3.16.23 PLCO

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Meet The Candidates: City of Plant City City Commission, Group Four

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CUTIE PATOOTIES MELT HEARTS AT ANNUAL BABY PARADE

The Baby Parade is a beloved tradition at the Florida Strawberry Festival and this year’s beautiful baby contest went off lat Saturday without a hitch. Organized by the GFWC Plant City Junior Woman’s Club and sponsored by South Florida Baptist Hospital, approximately 100 children between the ages of one and four years old walked the “runway” with their parents, winking, waving, blowing kisses and even tipping their cowboy hat (whether on purpose or because they just didn’t like the hat, I’m not sure) at the judges to win their favor. The Strawberry Queen and Court emceed the event and by the end of the event a new King and Queen of the Baby Parade were crowned.

WINNERS INCLUDED:

One-Year-Old Division

Best Personality

1st Place: Sophia Martin

Best Costume

1st Place: Shanna Parke

2nd Place: Amelia Gashaw

3rd Place: Tynsleigh Mintzer

Best Float

1st Place: Makynlee Mintzer

Most Beautiful

1st Place: Kataleya Montana

2nd Place:Violet VelazquezHill

3rd Place: Rylan Wilkerson

Most Handsome

1st Place: Liam Tidey

2nd Place: David Gutierrez

3rd Place: Logan Parris

TWO-YEAR-OLD DIVISION

Best Personality

1st Place: Avery Parker

2nd Place: Aven Starling

3rd Place: Lyla Howard

Best Costume

1st Place: Paislee Meachum

2nd Place: Madison Mobley

3rd Place: Gianna Garcia

Most Beautiful

1st Place: Hazley Reagan

2nd Place: Journey Kate Thomas

3rd Place: Annabella Quijada

Most Handsome

1st Place: Carter Nelson

2nd Place: Blake Jost

3rd Place: Luca Neary

THREE-YEAR-OLD DIVISION

Best Personality

1st Place: Macynn Blackburn

2nd Place: Sloane Claussen

3rd Place: Brinlee Kern

Best Costume

1st Place: Paisley Pearsall

Most Beautiful

1st Place: Sadie Ann Lane

2nd Place: Henley Wyatt

3rd Place: Evelyn Grace Carroll

Most Handsome

1st Place: Kellan Royse

2nd Place: Eli West

3rd Place: Carter Jones

FOUR-YEAR-OLD DIVISION

Best Personality

1st Place: Emmersyn

Thompson

2nd Place: Aaliyah Merrin

3rd Place: Jace Michel

Best Costume

1st Place: Lauren Scott Clark

2nd Place: Emma Stoneking

Best Float

1st Place: Elsa Jehl

Most Beautiful

1st Place: Catherine Westbrook

2nd Place: Paris Sheridan

3rd Place: Gianna Gutierrez

Most Handsome

1st Place: Sawyer Keys

2nd Place: Joseph Cruz

Narvaez

3rd Place: Daxton Valdez

Michael S. SparkmanJeremy Griner

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

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

To make an appointment, please call:

• 863.284.5000 for Primary Care or Pediatrics

• 863.284.5115 for Rheumatology

ANGLERS REEL IN AWARDS AT FISHING TOURNAMENT

A total of 55 young anglers between the ages of fie and 15 participated in the Plant City Parks & Recreation Department’s bi-annual Youth Fishing Derby on March 11. The gators steered clear as participants hooked bass, catfish bluegill and even a turtle or two from the pond behind the Plant City Stadium. Twelve-yearold Zander Kent, who attended with his parents and best friend Samuel McDaniel, used a rattle lipless crank bait to reel in a 4.16 lb. bass, the largest fish f the day. “This is my fist tournament win,” he said.

Awards were presented for First Overall Caught Catfish First Overall Caught Bass and Most Fish Caught and Largest Fish caught (by weight) in each age group. A special Captains Award was announced to Ben and Peyton Wells for allowing judges to borrow their handheld fish cale.

The next Youth Fishing Derby will take place on Saturday, October 14, 2023.

Winners included:

First Overall Bass Caught: Dyer Hayes (12), 3.04 lb. bass

First Overall Catfish Caught: Brooklynn Wood, 2.27 lb. catfis

Most Fish Caught (5-10 age group) -This year we did have a cast-off ompetition as there was a tie for a total of fie fish aught with Declan Cadavid (5) reeling in the award, followed by the runner up Addyson Ryals (5)

Largest Fish Caught (5-10 age group): Brantley Bush (10) 2.11 lb. bass, & Levi Hodgson (5), 2.09 lb. catfis

Most Fish Caught (11-15 age group): Griffin Smith (11 18 total fish (7-bluegill and 1 walking catfish

Largest Fish Caught (11-15 age group): Zander Jent (12), 4.16 lb. bass

HELP PAYING FOR INTERNET SERVICE AVAILABLE

If you or someone you know needs help paying for internet services, you may qualify for a monthly discount on a new or existing internet service plan through a government program called the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). You may also qualify for a one-time device discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer or tablet from participating providers.

Here are ways your household can qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP):

* Based on your household income.

* If you or your child or dependent participate in certain government assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid or WIC.

* If you or anyone in your household already receives a Lifeline benefi.

To apply, visit AffordableConnectivity. gov or call 1-877-384-2575 to request

an application. Once your application is approved, you can contact a participating internet service provider to start receiving your monthly discount. Only one monthly service discount and one device discount is allowed per household.

2023 DEAN’S RIDE BEGINS/ENDS AT KEEL FARMS

Registration is now open for 2023 Dean’s Ride on Saturday, March 25 starting at 7:30 a.m. at Keel Farms, located at 5202 Thonotosassa Road. The annual event consists of four cycling distances: 61-mile Metric Century, 35-mile HalfMetric Century, 24-mile Quarter-Metric Century and 9-mile Family Ride. The routes will traverse quiet country roads north of Plant City with riders enjoying the sweet scent of the strawberry field, views of Lake Thonotosassa and sounds of farm animals. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Plant Ciy YMCA and programs like LIVESTRONG, a free wellness program for cancer survivors. Online registration is available until March 24. The entry fee is $65 for the Century races and $25 for the Family Ride. For more information or to register visit www.pcdeansride.com.

IRS TAX TIP

Taxpayers who aren’t able to file y the April 18 deadline can request an extension before that deadline, but know that an extension to file is not an xtension to pay taxes. If you owe taxes, pay them before the due date to avoid potential penalties and interest on the amount owed. Taxpayers who request a six-month extension to file their axes have until October 16 to file their 2022 income tax return. Individual taxpayers, regardless of income, can use IRS Free File at IRS.gov/FreeFile to request an automatic six-month tax-filing extension.

PLAYGROUND GETS NEW EQUIPMENT

New playground equipment has been installed at Gilchrest Park, located at 704 North Pennsylvania Avenue. The ADA-accessible park includes a two-user Friendship Swing, sensory structures, a We Saw, a grip-free Saddle Spinner and more.

Candidates Michael S. Sparkman and Jeremy Griner Run For City of Plant City Commission

In the City of Plant City City Commission Group Four race, incumbent Michael Sparkman will go up against political newcomer Jeremy Griner. The Plant City Observer emailed questions to Sparkman and Griner and received written responses from both candidates.

Only registered voters who live in the City of Plant City are eligible to vote in this election. Voters have three options for voting- Vote By Mail, Early Voting or Election Day voting.

Vote By Mail: All Vote By Mail ballot requests expired December 2022. Voters have until March 25 to request a mail ballot. As of March 2, 1,038 Plant City voters have requested ballots. Voters can call (813) 744-5900 or visit VoteHillsborough.gov to request a mail ballot and must provide their Florida driver license, Florida ID or the last four digits of their social security number when making the request.

Early Voting: Early voting will take place at City Hall, 302 West Reynolds Street,

Friday, March 31 and Saturday, April 1 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Voters can also drop their mail ballot off at a Secure Ballot Intake Station at this site during Early Voting.

Election Day: Election Day is Tuesday, April 4. All precincts will vote at City Hall and voting will be open from 7 a.m.7 p.m. On Election Day, Vote By Mail ballots cannot be accepted at the Election Day polling place but must be delivered to the Supervisor of Elections Office

Here are some of the highlights from my community and public service:

COMMUNITY SERVICE:

Florida Strawberry Festival, Director and Past President

Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay and Plant City, Board Member

Hillsborough Community College, District Board of Trustees and Chairman appointed by the Governor BayCare Health System, Board of Directors

South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation, Board of Trustees

follow through on things to make sure that things get done and am proud of my track record of what I’ve been able to accomplish for our City. I always think long term in my decision making as our kids and grandkids will have to deal with all of the decisions we make today.

I believe that due to my character and my effective leadership, I’ve been given repeated opportunities to serve and lead, and am prepared to continue in service at the highest level for my beloved City and our people here.

Florida Strawberry Festival, I am so proud to serve on and to have been a past President of this Board. I work alongside so many of our citizens who take pride in showing the warm hospitality and bounty of our fields for the hundreds of thousands of visitors we welcome each year. Thank you to each of our many volunteers who make this festival the best of the best! That’s just the Plant City way - we do things right and to the best of our ability!

1. PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL, EDUCATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND.

I am a fifth generation Plant City resident. Our family’s history and community service here in our community definitely precede me, as my great-great-grandfather was the first Tax Collector for Hillsborough County. His son, my great-grandfather, succeeded him as the next Tax Collector and then his son, my Uncle Bill Sparkman, followed after him in that same role. I learned early in life how important public service is, as well as the integrity that not only builds the trust of those you serve, but also helps you weather the times when everyone doesn’t agree with you. You study the issues, seek out input, and then do what you believe is best and right for the citizens. My record stands strong in doing what I believe is right and we have a lot of great things to show for it in every part of our City. My parents are Seymour and Nancy English Sparkman and I am a proud graduate from Plant City High School. I have gone to the school of hard knocks in life as I have worked to build several successful businesses. As a business owner, I understand how to build a strong balance sheet; ensure that employees are well-trained, successful and get paid; and to make sure that you serve your customers well. All of these things from my business experience translate into my public service as well, and I’m very proud to say that during my time in elected office as a Commissioner and Mayor, the City has a strong balance sheet, has a well trained and productive team across all of the different departments and Plant City is highly-rated as a one of the best places to live, work, learn, worship and play. We live in a very special and unique place, and I hope to continue to serve this beautiful community and its residents to ensure it stays that way. My family is the reason why I am so committed to serving this community. Diane Sue Cook Sparkman has been my partner in married life for 57 years and we are blessed with three children, Tommy, Chris and Aimee. Our 8 grandchildren bring us so much joy, but also keep driving me to ensure that the future is secure for their generation and beyond in our beloved town. I want others to have the same opportunities I have had for quality of life with their families.

Gold Shield Foundation, Charter Member Plant City Rotary Club, Member

Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors, Chairman of RelocationCommittee

Capital Campaign for Plant City Family

YMCA, Chairman

PUBLIC SERVICE:

Plant City Commission - 30 years

Mayor of Plant City - 7 terms

Plant City Public Safety Employees Pension Fund, Board of Trustees, Chairman

Plant City Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), Chairman

Hillsborough County Tourist Development Council (TDC), Board Member

COMMUNITY RECOGNITION:

Plant City’s Citizen of the Year, 1985

Presidential Award, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 1993

Small Business Person of the Year, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 1985

Plant City’s Family of the Year, Junior Women’s Club, 1983

Mr. Little League Award, Plant City Little League, 1984

Outstanding Citizen Award, Plant City’s Elks Lodge, 1990

Outstanding Community Service Award, City of Plant City, 1991

Plant City Family YMCA Strong Leader Award (1st to receive), 2003

“Hall of Fame”, Florida Petroleum Marketers Association (FPMA), 2005

Plant City Commission Dedication and Proclamation of “The Michael S. Sparkman Police Center”, 2007

2. WHY ARE YOU THE BEST CANDIDATE FOR THIS OFFICE?

My experience is what makes me the best candidate for this office today. My many years of public service allows me to be most effective in service. The issues we face now make it critical that we have continuity in leadership to ensure stability and effectiveness in making the important decisions that are coming at our community from all angles. However, that experience has come from several important values that guide me and that have allowed me to serve this community as a business owner, as a leader in many of our organizations, and in my role as a City Commissioner. Hard work is important and I’ve never been afraid to roll up my sleeves and do what it takes to tackle any challenge. I am a man of integrity, loyalty and honoring my word. I

3. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE FACING PLANT CITY?

The most important issue facing Plant City is managing growth. We must prepare for the future, maintain our high levels of service, and most importantly, not lose our identity as a community in the midst of it all. These all go hand in hand, and as more and more people are attracted to our area, we must be diligent in how we protect our community. We live where everyone else in the country wants to be, and I take that responsibility very seriously in how we work hard to make sure all of our families are able to enjoy life in this great community for years to come.

4. WHAT ARE YOUR TOP 3 PRIORITIES?

I’ve always said that maintaining the health, safety and welfare of our citizens of Plant City is what drives my decision making as a City Commissioner, but also as a community leader in other organizations. I’ve been involved with South Florida Baptist Hospital over the years and our family, like many others in our community, have relied on them for life-saving healthcare at the most critical times.

Our City’s first responders are the link in those precious minutes of response time that make sure people have the best possible outcomes during an emergency. Our police and fire departments are so important to each of our residents and I’ve always been a champion for them to have the best training, equipment, facilities and leadership. I can’t emphasize enough how grateful I am for each one of these heroes and the sacrifices their families make for our communities. Our community is a place where you can feel safe, protected and able to have the best quality of life because of them.

Our business community provides many opportunities for individuals to work and thrive, and I’ve had a long track record of involvement and support in the organizations that promote and support our employers. As a business owner, I understand how hard it can be, and how important it is to have organizations that help you with resources and networking. My service to the Chamber of Commerce over the years has helped many businesses. I support the great efforts of the Plant City Economic Development Corporation to grow our current businesses and to recruit new high quality employers that offer the best possible opportunities for our citizens.

As we just wrapped up another amazing

That’s always how I evaluate the projects that the City undertakes across all of our departments as I want to make sure we set the highest standards in service to our citizens.

Maintaining the qualities and values of who and what we are is a big part of ensuring our citizens’ welfare for the future. The sense of community we enjoy here is very special. We must make sure that we are always promoting efforts that protect our close-knit, but welcoming community. I want my children and grandchildren to want to continue to call Plant City home and that is always top of mind for me as we make decisions on the City Commission.

5. WHAT DOES TRANSPARENCY IN GOVERNMENT MEAN TO YOU? WILL YOU BE PERSONALLY ACCESSIBLE TO ANSWER QUESTIONS WHILE IN OFFICE?

Transparency in government is very important to ensuring the system serves all citizens in the best possible way. We operate the City in the sunshine and all of our business is conducted in public forums at our commission meetings and workshops. Workshops are how we are able to actually discuss issues that need to be addressed, by taking a deep dive to analyze a situation or a problem, do planning, develop new policies and give direction to staff. This is always done with the public present. Additionally, I believe you don’t just wait for citizens to come and find you or attend meetings at City Hall, but rather that it’s important to show up where they are out in the community. I make a point to attend events and make myself available in a more social environment where it may be easier for someone to express their concerns or share their opinion. I am blessed to have many relationships across all corners of our city, but am always looking for new ways to engage.

In my 30 years of public service, I have made myself available to members of the public and the press at all times of day and night. I have always welcomed input, questions and concerns and will continue to make myself available as I’ve always done.

My cell phone number is 813-927-3211 and I would love to hear from anyone at any time.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Meet Michael S. Sparkman

Meet Jeremy Griner

hour of need. I am forced to consider both sides of every issue and advise my clients as to what position we should take for the best possible outcome. Every day, I weigh risks that impact my clients’ lives. I have a duty to put their interests before my own.

Similarly, as a City Commissioner, I will analyze both sides of every issue and ask myself, “How can we achieve the best outcome for Plant City’s residents?” Even if that decision is adverse to my own interests.

3. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE FACING PLANT CITY?

While there are a number of hot-button issues facing Plant City, in my opinion, growing Plant City’s economy is the most important. We need to keep our dollars in Plant City. We need to stop spending our hard-earned money in Lakeland and Tampa.

My third goal is to prioritize sustainable housing developments that preserve our smalltown charm. Massive growth has come to the Tampa Bay area, and we are located in a strategic place on the I-4 corridor. However, I know when I talk to residents they agree with me that we don’t want to be the next Riverview or Brandon. We want to be very intentional with the types of projects that we permit. I’m also very aware that first time home buyers are having trouble finding homes they can afford. We have to seek solutions to these problems and help Plant City continue to feel like the small town we love.

5. WHAT DOES TRANSPARENCY IN GOVERNMENT MEAN TO YOU? WILL YOU BE PERSONALLY ACCESSIBLE TO ANSWER QUESTIONS WHILE IN OFFICE?

PLANT CITY

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com

StaffWriter / Michelle Caceres michelle@plantcityobserver.com

Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez

Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

1. DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL, EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND.

I grew up just next door to Plant City—in Polk County. I attended Auburndale High School, the University of Florida and Mississippi College School of Law. I practiced law in Tampa for five years before settling in Plant City with my wife, Megan Perry Griner, a local resident and Durant High School graduate. Megan worked as the College and Career Counselor at Durant for years, and she’s currently staying home to raise our girls

We now reside in Walden Lake with our two young daughters. I am a solo practitioner attorney and represent the “little guy” versus giant corporations and insurance companies. I am a member of the Plant City Rotary Club and former Board Member of Plant City Main Street. I am also a former Hillsborough County Schools “Take Stock in Children” Mentor

2. WHY ARE YOU THE BEST CANDIDATE FOR THIS OFFICE?

City Commissioners make tough decisions. My educational and professional background trained me to serve the citizens of Plant City in this role. In my law practice, I make decisions and advise my clients in their greatest

Plant City needs continued economic development. I will work to ensure that it happens by encouraging new businesses to plant their roots in our town, so we can live, work, and play in Plant City.

4. WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE PRIORITIES?

My top priority is intentional growth. We need to keep our community prosperous and financially healthy. However, it doesn’t need to come at the expense of our small-town charm. We need to seek opportunities to grow our economy while keeping our dollars local and in Plant City

Second, I think Plant City has an incredible Parks and Recreation department. I want to continue supporting the work they are doing and prioritize investing more in this arena. Many people move to Plant City because they want a great place to raise their kids. Yet, when they are looking for great parks to take their children to play, they are driving to Lakeland and Tampa. The more we can invest in our children and parents, the stronger we will be. When you drive away for entertainment, you’re also carrying away the dollars you will spend on that cup of coffee before you go, the lunch you grab afterward, and where you shop to run your quick errand.

My definition of transparency in government is simple. First, inform the citizens of the issues before the community. No citizen should be in the dark.  A commissioner needs to listen and be accessible. Second, make decisions that will positively impact and benefit Plant City . Finally, be accountable to the people. Transparency and communication are paramount in my current business. In fact, attorneys can get in serious trouble for ignoring their clients.

I have more than 800 former clients who can tell you that I pride myself on timely communication and accessibility. I’ve had 9 p.m. conference calls with clients who work the night shift as well as 6 a.m. coffee meetings with clients who start the 7 a.m. shift. I’m not a “9-5” guy when it comes to communication. I work around your schedule.

Plant City: If you elect me to your City Commission, I will be ready, willing, and able to discuss the issues impacting you.

I Lead by Listening.

You can learn more at GrinerforPlantCity. com.

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CONTACT US

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PLANT CITY WWII CASUALTY OF WAR RECOGNIZED IN BOOK HONORING MEMORIES OF FALLEN SOLDIERS

HUTTO’S REMAINS ARE BURIED IN A CEMETERY IN THE NETHERLANDS.

Staff ergeant and Plant City native Eldridge Ira Hutto, who served with the Army’s 259th Infantry Regiment, 65th Division, was only 27 years old when he was killed on March 19, 1945 during World War II. While on a reconnaissance mission in Saarlautern, Germany he was severely wounded by machine gun fie but refused medical treatment, continuing to direct his men in their advance. During that mission, Hutto was killed by fragments from an 88mm shell. He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for his actions that day because his devotion to duty reflecs the greatest credit upon himself and his military service.

His nephew, Plant City Farm and Flea Market owner Ferris Waller, has fond memories of his uncle. Waller was seven years old when Hutto was killed in action. “I remember seeing him and my other

uncle off, one on a train and the other one a bus, when I was young,” he said. “I’m probably the last person alive that remembers him because I was the oldest of the grandchildren.”

His most vivid memory of Hutto was him tossing him up in the air and then catching him in his grandfather’s front yard at his home on Terrace Drive. “He was one of my favorite uncles, he was just very jolly and always laughing,” he said.

He also remembers when his aunt (Hutto’s wife), Jeanette Wright Hutto received the telegraph that his uncle had died. “We lived right next door to my aunt and my mom went over and comforted her,” he said.

For Hutto and more than 8,000 other American WWII casualties, Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial in the small Dutch town of Margraten is their final esting place. The names of another 1,722 soldiers are recorded on the Walls of the Missing. The cemetery is one of

26 overseas American cemeteries that are administered by the American Battle Monuments Commission.

While Waller has never visited Hutto’s gravesite, some of Margraten’s residents have adopted the graves of the soldiers, treating them like their own family, regularly bringing flwers to the graves. Yde de Jong’s mother, who lived near the cemetery, took care of Hutto’s grave for more than 60 years until her death. Jong now performs that duty. “It’s comforting to know that his grave is being looked after,” said Waller.

In 2014, volunteers in both Europe and the U.S. collected 8,500 photos that are being displayed on the graves and Walls of the Missing. Now, almost 80 years after his death, a group of volunteers in the Netherlands has created a memorial book, “The Faces of Margraten: They Will Remain Forever Young”, to show appreciation for the sacrifies of soldiers like Hutto, whose story is among the 250 that’ve been in-

cluded in the book.

The book was originally published in Dutch and quickly sold out twice so the authors published an English edition that was presented to officials at the.S. Embassy in the Netherlands on March 3.

“The photos are only on display at the cemetery for a short period of time so we wanted to create a lasting monument in print to these men and women,” the authors of the book, Jori Videc, Sebastiaan Vonk and Arie-Jan Hees, said. “This commemorative book stands as a testament to their service and sacrifie and is not meant to be tucked away on a shelf but deserves a prominent place on anyone’s coffee table, in a classroom, in a library or in a veteran’s post as a daily reminder of those to whom we owe so much.”

Waller hopes to purchase a copy of the book, which is available through the publisher, Amsterdam University Press and at Amazon and Barnes and Noble booksellers.

MICHELLE CACERES

STAFF WRITER

Eldridge Hutto and his mother Gertrude

PLANT CITY

DUCK

or even locally, to participate in our Duck Derby because everything is done online and through Facebook.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, start your ducks!” This may not be the normal statement you hear at the beginning of a race, but that’s what will be said on April fist of this year at the Plant City Main Street’s Downtown Duck Derby.

Plant City Main Street held their fist Duck Derby this past January and it was a great success. “We were lucky enough to get all the ducks and the duck racetrack donated, so we decided to host our fist Duck Derby this past January,” said Plant City Main Street Executive Director, Dawn Hyatt. “We had so much fun, we decided to do it again on April fist.”

By the way, the ducks that race are rubber ducks, not real ducks. “We did have people ask if the duck were real and if they had to feed them or take care of them,” Hyatt said.

The fun part of the Duck Derby is you don’t have to live in Plant City to have a duck in the derby. The way the Duck Derby works is you purchase your duck online through the Plant City Main Street website. “The ducks cost $5 adoption fee each and you can purchase as many ducks as you like because we have 1000 ducks to adopt,” Hyatt said. “Once we have 250 ducks adopted we run the derby. If your duck wins the derby, you win $1000!”

A few days before the derby, duck adopters get an email with their ducks’ numbers. The ducks are then taken to a secret location for the derby. “We live stream the whole derby on our Facebook page, so you can see if your duck wins,” Hyatt said. “That’s the cool thing about our Duck Derby, you don’t have to live in Plant City

Currently, Hyatt and her team have sold more than 50 ducks. “We need to get 250 ducks adopted to host the Duck Derby on April fist,” Hyatt said. “If we can reach our goal or go over it to make the next Duck Derby happen, we would like to make the Duck Derby a quarterly Plant City Main Street event.”

In addition to the Downtown Duck Derby, Plant City Main Street hosts Last Fridays Plant City, Henry’s Hidden Train Hunt and their annual Top Golf Fundraiser.

As a Main Street America Affilie, Plant City Main Street is part of a national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development.

If you would like to learn more about Plant City Main Street or if you would like to adopt a duck or two or three for their upcoming Downtown Duck Derby, you can visit their website at www.plantcitymainstreet.org or call Dawn Hyatt at 813-3588898.

APRIL 1ST 11:00 AM

LIBBY HOPKINS GUEST WRITER

JOHNSON FAMILY TEENS CLAIM FIRST PLACE IN NEIGHBORHOOD VILLAGE CONTESTS

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

The “We Have A Winner” theme at this year’s Florida Strawberry Festival is very fitting or the Johnson family but they don’t have one Neighborhood Village contest winner in the family. They have two winners.

Eighteen-year-old Patrick Johnson won fist place in the Woodworking/ Carving category for a porch swing and his 14-year-old sister Aubrey Johnson won Grand Champion in the Quilts category.

The swing was Johnson’s fist foray into woodworking. Its unique design features a removable split-back design so the backs could be interchangeable, allowing the person swinging to choose which direction they want to face. “My parents redid our back patio and my mom wanted to install a swing but couldn’t decided which way she wanted the swing to face,” he said. “That got me thinking and so I drew it out and realized I could build it.”

Johnson, who doesn’t consider himself a woodworker as much as a designer, didn’t use an autoCAD machine, a 3D design software that makes it easy to visualize the project. He sketched his design on a piece of graph paper.

“I had to make some modifiations as I went along but the finished poduct is

When he finished building the wing, his mom was so impressed she told him he should enter it in the Neighborhood Village contest. “I had absolutely no expectations when I entered, it was really just to see what happens,” he said. “When I found out I won I was superstoked.”

Woodworking/Carving chair Connie Gerbasi and co-chair Ashlynn del Valle were astonished when they saw Johnson’s handiwork. “We were amazed at his skill but also at the clever design, a porch swing where you could sit and face each other while you were swinging was such a fun idea,” said Gerbasi. “Everyone was in awe of the craftsmanship.”

It wasn’t just his craftsmanship judges were in awe of. Aubrey Johnson was thrilled to take home the top prize in the Quilts category. “I was pretty excited when I won,” she said. “The quilt was a gift for my youngest cousin so now it’ll go to her.”

This year’s festival saw almost 700 entries by youth judged, awarded and displayed in the Neighborhood Village contest with more 33 entries in the youth woodworking department.

Johnson hopes to sell his swing, which can be customized to any dimension.

“I can build these in any size,” he said. Email him at pjdesigns04@gmail.com for more information.

As for the swing he entered in the contest? It’s not for sale. It’s already

PATRICK AND AUBREY JOHNSON ARE TWO OF HUNDREDS OF YOUTH WHO DISPLAYED HANDMADE ITEMS IN THE ANNUAL CONTEST.

88TH ANNUAL FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL WRAPS UP

THE FESTIVAL DREW RECORD CROWDS MAKING IT THE MOST SUCCESSFUL IN ITS 88 YEAR HISTORY.

THE 11-DAY EVENT DREW A RECORD-SHATTERING

606,116 VISITORS

As the lights and sounds of the Midway came to an end for the 2023 Florida Strawberry Festival on Sunday, March 12, the memories made on the grounds during the Festival this year continue to echo throughout Plant City. This year’s festival was filled with xciting new attractions (The Berry Big Wheel), livestock shows, live music, a Corvette giveaway to a local resident, copious amounts of fried foods, rides and family fun.

The 11-day event drew a recordshattering 606,116 visitors. Last Saturday’s attendance was 103,000 people, the largest single-day attendance in its history.

“From our festival family to yours, thank you,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis. “We

would not be where we are today without the community’s continued support. The patrons, the vendors, the concessionaires, the sponsors, the volunteers, the workers, the schools, the churches, the businesses, the staff, the board of directors, the maintenance team, the families, the committees, our friends at Belle City Amusements, the Hillsborough County Sheriff s Office and Plant City Police Department and everyone in between who has contributed to this moment, we share this accomplishment with you. We are so blessed!”

The Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Office and the Plant City Police Department, both of whom are contracted to conduct security operations during the event, reported minimal occurrences during the event, said Davis.

Belle City Amusements, Inc., the entertainment company that provides the festival’s rides, reported a

signifiant increase in sales from last year’s festival making this the most attended midway to date.

“This is a huge accomplishment and the staff and I ould like to personally thank our Board of Directors and Associate Directors who work tirelessly, giving of their time and talents to support our event 365 days of the year,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President-Elect Kyle Robinson. “We have some exciting things planned for next year, and we’re already looking forward to BerryFest24.”

The 2024 Florida Strawberry Festival will be held February 29 through March 10.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Florida Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis and President-Elect Kyle Robinson enjoy a concert.

Durant High School FFA won fist place in the festival’s annual exhibit competition.

BLUE THUMB COMPUTER REPAIR REOPENS UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

ANDRE NIEUWENDAM PROMISES HIS CUSTOMERS WILL RECEIVE GREAT SERVICE.

Jessie Frier is a familiar face in Plant City and while Blue Thumb Computer Repair was part of her family’s legacy, it wasn’t her passion. “My ex-husband and I owned the store together and when we separated I took over ownership but am not a computer person,” she said.

She hired a team to run the store while she pursued her true love, art, as an apprentice at Vicious Vanity Ink but the universe had other plans.

“Most of my team found their dream jobs and moved on and there was no way I could stand in the way of their dreams,” she said. “Each of them are super happy doing what they’re supposed to do.”

Frier started looking for a seasoned businessman to buy Blue Thumb and build it back to its former glory. Local real estate developer Allen Barrebbi connected Frier with his friends, Andre Nieuwendam, who was looking for an opportunity to open a business in Plant City. Nieuwendam and Barrebbi purchased the business from Frier and reopened the shop.

“Andre is such a great guy and I feel like the universe is putting everyone where they’re supposed to be at,” said Frier. “I’m excited for Plant City to have Blue Thumb back, its customers are being put in good hands and I can finally beathe a sigh of relief that they’re going to be taken care of.”

Nieuwendam, a former vice president of

technology at American Integrity Insurance and owner of a computer repair shop in Tampa, knows his way around computer hardware and software. He’s been in the technology field sine 1979, when, during a 10-year career in the Army, he worked on a network that would one day become the Internet. When he saw Blue Thumb’s 4.8 rating on Google, he knew he could continue its legacy of providing superior customer service.

“Jessie and her ex-husband built up a highly-rated business with a local following and I hope to keep that tradition going,” said Nieuwendam. “We’re not raising prices.”

Computer technician Rylee Baxter, who’s been working at Blue Thumb for a year, will continue to be a familiar face at the shop.

“We’re really going to put our hearts in this business,” he said. “We’ve taken a leap of faith and pray the Lord will bless us as we continue to carry on the legacy here.”

The shop offers onsite PC and Mac computer repairs, networking and upgrade service to local businesses and home PC users, remote support and hardware recycling.

Blue Thumb Computer Repair, located downtown at 116 West Reynolds Street, is open Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

For more information visit www.bluethumbpc.com or call 813-754-8486.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

SPORTS STRAWBERRY CREST TOPPLES UNDEFEATED LENNARD AT HOME

The Chargers handed the Longhorns their first oss of the season in exciting fashion, running away with an 11-3 win.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Following big road wins over Plant City and Tampa Bay Tech, Strawberry Crest returned home last Thursday as they hosted the undefeated Lennard Longhorns, moving to 5-2 with a decisive 11-3 victory.

With senior UF commit Alex Philpott on the mound for Crest, Lennard opened the game with a base hit to right field, but that would be it for the Longhorns’ offense in the first as catcher Damien Bennett threw behind the runner at first on the next pitch, nabbing him for the first out of the contest by taking advantage of a big secondary lead that was too aggressive for the baserunner to recover from. Philpott followed up Bennett’s big play with a pair of strikeouts to end the first for Lennard. The Chargers then wasted no time jumping out on top as senior Jace Raburn led off the bottom of the frame with a base hit to right, subsequently stealing second before senior slugger Arjun Nimmala reached on a five-pitch walk. In the next at bat, junior Akhil Nimmala lofted a high fly ball to right center and reached safely as the routine pop up fell between the Lennard outfielders. With the bases loaded and no outs, senior Eli Vickers drew a full count and bat-

tled with foul ball after foul ball before eventually drawing a walk that pushed home the first run of the game. Freshman Toby Highsmith then grounded into a fielder’s choice to short, with the Longhorns getting the out at second before conceding another run, and Philpott followed Highsmith’s at bat with a fielder’s choice to shortstop as well, conceding the second out of the inning at second but beating the throw to first as the Chargers’ third run of the inning came across to score.

In the second, Lennard clawed their way back. After a hit by pitch put the Longhorns’ first hitter of the inning aboard, a steal attempt was negated with a rare batter’s interference call on Bennett’s attempted throw to second, leading to the batter being called out at the plate and the runner being sent back to first. A soft fly out to third marked the second out of the inning but Lennard mounted a crucial two-out rally. A passed ball allowed the runner to move into scoring position at second and a walk put runners on first and second. A base hit to right scored the first run of the inning and a huge double to the wall in left pushed two more home as the Longhorns knotted the contest up at 3-3 after two. But that would prove to be the extent of Lennard’s success

at the plate, as the rest of the game was all Crest.

In the bottom of the second, Bennett reached safely as a ground ball off the end of the bat couldn’t be fielded cleanly, moving to second on a bunt from senior RayAllen Vasquez. A walk from Raburn put two runners on for Arjun Nimmala who wasted no time breaking the game open with a massive three-run home run to straight away left field, putting the Charger right back on top with a 6-3 lead. Akhil Nimmala then cracked a hard single to left, followed by a fielder’s choice from Vickers. Highsmith pushed Vickers to third on a base hit and Philpott used his speed to reach safely in the next at bat, forcing a rushed throw on a ground ball to third that pulled the first baseman off the bag and sent Vickers home to extend the Crest lead to 7-3 heading into the third. In the bottom of the third, Crest continued to pile on. After batting around in the second, Bennett once again led off for the Chargers and once again reached safely as a soft fly to shallow right fell between the Longhorns’ first and second basemen. Raburn later reached to give the Chargers runners on first and second with one out. Following a double steal that moved both runners to second and third, Arjun Nimmala was intentionally

walked to load the bases, bringing up Akhil Nimmala who quickly responded with a base hit to left that drove in two more runs and pushed Arjun Nimmala to third. Vickers drove home Arjun Nimmala with a base hit to left and after three, Crest had built a resounding 10-3 lead over a Lennard team that entered the night at 5-0.

Senior Luke Richardson took the mound in the fourth where he turned in a stellar relief appearance that featured 2.2 scoreless innings with three strikeouts and just one run allowed. Crest added one more run in the fifth as Raburn reached on a base hit, moved to second on a passed ball, stole third and scored on yet another passed ball to give Crest the 11-3 lead they would cling to as junior pitcher Brayden Dicerb shut the door with a perfect 1.1 innings of work, retiring all four batters he faced while notching three strikeouts.

SALADINO TOURNAMENT KICKS OFF FOR PLANT CITY AREA TEAMS

Despite a pair of pool play wins for Strawberry Crest and Durant, neither were able to earn spots in Wednesday’s semifinal ound.

Durant, Plant City and Strawberry

Crest baseball all leapt into spring break with Saladino Tournament play opening this past weekend.

The annual Saladino Tournament has brought teams from all across Hillsborough County to compete against one another since 1981, now with a Gold, Silver and Bronze division that features round-robin style pool play before a semifinal round is played on Wednesday, followed by a championship game for each division on Thursday at the University of Tampa.

As a part of the tournament’s Gold Division — the largest division, featuring four separate four-team pools — Durant was placed in Pool B alongside Sickles, Jefferson and Robinson, Strawberry Crest was placed in Pool C alongside Newsome, Bloomingdale and Steinbrenner and Plant City was placed in Pool

D alongside Jesuit, Wharton and Gaither.

After falling 2-1 to Newsome on Saturday, Crest bounced back strong with a 5-2 win over Bloomingdale on Monday and blowout 14-4 win over Steinbrenner on Tuesday.

After falling in their first tournament game with a 9-3 loss to Jesuit on Saturday, Plant City returned with a 4-3 victory over Gaither before losing to Wharton in a 15-7 final on Tuesday.

After a 4-0 loss to Sickles on Saturday, just Durant’s second loss of the season, the Cougars battled back with an 8-1 win over Robinson on Monday and an exciting 4-3 walkoff win in extras against Jefferson on Tuesday.

With Durant acting as the home team, senior Preston Rogers took the mound for the Cougars. Jefferson got the offense rolling quickly with a double to right center, moving the runner to third on a ground out to second and driving him home on a ground out to short — giving the Dragons a 1-0 lead early — before

Rogers ended the inning with his first strikeout of the night. In the bottom of the frame, junior Nick April-Gath led off the inning with a base hit up the middle. A fly out to center marked the first out of the inning, and a fly to shallow left field was somehow tracked down by Jefferson shortstop Cameron Mallo, notching the second out with an unbelievable overthe-shoulder catch before doubling up April-Gath at first as he was hung out to dry between first and second.

Rogers struck out the side in the second and Durant managed to claw their way onto the scoreboard in the bottom half of the inning as senior Jeremy Ortiz opened the frame with a hard ground ball between first and second, reaching safely as he forced the second baseman to make a tough play to his left where he wasn’t able to field the ball cleanly. Ortiz advanced to second on a passed ball and moved to third on a ground out to short before knotting the contest at 1-1 on another passed ball.

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

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

DURANT COMPLETES COMEBACK WIN OVER JEFFERSON

In a game that ultimately took nine innings to find a winne, the Cougars were able to escape with an extra-innings victory.

Rogers worked through the top of the third without issue, notching another strikeout and conceding just one baserunner on a walk before Durant took their first lead of the contest in the bottom half. After a fly out to center, April-Gath reached with a walk and advanced to second on a pickoff throw sent past the first baseman and up the right field line. A strikeout marked the second out of the inning and after moving up to third, April-Gath scored as junior Noah Morales crushed a line drive right at Jefferson’s third baseman that popped off of his glove where he was then unable to recover in time to make the play.

Both teams were held without baserunners in the fourth before Jefferson responded in the top of the fifth. After their first hitter reached on an error, they put another runner on with a hit by pitch. Rogers was able to get the first out of the inning on a breaking ball in the dirt, inducing a swing and a miss for another strikeout, but the loose ball allowed Jefferson’s runners to advance to second and third. A walk loaded the bases and a base hit to left drove home two runs, giving the Dragons a 3-2 lead, but Rogers worked through the rest of the inning without any more damage done.

The Cougars were unable to draw even through the bottom of the fifth and the sixth

and the Cougars brought in sophomore Lonnie Coburn out of the bullpen to take over in relief heading into the top of the seventh, Rogers’ night ending with nine strikeouts over six innings while allowing just two hits, two walks and one earned run. Coburn conceded two walks in the seventh but kept the Dragons from pulling any further ahead with a pair of fly balls and a groundout to bring Durant back into the dugout for their last chance to tie the game. After a fly out to right field left the Cougars with just two outs remaining to complete their comeback attempt, senior Gavin Florio punched a single up the middle to put the tying run on base. Florio advanced to second on a passed ball and junior Pete Oderio drew a walk behind him. A passed ball in the next at bat allowed both runners to advance to second and third before senior Aidan Welsh was then intentionally walked to load the bases and set up a force out at any bag. In a perfect situation for the Dragons, junior Devin Suero was forced to roll over a ground ball right back to the pitcher, allowing Jefferson to get the force out at home for the second out. But with one final chance, April-Gath was able to stay disciplined and draw a walk that pushed the game-tying run across. Jefferson was finally able to induce a fly out to end the frame, avoiding a Durant walk-off victory for the moment, but not before the

damage had been done. Jefferson immediately put a baserunner on in extras as their first hitter in the top of the eighth roped a hard grounder down the third base line, knocked down by a diving Welsh to keep the runner at first, but he was nonetheless able to move into scoring position quickly on a passed ball. Coburn notched a strikeout for the first out of the inning but a base hit to left appeared to give Jefferson their lead back, only for Florio to gather the bouncing base knock and unleash a perfect throw home to catcher Dylan LaPointe, throwing the potential go-ahead run out at the plate. The Dragons’ trail runner advanced to second on Florio’s throw, but advanced no further as Coburn shut down the threat.

Durant was held without a runner in the bottom half of the frame and Coburn added two more strikeouts in the top of the ninth as the Cougars once again built a threat of their own in the bottom half. After a fly out to open the inning, Welsh drew a one-out walk before stealing second and third to put the winning run just 90 feet away. In a long at bat, Suero drew a walk himself and advanced to second on a ground out to third — while Welsh was unable to move home. LaPointe was then intentionally walked and it was ultimately Morales — with two outs and the bases loaded in the game’s second extra inning — who worked the game’s final

at bat to a 3-1 count before drawing a walk and pushing home the game-winning run in walkoff fashion.

Despite both Strawberry Crest and Durant making their way through pool play with two wins, neither were able to come out on top of their pool and subsequently advance to the Gold Division’s semifinal round on Wednesday. With each team guaranteed four games in the tournament, Plant City traveled to Lennard for a battle against the Longhorns on Wednesday night while Strawberry Crest hosted Durant in a Plant City area matchup, with both consolation games being played at 7 p.m.

While all three teams played on Wednesday night, both games concluded after the Plant City Observer had gone to press. Further coverage will be provided.

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

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

“Johnson Barbeque’s Strawberry Brisket Taco, hands down! It’s a staple every year!

I’m already missing it!” - Erica Sent

“Waffle strawberry cheesecake taco from PCHS.” - Brenda Lynn Henderson

“Pickle Barrel’s steak tips and mashed potatoes!!! Amazing!” - Crystal HuntBowman

“East Hillsborough Historical Society’s strawberry shortcake!” - Shirley Dunaway Outen

“Peachey’s pretzel - it was so good!” - Cindy Johnson Marsh

“Peachey’s donuts, the sweetheart donut is the best.” - Sherri Stone

“Johnson’s Strawberry Taco and strawberry cobbler!” - June Dee Dee

“The Piggy Palace Mac Stack was a new eat for us this year but oldie goodies are steak tips with mash, make your own shortcake, and Fiske Fries!” - Carla Ann Hennosy

“Smitty’s corndog, Morgan’s fudge, Peachey’s donuts and Johnson BBQ sandwich - but the first time tying and the best overall was - Johnson’s Berry Brisket Taco (yummy!)” - Lori Kent

“Chicken on a stick!” - Courtney Williams

“Amish donuts and pretzels from Peachey’s.” - Shineta Armour

“Buffalo chicken grills sandwiches!”

“Smitty’s corndog!”

- Shari Escobar

“Bacon dipped chocolate.”

- Danielle Rae

“Island noodles.”

- Latanya Sutton

“Brandon Farms milkshake.

- Stephen Williams

“Smitty’s corndog, Piggy Palace BBQ mac-n-Cheese, Peachey’s pretzel, Henry’s Kettle Corn, Hillsborough Historical Society shortcake, apple fries.” - April Crutchfied Terry

“The strawberries.” - Alison Gonzalez

“St. Clement’s strawberry shortcake.”

- Marilyn Frey

“Cheese nuggets.” - Sam Tindale

“Mac and cheese grilled cheese!”

- Natalia Temple

“Seasoned Green, so incredibly good.”

- Kellie Berry Corry

“Transforming Life shortcake.”

- Bridget Sayers

Group Quit offers free, expert-led in-person or virtual sessions for all Florida residents regardless of insurance status. Upon class completion, participants are eligible for nicotine replacement therapy such as gum, patches or lozenges.**

PlantCityObserver.com

Awilda Davila Hernandez

Awilda Davila Hernandez, 73, of Seffne, Fla., born in Rio Piedras, San Juan, Puerto Rico on Aug. 14, 1949, entered into eternal rest on March 3, 2023.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Alan Wayne Rountree

Alan Wayne Rountree, 66, of Plant City, born on July 1, 1956, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, entered into eternal rest on March 6, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Joanna Clay Drawdy

Joanna Clay Drawdy, 77, of Dover, born on Jan. 15, 1946, in Plant City, entered into eternal rest on March 6, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Robin ‘Pepper’ Dannison

Robin “Pepper” Dannison, 69, of Plant City, born on Nov. 16, 1953, in Piedmont, Ohio, entered into eternal rest on March 8, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Stuart Wayne Umbarger

Stuart Wayne Umbarger, of Lithia, Fla., passed away on March 10, 2023, two days before his 84th birthday.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral. com

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Judith ‘Judy’ Lee Coffee

Judith “Judy” Lee Coffee, 73, of Plant City, born on Nov. 25, 1949, entered into eternal rest on March 11, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com

M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

BEST BET

SATURDAY, MARCH 18

STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN

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

MONDAY, MARCH 20

PLANT CITY GARDEN CLUB MEETING

9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 303 N. Evers St. The Plant City Garden Club will host their monthly meeting at the First United Methodist Church’s Fellowship Hall. There will be a coffee meet and greet at 9:30, followed by a general meeting at 10. March’s meeting will feature guest speakers from the Plant City Solid Waste Department, discussing recycling do's and don'ts. For more information, contact Christy Linke by email at clinke3173@aol.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22

FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY

VETERANS

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served any time in the military, retired or non-retention, and would like to review your benefis please take advantage of free assistance at the Bing House Museum, 205 Allen St., every Wednesday. Walk-ins welcomed or call 813-704-5800 to set a specific tim.

FRIDAY, MARCH 24 - SATURDAY, MARCH 25

NATIVE AMERICAN GATHERING

4 to 10 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m on Saturday at 303 N. Evers St. The Committee on Native American Ministries, Grace United Methodist Church and First United Methodist Church will present the 16th Annual Native American Gathering at the Wesley Centre. Drumming, dancing, singing, flue playing, storytelling, demonstrations, exhibits, vendors, door prizes, a

TILE & GROUT

STEAM CLEANED 50 cents per Sq.Ft.

silent auction and trade blanket food will all be provided and the event will feature guest Jim Sawgrass along with the Sacred Thunder Drum group. All are welcome and encouraged to bring friends and family, as well as chairs for outside events. The event is free with donations accepted. For more information, contact 813-763-3718.

SATURDAY, MARCH 25

DEAN’S RIDE

7:30 a.m. at 5202 Thonotosassa Rd. For the past 10 years, Dean’s Ride has been making a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families. The 2023 Dean’s Ride will be held at Keel Farms, with all proceeds from the event going to the Plant City YMCA and supports programs like LIVESTRONG, a free wellness program for cancer survivors and other programs for their members and the local community. With four different opportunities to participate that include 61-mile, 35-mile, 24-mile and nine-mile cycling distances, the routes will traverse quieter country roads north of Plant City where riders will be able to enjoy the scenic countryside. Pre-ride snacks and refreshments will be available, along with post-ride lunch, music, craft beer and Keel Farms cider for your enjoyment. For more information, or to register, visit www.deansride.raceroster. com.

BLUEGRASS NIGHT WITH REKINDLED BITS OF GRASS

7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Head to Krazy Kup for Bluegrass Night, featuring Central Florida’s own Rekindled Bits of Grass. The band features seasoned musicians performing a blend of tradition-

al Bluegrass, country and Christian/Gospel music. This is surely a show that you won’t want to miss. Rekindled has quickly become a staple in the Bluegrass community over more than nine years together. Their drive and timing are like a well-oiled machine and their blend of voices may even bring you to tears of joy as they deliver the message of life through song. Admission is $15 and can be purchased inhouse or through www.eventbrite.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 26

UNITED FOOD BANK SNEAK PEAK EVENT

2 to 4 p.m. at 702 E. Alsobrook St. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the United Food Bank of Plant City’s Sneak Peak Event that was originally scheduled for Sunday, March 19 has been rescheduled for Sunday, March 26 from 2 to 4 p.m. The event will feature an opportunity to get a fist look at the Food Bank’s brand new building, along with hors d’oeurvres served and public remarks at 3 p.m. RSVP is required prior to attending the event, and it can be done by calling 813-763-4660 or 813-245-2244.

FRIDAY, MARCH 31

LAST FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN

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

SATURDAY, APRIL 1

BLUEGRASS JAM

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS WITH ESTRANGED FAMILY

6:30 to 8 p.m. at 1107 Charlie Griffind. 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 positive inflenced activities to help cope with the situation. PEAK is not appropriate for abusive relationships or mental illness. Meetings are the fist Wednesday of each month at GracePoint Church. For more information, visit www.peaksupportgroup.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

MURDER MYSTERY DINNER

6 p.m. at 1501 N. Alexander St. The Plant City Elks Lodge is inviting you to be their guest to a 1920’s Gangster Weddingthemed murder mystery dinner. Can you figue out who did what? The event will begin at 6 p.m. and entry is $30. For more information or to RSVP, call 813-613-4542.

To have your event included in our calendar, visit the calendar section of our website at www.PlantCityObserver.com

CARPETS

STEAM CLEANED

FORECAST

SUNRISE/SUNSET

MOON PHASES

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

Laura Schmidt took this photo of the sun rising over train tracks in downtown Plant City.

STRAWBERRY