5.11.23 PLCO

POLICE DEPARTMENT TO UNVEIL MEMORIAL HONORING FALLEN OFFICER

OFFICER ROBERT E. YATES, KILLED IN 1911, IS THE ONLY PLANT CITY POLICE OFFICER TO DIE IN THE LINE OF DUTY.

In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day, a day to honor the lives of officers who have died or become disabled in the line of duty.

On Monday, May 15 at 3 p.m., Plant City Police Department will unveil a memorial honoring Officer Robert E. Yates, who was killed in the line of duty in 1911. Yates is the only Plant City police officer to die in the line of duty. The public is invited to attend the event.

The memorial, which will be placed at his graveside in Oaklawn Cemetery’s east section at 1900 North Wheeler

MORE THAN $73,000 RAISED FOR CANCER RESEARCH AT RELAY FOR LIFE

FOLKS CELEBRATED LIFE AND HONORED LOSS AT ANNUAL EVENT

Street, will remind all who view it of the ultimate sacrifie paid by Yates in service to the citizens of Plant City. It was designed by City of Plant City Cemetery Superintendent

Jeff Black

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

CHURCH GOES ON AFTER DRUNK DRIVER CRASHES INTO MEETINGHOUSE

was about God having everything under control,” said Zambrano.

Hundreds of people gathered at the Florida Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds last Friday night for Relay For Life, a movement of cancer survivors, caregivers, volunteers and participants who raised more than $73,000 to support the American Cancer Society’s mission of saving lives from cancer.

The six hour event included teams and individuals walking or running around a marked track, music, games, food and fun.

One of the top team fundraisers included Knights Elementary, who collected more than $10,000 in donations. Walden Lake, Cork and Bryan Elementary Schools collected more than $5,000 each in donations.

Event Lead Linda Herman welcomed the participants during the opening ceremony. “We’ve gathered here because cancer affects those we love,” she said. “We’re here to celebrate our cancer survivors and remember loved ones lost.”

In addition to the fist lap taken by cancer survivors and luminary ceremony, another emotional highlight of the event was Plant City resident Chad Drigger’s remarks, who

spoke of his son Jace’s battle with leukemia.

“In 2016 our lives changed forever,” he said. Dad was preparing to travel overseas on a mission trip when Jace, who was six years old at the time, woke up with stomach pain. As the pain progressed, the family decided to take him to the Emergency Room. While driving there, the family’s prayer was that it wasn’t appendicitis.

Their prayers were answered. It wasn’t appendicitis. It was leukemia. “We never thought we’d be one of those families whose kids had cancer,” he said. “He fought through the pain of chemo treatments, lumbar punctures and tons of hospital visits, the Lord was with us.”

Jace is now 13 years old and cancer-free.

“The American Cancer Society fighs this horrible evil we know as cancer, by participating you’re helping families like ours fight cancer, you’re helping to fund research,” he said. “Please pray this horrible disease doesn’t affect you.”

Herman praised friends and family who helped make the event a success. “Oh, the great things this money will do,” she said.

To learn more about Relay For Life visit www.RelayForLife.org.

When a member of Iglesia Dios Con Nosotros, a church located at the corner of Mud Lake Road and Highway 60, drove past the building early Sunday morning on his way to work, he was surprised by what he saw.

Damian Rios, a 25-year-old Mulberry man, attempted to elude a Florida Highway Patrol trooper by leading him on a high-speed car chase, at times at speeds upwards of 100 mph. His frantic flight ended when Rios crashed his vehicle into the entrance to the church.

The man contacted Pastor Maria Vargas and told her there was a car sticking out of their building, which they’ve rented for almost fie years. She and her daughter Johanna Zambrano arrived on the scene, unsure if they’d be able to hold their planned service, which included a message by a visiting pastor, in the building.

Her prayers were answered though, because by 11 a.m., the vehicle was towed away, an inspector had examined the building and deemed it safe to enter and hold services there and a fieman had climbed into a front window to unlock the back door (that doesn’t open from the outside) so its approximately 40 parishioners could assemble and commune together and listen to the visiting pastor’s message.

“His message was fitting beause it

If only Rios was in control of his vehicle that evening.

Yellow caution tape now surrounds the damaged entry foyer, which was where they stored their multimedia equipment, a small refrigerator and other items. They held a short prayer service at the church on Tuesday but won’t be able to return until repairs are completed.

Zambrano said the property owner was also on-site after the accident occurred and has been working with the insurance company but doesn’t know when the building will be ready for Vargas and her flock o return. In the meantime, they are looking for another building where they can hold their Tuesday night and Sunday morning services.

Vargas remains optimistic. “I’m concerned but God has everything under control,” she said. “Right now we’re asking God to give us or provide us with a building while the construction is happening.”

Her message to Rio, who she’s not angry at, is one of forgiveness. “We don’t have anything against him, we believe in love and forgiveness,” she said. “We believe God has a purpose for everything and hope he can get to know God and the love He has for him.”

For more information about Iglesia Dios Con Nosotros call 347-605-8084.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

2023 LITTLE MISS PLANT CITY QUEEN & COURT CROWNED

The 2023 Little Miss Plant City Queen and court were crowned last Friday night at Plant City High School. Hosted by the GFWC Plant City Junior Woman’s Club, the contest has been a tradition in Plant City for more than 50 years. Congratulations to the new 2023 Little Miss Plant City Queen and Court!

Queen - Layla Jones

First Maid - Ainslee Elizabeth Creel

Court Member - Molly Jewel Terrell

Court Member - Saylor Porter

Court Member - Genasys Tinsley

SOUTH FLORIDA BAPTIST HOSPITAL EARNS TOP SCORE FOR PATIENT SAFETY

South Florida Baptist Hospital, a BayCare Health System hospital, earned an “A” grade from a national not-for-profit oganization’s Fall 2022 Hospital Safety Grades. The Leapfrog Group assigns letter grades, from “A” to “F”, to nearly 3,000 general hospitals after analyzing data about infections, accidents, injuries and errors. “At South Florida Baptist, the safety of our patients is always our top priority,” said Karen Kerr, South Florida Baptist Hospital president. “Our teams work diligently every day to provide safe, quality care and this “A” grade shows the dedication of our medical staff and eam members.”

RECREATIONAL GULF RED SNAPPER SEASON ANNOUNCED

If you’ve got a boat and a hankering for Gulf red snapper, you’ll be happy to learn that Governor Ron DeSantis announced last week that the recreational season will last a total

of 70 days, including a 46-day summer season and a 24-day fall season, the longest combined season since the state assumed management of red snapper.

“Florida is the Fishing Capital of the World, and the gulf red snapper season brings anglers from across the country to enjoy our waters,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “It is a generational tradition for so many who call Florida home. I’m happy that 2023 will be by far the longest combined season since the state assumed management of red snapper.”

The 46-day summer season will begin on June 16 and will run through July 31. The 24day fall season will include all weekends in October and November, Friday - Sunday.

If you plan to fish or red snapper in state or federal waters from a private recreational vessel, even if you are exempt from fishing liense requirements, you must sign up as a State Reef Fish Angler at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

ELLANY JOHNSON AND PAUL DAVIS RETIRE FROM FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

The Florida Strawberry Festival (FSF) announced the retirements of not only formerPresident Paul Davis but Vice President and Office Manager Ellany Johnson too. The Festival will host a retirement celebration for them on Friday, May 12 beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the TECO Expo Hall on the Festival grounds. Festival staff is asking all thse who plan to attend to RSVP to the Festival Administrative Office at 813-752-9194.

“We encourage everyone to attend,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Kyle Robinson. “Let’s show our love and appreciation for Paul and Ellany in the best way we can, by welcoming friends and family, from far and wide, to fellowship and celebrate them, and all their accomplishments within this industry. We’ve been blessed by their contributions to our Festival, so let’s party!”

OFFICERS RECOGNIZED AT 61ST EAST HILLSBOROUGH LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION DINNER

The Florida Strawberry Festival Exhibition Hall was the safest place in Plant City Tuesday night, as hundreds of law enforcement officers from the Plant City Police Department (PCPD), Florida Highway Patrol, Hillsborough County Sheriff s Office and Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission gathered for the 61st Annual East Hillsborough Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinner. PCPD Senior Office Josh Snyder was presented with Officer of the Year. Snyder has been with the Department since 2007 and during his tenure has served in the Investigative Service Division’s Street Crimes Unit as a detective, working cases involving narcotics, fiearms violations, prostitution and human traffickin Additional departments awarding Officer of the Year awards included:

Florida Highway Patrol: Trooper Wesley Kelly

Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Office: Detective Michael Fernandes

Fish & Wildlife Conservation: Officer Specialist Hunter Caldwell

CELEBRATE MOMS THIS MOTHER’S DAY

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Doting sons and daughters throughout the country are busy making plans to celebrate the moms in their lives on Mother’s Day this Sunday, ordering bouquets of flwers from florits, making restaurant reservations and buying gifts to show gratitude for giving them the ultimate gift: the gift of life, which itself can have so many variations, from the mothers who bore us to the mothers who raised us to the mother-figues who nurtured and loved us.

They may not all be the same person.

Can a gift so grand ever really be repaid? In whatever way we choose, be it through commercial gifts, giving mom the “day off ” from activities like cooking and other household chores or heartfelt written or spoken words, attempt to convey the depth of emotion felt for the moms and maternal figues in our lives.

THANK YOU TO THESE SPONSORS:

Brown’s Jewelers

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Tammy Shamblen

PLANT CITY FIREFIGHER ARRESTED IN RIVERVIEW FOLLOWING ROAD RAGE INCIDENT

the victim to exit his vehicle. At that moment, deputies witnessed Varela continue his assault on the victim.

Varela, who taken into custody and booked into Orient Road Jail, was charged with Burglary of Conveyance with Assault or Battery. Jail records show he was being held without bond Wednesday morning.

KARAH

O

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com

StaffWriter / Michelle Caceres michelle@plantcityobserver.com

Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez

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

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

A City of Plant City Fire Rescue Driver/EMT was arrested on May 9 at approximately 6:19 a.m. near the corner of Big Bend Road and Lincoln Road in Riverview following a road rage incident.

According to Hillsborough County Sheriff s Office, Daniel Varela, 51, cut off the victims vehicle twice, prompting the victim to apply his brakes. Varela exited his vehicle at the stoplight, approached the victim’s car and punched him through the open driver’s door window. The victim attempted to protect himself by rolling up the window but Varela pulled on the glass, prompting

“The despicable conduct demonstrated by Varela is beyond unacceptable and will not be, under any circumstances, tolerated in our community,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “It is particularly egregious when a public servant, who is supposed to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens, engages in this behavior.”

Varela started his career with City of Plant City Fire Rescue on March 13, 2006 and has been employed by the department for 17 years.

“This is a very unfortunate situation,” said Fire Chief David Burnett. “Mr. Varela’s act of violence is not meeting our professional standards as a fiefigher with our organization.”

City Manager Bill McDaniel said his actions are unacceptable within the ranks of team members.

“I’ve taken steps to terminate his employment, it’s a violation of the standards of employees,” he said.

Tuesday, May 8, 2023, the office mascot, Karah, owned by Sarah Holt, loved by all employees, passed away unexpectedly. Found on Highway 60 by publisher, Karen Berry, Sarah was supposed to be her foster mom through Second Chance Friends rescue but discovered that she couldn’t let her go. She came to the office most every day starting the day after she was found, August 25, 2016.

She had a small circle of “friends” that she loved with all her heart, including her Grandma, who passed away in August last year, her Aunts, Karen Berry, Linda Lancaster and Breanne Williams, buddies Juan Alvarez (she guarded his office), Taylor Jenkins and Michelle Caceres, and one of her favorite people on the planet, Eddie Lancaster.

She’s left a hole that will never be filled

TO ADVERTISE Call (813) 704-6850

Advertising / Gail Lyons gail@plantcityobserver.com

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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, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100B.

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

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We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements.

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The Plant City Observer and In The Field magazine suffered a great loss this week.

PUBLIC INVITED TO UNVEILING OF MEMORIAL HONORING FALLEN OFFICER

PLANT CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT TO HONOR OFFICER ROBERT E. YATES, KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY IN 1911.

In attendance will be Yates’ family members, including his great-grandchildren Chet and Chuck Robertson and Brad Yates. Great-granddaughter Susan Dafont, who is unable to attend the unveiling because she’ll be out of the country, said she grew up hearing about her great-granddaddy and his tragic early death. “I think because he was such a hero in our family we’ve kept his memory alive,” she said.

His memory will burn brighter in her family thanks to several old newspaper clippings that Police Chief James Bradford gave her that included details surrounding her great-grandfather’s death. According to a Plant City Courier news story dated November 10, 1911, Yates, a 22-year-old officer with just a few months on the job, was on patrol when he observed a suspicious person near the train depot, now Union Station Depot. When he attempted

to question the man, he refused to cooperate and drew a gun. The suspect fled on oot and Yates gave chase, assisted by a guard at a stockade, two local residents and two bloodhounds. Both dogs were shot and killed when they were sent in after the man. As Yates and the others searched for the suspect, he leapt from behind a tree and opened fie, striking Yates and the stockade guard.

Yates, who was paralyzed by the shot, died at his parent’s house on December 16 at 8:30 a.m., after languishing for more than a month.

The shooter, Lee Armstead, was eventually captured the next day near Dade City. He was tried and convicted of manslaughter but received a lenient sentence.

Yates was survived by his wife Annie Boyette Yates and two children, one-year-old Chester Robert Yates and Viola Yates, who was born between the time her father was shot and his death.

Even though Annie Boyette Yates would later remarry, James Yates, Robert’s father, would pick up young Chester in their Ford Model-T and share stories about his son.

Dafont was given a sneak-peak of the memorial last week and was moved to see her great-great-grandparents’ graves resting right next to their son’s final esting place. “I imagine they endured the way all parents do when they lose a child who gave his life for the greater good,” she said. “I just felt so sad and emotional standing there knowing that ultimately the children carry on one’s legacy and that is me for Robert Yates, which makes me very proud.”

She said her family is pleased that the community, city officials and pole department has gone to such great lengths to honor her ancestor. “It’s not only a tribute to my family but to the community and officers in Plant City,” she said. “They’re all heroes.”

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

SPORTS

DURANT WINS DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP

The Cougars claimed their second consecutive district title behind a stellar pitching performance and a huge home run late in the game.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

After advancing to the 7A District 6 championship with a thrilling 1-0 victory over crosstown rival Strawberry Crest, Durant claimed their second consecutive district title with another razor thin 2-1 victory over another heated rival in Newsome last Thursday. For Durant, it was a chance to claim the rubber match in their season series against the Wolves, dropping their first contest against Newsome 9-4 on March 28 before bouncing back with a 3-1 win a couple of weeks later on April 14. But more specifically for the Cougars’ starting pitcher Preston Rogers, a Plant City High School transfer that wasn’t even on Durant’s roster at this point last year, it was a chance for him to step up and carry his team to a championship over Newsome after struggling against them earlier in the year. While working through an injury, Rogers allowed seven hits and four earned runs over three innings against Newsome in March, his last appearance before being shut down for two weeks mid-season to recover. On Thursday, he saw a chance for revenge.

“Coming into the season I was feeling pretty good, I had some new training and stuff like that, but then I wasn’t really feeling right after the first couple of weeks and I was pushing through an injury,” Rogers said. “The last time I faced Newsome, right before I took my break, I gave up five runs in three innings and I wasn’t really doing my best. Coming into tonight I wanted revenge for what happened. Since I wasn’t healthy I felt like I was cheated out of a shot to get them, so I was looking forward to tonight. I’ve been working my butt off to get back to where I was and to get healthy again and make sure that I’m feeling alright.”

It’s always an extremely familiar battle between the two sides, both teams are filled with players that know each other well — with several playing on travel ball teams together over the years and many still currently playing together in the summer and fall, outside of their respective high school seasons in the spring.

“These games are straight energy because they’re nothing but disrespectful,” junior Noah Morales said with a laugh. “You’re going out there to disrespect the other team and they’re going out there to disrespect you because they’re going to let you hear it at practice, they’re going to let you hear it in the summer on our travel teams. It’s really fun but at the same time you can’t be friends with them on the field. I love them, but you can’t be friends with them on the field.”

In the top of the first, Rogers worked quickly through the top of the Newsome lineup. A bunt right back to him was thrown on to first for the first out of the inning before the Wolves’ next hitter legged out a slow roller for an infield single in the next at bat. Unwavering, Rogers responded by notching his first strikeout of the contest in the next at bat and coaxed a shallow pop fly to shortstop Nick April-Gath to end the top half of the frame and bring Durant in for the bottom of the first. And after a ground ball to third opened the bottom half, junior Devin Suero reached safely with a walk. While Suero was quickly able to move into scoring position by stealing second, he would go no further as a pair of strikeouts ended the Cougars’ threat.

In the top of the second, Rogers was settled in and dealing. Despite a misplayed ground ball putting Newsome’s leadoff hitter aboard, Rogers never wavered as he bounced right back with three consecutive strikeouts to put away the Wolves.

Durant once again threatened in the bottom of the second, starting with a one-out double to right field from junior Pete Oderio, followed by a walk from sophomore Brantley Hayward to put a pair of runners on base. A ground ball to shortstop from junior Tyler MacPherson appeared to set up an ideal double play opportunity for Newsome, but the transfer was bobbled by the Wolves’

second baseman – ensuring no throw to first as they settled for the lone force out at second base, leaving runners on the corners with two outs for Durant. MacPherson subsequently stole second to put runners on second and third, but a clutch strikeout from Newsome once again kept the Cougars off of the board.

Rogers then worked through the top of the third with a pair of groundouts and a fly out to left, aided by a great defensive play from April-Gath up the middle, and Durant similarly went down in order in the bottom of the third as the contest remained scoreless heading into the fourth.

After another perfect top of the fourth from Rogers, an inning in which he clinically struck out all three hitters he faced, Durant was facing their best scoring chance of the evening as Morales opened the bottom half of the frame with a double to left before junior Blain Rowland reached safely by beating out a perfectly executed bunt to put runners on first and third with no outs. But despite the golden opportunity to pull ahead with the game’s first run, a fly ball to center from Oderio marked the first out of the inning before Morales was thrown out at home, trying to score from third. A strikeout in the next at bat then ended the inning as the scoreless battle moved into the fifth.

Newsome put their leadoff hitter aboard for the first time in the top of the fifth but Rogers continued to thwart any opportunity for the Wolves as he worked deeper into the game, notching yet another strikeout in the next at bat before inducing a ground ball back to himself to set up a 1-6-3 double play to end the inning. And in the bottom of the fifth, despite a number of previous scoring chances failing to result in runs, Durant was finally able to break through. After a fly out opened the inning, senior Aidan Welsh beat out an infield hit to reach safely. While Welsh took off attempting to steal second, April-Gath subsequently punched a single through the vacated hole left by the covering second baseman to move Welsh up to third — putting runners on the corners with just one out. Suero pushed Welsh across the plate with a sacrifice bunt up the first base side and Newsome was eventually able to get out of the inning without any more damage, but not before the Cougars took a 1-0 lead.

Rogers opened the sixth by inducing a ground out from Newsome’s first batter but put a runner aboard with a walk in the next at bat. A slow ground ball to third allowed Durant to get the second out of the inning at first but the lead runner was able to move up to second safely on the play, later moving to third on a passed ball. The following at bat resulted in a looping fly ball to right center. Suero and Rowland both converged quickly on the perfectly placed hit and Rowland nearly saved the Cougars’ lead as he fully extended on a diving attempt to make the play, but the ball ultimately fell safely off of the end of his glove — allowing Newsome to knot the contest at 1-1.

But while Newsome may have drawn even with Durant for the moment, the energy from the Wolves’ dugout was short-lived as Morales geared up and blasted a go-ahead — ultimately game-winning —home run deep over the left field fence to open the bottom of the sixth. But for Morales, the monumental moment carried more weight than just the breakthrough run.

“I wasn’t really trying to hit a home run, that’s never really what I’m trying to do, but I knew that they were throwing me off speed because I got ahold of a fastball in my last at bat,” Morales said. “[Newsome pitcher Wade Walton] is a really good player, he’s committed with me to High Point actually, but I knew something off-speed was coming, I sat on it, he threw it in a bad spot and I turned on it. I was thinking double honestly, but I got lucky. It had enough backspin to get over in a big spot and you think about times like that… I’m just so emotional about this game. I couldn’t sleep, I was up at 1 a.m. last night practicing my speech for these guys, you know? It just feels so surreal to round the bases knowing that my team’s on my back and that I’m here for them. It just feels

great to be there for them, that’s what I like the most.”

The Wolves were ultimately able to work through the rest of the inning without issue and Rogers took the mound looking to close out the contest. After a ground out to third base, a base hit to right center put his hope of finishing the game himself in jeopardy as he crept closer to the FHSAA’s 105-pitch limit. A strikeout in the next at bat put the Cougars just one out away from lifting their second consecutive district trophy and left Rogers at 103 pitches — meaning the Wolves’ next at hitter would be the last one he faced, regardless of the outcome. But digging deep, Rogers was able to overpower one final Newsome batter by notching his 11th strikeout to bring his stellar complete game effort to a close.

“Tonight was incredible,” Rogers said. “This was probably the best that I’ve thrown all season. I’m very proud of what I’ve done, I’m really happy that all the hard work has paid off and I’m just happy that we got the win because it’s my first district championship.

And while it was Morales that came up with the big home run to pull Durant ahead late, he went out of his way to praise Rogers’ big-time performance.

“I want to put more praise than anything on my pitcher because he did one hell of a job today and we couldn’t be here if not for him,” Morales said. “He’s a stud, he’s always been a stud and I really appreciate that guy.”

Advancing to the regional quarterfinals as district champions, the 19-5 Cougars opened up regional play by hosting 18-8 Alonso on Wednesday. And across town, despite Plant City narrowly falling by way of a 6-5 final in their own district semifinal to second-seed Bloomingdale — the eventual 6A District 11 champions over top-seed Lennard — the Raiders qualified for a regional quarterfinal berth of their own, making their way across town to face 25-2 Sickles on Wednesday as well.

While both Durant and Plant City played their regional quarterfinal contest on Wednesday, the games were played after the Plant City Observer had gone to press. Further playoff coverage will be provided.

APRIL 2023 Real Estate Transactions

Which narrative do you ascribe to? Last April’s headline, Real Estate Bubble or Supply-Demand Economics? Well, we didn’t have a bubble burst in the previous 12 months, so I believe the economic model prevailed. I hope you have gathered a calm demeanor from this column versus the mainstream media which preys on the emotions of the readers to direct their storyline.

Let’s look at another facet of the real estate transaction, the AS/IS contract: it would appear from the name that the condition of the property is not going to change during the process. This is one of the most misunderstood concepts of this contract, Sellers believe they don’t have to do anything to the property once it’s under contract, but the contract can have several contingencies which may amend the contract, inspection period and finane period being the most common.

The inspection period grants the buyer a period of time to conduct any inspections to their satisfaction and if any discrepancies are discovered, the buyer might ask the seller to correct those items before closing or has the ability to cancel the contract without losing his escrowed funds. If a request is made by the buyer, the seller has 3 options: accept, decline, or counter. The issue becomes compounded when there is a difference in opinion between buyer and seller and it typically surrounds an issue of insurability. Here is a prime example; a 4-point inspection reveals the roof is 14 years old. In the seller’s opinion, he installed a premium roof with 30-year shingles, and it doesn’t leak. The buyer’s insurance underwriter wants a new roof installed, or the premium charged will disqualify the buyer’s lending approval. If the end goal for both parties is to keep the deal together, then it will be extremely helpful if there is an experienced Realtor® involved in the transaction. This was just one example that might take place in the contract process. Buyers and Sellers just need to know that we live by the contract and there are steps which may be taken to keep the deal from going south.

As we look at the Plant City housing data, April 2023, our market area sold 91 homes for the month surpassing the previous three-month average of 73 units per month. That number comprised of 15 new construction homes which should continue due to the new housing developments. The housing inventory is staying around 2 months’ supply, still considerably less than the three to four months average supply needed for a normal market period. Our ADOM, average days on market, last month was 43.3, slightly higher than last month and should maintain this time frame for the next few months or until the mortgage rates stabilize. I have mentioned in previous articles that our market area peaked back in May/June 2022. Since then, we have been seeing small percentage declines and market stabilization over the past eight months. The last two month’s data suggests that we may have reached the bottom in February, but we will continue to report our findins. That in mind: April’s average price of homes was $382,755 a small increase over last month and 5.7 percent gain over the last three-month average. The average price per SF was $200.03 a 1.6 percent gain over last month and a fie percent gain over the previous three-month average. Since we peaked back in May/June 2022, the next couple of months data will tell a better picture. 30-year average mortgage rates came in for the month of April at 6.34 percent.

I’m sorry but I need to take a quick tangent to the conversation. In the process to curb inflation our government bureaus have raised the Fed Rates 10 times to obtain a somewhat fictitious wo percent number — which may be unobtainable — they want unemployment rates to increase into the fie to six percent range, but at the same time they want to raise the debt ceiling for the government spending - it appears they want all the burden placed on its constituents and not cut or reduce their own program expenditures.

So, what about the coming months, people will be buying and selling homes, prices have turned the corner and are rising again. We are progressing into the

spring/summer buying season, typically we have the strongest buying demand during this time, with inventories low and the current lending rates will be the new norm. The supply-demand models will dictate the new market levels.

If you are in the market to buy or sell your home, please seek an experienced professional Realtor® to assist you in this transaction process. There are too many consequences, going it alone without proper representation. If you have any questions, want a market value analysis of your home, or see what’s available to purchase, please reach out.

M Crawford Crawford Group SALES

SNAPSHOT

The following residential properties were a sample listed as sold on the Greater Tampa Realtors Association MLS in April 2023 for the Plant City Market Area.

The home at 510 E Strickland sold April 4 for $150,000. Built in 1976, it has 3 bedrooms, 1 bath and 912 square feet of living area.

The home at 2307 Moody Ave sold April 12 for $160,000. Built in 1954 it has 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and 1026 square feet of living area.

The home at 1306 E Alabama St sold April 28 for $173,100. Built in 1986, it has 4 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1352 square feet of living area.

The home at 1928 Greenwood Valley Dr sold April 18 for $220,000. Built in 2008, it has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and 1632 square feet of living area.

The home at 118 W Lee St sold April 7 for $295,000. Built in 1961, it has 4 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1838 square feet of living area.

The home at 307 Abigail Rd sold April 21 for $315,000. Built in 2002, it has 3

bedrooms, 2 bath and 1445 square feet of living area.

The home at 1205 Camarosa Ln sold April 17 for $339,000. Built in 2004, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1504 square feet of living area.

The home at 2749 Walden Woods Dr sold April 6 for $360,000. Built in 2010, it has 4 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1910 square feet of living area.

The home 103 Lovely Ct sold April 17 for $384,260. Built in 2023, it has 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and 2340 square feet of living area.

The home at 512 Half Mile Rd sold April 27 for $400,000. Built in 1970, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1224 square feet of living area.

The home at 2207 Via Cortona St sold April 5 for $446,000. Built in 2011, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 bath and 2875 square feet of living area.

The home at 2921 Clubhouse Dr sold April 20 for $485,000. Built in 1991, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 bath and 3561 square feet of living area.

The home at 2915 Spring Hammock Dr sold April 24 for $510,000. Built in 1999, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 bath and 2270 square feet of living area.

The home at 4312 Windmill Ridge Rd sold April 18 for $534,900. Built in 2006, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 bath and 2467 square feet of living area.

The home at 2921 Wallace Branch Rd sold April 27 for $587,500. Built in 1999, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 bath and 2099 square feet of living area.

The home at 3034 Sutton Woods Dr sold April 4 for $660,000. Built in 1999, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 bath and 3086 square feet of living area.

Data pulled from GTAR MLS as of 5/4/23 for the Plant City market area.

We asked Plant City: If you were stuck on an island and could only bring three movies to watch, what movies would you bring?

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

Robert Eugene ‘Gene’ Mendonsa

Robert Eugene “Gene” Mendonsa, 93, died Saturday, April 1, 2023 in Kingwood, TX following a brief illness.

He leaves his daughter, Leslie Baisden (Barry); his son, Robert E. Mendonsa, Jr. (Julie); his son, Mark Mendonsa; his son, David Mendonsa (Gretchen); his daughter SunHee Robinson (Brandon); thirteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Born in Defuniak Springs, FL and raised in Plant City, FL, Gene was the middle of three sons born to Arthur A. and Mamie G. Mendonsa. After graduating from Plant City High School in 1947, he attended college at the University of Florida before enlisting with the US Navy in the early 1950s. There he rose to the rank of lieutenant and became a naval aviator. After com-

pleting his naval service, Gene joined the Boy Scouts of America, a job he held for almost 25 years. In July 1963, he married Sheila Fay Bremer. They settled in Greensboro and had Leslie (’65) and Robert, Jr. “Bob” (’66). In 1969, the family moved to Okinawa, Japan where they lived for the next 4 years. During this time, he and Sheila adopted Mark, David, and SunHee from Seoul, South Korea. In 1973, the family moved to Tyler, TX where Gene continued his career with the BSA. He retired as an Executive from the Boy Scouts in 1980 and took a position with Flower’s Baking Company. In 1993, he retired at age 64 and moved back to Plant City, FL to care for his ailing mother.

Gene spent the next 23 years in Plant City, serving his local community and church. As his health began to decline, Gene moved to Kingwood, TX to be closer to his eldest daughter Leslie in 2017. He lived out the next 6 years vibrantly and joyfully, treasuring time with family and friends, until his passing at age 93.

A private family celebration of life is being planned for a later date. Memorials may be made to Naomi’s Village Children’s Home in Kenya. (Naomisvillage.org)

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

Dorothy L. Rice

Dorothy L. Rice, 80, of Valrico, born on Sept. 27, 1942, in Plant City, entered into eternal rest on May 3, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Peter A. Ritchie

Peter A. Ritchie, 75, of Lithia, born on Dec. 15, 1947, in Nutley, N.J., entered into eternal rest on May 6, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Patsy Stanaland Patrick

Patsy Stanaland Patrick, 78, of Plant City, Fla., born on January 31, 1945 in Tallahassee, entered into eternal rest on May 6th, 2023.

BEST BET

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17

CAPITOL COFFEE

8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 1206 N. Park Rd. The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will be hosting another Capitol Coffee event in May, taking place at the John R. Trinkle Center at Hillsborough Community College’s Plant City campus. The event will offer citizens an opportunity to meet with their local elected officia, with a coffee meet and greet beginning at 8:30 and the official ogram beginning at 9. Confirmed epresentatives for May’s event include Lawrence McClure (R - House District 58), Danny Burgess (R - Senate District 20), Michael Beltran (R - House District 57) and Andrew Learned (D - House District 59).

SATURDAY, MAY 13

OPEN MIC NIGHT

7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

Open Mic Night is back at Krazy Kup. Join them for a fun night where you get to be the star of the show. Come out, strut your stuff and shw everyone what you’ve got.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17

FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY

VETERANS

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

THURSDAY, MAY 18

BLIND DINNER EXPERIENCE

6 p.m. at 3005 Thonotosassa Rd. The Plant City Lions Club will be hosting a Blind Dinner Experience at Mt. Zion Church, with proceeds going toward helping the sight impaired. The event will feature a fun and interactive dinner experience where guests will break out blindfolds as they enjoy a meal of spaghetti, salad and bread. Tickets are $15 per individual or $25 per couple and space is limited. For more information, call 813-763-3661.

FRIDAY, MAY 19

IMPROV NIGHT

7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Head down to Krazy Kup for a hilarious night full of side-splitting comedy with Nate & Darren — two KRAZY guys that offer silly, slap-stick family fun for all to enjoy. Admission is free.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN

3 to 6:30 p.m. at 102 N. Palmer St. The Plant City Strawberry Classic Cruise-In is back on Saturday, May 20, rain or shine. Cars and trucks of all makes, models and years can register for free starting at 3 p.m. Live music by DJ John Paul Gasca

FRIDAY, MAY 26

LAST FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN

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

SATURDAY, MAY 27

MORGAN BRAKE & DUCK WALLOW LANE

7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Duck Wallow Lane is a small-town bluegrass band and Krazy Kup is thrilled to welcome Morgan Brake and the whole band back to their stage for the fourth year in a row. Brake is part of the next generation of up and coming bluegrass musicians that is taking fligh, a talented singer-songwriter that is already making waves in bluegrass and Americana across the county. Fresh off f the band performance at the Florida Bluegrass Summit, this is a show that you surely won’t want to miss. Admission is $15 and tickets can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com.

MONDAY, MAY 29

MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION

11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 703 N. Wheeler St. The Plant City Area Democratic Club will host a Memorial Day celebration at the Veterans Monument at Courier Field in Plant City. All are welcome to join as all branches of the United States Military will be represented alongside Strawberry Crest’s JROTC color guard. For more information, contact Brandon Langley at plantcityareadems@gmail. com

SATURDAY, JUNE

3

DOWNTOWN DUCK DERBY

11 a.m. at www.facebook.com/wearemainstreetplantcityfl Plant City Main Street will be live streaming their latest Duck Derby on Facebook! Anyone in the United States who wishes to participate can “adopt” a duck for $5 and there is no limit to how many ducks you can adopt. The races are then streamed live on Plant City Main Streets Facebook page with the owner of the fist place duck winning a $1,000 cash prize. All proceeds from the Downtown Duck Derby will go to Plant City Main Street as they work to revitalize Plant City’s historic downtown. For full details and to officially adoptour duck(s), visit www.plantcitymainstreet.org/downtownduckderby.

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

I LOVE PLANT CITY

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

FORECAST

THURSDAY, MAY 11

High: 94

of rain: 48%

FRIDAY, MAY 12

of rain: 41%

SATURDAY, MAY 13

High: 92

69

of rain: 24%

SUNDAY, MAY 14

High: 93

70

rain: 23% MONDAY, MAY 15

MOON PHASES

RAINFALL

BLUEBERRY

ONLINE Follow us on social media: @PCObserver on Instagram, @PlantObserver on Twitter and Plant City Observer on Facebook.

Ted Chancey took this photo of a massive pine tree towering over Walden Lake in Plant City.

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“We provide compassionate care for you and your family.”

It’s not just an ID badge. It’s a badge of honor.

At South Florida Baptist Hospital, the team members who wear this badge give you high-quality care in a comfortable atmosphere. Our wide range of specialty services includes comprehensive orthopedic care, sports medicine services and total joint replacement procedures. We have a comprehensive gynecology program that offers a variety of women’s services, and our weight loss surgery program meets nationally recognized standards. And if surgery is required, we have surgeons who are experts in minimally invasive robotic surgical procedures, which means shorter hospital stays and smaller incisions that reduce the risk of infection. All of this means you get outstanding, compassionate care right here in Plant City. Learn more: SouthFloridaBaptist.org