3.31.22 PLCO by Plant City Observer

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VOLUME 6, NO. 190

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THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

A STEP CLOSER TO BUILDING RESIDENCES OFF REDMAN PKWY THE CITY COMMISSION PASSED A PLAN TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE NEW DEVELOPMENT BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

The Plant City City Commission approved the request to rezone property that will be used as residential space, on Monday. The property will be located off James L. Redman Parkway, just south of Sparkman Road and north of Trapnell Road. It is within the Mixed-U se Gateway district which was analyzed by the city commission at a workshop, held on March 14.

During that evening, the city commission addressed concerns and offered suggestions for the plan. The rezoned property is approximately 45 acres with 68% of it set aside for residential use and 32% for civic/park use that will be along Redman Parkway. The park alone will make up 14 acres of land and the residential area making up approximately 31 acres.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

JULIE GARRETSON

Photos courtesy of Julie Garretson

NAMED NEW DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION

The appointment comes following former director Jack Holland’s move to Assistant City Manager. TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

Julie Garretson has been named Plant City’s newest Director of Parks & Recreation, following former director Jack Holland who had previously served in the role since 2004. Garretson joined Plant City’s Parks & Recreation Department as a Recreation Supervisor II in April 2019, coming on board in advance of the City’s newly-opened Sadie Gibbs Martin Community Center. “Obviously Jack set a great foundation for Parks & Recreation,” Garretson said. “He’s been involved with the city in this aspect for over 44 years which speaks for itself. I’m being handed off a department that’s already very efficient and productive. I want to be able to make an impact and move us into the future, continuing to progress on that foundation.” Garretson grew up in Lakeland, attending George Jenkins High School before the U niversity of South Florida, and it was Lakeland where she got her first job working within a Parks & Rec. department, spending the summer after her freshman year of college as a Rec. Leader I. The

position allowed her to develop a base level of knowledge and experience regarding municipalities and operations within the department and youth sports organizations, and she later returned to Lakeland’s department for two other summers throughout college. At the same time, Garretson was working in retail management where she was able to obtain management experience. Garretson attended the U niversity of South Florida before joining a youth sports organization where she spent over eight years as an operations manager, taking on several different roles that included human resources, payroll, budget management and supervisor for a team of over 30 staff members. The organization ran sports camps, after school sports programs, summer camp programs, sports leagues, lessons and more. “It was a great lens into the sports management world,” Garretson said. “So I was able to take my background in education, my love for sports and educating and being around the youth, combining that with the business aspect that I learned in retail management to make it one position that I was pretty successful at.”

She emerged as the new director from a field of over 60 potential applicants and was recognized before Mayor Rick Lott and the rest of Plant City’s City Commission on Monday. “It’s always very encouraging when we have internal candidates come through a process and shine like this,” city manager Bill McDaniel said. Garretson admits that a jump from the private sector to the public sector was a scary one, and one that she reflects on often. But ultimately it was a chance to step away from a realm where she was comfortable — and admittedly successful — and tackle a whole new challenge that provided the opportunity to try something new, build upon the great team that was already in place in Plant City, open the doors to a brand new recreation center and most importantly build meaningful relationships within the community. “I’ve been fortunate enough to work with a lot of great leaders and people that I would consider mentors within our department over the past three years,” Garretson said. “All of those people have equally contributed to my success and without them, without their

support, I’m not sure that I would be in the position that I am now. I look forward to growing with our

team and seeing where we can take the Parks & Rec Department over the next 10, 15, 20 years.”

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

NEWS BRIEFS

Photos courtesy of Southeastern Grocers Inc.

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

Southeastern Grocers donates more than $1.1 million in supplies to help Ukraine citizens Southeastern Grocers Inc., the parents company and home of Fresco y Was, Harvers Supermarket and Winn-Dixie Grocery Stores, extended additional support to the citizens of Ukraine through a donation of cleaning and sanitation supplies, personal protective equipment and nonperishable food items to humanitarian nonprofit o ganization Mission 823. Southeastern Grocers Inc.’s donation included more than $1.1 million dollars in products.

The donation will benefit Mi sion 823, a humanitarian nonprofit o ganization on the ground in Ukraine, seeking to help and protect at-risk children, including orphans and those on the streets that may be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and childhood traumas felt in war-torn areas. The organization also works with local task forces to help rescue children from human traffickin For more information on Mission 823, visit www.mission823.com

Goodwill to collect food for “Cereal for Summer” food drive As many as a quarter of the children in the Tampa Bay community are at risk of going hungry over the summer when school meals stop. To combat this number, The “Cereal for Summer” food drive, in partnership with 10 News and Feeding Tampa Bay, is returning in 2022 to fight hunger by collecting nutritious foods for families in need. Goodwill Industries-Suncoast is supporting the food drive by collecting nonperishable foods at their retail stores throughout the Tampa Bay Area. To make a donation,

just look for the “Cereal for Summer” collection box inside of Goodwill stores all throughout Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando, Polk and Citrus counties. Your donation can help ensure that children will be able to start the day with a healthy snack during the summer school break. Participants are encouraged to donate dry cereal — preferably one that is nutritious — breakfast bars or oatmeal. The food drive will be held from April 1 through May 6 and those in the Plant City area can donate to their local Goodwill location at 2802 James L. Redman Parkway.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

J. SEWARD JOHNSON SCULPTURES MAKE THEIR YEARLY RETURN TO PLANT CITY THE ARTWORK HAS MADE ITS WAY TO DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY EACH YEAR SINCE 2012.

TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

Over the past couple of weeks, you may have noticed some interesting characters lingering around downtown Plant City. They’re there when you drive by in the morning and still in their same place when you drive back by that evening. If this sounds familiar, then you’ve noticed the J. Seward Johnson sculptures that have made their way back to Plant City. The sculptures fi st made an appearance here in 2012 when the Plant City Photo Archives & History Center had them shipped in alongside a Smithsonian exhibition that they hosted in 2012. The Archives brought them back again the following year as well before the exhibits were taken over by the Arts Council of Plant City. “We just felt like it was the perfect fit or us because it gave us an opportunity to not only promote the Arts Council, but it’s an open air exhibit that

we have been able to bring in since then,” Arts Council president Marsha Passmore said. The Arts Council aims to bring arts to the Plant City Community, to promote education in the arts and to develop artists and the arts programs, and money raised through the council’s fundraisers goes directly toward funding student scholarships in the arts. In addition to the J. Steward Johnson Sculptures, the organization is heavily involved in the Plant City Christmas Parade and sponsors Plant City’s annual ChiliFest, the City’s Lamppost Banner Program and the Reflections Art Program — a national program that affords local students the opportunity to have their art on display at the event. The Arts Council uses funds budgeted to them from the City Commission each year to bring the sculptures back to Plant City and the Archives are still involved as they finan e the insurance for the program. The sculptures are then shipped from California to Florida, set

up and installed by Plant City’s General Services division, and call Plant City home for the next three months, usually scheduled around the Florida Strawberry Festival when people flood o the city. The exhibit typically features 10 unique sculptures, but due to the rising price of transportation, only seven are in attendance this year. But to make up for a few less pieces of art around town, the Arts Council requested that all of the sculptures in town this year be ones that haven’t been a part of Plant City’s exhibit in prior years. You can stroll around downtown Plant City to check out all of the displays for yourself, following along with the map included on this page, or take a guided tour led by Gil Gott, former executive director of the Plant City Archives & History Center. While the time and date for the guided tour is yet to be finali ed, you can contact the Arts Council of Plant City or the Archives for more information.

Plant City P

106 South E

info

Historic Photo Museum & Gallery Research Library & Archives Organizational Histories

PLANT EVENT SPRINGS WITH FUN THE PLANT CITY COMMONS COMMUNITY GARDEN WILL HOST A PROGRAM FOR GROWERS BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

All are welcome to be immersed in nature with the upcoming Earth, Wind, and Garden event, on April 9. It will be hosted by the Plant City Commons Community Garden from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the south side of the Hillsborough Community College – Plant City campus, 2001 E. Cherry St. The free outdoor event will allow visitors to attend various workshops throughout the day and be educated on ways to better care for nature. There will be plants for patrons to

purchase at the campus’ garden, but there will be over 20 vendors who will have things to purchase as well. Food will be provided, as well as live entertainment, activities for children, and garden tours. The garden is on 3.5 acres of land, and the Plant City club helps to maintain the botanical and community garden section.It was once tended to by agriculture students from the University of Florida. Workshops are typically held at least once a month and teach how to cul-

tivate different fruits and vegetables. The community also has the opportunity to rent out a bed.

COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

PLANT CITY

This week on Cops Corner: Plant

Observer

City Police investigate missing vehicles, a stolen firearm and a sleeping suspect. istock

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com Staff Writer / Brian Fernandes bfernandes@plantcityobserver.com Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

MARCH 18 LOST AND FOUND 1500 block of Pinedale Meadows Ct. Stolen/recovered vehicle: Offi ers met with the victim who noticed that her Chevy Silverado, along with the boat and trailer that were attached, was missing from her driveway. All were later recovered. LOOK WHAT WE FOUND 1300 block of E. Warren St. Stolen vehicle recovery: Officers responded to an abandoned vehicle at the listed location, finding it to have been reported stolen out of Tampa.

UNLOADED N. Park Rd. / E. Sam Allen Rd. Vehicle burglary: Officers met with the victim at the listed location who reported a rifle that as stolen from his vehicle. WHO WOOD DO THIS? 900 block of W. Alsobrook St. Theft: Officers were approached by the complainant who reported the theft of plywood from a construction site.

MARCH 19

was walking from his neighbor’s house and witnessed a juvenile walking out of his back yard with a handheld leaf blower. He shouted at the suspect who then began to run with the blower still in his possession. Officers recovered the blower and the victim signed a waiver of prosecution for theft. ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL West Baker St. / Enterprise St. DUI: Officers responded to an intersection at the listed location in reference to an individual that was asleep at the wheel of a running vehicle. The suspect was subsequently arrested.

DON’T BLOW IT 1400 block of Jenkins St. Residential burglary: Officers met with the victim at the listed location who advised that he

MARCH 21 OPEN DOOR POLICY 2700 block of Airport Rd. Business burglary: An officer met with the victim who stated that an unknown suspect entered the business at the listed location through an unlocked door at some point during the night.

MARCH 24 SUGAR RUSH 2000 block of James L. Redman Pkwy. Criminal mischief: Officers responded to the business at the listed location in reference to a criminal mischief complaint where a glass cookie case was broken.

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

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THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

MIXED USE PROPERTY OFF REDMAN IN THE WORKS CITY COMMISSION PUSHES DEVELOPMENT FORWARD. BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

The plan also calls for 150 singlefamily homes with no more than 55 being townhomes. Robyn Baker, the senior planner for the Plant City Planning and Zoning Department, was present to explain what the developer was proposing. “All the single family is located on the eastern side of the property with townhomes for the most part on the north side with one building a little closer to James L. Redman, with the best of the area along James L. Redman being that 14-acre park,” she said. The park will also have a natural wetland with scenic trails around the area. There will be 60-foot-wide lots along the eastern border of the site in order to keep smaller lots within the site. The northern and eastern borders will have an enhanced buffer and fencing. Existing trees that run along Redman Parkway within the park area will be preserved. It was also requested for there to be a reduced side yard setback of five feet for single family detached homes less than 60 feet. And permitting up to 30% of the built homes to be less than 60 feet wide. “Basically what they’re proposing for any lot that is 60 or above, they will have the 10-foot side yard setbacks for any lot less than 60, but they’re requesting for five feet,” Baker said. A transportation study was conducted, and it was determined that the following improvements should be made, if approved by Hillsborough County: • Retiming the lights at James L. Redman Parkway’s intersections with Alexander Street and Highway 60

• Adding left and right turn lanes at the entrance of the site The study was based on a mixed use of commercial and residential properties which is much more intense than the current proposal. An update to the analysis may be required at the time of the plat or construction plan, to determine if the improvements are still warranted. “When this particular study was conducted, the two uses that were being proposed were commercial and residential, and they will have to revisit the study at a later date, if approved to determine what exactly would be required at the project entrance, now that they reduced those trips greatly by switching to a park use,” Baker said. The developer also requested for a Miami curb in lieu of the F type curb where there are individual driveways. Each home will be built with cultured stone, natural stone, lap siding, and brick. Also coach style ornamental lights or shutters on the primary street facing windows. And two houses next to, and directly across from each other are required to not have the same architecture. An example of this would be a house with a more prominent, triangular shaped roof, including two floors as opposed to one, or one with larger windows. On Feb. 23, the Plant City Planning Board made a recommendation to push the request forward to the city commission with a vote of 7-0. The city commission approval was unanimous with a vote of 5-0.

Courtesy of the City of Plant City Schematics show how a mixed-use residential and park development off f James L. Redman Parkway may be structured, if built.

EXPERIENCE LIFE THIS EASTER PLANT CITY CHURCH OF GOD

d o o G day Fri Sunrise

April 15th Noon - 1pm Passion Demonstration with Holy Communion

service

April 17th @ 7 AM Walden Lake Community Park Bring Your Own Chair or Cart

April 17th - 10:15am Plant City Church of God

EasterSunday celebration

KIDS Church EASTER Egg Hunt with Prizes and Live Bunny Give-Away 10:15am

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

LAWMAKERS VISIT PC LOCALS SEN. BURGESS, REP. MCCLURE, AND REP. BELTRAN DISCUSS RELEVANT TOPICS

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

State Rep. Lawrence McClure (left), State Rep. Mike Beltran, and State Sen. Danny Burgess all showed up at the Trinkle Center for a meet and greet and to address modern day topics. The event took place on Wednesday, March 30.

The Plant City community had the opportunity to interact with their local legislature, on Wednesday. Sen. Danny Burgess, Rep. Lawrence McClure, and Rep. Mike Beltran socialized with the crowd who came to the Trinkle Center at the Hillsborough Community College – Plant City campus. They also expressed their thoughts on modern day issues. • Burgess, of District 20, was elected to the state senate in 2020. Prior to that, he served in the House of Representatives from 2014 to 2019. He is a native of Zephyrhills where he was mayor from 2013 to 2014 and was a part of the city council. • McClure, of District 58, is a Tampa native and currently resides in Dover. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 2017. He currently serves on several committees including the Appropriations Committee where he is vice chair. • Beltran, of District 57, is a native of New York and currently resides in Lithia. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and is an attorney. He’s also on several committees including the Civil Justice and Property Rights Subcommittee for which he is vice chair. What are your thoughts on the congressional maps in Florida? BELTRAN

There’s been tension between G ov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida legislative leadership in terms of how districts should be drawn out, based on who lives where. One example that Beltran used to show that district lines drawn were not compatible, was a district from Jacksonville all the way down to Orlando. Beltran said that he and DeSantis have agreed that there are maps that are

irregularly shaped, that don’t keep communities together and run from rural to urban communities hundreds of miles away from one another. The proposed draft is set up as such, Beltran said. “I don’t think that’s an appropriate way to keep drawing maps,” he said. “I don’t think the constitution requires it. I don’t think the constitution permits it.” MCCLURE

The redistricting map that the legislature proposed before DeSantis was “constitutionally sound” McClure said. Although he does not agree with DeSantis veto of the draft, he is optimistic that the governor and the legislative body will come to an agreement.

BURGESS

“The maps were staff drawn, it was a staff-driven process,” Burgess said. “Our maps were not challenged in court. That has never in the history of redistricting occurred.” Like McClure, Burgess has supported the most recent drawn map.

What are your thoughts recreational marijuana? BURGESS

“I have spent time in states that have legalized recreational marijuana, and take the moral arguments out of it, it’s awful,” Burgess said. “It smells atrocious. It’s just not aesthetically pleasing.” The nature of God was not intended to be used in that manner, he said. Driving down the highway or getting a cup of coffee, he has smelled the strong aroma. He also stated that it’s not the culture we should want in a state like Florida.

“Everyone wants to come here, everyone wants to be here, everyone wants to live here,” Burgess said. “That doesn’t appeal to me personally. I think it takes away from our atmosphere.” MCCLURE

McClure took a lighter note on the subject saying that the issue really doesn’t move the needle for him. “Don’t look for me to sponsor a bill or advocate or not advocate against it,” McClure said. There is some benefit to it as a medication, he said.

BELTRAN

Beltran made it clear during his run in the primary season that he doesn’t support the use of marijuana. He also doesn’t think that it is useful in any way, and that his friends who did partake ended up not making much for themselves. “It’s going to cause psychological problems,” Beltran said. “It’s going to cause other things. We don’t know what it’s going to cause because we haven’t studied it, because it’s illegal. What would you say in response to those who believe the “Don’t Say Gay” bill silences LGBTQ youth?

MCCLURE

“Do you think that these children should be having discussions regarding sexual orientation, sexual identity, sex in any way, shape or form? It would be unanimous, absolutely not,” McClure said. He said that it’s not about discrimination but talking about an inappropriate subject to children. Gov. DeSantis has received backlash not because he is wrong, but because he stands for what is right, McClure said.

“If my daughter, who is almost two and a half, in another couple of years goes to school and I find out that that teacher has been having conversations with them about sex in any way, shape, or form, without having a discussion with me, I would be a little bit afraid myself,” he added. BURGESS

Burgess stated that the language of the bill has been stigmatized for what it’s not. “This bill spoke to kindergarteners through third grade, and said ‘we’re not going to sexualize kids, he said. “Kids are innocent.” And while he admits that there are many issues that the house and senate should focus on, this is one topic that should be a priority. “This bill speaks to curriculum and age-appropriate conversation,” Burgess said. “This bill also speaks to a parent’s rights because a parent’s rights don’t stop at the door of a classroom. It never will and it never should.”

BELTRAN

The bill doesn’t target children but the teaching method that may be outside of an instructor’s curriculum, Beltran said. “The proper place to go and discuss that sort of thing is with your parents, with a therapist, with a trusted friend,” Beltran said, “not where a teacher is telling students about it at a very young age, when kids wouldn’t even be thinking about that sort of thing.” He noted that his son attended an event at school where the students were encouraged to express their sexual orientation. He said that it only marginalizes kids and makes them feel uncomfortable.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

First Call: Three Years and Going Strong

The First Call church in Dover celebrates its third anniversary

Courtesy of Penny Layton-Otero

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Tears, laughter, applause, harmonious singing, and an uplifting sermon, were all found on the premises of the First Call church as many came out on Sunday. It was in celebration of the church’s third anniversary. Three years of welcoming all that come through its doors, especially those who are fi st responders. And it’s a milestone for a sanctuary that started with small but humble beginnings. Dr. Daniel Middlebrooks, the senior chaplain of First Call, retired from the Army in 2013, after having been in the military for over 25 years. “We started out with about 14 [people],” he said. There were those who doubted whether the church could continue to exist based on its numbers. The Florida Baptist Convention set the standards for First Call as it does with other Baptist churches. The convention allows up to three years for a church to show that it is thriving as its own entity, Middlebrooks said. Now First Call has a more sizable congregation with anywhere from 75 to 85 people, plus visitors. Those who come for service are made up of retired or active military officers, EMTs, fi efigh ers, and law enforcement as well as everyday citizens from the community. In the last three years, it has become a place of solace for those men and women in uniform who need spiritual rejuvenation and a congregation of friends and family who can relate to them. Middlebrooks established the church in 2019 for that very reason, he said. As a chaplain in the Army, he wanted to care for soldiers who were distraught and needed an uplifting message. Throughout his time in service, he relocated 19 different times before returning to his native Plant City with his wife, Arienne. Although he retired from the Army, he didn’t retire from his missionary work, and wanted to provide a sanctuary where those in uniform could be comforted and encouraged on Sunday mornings.

At times, these fi st responders may have to work a shift on a Sunday and can’t make it for service. However, their families are present. “Spouses, on behalf of First Call and those around you, that need you, thank you for who you are,” Middlebrooks said with gratitude. Stephanie King is a member of First Call and is the wife of Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputy. “It’s very heart-warming to see people support their local fi st responders,” she said. “To see people support their local communities when we come together and share the comradery.” Middlebrooks founded Chaplaincy Care Inc., a non-profit o ganization with the sole purpose of focusing on the well-being of fi st responders so they can continue to perform their duties to the fullest. “When a person takes the moment to steady his breathing and listen to his heartbeat, the impact of the power and presence of life is amazing,” he stated on the Chaplaincy Care website. “Three crucial beats that are needed within the heart of a hero are: relationships, resiliency, and readiness.” To provide this, the organization counsels its men and women so they can grow not only spiritually, but physically, emotionally, mentally, and socially. Since its inception, Chaplaincy Care has expanded outside of Hillsborough County to neighboring Pinellas County, and now Pasco County is joining the ranks. At the ceremony, it was announced that Chaplain Paul Tomlinson will lead the Pasco branch. “It’s going to be brand new,” Tomlinson said. “We really get launched this year. We’re kind of falling in the heels of Pinellas that launched a little over a year ago, and we’re learning this together. We’re all coming at this from very different backgrounds

as we come to serve those in a different uniform.” He explained that he will be working in unison with chaplains that oversee the county’s sheriff’s office and fi e departments. Also in attendance was Will Murphy, who is one chaplain among several that serve the Largo Fire Rescue in Pinellas County. He had previously worked as a fi efigh er and paramedic for 26 years. “We spend Wednesdays at Largo visiting our six fi e stations and developing relationships with our fi efigh ers, so that when they need something, they know us and can call us, and have done so,” Murphy said. Last December, Middlebrooks started the First Friday “Hero” Fellowship. This event occurs the fi st Friday of each month, providing a free, hot breakfast for men and women in uniform. The fi st fellowship breakfast had those from the Plant City Fire Rescue, the Plant City Police Department and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office continuously coming through the door of Johnson Barbeque where they could fix a pla e. During the anniversary event, Middlebrooks presented plaques to various agencies and organizations such as: • Plant City Police Department • Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office • Hillsborough County Public Schools Security and Emergency Management • Chick-Fil-A • Florida Highway Patrol • Florida Strawberry Festival • Hillsborough County Courthouse He also took the time to recognize media outlets, his church staff, and the fi st responders who were able to be present. For retired and active military officers, he presented each with a Chaplaincy Care Coin of Excellence. One side of the coin is engraved with a shield and sword.

“The sword represents our military that figh s our battles across the street, the shield represents our fi st responders that protect our families across the street,” Middlebrooks said. “We need both of them and we pray for both of them. But on the other side of that coin…it has a picture of what the armor really looks like and it has a cross, and that cross represents that if you don’t protect your heart, it really doesn’t matter. “It doesn’t matter about the car that you drive, it doesn’t matter about the weapon you bear…doesn’t matter the uniform that you wear, [if] your heart comes apart, everything comes apart.” During the ceremony, he and his sister Debbie were brought to tears as they recalled the harrowing experience of losing their brother Michael in 2009. He passed away on Easter, the same day Middlebrooks was scheduled to preach four sermons. Upon receiving the news, his commanding officer ordered him to leave Baghdad, Iraq. Middlebrooks decided he was going to stay and fulfill his duti s as a chaplain. When asked why, he told his commanding officer that his brother was already looking down on him. King said that First Call has been a blessing to her and her family, especially with Middlebrooks as the lead chaplain. Just like King, others attested to how far the church has come and how far it will continue to go. “Three years ago, what was about to close, began to be a new beginning,” Middlebrooks said. “As we come into this celebration three years later, it allows us to know that we have a whole lot more in store.”

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

Meet Krystelle Duvert, New Plant City Dentist Dr. Duvert is now the lead dentist for PC Monticciolo Dentistry

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

As a dentist, Dr. Krystelle Duvert has spent many years helping her patients maintain healthy teeth and show off a b autiful smile, and now she has brought her services to Plant City. Duvert is the newest family dentist at the Plant City branch of Monticciolo Family and Sedation Dentistry. Vincent Monticciolo established the dentistry, comprised of 11 offices in the Tampa Bay region, including Dunedin, Hudson, Land O’ Lakes, New Port Richey, Plant City, Seminole, Spring Hill, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Valrico, and Tarpon Springs. She considered applying as a lead dentist for the Land O’ Lakes office while it was being constructed. At that point she had been working at another practice. However, she said that her new and current position as lead dentist at Monticciolo happened at the right time and at the right place. “Plant City was an opportunity of course, but it’s a familiar opportunity,” Duvert said. “I kind of feel like it really was meant to be. Plant City’s a fit all a ound.” Her fi st love was aviation and she wanted to become a pilot. However, she was eventually steered toward dentistry. She is originally from the Caribbean island Grenada. There

she worked as a teacher. She moved to Florida in 1992 and attended the University of South Florida, graduating with a degree in chemistry. Duvert then moved to Washington D.C. after enrolling in dental school at Howard University. After she graduated in 2004 and obtained her license, she briefly orked in D.C. before returning to Florida. Over the years, Duvert has worked throughout the Tampa Bay area as a dental assistant, a dental hygienist, a practicing dentist, and has not only worked in offices, but in lab settings as well. At Monticciolo, she and her staff do what th y can to better accommodate patients, especially when they’re hesitant about going to the dentist. “A lot of patients come here already knowing that we have the ability to deal with them at any level of fear,” Duvert said. She noted that forming a connection with the patients is critical in gaining their trust. She relates to many as she herself is afraid of being injected with needles. When it’s time to administer them, she comforts patients the best way she can. It has to be a team effort in order to better accommodate the patients, Duvert noted. “I lucked out…I do have the best assistants,” she said.

Stephanie Gray is one of those assistants who recalled meeting Duvert. “She was very welcoming, very friendly, and very easy to get along with, [and] talk with,” Gray said. “She can start a conversation with anybody and really make you feel like you’re fitting in. I felt at home when I started working here.” Duvert initially met Monticciolo during the mission project Dentistry from the Heart, of which he is the founder. It is a non-profit organization that provides free dental service to those who cannot afford it. To date, it has raised and donated over $25 million and has served over 500,000 people. Duvert also dedicates her time to Mission Smiles, an organization based in Tampa that partners with churches and ministries to provide those at the poverty level with the same kind of care. She has been involved in charitable work in the U.S. and abroad. “I’ve jumped through a lot of hoops to get to this point,” Duvert said. “I think that’s why my heart is in mission work because we depended on people, missionaries from Europe, from the U.S., to come down and get so many services, and giving back is just something I’ve grown with.” She recently started working in real estate, another field that she has become passionate about. Duvert didn’t have much growing up in Grenada, but her family

instilled in her the importance to persevere to reach her goals, she said. That advice is what she wants to impart to others who may be considering work in dentistry but are apprehensive. “One step today is better than where you were yesterday,” she said. “There is nothing that you cannot do. You set your goals no matter how small, how big they are. Success is measured in all

Krystelle Duvert, the new lead dentist at the Plant City Monticciolo Family and Sedation Dentistry office, is seen hanging out with ThunderBug, of the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team

different types of ways. It’s not always about money.”

SPORTS

FORMER BUCCANEERS RECEIVER MICHAEL CLAYTON

NAMED NEXT HEAD COACH FOR PLANT CITY FOOTBALL All photos courtesy of theTampa Bay Buccaneers

Clayton was selected by Tampa Bay in the first ound of the 2004 NFL Draft. TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

A former NCAA national champion and first round pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Michael Clayton is set to become the next head football coach at Plant City High School. He will be introduced at a pep rally on Friday. “When his name came up as we were searching for a new head coach, we couldn’t wait to see what he had to offer,” Assistant Principal Randy Humphrey said. “He knows football obviously, being coached by Nick Saban at the college level, playing for the Buccaneers, all of those things. He knows football. But what actually stood out about him was his passion for helping young men, for motivating people, for encouragement and for strengthening and developing character in young athletes as a whole.” Originally from Baton Rouge, Clayton was a five star prospect coming out of high school before committing to attend Louisiana State University. Once at LSU, Clayton totaled 2,582 receiving yards, 182 receptions and 22 total touchdowns over his three seasons with the Tigers, finishing his college career with a National Championship victory over Oklahoma in the 2004 Sugar Bowl. At the time, Clayton set a school record with 21 career receiving touchdowns and still sits second in career receptions, just one catch shy of LSU’s all-time mark. Later that spring, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Clayton with the 15th overall pick in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He made an immediate impact as a rookie, leading the team with 80 receptions, 1,193 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Clayton was subsequently named to the 2004 NFL All-Rookie Team by the Pro Football Writers of America. Clayton spent six seasons with the Bucs before being released in 2009, signing with the Giants in 2010 and spending two years with New York while being a part of their Super Bowl-winning roster in 2012. Once out of football, Clayton has arguably found just as much success. A father of five, he’s owned and operated his own businesses in both Lousiana and Florida. He’s worked

as a mentor and public speaker. He’s been a guest analyst for the Big Ten Network, NFL Network and CBS Tampa’s “Sports Extra.” For the past three season he’s co-hosted the Bucs’ pre-and post-game radio shows on local radio station 95.3 WDAE. Shortly after retirement, he even published a self-help book entitled “Chasing My Rookie Year” in 2013. Clayton always saw coaching as a “Plan C” that fell behind playing footbsll, building a life for himself after football and ensuring that he could spend time with his growing family. But when this opportunity arose to take an interview as a head coach with Plant City, after a long wait and the feeling that he had succeeded in his other endeavors, he followed his heart. “It kind of happened organically for me and now I’m taking my family on this ride with the hope that along this journey we can win a state championship,” Clayton said. “The only level that I didn’t win a championship was in high school. I won a championship in college, I won a championship in the pros with the Giants and now I have the opportunity to shoot for a championship at the high school level as a head coach. It’s an opportunity for me to be a champion at all three levels but mainly an opporunity to pour into young people, something that’s grown to be my passion in life. Educating and motivating young people to be their very best self.” Along with Clayton, he’s brining some familiar coaches on staff with him in Kenny Kelly as offensive coordinator and Terrance Hicks, most recently a coach at Alonso High School, as defensive coordinator. “I look forward to the challenge,” Clayton said. “I’ve never done it before but I feel like we’re building a great staff, I have a lot of support, I have a lot of help that I can call on and I’ve been there and done that. With all of that expertise and knowledge I think that we’re going to be able to be a highly competitive team. We’re going to set the bar high just like I was taught by Coach Saban back when I was in college. While the staff is beginning to come together, Humphrey said that the school is still looking to fill out some coaching spots.

Along with some new faces at the helm of Plant City’s football program, the entire football facility will have a new look in 2022 as well. Beginning on April 1, Plant City High School will begin the process of installing a new turf field, a new track around the field, a new scoreboard and a new video board. “We’re excited for the opportunity to build, ” Humphrey said. “Not only are we getting a new head coach but we’ll be developing a new coaching staff, getting a new stadium with a new scoreboard. Everything about this just shows you that Plant City is fully invested in our athletes, into our school and into the program for the future.”

LOCAL PREPS SCOREBOARD Baseball: 3/29

Softball: 3/24 - 3/29

CHAMBERLAIN . . . . . . . . . . 1 DURANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

NEWSOME . . . . . . . . . . . 4 STRAWBERRY CREST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

RIVERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 PLANT CITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

DURANT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 PLANT CITY . . . . . . . . . . . 0

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

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

ALL THREE PLANT CITY AREA BASEBALL TEAMS KEEP SEASONS ROLLING WITH STRONG WEEK Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest all kept their winning ways rolling over the past week.

Wolves’ only two runs of the night. Despite Plant City allowing just two, that’s all Newsome would need as they escaped with a 2-0 shutout victory over the Raiders. On Tuesday, Plant City jumped right back into district play against Riverview again where their pitching depth proved key in getting the 3-2 victory. While junior Preston Rogers typically serves as the Raiders closer, the condensed schedule pushed him into the starting rotation against the Sharks and he shined with a complete game, allowing just two hits and two runs – neither of them earned – while striking out seven. The Raiders now sit at 10-3 on the year and will return to action on Thursday against Brandon before taking on Steinbrenner on Saturday. Coming off of back-to-back contests in which Durant put up double-digit runs – a 10-7 win over Steinbrenner and an 11-4 win over East Bay – the Cougars hosted then-undefeated Lennard last Thursday, falling 3-2 in a close contest. Junior Ian Bast got the start for Durant, working four innings before turning the ball over to freshman reliever Jack Brooks who worked three shutout innings to finish the game, allowing just two hits in his third appearance of the season.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Kicking off a grueling stretch of the year in which Plant City was set to play six games over a 12-day period, the Raiders have gone 2-1 over the past week, with narrow wins over Sumner and Riverview and a loss to Newsome. While their offense has struggled to find much production of late, the Raiders’ strong pitching staff has continued to give Plant City an opportunity to stay in the win column. Last Thursday the team traveled to Sumner where they came away with a 2-1 victory, led by sophomore starter Chase Mobley who allowed just two hits and one earned run while striking out eight over his six innings of work, juniors Landen Robert and Adan Longoria drove in the Raiders’ two runs in the contest. Bouncing right back on Friday in a district matchup against Newsome, their second district game of the season following a 4-0 win over Riverview earlier in the month, the Raiders were unable to get anything going at the plate. Adan Longoria started the contest strong on the mound for Plant City, holding Newsome without a hit through three innings, but ultimately couldn’t remain perfect in the fourth inning as two doubles paved the way for the

On Saturday, Durant faced another tough opponent in Wharton but the bats were back alive for the Cougars as they came away with a 12-10 victory. The offensive output was led by junior catcher Dylan LaPointe, launching his third home run of the season en route to a fourRBI day. And it was right back to business as usual on Tuesday as the Cougars put up double-digit runs for the fourth time in five games in an 11-1 victory over Chamberlain. The Cougars took a quick lead in the first as a two-out base hit from LaPointe ultimately led to a 1-0 lead on an RBI double from Oscar Fernandez. Then in the third, sophomore Nick AprilGath reached safely on an error and advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt from Aidan Welsh before being driven home on a double from LaPointe, coming up big for Durant once again. Leading 2-0 in the fourth, Durant broke the game open with a seven-run inning to take a 9-0 lead. In the fifth, Noah Morales led off the frame with a base hit and moved over to third on an infield single from Avery Cherry. Another infield single from Devin Suero loaded the bases and with Chamberlain’s defense playing in and the game on the line, Welsh was able to push the game-ending run across as a ground ball to

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short couldn’t be fielded quickly enough to beat Morales at the plate. “They’re putting the ball in play, which is key,” head coach Butch Valdes said about Durant’s offense. “We struggled the other day and bounced back against Wharton. We didn’t hit the ball very well against Lennard, we didn’t make adjustments, but they figured it out. We had a good practice before Wharton on Saturday and I think the guys have figured out what they’ve got to do. And we need to have that same practice again because we’ve got Newsome on Thursday and they’re going to be tough.” Bast put together a strong outing for Durant in their win over Chamberlain, allowing one run over four innings before freshman Dylan Hotz entered the game to close the door in the fifth. The offensive production has not just been a welcome sight for the Cougars, but crucial as they have seen several pitchers miss time with injuries. Perhaps none bigger than sophomore Blaine Rowland. The absent arms have allowed young pitchers to step up and get some experience throughout Durant’s 9-5 start, but Rowland should be set to return in the coming weeks to provide some

much-needed assurance to a currently thin pitching staff as the Cougars approach postseason play. Strawberry Crest cruised to victory last Thursday with a 16-1 win over Middleton in five innings. Seven different players in the Chargers’ lineup notched an RBI in the big win, led by three from senior Ethan Pues and a pair from junior Ray Allen Vasquez. Juniors Alex Philpott and Zachary Redner handled the pitching duties with two innings each, combining for nine strikeouts while allowing just one hit and one run. To round out the week, Strawberry Crest hosted 9-2 Newsome on Wednesday. While Strawberry Crest played their game against Newsome on Wednesday, the contest 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.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

PlantCityObserver.com

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

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We asked Plant City: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in life? “1. To cherish your loved ones while they are here. 2. Your children really do grow up too fast. 3. If you have health and love you are rich!” - Diane Floyd Dawson “Family is everything, and we should cherish that. Life can be gone so quickly, and the last thing we will be worried about is money when it’s our time to go. Believe in yourself and never stop learning.” - Amanda Harper “Family is always most important but also treating people how you want to be treated is important. You never know what someone is dealing with and your kindness can bless them.

Keeping God as my center.” - Lorie Rogers “Be kind and smile to others, neither one costs a thing, but could mean the world to someone.” - Amanda Gilley “We rise by lifting others.” - Kerri Friederich “To take one day at a time and not get too far ahead of myself. I struggle with this everyday because I am a planner and never want to let anyone down.” - Judy Wise “Road construction never ends. Get used to it.” - Brad Dennis

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

William “Andy” Lassiter, 49, of Plant City, Fla., born in Ft. Bragg, N.C. on Dec. 4, 1972, entered into eternal rest on March 25, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Pamela Lynn Castret Pamela Lynn Castret, 63, of Brandon, Fla., born in Fayetteville, N.C. on Jan. 28, 1959, entered into eternal rest on March 20, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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Oscar Figueroa

Oscar Figueroa, 61, of Plant City, Fla., born on April 28, 1960 in San Miguel De Cruces, Durango, Mexico entered into eternal rest on March 17, 2022. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral. com.

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Allison B. Bauer Allison B. Bauer, 83, of Mulberry, Fla., born in Gouverneur, N.Y., on April 4, 1938, entered into eternal rest on March 23, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Sandra Shiver Shirley Sandra Shiver Shirley, 74, of Lithia, Fla., born in Sanford on July 15, 1947, entered into eternal rest on March 20, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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William ‘Bill’ Canter

William “Bill” Canter, 79, of Plant City, Fla., born in Greensboro, N.C. on April 7, 1942, entered into eternal rest on March 28, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

Julius F. Hobbs Julius F. Hobbs passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday March 20, 2022. He was 84 years old. He is preceded in death by his son Julius “Frankie” Hobbs Jr. He is survived by his wife Shirley M. Hobbs, his daughter Jennifer Hobbs Clark, son in law Thomas Clark, his grandchildren Lyndsi Griffit Jaedan and Piper Clark, great grandchildren Sophia and Jaiyla Baez, his sister-in-law M.A. (Micki) Hobbs, nieces Kimberly Gustafson, Debbie Hobbs, Madonna Schaffer, nephew Todd Hinson. He graduated from Plant City High School in 1956, and received a Bachelor of Science degree in administration from Florida Southern College in Lakeland, and a master’s degree in management from The University of South Florida. Julius left an imprint in the greater Tampa Bay Area and enjoyed more than 38 years of service with Tampa Electric Company. He retired as the Director of Corporate Relations and Executive Director of the

Teco Energy Foundation. His love of the Greater Tampa Bay community led his past involvement in local and state activities including the Audubon of Florida, founding Chairman and Board Member of the Gasparilla Pirate Fest, was the “Father”of the Manatee Viewing/ Educational Center, founding board member for Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center (Now Straz Center), Florida Aquarium, MOSI, and served other various boards and community events. His interest in education was evident in his service as charter Board Member of the Hillsborough and Polk Education Foundations, Board Member of the Florida Education Foundation, Chairman of the USF’s College of Educational Development Board, past Chairman of the Education Council of the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce and served in advisory capacities for various educational and nonprofit g oups as well as the founder of the Great American Teach-In. He was an active member of First Methodist Church of Plant City, the Tampa Chamber

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

of Commerce, and Florida Merchants Association and was a Rotarian. The family would like to thank his caregivers, Dorothy McDaniel, Raya Bauer, Carson Magann, Steve Miner and Pedro Labrada. Family Visitation will be March 31, 2022 at 10 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 11 a.m. The location is First United Methodist Church in Plant City (303 N. Evers St). Haught Funeral Home is presiding. In lieu of fl wers, the family requests donations to the Methodist Children’s Home or Hospice Sapphire Group. Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

privately. The family would like to thank everyone for all their thoughts and prayers during this difficult ti . Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

OBITUARIES

William ‘Andy’ Lassiter

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

Ward Earl

Taking care of Johnson each other is Johnson, what 65, Ward Earl

of Dover, Fla. passed away community on Tuesday, March 8, 2022.

is Ward all about. was born Dec. 5,

1956. Fond memories and we’re dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ RE P RO U D TO S E RV E our community HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM expressions ofmeaningful sympathy unique and memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, may becelebrates shared at www. > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability WellsMemorial.com for the > The Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance Leslie Norman Johnson family. ®

Kimmel, Sr. Proudly supporting theR Plant City Strawberry Festival.

Leslie Norman Kimmel, Sr. died unexpectedly on March 17, 2022 in Plant WELLSMEMORIAL.COM City, Fla. He was 61 years old. Services will be held Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

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

10/27/15 10:42 AM

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

OBITUARIES

YOUR CALENDAR

Lewis Bailey Leverett Taking care of

each other is what Lewis Bailey Leverett, 89, of Madison, community Ala., passed away

is all about. on Sunday, March 6,

2022. He was born on Nov., 1, 1932. we’re dedicated to helping families create a S E RV E our community Fond memories unique and meaningful memorialand that truly assionate care since 1896. celebrates the life it represents. morial professionals, expressions of sympaervice Guarantee > National Plan Transferability be shared ment Travel Assistance thy > Themay Compassion Helpline®at www.WellsMemorial. Rcom for the Leverett oudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. family. ®

WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Taking care of each other is Macisco what Joan S

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

Danilo ‘Dan’ Coton

Danilo “Dan” Coton, 88, of Plant City, Fla., born on April 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com 20, 1933 in Tampa, entered Joan S Macisco, 88, of into eternal rest on March 28, Plant City, Fla. passed 2022. He was a Veteran of the away on Thursday, March United States Army, where 10, 2022. Joan was born he served in the PresidenMay 3, 1933. we’re dedicated to helping families create a S E RV E our community and meaningful memorial that trulytial Honor Guard, and was a assionate care since 1896. Fondunique memories and celebrates the life it represents. morial professionals, past President of the Plant expressions of sympathy ervice Guarantee > National Plan Transferability ment Travel Assistance The Compassion Helpline® City Dolphins Youth Football may be >shared at www. League. His life was his family. WellsMemorial.com for the R family. He is survived by the love of Macisco oudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. his life of 62 years, Rosalie Coton; children, Tammy Coton Vavolizza (Robert), of Rye WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Brook, New York, and Daniel Coton (Danna) of Plant City; Rick, Mark, Wells MeMorial & event Center Carl ‘Fred’ Difani grandchildren, PlanT CiTy Justin (Katherine), Courtney, 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Michael, Julianne, and Brent; Carl “Fred” Difani, 79, of and sisters, Ligia Fernandez, Plant City passed peaceand Aida Diaz. The family fully on March 10, 2022. will receive friends on April Services were held March 1, 2022 from 6 to 8 p.m. at 22, 2022 at Wells MemoHopewell Funeral Home, 6005 rial. dedicated to helping S E RV E our community Fondwe’re memories andfamilies create a South County Road 39, Plant unique and meaningful memorial that truly assionate care since 1896. City. Interment at Garden of expressions sympathy celebrates of the life it represents. morial professionals, rvice Guarantee Plan Transferability Memories, Tampa. In lieu of may> National be shared at www. ment Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® fl wers, memorial contribuWellsMemorial.com for the R tions may be made to stjude. Difani family. udly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. org. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

BEST BET FRIDAY, APRIL 1 KRAZY COMEDY SHOW

7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Head to Krazy Kup to check out some amazing comedic talent at the fi st ever Krazy Comedy Show. The show is sure to have you on the edge of your seat, laughing along with the comedic stylings of some of the area’s youngest upcoming comics. In a night that provides fun for the whole family, you will have the opportunity to come out and support the next generation of local talent. Admission is free and a bucket will be passed around for donations.

Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy

community

is all about.

C.indd 1

10/27/15 10:42 AM

Taking care of each other is what

community

C.indd 1

10/27/15 10:42 AM

is all about.

WELLSMEMORIAL.COM

Taking care of 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Shelton T. Gould each other is what Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy

.indd 1

Shelton T. Gould, 77, of community Plant City, Fla., passed

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM 10/27/15 10:42 AM

Linda Lucille

is away all about. on Wednesday, March Nelson

9, 2022. Shelton was born Feb. 28, 1945. Linda Lucille Nelson, age we’re dedicated to helping families create a E RVE our community unique and meaningful memorial that truly 72, of Plant City, Fla. passed ssionate care since 1896. Fond memories and celebrates the life it represents. orial professionals, expressions ofTransferability sympathy away on March 29, 2022. vice Guarantee > National Plan ent Travel Assistance The Compassion Helpline® may be>shared at www. The family will receive WellsMemorial.com for the friends April 1, 2022 from R family. 10 to 11 a.m. at Haught dly supportingGould the Plant City Strawberry Festival. Funeral Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Funeral services will follow WELLSMEMORIAL.COM at 11 a.m. Online condolences may Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy be left for the family at 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com haught.care.

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10/27/15 10:42 AM

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 2 SOUTHERN EXPRESS BLUEGRASS BAND

SATURDAY, APRIL 16 STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN

7 to 9 p.m. at 110 N. Forbes Rd. Life Journey Baptist Church will play host to a night of great Bluegrass music with the local Southern Express Bluegrass Band. Based in Auburndale, the group features several experienced Bluegrass musicians and is no stranger to performing all throughout the Central Florida area. Admission is free and the event is open to the public.

3 to 6:30 at 102 N. Palmer St. The Plant City Classic Cruise-In is back on Saturday, Jan. 15, rain or shine. Cars and trucks manufactured in or before 1996 can register for free starting at 3 p.m. Live music will be provided by DJ John Paul Gasca.

SATURDAY, APRIL 2

LAST FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN

FRIDAY, APRIL 29

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 fi st Saturday of every month.

5 to 9 p.m. at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. The Last Friday in Downtown Food Truck Rally is held with a new theme each month. There will be live music, market vendors and food trucks. The event is family and pet friendly and all are recommended to bring chairs and blankets. This month’s theme will be May The 4th Be With You (Star Wars).

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6

THURSDAY, MAY 5

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS WITH ESTRANGED FAMILIES

MAIN STREET TOP GOLF TOURNAMENT

BLUEGRASS JAM!

6:30 to 8 p.m. at GracePoint Church, 1107 Charlie Griffin d. Join other parents who are estranged from their adult children. PEAK (Parents of Estranged Adult Kids) group provides a safe place to listen, share and support others going through the hurt of adult family abandonment. Meetings will include group discussions, self-care and positivelyinfluen ed activities to help cope with the situation. Meetings are held the fi st Wednesday of each month. For more information, visit www.peaksupportgroup.com.

SATURDAY, APRIL 9 EARTH, WIND AND GARDEN

9 a.m to 1 p.m. at 2001 E. Cherry St. Take a trip down to the Plant City Commons Community Garden, located on the south side of the Plant City HCC Campus, for Earth, Wind and Garden. The event is free, open to everyone and will feature several activities for those of all ages, including vendors, food, music, workshops, children’s activities, garden tours and a plant sale. To register as a vendor or sponsor, or to just get more information on the event, please contact plantcitygarden@gmail.com.

5 to 8 p.m. at 10690 Palm River Rd. Head to Top Golf for this fun networking event, sponsored by Plant City Main Street. Top Golf is a high-tech, state-ofthe-art interactive driving range and entertainment complex that features climate-controlled hitting bays and fun for golfers of all skill levels, including novices. In addition to the tournament, you’ll have to opportunity to take in a mouth-watering dinner buffet and open bar served in a private VIP room. With sponsorship packages ranging from $100 to $500, you can register now or get more information at www.plantcitymainstreet.org.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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FORECAST

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 31 High: 91 Low: 71 Chance of rain: 13%

FRIDAY, APRIL 1 High: 83 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 58%

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

SUNRISE/SUNSET Sunrise Sunset Thursday, March 31

7:20a

7:46p

Friday, April 1

7:18a

7:46p

Saturday, April 2

7:17a

7:47p

Sunday, April 3

7:16a

7:47p

Monday, April 4

7:15a

7:48p

Tuesday, April 5

7:14a

7:48p

Wednesday, April 6

7:13a

7:49p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, APRIL 2 High: 83 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 85%

SUNDAY, APRIL 3 High: 84 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 24%

MONDAY, APRIL 4 Albert Burchsted snapped this brilliant photo of a local hawk while walking his dog in Plant City.

ONLINE

High: 86 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 24%

Across 1 “I __ out!” 5 Slavic title derived from “Caesar” 9 President born in Hawaii 14 Wrath, in a hymn title 15 Syllables from Santa 16 Egret, for one 17 Highway reading 18 __ of March 19 “Good Will Hunting” actor 20 “Even dialogue wouldn’t have saved that show,” e.g.? 23 Stir-fry ingredient 24 Camden Yards player 28 Golden __

29 Alpo holder? 32 Needlefis 34 Guys 35 Abbr. after Shaker or Brooklyn 36 Misleading gossip? 41 Richard Wright’s “Native __” 42 __ Center: L.A. skyscraper 43 Urge 44 Face of a petty criminal? 48 Egyptian goddess 51 Anatomical ring 52 Dead Sea Scrolls sect 55 Pilot lighter, and a hint to the four other longest

puzzle answers 58 Goes after 61 Do nothing 62 Hot under the collar 63 On top of things 64 Pentagon measure 65 Lacking depth and width 66 Phone messages 67 Exec’s benefi 68 Lepidopterists’ tools Down 1 Tiny tufts 2 “God Is a Woman” singer Grande 3 “Stop badgering me!” 4 Camper’s supply

5 Wind instrument? 6 Belt with 12 parts 7 “I’m standing right here” 8 Flower with hips 9 “Phooey!” 10 Brimless cap 11 Limb with biceps and triceps 12 Low in the fiel 13 Martin who wrote many of the “Baby-Sitters Club” novels 21 Winfrey of HBO’s “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” 22 Sharp 25 Folk singer Phil 26 Wood strip 27 Minnesota twins? 30 “May I see __?”: diner’s query 31 1980s-’90s game console 33 Find incredibly funny 36 Stern 37 “Bus Stop” dramatist 38 __ de plume 39 Reason-based faith 40 Available and fresh 41 Like a wee bairn 45 Small racer 46 Select groups 47 Eccentric type 49 Pray aloud, perhaps 50 It’s not for everyone 53 __ preview 54 Tool storage sites 56 Thunder sound 57 Rabbit-like animal 58 Bowler, for one 59 More than impress 60 Jazz instrument

April 1 New

April 9 First

April 18 Full

April 23 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

0.27 in.

2.14 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

MARCH AVERAGE:

5.66 in.

2.78 in.

STRAWBERRIES Shipping point: Central Florida $9.50-$15.00

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

Great health care is closer than you think. South Florida Baptist Hospital is more than just a small community hospital. We’ve got a wide array of specialty care and surgical services that you don’t have to travel far to get. Our surgeons are experts in minimally invasive robotic surgical procedures that provide lots of benefits, including shorter hospital stays, decreased blood loss and smaller incisions that reduce the risk of infection. Plus, faster recovery times that mean you can get back to your normal activities sooner. You’ll find comprehensive orthopedic care—whether you’re an athlete who needs sports medicine services or you’re someone who needs a total joint replacement. Our all-inclusive gynecology program offers high-quality care to the women and mothers in our community with a variety of women’s care services. We’ve even been designated as a Center of Excellence for our weight loss surgery program, meeting nationally recognized standards and providing outstanding care to our patients. And all of this extraordinary care exists right here in Plant City. Learn more: SouthFloridaBaptistSurgery.org

21-1493769-0521

PlantCityObserver.com