7.13.23 PLCO

JULY 10 COMMISSION ROUNDUP

Agenda items included formation of an audit committee, a sidewalk project and an adjustment to the Plant City Commercial Historic District.

MICHELLE CACERES

STAFF WRITER

Following the special commission meeting to discuss the 1914 building, the commission held its regularly scheduled meeting Monday night to discuss several items of city business.

A resolution was approved to establish an auditor selection committee for the purpose of recommending an external audit firm who will conduct the City’s annual financial audi, to the city commission. Florida Statutes require that the commission establish the committee, which consists of at least three members, with one member being a member of the City Commission, who

CITY COMMISSION REJECTS RFP BY EHHS, WILL CONSIDER LEASE AGREEMENT

will serve as chair. Mayor Kilton, himself a certified public accountant, volunteered to serve as chair. A motion was made and commissioners unanimously agreed to appoint him as chairperson. Other members appointed include Dan Raulerson, Ryan Bontrager and Matt Buzza.

A 1.9 mile sidewalk project was discussed, funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The sidewalks will be installed at Woodrow Wilson St. from the railroad crossing to Airport Rd., on Sammonds Rd. From Woodrow Wilson St. to Alexander St.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

BASH

TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

Hope Lutheran Church joyfully invites the Plant City community to join them for a free Back To School Bash at 2001 N Park Rd. on Saturday, July 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All participants will received a complimentary backpack filled with chool supplies for the new year. Sponsored by Hope’s Missions and Outreach Ministry team, the event will feature ice cream, cookies, games and crafts, designed to help parents in these financially difficult ys to help equip their children for the upcoming school year while providing a time of fun in a safe environment. Also, Plant City Police and Fire Rescue and the Hillsborough County Sheriff s Office will be joining Hope for the event. For additional information, contact the church office at 813-752-4622.

Hundreds of empty chairs filled theTrinkle Center Monday night at a special city commission meeting where it considered the only Request for Proposal (RFP) submitted by the non-profit ast Hillsborough Historical Society (EHHS) relating to the restoration of the city-owned 1914 Plant City High School Community Center.

The approximately 50 people in attendance listened as EHHS President Shelby Bender detailed the RFP

proposal, which included a plan to create two teams (the Restoration Advisory Team and the Remediation Advisory Team) which would work to restore the building in three phases. The initial phase of the plan would consist of making much-needed roofing epairs and waterproofing the tructure which would be completed with a $1.5 million windfall secured from Hillsborough County’s 2022-2023 budget that will be awarded to the City of Plant City.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

MICHELLE CACERES

STAFF WRITER

HOPE LUTHERAN WELCOMES MOBILE FOOD PANTRY/BACK TO SCHOOL BASH

Anyone in need of grocery assistance is encouraged to attend Hope Lutheran Church’s “Moving Hope” mobile food pantry, located at 2001 N. Park Rd.) on Thursday, July 20 at 6 p.m. The pantry, in association with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Lakeland, will distribute food to those in need until they run out of supplies. Various pantry staples are available as well as vegetables, metas, dairy products and baked goods. No identifiation is required to receive food. In addition to the mobile food pantry, the church’s Missions and Outreach Ministry is hosting a free Back to School Bash on its campus Saturday, July 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is designed to help parents equip their children for the upcoming school year. All participants will receive a complimentary backpack for the new school year filled with chool supplies. Participants will also be treated to ice cream, cookies, games and crafts. The Plant City Police Department, Plant City Fire Rescue and Hillsborough County Sheriff s Office will also be on-hand at the event.

“With all of the pressures on parents and students today, if we can take just one thing off the lit of backpacks and school supplies, we’re thrilled to be of assistance,” said Reverend Dean Pfeffer. “We’re excited to give back and open our campus to the community to kick back, relax, enjoy some ice cream and get the needed school supplies for their children to succeed in school this coming year.”

For more information about either event, contact the church office at (813) 7524622.

SECTION OF TURKEY CREEK RD. TO CLOSE FOR REPAIRS

Hillsborough County Public Works Department has scheduled a road closure of the northbound and southbound lanes of Turkey Creek Rd. from Reece Rd. to Sydney Rd. beginning July 17 at 7 a.m. to July

30 at 6 p.m. The project includes replacing a corrugated drainage pipe and repaving the roadway.

STATE ATTORNEY SUZY LOPEZ, LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS HIGHLIGHT DRAMATIC RISE IN FENTANYL-RELATED ARRESTS

According to Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez, in the last fie years, the number of fentanyl-related arrests in Hillsborough County has risen by 1,300 percent.

“Our law enforcement partners have been cracking down on the criminals who choose to deal fentanyl on the streets of Tampa Bay,” said Lopez, whose office vigorously prosecutes these cases. “Real people and real families are losing loved ones to this deadly poison. We stand with the victims and promise to relentlessly pursue every avenue we can to ensure drug dealers pay for their crimes.”

Lopez spoke earlier this year in Tallahassee in support of harsher penalties for fentanyl traffiers. House Bill 1359 was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, which imposes additional penalties, including the possibility of a life sentence, for fentanyl-related crimes when the drugs are made to look like candy. If convicted, those who traffic in such sstances face a 25-year minimum mandatory sentence.

At a press conference this week, Sheriff Chad Chronister said fentanyl’s fatal grip on citizens needs to come to an end. “If you know of anyone selling these illegal substances, please contact us immediately,” said Chronister. “You can also report and share information anonymously with Crime Stoppers or tip411.”

FREE PROGRAM OFFERS HELP FOR CAREGIVERS OF PEOPLE WITH MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Family-to-Family (F2F) is a free, educational program for families, signifiant others and friends of people with mental health conditions. It’s a designated evidence-based course meant to help attendees understand and support their loved ones living with mental health conditions while maintaining their own well being. The class will be held Saturday, July 15, 22, 29 and August 5 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at AdventHealth, located at 3100 E. Fletcher Ave. in Tampa. For more information or to register visit bit.ly/F2FJuly2023.

TAX TIPS FOR NEW PARENTS

Kids are expensive. Whether you just brought a bundle of joy home from the hospital, adopted a teen from foster care or are raising a grandchild, several tax

breaks can help with the cost. Tips for new parents include:

* Get the child a Social Security or Individual Tax Identifiation number. This allows the caregiver to claim parental tax breaks.

* Check withholding, because a new family member might make taxpayers eligible for new credits and deductions which can greatly change their tax liability.

* Check eligibility for several tax credits and deductions, including the Child Tax Credit, Child and Dependent Care Credit, Adoption Tax Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents. For more information visit IRS.gov.

STUFFED ANIMALS CAN EARN THEIR WINGS

Stuffed animals (yep, you read that right) looking for a sense of adventure can get their wings thanks to a fun program offered at Florida Air Museum in Lakeland. Two sessions are offered: August 4-5 and August 5 -6. Parents can register their children’s favorite stuffed animals for Stuffed Animal Flight School. The child and their animal will attend a mandatory orientation (which will include a photo, presentation and video of the activities the stuffed animals will be “participating in” while at flight chool) and leave them with their experienced team of aviation professionals. The following day, the child will pick up their newly winged pilot with their log book to be used for future flighs, the photo from orientation and a set of wings for the animal and the child. For more information go to eventbrite.com and search Stuffed Animal Flight School.

Turkey Creek Rd. closure map and detour route.

SUMMER STAYCATION

With scorching temperatures hitting the town, finding a loal pool to cool off has become a top priority for some residents. Some people are lucky enough to have a pool in their own backyard (or better yet have friends who have a pool in their backyard). However if you’re not that lucky and still feel the need to lounge by a splash pad or pool, there are several locations nearby where your family can enjoy a refreshing oasis to beat the heat without breaking the bank. In addition to being great places for cooling off on a hot dy, they’re also a place to get a little exercise (swimming offers a full-body workout), gets families outdoors and gives kids an opportunity to make new friends.

So grab your swimsuit, towel and sunscreen and spend the day sharing quality time together before school starts.

CITY OF LAKELAND POOLS

Lakeland offers two community pools

(Gandy Pool located at 404 Imperial Blvd. and Simpson Pool located at 1725 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave.) with multiple lap lanes, a diving board and shower/changing rooms. Hours of operation vary. At just $4 per visit/guest, a family can enjoy a day at the pool for a song. For more information visit lakelandgov.net.

BARNETT FAMILY PARK, 730 E. ORANGE ST., LAKELAND

Located at the top of Lake Mirror Amphitheater, this park features a splash pad, a playground, a labyrinth, a covered picnic area, restrooms and a multi-purpose field The splash pad is open daily from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. but is closed on Wednesdays for maintenance.

LAKE EVA AQUATICS CENTER, 321 S. 6TH ST., HAINES CITY

This water park is home to a kids’ play area with a zero-depth entry lagoon pool, water slide and splash pad. The center is also home to a competition pool with six, 25-yard lap lanes.The center is open daily from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Daily admission fee is $5 per person and applies to all guests ages three and older. For more information visit hainescity.com.

CURTIS HIXON WATERFRONT PARK, 600 N. ASHLEY DR., TAMPA

With two splash pads offering hours of fun and a great way to cool off, it’s easy to see why Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is so popular with the kids. The free park also offers a shaded play area with equipment, a fenced-in dog park and an open area perfect for a game of tag. The park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Take the plunge and dive into a community pool or play at a splashpad. TILE

WATER WORKS PARK, 1710 N. HIGHLANDS AVE., TAMPA

This riverfront park near Armature Works, a downtown food hall, features open, green space, a dog park, covered and shaded picnic areas, a playground (complete with a spring-loaded dolphin teeter-totter, a rope climber with a crow’s nest pirate tower and more) and a splash pad, which includes an enormous bucket drop that regularly tips and drenches everyone nearby. Even though its name might suggest this is a water park, it’s a city park so there’s no admission fee. The park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

JULIAN B. LANE RIVERFRONT PARK, 1001 NORTH BLVD., TAMPA

Located just north of the University of Tampa and across the Hillsborough River from the David A. Straz Center for the Performing Arts, this park features a community event pavilion and lawn, a plaza with game tables, a dog park with separate sections for large and small breeds, picnic shelters, athletic facilities and a playground and splash pad. Shaded areas allow families to enjoy the park even on hot summer days. The park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

METRO LAGOONS

With two locations to choose from16881 Lagoon Shore Blvd. in Wimauma and 31885 Overpass Rd. In Wesley Chapel- Metro Lagoons locations offer acres of beach-lined crystal clear water, a waterslide and access to a resort-style swim up bar. Additional experiences that can be booked separately include a water obstacle course and kayak and paddle board rentals. Lagoon hours vary by day and location. Day passes range in price from $20 - $45 per day and advance sales are strongly recommended due to capacity limits. For more information visit metrolagoons.com.

ADVENTURE ISLAND, 10001 N. MCKILEY DR., TAMPA Tampa’s largest waterpark has something for everyone. A splash and play zone for the little ones? Check. A variety of heart-pounding waterslides? Check. A lazy river? Check. A 17,000 square-foot wave pool? Double check. While this is the most expensive option on this list, the park offers a fun card so visitors can enjoy unlimited free visits until December 31. For more information visit adventureisland.com.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

COPS CORNER

RAZOR’S EDGE

900 block of Valencia Rd.

Aggravated battery: An officer met with one individual at the listed location who stated that he gave another individual a ride home. Once home, the second individual pulled a machete and tried to stab the fist individual. The fist individual then stated that they ran home and locked the door, advising that they did not want to press charges before signing a waiver of prosecution.

WRONG PLACE, WRONG TIME

E Spencer St. / N Shannon Ave.

Warrant arrest: An officer made contact with one individual while conducting a possible theft. An FCIC/NCIC check was completed and showed the individual to have an active warrant out of Polk County for petit theft. The warrant was confirmed and the individual as subsequently transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

SECURE THE BAG

900 block of Valencia Rd.

Theft waiver: An officer met with the victim at the listed location who stated that they placed their purse containing the keys to her new vehicle on their porch while she ran inside to grab something that she forgot. Upon exiting

the residence, she found her purse was missing. A waiver of prosecution was signed.

JULY 1

TOO TIRED

2600 block of James L. Redman Pkwy.

Criminal mischief: An officer met with the victim at the listed location who reported that their tire had been slashed.

JULY 2

BREAKING BAD

1300 block of W Redbud St.

Vehicle burglary: An officer met with the victim at the listed location who advised that their vehicle had been burglarized overnight.

STICKY FINGERS

200 block of W Alexander St.

Theft: An officer met with the store manager of a business at the listed location who advised that merchandise was stolen.

UNLOCKED AND LOADED

1600 block of Jim Johnson Rd.

Structure burglary: An officer met with the victim at the listed location who advised that they had possibly left a storage unit unlocked,

O

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com

resulting in the theft of two boxes of Christmas decorations and a three-wheeled scooter missing from the unit — valued at $100 in total.

JULY 3

DINE AND DASH

2000 block of S Frontage Rd.

Petit theft: An officer responded to a restaurant at the listed location in reference to a theft of services.

JULY 4

CAR TROUBLES

3000 block of Via Sienna St.

Stolen vehicle: An officer responded to the residence at the listed location and met with the victim who reported that their unlocked vehicle was stolen.

SODA POPPED

4600 block of E Eastwind Rd.

Residential burglary: An officer responded to the listed location and met with the victim who reported that a back window to the residence had been broken, resulting in soda stolen from the refrigerator.

StaffWriter / Michelle Caceres michelle@plantcityobserver.com

Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez

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

TO ADVERTISE Call (813) 704-6850

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CONTACT US

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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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JULY 10 COMMISSION ROUNDUP

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

and Airport Rd. from Woodrow Wilson St. to National Guard Dr. The city commission authorized the city manager to execute a work order with Patel, Green & Associates LLC to perform a survey and sidewalk location evaluation at a cost of $85,729.51.

“Part of the reason the cost is so high is because of some of the complexities involved, right-of-way and railroad crossings complicate the design,” said City Manager Bill McDaniel.

Commissioners agreed that the project is necessary for public safety.

“During the Strawberry Festival I travel that way a lot and this will make it much more safe,” said Commissioner Sparkman. “School kids also go back and forth this way so I’m glad to see this.”

Commissioners recognized the stellar work of staff that ontributed to a successful fourth of July event, where 48 vendors set up booths, more than 40 people volunteered their time, 28 sponsors participated with financial ontributions totaling in excess of $23,000 and approximately 7,500 residents watched a 21-minute fiework show.

“City staff did an amazing jo, it was a wonderful event, just being there and seeing the stadium full of people smiling and having fun,” said Commissioner Jones.

HILLSBOROUGH TRUCK ROUTE PLAN

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Commissioners then discussed an ordinance amending the boundaries of the Downtown Plant City Commercial Historic District to remove four city-owned vacant parcels, the site of the Wheeler Street Station project.

On June 20, the Historic Resources Board voted to recommend the city commission deny the ordinance. Planning and Zoning Coordinator Robyn Baker offered staff ecommendations about the project. “This parcel is surrounded by properties not in the historic district,” she said.

“Staff ecommends the city commission adopt an ordinance approving the removal of the parcels from the historic district.”

During public comments, two residents expressed their disapproval of removing the parcels from the historic district.

Commissioner Sparkman made a motion to adopt the ordinance removing the parcels from the historic district with Commissioner Dodson seconding the motion. It passed with a four to zero vote (Mayor Kilton abstained due to a conflict f interest).

The last agenda item was approving the final plat or Varrea Phase 2A, creating a 196-lot single-family residential subdivision with 38 singlefamily detached dwellings and 158 paired villas (79 villa buildings) which easily passed by a unanimous vote.

The next commission meeting is Monday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall.

Wanna weigh in on the county’s truck routes?

Now’s the chance because Hillsborough Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) and Hillsborough County officials e asking citizens to participate in a survey about trucking activity. The County’s Truck Route Plan is being updated with the goal of of improved safety for all road users and reduced environmental impacts, so essentials like food, medication, and fuel continue to flw and quality of life for residents is preserved.

The purpose of the survey is to learn about citizen experiences and perspectives as they’ve interfaced with heavy trucks, semi-trucks, delivery trucks and other large freight carrying vehicles. Additionally, participants can suggest solutions to issues or other considerations regarding truck routes.

Plant City roadways included in Hillsborough County’s Truck Route Plan include E. Knights Griffind., Medulla Rd., E. Sam Allen Rd., Charlie Taylor Rd., Paul Buchman Hwy., N. Park Rd., N. Wheeler St., W. And E. Baker St., E. U.S. Hwy. 92,

State Road 574, E. Alsobrook St., a section of Park Rd., Coronet Rd., Medulla Rd., Turkey Creek Rd. and James L. Redman Pkwy.

“Despite the essential role trucking plays in all of our lives, negative effects can be associated with it,” said Wade Reynolds, AICP, Hillsborough TPO Executive Planner. “The truck route plan aims to balance the needs of truck freight movement, which is vital for our businesses and economy, with the broader community’s health, safety, and quality of life. That’s why hearing from the community through this survey is so important.”

The survey results will also contribute to the freight component of the 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan currently being developed by the Hillsborough TPO.

People who use Hillsborough County roadways are encouraged to complete the brief, interactive survey which is available in both English and Spanish, by July 31 at metroquestsurvey.com/fz6u6g?c=media. Participants who leave their email address will be registered for a drawing for a $100 Walmart gift card.

Learn more about the truck route plan survey and update at planhillsborough.org/help-usdevelop-the-2050-freight-plan.

Agenda items included formation of an audit committee, a sidewalk project and an adjustment to the Plant City Commercial Historic District.

your thoughts on how to improve safety for all road users and reduce environmental impacts.

CITY COMMISSION REJECTS RFP BY EHHS, WILL CONSIDER LEASE AGREEMENT

The intent, according to the RFP, is to restore and rehabilitate the historic 1914 Plant City High School building to a safe, useable condition that keeps the historic and architectural integrity intact.

Bender, who’s been at the helm of the Society since 2003, said the EHHS is ready to take the bull by the horns and begin the repairs. “Doing nothing is no longer an option and our Band-Aid is just getting bigger and bigger,” she said. “The 1914 is a gem and deserves to be brought back.”

The three-story brick building, which holds signifiant historical and cultural value, has stood as a cornerstone of Plant City’s architectural heritage for more than a century. Erected in 1914 at a cost of $40,000, the building operated as Plant City High School until 1955 when it became Tomlin Junior High School. In 1975,

Hillsborough County School Board deeded the building to the City of Plant City.

The EHHS has occupied the building since 1977 but there isn’t a written lease on record detailing the conditions of occupancy. The agreement was a “gentleman’s agreement” and sealed with a handshake. The RFP proposed the City, through a fee-simple deed, transfer ownership of the building to EHHS.

After her presentation, Commissioner Sparkman was quick to commend EHHS for its efforts. “I’ve been on the commission 30 years and a year or year and a half ago I came up with the idea of giving the 1914 to the historical society,” he said. “I support your association and ownership of that building 110% and I know there’s a lot of people in this building with the same feeling.”

After further discussion by other commissioners, which seemed to lean towards drafting a lease agreement between the city and EHHS instead of a complete

transfer of ownership, Commissioner Sparkman made motion to quit claim deed the property to the EHHS with a reverter clause after all details have been worked out so the 1914 can be an asset to the community. Members in the audience responded to his motion with applause but the motion died on the floor with a lack f a second.

Commissioner Dodson then made a motion for the commission to authorize city officia, including City Manager Bill McDaniel and City Attorney Kenneth Buchman to draft a lease agreement with EHHS. The lease agreement would outline specific deails of the agreement including responsibilities of each party and outcomes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Mathis and passed with a vote of four to one, with Commissioner Sparkman dissenting.

As the meeting adjourned Commissioner Jones commented that he’d like to see a purchase agreement in the lease if

the EHHS meets the terms of the contract. “I think it’s important that deed eventually transfer over to them,” he said.

Commissioner Dodson mentioned a conversation he had with Commissioner Mike Owen, who was amenable to seeking additional funding for the 1914 building. “I want to make it clear we all have the same intentions and they’re all good: to do what’s right and to find a ay to restore the building,” he said.

Mayor Kilton also offered encouraging words to EHHS members. “Ms. Bender, we’re going to get together with you and the city counselor and we’ll get to the work as soon as we possibly can on those exterior items,” said Mayor Kilton. “We’re all trying to get to the same place here.”

The lease agreement, once drafted, would come back to the city commission for final appoval. City officials e also working to ensure the transfer of the $1.5 million in county funding.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Local Woman To Hike Camino De Santiago

face. The former marathon runner is training for a once-in-a-lifetime longdistance pilgrimage that will take 33 days and test the limits of her physical and mental endurance.

The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St. James, is a network of ancient pilgrim routes that converge at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in northwestern Spain. Salvato’s journey, which spans nearly 500 miles, will begin in St. Jean-Pied-du-Port near Biarritz in France.

At the end of the journey, pilgrims can stop to obtain a Compostela, a certifiate of accomplishment that commends pilgrims for traveling at least 62 miles from any starting point.

For Salvato, it’s not about the piece of paper. Her decision to embark on this arduous journey was deeply personal. Diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of fie, she spent years managing her condition while refusing to let it define her limitations.

“I want to show everybody that epilepsy is not a disease or a disability, it’s an inconvenience,” she said.

That inconvenience didn’t stop her from becoming a distance runner. In her younger years, she ran everything from local 5k races to marathons. Several years ago, Salvato started looking for another challenge. A friend at St. Clement Catholic Church told her about the Camino de Santiago and encouraged her to watch The Way, a movie about one man’s experience walking the trail after his son’s death. “I found out one of my friends, who was a widow, was walking it at that time and it turned her life around,” she said.

In 2018, Salvato quickly decided to

Michael I’m going in 2023 and he said okay,” she said. “He thinks I’m crazy but he tells everybody he didn’t marry a prom queen.”

Her orthopedic surgeon was less than thrilled. When she told him about the Camino, he told her she couldn’t do it. Nothing was going to stop her this time.

“I’m the original ‘hold my beer’ girl, tell me I can’t do something and I’m going to do it.”

She’s been training for the trip for months, walking miles a day. She can sometimes be spotted on the festival grounds walking the stadium stairs to simulate some of the mountainous terrain she’ll be hiking over.

While the long journey may sound intimidating (she’ll walk about 15 miles each day), the path is dotted with small villages where Salvato can rest at pilgrim hostels, wash her clothes, eat a meal and resupply. In her backpack, along with a change of clothes, an extra pair of shoes and snacks, will be as 45day supply of phenobarbital that she takes to control her seizures.

The medicine keeps her grand mal and petit mal seizures at bay. Her last seizure was February 22, 1992. “I get a birthday cake every year with ‘Go Me’ written on it to celebrate being seizurefree,” she said.

Salvato will fly out f Tampa International Airport on August 26, arrive in Madrid the following day and then transfer to St. Jean. She’ll begin her pilgrimage August 29.

“I’m dying and itching to go, I’ve been counting down the days,” she said.

Plant City residents can follow her journey on Facebook at Plant City Peregrina.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

FORD SUPER DUTY IS A SOLID, PRACTICAL BEAST!

SUPER DUTY (REGULAR CAB)

Tires: 245/75R17

Wheelbase: 141.4 inches

Length: 231.8 inches

Height: 78.9 inches

Width: 80 inches

Suspension: independent twin I-beam with coil springs front, solid axle rear

Steering: electric assist hydraulic Base price: $43,970

Web site: ford.com/trucks/superduty/

Long before the Super Duty became a household name, it was known as Big Jobs, as in fie engines, dump trucks, flatbed. Then in 1958, the Super Duty name was introduced till the ever-growing popularity of the heavy-duty trucks resulted in a separate platform. Forward to 1999 and voila, we have the Super Duty, which has been totally redesigned this year. Recently, Ford invited automotive journalists to its Michigan Proving Grounds to demonstrate the high-tech technology incorporated into these pickups, especially for towing

and hauling. Over 90 percent of heavyduty pickup owners purchase them toward this purpose.

Two new models, a gasoline and diesel, have been added to the lineup. The 6.8-liter V-8 gas engine pumps out 405 horsepower and 445 pounds-feet of torque; and the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V-8 puts out 500 hp and 1200 pounds-feet of torque. Otherwise, the lineup continues with the 7.3-liter V-8 gas (430 hp, 485 pounds-feet of torque) and the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V-8 (475 hp, 1050 pounds-feet of torque). All-wheel and rear-wheel-drive versions are avail-

able in the 8-speed auto gearbox touting 8,000-pound payload and 40,000-pound tow capacity.

It is remarkable that the fourth-gen Super Duty claims more than 50 percent of market share in utility, emergency response vehicles, mining, construction and forestry. Undoubtedly, Ford will reassert its dominance even further as potential owners become aware of new features in 2023. Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch can assess cargo payload in real time so the trailer tongue weight distribution is shown on the center touchscreen or in the tail lamps. Or imagine automatically reversing the truck to line up the conventional hitch ball to the trailer receiver. Well, the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist does the job for you. Fire up your air compressor or saw with the Pro Power Onboard boasting 2.0-kilowatts of output. Blind Spot Information System for fifth wheel and ooseneck will cast the image of a vehicle next to a trailer on the side view mirrors. Projecting info in its lower half of the windshield, the Super Duty head-up display has been inspired by figher jet planes, says Ford. Also invaluable is the Pro Trailer Navigation with

navigated routes of given trailer lengths so evading low bridges and tight turns is effortless.

“C-clamp” LED headlights portray a robust Super Duty look up front while the cabin is equipped with an 8-inch or 12-inch infotainment screen, 12-inch digital instrument cluster, dual auto a/c, tilt/telescopic steering column, center console that can hold a tablet upright, maximum recline seat, 640-watt, eight-speaker sound system and hands-free Alexa for three years. Available in six trims and modes, the 2023 Super Duty is a ‘Super’ utilitarian workhorse! It packs tons of power while boasting plentiful creature/work comforts and exceptional towing/hauling figues. Undoubtedly, the Ford pickup will continue to reign as a top-seller for many more years to come.

Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabay.com and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.

Member FDIC

SPORTS

STRAWBERRY CREST’S ARJUN NIMMALA DRAFTED BY TORONTO

BLUE JAYS IN FIRST ROUND OF 2023 MLB DRAFT

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Strawberry Crest shortstop Arjun Nimmala was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays with the 20th overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft on Sunday.

“I can’t put into words how excited I am,” Nimmala said after his selection. “Having all of my supporters around me is a big deal for me and I’m just excited to get a pro career going… I know that the Blue Jays are a prestigious organization with a lot of accolades. I can’t wait to play with them, they’re a great organization.”

At just 17 years old, Nimmala is one of the youngest players in this year’s draft and became the first player of full Indian descent to be selected in the first round of the MLB Draft. As a senior with the Chargers this past spring, he hit .479 with six home runs, seven doubles, three triples and 29 runs batted in with nine stolen bases across 25 games. Praised by scouts for his raw power, projectability and high

ceiling as he measures in at 6-foot-1, 170 pounds, the Blue Jays director of scouting Shane Farrell spoke about what the organization saw in Nimmala.

“The power, the arm strength, the actions defensively, playing at a premium position, that all makes him a really exciting player and someone that I’m really excited to get into the farm system,” Farrell said on Monday.

“We built a strong relationship with Arjun and we’re excited to get him to Dunedin, it’s a short drive for him so we’re excited to get him on campus. For Arjun it’s really combining the age, the power and the physical projection that we’re seeing. We think he’s going to fill out and be a strong and mature individual, that his power is going to continue to grow and continue to translate to game production as well.”

If – or more appropriately, when –Nimmala officially signs his new contract with Toronto, his next step will be to report to the Blue Jays’ Player Development Complex in Dunedin, less than 40 miles west of where he played his high school ball.

FEATURED FUTURE: COLE HIGHSMITH

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.

After playing four years of varsity football with Plant City High School, Cole Highsmith has committed to continue his academic and athletic journey at Southeastern University.

“It’s surreal,” Highsmith said. “Signing was a moment that every kid dreams about. Everyone always wants to go to the NFL and all of that, but that was never my goal. My goal was always to go somewhere and play college ball but not just be on the team and ride on the bus and go to the games, my goals and dreams were to get on the field and be able to play and I’m really confident that I’ll get that opportunity at Southeastern. It’s a very surreal feeling to see your dreams come true through hard work.”

As a freshman with the Raiders, Highsmith made the varsity team but found work largely on special teams, totaling three tackles while finding action in four games. And it wouldn’t come at the beginning of the year, but by his second season Highsmith would find himself in the Raiders’ starting lineup taking reps at both strong safety and outside linebacker under new defensive coordinator Kyle Jones, currently the linebackers coach at Southeastern.

Coach Jones is a very, very hard coach just because his standards are so high,” Highsmith said. “So when he came in my sophomore year I was forced to mature very quickly. He told me from day one that he saw me playing a big time role on the team, a big time role on the team and believed in me and honestly developed me into what I am today, so I’m looking forward to it. I guess I wouldn’t say that he’s a hard coach to play for, but it’s very challenging because his expectations and standards are so high but it’s all worth it in the end. It was different, as far as I know we’d never had a coach like that and it changed everything. It changed the way we walked, it changed the way we talked, how we carried ourselves, how we played together, it honestly brought us all together as a whole – as a defense, as a whole team. Everything changes because the standard was raised. It was a struggle for everyone at first, to adjust and realize that we had to raise our own standards because if not, we’d get chewed out. The standards were so high but it was a good thing because on Friday nights when we’d play it was more fun than anything I’ve ever experienced.”

In his sophomore year Highsmith recorded 46 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss and five sacks – the second-highest mark on the

Raiders defense. As a junior, Highsmith was voted captain and became a force on Plant City’s defense. Now a full-time starter in the heart of the Raiders’ front seven, Highsmith finished second on the team with 92 total tackles, a whopping 20 tackles for loss, seven sacks and one interception while forcing a team-high six fumbles across nine games played on the year. And by the end of his junior season, college programs began taking notice.

A preseason injury forced Highsmith to miss the first three games of his senior season, but once back on the field the production continued to come together at a high level. Over seven games in his final season, Highsmith totaled 66 tackles with a teamhigh 9.4 tackles per game while racking up 12 tackles for loss, two sacks, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and punched in a rushing touchdown from the goal line in a 20-8 win over Jefferson to end the year with the first offensive touchdown of his career.

After conversations with a list of schools that included the University of South Florida and Arkansas State, among others, Highsmith ultimately committed to continue his athletic and academic career at Southeastern University. Highsmith said that the coaching staff pointed to his effort on the

field, his aggressiveness and his hustle from snap to whistle when evaluating his tape. Southeastern’s football program also offers some comfortability, not only reconnecting with his former defensive coordinator in Jones but former Plant City teammates in Ian Jolly and Jose Rodriguez as well.

“Southeastern knew who I was, they cared about me and I could always tell that,” Highsmith said. “They really pursued me more than anything and I just got a really good feeling about it from the whole coaching staff, not just one particular coach, but the whole coaching staff made me feel that I was wanted and that I could be a big asset to the team. That played a big role in why I chose to go there.”

Highsmith will join a Southeastern squad that finished last season at 6-4, one season removed from an 8-3 campaign in 2021 where the Fire earned their fifth conference championship – all coming since 2015.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

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

Toronto selected Nimmala with the 20th overall pick in the first ound of this year’s draft.

PLANT CITY DUO WINS FLORIDA BASS NATION STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

On the heels of a state championship win, Plant City Bassmasters now prepare for the Bass Nation National Championship in South Carolina later this month.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Last month the Plant City duo of Tyson Griffin and Wyatt Drawdy took on the Florida Bass Nation Junior/ High School State Championship where they were able to come away victorious, their first tournament win at the high school level.

“It took a lot of preparation to win states,” Drawdy said. “We were doing pretty well throughout the season but weren’t necessarily too confident heading into states, we were just kind of there to have fun until we realized how well we were doing.”

Held at Lake Okeechobee on June 11 and 12, Griffin and Drawdy finished their first day of competition in fifth place with a total of 18.29 pounds caught. On Sunday, the team hauled in the biggest bag of the tournament at 24.55 pounds and a tournament-best bass of 8.33 pounds, elevating them to a state championship victory over the field of 98 teams.

Throughout the 16-tournament season that runs from September to April, Griffin and Drawdy — along with their captain Jesse Drawdy — had already accumulated enough points with several top-5 and top-10 finishes to qualify for both the State the National Championship, to be held on Lake Hartwell in Anderson, S.C. on July 27-29. The season is divided into eight weekends and four divisions — featuring a South Trail, North Trail, Spring Trail and Fall Trail.

“It was a good year,” Griffin said. “Throughout the year we had quite a few top 10 finishes and this was prob-

ably our best year compared to any other years we’ve fished together thus far. States was great. After having 18 pounds after the first day we knew that we were doing pretty well, so at that point we were just hoping to have an even better day on Sunday.”

With Wyatt Drawdy entering his junior season at Plant City and Griffin entering his junior year at Strawberry Crest, the duo is not affiliated with their high schools but instead fish under the Plant City Bassmasters regional community club. Growing up, Griffin and Wyatt Drawdy competed in local tournaments before entering the Bassmasters Junior Series in seventh grade, following Wyatt’s older brother Colten Drawdy into the High School Series as he competed for three years at Plant City before advancing to the Collegiate Series as part of the fishing team at Bethel University in McKenzie, Tenn. This year’s State Championship marked the first tournament victory since their eighth grade year while part of the Junior Series.

“Colten’s helped us out some, he’s taught me a lot over the years but when he was fishing in high school there was a little bit of competition with him there too,” Wyatt Drawdy said. “That was always fun having him there.”

With just two weeks until the National Championship, the team has already begun doing their research on Lake Hartwell by watching YouTube videos, researching previous tournaments that have taken place there, speaking with friends that have fished the lake and will be allowed to pre-fish the lake for three days prior to the tournament’s start.

“It’s been an honor to be the captain for these two boys,” Jesse Drawdy said. “This is actually their last year fishing together because Tyson’s moving out of state so it’s been a pretty fun time, ending state with a bang and we’d like to go up and do real well in Nationals to represent Florida High School Bassnation well.”

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

JUNE 2023 Real Estate Transactions

Local JUNE 2023 sales and trend information courtesy of The Crawford Group.

WHAT’S THE “REAL STATE OF REAL ESTATE?” Media continues to be confliced and confused on what narrative to report. National data suggests declining units sold and price reductions, Regional and Local data tell a different story. It’s the same as looking at a glass of water filled o the middle, some will say its half full while to others its half empty, both are correct, but their perceptions are totally opposing in thought. Data should be viewed in the relevance of the locale. The new term that is going around in todays media FOMO, “fear of missing out” gets many up in arms.

A real estate purchase is typically the largest individual purchase a person/ family makes in their life, and still one of the surest ways to build equity/net worth over time. Over the past 70 plus years real estate values have increased year over year, apart from the 2006-2008 financial mortgage crisis time period when it made a correction. The individual looking at the glass half empty believes the market must crash to reset which is not correct. One of the primary reasons a residential housing crash is not coming has to do with American’s home equity. In a recent survey, it was reported that 39 percent own their home free and clear, 29 percent have more than 50 percent equity and the balance are net positive equity.

Oh, what about mortgage rates in the seven percent range. The Federal Reserve has been increasing the short-term rates over the past year, this is a function to gain control of the inflation ate which peaked last year around 9.1 percent. Historically the Fed starts raising rates too late and continues raising the rates too long. We will probably still see a couple more rate hikes before they must start cutting them. June’s inflation number will be eported before this comes to print, and the analysts are saying we should see June’s number around 3.1 percent getting closer to the 2 percent goal rate. Before the end of the year the Fed will start cutting these short-term rates and mortgage rates will follow to settle in the fie percent range, some are saying we will see high four percent rates in 2024. So, should we wait

for the rates to decline before buying? No, here is where FOMO heightens, the fear of missing out comes to play. We already have an inventory shortage, less than 1.83 month’s supply and when these rates start to come down, the buyers demand is going to increase placing increased pressure on pricing. David Stevens, former President/ CEO of Mortgage Bankers Association said, “This nation is standing on the front doorstep of the largest wave of homebuying demand in US History.” If you are in the need of new housing, as a buyer time is certainly not on your side.

It’s all supply/demand economics, housing prices will continue to rise giving the sellers an upper hand in the process.

As we look at the Plant City housing data for June 2023, our market area sold 92 homes for the month continuing to surpass the year-to-date average of 82.5 units per month. That number comprised of 26 new construction homes which should continue due to the new housing developments. Our housing inventory is holding around 1.83 months’ supply, still considerably less than the three to four months average supply needed for a normal market period. The inventory outlook will continue to be stressed and tighten up. Our ADOM, average days on market, last month was 37.1 about double the time it took last year to go under contract.

We now have had four months of increases in the average sold price and average price per square foot of homes sold in Plant City. In June our average sold price was $396,146 a 1.3 percent increase over May, a 7.5 percent increase year-todate and 7.2 percent over the previous June 2022. When we look at average price per square foot, June 2023 was $206.38 per square foot, a slight decline from May but 7.8 percent increase year-to-date. This trend will continue and will increase substantially when the mortgage rates stabilize.

30-year average mortgage rates came in for the month of June at 6.71 percent but its still trending up for the time, the Fed paused the rate increase in June, but the July meeting is scheduled this 7/25-26 in which they may make another increase

to stabilize the inflation omponent of the process. So, what about the coming months, people will be buying and selling homes, prices have turned the corner and are rising again.

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. Get the real scoop on our market. 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 June 2023 for the Plant City Market Area.

The home at 2903 Airport Rd sold June 19 for $90,000. Built in 1928, it has 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and 768 square feet of living area.

The home at 1306 Union Pacific r sold June 5 for $205,000. Built in 2002 it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 2176 square feet of living area.

The home at 1505 E Calhoun St sold June 13 for $215,000. Built in 1950, it has 2 bedrooms, 2 bath and 984 square feet of living area.

The home at 1704 E Warren St sold June 20 for $265,000. Built in 1965, it has 3 bedrooms, 1 bath and 960 square feet of living area.

The home at 3505 White Dandelion Ct sold June 23 for $285,990. Built in 2023, it has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and 1673 square feet of living area.

The home at 4407 Country Hills Blvd sold June 15 for $319,999. Built in 2005, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1316 square feet of living area.

The home at 4203 Barret Ave sold June 8 for $335,000. Built in 1989, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1514 square feet of living area.

The home at 806 Wiltonway sold June 1 for $360,000. Built in 2017, it has 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and 2108 square feet of living area.

The home 2702 Savannah Dr sold June 22 for $385,000. Built in 1991, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1846 square feet of living area.

The home at 1101 Sandalwood Dr sold June 14 for $415,000. Built in 2017, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1911 square feet of living area.

The home at 2701 Medulla Rd sold June 13 for $440,000. Built in 1958, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 2040 square feet of living area.

The home at 3231 Alcott Ave sold June 21 for $495,000. Built in 1995, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 2045 square feet of living area.

The home at 4062 El Shaddiai Sq sold June 27 for $715,000. Built in 1975, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 bath and 2997 square feet of living area.

The home at 1403 S Wiggins Rd sold June 8 for $875,000. Built in 1971, it has 6 bedrooms, 5 bath and 5679 square feet of living area.

The home at 5938 Hovan Ave sold June 16 for $1,500,000. Built in 1991, it has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and 1996 square feet of living area.

We asked Plant City: What are three things you can’t live without?

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

“Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” - Kenneth Wolfe

“My Savior Jesus, he is my ROCK! With him all things are possible.” - Melody Yancey

“God, family, Hungry Howie’s Pizza. Because everything good comes from God. My family makes my world turn and Hungry Howie’s makes the most yummy pizza!” - Diane Walker Brannon

“The Lord.” - Ed Verner

“Community, air conditioning, Baja Blast.” - Edwin Alexander Mejia

“Gators, chicken nuggets, and Beef o’ Brady’s.” - Enrique Rangel

“God, Jesus and air.” - Chassie Alford

“God. Family. Authentic tacos.” - James Villa

“Murals, Olive Garden Breadsticks and God, of course.” - Ashley Saunders

“Jesus Christ! My husband and children.” - Hilda Gonzalez

“God, kids and guns.” - Jess Torres

“Lord, food, water.” - Wesley Ezekiel

“God, family and pets.” - Evelyn Clay

“Family, including my dog, laughter, coffee.” - Meg Scott

“Oxygen, food, water.” - Matt Stone

“God, grandkids and family.” - Peggy Gipson Williams

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

PlantCityObserver.com

Steven Lynn Carlisle

Steven Lynn Carlisle, 51, of Wimauma, born on Nov. 2, 1971, in Tampa, entered into eternal rest on July 2, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Lonell Stafford

Lonell Stafford, 87, of Plant City, Fla., passed away on July 8, 2023.

Lonell was born on Nov. 2, 1935.

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

James

‘Don’ Smith

James “Don” Smith, 74, of Lithia, born on May 27, 1949, in Miami, entered into eternal rest on July 2, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Gladys ‘Pookie’ Lee Newsome

Gladys “Pookie” Lee Newsome, 84, of Thonotosassa, born on Jan. 8, 1939, in Plant City, entered into eternal rest on July 9, 2023.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

Andrew D Beaty, 65, of Dover, Fla., passed away on July 8, 2023. Andrew was born on June 11, 1958. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www. WellsMemorial.com for the Beaty family.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

BEST BET

FRIDAY, JULY 14

CHRISTMAS IN JULY TOY DRIVE – FRIDAY NIGHT FLICKS

5 to 9 p.m. at Evers St. / J. Arden Mays Blvd. Make your way to Downtown Plant City for Plant City Main Street’s Friday Night Flicks event, an opportunity to shop and dine in Historic Downtown Plant City and enjoy a feature film under the stars. Admission is free and July’s event will feature a showing of Harry Potter. Bring chairs, blankets and toys to donate as Friday Night Flicks will serve as a host to one of the No More Umbrellas Foundation’s Christmas In July Toy Drive locations, with the chance to receive a free Sno Cone with your donation.

FRIDAY, JULY 14

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.

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

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 ($15) and orders can be placed through any local Elks mem-

ber or by calling George at 813-240-2727. Orders must be placed by Friday at noon.

MONDAY, JULY 17

CHRISTMAS IN JULY

TOY DRIVE – KEEL FARMS

11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at 5202 Thonotosassa Rd. Take the opportunity to help the No More Umbrellas Foundation on Give Back Monday. When you have dinner at Keel Farms on Monday, July 17, a portion of the proceeds will go directly to benefit the No More Umbrellas Foundation as part of their Christmas In July initiative.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19

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 22

BACK TO SCHOOL BASH

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 2001 N Park Rd. Hope Lutheran Church joyfully invites the Plant City community to join them for a free Back To School Bash. All participants will received a complimentary backpack filled with chool supplies for the new year. Sponsored by Hope’s Missions and Outreach Ministry team, the event will feature ice cream, cookies, games and crafts, designed to help parents in these financially difficultys to help equip their children for the upcoming school

JULY 1–28

Meet Aubrey

year while providing a time of fun in a safe environment. Also, Plant City Police and Fire Rescue and the Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Office will be joining Hope for the event. For additional information, contact the church office at 813-752-4622.

TUESDAY, JULY 25

LIFE RECOVERY - ADDITION RECOVERY GROUP

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.

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 2103 Mud Lake Rd. The Plant City Church of God hosts Life Recovery on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month, a free, Christ centered, 12-step group addiction recovery program for all those in need. Family is welcome to join alongside attendees and for more information, call or text Debbie at 813-763-1562 or Laverne at 813-763-1530.

23-2808249-0623

You can help: StJosephsChristmas.org

relationships or mental illness. Meetings take place on the fist Wednesday of each month at GracePoint Church. For more information, visit www.peaksupportgroup. com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5

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.

FRIDAY, JULY 28

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

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

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12

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.

I LOVE PLANT CITY

tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com

FORECAST

93

75

rain: 36%

JULY 14

SUNRISE/SUNSET

95

76

of rain: 61%

93

77

MOON PHASES

58%

93

77

JULY 15

16

76

43%

(C) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

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

Send your photo submissions to staff writer Taylor Jenkins at

or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

Richard Kessler caught a photo of this bird cooling off or a few minutes at a bird bath in his backyard.

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture