6.29.23 PLCO

YOUR HOMETOWN. YOUR NEWSPAPER

City commissioners approve budget amendments for fleet vehicle purchases.

This week’s commission meeting brought local officialsogether to discuss the packed agenda and address a wide range of pressing issues impacting the community.

The consent agenda included authorizing the city manager to execute a utility easement with TECO for

Lift Station 2, the City’s largest lift station that provides almost 30% of the Plant City collection system basin. The improvements to the lift station, located at 960 Pennsylvania Ave., requires the removal of a current TECO power pole that services the station control panels and installation of a transformer and underground power service connection, which are more reliable and durable in the event of a weather-related impact.

HUNDREDS OF DOGS FIND NEW OWNERS AT MEGA ADOPTION EVENT

Another item on the consent agenda included the setting of a public hearing for a final plat entitled Varrea Phase 2A, with an increased potential for 196 residential lots, for the commission meeting on Monday, July, 10 at 7:30 p.m.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Celebrate the Nation’s Independence All Weekend Long At Local Events

DOGS FIND NEW HOMES AS MANY LOVE-AT-FIRST-SIGHT EXPERIENCES SHARED.

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FIREWORKS CELEBRATION SAFETY TIPS

While its best to enjoy fieworks when they’re staged by professionals, Plant City residents wishing to celebrate the holidays with a bang on Independence Day should follow these safety tips:

„ Closely supervise older children, and don’t allow younger children near sparklers or any type of fiework.

„ Keep a bucket of water, a garden hose and/or a fie extinguisher nearby.

„ Remain several feet away from lit fieworks. If a device does not ignite, don’t stand over it to investigate.

„ Don’t wear loose clothing while using fieworks, never light devices indoors or near dry grass and point fieworks away from homes, brush, leaves and flammable substances.

„ Pets are often frightened by the loud noises and light displays so it’s best to keep them indoors with familiar sounds from a television or radio.

2023-2024 PLANT CITY ROTARY CLUB PRESIDENT INSTALLED

the past 30 presidents are active members and we’ve never had one person serve as president twice,” he said. “I’m excited and looking forward to helping as many people in Plant City as possible.”

Last year, it raised more than $270,000 that was donated back to other community organizations.

At the banquet, Rotarian Shaun Bryant was named 2022-2023 Plant City Rotarian of the Year.

For more information about Plant City Rotary Club visit its Facebook page at Plant City Rotary Club.

OPERATION PIT STOP TO SPAY/NEUTER 500 DOGS IN HILLSBOROUGH

The Pet Resource Center and the Humane Society of Tampa Bay each will provide free spay and neuter services, microchips, vaccines and registration for 250 dogs. The program begins July 3 at the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center and July 1 at the Humane Society; both run through August 15. Residents who bring their dogs to be spayed or neutered as part of Operation Pit Stop will also be registered for a drawing for cash prizes; fie winners will be given $1,000 each. For more information or to make an appointment call the Pet Resource Center at (813) 301-PETS (7387) or the Humane Society of Tampa Bay at (813) 252-2023.

TIPS

TO STAY COOL DURING

HEATWAVE

„ Dressing in lightweight, light-colored clothing.

„ Drinking plenty of fluids (this dosn’t mean alcoholic beverages).

CITY COMMISSION EXTENDS TWO PROCLAMATIONS

The City Commission extended two proclamations at this week’s commission meeting. The fist recognized July 2023 as Parks and Recreation Month in Plant City. Before taking a photograph with Parks and Recreation Director Julie Garretson and Special Event Coordinator Ivanna Ibarra, commissioners sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to Garretson and thanked her for the work she and her staff ae doing to improve the physical, mental and emotional health of the community. “We want to congratulate you on a job well done and for making sure we’re enhancing the quality of life in Plant City for residents of all ages,” said Mayor Nate Kilton.

The second proclamation recognized June 2023 as World Vitiligo Awareness Month in Plant City. Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin disorder that causes loss of pigment from areas of the skin resulting in irregular white spots or patches. The proclamation was accepted by Beautifully Unblemished Vitiligo Support Group founder Tonja Johnson.

PLANT CITY MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

The Plant City Playhouse will be holding auditions on Monday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m. at 101 N. Thomas Dr. for its newest production,“The Legend of Frankenstein Unleashed!”, a play by Carlton Jones. Eight adult male actors, six adult female actresses and one male child (age eight to 10) are being sought. Those auditioning will be asked to perform a one to two minute monologue as two different characters. For more information visit plantcityentertainment.com.

SETS IT TO POSITIVE

BEALSVILLE

Last week at Plant City Rotary Club’s annual Installation and Awards Banquet, Bill Hughes was installed as the club’s president for the 2023-2024 year. Hughes has been a rotarian for 10 years and has replaced outgoing president Shawn Jemison (presidents serve a three-year term- one year as secretary, one year as treasurer and president-elect and one year as president). Its new president-elect and treasurer is Kayla Drawdy.

“It’s an honor and a privilege, this particular club is incredible because 25 out of

Plant Citians are waking up Thursday with expected high temperatures in the mid to upper 90’s. Factoring in high humidity, the heat index can reach above 100 degrees, making it more difficultor the body to cool itself. If you work outdoors, it’s critical to remain aware of the heat index and take appropriate precautions. Tips to be prepared, according to floridadsaster.org, include:

„ Never leaving children or pets in a parked vehicle.

„ Slowing down. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day.

Following information that the Plant City Police Department received on June 27 regarding a subject being in possession of child pornography, Criminal Investigation Division detectives served a search warrant at 144 Oakbrook Lane. With the assistance of HIllsborough County Sheriff ’s Office, detectives located child pornography on a device belonging to 40-year-old Gamaliel Santiago-Martinez. Detectives arrested Santiago-Martinez for possession of child pornography and he was booked into the Orient Road Jail. This is an ongoing investigation.

Plant City native and author Beverly Coffee-Vereen held a gathering at the Bealsville Recreation Center last Saturday for a “set it to positive” appreciation day. The well-attended event, in its second year, featured food, fun and a message of remaining positive in tough times. “It’s a reminder to stay positive, you’re going through some rough things but if you can remain positive you got a good chance of making it through all those things with a sound mind,” she said. Plant City resident and event attendee Patricia Love said Vereen’s book, “Set It To Positive,” was inspirational. “Anyone going through things, the book can inspire you,” she said.

SUMMER STAYCATION

Celebrate the Nation’s Independence All Weekend Long At Local Events

8TH ANNUAL ZEPHYRHILLS SUMMERFEST AND FIREWORKS, ZEPHYR PARK

Saturday, July 1, 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.

net.

CLEARWATER CELEBRATES AMERICA, COACHMAN PARK

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, setting 13 colonies on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation. While America’s largest cities are preparing to celebrate our country’s independence (New York City’s two-hour fieworks spectacular costs millions of dollars and draws more than three million visitors a year), you don’t have to travel far to watch a breathtaking fieworks extravaganza that will awe and inspire spectators of all ages.

In fact, you don’t have to travel out of town to celebrate the holiday. Plant City’s 17th Annual July 4th Celebration, will be held on July 4 at the Plant City Stadium (see details below).

“There’s no need to leave when you can experience the meaning of ‘preserving the past and embracing the future’ right here in Plant City,” said Special Events Coordinator Ivanna Ibarra. “The July 4th celebration is an event that our citizens have come to look forward to every year since 2002.”

Even though Independence Day falls on a Tuesday this year, many local cities and towns are hosting their own hometown celebrations beginning July 1 and lasting until July 4 so there’ll be plenty of patriotism and pyrotechnics to entertain even the most die-hard patriots.

4TH OF JULY AT BUSCH GARDENS

TAMPA BAY, 10165 N. MCKINLEY DR.

Friday, June 30 - Tuesday, July 4

Celebrate Independence Day at Busch Gardens during fie days of festivities, complete with an evening fieworks show at 9:30 p.m., featuring a perfectly-choreographed arrangement of music, lights, fie and dancing fountains. The event is included with park admission.

Not satisfied with jut a fieworks show? Enjoy a day of food, fun and fieworks at the 8th Annual Zephyrhills Summerfest and Fireworks festival. This free event features a live DJ, a kids zone with bounce houses, a petting zoo, pony rides, contests and raffles and more. A vendor market will also feature handmade goodies and treats. A 30-minute pyrotechnics display will light up the night sky to cap off the vent.

TAMPA’S BOOM BY THE BAY 2023, JULIAN B. LANE RIVERFRONT PARK

Saturday, July 1 at 4 p.m.

The City of Tampa event has activities for the whole family to enjoy, including a pickle ball tournament, live entertainment, kids games, food trucks, an Apple Pie Bake Off and a fireworks display. Admission is free and even four-legged family members are welcome to attend. Text BOOM to 888777 to receive special notifiations about Boom by the Bay.

Tuesday, July 4, 8 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Clearwater’s free daylong celebration begins with a fitnss class at Baywalk Promenade at 8 a.m. followed by a classic car show featuring vintage cars and trucks, an outdoor vendor market with a DJ and children’s activities, food trucks, plenty of entertainment and a Coast Guard demonstration. End the evening with a fieworks display at 9:30 p.m.

THE FOURTH INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION AT THE ST. PETE PIER, 600 2ND AVE., N.E.

Tuesday, July 4, 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

STAR-SPANGLED SPARKMAN WHARF, 615 CHANNELSIDE DR.

Tuesday, July 4, 4 p.m.

This family-friendly entertainment complex will feature a DJ, roaming entertainment, a water ski show, food and beverages. Enjoy a waterfront view of the fieworks show at 9 p.m. The event is free and open to the public but the venue will be limiting capacity so guests are encouraged to arrive early.

17TH ANNUAL JULY 4TH CELEBRATION, PLANT CITY STADIUM, 1810 EAST PARK RD.

Tuesday, July 4, 6 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

RED,

WHITE + KABOOM INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION, LAKE MIRROR

Monday, July 3, 6 p.m. - 9:15 p.m.

Join the crowd of folks celebrating the nation’s independence at Lake Mirror with entertainment by the soulful sounds of Andrew Luv & the Franchise Players before being wowed with a fieworks display at 9 p.m. Food trucks will will be set up around the lake. This event serves double-duty as a food drive for Volunteers in Service to the Elderly (VISTE) so organizers are asking attendees to bring at least one nonperishable food item.

Got a patriotic outfit? Shae your flair because there will be prizes for the family, adult and child that celebrates the event in their most patriotic attire.

For more information, visit lakeland.gov.

The third annual event is chock full of fun activities for all ages, including a St. Pete Pier Run, Craft Beer Garden, bustling marketplace of local artisans and food vendors (the smells of barbecue and kettle corn will fill the ai), a family fun zone, live music, roaming entertainers and more. A fieworks show will light the night sky at 9 p.m. Tickets are needed for some activities. The grand opening of Coachman Park is really a week-long celebration that begins June 28. For more information visit thefourthstpete.com.

THE HEIGHTS DISTRICT FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT ARMATURE WORKS, 1910 N. OLA AVE.

Tuesday, July 4, 3 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Enjoy a fourth of July celebration while supporting K9s for Warriors, the nation’s largest provider of trained service dogs to military veterans suffering from PTSD. Festivities include a riverfront concert, fieworks display, boat parade, a hot dog eating competition and kids zone. VIP tickets are available. For more information visit armatureworks.com.

This annual family-friendly event is a collaborative effort between the City of Plant City and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. From inflaables to face painting, balloon artist to live entertainment by the Double Barrel Band, there’ll be plenty of activities to entertain the young and the young-at-heart. A variety of food and beverage vendors will be selling their tasty treats, including Smitty’s hand-dipped buttermilk corndogs, Umami Smoke, Boss Lady Southern Eats, Taco Madre, Big Baby Bites, Mad Mango, T & D Aloha shaved ice, Corn goons, Piggy Palace and Citi Ice. The grand final, $20,000 worth of Zambelli fieworks, will fill the sy starting at 9:15 p.m. No coolers or any glass or open containers of any beverages, including alcoholic beverages, are allowed in the stadium. Bags and backpacks are subject to search at the entrance. Admission to the event is free; parking costs $5 per car (parking lot gates open at 5:30 p.m.). In the event of a rainout, the fieworks-only event will be moved to Wednesday, July 5 with the gates opening at 8 p.m.

COMMUNITY RALLIES BEHIND 13-YEAR-OLD DIAGNOSED WITH RARE CANCER

who was diagnosed with central nervous system (CNS) sarcoma in May.

Lisa Taylor, event manager at Big Red Barn Events who organized the event in conjunction with the AlexStrong Foundation, said it was their largest event ever. “Avery’s uncle lives within a mile of us and when I saw on Facebook what they were going through me and my mom decided we needed to do something to try to bring something positive and help the family,” she said.

Taylor reached out to Lori Sumner, founder of the AlexStrong Foundation, whom she had met when Sumner’s son was battling cancer several years ago. “Laurie had a vacation planned the only weekend we could have it but cancelled her plans,” she said.

Local businesses, organizations and individuals rallied together, generously contributing items for the silent auction and raffl Hundreds of baskets overflwing with goodies, Yeti coolers, signed footballs, sports jerseys, hockey tickets, jewelry and concert tickets arrived at the barn up until the day of the event. A 24’ x 24’ pole barn, a processed steer and customized utility trailer were also among the list of donated items.

“It took a lot of planning but it was really easy because so many people came together and offered their helping hands, it was more than we could have ever imaged,” said Taylor. “This experience made me love my community even more and I’m proud to call Plant City home.”

all of the tumor but she’ll need to undergo radiation and chemotherapy and he expects her to be in Tennessee until the end of 2024.

He’s been blown away by the community’s support.

“This situation has been a nightmare but made manageable through the efforts of family, friends and many people that I’ve never even met,” he said. “This is going to be a several year journey and I’m thankful that everyone has rallied around Avery like this.”

It’s heartwarming when a community comes together to support a family dealing with a difficult situatio More than 1,500 Plant City residents came together last weekend at the Big Red Barn to hold a remarkable fundraiser. The event not only showcased the community’s strong spirit but raised an impressive sum of money through a silent auction and raffl for the family of 13-year-old Avery Fales,

With the event less than four weeks away, Sumner created a flyer about the fundraiser and posted it on Facebook. Staples printed 500 copies of the flyer at no charge and they started taking them to local businesses. That’s when the magic started happening.

“Once word got out, Plant City came together and just showed up,” said Taylor. “It was such a huge success.”

She’s quick to point out that the event was a small deed when compared to the battle Avery’s family is waging against the cancer. “Their battle is much bigger really,” she said.

Avery has had three brain surgeries since her diagnosis on May 24. She’s receiving treatment in Memphis at St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Her dad, Jamey Fales, said doctors are confident thy removed

Avery’s mom, Tamara Nash Jemison, said that family and community support they’ve received while they’re living this frightening nightmare has been a humbling experience. “She’s seen all the texts, calls, Facebook posts, care packages and people driving here to sit and pray with us, it just leaves us speechless,” she said. “It’s very heartwarming to know that so many people are loving on our little girl right now, we’re just so blessed.”

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Plant City shows the true power of unity and compassion as residents raise money to support family whose daughter is battling brain cancer.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

JUNE 16

HOLDING NO PUNCHES

2600 block of Thonotosassa Rd.

Battery waiver: An officer met with two individuals who stated that they go into a verbal altercation over a knife. During the verbal altercation, it became physical with both individuals striking each other. Both individuals subsequently signed a waiver of prosecution and left in opposite directions.

A SHOT IN THE DARK

W Ball St. / Thomas St.

Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon: An officer responded to a residence at the listed location in reference to a delayed shooting complaint.

JUNE 17

CAUGHT RED-HANDED

2700 block of Thonotosassa Rd.

Felony petit theft / possession of synthetic

cannabinoids: An officer responded to a business at the listed location and arrested one individual for possession of a controlled sub-

stance and felony petit theft. The individual was subsequently transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

JUNE 18

ON TOP OF IT

200 block of W Alexander St. Grand theft / waiver: An officer met with the manager of a business at the listed location who advised that one of the businesses car toppers was stolen. The topper was later recovered and a waiver of prosecution was signed.

JUNE 19

SHOPPING CART

200 block of E Terrace Dr. Stolen golf cart: An officer responded to the listed location and met with an employee who reported that a golf cart had been stolen.

HOME RENOVATION

1400 block of E Warren St. Theft: An officer met with a victim at the listed location who advised that their three-piece

patio furniture set was stolen from their front patio.

JUNE 20

WINDOW PAINS

2200 block of Village Park Rd.

Criminal mischief: An officer responded to the listed location and made contact with the victim who reported that the front passenger side window of their Jeep was damaged the night before.

HOT STOVE

3300 block of Crescent Peak Way

Grand theft: An officer met with the victim at the listed location who reported two Whirlpool microwave ovens, valued at $535, were stolen from two unsecured homes under construction.

BYE-CYCLE

2000 block of S Frontage Rd. Petit theft: An officer responded to a business at the list location and met with the victim who had his bicycle stolen.

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com

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Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez

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TO ADVERTISE Call (813) 704-6850

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This week on Cops Corner, Plant City Police investigate: A mutual altercation, a stolen golf cart and two missing ovens.

COMMISSION ROUNDUP

During Reports of Officers, Board and Committees, Solid Waste Department Director Jill Sessions presented a request to replace a Front-End Load refuse truck that was totaled as a result of an accident in January after a large pickup truck ran a red light and collided with the city vehicle. The insurance company, which deemed the vehicle a total loss, paid the City $239,848. The replacement truck is a 2024 Peterbilt 520 from Rush Truck Centers of Florida, Inc. that costs $375,994.35. Including the wrecker service cost ($2,585), the difference between the cost of the truck and the insurance payout was $138,731.35, which is available in the Fleet Repair Fund. The commission unanimously approved the request along with an amendment to the budget.

City Manager Bill McDaniel then turned the commission’s attention to vehicle and equipment purchases as a whole, which are approved as part of the annual budget process. While the marketplace for traditional cars and trucks has improved for the average citizen, governments, who require heavier equipment, aren’t as lucky because the market is still highly volatile in

price, parts and availability. Manufacturers are opening ordering windows earlier than usual and, in order to effectively source and secure vehicles and equipment, the Fleet Division asked for approval to purchase items for fical year 2023-2024 ahead of schedule.

The proposed list of vehicle and equipment purchases include 17 police vehicles, one traffic aerial vice, fie commercial front/rear-loading garbage trucks, four pickup trucks and 25 pieces of large equipment including a mobile emergency fuel trailer, sand bagger and compact utility tractor.

Funds for the purchases will be taken from the Fleet Replacement Fund, established to replace vehicles and large equipment that have exceeded their useful life and funded through department lease payments. Commissioners approved the resolution authorizing the acquisitions of the vehicles and the amendment to the Fleet budget for fical year ending September 30, 2023.

During the legislative and quasi-judicial public hearings, the commission heard from an applicant that was requesting a Future Land Use designation change from Commercial and Residential-6 to Residential-20 for a 17-acre parcel located on the

west side of Park Rd. near the new hospital. The request would allow the consideration of up to 362 multi-family dwelling units. A similar request was sought for the site in 2020 but in 2021 the city commission voted to deny the request based on the North Park Road corridor being designated as a commercial corridor as per the Northeast Master Plan. After several lengthy presentations, which included a plan to ensure one acre of land abutting Park Rd. for commercial uses, commissioners, with the exception of Commissioner Sparkman, couldn’t be convinced to approve the request.

“This facility is only 18 acres and to me that’s not a huge commercial identity, with the number of employees in the area I don’t see a problem with it being apartments,” he said. “I think we need them, as indicated we don’t have any apartments north of I-4.”

A quasi-judicial public hearing was then held on an ordinance for a modifiation

to the Coventry Community Unit District, a 1.36 acre assisted living facility located at 415 N. Wilder Rd., to label a detached structure in the rear of the property from storage only to administrative offices and a name change to Coventry Planned Development District. The request unanimously passed.

A resolution approving the final plat entitled Park East Phase 1A creating a 118lot residential subdivision within the North Park Isle Planned Development District was also unanimously approved by commissioners.

Lastly, a resolution was approved by all commissioners to allow a 180-day extension for the property owner of 101-103 N. Palmer St. to commence alcoholic beverage sales. The tenant Brandon Snyder, is remodeling the space and plans to open a new restaurant/bar concept.

The next city commission meeting is Monday, July 10 at 7:30 p.m. in City Hall.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

City commission talks trucks, a new library board member appointed

Hundreds Of Dogs Find New Owners At Mega Adoption Event

DOGS FIND NEW HOMES AS MANY LOVE-AT-FIRST-SIGHT EXPERIENCES SHARED.

we’ve had him since he was a puppy,” said Isabelle.

The noise inside the Charlie Grimes Family Agricultural Building at the Florida Strawberry Festival was booming this weekend but not with the sounds of mooing cows or oinking pigs. Instead, it was filled with the arking, howling and growling of hundreds of dogs from eight municipal and county shelters that were up for adoption at the Petco Love Mega Pet Adoption Event.

Animal lovers from multiple counties started lining up hours before the doors opened Friday at noon to meet the hundreds of dogs available for adoption, hoping for a love-at-fist-sight experience.

Zephyrhills resident Elaine Wade arrived before 10 a.m. and was the third person in line. After entering the venue, she quickly spied a one-year-old mixed breed dog. After spending some time with her in a designated play area, she decided she was going to adopt the pooch and name her Sophie. “I wanted a smaller female dog but they don’t have really small dogs because they get adopted really fast,” she said. “I’m lonely, I’m old and I want something to love and here she is.”

Valrico residents Romaldo and Paula Williams and their son Ryan had been looking for a second dog for months. “We saw this advertised and decided to come out and found a dog,” said Paula. “I sure hope he gets along with our other dog.”

Plant City residents Isabelle and Alexis Aguilera attended the event hoping to find their dog Simba, who’d run away two weeks ago. “We thought maybe he’d be here,

While they didn’t find Sima, they did find Mark a four-year-old bulldog mixed breed dog. “My wife fell in love with him and immediately wanted to take him home,” said Isabelle.

Mark was adopted by the Aguileras. “This is great what they’re doing here but it makes me sad being here,” said Isabelle. “I want to take them all home but we can’t.”

In total 241 dogs from shelters in eight counties were adopted last weekend as families happily filled out adoption aperwork, their faces beaming with joy as they welcomed their new four-legged family members.

Pet Resource Center Division Director Earl Brown, who said his shelter was running at 140 percent capacity for dogs, expressed his gratitude to the team of animal care professionals and volunteers who helped make the event possible and the generous support of the non-profit partners, including PETCO Love, Pet Resource Foundation, Friends of Animals Services- Pasco County, Florida Leaders in Lifesaving, the Team Godwin Foundation and Super Dog Outfiters, that helped with funding to secure the venue and get the word out to residents. “I also want to give a great big thank you to Mozell and Nichole at the Florida Strawberry Festival for hosting us at their amazing venue,” he said.

Brown called the three-day event a success.

“We saved 241 lives this weekend at the Strawberry Festival and as our fist of this size, I couldn’t be more pleased,” he said.. “It was a super success and we plan to do something again next spring.”

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

FTC

Adulting 101

Seminar

Teaches Young Adults About Credit

The government agency educates young people about the importance of starting off on ood financial ooting.

Renter Battles

In a move to equip the younger generation with essential financial lieracy skills, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) hosted a 30-minute “Financial Adulting 101” webinar designed to empower young people to make informed decisions as they navigate the complexities of credit and learn to protect themselves from identity theft and how to spot and avoid scams.

During the webinar, taught by Consumer Education Specialist Terri Miller, she explained what a credit report is, how to obtain a free copy of the report every 12 months from each of three credit reporting companies and why they’re important for detecting financial faud.

“Your homework is to go to annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228 and request your free credit report,” said Miller. “Once you have them in hand, go through each section, making sure your personal information is correct, the accounts listed are the ones you recognize and they accurately reflect hw you’re paying your bills.”

An accurate credit report is important because it affects an individual’s ability to borrow money-and how much they’ll payto borrow money. It also may affect getting a job or insurance or renting a place to live. She told participants to look for signs of possible identity theft, such as inaccurate personal information or accounts they haven’t opened.

To dispute errors on the report, contact the credit bureau reporting the error and the business that supplied the information, who are required to fix it or free. The credit bureau has 30 days to investigate

after a dispute is filed Visit ftc.gov/credit for credit bureau contact information and sample letters.

“The bottom line here is the sooner you work on fixing the mitake the sooner you’ll see the results,” said Miller.

She also explained to teens that creditors use credit scoring systems to figue out if they’d be a good risk for credit cards, auto loans and mortgages. Credit scores usually fall between 300 and 850 and unfortunately, unlike a free annual credit report, there’s no free annual credit score. “A higher score equals “good” credit and a lower score equals “bad” credit and the higher score means you likely pay your bills on time and businesses look at that score for credit risk,” she said.

Individuals hoping for a quick fix o make their bad credit disappear should be wary of credit repair companies promising the world. “Fixing your credit is going to take time and anyone that makes grandiose promises is probably a scammer so walk away,” she said. “The best way to improve your credit score is to pay your bills on time every month and make sure you’re not taking on additional debt.”

If you’re considering using a credit repair company, red flas include: the company insisting you pay them before they help you, telling you not to contact credit bureaus yourself, disputing accurate information on your credit request and encouraging you to lie on your credit and loan applications.

The last website Miller shared was consumer.gov where individuals can find practical information about how to create a budget, tips for buying your fist car and opening a bank account.

In Plant City Apartment Complex

Plant City resident and single mom Carrie Rutter has been living a nightmare, grappling with hazardous living conditions in her apartment and waging a battle against a mold infestation while seeking assistance from housing authorities. She moved into her two-bedroom apartment in Woodbridge at Walden Lake Apartments in May 2019 and receives rental assistance through the Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program. She recognized that something was wrong with the apartment right away.

“My clothes started smelling musty and mold was popping up in my bathroom above the shower head and my daughter started having health problems,” she said. “Maintenance came in, poked it with a screwdriver, told me it wasn’t a problem and just caulked over it,” she said. “The mold kept coming back and eventually the wall felt soft.”

According to Hillsborough County’s website, the mere presence of mold isn’t necessarily a code violation. Florida’s heat and humidity are conducive to growth of the unsightly, and sometimes dangerous, fungi, which, while most are harmless, some can cause flu-lie symptoms or breathing problems.

Plant City’s Code Enforcement website states: “Mold growth itself is not a code violation. However, the presence of mold is sometimes related to building problems that are code violations. Plant City Code Enforcement Inspectors do not investigate complaints of mold inside buildings, unless contributing factors are present such as a leaking roof or leaking plumbing. If you suspect you have mold growth, attempt to identify the cause of the mold. If you are renting or leasing your residence, inform your landlord before contacting code enforcement. If your landlord is not properly responding or fails to address the cause of the mold in a timely manner,

code enforcement may be able to intervene on your behalf. Please note, inspectors will not issue notices of violation for mold growth- only the property maintenance issue causing the mold, if visible.” After three years, frustrated that the property management company wasn’t fixing the issues, she reached out to Plant City Code Enforcement in April about the mold and moisture on the walls and a roach problem. Upon getting the city department involved, a code enforcer inspected her bathroom and noticed the soft spots on the drywall. The property manager hired a contractor to open up the bathroom wall and they discovered a leak from the bathroom of the upstairs tenant. The leaking plumbing was repaired and the wall patched. “It took three years for me to get them to open the wall,” she said. “I am getting tired of hearing it’s not an issue, I still have concerns that there’s mold in my utility closet and this is sucking the life out of me.”

Rutter said her woes aren’t over because the mildew smell still permeates her apartment. While sharing her story on the Next Door app, she had other renters reach out to her to share their problems with mold, rats, roaches and more. “I was putting the pieces together and realized that this is much bigger than just my apartment,” she said.

Brittany Bregnan rented a three-bedroom unit in April. She had lived in the same complex years ago. “I got in there and they didn’t give us a walkthrough, it was vulgar, rat poison on the floo, a strong mold smell, it was absolutely deplorable,” she said. After living in the apartment complex two months, she moved out earlier this month. “It was two months of pure hell and we couldn’t take it anymore, we left our keys on the counter but there are people living there who have nowhere else to go,” said Bregnan. Attempts to contact the owner of the complex were unsuccessful.

MICHELLE CACERES

STAFF WRITER

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

SPORTS

FEATURED FUTURE: MAGGIE LAUBER

Featured Future is a summer series where the Observer will highlight local student athletes who are preparing to continue their athletic and educational careers at the college level, or those who have already begun that journey.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

After four years as a starter with Durant girls basketball, Maggie Lauber will continue her academic and athletic journey at Hillsborough Community College.

Growing up, Lauber played every sport she could — from soccer to golf to lacrosse to softball to basketball starting at four years old. By the end of eighth grade, ready to enter high school, Lauber began to narrow her focus on basketball as her other sports fell to the side as travel and high school basketball took precedence. After a month at Seffner Christian Academy, Lauber transferred to Durant as a freshman and immediately joined the girls basketball team where she was thrust into a starting role as starting senior Kayla Lissy was forced to miss time with an ankle injury. In 21 games played as a freshman, Lauber’s impact became immediately evident as she led the team in points, assists and steals — averaging 10 points per game, 2.2 assists per game and 3.9 steals per game.

“I came to Durant in September and the second I came in they were already starting basketball conditioning and I kind of jumped right into it,” Lauber said. “That season our captain Lissy injured her ankle, it was a really bad sprain and she basically missed the rest of the season, so I had to step up as a freshman and essentially be a captain. I wasn’t labeled a captain but I stepped up as a leader and as a point guard I had to take control when needed and stuff like that.”

As a sophomore, Lauber found action in just 12 games but once again her scoring was notable as she finished second on the team with 169 total points. On a per game average, Lauber finished second on the team with 14.1 points per game while set-

ting team-high marks with 3.3 assists per game and 4.1 steals per game as the Cougars finished the year at 14-7, their highest single-season win total since 2016-2017.

By her third season with Durant, Lauber had transitioned into her role as a captain and full-time starter at point guard. Lauber’s numbers lept forward during that season as her scoring average increased to a team-high 17.5 points per game to go alongside 3.6 assists per game and four steals per game. Part of a stellar junior class that also featured fellow starters Miani Mejia, Ki’Ajanae Gordon and Sophia Flair, Durant finished the year with an incredible 20-5 record, one of the winningest seasons in program history as the Cougars claimed their first district title since 2016-2017 with a victory over rival Newsome in the district finals.

In her junior year Lauber’s dream of playing basketball at the collegiate level began to come into focus as she had her first opportunity to speak with colleges — however the recruitment process wasn’t easy as the COVID-19 pandemic had granted players across the country an additional year of eligibility while college athletics’ new-look transfer portal made it far easier for schools to recruit players that already possessed college experience.

Her success continued through her senior season as she averaged 13.9 points per game, 4.6 assists per game and 4.1 steals per game en route to a 19-6 record for the Cougars.

“It was honestly amazing,” Lauber said. “Freshman and sophomore year we won, but we’d also get our butts kicked by teams that we ended up beating these last two years. It felt amazing, especially doing it with Sophia, Miani and Ki’Ajanae — coming in her junior year. We all bonded so well together and I think we all just felt like we deserved it, especially winning districts our junior year.

We felt like we’d worked so hard since coming in as freshman to graduating as seniors and I know that we didn’t win districts this year but I know we’ll never forget the feeling of winning it our junior year. It really just felt like all the hard work had finally paid off.”

Outside of basketball, Lauber also found high school success on the gridiron as a part of Durant’s flag football team. As a receiver her sophomore year, Lauber led the Cougars with 51.4 receiving yards per game, 32.7 rushing yards per game and five interceptions on defense — scoring a team-high 14 total touchdowns as Durant finished the year at 10-2. In her junior year she transitioned to quarterback out of necessity and once again led the team with 55 rushing yards per game, eight passing touchdowns, three rushing touchdowns and five defensive interceptions as the Cougars slid to 4-7. But as a senior, Lauber’s lead resulted in a quick turnaround to 8-3 as her team-high rushing total jumped to 75.5 yards per game to go along with 16 passing touchdowns, 11 rushing touchdowns, four receiving touchdowns and 10 interceptions on defense. In fact, Lauber received two different offers to play flag football at the collegiate level but opted to keep her focus on basketball.

“I love flag football,” Lauber said. “Honestly, if basketball didn’t work out, I had a few offers for flag which was fun but I knew that basketball was my main sport so I stuck with that. Flag football was definitely a lot of fun, I’ll miss that.”

And after conversations with multiple schools about an opportunity to play at the next level, schools that were ultimately tight on scholarship opportunities, Lauber made the decision to sign her national letter of intent to join the girls basketball team at Hillsborough Community College alongside teammates Mejia and Gordon — an opportunity to continue developing at the college level with the hopes of ultimately finding a

home at a four-year university following her time with the Hawks.

“When I looked at it, I thought maybe HCC is the best option right now and do one or two years there and try to transfer,” Lauber said. “Honestly I think it’ll be good either way, just to get a fresh start and get used to the new life of college basketball… For me, I’m just kind of trusting the process. Obviously the dream for everyone is to start off at a four-year school and that was my dream and I feel like I worked really hard to get there but I’m also accepting the fact that sometimes you have to take a different path into things that you really want. So I’ve come to acceptance with that and I’m just ready to work even harder to get where I want to be.”

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

Public Notice of Intent to Issue Air Permit

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION COMMISSION OF HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

Draft Air Permit No. 0570417-019-AC Evergreen Packaging, LLC Hillsborough County, FL

Applicant: The applicant for this project is Evergreen Packaging, LLC. The applicant’s authorized representative and mailing address is: Glen Flores, 2104 Henderson Way, Plant City, Florida 33563.

Project: This permit authorizes the installation of one new electron beam (EB) dryer on each of the five, web offset lithography press lines. The new EB dryers will be of similar design and capacity as the existing EB dryers. The facility remains a Synthetic Minor source of emissions. Details of the project are provided in the application and the enclosed Technical Evaluation and Preliminary Determination.

Permitting Authority: Applications for air construction permits are subject to review in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 403, Florida Statutes (F.S.) and Chapters 62-4, 62-210 and 62-212 of the Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.). The proposed project is not exempt from air permitting requirements and an air permit is required to perform the proposed work. The Permitting Authority responsible for making a permit determination for this project is the Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County. The Permitting Authority’s physical/mailing address is: 3629 Queen Palm Dr., Tampa, FL 33619. The Permitting Authority’s phone number is (813) 627-2600. Project File: A complete project file is available for public inspection during the normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (except legal holidays), at the physical address indicated above for the Permitting Authority. The complete project file includes the Draft Permit, the Technical Evaluation and Preliminary Determination, the application and information submitted by the applicant (exclusive of confidential records under Section 403.111, F.S.). Interested persons may contact the Permitting Authority’s project engineer for additional information at the address and phone number listed above. In addition, electronic copies of these documents are available on the following web site: https://fldep.dep.state.fl.us/air/emission/apds/default.asp.

Notice of Intent to Issue Air Permit: The Permitting Authority gives notice of its intent to issue an air construction permit to the applicant for the project described above. The applicant has provided reasonable assurance that operation of proposed equipment will not adversely impact air quality and that the project will comply with all appropriate provisions of Chapters 62-4, 62-204, 62-210, 62-212, 62-296 and 62-297, F.A.C. The Permitting Authority will issue a Final Permit in accordance with the conditions of the proposed Draft Permit unless a timely petition for an administrative hearing is filed under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S. or unless public comment received in accordance with this notice results in a different decision or a significant change of terms or conditions.

Comments: The Permitting Authority will accept written comments concerning the proposed Draft Permit for a period of 14 days from the date of publication of the Public Notice. Written comments must be received by the Permitting Authority by close of business (5:00 p.m.) on or before the end of this 14-day period. If written comments received result in a significant change to the Draft Permit, the Permitting Authority shall revise the Draft Permit and require, if applicable, another Public Notice. All comments filed will be made available for public inspection.

Petitions: A person whose substantial interests are affected by the proposed permitting decision may petition for an administrative hearing in accordance with Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S. Petitions filed by any persons other than those entitled to written notice under Section 120.60(3), F.S., must be filed within 14 days of publication of the Public Notice or receipt of a written notice, whichever occurs first. Under Section 120.60(3), F.S., however, any person who asked the Permitting Authority for notice of agency action may file a petition within 14 days of receipt of that notice, regardless of the date of publication. A petitioner shall mail a copy of the petition to the applicant at the address indicated above, at the time of filing. A petition for administrative hearing must contain the information set forth below and must be filed (received) with the Legal Department of the EPC via electronic mail at legalclerk@epchc.org, Phone 813-627-2600, Fax 813-627-2602 before the deadline. The failure of any person to file a petition within the appropriate time period shall constitute a waiver of that person’s right to request an administrative determination (hearing) under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S., or to intervene in this proceeding and participate as a party to it. Any subsequent intervention (in a proceeding initiated by another party) will be only at the approval of the presiding officer upon the filing of a motion in compliance with Rule 28-106.205, F.A.C.

A petition that disputes the material facts on which the Permitting Authority’s action is based must contain the following information: (a) The name and address of each agency affected and each agency’s file or identification number, if known; (b) The name, address, any email address, telephone number and any facsimile number of the petitioner; the name, address any email address, telephone number, and any facsimile number of the petitioner’s representative, if any, which shall be the address for service purposes during the course of the proceeding; and an explanation of how the petitioner’s substantial interests will be affected by the agency determination; (c) A statement of when and how each petitioner received notice of the agency action or proposed decision; (d) A statement of all disputed issues of material fact. If there are none, the petition must so state; (e) A concise statement of the ultimate facts alleged, including the specific facts the petitioner contends warrant reversal or modification of the agency’s proposed action; (f) A statement of the specific rules or statutes the petitioner contends require reversal or modification of the agency’s proposed action including an explanation of how the alleged facts relate to the specific rules or statutes; and, (g) A statement of the relief sought by the petitioner, stating precisely the action the petitioner wishes the agency to take with respect to the agency’s proposed action. A petition that does not dispute the material facts upon which the Permitting Authority’s action is based shall state that no such facts are in dispute and otherwise shall contain the same information as set forth above, as required by Rule 28-106.301, F.A.C.

Because the administrative hearing process is designed to formulate final agency action, the filing of a petition means that the Permitting Authority’s final action may be different from the position taken by it in this Public Notice of Intent to Issue Air Permit. Persons whose substantial interests will be affected by any such final decision of the Permitting Authority on the application have the right to petition to become a party to the proceeding, in accordance with the requirements set forth above.

Extension of Time: Under Rule 62-110.106(4), F.A.C., a person whose substantial interests are affected by the Department’s action may also request an extension of time to file a petition for an administrative hearing. The Department may, for good cause shown, grant the request for an extension of time. Requests for extension of time must be filed with the Legal Department of the EPC via electronic mail at legalclerk@epchc.org, Phone 813-627-2600, Fax 813-627-2602 before the deadline for filing a petition for an administrative hearing. A timely request for extension of time shall toll the running of the time period for filing a petition until the request is acted upon. Mediation: Mediation is not available in this proceeding.

PLANT CITY NATIVE BOB HOBKIRK TO REPRESENT USA TRIATHLON AT 2023 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

The World Triathlon Championships will take place in Hamburg, Germany from July 13-16.

Bob Hobkirk was a dual-sport athlete in his days at Plant City High School, playing quarterback for the football team and a pole vaulter on the track and field eam. On the sidelines, his future wife Donna was a cheerleader.

Now many years removed from his days on the gridiron, Bob Hobkirk is still shining in competition as he will represent the United States in Hamburg, Germany for the 2023 Triathlon World Championships in July — recently qualifying in the 75-79 year old division.

But despite the incredible feat, this is not the fist time Bob has represented his country in international competition.

While an employee at Tampa Electric Company, Bob began distance running in his 20’s as a hobby to stay healthy. Within a few years he would join a local cycling group and a short time later begin competing in his fist triathlons.

“Originally I just picked up running to try and stay healthy because I have a family history of heart disease,” Bob Hobkirk said. “My mother died when I was nine and she was 43 of a heart condition, my brother died of a heart condition so I always felt like I needed to stay in good condition with my family medical history but I really didn’t start triathloning until later. I saw IronMan on TV, that was when I really got interested in maybe trying to do one. I originally started biking with a group in Brandon, there was maybe 20 of us, and they were pretty serious bikers so we all pushed ourselves. After doing that for a few months I signed up for a triathlon and ended up placing. After that I was like, ‘holy cow, I can actually place and do these things.’ I don’t really have a running or swimming or biking background where some people were collegiate swimmers or bikers or runners and I didn’t have that background, so I was surprised that I was able to compete and place. Then I really started working on it.”

Upon the suggestion of a fellow TECO employee, Bob and Donna — along with a group of colleagues — formed a Dragon Boat racing team. Finding success, the group was able to compete all throughout the state of Florida and in competitions as far away as New York. As Bob continued to compete in various competitions that ranged from marathons to triathlons to IronMan competitions, the couple eventually relocated to Satellite Beach, Fla.

Beginning in 1994, Bob Hobkirk completed the fist 10 Walt Disney World Marathons. In 1997 he participated in his fist IronMan competition in Clermont, Fla., winning the master’s division before heading to Canada for another IronMan Competition where he qualified or the IronMan World Championship in Hawaii.

In 2018, he and a coworker completed the Great Divide Mountain Bike Ride — the longest off-pavement route in the world, crisscrossing the Continental Divide throughout southern Canada and the U.S. Totaling over 200,000 feet of elevation gain, the GDMBR is Adventure Cycling’s premier off-pavement cycling route with the entire road consisting of dirt-road and mountain pass riding. In total, Bob Hobkirk has completed six IronMan competitions, more than 20 marathons and more distance competitions than he could guess. After joining a new Dragon Boat Racing group closer to their new home, both Bob and Donna ultimately qualified o represent the United States at the World Dragon Boat Championships in Thailand in 2019 where the couple each became part of the fist men’s and women’s senior teams to ever medal for the United States — with Donna winning three gold medals and Bob winning eight.

Bob Hobkirk fist qualified or the USA Triathlon team in 2019 after competing in the Waco Ironman in Texas and the USA Triathlon National Championships in Cleveland, Ohio, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Championships were cancelled in 2020 and 2021. So in 2022, Bob Hobkirk made his way back to Waco where he once again qualified or the national team, giving him the opportunity to compete internationally for Team USA for the fist time next month.

“That’s something that I’ve been waiting three years to finally d, to compete on the team, because I’ve been on the team now for three years,” Bob Hobkirk said. “When I got that letter from Team USA saying that I’d made the team, I was pretty proud to see that and to get the uniform, it’s got USA on it and your name on it. It’s a great feeling, that’s for sure. To be able to go and represent your country at a World Championship like that.

THE WORLD TRIATHLONCHAMPIONSHIP SERIES WILL TAKE PLACE FROM JULY 13 THROUGH JULY 16.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

We asked Plant City: How do you celebrate 4th of July?

“With my mama! It’s her birthday.”Deniece Doxey Magglos

“By remembering its ‘Independence Day’ and what that represents… being grateful to all those who have fought for that Independence that we celebrate and not just calling it a day of the month… my two pennies.” - Jimmy Mordan

“At home with my dogs.” - Loriann Drew Abate

“Stay home.” - Chris Black

“Staying safe at home not polluting the air and covering my dog’s ears.” - Kelly Sunflower

“Parking lot, gator, twisted tea.” -

Enrique Rangel

“Setting fieworks off and bumping music all night and scrolling community pages reading peopling complaining all night about it!” - Mike Acevedo

“Working. Hospitals doesn’t close. It’s for the dummies who blows their finers off. Sad truth what Plant City turned into.” - Brandon Clark

“Trying to keep a noise-sensitive old dog calm while idiot neighbors set off fieworks for two days straight.” - Sarah Hardy

“Sit with the family and pups and wonder if that was a fiework or something else?” - Kim Conrad

ST. JOSEPH’S CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FOUNDATION’S ANNUAL

JULY 1–28

Meet Aubrey

When Aubrey was 6, she was diagnosed with stage IV rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare type of cancer. While the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital medical team treated her cancer, the Child Life Specialists team helped her deal with the anxiety that can come from being in the hospital, using toys and fun activities. They made sure Aubrey felt loved, comfortable and safe. Now, Aubrey delivers toys to other kids in the hospital to help make their stay a little less frightening.

Be a bright light for children like Aubrey during what can be an overwhelming time in their lives. Making a donation during the Christmas in July event is a way to give kids comfort and help them cope while they’re in the hospital.

You can help: StJosephsChristmas.org

Aubrey Rhabdomyosarcoma patient, age 9

Samuel Lloyd Frierson

Samuel Lloyd Frierson, 86, a native of Plant City, Fla., born on Dec. 24, 1936, passed away peacefully at home on June 21, 2023.

He was a devoted and loving husband and family man. He always enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid fisherman often mentoring younger guys after retiring. He began with TECO as a lineman and advanced to Superintendent of Distribution before retiring after 40 years. He maintained a close bond with his many TECO friends. He was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church and the Plant City Planters Class of 1954-where he played football and baseball. He attended Florida State University. He loved watching sports, especially FSU football, with his wife. He had many lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Timothy Lawson and Willie Belle Frierson and his sister, Dorothy Thornberry. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Sara Beth McLaughlin Frierson; children, Becky Smith (Rick), Mike Frierson (Lori) and Joe Frierson (Angie); fie grandchildren and three great-granddaughters; several close nieces, nephews, and cousins.

His family would like to express appreciation to Dr. Parekh, Watson Clinic Plant City, and LifePath Hospice for compassionate care. Funeral services were held June 28, 2023 at Hopewell Funeral Home, 6005 South County Road 39, Plant City.

In lieu of flwers, memorial contributions may be made to the Florida Baptist Children’s Home at https:// www.fbchomes.org.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Betty Jean Durrance

Betty Jean Durrance, 84, of Plant City, born on Jan. 3, 1939, in Blackshear, Ga., entered into eternal rest on June 20, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Marie Jenkins, 73, of Lithia, born on Sept. 6, 1949, in Plant City, entered into eternal rest on June 21, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Carolyn June Humphrey

Carolyn June Humphrey, born Dec. 31, 1939 in Va., passed away peacefully with family on Thursday, June 22, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

Gloria ‘Glo’ Hurt Majors

Gloria “Glo” Hurt Majors, 84, of Lakeland, born on March 27, 1939, in Roanoke, Va., entered into eternal rest on June 23, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Johnny E. Losh

Johnny E. Losh, 78, of Lithia, born on May 26, 1945, in Poplar Bluff, Mo., entered into eternal rest on June 18, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Oral L West

Oral L West, 86, of Plant City, Fla., passed away on Thursday, June 22, 2023.

Oral was born on March 2, 1937.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www. WellsMemorial.com for the West family.

BEST BET

TUESDAY, JULY 4

JULY 4TH CELEBRATION

Coordinated by the Plant City Recreation & Parks Department and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, the skies above Plant City will once again fill with fireworks this July 4th. The celebration will take place on Tuesday, July 4 at Plant City Stadium, 1810 E. Park Rd. Parking lots will open at 5:30 p.m. and the gates will open at 6 p.m., with several activities available on the stadium’s turf. Family-friendly activities offered will include inflaables, face painting, Corn Hole, tug-o-war and more, in addition to stadium concession stands and various venders inside the stadium and along the perimeter of the field At 9:15 p.m., a spectacular 20-minute Zambelli fieworks display will begin. Admission to the event is free with a parking cost of $5 per car. As it is a cash event, all are advised to bring cash for parking and vendors as no ATMs are available on-site.

FRIDAY, JUNE 30

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. June’s theme is The 80’s!

SATURDAY, JULY 1

BLUEGRASS JAM

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

WEDNESDAY, JULY 5

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS WITH ESTRANGED FAMILY

6:30 to 8 p.m. at 1107 Charlie Griffind. Join other parents who are estranged from their adult children. PEAK (Parents of Estranged Adult Kids) group provides a

safe place to listen, share and support others going through the hurt of adult family abandonment. Meetings will include group discussions, self-care and positive inflenced activities to help cope with the situation. PEAK is not appropriate for abusive relationships or mental illness. Meetings are the fist Wednesday of each month at GracePoint Church. For more information, visit www.peaksupportgroup.co

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.

SATURDAY, JULY 8

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.

FRIDAY, JULY 14

SATURDAY, JULY 15

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, July 15, 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.

CHICKEN DINNER FUNDRAISER

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

THE

BEST

LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS

8 p.m. at 101 N Thomas St. In arrangement with Concord Theatricals, Plant City Entertainment presents The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas — a broadway musical originally written by Carol Hall, Larry L. King and Peter Masterson. Plant City Entertainment will hold nine different showings throughout the month of July, with showings at 8 p.m. on July 14, July 15, July 21, July 22, July 28 and July 29 and showings at 2 p.m. on July 16, July 23 and July 30. Admission will cost $23 for adults, $18 for seniors 60+ or students, $16 for members or groups of 10+ and will hold an opening night special with two tickets for $25 on July 14. Tickets are available online with limited tickets available at the door for each performance. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. plantcityentertainment.com.

12 to 2 p.m. at 1501 N Alexander St. The Plant City Elks Lodge #1727 will be hosting a chicken dinner fundraiser. The afternoon meal will feature barbecued chicken quarters, baked beans, coleslaw and a roll while dessert will be included and provided by the Ladies of the Elks. Attendees are required to be pre-paid and orders can be placed through any local Elks member or by calling the Elks Lodge any day after 4 p.m. at 813-752-2822.

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, JUNE 29 High: 97

73 Chance of rain: 9% FRIDAY, JUNE 30

97

73

of rain: 9% SATURDAY, JULY 1

97

76

SUNRISE/SUNSET

20%

96

MOON PHASES

76

Source:

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

Kathy Flemister snapped this photo of a hibiscus blooming in her Plant City backyard.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

From minor to major, get the right level of care from BayCare.

We give you several options for care so you can feel better fast.

When you’re sick or hurt, waiting to get care isn’t an option. BayCare has many convenient care choices so you can be treated quickly. And the sooner you get the right treatment, the sooner you’ll feel better. You’ll find all the levels of care for all minor or major needs at the convenient BayCare locations in Hillsborough County. To learn more: BayCareGetCareNow.org

If you have a life-threatening injury or illness, call 911 immediately or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Levels of Care

Primary Care Walk-In Care at Publix

Emergency Room

Six Urgent Care Centers

Group BayCare Urgent Care

With over 70+ medical providers, BayCare Medical Group is Tampa Bay’s leading multispecialty physician group.

When you or your child gets sick, you need care right away. For just $59 per visit, you can see an online doctor 24/7 using the BayCareAnywhere app.

Twelve Walk-In Care Locations at Publix

Located inside select Publix pharmacies, video chat with a board-certified doctor, pick up your prescriptions and shop for groceries all in one convenient place.

To discover all the BayCare locations near you, go to BayCareInHillsborough.org or scan this code.

For minor aches, pains, sprains and strains, we treat adults and children age 2 and older. With six convenient locations across Tampa Bay and the surrounding areas, you can walk in or use our Save Your Spot tool.

Five Emergency Departments