. 7 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

0.68 in.

0.00 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

FEB. AVERAGE:

01.14 in.

2.82 in.

STRAWBERRIES Shipping point: Central Florida $18-$24

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

when treating a heart attack or stroke, time is of the essence. even during these times.

Don’t hesitate when it comes to getting emergency treatment. Even during a pandemic, you still need to be treated immediately if you have an emergency. Debating whether or not to risk going to an emergency room during a heart attack, stroke or other health emergency—waiting even a few extra minutes—could be harmful. That’s why in

20-1213541-0920

all BayCare hospital emergency rooms, patients who have symptoms of COVID-19 are screened and treated in a separate area. This helps keep emergency room patients and our team members safe. So if it’s an emergency, don’t wait. For more information: BayCareEmergencyCare.org