3.19.20 PLCO

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

CITY EMBRACES REORGANIZATION

The City of Plant City has added new positions, reshuffled current staff and rearranged departments thanks to City Manager Bill McDaniel’s “deep dive” into the operations of the government. SEE PAGE 7

CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC CLOSURES AND CITY UPDATES All formal city-sponsored Parks and Recreation programming has been cancelled through May 10 All independent events utilizing City-owned facilities are cancelled through May 10 The Bruton Memorial Library will be closed until April 13 No utility service will be disconnected for nonpayment through April 16 Employees at service windows will limit contact with customers through the use of gloves and glass barriers, where available. Customers who wish to make payments are strongly encouraged to use remote payment options, which are available here.

CareerSource Tampa Bay has closed its Plant City office, 307 N. Michigan Ave. Hillsborough County Tax Collector closed its Plant City office at 1834 James Redman Parkway Hillsborough County has officially canceled all government events and meetings until April 13, including all library events, county parks and recreation facilities, and it has also closed its senior centers.

As the world races to get ahead of the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, businesses are closing, events are rescheduling and people are practicing social distancing.

ON PAGE 3

NEWS BRIEFS

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

CORONAVIRUS

Coronavirus precautions close schools and more Though the coronavirus hasn’t caused extensive problems in Plant City or Hillsborough County at large, Hillsborough County Public Schools announced March 13 that all its schools, as well as all high school sports games and practices, are on pause for the time being.

Area schools are on spring break this week, so HCPS said students and staff will return to school on April 15. Many sports teams did not have games scheduled over the break but, unfortunately for baseball fans, the March 13 order to shut it down immediately meant the 2020 Tony Saladino Baseball Tournament — which was scheduled to begin March 14 and end Wednesday — was canceled.

The Plant City Recreation and Parks Department announced March 11 the annual Dean’s Ride/Bike with the Mayor event has been moved to May 9 and that its scheduled programming and sporting events are canceled through May 10.

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce announced March 13 it’s rescheduled or canceled several events through April 4. Canceled events include the March 21 Strawberry Classic Cruise-In, the March 24 Non-Profit Leadership event, the March 26 Ambassador Lunch and Business

After Hours events, the March 27 Java and Jeans and the April 4 Plant City Bike Fest. Rescheduled events include Capitol Coffee (originally March 25; new date TBD) and the Children’s Golf Classic (originally March 27; will now be held in October). The chamber is “exploring virtual options” for the March 25 Lunch and Learn.

HCSO debuts online citizen reporting Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced Monday it’s implemented a new online citizen reporting feature that anyone age 18 and older can now use for certain situations.

“This system will not only save time and taxpayer dollars, but it will also help us prevent the spread of COVID-19,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “While the system was in the works long before the coronavirus impacted our community, this is an added benefit for our deputies and Hillsborough County residents. It allows deputies to respond to higher priority calls faster and reduces the risk of exposure to deputies and residents for non-critical reports.”

Citizens can file non-emergency reports online at teamhcso.org or through the official HCSO mobile app. Certain calls

made by mobile phone will be determined eligible for online reporting and the HCSO dispatcher will forward callers to their QuickConnect phone number to proceed further online. To be eligible, you must be 18 or older in a non-emergency situation where you are neither in immediate danger nor witnessing a crime in progress.

The following situations qualify for online reporting: • Accident/traffic crash (minor crashes with no injury or impairment) • Conservation violation (illegal dumping with unknown suspects) • Identity theft • Credit card fraud • Immigration scam (fraud or swindle of a victim who is pursuing immigration reclassification) • Lost property (with the exception of firearms) • Registration of golf carts and bicycles • Delayed shoplifting/retail theft (online submission must be able to submit proof of a crime, like video or photos of the event) • Vandalism/graffiti (no known suspects) • Vehicle vandalism (no known suspects) According to HCSO, the feature will save them both time and money. HCSO tested the feature from Jan. 21 through March 7 and found the online system saved 850.5 hours of reporting and $22,680 in deputy reporting costs.

HCSO made a video demonstrating the step-by-step process of online reporting, which can be viewed at youtube.com/watc h?v=T0xBpVAHHwc&feature=youtu.be.

Chronister warns of phishing scams Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister is urging people to stay ready for a possible increase in scams and phishing attempts related in some way to coronavirus.

“Please keep in mind that coronavirus scams and attacks can happen at work or at home, via email, text messaging or even over the phone,” Chronister said. “Don’t fall victim to bad guys playing on your emotions.

Chronister said the public should be wary of messages or phone calls that “communicate a tremendous sense of urgency,” that pressure you to ignore your company’s security policies, that promote “miracle cure” medicines and that pretend to be government officials spurring you to immediate action.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

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CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC RESTAURANTS DOING CURBSIDE/TAKEOUT Thanks to the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s reporting, the following restaurants have officially said they are offering to-go food options as of 3:45 p.m. March 17. Follow the Chamber’s Facebook page at @PlantCityChamber for more up-to-date information.

Maryland Fried Chicken (813) 752-9200 Culver's (813) 707-0800 Charley’s Philly Steaks (813) 652-8123 Graphic: CDC

The coronavirus is past the point of containment, but it is still possible to slow the spread enough for our healthcare system to catch up and manage treatment without hospitals experiencing deadly overload. The “curve” that’s being talked about everywhere shows the difference between what would happen in a pandemic with no intervention versus what can happen if social distancing, self-quarantine and other steps are taken. Thus, “flattening the curve” to slow things down is every affected country’s goal at the moment, if they haven’t already done so.

The spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus is forcing Plant City and others across America to adopt radically different lifestyles in an effort to “flatten the curve” of spread and help prevent major problems to our health, the economy and more.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Much is still in the air regarding the effect of the COVID-19 coronavirus and how it will impact Plant City.

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness and a dry cough. Some patients may also feel aches and pains and have nasal congestion or a sore throat. Not everyone who is infected develops symptoms, so it is crucial that you do your part in isolating and stay on top of your hygiene to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Those who do develop symptoms usually see them appear anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure.

Right now, Plant City appears to be following the guidance of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“The goal of government right now is to speak with one voice and to deliver facts,” Mayor Rick Lott said. “In the county, the Emergency Policy Group that we call the EPG is made up of three mayors — Plant City, Temple Terrace and Tampa — the Sheriff, the Chairman of the School Board, the County Administrator and three county commissioners, including the chairman of the county commission. We have daily phone calls.

We are working on this daily as a group so we have all branches of government in Hillsborough County working together toward a solution. We work with the state and federal authorities to make sure we are delivering a solution that has support locally, from the state and from the government.”

It’s a time of uncertainty, but one thing has remained abundantly clear: it is crucial we flatten the curve. Essentially the concept is that infections will happen, but as long as we can prevent them from all happening at the same time we will be able to stay ahead of it. In less than one month, the global number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 has doubled from approximately 75,000 toward the end of February to more than 153,000 in the middle of March.

With the growing rate of cases, hospitals are beginning to fill to capacity. On top of that, there is a lack of necessary medical resources, which means some people may not be able to get tested even if they want to be.

Isolation is the key to making that happen, so everyone from President Donald Trump to our local elected officials are asking people to remain at home.

Many local businesses have already closed their doors and some have taken precautionary measures and have asked employees to begin working from home.

The virus is spread from person to person “through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales,” according to the World Health Organization.

The best thing you can do is wash your hands and keep your distance from others. It is being recommended that people remain six feet apart whenever possible.

Any restaurant in Hillsborough County must close by 10 p.m. Restaurants can continue to offer food and non-alcoholic beverages for takeout and delivery from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Restaurants are also required to limit their occupancy by 50 percent for on-premise consumption during all hours of operations. DeSantis has mandated that all bars and nightclubs be closed for 30 days.

Any public gathering — whether that’s faith-based events, sports, civic or community events, concerts, etc. — that has more than 50 people gathered in a single space is prohibited. The only exceptions to that rule are venues that provide essential goods or services such as grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, hospitals, banks or credit unions and shelters. Trump has recommended any gathering with more than 10 people also be prohibited, but it is not yet required.

When it comes to Plant City parks, as of press time they are still technically open but the recreation centers themselves are closed and all games have been canceled.

Businesses and organizations throughout the city are taking a heavy hit due to the virus. The United Food Bank of Plant City is in desperate need of help as it seeks to handle the increased demand in the community.

“We are pretty desperate here,” Mary Heysek, director of UFB, said. “This is much different than when we were out for the hurricane. We were asked to expand our kids program as long as the kids are out of school. We have had double the amount of people in this week already. The contents in our kids’ bags have had to be cut in half. The problem is we are receiving 70 percent less food than we usually do.”

The UFB is also operating under increased sanitary requirements and only allows five people in the front office at a time in an effort to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19. They also require people to be one meter apart in the line outside. UFB is seeking donations and is located at 702 E. Alsobrook St. #H, and you can contact them by calling 813-764-0625 for further information.

It’s a situation that is evolving every day.

“City government continues to monitor and take action in accordance with county, state and federal public health recommendations and mandates,” City Manager Bill McDaniel said. “City staff are focused on ensuring we meet the public safety needs of our community, to include police, fire and water/sewer/ solid waste services. Additionally, we have ramped up our internal and external communications to share information as timely as possible. We will continue this posture and these efforts for the duration of this fluid and rapidly evolving incident.”

Lott said at the local level, McDaniel is meeting with leaders of staff every morning to make sure they’re up to date on what needs to be done. Just like when another emergency comes to town, like a hurricane or severe flooding, there are routines in place to make sure the city operates at its highest standard to tackle the changes.

“We have all hands on deck, this is what we are focused on,” Lott said.

“From the standpoint of our community, yes, this is a new threat to our community. But we have had other threats and emergencies before like hurricanes and storms, and we as a city are financially strong, our reserves are strong and we have systems in place and backup plans that ensure we are able to provide the services to our city that we need in these times.”

The City of Plant City is also updating its website daily with information from the community. You can find those updates at bit.ly/2w4Y972. Lott also encouraged all local residents to routinely check in on the state and federal websites as well for up-to-date information and to learn about the support available.

Outback Steakhouse (813) 759-4329 O'Brien’s Irish Pub (813) 764-8818 Strawberry Hut (813) 754-9228 Dairy Queen (Treat) (813) 752-2236 Panera Bread (813) 659-0864 Jersey Mike's Subs (813) 737-7878 Jimmy John's (813) 756-5897 KFC (813) 752-0437 ABC Pizza (813) 752-5146 1916 Irish Pub (813) 756-6504 Carrabba's Italian Grill (813) 752-0760 Duke's Brewhouse (813) 752-2700 Chili's Grill & Bar (813) 764-8548 Snellgroves Restaurant (813) 752-3652 Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant (813) 752-0057 Norma's Plant City Cuban Sandwich Shop (813) 704-6015 IHOP (813) 754-7400 Brick House Cafe (813) 752-8546 Krazy Kup (813) 752-1220 Johnson Barbeque (813) 759-0009 Olde Town Pizzeria (813) 752-5800 Firehouse Subs Plant City (813) 704-4884 Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar (813) 754-8866 The Corner Store (813) 754-0900 Pelican's SnoBalls (813) 759-1975

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

COPS CORNER

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

PLANT CITY

Observer

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigated missing money, a stolen Huffy bike, stolen guns, stolen Jordans

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

and much more.

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editor / Sports Editor / Justin Kline JKline@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez

MARCH 6 NO NEED TO GET HUFFY 600 block of Bethune Drive Bicycle theft: Sometime during the week, an unknown suspect stole a 26-inch orange Huffy brand bicycle from the victim’s back yard.

EYE ON THE PRIZE 1400 block of North Lime Street Vehicle burglary/theft of a firearm: Overnight, an unknown suspect entered an unlocked blue 2017 Dodge Challenger and stole a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber handgun from the front center console.

Hillsborough County warrant for VOP Criminal Mischief (less than $200). He was arrested.

TO GRANDMOTHER’S HOUSE WE GO 700 block of Franklin Street Vehicle theft: Officers met with this victim, who told them she parked a 2008 silver Nissan Altima with a Florida temporary tag at her grandmother’s house at approximately 10 p.m. It was later stolen.

MARCH 9 HAND IN THE CINNAMON TWIST JAR 2100 block of West Baker Street Theft: A manager at Taco Bell reported to police that former employees had stolen money when they were still working at the store. A waiver of prosecution was signed and the incident was documented.

MARCH 10 SHOPPING SPREE 1400 block of Plantation Boulevard Residential burglary: This victim reported to police that an unknown subject entered his apartment between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6:45 a.m. via the screened-in patio and then came in through a sliding glass door. A 65-inch Sony television, Bluetooth speakers, a 14-karat yellow gold woman’s bracelet and a woman’s diamond ring were taken from the apartment.

MAYDAY AT MARSHALLS 200 block of HANGOVER CURE GONE West Alexander Street WRONG Theft: Marshalls Department 1900 block of Store’s loss prevention team James L. Redman Parkway reported that an unknown woman DUI: Officers responded to the took $123 worth of merchandise 1900 block of James L. Redman from the store and then fled the Parkway in regards to a woman scene. being asleep in a drive-thru. She was placed under arrest for DUI and transported to Orient Road WHOOPS-A-DAISY HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT Edited2100

by David 2020block of Jail. block ofSteinberg March 20,1200 North Wheeler Street North Johnson Street 42Vehicle “Now burglary: it’s 9 43,560 38 Many have Felony drug arrest/possession During the MARCH 8ACROSS clear!” square feetof firearm and steeples 1 Gripping ammunition early morning hours of March felon: A man was an unknown suspect NOT YOUR LUCKY DAY 439,*Nissan 10entered “Dunno” by convicted 39 Tyler who device placed under arrest for possession the victim’s unlocked11 vehicle and Turkey Creek Rogue, e.g.

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

STREET PHARMACIST 2700 block of Thonotosassa Road Felony drug (arrest): Officers responded to the above listed location in response to a report of a disturbance. A man was arrested for possession of cocaine, methamphetamine and prescription medications. He was transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

TO ADVERTISE Call (813) 704-6850

Advertising / Richard Brame richard@plantcityobserver.com Advertising / Karen Berry kberry@plantcityobserver.com

MARCH 12

CONTACT US

The Plant City Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The Plant City Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103.

KEEP AN EYE OUT 600 block of Bethune Drive Theft: Officers responded to this house in reference to someone having stolen its security camera.

If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

TIPTOEING IN MY JORDANS 2600 block of Holly Bluff Court Theft: This victim reported that two pairs of Jordan Brand shoes, valued at approximately $400, were stolen.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

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FFA PROGRAMS PRESENT JACKETS TO PC CULVER’S THE RESTAURANT NOW HAS FFA JACKETS FROM FOUR AREA HIGH SCHOOLS ON DISPLAY IN THE LOBBY.

File photos

Photos courtesy of Racquel Sturgis

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The FFA chapters from Simmons Career Center, Durant High School, Plant City High School and Strawberry Crest High School got together March 14 to give Culver’s of Plant City a gift.

Two months after students involved with those chapters assisted the restaurant in its Jan. 11 soft opening, they came to the store before it opened for the day to present owners Scott and T.J. Schwebke with jackets from each of their FFA programs, all framed in shadow boxes. The owners, Strawberry Crest IMPACT teacher Racquel Sturgis and the schools started working on the project back in January.

Each of the four jackets is embroidered with the schools’ chapters’ names on the back.

Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest each have junior chapters as well as senior chapters, and these junior chapters are all named for local farmers who have made a large impact on the Plant City area.

Durant’s chapter is named for J.F. St. Martin, Plant City’s chapter for J.G. Smith and Strawberry Crest’s chapter for Elton Hinton.

“The jackets that were presented have both chapter names embroidered on the back,” Sturgis said. “I thought it was important to recognize not just the high school agriculture program, but these three farmers.”

Culver’s and the FFA have a close partnership that allows the restaurant chain to help chapters nationwide. Locally, that first materialized in the Jan. 11 soft opening when guests were able to make donations to the local FFA chapters at the door. The Schwebkes have also

hosted a “spirit night” event for the Simmons program. Nationally, the restaurant runs a “Thank You Farmers” project that has raised more than $2 million to date for agricultural education programs, an FFA Essay Contest that awards scholarship money to finalists every year and a Blue Jacket Program that gives blue FFA jackets to students who have trouble affording them. You can donate to FFA programs online at ffa.givingfuel. com/culvers.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

FIRST CALL TURNS ONE The church, which is geared toward first responders, celebrated its first anniversary over the weekend with two days of fellowship, song and worship.

Photos courtesy of First Call

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

First Call proved over the weekend that the coronavirus may not be welcome in God’s house, but people certainly are.

The church celebrated its one-year anniversary on March 14 and 15 with a big party featuring live music by the New Floridians, lots of food and encouragement to stay faithful and walk not in fear during this turbulent time in history.

“Especially during the time of the season right now, during this time in our country where so many people are afraid, this is a place of faith — not of fear,” Dr. Daniel Middlebrooks said.

“That’s why we’re going… we keep moving forward and walk by faith, not in fear, because God is the calm in the midst of our chaos.”

The celebration started at 6 p.m.

March 14 and ran until 8 p.m., then picked back up at 10 a.m. Sunday morning with another special service and music. More than 100 people attended the celebrations. At the Sunday morning service, local police, fire

and other agencies were recognized.

Some were also honored with Shield of Excellence awards and thanked for their service to the community.

Formerly Sydney Baptist Church, which opened in 1909, First Call was born out of Middlebrooks’ desire to reach out to a demographic he felt was unintentionally underserved by typical churches: first responders. Because those in the military, police force, fire departments, security and emergency medical services go through things most civilians could never relate to, Middlebrooks felt it important to give them not only somewhere to go, but a place where they have a big, strong network of people who can actually relate to them and their experiences.

The church started with a congregation of 13 and has expanded to around 90, Middlebrooks said. It’s a mix of first responders, their families and supporters.

“The culture here is the fact that these are warriors that are seeking God’s word so that they can be a light of God in the midst of very, very dark places,” Middlebrooks said.

The church and its adjacent office have also become the home base for Chaplaincy Care Inc., which Middle-

brooks launched in 2017 to train those interested in becoming chaplains.

Middlebrooks himself, who served 26 years in the United States Army, is a longtime chaplain and still actively provides his services wherever he’s called upon. The fellowship hall is also a “spiritual substation” for first responders who need a place to go decompress, eat, drink coffee, work remotely, gather supplies to give out as needed or whatever they wish at any time of the day or night.

“Too many times, our men and women have targets on our back,” Middlebrooks said. “We want to provide a safe place for them to be able to come to do their work, to eat and to know that we’re going to take care of them one way or another.”

First Call has plans to expand its programming in marriage enrichment and relationship dynamics, stress management, chaplaincy counseling, a ladies’ ministry and more, as well as to beef up its technology and online presence for greater outreach.

“We’re very thankful for what God has done in the life of First Call in one year,” Middlebrooks said. “I can’t wait to see what He’s about to do in the second.”

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES Sunday Mornings: 9:00 First Fellowship coffee 9:30 Worship 10:30 Light breakfast and connection 11:00 Life Teams Thursday Nights: 6:30 Life Teams (children to youth) 6:30 Worship Visit firstcallsbc.com for more information.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

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CITY EMBRACES REORGANIZATION The City of Plant City has added new positions, reshuffled current staff and rearranged departments thanks to City Manager Bill McDaniel’s “deep dive” into the operations of the government.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Last week, changes in the structure of the City of Plant City continued as several new appointments and promotions officially happened.

When City Manager Bill McDaniel took the reins of the city in 2018, he came on board with one overarching mission: to successfully execute a “deep dive.” It was a lofty goal and one that much of city staff quickly got on board with.

Essentially, McDaniel wanted to spend time combing through every aspect of the city to determine where there was room for improvement, where it excelled and where there were holes that needed filled.

Part of that dive has come with reshuffling. He began by rearranging departments and cleaned up the lines of communication of reporting so there was a more synergetic flow. Certain departments were taken under the wing of the city manager and others were removed and reassigned.

Now the reorganization is continuing.

“I just created a Professional Standards Division and I’ve promoted Tray Towles to director of Professional Standard,” McDaniel said. “It’s very timely and you take what we were talking about with the police department receiving this high level of accreditation — that is professional standard. It is developing written procedures, standard operating procedures for the entire organization so that everything is documented, codified, standardized so everybody knows what to do, how to do it and what is expected of them.”

Towles had been the director of code enforcement and now will have the Community Engagement Center under his leadership to assist him with the process of polishing the city to excellence via its clerical support. He will work closely with McDaniel and then each topic, as it arises, will be managed by Towles, McDaniel and the subject matter’s directors. The assistant city managers will also assist in the review process.

Tina Barber, who has worked with the city as a code enforcement officer, is now the interim director for the department following Towles’ promotion.

McDaniel said the goal in all of

the reshuffling is to raise the bar, to bring the idea and the product of accreditation to the entire organization.

Even in the areas where there is no official accreditation to achieve, he believes having a standardized high level of expectation will create order across the entire operation.

Plant City Fire Rescue is already in the process of working toward accreditation and Assistant City Manager Rick Lilyquist is working on APWA accreditation for engineering, solid waste and stormwater and potentially utilities.

The city has also added a new position in the engineering department to “give more horsepower in development review” since the department handles all the site plans. An Engineer I position was created and filled with a promoted internal candidate, and the city will backfill the Engineering Projects Coordinator Position by that promotion.

“That will give us a little more capacity with our development review because we are getting hit with the volume, the number of projects we are getting, plus the complexity is combining to really start to bog down the system,” McDaniel said.

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McDaniel also added a Capital Improvements Projects Manager in engineering. He said if you broke down all of the projects they were managing and you realized that two project managers were having to juggle that massive volume, it became clear another position was needed.

He admitted adding a third still would probably not fully alleviate the massive load, but it would “divide that workload into manageable chunks.”

An administrative assistant position was also added in the Planning and Zoning Department because some of the city’s highly skilled planners were frequently sitting working the front window to grant fence permits or other mundane applications because there was no one to fill the need.

The simple changes, McDaniel said, will add value to the organization at several different levels and hopefully help bring the city toward the future.

“It’s a tweaking of the dials more than anything,” McDaniel said. “It gives me the ability and the organization the ability to A) keep up with the demands we are getting from the development side, plus I’m also committing to and I’m making more progress on

my Deep Dive to build the organization of the future. You’re not going to get there if you don’t get some of these things standardized.”

File photo

City Manager Bill McDaniel’s “deep dive” continues with organizational changes that should help the City of Plant City work more efficiently.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

PCPD ACHIEVES EXCELSIOR ACCREDITATION Plant City Police Department has successfully competed five prior reaccreditations with no corrective actions or compliance issues, which netted it a high honor from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation.

Breanne Williams

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Plant City Police Department was awarded the excelsior level of accreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation, making it one of only 58 other law enforcement agencies statewide to obtain the status.

Accreditation is awarded during the CFA’s annual business meeting in St. Augustine and this is the fifth time PCPD has successfully completed its reaccreditation with no corrective actions or compliance issues. Once the agency gets its initial accreditation, the reaccreditation process occurs every three years.

“One of the big things I have talked to the city manager with is this is a thing, a process that Bill (McDaniel) was passionate about,” PCPD Chief Ed Duncan said. “And that passion is a legacy and that legacy of excellence, I am here to tell you tonight, continues.”

PCPD was first accredited in 2005 and has accepted the challenge of reaccreditation every three years since. There are approximately 400 law enforcement agen-

cies statewide and PCPD is only one of 59 to have the excelsior status.

Duncan compared the process to someone coming into your home and peeking around in every nook and cranny, evaluating how you run your household. They have keys to everything PCPD has and they comb through it all to ensure the department is operating the way it should be. Though Duncan said it was certainly a challenge, he believes PCPD is doing the right thing welcoming that in-depth evaluation.

“This was a vision from sometime in the early 2000s, around 2003, for the Plant City Police Department to become a fully accredited law enforcement agency,” Duncan said. “And that vision was instituted by then-Police Chief Bill McDaniel. The initial onsite for that review was very comprehensive, as they all have been, but for the first time for our agency to get involved with that it took a monumental amount of work to make sure your policies and standards were all efficient. That began in 2003 and that all came to fruition in 2005 when we got the first accreditation.”

He said the process has only continued to move forward since then and that the

department is growing and evolving every year as standards increase.

Reading comments from the report, Duncan said the people of PCPD are the reason the department is able to go above and beyond every year. Those who work at PCPD are the foundation and he said without them, it would be a very different place.

McDaniel was the police chief who initiated the search for accreditation and now, as city manager, he said he is proud of the department for achieving the excelsior accreditation and continuing to pursue excellence.

“It’s not about us, it’s about the people that make up that department,” McDaniel said. “The consistency that has been through all of this, along with the outstanding men and women that serve this community with the Plant City Police Department, I can tell you and the Chief knows this, but I am so proud of them for achieving this excelsior accreditation.

Because it means that they had those consistent five reaccreditations with no flaws.

It singles them out for the excellent agency they are and I’m proud of each and every one of them.”

Mayor Rick Lott said many on the commission were there when the process started and said they remember how much work goes into the accreditation and the pressure that puts on the department. He said as a commission they want to say “thank you, thank you, thank you.”

“We build parks and we build projects and so forth and we take care of the roads and everything, but when it comes down to the everyday touches with our citizens that give them the comfort of the character of the community we live in, the men and women in blue are really the ones who touch our community more than anyone,” Lott said. “So with the professionalism you have and the desire you have to be perfect, just that desire to be the best, to be perfect, to have no flaws, I think it shows our community that we care and respect them and are doing our best to give them a great and safe place to live. Thank you so much.”

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CITY EXAMINES AFFORDABLE

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

9

HOUSING

The demand for affordable housing is one Hillsborough County can no longer ignore. In a special meeting on March 9, commissioners were updated on the opportunities available.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

As the population of Hillsborough County continues to rise, local governments are faced with an ever rising problem: current housing is inadequate.

There simply aren’t enough homes and apartments in the county to handle the demand of those who wish to call Hillsborough home. A large part of that issue lies in the lack of affordable housing available in the area. It’s a problem the City of Plant City has had in the back of its mind for years now and it appears that action is beginning to take place to start chipping away at the demand.

On March 9, city commissioners met with Affordable Housing Director Cheryl Howell. She spent more than an hour discussing updates on opportunities amiable through federal, state and local funding for both workforce and affordable housing.

Though the presentation itself was not too in-depth, commissioners came loaded with questions to further ascertain what the city’s next move should be.

“What it all comes down to, in my opinion, is it told me I need to talk with them a little bit more,” City Manager Bill McDaniel said. “It was a bit of a broad brush on the

topic, but it had enough information to let us know we need to start acting on this.

Now I want to get more specific and find out what the benefits might be for our city and our community.”

The city has already begun setting the pieces in place to get some action going.

It currently has approximately 20 properties planned for achieving that goal. They opened bids for developers and by the next commission meeting and CRA meeting — or at the very latest, the one following that — we should see some of the contracts come for a vote.

Those 20 properties will be developed for affordable housing, mainly into small homes. The properties were acquired through a variety of means including tax defaults and lien defaults. McDaniel said there were several properties that had “a lot of layers” of relatives, former property owners and other invested parties the city had to comb through to get to finally have the issues resolved. It ended up a complex ordeal, so the city hired outside counsel to manage the process for them.

Because the city was able to obtain them for such a low price, it is in turn able to offer a low cost for interested developers, which will help keep the final cost down to ensure the homes are reasonably priced. All of the

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properties, McDaniel, said are a perfect fit for bringing more affordable housing to the city.

“First and foremost, you have to look at the reality of the lots,” McDaniel said.

“These are smaller lots in older neighborhoods and this is infill-type development.

The character of the lots drives the fact that they are going to be affordable housing lots. Old, typical smaller, narrow lots lend themselves very well to that. The way we acquire them also makes them very attractive to that because they’re very low cost of entry lots, which is critical to helping keep the price of the house down.”

McDaniel added that these aren’t $50,000 or $75,000 lots, so the buyers are entering the agreement at reasonable prices, which helps the affordable housing model.

In fact, it was a topic Howell brought up time and again in her presentation. Cities have to find a way to provide housing without breaking the bank. The issue of affordable housing at its core is not about housing at all, but about people and the community, Howell said. So cities need to find a way to make sure they’re building the communities they want and adding to the character that makes people want to live and spend their lives there.

“Affordable housing is not affordable to build,” Howell said. “We have to look how to do our housing. We have to look at reengineering our efforts to get more for our money. Leveraging our resources to expand our efforts. There are ways to make this work. We have to find them.”

There is also more funding on the table this year than there has been in a very long time. There is $12 million at stake in Hillsborough County, and the City of Plant City technically could work with Howell and her team to come up with projects that address the issue and help facilitate a change in town.

Howell discussed the average salary of residents in the county and pointed out many of the hurdles they face economically when it comes to finding a place to live. The need, following her presentation, was evident and commissioners promised to continue the conversation as quickly as possible so they could come up with projects and attempt to acquire some of that financial assistance from the county.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

POLK COUNTY STING LEADS TO ARREST OF 17 MEN

ACCUSED OF ATTEMPTING TO MEET UP WITH CHILDREN FOR SEX The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 17 men — including one from Plant City — following an undercover operation that targeted men accused of attempting to have sex with children.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

A week-long undercover operation with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office led to 17 men being arrested in a sex sting that focused on those who “prey upon children online.”

PCSO undercover detectives worked from March 10 to 16, posing as young children on social media platforms and online dating sites, to investigate those who “prey upon and travel to meet children for unlawful sexual activity,” according to PCSO. The suspects were communicating with officers they thought were children between the ages of 12 and 14 and soliciting them for sex acts.

Detectives from the DeSoto, Hillsborough, Lake and Osceola Sheriff's Offices, as well as the Tampa and Altamonte Springs Police Departments, also participated in the operation.

“The reason for these operations, as you know, is to round up sexual predators, deviants,“ Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said. “And this is among the most nasty individuals that we’ve ever rounded up.”

PCSO said most of those who interacted with them online showed up to an undercover location in Polk County at separate times to meet up with the children and sexually batter them. According to PCSO, some of the men also transmitted pornographic images and solicited the children online, and they now face charges for that.

The lineup of men arrested range from a Navy veteran from Winter Garden who works for the Disney Vacation Club to an assistant youth soccer coach from Plant City. The oldest arrested suspect is 59 and the youngest is 21.

In total, the 17 arrested suspects are facing a combined 44 felony charges, which

include “traveling to meet a minor for sex, attempted lewd battery, use of a computer to seduce a child, transmission of material harmful to a child, and violation of probation.”

Of those arrested, 28-year-old Jose Salgado was the only one to hail from Plant City. On March 11, he engaged in an online conversation with an undercover detective who was posing as a 13-year-old girl. He asked the “girl” to send him photos of herself and told her things he wanted to do to her sexually when he arrived.

“He said he was OK with her age if she was OK with his,” the PCSO report said.

“He asked for the address to the undercover location and then drove there that evening, where he was arrested without incident.”

Salgado told deputies he was an assistant youth soccer coach and worked as a pest control technician. Salgado was booked into the Polk County Jail and has been charged with one count of Traveling to Meet a Minor For Sex (F-2) and one count Attempted Lewd Battery (F-3).

Some of the other men arrested ranged from a Legoland employee who wanted to “make out and stuff” with a 14-year-old

boy in the bathrooms and areas of the park to a Liberty University student who was in flight school in Lakeland and was engaged in an online conversation with an undercover detective posing as a 12-year-old girl.

When arrested, the Liberty student, 21-year-old Christian Buford, told officers he thought “since he was only going to be receiving oral sex from the girl, he thought it was OK,” according to PCSO. The 17th and final suspect arrested during the investigation, which has been dubbed Operation Guardians of Innocence V, was 50-year-old Joseph Beaman of Ocala. He was arrested on March 17 after engaging in an online conversation with an undercover detective who was posing as a 12-year-old girl. He spent several days chatting with her and telling her the sexual things he wanted to do to her. Detectives obtained a warrant for his arrest and he was taken into custody without incident.

Beaman was charged with one count of Use of Two-Way Communication Device to Commit a Felony (F-3) and one count of Transmission of Material Harmful to a Minor (F-3).

Polk County Sheriff’s Office video

Courtesy of Polk County Sheriff’s Office

Jose Salgado, 28, was arrested March 11 after attempting to solicit who he thought was an underage girl for sex.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2019

11

NEW VIDEO RELEASED

IN PLANT CITY HIT-AND-RUN

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is hoping a surveillance video recently released to the public will help bring them one step closer to solving the investigation regarding the fatal hit-and-run in Plant City on March 1.

A mother and her 5-year-old child were walking along Rogers Road after dark when they were struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. HCSO deputies were called to the scene at 9:23 p.m. and immediately began performing CPR until Hillsborough County Fire Rescue arrived on the scene.

The child was airlifted to Tampa General Hospital and was pronounced dead.

The mother was also injured. The driver of the vehicle that hit the mother and daughter never stopped or attempted to render aid, so HCSO has been on the hunt for weeks attempting to piece the final clues together to close the investigation.

"We want nothing more than to bring closure and justice to the family of the innocent child whose life was taken by a careless driver, but in order to do that, we need the help of our Plant City residents," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "We're asking anyone who may have been in the area of Rogers Road in Plant City the night of the accident to reach out to detectives with any information you may have that could solve this case. No tip is too small or insignificant."

In the days that followed, deputies began looking for the first vehicle of interest, an unknown make, light-colored sedan.

They asked the public for help locating the vehicle as it was in the area at the time of the hit-and-run. At approximately 1:30 a.m. March 2, the car was located by patrol deputies within a mile of the crime scene.

The driver of said vehicle told the officers he had nothing to do with the crash.

The vehicle was processed by HCSO crime scene investigators and, after analy-

sis, the department ultimately ruled it out as a vehicle of interest.

HCSO then identified two additional vehicles of interest for the case at approximately 3 p.m. March 4. Both were seen traveling northbound on Rogers Road during the time of the crash. A red metallic paint chip was found at the scene.

The first vehicle is an unknown make, model or color four-door sedan. The second vehicle is an unknown make, model or color small SUV. Now, more than two weeks after the initial incident, HCSO is releasing new surveillance footage in hopes of identifying another vehicle of interest in the case. The surveillance cameras that were mounted at nearby businesses recorded a car traveling northbound on Rogers Road near the intersection of U.S. 92 in Plant City at approximately 9 p.m. March 1.

The footage still doesn’t identify the color, make or model of the vehicle, but HCSO reminds the public of the metallic red paint chip it found at the scene of the crash.

Deputies have also ruled out another vehicle of interest, so now it’s two down, one to go. They hope the public will be able to shed some insight on this last vehicle.

Video of the vehicle can be found at the HCSO Sheriff YouTube account or at the link: youtube.com/watch?v=RxrkDp2ZW ak&feature=youtu.be.

Anyone who recognizes the vehicle or has information related to this incident is urged to call HCSO at 813-247-8200 or Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-TIPS (8477) to be eligible for a cash reward.

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SPORTS Quick Hits

WILLIAMS NAMED TOP ESPN WR IN CLASS

Alexia Stone was picked to represent Hillsborough County in the Pinellas vs.

Hillsborough all-star girls basketball game.

See Page 13

FHSAA BRACES FOR CORONAVIRUS The statewide governing body of high school sports is preparing to deal with the effects of COVID-19 on the spring sports schedule.

Plant City High School wide receiver Mario Williams continues to make waves in the national recruiting circuit and is now considered one of the best Class of 2021 wideouts in the nation.

Williams has vaulted to the top of ESPN’s 2021 Junior 300 wideouts list with a four-star rating and an overall score of 89. He’s also ranked 17th overall in the ESPN Junior 300 for all positions.

Williams finished last football season with 795 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, and he averaged nearly 30 yards per reception.

WHITE WINS STATE 10 BALL TITLES Misty White/Facebook File photo

Strawberry Crest pitcher Bryan Boully winds up for a pitch against Plant City on Feb. 25.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Trenton White cleaned up at the 2020 Billiards Education Foundation Junior Florida State 10 Ball Championships. White competed in the 16U Boys division and not only placed first in that tournament, but also took home the title of Overall BEF 2020 Junior Florida State 10 Ball Champion.

Hillsborough County Public Schools put a temporary stop to school and sports last week, which means there aren’t going to be any prep sports until at least April 15. For most teams, that means missing several weeks of games not including this week, which was supposed to be spring break anyway.

But spring sports regular seasons are also going to come to an end soon, and another thing that’s unclear is how the coronavirus will affect teams’ ability to qualify for the postseason.

The FHSAA announced last week schools and their districts are to keep following state and local health department advisories when deciding whether they’ll get teams on the field, and that no final decision has been made regarding

upcoming state championship events.

They also released information regarding make-up games, contest requirements and more.

Only schools and school districts, not the FHSAA, can decide whether to let teams play games or even hold practices.

That means HCPS can and will decide when it’s appropriate for Plant City-area teams to get back to normal, though at press time no plans to extend the sports suspension were announced. Schools will have to work together to determine which games will be made up and when that will happen, though not all games come with contractual obligations for both teams to reschedule in the event of a pandemic, a hurricane or any other reason to cancel. If two teams did not draw up a contract for their game and there’s no agreement for a makeup date, the game will get retroactively cut from the schedule and neither team will get a win, loss or forfeit from it.

After that, the FHSAA itself comes into play. The organization did not plan to make any changes to the state series or championship schedules as of press time, though that could be subject to change as time passes and the state of the coronavirus impact is assessed. The current seeding structure for district tournaments and the qualification requirements for the regional rounds are not expected to change.

But missing games could impact teams’ ability to qualify for the playoffs at all, as the FHSAA enforces a minimum contest requirement for postseason eligibility.

On that front, teams that are going to be affected by the minimum contest requirement will have to hope for a successful appeal from their school’s athletic director to the FHSAA.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AS IT DEVELOPS, visit FHSAA.org or follow @FHSAA on Twitter.

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

JUSTIN KLINE

WASH YOUR HANDS AND BE COOL ABOUT THIS

Even though the recent chain reaction of sports shutting down opened a lot of Americans’ eyes to the effects of coronavirus, more people need to get the memo.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

13

JUSTIN KLINE

WASH YOUR HANDS AND BE COOL ABOUT THIS FROM PAGE 12 The thing you learn about sports when you pay attention to them long enough is that they’re a microcosm of society.

Everything that happens in life with education, politics, business and science, to name a few things, happens here. It’s just that when these things happen in sports, you get the added bonus of having to watch athletes do fun stuff for a living.

Of course, it was way easier to watch that fun stuff before the coronavirus spread. Now the pickings are getting much slimmer since a positive test in the NBA started a chain reaction leading to other currently active leagues, tournaments and the like taking action to suspend or outright shut down all operations within a day or so of the Rudy Gobert news breaking.

I’ve been following the news on COVID-19 for most of the year, have seen the social media discourse and have talked to plenty of folks in real life about this virus, especially now that Hillsborough County has reacted by closing schools and stopping events and, most sadly for me, suspending sports. I’ve even been asked if I think the virus is real, though that was exactly a week ago today — which now feels like an eternity ago based on how much things have changed. I’ve heard differing opinions.

On one hand you have people who are treating this extremely seriously, especially now that it’s a certified international pandemic. That’s perfectly fair! It’s better to err on the side of caution, especially with something that’s putting the hurt on entire countries as we speak. We may not know the extent of what the virus is like in America right now since those tests have been pretty hard to come by, but we have to assume the actual numbers are greater than what we do know.

A problem we have in America, though, is that instead of buying all of the food and enough of the other essentials, people have been buying some of the food and all of the toilet paper (but none of the toilet cleaning products, for some reason) to prep for a virus that mainly targets the upper respiratory area. Bless your hearts, this thing’s not gonna turn you into Harry Dunne. Save some TP for the rest of us and buy the things you’ll really need, like soaps, hand sanitizers, disinfectants and whatnot.

On the other hand you have people who think concerns about coronavirus are overblown. It’s still true that the majority of people here who catch it are going to recover, sure. But if you’re calling it completely overblown, especially if you’re calling it a hoax, you’re hurting our odds of getting back to normal sooner than later. It’s probably still going to be spreading next week, though I sincerely hope I’m wrong about that and the virus dies off in hot weather like some others do.

When you’re so determined to windmill dunk on cautious people that you

turn tempting fate into performance art, maybe like Gobert did by touching every microphone or recorder he could find on March 9, you’re being an idiot for three reasons: you’re way more likely to get it, you’re probably going to give it to people close to you and you have a much higher chance of giving it to someone with a much higher risk of dying from it. But I also have to give Gobert credit for publicly recognizing the error of his ways and putting up a pile of his own money to help people during this time. He deserved to get roasted on the Internet when his test news broke and now he deserves to get our support for redeeming himself.

Look at coronavirus this way: it has plenty in common with the flu as far as visible symptoms go, but we know way more about the flu and that’s why no one worries nearly as much about that anymore. It’s more likely to do a number on your lungs than the flu is, and it’s also different enough structurally that everyone medically smarter than me is right to say “stop calling it the flu.” If the flu is a seasoned amateur boxer, the coronavirus is a new pro with a devastating jab.

When you get the flu, you probably don’t want to give it to other people or be in a situation where someone near you might accidentally transmit that sucker to you. Why should we be careless at all with something we know less about right now, especially in the area of treatment?

Why would you call something “fake” just because it hasn’t affected you or anyone in your social bubble yet, even though it’s clearly hitting other places hard? It all strikes me as being irrational.

I don’t want to get sick and neither do you, and I don’t think either of us wants to get sick with something that’s not as preventable as the flu just yet. When they start offering coronavirus shots at your doctor’s office or drug store in a year or so, that’s when we can all afford to chill completely the heck out. Some of you and I may not die from it, but I don’t want someone who is vulnerable to this to catch it and develop more serious health problems. And if we all tried to catch it just to develop immunity for the time being, even with the “quarantine the elderly and immunosuppressed” thing in play, a lot of people could still die. Someone would have to help the quarantined folks get food and supplies and pay bills, after all, so we’d only put them at greater risk.

You may not have to completely shut down your life to get through this thing, but at least following the social distancing recommendations will help. It’s not hard to stay several feet away from people, avoid big groups and stay home more often. Trust me — I’m an introvert. Shutting down all these sports and events goes a long way toward fighting spread.

If your job, the county or the state tells you to stay home for a little while or go

get tested, and you have the ability to do so without wrecking your source(s) of income, just do it. If it makes you feel better, pretend you’re doing what you’d normally do with the flu. I’m glad to see that public schools and restaurants are stepping up to offer meals to food insecure students who are at risk of being hit extra hard over this extra-long spring break they’re on. I’m just hoping that the owners of restaurants, bars, salons and other tip-heavy businesses will step up to the extent of their abilities and help their employees get through this.

The coronavirus panic is hitting a lot of small businesses hard and there are plenty of employees out there at companies of all sizes who will have a hard time paying for their healthcare and other bills if they’re not making any money. Over the weekend, I talked to a friend of mine who works two hospitality jobs in Tampa and she said she was scared of what a complete shutdown could do to her life, as neither of her jobs allow her to work from home or give her health insurance.

A few days later, Governor Ron DeSantis announced bars and nightclubs were to close for a month. There are people like her in Plant City, too, and you probably know some of them.

It’s not fair to throw people in situations like that under the bus because they didn’t or couldn’t choose to work a 9-to-5 with insurance and paid sick leave. America depends on the working class. If there’s any way you can support these people while protecting yourself — be it through online ordering of their goods or food, buying gift cards now to use later, getting take-out or whatever options are available to put some money in their pockets — please do it. If we all want Plant City to thrive, we have to find ways to help small businesses and their employees get through this thing without drastically increasing the risk of catching the virus.

So the actual worst thing about sports leagues shutting down or reducing operations is that arena vendors and workers are going to take a big hit financially. If you know anyone like that and know of some work opportunities they can have while they wait for things to go back to normal, please hook them up. Shout-out to all the pro athletes who have stepped up to help arena workers by kicking some cash their way during this time while many of the billionaire owners are taking a more Darwinist approach to this thing.

These sports teams, schools and other organizations are well within their rights to suspend or shut things down as a precautionary measure. Have you ever used the men’s room at a pro or college football game? It’s already a breeding ground for things you’re better off not thinking about in a normal year. I’m good with teams that try and put coronavirus into the world’s largest petri dishes right now.

So if it takes a month or two to get on the better side of a flattened curve and keep many more people from getting sick, so be it. You can still watch any games without fans on TV, online or at your preferred chicken wings and beer joint.

You can get a refund for those courtside seats you bought or at least get credits to go to a future game, and if not then you might even be able to force their hand by lawyering up. If your biggest complaint as a fan (or even an athlete) is that the atmosphere of an empty stadium completely ruins the whole thing before you even start watching or playing, you have a very charmed life and should save some of that good luck for the rest of us.

And don’t get me wrong here just because I may not agree with some of you or your crazy conspiracy posts on Facebook: I’m bummed out about this. All of the journalists are bummed out about this. I hope no one really thinks legitimate reporters local and national have been pushing this thing so hard just to scare people, because we’re not. I don’t like having virtually all of my sports coverage taken away for at least a month, and I’m not even one of the journos who depends on freelance work to make a living. I was looking forward to the Saladino Tournament just like a lot of you, and I especially feel for all the seniors out there who won’t get another shot to win the trophy.

I love so many things I can’t watch live right now while we wait for leagues and the NCAA to give the all-clear, and that won’t even bring back my beloved March Madness. I was really looking forward to making another terrible bracket! At least we can watch all the young NBA players streaming their video games on Twitch, I guess?

But if all this preventative action means we have a way better shot at containing this fast-spreading virus we need to learn more about, then so be it. Going the extra mile to keep too many people from getting sick is not the end of the world, just a temporary setback we need to keep calm about and stay ready for. If for some reason medical experts around the world are wrong and this doesn’t end up being as big a deal for America as it’s been elsewhere, then at least we tried to be safe when we could have been very sorry.

Wash your hands and be cool about this.

We’ll get our sports — and our lives — back.

Justin Kline is the Sports Editor at the Plant City Observer.

Email: jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

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Though Plant City parks are open, previously scheduled events and programs through early May are no longer happening.

Stone

Know someone who deserves an Athlete of the Week feature? Email Justin Kline at JKline@plantcityobserver.com by the Friday before the next issue.

Alexia Stone spent four years on Plant City High School’s varsity girls basketball team and ended her career this winter as one of the most prolific scorers in program history with 866 total points. She made back-to-back appearances on the All-Western Conference second team this year and in 2018-19, and was also selected for the Hillsborough side of the annual Pinellas vs. Hillsborough all-star game that was scheduled for last Friday.

FROM PAGE 12

The Pinellas vs. Hillsborough game didn’t happen as planned, so what’s your next move?

SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The Plant City Recreation and Parks Department announced Monday the suspension of all formal activities for eight weeks.

The department canceled all events that were scheduled to use its parks and facilities from this past Monday through May 10. On the sports side, that impacted the NCBA/NCSA Spring Training Showcases, youth baseball, soccer and football tournaments, adult soccer leagues and Tennis Center programming. Plant City Little League had already postponed its season through April 6, but the league will now have to suspend activities further.

Other canceled events include the city’s after-school program, Spring Break Day Camp, the annual City-Wide Easter Egg Hunt, all recreation center program-

ming, pavilion rentals and rec center rentals.

“Our schedule of upcoming events has been impacted by the CDC guidelines recommending cancelation of activities or events with 50 or more participants or attendees for a period of eight weeks,” the department said in a press release. “We are following CDC, Florida Department of Health and Hillsborough County Health Department directives.”

Though events and programming are on hold for the next eight weeks, as of press time PCRPD will keep the parks themselves open for public use.

The annual Plant City Summer Program (June 8-July 31) does not appear to be affected at this time, but the PCRPD is monitoring the coronavirus situation closely and will cancel the program only if absolutely necessary.

My next move is to wait til whenever all this craziness passes by, play in that game and of course I’m outside shooting, practicing by myself, whatever I can. I can practice outside or in my garage, play in my neighborhood with whoever’s outside.

What are your college plans?

I am going to HCC for two years and then I am transferring to USF. My major would be in sports medicine. After that, I’d go into the school of sports medicine and go for being an athletic trainer, physical therapist or sports medicine physician.

How long have you been playing basketball and what made you stick with it for so long?

About nine years. The reason I’ve stuck with it was because it’s something I love doing and it all began with going to the Y and shooting the ball, not knowing anything about the sport. I would watch Space Jam before every game. The connection with my teammates kept me with it, too.

What was your favorite thing about the PCHS teams you were on?

How young the girls are and how I can see how their skill levels will change drastically from freshman to senior level. It’s watching them grow and get better and it’s something I feel good about because I was there to help them, too. There was always a connection with those girls.

What will you miss most about high school basketball?

Game days. I’m ready to go. Practices, I’m there to get better with my teammates. It’s about all of us getting good together. Even though some were hard, we were all there to encourage each other.

What’s some advice you’d give to the next generation of high school players?

To always have fun with the sport. If you take it serious, be serious but also try to have fun with it. It’s only four years you’re playing and they can go by quickly. Have fun, make friendships and stay close to those girls when you graduate.

Photo courtesy of Russell Stone

Looking back at high school, what was your favorite game you ever played in?

I would say the game against Durant my senior night. It was like something

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no one had ever seen. I was just playing basketball and I didn’t think of anything else, I would just do whatever I knew how to do and it was fun. It was important to me.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

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SPORTS SCORES AND MORE

EDITOR’S NOTE

BASEBALL

SOFTBALL

The spread of coronavirus around the country has prompted action from state officials to postpone sporting events and large gatherings. High school sports were postponed through April 15 at press time but, as you know, this situation has been extremely fluid and there is a chance it could extend even further through the end of the school year, which may have even happened after press time.

But let’s be optimistic for a minute. There is a chance high school sports will be back in some capacity after April 15, so we decided to run a schedule of events originally planned to start after the mandatory period of closure. Keep these games in mind if it all works out and you need to get your prep sports fix sooner than later.

Also be aware that some games affected by Governor Ron DeSantis’s order may be rescheduled, though it’s impossible to know which games qualify and when they would move to until the governor gives schools the all-clear. Should that happen, we will provide an updated list in April with everything that’s getting a make-up date.

As reported on page 12, the FHSAA has not taken any actions toward canceling or moving the state championship series for any spring sports.

Should that change, you’ll hear from us again.

APRIL 16

APRIL 16

Durant at Gaither, 7 p.m.

Bloomingdale at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

Durant at Gaither, 7 p.m.

Plant City at Robinson, 7 p.m.

Newsome at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

APRIL 17 Plant City at Riverview, 7 p.m.

APRIL 21 Robinson at Durant, 7 p.m.

Sickles at Plant City, 7 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Plant, 7 p.m.

APRIL 23 Durant at Jefferson, 7 p.m.

Spoto at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

Regional finals

Robinson at Durant, 7 p.m.

Sickles at Plant City, 7 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Plant, 7 p.m.

Districts at Spoto

APRIL 23 Spoto at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

APRIL 24

Regionals at Charlotte HS

APRIL 21

MAY 15

Regionals through April 23

State finals through May 16 at the University of Florida

APRIL 27

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Districts through May 1

APRIL 27

MAY 8

Districts through May 1

Regional quarterfinals

MAY 6

Newsome at Durant, 7 p.m.

Spoto at Plant City, 7 p.m.

Brandon at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

MAY 12

Regional quarterfinals

APRIL 20

Regional semifinals

MAY 12

MAY 16

Regional semifinals

District tournament through April 25

Regional finals

MAY 15

MAY 20

Regional finals

APRIL 16

Districts through April 24 APRIL 29 Regional semifinals

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19 , 2020

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

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After the city announced Midtown plans are back to square one, readers had plenty to say.

“My opinion, for what it’s worth, is that PC NEEDS to overhaul their liquor laws.

Thriving downtown areas do not exist in the presence of tight liquor restrictions. Once that occurs, downtown will attract the businesses and consumers it needs in order to develop and grow.”

— Melissa Diaz

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2XS Development, LLC, is no longer working on Plant City’s Midtown project after dissolving its partnership. Facebook users sounded off in the comments on our post titled “Back to square one for Midtown.”

“2XS started their fantasy 2 years ago by proposing a plan to redevelop Walden lake’s golf course....that was all BS, yet the City hired them anyway..no surprise here that it crashed and burned”

“This was a poor decision from day one. A local company would have been a much better option. A team that has history and interest in the area. A team that has experience in redevelopment and new development. I saw nothing presented that was overly impressive and that I haven’t seen before. I know because this is what I do.”

— Tracey Schneider

“I have never been a fan of this bid anyway. They spent zero money showing what they were actually going to do, just a lot of flash that felt BS and they wanted all the parcels, yet only “promised” to develop and wait and see. I’d do it differently if I had any say.”

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Doris Genie Salter

earned several blue ribbons for Harold E. Landwehr both her crafts and baked goods at the Florida State Fair and StrawHarold E. Landwehr, 95, passed berry Festival and she would often away peacefully March 7, 2020 stop by the Family Care Pharmacy at his home in Lakeland. He was to bless the employees with fresh born in St. Cloud, Minnesota on doughnuts and her warm heart.

Aug. 20, 1924.

She also enjoyed bingo, morning Harold served in the Navy durcoffee, traveling and her beloved ing World War II. University of South Florida’s Interment will be in Florida Women’s Basketball Team (the National Cemetery in Bushnell, HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM team has lost one of their biggest Florida. fans).

Condolences may be offered at HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM In her local residential comwww.wellsmemorial.com for the David C Double munity, she volunteered on Landwehr family. we’re dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ RE P RO U D TO the S E RV E our community unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. kitchen committee and served as David C Double, 91, of Lakecelebrates the life it represents.

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Indiana. sister, aunt, and best friend supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. celebrates the life it represents.

As your Dignity Memorial professionals, missed by many people.

Fond memories and exprespassed away at the age of 81.

Merced Chavez, 84, of Plant > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability Many thanks to all who touched sions of >sympathy be She was predeceased by her City, born on Sept. >24, 1935 inTravel Assistance Bereavement The Compassionmay Helpline® shared at www.WellsMemorial. husband, William Ciganik; brother, her life, including the staff at FamMexico, entered into eternal R com for the Double family.

Jerry McMeeken; brother-in-law, ily Care Pharmacy, Health Solurest on March 12, 2020.

WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. tions Wellness Center, Conviva John; sister-in-laws, Margie and Expressions of condolence at Wells MeMorial & event Center Care, South Florida Baptist HospiLily and their spouses.

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PlanT CiTy She is survived by her daughter, tal, and Solaris Healthcare.

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Karen lived on her own terms and best friend, Pamela Ciganik; WELLSMEMORIAL.COM brother, Jim McMeeken (Becky); and left her on her own terms, sister –in-laws, Mary McMeeken, always thinking of others first.

Wells MeMorial & event Center Elijah HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM PlanT CiTy Memorials and contributions can Carol McMeeken, and Maryann 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com James Rogers we’re to helpingof families create a W E ’ R E P Jerry R O U D TO Ciganik S E RV E our community be made todedicated a charity your choice Bies; brother-in-law, unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. in honorcelebrates of Karen.

Elijah James Rogers, 5, of Plant (Sharon Hamblin); the life it represents.

As yourand Dignityawesome Memorial professionals, Robert Roy Jackson City, passed away on Sunday, cousins, fantastic nieces memories and condolenc> 100% and Service GuaranteeFond > National Plan Transferability > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® es may be offered at www.wellsmenephews, stepchildren and dear Robert Roy Jackson, 60, of Dover, March 1, 2020. Elijah was morial.com. friends. born Dec. 2, 2014 in Brandon, went home to be with the Lord R supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival.

Karen found numerousProudly friendon March 10, 2020. Rob was born Florida. ships and enjoyed teaching crafts Services were held on Satin Alamogordo, New Mexico, on and giving those things that urday,we’re March 14, 2020 at create Wells June 9, 1959. WE’ RE PR O UD TO SE RV E our community dedicated to helping families a unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. she created away to others. She Memorial Funeral Home.

ExpressionsAs of condolence at celebrates the life it represents. your Dignity Memorial professionals, WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Fond memories and expresHopewellFuneral.com. > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability > The Compassion may Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance sions of sympathy be Wells MeMorial & event Center shared Rat www.WellsMemorial.

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813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Bruce A. Brigham, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Doris Genie Salter, 65, of Plant US Army, 97, of Lakeland, entered City, born on Jan. 24, 1955, eninto eternal rest on March 10, tered into eternal rest on March 2020.

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Taking care of each other is what

community

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17

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

is all about.

OBITUARIES

Bruce A. Brigham

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Terry E. Moore

Taking care of62, of Dover, Terry E. Moore, on Saturday March 7, each passed otheraway is what 2020. Terry was born July 16, 1957 community in Tampa.

He was a veteran of the United is all about.

States Air Force.

Fond memories and expressions we’re dedicated families create P R OU D TO S E RV E our community of sympathy mayto helping be shared ata unique and meaningful memorial that truly ersonal, compassionate care since 1896. www.WellsMemorial.com celebrates the life it represents. for the r Dignity Memorial professionals, > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability Moore family. ®

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

10/27/15 10:42 AM

Taking Dover, care passedof away on Thursday March 12, 2020. Richard each was other is what born Dec. 22, 1954 in Dover,

YOUR CALENDAR

18

BEST BET EVERY DAY STAY HOME

This should go without saying, but in this time of uncertainty, the best thing you can do for not only your health, but the health of those around you, is to stay home as much as possible. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is still much to learn abut COVID-19 including how it spreads, the intricacies of the illness it can cause and the rate at which it will spread throughout the nation. Currently, the virus is thought to spread mainly from person to person and everyone is advised to stay at least six feet away from one another as much as possible. It is also spread through “respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes,” according to the CDC. It is not impossible to spread the virus without having shown any symptoms. Even if you are not worried about getting sick, isolate as much as you can. Your health is not the only one at stake and others may not recover if they become infected.

community Delaware.

He was a veteran of the United isStates all about.

Army.

Due to the spread of COVID-19, or the coronavirus, many events around town we take pride in featuring each week in our local calendar have been postponed or canceled. The community has been asked to step up, take the necessary precautions and isolate themselves as much as possible as part of mitigation efforts in response to the coronavirus.

Every week, the Plant City Observer runs a calendar of community events based off of items that have been submitted to the newspaper. Many are listed as “continuing” and we do our best to ensure they go in week after week. Unless we have been contacted by the event’s facilitators, we have left

Fond memories and expressions ofwe’re sympathy mayfamilies be shared dedicated to helping create a P R OU D TO S E RV E our community unique and meaningful memorial thatfor truly ersonal, compassionate care since 1896. at www.WellsMemorial.com celebrates the life it represents. r Dignity Memorial professionals, the Elliott family. > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability ®

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cate Bridge game, the most widely used variation of contract bridge in club and tournament play. Contact Walt Arnold at 813-752-1602 for more information.

AMVETS POST 44 FRIDAY NIGHT DINNERS THURSDAY, MARCH 19 PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS

7:30 to 9 a.m. Plant City Toastmasters meets every Thursday morning at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St.

FRIDAY, MARCH 20 BREAKFAST AND BUILD

10 a.m. Brick City Bricks, 107 E. Reynolds St., hosts a special Spring Break Breakfast and Build. The $10 ticket includes the build, doughnuts and drinks. Please direct message Brick City Bricks on Facebook with how many children you plan to bring and their names to reserve spots on the select days.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE

1 p.m. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 302 Carey St., is now hosting a weekly Dupli-

6 p.m. The AmVets Post 44, 5521 FL-60, Plant City, FL 33567, is hosting a weekly dinner on Friday nights. The third Friday of every month is a menu of pork chops and sides for $8. For more information visit amvetspost44.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 UNWINED YOGA

9 to 10 a.m. Join The Koa Yoga Studio at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road, for a monthly All Levels Yoga Flow.

Enjoy your practice among the Grape vines. The Koa Yoga Studio will be guiding a monthly 60 minute yoga practice at this beautiful location. Join us and enjoy some fresh air during your Flow and Wine after.

The cost is $10 to Drop In and obtain one drink voucher. Preregister at www.thekoayoga.com.

PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE

6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Plant City Social Dance will have dance at Strawberry Square Dance Center. This will be social dancing on a 3,000 square-foot floating wood floor. Social dancing includes slow dances, waltzes, line dances, cha-cha and rumbas, two-step and country slow, swing, free style and some Latin dances.Cost is $6.

Visit strawberrysquaredancing.com for more information.

PIXAR TRIVIA NIGHT

8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Join your fellow Pixar fans and show off your trivia knowledge in the Loft at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. All ages are welcome and everyone can play. This event is free and open to the entire public.

MONDAY, MARCH 23 PLANT CITY DAYBREAK ROTARY CLUB

7 to 8 a.m. The Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club holds a meeting every Monday morning. Now the group will be meeting in the Community Meeting Room of the Plant City Family YMCA, 1507 YMCA Place.

Guests are welcome.

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these “continuing” items in this week’s schedule.

However, everything is subject to change. President Donald Trump has advised no one attend any social function, workplace event or gathering that has more than 10 people. Other leaders are recommending similar precautions but have kept the ideal number at approximately 50 people.

As of press time, these are the events that have still been sent to the Plant City Observer without any notice of change.

If you plan to attend anything listed, please head to the event’s social media or contact the organizer of the event to ensure it is still going on.

TUESDAY, MARCH 24 SHUFFLEBOARD CLUB

9 a.m. Come on out to the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St., each Tuesday to play Shuffleboard. You’ll be an expert in no time. The club is hosted by Anita Balch and she can be contacted at 808-722-5821 for more information.

THURSDAY, MARCH 26 PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS

7:30 to 9 a.m. Plant City Toastmasters meets every Thursday morning at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St.

JUKEBOX BINGO COMES TO KEEL

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Keel & Curley Winery at Keel Farms, 5210 Thonotosassa Road, is offering a bingo night just like your grandma’s bingo, “just way cooler.” Every other Thursday, they will play your favorite tunes from many different genres. Come sing along, play bingo and win prizes.

Universal Crossword Edited by David Steinberg March 19, 2020 PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

I LOVE PLANT CITY

3/19

FORECAST THURSDAY, MARCH 19

24 Ski resort southwest of Vail 27 Clip wool from (4 to 7) 32 Ankle-bone-related 34 What’s found in mines and many crossword grids 35 Light lingerie shade 36 The Equality State, briefly 37 Shakespearean or Spenserian poems 40 Kool-___ 41 “By yesterday!”

43 Fawn’s mom 44 Hallowed 46 Fishing poles (3 to 7) 49 With great passion 50 Gotten a glimpse of

51 Radiate 53 People managers 56 Bottled water brand 60 How a candidate may look after a debate?

61 Doled (out) (1 to 4) 62 Intense attack on a fort, say 63 Budget entry 64 Come back, like sound 65 Wished 66 Many: Prefix 67 Not that!

DOWN 1 Bread dipped in hummus 2 ___-Eaters 3 Wear a hangdog expression

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Mar. 19

7:33a

7:39p

Friday, Mar. 20

7:32a

7:40p

Saturday, Mar. 21

7:30a

7:41p

Sunday, Mar. 22

7:29a

7:41p

FRIDAY, MARCH 20

Monday, Mar. 23

7:28a

7:42p

Tuesday, Mar. 24

7:27a

7:42p

Wednesday, Mar. 25

7:26a

7:43p

High: 89 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 10%

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 High: 89 Low: 64 Chance of rain:10%

SUNDAY, MARCH 22 High: 89 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 20%

STRAWBERRY Shipping point: Central Florida $12.90-$16.90

4 Gratifies 5 “Meh” gesture 6 Line dances with kicks 7 Real Simple finds new ones for old things 8 Sea, in Martinique 9 Figure skater Baiul 10 Hot dog preservative 11 Problem with fishnets or a fishing net 12 Falco of “Tommy” 13 Soaks up some sun 18 Venues with many seats 21 European bathroom fixtures 23 Nothing more than 24 Fighting 25 Decision-maker’s power 26 Type of golf tourney 28 Refined, as skills 29 Paper-saving greeting 30 1989 Disney princess 31 Far from pasty 33 Skiers’ accommodations 38 Halfway through a day 39 “Green Eggs and Ham” nickname 42 Rite of ___ 45 The fog comes on little ones, in a Sandburg poem 47 Required 48 “Frozen II” or “Toy Story 4” 52 Charmin’ costume?

53 Big do 54 Akron’s state 55 Flow slowly 56 Low female voice 57 Benadryl target 58 Classic soda 59 Big fusses 61 One of 21 on a die

19

SUNRISE/SUNSET

High: 89 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 10%

Forbidden Fruit by Helen T. Verongos

ACROSS 1 “___ and Circumstance” 5 What jam makers skim 9 Initial stage 14 Revered celebrity 15 Garden tool on a reel, often 16 Sorta 17 Printer powder (hint: ignore letters 3 to 6) 19 “Razors pain you ...

Acids ___ you” (Dorothy Parker) 20 Movable floor coverings 21 Enters aggressively, with “in” 22 Sonic’s creator 23 Cooper automaker

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Mar. 23 New

Mar. 28 First

Apr. 7 Full

Mar. 19 Last

RAINFALL Monday, March 9

0.00

Tuesday, March 10 0.00 Wednesday, March 11

0.00

Thursday, March 12 0.00 0.00

Friday, March 13

Saturday, March 14 0.00 Sunday, March 15

0.00

YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2020 02.47 in.

2020 0.01 in.

2019 03.61 in.

2019 0.81 in.

WEATHER

10 Hot dog 33 Skiers’ ACROSS 41 “By preservative accommo1 “___ and Ciryesterday!”

11 Problem dations cumstance” 43 Fawn’s mom with fishnets 38 Halfway 5 What jam 44 Hallowed or a through makers skim 46 Fishing fishing a day 9 Initial stagesubmissionspoles (3 to 7)Editor Justin Send your photo to Associate Kline net at jkline@PlantCityObserver.com 12 Falco of 39 “Green Eggs 14 Revered 49 With great or hashtag #iloveplantcity onpassion Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

“Tommy” celebrity and Ham” 13 Soaks up 15 Garden tool nickname 50 Gotten a some sun on a reel, 42 Rite of ___ glimpse of 18 Venues with often 45 The fog 51 Radiate many seats 16 Sorta comes on 53 People 21 European 17 Printer little ones, in managers bathroom powder (hint: 56 Bottled a Sandburg fixtures ignore letters poem water brand 23 Nothing 3 to 6) 47 Required 60 How a more than 19 “Razors pain 48 “Frozen II” or candidate 24 Fighting “Toy Story 4” you ... Acids may look 25 Decision52 Charmin’ ___ you” after a maker’s costume?

(Dorothy debate? power 53 Big do Parker) 61 Doled (out) 26 Type of golf 20 Movable floor 54 Akron’s state (1 to 4) tourney coverings 55 Flow slowly 62 Intense 28 Refined, 56 Low female 21 Enters attack on a as skills voice aggressively, fort, say 29 Paper-saving 57 Benadryl with “in” 63 Budget entry greeting 22 Sonic’s target 64 Come back, 30 1989 Disney creator 58 Classic soda like sound princess 23 Cooper 59 Big fusses 65 Wished 31 Far from automaker 61 One of 21 66 Many: Prefix pasty 24 Ski resort on a die 67 Not that! southwest DOWN of Vail 1 Bread PREVIOUS PUZZLE ANSWER 27 Clip wool dipped in from 7) the end ofhummus As the sun(4 setto near the Florida Strawberry Festival, Bette Guarino got a good view of 32 Ankle-bone2 ___-Eaters the scene near the midway. related 3 Wear a us on social media: @PCObserver on Instgram, ON L I N E Follow 34 What’s hangdog @PlantObserver on Twitter and Plant City Observer found in expression on4Facebook. mines and Gratifies many 5 “Meh” crossword gesture grids 6 Line dances 35 Light lingerie with kicks shade 7 Real Simple 36 The Equality finds new State, briefly ones for old 37 Shakethings spearean or 8 Sea, in Spenserian Martinique poems 9 Figure skater 3/18 © 2020 Andrews McMeel Universal www.upuzzles.com 40 Kool-___ Baiul

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

PlantCityObserver.com