7.18.19 PLCO

Plant City Observer YO UR HOMETO WN. YO UR NEWSPAP ER .

YOUR HOMETOWN. YOUR NEWSPAPER FREE

VOLUME 6, NO. 54

•

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

COMMISSIONERS SET BALL IN MOTION FOR REPAIRS BREANNE WILLIAMS

Some major budget adjustments were approved last week as commissioners prepared for the go-ahead on several influential projects around town.

STAFF WRITER

Though last week’s commission meeting was brief, there were several major funding adjustments on the agenda.

Each year, the city uses funding provided in CIP RC008 to repair or replace items in playgrounds throughout the city. This year, the city is focusing on purchasing new swing sets and sand-filled playground areas.

City Manager Bill McDaniel said many of the swing sets at parks around the city are drastically worn down and in desperate need of replacement. The sand, which is used as a safety fall zone in many of the local playgrounds, is also no longer the preferred safety standard thanks to years of heavy use. The project approved last week will replace the sand and swings in many of the playgrounds and bring the parks back up to modern standards. CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

MASSIVE DEVELOPMENT UNDERWAY NEAR PARK ROAD

VISIT LAKESIDELOGISTICS.INFO

Representatives from the Plant City EDC, Foundry PLANT CITY, FLCommericial, Ascentris, Sunrise Homes and HGR Construction gathered to discuss the upcoming development at Lakeside Logistics Park.

IN THE HEART OF FLORIDA’S FASTEST GROWING INDUSTRIAL CORRIDOR

SEE PAGE 5

2

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

NEWS BRIEFS

initiatives within the city and use that knowledge to better engage our investors in a strategic and personalized manner,� Austin said.

Local Elk attends national convention A member of Plant City Elks Lodge No. 1727 recently traveled to St. Louis, Missouri, for the National Convention of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

Thomas Ludwick, who also serves as President of the Florida State Elks Association, attended the convention with other delegates from the continental United States as well as those from Guam, Puerto Rico, the Philippines and the Panama Canal. Ludwick voted on decisions affecting the Elks’ policies and attended seminars and workshops focused on community service.

Johnson Pointe platting hearing

the meeting. For Spanish-language services, call Mara Latorre at 813-659-4258.

The Plant City Planning Board announced a public hearing for a request to plat the Johnson Pointe property at 8:30 a.m. July 24 at the City Hall auditorium, 302 W. Reynolds St. The property in question, a 15.5-acre parcel, is located along Johnson Road, just south of Charlie Griffin Road and right next to the Walden Pointe subdivision. Plans for a final plat will be discussed at the hearing.

To ask questions of the applicant, Johnson Road Project, LLC, call 813625-2899 or call the City of Plant City Planning and Zoning Department at 813659-4258. Call the Planning and Zoning Department ahead of time to confirm this item on the agenda if you will attend

RCMA recruiting teachers, support staff

PC native joins local EDC

Redlands Christian Migrant Association, one of Florida’s largest childcare and education providers, is looking for help.

The RCMA is currently recruiting teachers and support staff members for 66 child development centers, three charter schools and after-school care programs in 21 counties.

Open positions include charter school elementary Spanish teachers, charter school first grade teachers, early childhood development teachers, information and data specialists, cooks and bus drivers.

The Plant City Economic Development Corporation announced Taylor Clark has been hired as its new Investor Relations Director.

Clark, a Plant City native and University of South Florida alumnus, has more than 15 years of experience in sales and financial planning and most recently worked for Northwestern Mutual as a financial planner. Jake Austin, president of the EDC, said Clark’s role is to “completely overhaul how the EDC engages with our investors and partners.� “Taylor will keep abreast of all active projects and economic development

-

9 /2 0 ! "2

For more information on job openings and positional requirements, visit rcma. net/about-rcma/employment-at-rcma/.

-

9 /2 0 ! "2

Frontline Community Services fundraiser coming Frontline Community Services wants to put the “fun� in “fundraiser� on Aug. 10.

The group will host its “Lazy, Crazy Days of Summer� event at the Sparkman House Luxury Bed & Breakfast, 707 N. Collins St., from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. that Saturday. Attendees can cool off with fresh watermelon and homemade ice cream, play lawn games, jam to live music and pig out on BBQ dinners of chicken or pulled pork. Take-out dinner options are available.

Tickets cost $25 per person, but parties of four can get tickets for an $80 flat fee. Discounted delivery service options for orders of 20 items and up are available upon request. Call 813-323-4013 for more information.

-

9 /2 0 ! "2

ne‘[@Ă“n ÓªÝne !nĂź 1n[Ž¼ªšª…Þ |ÂŞĂ“ ÂĽnn ÓåŽÓ‘å‘× 1Ă“n@ĂĄÂ nÂĽĂĄ /n¼‘ªÓ× ÂŽ@Ăťn @ ĂŹÂĽÂ‘ĂˆĂŹn ªªÓåϼ‘åÞ ½eÏӑ¼… ĂĄÂŽn ÂĽnýå ÛÊ ŽªÏÓמ ĂĄÂŞ }ÂĽe ÂŞĂŹĂĄ ‘| ne‘[@Ă“n @ÓªÝne ĂĄĂ“n@ĂĄÂ nÂĽĂĄ [@ÂĽ nÂĽe ÞªÏÓ ™¼nn @ÓåŽÓ‘å‘× Âť@‘¼ @ÂĽe ÂŽnš Ă“nÂ?[@åÏÓn ÞªÏÓ ÞªÏåŽ Plant City, Â? | ÞªÏ Ă—ĂŹ||nĂ“ ߑåŽ Âť@‘¼|Ϛ ™¼nn @ÓåŽÓ‘å‘×b ĂĄÂŽn ÂĽnýå ÛÊ ÂŽÂŞĂŹĂ“Ă—  @Ăž Qn nýåÓn nšÞ ‘ ªÓå@ÂĽĂĄ ĂĄÂŞ ÞªÏà nĂ“n ‘× ߎÞa | ÞªÏ @Ă“n š‘™n  ª×å Ă—n¼‘ªÓ×à à à ÞªÏ ߪәne ÂŽ@Ă“e ÞªÏÓ ߎªšn š‘|nĂ ;ÂŞĂŹ Ă—@[ӑ}[neĂ ;ÂŞĂŹ e‘e ߑ厪Ïåà ;ÂŞĂŹ Âť@‘e ÞªÏÓ eĂŹnĂ—Ă ;ÂŞĂŹ  @Ăž ÂŽ@Ăťn nĂťnÂĽ |ÂŞĂŹÂ…ÂŽĂĄ |ÂŞĂ“ ÞªÏÓ [ªÏ¼åÓÞà !ÂŞĂź ‘åĂ?Ă— 呠n ĂĄÂŞ |ÂŞ[ĂŹĂ— ÂŞÂĽ Â…nå呼… @ š‘ååšn Q@[™à åĂ?Ă— 呠n |ÂŞĂ“ ;#3Ă ĂĄĂ?Ă— 呠n ĂĄÂŞ ĂĄ@™n @ Ă—ĂĄnÂť Q@[™ @ÂĽe nÂĽÂ˜ÂŞĂž ĂĄÂŽn š‘|n ÞªÏĂ?Ăťn ߪәne Ă—ÂŞ ÂŽ@Ă“e ĂĄÂŞ Qϑše @ÂĽe Â…nĂĄ Q@[™ ĂĄÂŞ eª‘¼… @šš ĂĄÂŽn 厑¼…× ÞªÏ enĂ—nĂ“ĂťnĂ ĂŹĂĄ Ă“nå‘Ón nÂĽĂĄ [@ n ߑåŽ ÂŞÂĽn ,.# ÞªÏ  @Ăž ÂŽ@Ăťn ÂĽÂŞĂĄ @¼å‘[‘@ĂĄneĂ ÂŞĂ“  @ÂĽĂžb ĂĄÂŽn Âť@‘¼ @ÂĽe @Â…ÂŞÂĽĂž ÂŞ| ™¼nn @ÓåŽÓ‘å‘× ÂŽ@Ă— enĂ—ĂĄĂ“ÂŞĂžne ĂĄÂŽn‘Ó Ă—ÂŞÂ?[@ššne Ă?…ªšenÂĽ Ăžn@Ă“Ă—ĂŽĂ nĂĄ  n ĂĄnšš ÞªÏ åߪ 厑¼…× ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ @Ă“n @QĂŹÂĽe@¼åšÞ [šn@Ă“Ă Ă Ă ĂĄĂ?Ă— !ÂŞĂĄ @‘Ó ÂĽe ĂĄĂ?Ă— !ÂŞĂĄ ;ÂŞĂŹĂ“ @Ϛå ÂĽe ™¼ªß ‘åĂ?Ă— ÂĽÂŞĂĄ ĂĄÂŽn Ăź@Ăž ÞªÏ ‘ @…‘¼ne š‘|n ߪϚe QnĂ 9nšš ĂĄÂŽ@¼™ Â…ÂŞÂŞeÂĽnĂ—Ă—Ă Ă Ă

Ïn åª @eÝ@¼[n× ‘¼  ne‘[@š ån[Ž¼ªšª…Þ @¼e åÓn@å n¼å×b ×n¼‘ªÓ× Ó‘…Žå ŽnÓn ‘¼ Plant City @Ón ¼ªß ÓneÏ[‘¼… @‘¼b ÓnåÏÓ¼‘¼… åª åŽn @[å‘Ý‘å‘n× åŽnÞ šªÝn à à à @¼e …nå呼… åª š‘Ýn åŽn . Ónå‘Ón n¼å eÓn@ à ªÓ  @¼Þb ™¼nn @ÓåŽÓ‘å‘× @‘¼ Ž@× @šÓn@eÞ Qn[ª n @ 厑¼… ª| åŽn @×åz #¼n ×Ï[Ž  ne‘[@š @eÝ@¼[n n¼å |ªÓ [ŽÓª¼‘[ ™¼nn @‘¼ ‘× [@ššne ݑ×[ª×ϝšn n¼å@呪¼à 1Ž‘× ný[‘呼… ¼nß ªå‘ª¼ Ž@× @šÓn@eÞ Žnšne 厪Ï×@¼e× ‘¼ Plant City |ªÓ åŽÓnn ÝnÓÞ ‘ ªÓå@¼å Ón@ת¼×a

.n@ת¼ Šã 8‘×[ª×ϝšn n¼å@呪¼ 1Ón@å n¼å ‘×

ªÝnÓne QÞ ne‘[@Ón @¼e @¼Þ #åŽnÓ ¼×ÏÓ@¼[n×

ÂŞÂĽĂ?ĂĄ šnĂĄ ™¼nn Âť@‘¼ Ă“ÂŞQ Â˜ÂŞĂž |Óª ÞªÏÓ š‘|nz 8‘×[ª×ϝšn nÂĽĂĄ@呪¼ ĂĄÂŽnĂ“@Þ ‘× @ÓªÝne QĂž ne‘[@Ă“nb @ÂĽe [@ÂĽ ÂŽnš ÞªÏ Â…nĂĄ Q@[™ ĂĄÂŞ ĂĄÂŽn @[å‘Ý‘å‘nĂ— ÞªÏ nÂĽÂ˜ÂŞĂžĂ

e‘Ón[åšÞ ‘¼åª ĂĄÂŽn ™¼nn Â˜ÂŞÂ‘ÂĽĂĄĂ 1ÂŽnĂ—n šÏQӑ[@呼… @ÂĽe [Ï׎‘ª¼‘¼… Ă—ĂŹQĂ—ĂĄ@ÂĽ[nĂ— @Ă“n ÂĽ@ĂĄĂŹĂ“@ššÞ ÂŞ[[ÏÓӑ¼…b QĂŹĂĄ [šn@Ă“ne QĂž ĂĄÂŽn ĂĄÂŞ  @™n Ă—ĂŹĂ“n ÞªÏ Â…nĂĄ ĂĄÂŽn Ž‘…ŽnĂ—ĂĄ ĂˆĂŹ@š‘åÞ ĂĄĂ“n@ĂĄÂ nÂĽĂĄĂ .n[nÂĽĂĄ Ă“nĂ—n@Ă“[ÂŽ ׎ªß× ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ ݑ×[ª×ϝšn nÂĽĂĄ@呪¼ [@ÂĽ @š×ª @×ב×å ‘¼ ÂŽnš‘¼… ĂĄÂŽn [@Ó呚@Â…n ‘¼ ÞªÏÓ ™¼nnĂ— Ă“nÂ…nÂĽnĂ“@ĂĄn @ÂĽe Ă“nÂť@‘Óz 1Ž‘× ‘× !#1 @ÂĽ ÂŞĂťnĂ“ ĂĄÂŽn [ÂŞĂŹÂĽĂĄnĂ“ ݑå@ ‘¼ ÂŞĂ“ ×ϝšn nÂĽĂĄb QĂŹĂĄ @ÂĽ @eĂť@ÂĽ[ne  ne‘[@š Óª[neĂŹĂ“nĂ ĂĄ ‘× ÂĽÂŞĂĄ ĂŹÂĽ[ÂŞÂ Â ÂŞÂĽ ĂĄÂŞ Ă“nš‘nĂťn Âť@‘¼ @ÂĽe ×å‘||ÂĽnĂ—Ă— ‘¼ ĂĄÂŽn ™¼nnĂ— ‘¼ Â˜ĂŹĂ—ĂĄ @ |nĂź Ăźnn™×b @ÂĽe ĂĄÂŽn Ă“n×Ϛå× ÂŞ|ĂĄnÂĽ š@Ă—ĂĄ |ÂŞĂ“ ĂœÂ?²Ê  ª¼åŽ×b ÂŞĂ“ nĂťnÂĽ šª¼…nĂ“Ă #ÂĽn Ă—ĂĄĂŹeĂž |ÂŞĂŹÂĽe ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ ĂŠ Ăžn@Ă“Ă— @|ĂĄnĂ“ ÂŽ@ݑ¼… ĂĄÂŽnĂ—n Â‘ÂĽÂ˜n[呪¼× sĂŠĂ€ ÂŞ| Âť@å‘nÂĽĂĄĂ— ĂźnĂ“n @Qšn ĂĄÂŞ @ݪ‘e ĂĄÂŞĂĄ@š ™¼nn Ă“nš@[n nÂĽĂĄ Ă—ĂŹĂ“Â…nĂ“Ăžz

.n@ת¼ Š²a å 9ªÓ™×

.n@Ă—ÂŞÂĽ ŠÊ ,‘¼ª‘¼å [[ĂŹĂ“@[Ăž ÂŞ| ĂĄÂŽn ÂĽÂ˜n[呪¼×

8‘×[ª×ϝšn n¼å@ 呪¼ ‘× @¼ @eÝ@¼[ne  ne‘[@š åÓn@å n¼å ߎnÓn @ Ž‘…ŽšÞ י‘ššne eª[åªÓ Ïå× @ םn[‘@š

�@ÓªÝne šÏQӑ[@呼…  ne‘[‘¼n

åŽª× n@šåŽ Ӫϝ Ž@× nýnӑn¼[ne  ne‘[@š ån@ s with locations in Lakeland and Brandon Ón@eÞ åª Žnšà ¼ @ee‘呪¼ åª Žnš‘¼…

ÂŽĂŹÂĽeĂ“neĂ— ÂŞ| Âť@å‘nÂĽĂĄĂ— }ÂĽe Ă“nš‘n| |Ă“ÂŞÂ [ŽÓª¼‘[ ™¼nn Âť@‘¼b ĂĄÂŽnĂž ÂŽ@Ăťn @š×ª ÂťnĂ“|n[ĂĄne @  nĂĄÂŽÂŞe ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ @ššªß× ĂĄÂŽn åª ĂĄ@Ă“Â…nĂĄ Â‘ÂĽÂ˜n[呪¼× ߑåŽ Ón[‘בª¼ @[[ĂŹĂ“@[Ăž ĂĄÂŞ ‘¼×ÏÓn ªå‘ @š Ă“n×Ϛå×à #ĂŹĂ“ ÓªÝ‘enĂ“Ă— [ÂŞÂ Q‘¼n ĂĄÂŽn šÏQӑ[@呼… ݑ×[ª×ϝšn nÂĽĂĄ@呪¼ Â‘ÂĽÂ˜n[呪¼× ߑåŽ @eĂť@ÂĽ[ne e‘@…¼ª×å‘[ ‘ @…‘¼… [@ššne @ e‘…‘å@š  ªå‘ª¼ Ă˝ Ă“@Ăž ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ @ššªß× ĂĄÂŽn åª Ăź@ĂĄ[ÂŽ ÞªÏÓ Â˜ÂŞÂ‘ÂĽĂĄĂ—  ªÝn ‘¼ Ă“n@š 呠nb ÂŽnš‘¼… ‘¼ª‘¼å ÞªÏÓ ÓªQšn à 9ÂŽnÂĽ ‘å [ÂŞÂ nĂ— 呠n ĂĄÂŞ ÂťnĂ“|ÂŞĂ“Â ĂĄÂŽn Â‘ÂĽÂ˜n[呪¼b 厑× ĂĄn[Ž¼ªšª…Þ @ššªß× ĂĄÂŽn åª Ă—nn ‘¼×‘en ĂĄÂŽn @ÓåŽÓ‘å‘[ ™¼nn Â˜ÂŞÂ‘ÂĽĂĄ @ÂĽe enš‘ÝnĂ“ ĂĄÂŽn [Ï׎‘ª¼‘¼… Â…nš  ne‘[‘¼n : 1 ; ߎnĂ“n ‘å ÂĽnneĂ— ĂĄÂŞ QnĂ 1ÂŽn @eene QnÂĽn}ĂĄ ‘× ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ 厑× @š×ª @ššªß× ĂĄÂŽn Óª[neĂŹĂ“n ĂĄÂŞ Qn ݑÓåÏ@ššÞ Âť@‘¼šnĂ—Ă—Ă .nĂ—n@Ă“ [ÂŽ ÂŽ@Ă— ׎ªß¼ ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ ‘| Â‘ÂĽÂ˜n[呪¼× @Ă“n ÂťnĂ“|ÂŞĂ“Â ne ‘¼åª ĂĄÂŽn ™¼nn Â˜ÂŞÂ‘ÂĽĂĄ ߑ厪Ïå 厑× åޝn ÂŞ| ‘ @Â…n …Ï‘e@ÂĽ[n ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ ĂĄÂŽn Â‘ÂĽÂ˜n[呪¼  ‘…Žå  ‘×× ĂĄÂŽn ӑ…Žå šª[@呪¼ ĂŹÂť ĂĄÂŞ ʀÀ ÂŞ| ĂĄÂŽn 呠nĂ 9‘åŽ ĂĄÂŽn ĂĄn[Ž¼ªšª…Þ ĂŹĂ—ne @ĂĄ ĂĄÂŽn ĂĄÂŽÂŞĂ— n@šåŽ Ă“ÂŞĂŹÂťb ÂĽÂŞ nýnÂĽĂ—n ÂŽ@Ă— QnnÂĽ Ă—Âť@Ă“ne ĂĄÂŞ @ݪ‘e ĂĄÂŞĂĄ@š ™¼nn Ă“nš@[n nÂĽĂĄ Ă—ĂŹĂ“Â…nĂ“Ăžz

ne‘[@š [@Ă“n [@ÂĽ Qn nýn¼×‘Ýnb @ÂĽe Ă—@ešÞ ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ [ÂŞĂ—ĂĄ ÂŞ|ĂĄnÂĽ ™nn× Ă—n¼‘ªÓ× ÂŞÂĽ @ }Ă˝ne ‘¼[ÂŞÂ n |Ă“ÂŞÂ Â…nå呼… ĂĄÂŽn ĂĄĂ“n@ĂĄÂ nÂĽĂĄ ĂĄÂŽnĂž enĂ—ÂťnĂ“@ĂĄnšÞ ÂĽnneĂ 1ÂŽn Â…ÂŞÂŞe ÂĽnß× ‘× ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ ĂĄÂŽn ݑ×[ª×ϝšn nÂĽĂĄ@呪¼ ĂĄĂ“n@ĂĄÂ nÂĽĂĄĂ— ÂŞ||nĂ“ne @ĂĄ ĂĄÂŽn ĂĄÂŽÂŞĂ— n@šåŽ Ă“ÂŞĂŹÂť @Ă“n [ÂŞĂťnĂ“ne QĂž ne‘[@Ă“n @ÂĽe  @ÂĽĂž ÂŞĂĄÂŽnĂ“ ‘¼×ÏÓ@ÂĽ[n [ÂŞÂ Âť@¼‘nĂ—Ă 1Ž‘× ÂŽ@Ă— @ššªßne [ªÏ¼åšnĂ—Ă— Âť@å‘nÂĽĂĄĂ— ߑåŽ ™¼nn Âť@‘¼ ӑ…Žå ÂŽnĂ“n ‘¼ Plant City ĂĄÂŽn ªªÓåϼ‘åÞ ĂĄÂŞ Â…nĂĄ ĂĄÂŽn QnĂ—ĂĄ Ă—ĂĄ@ĂĄn ÂŞ| ĂĄÂŽn @Ă“ĂĄ [@Ă“n ߑ厪Ïå eĂ“@‘¼‘¼… ĂĄÂŽn‘Ó š‘|nĂ?Ă— Ă—@ݑ¼…× ĂĄÂŽnĂžĂ?Ăťn ߪәne Ă—ÂŞ ÂŽ@Ă“e |ÂŞĂ“Ă 1ÂŽ@ĂĄĂ?Ă— ߎÞ ĂĄÂŽn ÓªÝ‘enĂ“Ă— @ĂĄ ĂĄÂŽn ĂĄÂŽÂŞĂ— n@šåŽ Ă“ÂŞĂŹÂť @Ă“n ÂŞ||nӑ¼… @ Ă—Âťn[‘@š ™¼nn Âť@‘¼ [ª¼×Ϛå@呪¼ ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ ‘× ÂŞÂťnÂĽ ĂĄÂŞ @¼Þª¼n ‘¼ ĂĄÂŽn Plant City @Ă“n@ ߑåŽ ™¼nn Âť@‘¼ ߎª ߪϚe š‘™n ĂĄÂŞ Ă—nn ‘| ĂĄÂŽn @eĂť@ÂĽ[ne  ne‘[@š Óª[neĂŹĂ“nĂ— e‘×[ĂŹĂ—Ă—ne ÂŽnĂ“n [@ÂĽ ÂŽnš ÞªÏà 1Ž‘× [ª š‘ nÂĽĂĄ@Ă“Ăž [ª¼×Ϛå@呪¼ ‘× ÂĽÂŞ ÂŞQš‘…@呪¼ @ÂĽe @ššªß× ÂŞĂŹĂ“  ne‘[@š ĂĄn@ åª enĂĄnÓ ‘¼n ‘| ÞªÏ @Ă“n @ [@ÂĽe‘e@ĂĄn |ÂŞĂ“ 厑× ĂĄĂ“n@ĂĄÂ nÂĽĂĄĂ Ă Ă ÂŞĂ“ ‘| 厑¼…× @Ă“n ĂĄÂŞÂŞ |@Ă“ @eĂť@ÂĽ[ne @ÂĽe @ ™¼nn Ă“nš@[n nÂĽĂĄ Ă—ĂŹĂ“Â…nĂ“Ăž ‘× ÞªÏÓ ª¼šÞ ªå‘ª¼à 1Ž‘× [ª¼×Ϛå@呪¼ ‘× ÂŞÂĽn ÂŞÂĽ ÂŞÂĽn ߑåŽ ÂŞĂŹĂ“ ÓªÝ‘enĂ“Ă—b @ÂĽe ĂĄÂŽn ߪÓ×å 厑¼… ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ [@ÂĽ ÂŽ@nÂĽ ‘× ÞªÏ }ÂĽe ÂŞĂŹĂĄ 厑× ĂĄĂ“n@ĂĄÂ nÂĽĂĄ ‘× ÂĽÂŞĂĄ |ÂŞĂ“ ÞªÏà #ÂĽ ĂĄÂŽn ÂŞĂĄÂŽnĂ“ ÂŽ@ÂĽe à à à ÞªÏ  ‘…Žå }ÂĽe ĂĄÂŽn @ÂĽĂ—ĂźnĂ“ ĂĄÂŞ ÞªÏÓ Âť@‘¼ ĂĄÂŽ@ĂĄ @ššªß× ÞªÏ ĂĄÂŞ Ă“n[@åÏÓn ÞªÏÓ ÞªÏåŽà 厪× n@šåŽ Ă“ÂŞĂŹÂť ÂŽ@Ă— Ă—ĂĄ@|| Ă—ĂĄ@ÂĽe‘¼… QĂž ĂŠÂƒ ÂŽÂŞĂŹĂ“Ă— @ e@Ăž ĂĄÂŞ ĂĄ@™n ÞªÏÓ Žª¼n [@šš×à 1ÂŽn ÂĽĂŹÂ QnĂ“ ‘× (813) 365-3242b @ÂĽe eĂŹn ĂĄÂŞ ĂĄÂŽn Ž‘…Ž en @ÂĽe |ÂŞĂ“ ĂĄÂŽnĂ—n Ă—nÓݑ[nĂ—b Ă—Âť@[n ÂŽ@Ă— QnnÂĽ Ă—nĂĄ @בen |ÂŞĂ“ ĂĄÂŽn ÂĽnýå ĂŠÄ„ Âťnªšn ߎª [@šš ĂĄÂŞ Ă“nĂ—nĂ“Ăťn ĂĄÂŽn‘Ó |Ă“nn ™¼nn Âť@‘¼ [ª¼×Ϛå@呪¼à 1ÂŽn ÂĽĂŹÂ QnĂ“ @Â…@‘¼ is (813) 365-3242.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

3

THREE NEW STATE FFA OFFICERS HAIL FROM PLANT CITY AREA

Two recent Strawberry Crest graduates and one from Durant were elected by the Florida FFA Association.

JIM FRANKOWIAK CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The slate of officers recently elected by the Florida FFA Association includes three greater Plant City area residents: President James “J.P.” Prescott, Secretary-at-Large Sydney Swartman and Area 5 Vice President Cole Hanson. Prescott and Swartman recently graduated from Strawberry Crest High School and Hanson is now an alumnus of Durant High School.

Although Plant City is often represented among statewide FFA leadership, it is rare for three of the eight statewide positions to be filled by residents of a single community in one county.

“Beyond that, we have gone on from being friendly competitors for many years in FFA competitions to teammates working to advance agriculture and FFA,” Hanson said. “That’s pretty cool.”

Each Florida state officer serves a one-year term characterized by the association as being “a rewarding, but yet very serious job… considered to be a

24-hour per day job.” In addition to attending state, county and local chapter meetings, the officers have roles in various events such as the Florida State Fair, as well as state and national-level FFA meetings.

“We will also travel within the U.S. and internationally,” Prescott said. One domestic trip is to Iowa for the Iowa Ag Experience, an opportunity for Florida state officers to become familiar with crops and other Ag operations in the Upper Midwest such as corn, soy, wheat, the pork industry and dairy farms.

The Florida leadership group will travel to Spain and Portugal during their term to experience agriculture internationally. The majority of expenses for domestic and in-state travel are covered by the association, while officers must raise funds needed for their international trip.

While there is no pay associated with their year-long commitment, each will receive scholarships from the Florida FFA Foundation, University of Florida, Bank of America and Warner University, should they choose to

enroll at Warner. Hanson plans to attend Warner after his year in office and will major in Agriculture Studies and Business Management.

Prescott began his association with agriculture in the seventh grade.

“My friend Dalton Vanderford suggested that we enter a forestry competition together,” he said.

“We did and I really enjoyed that competition and have continued to do all I could to learn more about Ag.” While attending Strawberry Crest High School, Prescott was also a member of the swim team, and served as captain his senior year. Following completion of his year as Florida FFA Association President, Prescott plans to attend the University of Florida College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, studying biological engineering with “emphasis on either the biological or mechanical sides,” he said. He hopes to land a research position in the future.

Swartman was introduced to agriculture by one of her teachers, Jason Stewart.

“Mr. Stewart suggested I use my public speaking skills in my first competitive Ag event, and that led to my interest and love for agriculture,” she said.

In addition to her participation in FFA, Swartman is a martial artist, specializing in Shotokan Karate and competing with Chris Welbon Karate Clubs. UF is also in Swartman’s plan after her term as State FFA Secretary, and she plans to major in biotechnology.

“I hope to be able to create ways to farm and feed the growing population of the world,” she said.

Both Prescott and Swartman are indebted to the FFA team at Strawberry Crest High School which is led by Susan Mayo and advisors Michelle Cesario and Kelsey Humphrey. They both also owe a debt of gratitude to FFA colleagues Anna Pess, Adayden Kelly and Priscella Shreve for their friendship and support over the years.

“We would not be here without them,” said Swartman.

Hanson was introduced to agriculture by his stepfather, who showed animals while in high school.

“That sparked my love for animals and led me to 4-H competitions, starting when I was six and moving on to FFA,” Hanson said. “I ran for office and that has brought me to this dream year as a state officer. “ Durant FFA Ag instructors and FFA Advisors Tim Cribbs and Thomas Sturgis have been important mentors to Hanson.

While a very busy year has just begun for Prescott, Swartman and Hanson, they all feel the same way about a successful term.

Additionally, educating all about the importance of agriculture is of equal importance.

“People, especially our lawmakers and regulators, need to have a full understanding of the importance of our industry globally,” they said. “Being able to feed the world is at stake.”

4

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

PLANT CITY

FACEBOOK FEEDBACK

Observer

Some stories the Observer has published over the past few weeks have created quite a conversation online. Here are your thoughts on what’s happening in the city.

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editor / Sports Editor / Justin Kline JKline@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver. com Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver. com

TEXTING AND DRIVING: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW — FLORIDA’S NEW TEXTING AND DRIVING LAW IS NOW IN EFFECT. HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GET BEHIND THE WHEEL. Comments: Bret Walley: I disagree that the problem is a police officer can't take your phone.

We still have rights in this country and the police need a warrant to search your phone.

The law is pretty much unenforceable as written.

If you get pulled over, lock your phone and invoke your 5th ammendment rights, and if they ask for your phone, you can refuse to give it to them unless they have a warrant.

John Parker: Keep your navigation on when you’re in the car…lol Dennis Baxter: Don’t do it. That’s all you need to know.

Universal Crossword Edited by David Steinberg July 18,

THREE INJURED IN S.R. 60 CRASH — A SUSPECT BLEW THROUGH AN INTERSECTION AND STRUCK ANOTHER VEHICLE WHILE FLEEING FROM POLICE JULY 3.

TO ADVERTISE Call (813) 704-6850

Comments: Stacie Schroeder Vitelli: Always buckle up

Advertising / Richard Brame richard@plantcityobserver.com

Cassy Wiggins: Those kids are lucky

Advertising / Karen Berry kberry@plantcityobserver.com

Plant City chugs to stardom — Railroad fans are flocking from across the world to Plant City, and thanks to the addition of virtual streaming, thousands are tuning in every day to observe the passage of trains through downtown.

CONTACT US

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

Comments: Ray Smith: Plant City doesn’t Need to get more populated then what it is already. !!!!!!

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

Shaun Size: Ray maybe read the article. It does t say anything about people moving here.

COMMISSION ROUNDUP (JUNE 27) — THOUGH IT WAS A SHORT MEETING, CITY COMMISSIONERS EXTENDED THE LEASE INDEFINITELY FOR THE ROBERT W. WILLAFORD RAILROAD MUSEUM, 2019 REAPPOINTED LIBRARY BOARD MEMBERS AND TRANSFERRED APPROXIMATELY $99,628 TO THE NEWLY FORMED PLANT CITY 36FOUNDATION. Hanna or LIBRARY

SEND US YOUR NEWS

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

40 Try to annoy 7 Beatles’ ACROSS 41 Place for a beat guy Barbera 1 *Aftermath “me day” 8 Haifa’s Comments: 37 Polite of a white 42 Succeeds country addresses Christmas Joey Horn: wasted tax $$$ in annoying 9 Letter 38 More Black eave?

45 Springtime between Sabbath’s 7 Part of bloomers kappa Osbourne RSVP 47 With and mu 43 Gripe 10 Power grab 63-Across, 10 Chewy 44 Very calm 14 Cuban business candies 46 HGTV decapital fable with 11 Tennis star signer Ford 15 Org. with a two mice Naomi 47 Cream PreCheck ... or a hint 12 Let float, as of ___ program to a word a currency 48 Injures 16 “It comes $100 hidden in 13 Crew 49 Michelle ___ surprise” OFF any job 1000 starred 21 Included in a who orOnwrote 17 Mafia code more when you PUBLIX SEMI CRUSHED

BY TREE INeach PLANT CITY — HCSO IS ON We’re On Top of It mention this ad. answer bibliography “Becoming” of silence THE SCENE AT KNIGHTS GRIFFIN ROAD AFTER A TREE FELL ON MessTHE up VEHICLE22 50 “A ValePitcher’s TOP OF A 18 PUBLIX SEMI TRUCK, 51 SLICING IN Concerto HALF. NEW ROOFS • RE-ROOFS 52 Jalapenos’ solo passage diction: asset We’re On TILE • TILE REPAIRS We’re On Top Top of of It It Comments: spicier 24 “Be that Forbidding 19 Emulates HOT TAR/FLAT DECKS cousins way!”

Mourning” Eminem NEW ROOFS • • RE-ROOFS SHINGLES • VENTILATION NEW ROOFS RE-ROOFS TILE TILE Jennifer Landry: That’s going to take lot ofaplastic that 53 aLike sea wrap to 25hold Commands poet 20 “Alla vodka” TILE• •REPAIRED TILEREPAIRS REPAIRS LEAKS HOT TAR/FLAT DECKS HOT TAR/FLAT DECKS stuff in the trailer! battle to attack 53 Animal pair pasta SHINGLES • VENTILATION 25SHINGLES Years of E•xVENTILATION ence i r e p LEAKS LEAKSREPAIRED REPAIRED 55 Part of QED 26 Storyteller’s rescuer 21 Signature Betty Messick:Maryland This happened to me…i am gladvalue the driver wasn’t hurt 252Y5eYaerasrsofofEExxppeerrieiennccee 56 Jack’s “fast forward” 54 Oftenin blackjack 30 ___ of repeated appetizers – WE FIX LEAKS NO ONE ELSE CAN! 57 Tuna attritionLeak & Re-Roofing tales&Specialists 23 Bon ___ Re-Roofing Specialists – WE FIX LEAKSNO NOONE ONE ELSE ELSE CAN! CAN! LeakLeak & Re-Roofing Specialists – WE FIX LEAKS Free Estimates • Financing Available relative 32 PC support 57 Stealthy (cleaner Service 58 BBs and 33 Splits up 24-Hour Emergency email letters brand) 24-Hour Emergency Service 24-Hour Emergency Service Buddy &Owners Crystal Cheaves, Owners such 34 Notable Buddy & CrystalBuddy 24 *Insurance Cheaves, Crystal Cheaves, Owners www.BuddysRoofing.com Lic & # CCC1325993 • Bonded & Insured Bonded &•Insured 59 Anderson times Lic # CCC1325993 might www.BuddysRoofing.com Lic #•CCC1325993 Bonded & Insured www.BuddysRoofing.com Cooper’s cover it This week’s Sudoku answers channel This week’s Crossword This week’s 25 Singled out PREVIOUS PUZZLEanswers ANSWER Celebrity Cipher answers 60 Tropic of ___ on stage 61 Old Russian 27 Put on monarch board 62 Half a laugh 28 McKellen 63 See who Puzzle Solution: 47-Across portrayed “Songs are funny things. ... I DOWN Gandalf always believed that the right song 1 Breakfast 29 Over again at the right moment could change chain that 31 Beethoven history.” temporarily dedicatee ~ Pete Seeger flipped its 35 *Made “p” to a “b” something 2 Broke into with pieces unexpected 3 50-50 bet conse4 “Rats!” quences 39 Composer 5 Pot starter 7/17 © 2019 Andrews McMeel Universal Jule 6 Goat’s call www.upuzzles.com

BUDDY’S ROOFING ROOFING

468318-1 468318-1

RESRIEDSEINDTENIATLIA&L & OMM ERECRICAIALL COCM

Mail: The Plant City Observer, 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103, Plant City, FL 33563

Facebook: Plant City Observer Instagram: @plcobserver Twitter: @PlantObserver

O

468318-1

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

813-982-0218 813-982-0218 813-982-0218

287477-1

$

BUDDY’S ROOFING BUDDY’S

To contact us, send your information via: Email: Sarah Holt, SHolt@PlantCityObserver. com.

Plant City Observer

is locally owned by Ed Verner, Karen Berry, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes The Plant City Observer is published by Plant City Media LLC.

1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103 Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 704-6850

Publishers of the

Plant City Observer

PlantCityObserver.com ©Copyright Plant City Media LLC 2018 All Rights Reserved

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

5

PC WELCOMES MAJOR DEVELOPMENT Lakeside Logistics Park will soon be home to a new 1,400 acre development that is set to have Phase I completed

by Spring 2020.

Courtesy photo

The 1,400 acre development will ensure local corporations and businesses will have immediate access to materials and goods thanks to the massive logistics center.

STAFF WRITER

Plant City will soon be home to a new project at Lakeside Logistics. A 1,400-acre development on Henderson Way is officially underway and is scheduled to provide half-day truck service to a large portion of Florida’s 21 million residents.

With the rise of e-commerce, companies are demanding sameday delivery for many of their goods and a massive warehouse for an industrial tenant helps combat that necessary market requirement.

“In close proximity to consumers, labor and a confluence of heavily-trafficked roadways, Lakeside Logistics is the perfect spot for an industrial tenant who wants easy access not only to

d

85

ed free

Emergency TILE & GROUT Emergency

Water 24-HR. 24-HR. Water Extractions Extractions 50c per sq.ft. Storm, Storm, Broken Pipes, Broken Pipes, etc. etc.

Steam Cleaned

CARPETS

ing choose Plant City as its home base.

The I-4 corridor is primed as the perfect location to house a logistics facility as Orlando, Tampa, I-75, I-275 and many other major roadways are less than an hour away. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to restock Florida corporations, Salcido said, and the demand for in-state centers of this nature are on the rise.

“If you were to take the I-4 corridor and describe it as a state, that would be the fourth-fastest growing state in the nation,” Salcido said. “When you’re talking about that kind of growth, it is only natural that you ensure there is readily available access to sites like Lakeside Logistics Park.”

As ideal as the general location of Plant City is, the character of the community has long put it on the radar of Appleyard, who has done business in town for several years. The passion that is found in its citizens is unparalleled and he said it’s crucial the company remained plugged into the community and sensitive to the impact any development could have on the area.

James Proffitt, with Ascentris, agreed adding the goal is to create the ability to effectively serve Florida in the process of distribu-

tion. The companies have been eyeing the corridor for quite some time and when discussions began in Plant City they quickly realized they had found a hidden gem.

The major impact out the gate is simple: a massive wave of jobs is on the way.

The logistics park will tackle a few targets ranging from finished goods to restock to retail and possibly manufacturing. Staffing will come hand-in-hand with the development and Salcido said the “employment impact could be quite significant.”

“There’s so much, even in a city of this size, there’s always something going on,” Austin said.

“The job potential alone that will come as a result of this project is something that is going to make a massive impact on the community. Our job at the EDC is to make sure there’s no issues along the way, to help the conversations flow between interested parties and the city.”

Jim Rufrano, of HGR Construction, said the team began working on the site this Monday. They estimated a 10-month timeline to complete Phase I. As the phases come into existence, the project is promised to serve as long-term economic growth for Plant City.

TILE & GROUTSTATE FARM® AGENT

Steam Cleaned

Steam Cleaned

3 Rooms $85

50c per sq.ft.

includes Hallway cleaned free

Water Extraction 24-Hr Service | Carpet Dyeing & Repairs

www.AllSaintscc.com 813-986-1266 813-986-1266 www.AllSaintscc.com 813-986-1266 www.AllSaintscc.com

| Carpet Dyeing & Repairs

ntscc.com

development plans are officially underway. Phase I of the development will deliver a “36 foot clear, 500,000+ square foot, crossdock warehouse distribution facility,” which is expected to be completed in early Spring 2020.

Subsequent phases are loosely in the planning stages and will range from 100,000 to 1,000,000 square feet, with the expectation that Lakeside Logistics II, which is the project’s second phase, is to be delivered sometime in 2020.

Work has already begun as of this week and it will be a quick process from here to bring the facility to life. Bob Appleyard, with Sunrise Homes, said Plant City has really demonstrated a commitment to bringing development to town in the last several years, especially following the extension of utilities down County Line Road.

Thanks to the assistance of Jake Austin, president of the Plant City Economic Development Corporation, the company was able to work closely with City Manager Bill McDaniel on this project and they said the city welcomed the opportunity to have such a massive undertak-

287396-1

S

Orlando and Tampa, but to just about any market throughout the state,” Moses Salcido, Principal of Development & Investment for Foundry Commercial, said.

“The site is located within miles of two international airports, a shipping port and railways. We are delighted at the prospect of not only bringing Class A logistics facilities to the region and accommodating this demand, but in bringing new jobs to the region as well. This project was made more attractive by economic incentives from the local municipality, emphasizing the area’s pro-business stance, which we know is important to any new tenants who will occupy this space.”

Foundry along with Ascentris, a Denver-based real estate private equity firm, announced that

Tony Lee CLU, CHFC 813.752.7202

Auto | Annuities | Home | Life | Small Businesses | Retirement

813-986-1266 1702 S. Alexander, Plant City, FL 33563

288231-1

BREANNE WILLIAMS

6

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL DONATES BIG BUCKS TO UNITED FOOD BANK OF PLANT CITY

The festival gave the food bank more than $30,000 last week.

Justin Kline

The check presentation ceremony was held at the Florida Strawberry Festival’s main office.

SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

When school’s out for summer, it can be harder for some kids to get regular meals. The United Food Bank of Plant City always aims to fight that problem and, now with a boost from the Florida Strawberry Festival, that fight just got a whole lot easier.

Festival directors presented UFB director Mary Heysek with a check for $30,875 on July 11 in a small ceremony held in the FSF main office’s front lobby.

“I think we’re in the right direction, and I think it comes under

the umbrella of serving the community,” director Dub McGinnes said. “That’s really what the festival does in so many ways.

We’re part of the community and we want to give back… we’re so proud of the work you and your staff do at the food bank” The donation was made possible with the money raised from the 2019 Strawberry Ball’s ticket sales, auctions and sponsorships.

Every single penny went to the food bank, which has been the case for the last three years.

“You’re a fireball,” Festival president Paul Davis told Heysek.

“You are really passionate about what you do and I, personally, get really excited when I hear you talking about the differences you make in people’s lives… I think that really goes a long way and makes everybody get up off that wall.”

Davis was quick to commend the sponsors, the ball committee and everyone else who helped make this Strawberry Ball possible for working tirelessly to put on such a successful event on all fronts, from putting together a quality event to getting people excited to give to the food bank.

287682-1

JUSTIN KLINE

“It’s a big part of what we do,” Davis said. “The ball was kind of floundering. We all knew it. It had become a chore for people to go to, but I think coming up with a charity has really made it different and everybody really got involved. We’re really excited to be a part of it.”

Heysek said the money will go a long way toward keeping the shelves full of food and drink in its busiest time of the year. As was reported in a June 13, 2019 story in the Plant City Observer, the UFB is giving out roughly 600 bags of food to local families every week

this summer and helps numerous students of all ages throughout the year when they need meals, toiletries and other essentials.

“We’re the only food bank serving this area and we have the highest poverty rate in all of the county,” Heysek said.

If you would like to donate any items or funds to UFB, stop by during business hours or call 813-764-0625 for more information.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

7

COMMISSION ROUNDUP: BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS

Many major projects are underway thanks to the budget adjustments approved last Monday by the city.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The cost quoted by Clay County, Florida to Rep Services, Inc. which is available via piggyback, found the installation of the swings and the EWF safety fall zones is $78,546.53. This massive undertaking will tackle five target locations: Marie B. Ellis Park - $25,292.61 to replace the swing set, install EWF for swing set and playground Burchwood Park – $21,584.77 to replace the swing set, install EWF for swing set and playground Gilchrist Park – $10,987.83 to replace the swing set, install EWF for swing set Mike Sansone Park - $18,468.47 to replace the swing set, install EWF for swing set and playground Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex (west) - $2,212.85 to install EWF for playground Commissioners also agreed to sign a Hillsborough County grant agreement to make improvements at Ellis-Methvin Park.

The park, which is 46 acres, has recently hosted many events of regional impact to the county and a special presentation was made to the Hillsborough County Tourist Development Council on Feb. 28 in an attempt to secure funding to assist with the already proposed construction of a building at the park.

The building will act as a concession sales area with restrooms on the bottom and an event management space

on the second floor. It will be built on the peninsula at the pond. The 2,650-square foot building will have six fixtures in both restrooms, a concession preparation and serving area, storage space, a 700-square foot upper floor and an open floor plan for tournament management and security.

The projected cost is just over $1,000,000 for the total project. The TDC voted to award $500,000 in matching funds for this project.

Now that funding is secured, the city will move forward with detailed design work.

Once the design is finalized, there will be bidding, the bid review and bid award, construction and, finally, occupancy. The occupancy is anticipated for the summer of 2020.

The city also agreed to increase the CIP budget by $18,500 for the Railroad Quiet Zones project to cover the cost of general liability and excess liability insurance. The insurance is required by CSX Transportation prior to construction of the Quiet Zone improvements, which the city is having put in place downtown near the upcoming Midtown development.

The McIntosh Tract Property Development project budget was also increased by $300,000 to record the LLI Grant Agreement from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. This will be used to ensure the park offers walking trails, viewing areas and nature access opportunities to the public. The 50 percent match has already been appropriated from the impact fees.

Time for New Glasses?

813.754.3593 2002 S. Alexander St. Plant City, FL 33563

The struggle between fashion and function is officially declared a tie!

Never before have eyeglass frames been offered in so many stylish choices. Yet, you’ll be amazed at how many options are at your fingertips to help you see well and protect your vision!

287857-1

www.drgaffney.com

Dr. Jeremy H. Gaffney O.D. Dr. Barry M. Gaffney, O.D. PA Dr. Daniel G. Gaffney O.D.

Breanne Williams

Several parks, including Ellis-Methvin and McIntosh, will soon see improvements.

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019 159.85'

9.14'

LET THE CAFFEINE FLOW

EXIST CONCRETE SIGN BASE SIZE AND LOCATION TO BE VERIFIED PROPOSED SIGN LOCATION

24'

9' 9'

FFE = 146.25

44'

33.17'

19'

9'

30'

12'

20' 25.02' 15.05'

19'

12'

6'

24.26'

9'

5'

20'

GREEN DRIVE THRU ENTRANCE ARROW PER STARBUCK'S CRITERIA

13.5'

BOLLARD (TYP AT ALL DRIVE-THRU EQUIPMENT)

5'

PREVIEW PANEL R2'

20'

DUMPSTER ENCLOSURE

DETECTABLE WARNING STRIP

24.7'

R5'

CLEARANCE BAR R5'

R2'

PRE-MENU BOARD GREEN DIRECTION TO DRIVE THRU LANE (TYP) WHITE ROLLOVER LANES (TYP)

4.6'

ORDER PANEL

24'

25.49'

10.26' R22'

R5'

DIRECTIONAL SIGN

0.67'

R35'

22.89'

WHEEL STOP (TYP)

9'

R15'

6" THICK CONCRETE (BLACK INTEGRAL STAIN)

4.3'

DIRECTIONAL SIGN

19.88'

6.25'

9'

24'

'

26

2'

2'

9'

BIKE RACK

19'

BOLLARD

PROPOSED BUILDING 2500 SF

5' 12'

HANDICAP SIGN (TYP) R3'

17'±

±5' SWALE

6.16'

39" 10'

12'

KEYED HOSE BIBB LOCATION

44"

R1-1 R10' 6" DOUBLE YELLOW LINE 24" WHITE STOP BAR

the Starbucks Reports Q2 Fiscal 2019 Results, and you can create more than 87,000 drink combinations based on its extensive menu once you start finagling the core beverages and all of the customizable options and modifiers.

Last year, the Marathon at 2851 Thonotosassa Road submitted site plans to demolish and rebuild the Marathon station, while adding a Dunkin Donuts to the building. The site plan was reviewed and approved in October 2018, but they have yet to move forward on construction. If they end up following through, there will be two Starbucks and two Dunkin Donuts stores available for local coffee enthusiasts.

STARBUCKS FACTS Starbucks spends more on healthcare for employers who work 20 hours a week or more than coffee beans every year. They spend approximately $300 million annually on healthcare.

The average customer goes to Starbucks six times a month. Their loyal 20 percent of customers, however, go approximately 16 times per month.

The cup sizes are more than they appear.

Though the menu only mentions a tall, grande and venti, there are actually two other sizes available. The trenta holds 31 ounces and is only for iced drinks and the “short cup,” which is usually what children’s hot chocolate is served in, holds eight ounces.

Meet your master: If you spot an employee behind the bar with a black apron, they are certified coffee masters. Essentially this coveted employee knows everything there is to know about coffee and have proven themselves time and again at the caffeine helm.

Starbucks has more than 300,000 employees across the globe, according to statistics from 2016.

Since 1987, Starbucks has expanded with the addition of an average of two stores a day worldwide.

Starbucks uses more than 93 million gallons of milk per year, which is enough to fill up 155 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Florida is the sixth state most populated

by Starbucks. California, Texas, Washington, Illinois and New York all have more.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR THIS WEEK’S SAVINGS Mon-Sat 7am - 9pm | Sundays 7am - 8pm At Felton’s we offer a complete line of fresh meat and produce. You’ll find only the best quality meats at bargain prices. Whether it be that special occasion dinner, or you are planning a large party, call or stop by today. No matter what your needs, Felton’s is sure to have the finest, most tender meat and tasty produce anywhere.

289695-1

1003 S. Collins St. a026519@allstate.com

Felton’s Market CHOICE MEATS • PRODUCE • GROCERIES

Visit FeltonsMarket.com

WALKER PLAZA 617 N. Maryland Ave., Plant City (813) 752-1548

Sam Allen Rd.

39

PLANT CITY Baker St. olds

Reyn

St.

4 County Line Rd.

Feola Insurance Agency 813-752-2556

Park Rd.

When you don’t have car accidents, you cost less to insure. I can help you save up to 14% off your premium. And that’s just for starters. Call me first to get the discounts you deserve.

Northbrook, IL. © 2013 Allstate Insurance Co.

Courtesy of the City of Plant City

FRESHEST MEAT & LOWEST PRICES IN TOWN!

I help safe drivers save up to 14%.

Discounts are subject to terms, conditions and availability. Actual savings will vary. Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co.

174.93'

Proposed site plan for Starbucks.

Maryland Ave.

ing on the site of the former Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan/Center State Bank. It will be in the same plaza as Taco Bell and Beef O’Brady’s right at the corner of the intersection.

Nestled at the corner of James L. Redman Parkway and Alexander Street, the location is planned to have a 624-square foot patio and a pick-up window facing T-Mobile and Hibbett Sports. Parking shouldn’t be an issue as the location is proposed to have more than 30 spots and extensive room for a drive-thru window.

Starbucks has carved an empire in the coffee community since its inception in 1971 in Seattle, Washington.

With approximately 30,000 locations globally it is the behemoth of quickservice coffee. In its loyalty program alone the company has more than 16.8 million active members, according to

EXIT - THANK YOU SIGN

12'

12' 9'

2' 21.5'

EXIST EASEMENT

WHITE EXIT ARROWS PER STARBUCK'S CRITERIA

1'

FLUSH SIDEWALK DETECTABLE WARNING STRIP

R1-1 24" WHITE STOP BAR

6.25'

2'

30'

5.67'

9' ±15' SWALE

R3'

PICK-UP WINDOW 21.5'

214.34'

R3' R4'

R1-1

55.19' 99.73'

19.2'

9'

R4'

PATIO 624 SF

22.31'

5'

'

LANDSCAPE BARRIER R5-1

R7'

R10'

SIDEWALK WITH 6" RAISED CURB

24" WHITE STOP BAR

R15'

.8

PATIO TO BE STAMPED CONCRETE OR PAVERS (REFER TO ARCH PLANS)

3'-6" HIGH RAILING SEE DETAIL ON SHEET 9 AND REFER TO ARCH PLANS

24'

21.5' 2' 21.5'

DETECTABLE WARNING STRIP 19'

R5'

12" WHITE CROSSWALK

TYPE 'D' CURB (TYP)

21

220.05'

26.3'

R40'

R4' R4'

26.4'

6" DOUBLE YELLOW LINE

DETECTABLE WARNING STRIP

20.15'

THESE PLANS MAY NOT BE COPIED AND/ OR MODIFIED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM AVID GROUP® COPYRIGHT 2013

K:\PROJECTS\3200\3276004\DWG\CURRENT\CIVIL\3276004-HCP.DWG, 7/1/2019 10:27:28 AM, David McKone

DIRECTIONAL SIGN

9'

DRIVE SAFE & SAVE.

287497-1

26'

5'

9'

Caffeine junkies have a reason to celebrate. Starbucks has submitted a site plan to the Plant City Planning & Zoning Board for a second location in town.

It’s the answer to a withdrawalfueled dream as the current Starbucks, which was renovated in January, is far from the heart of downtown. Located right across from I-4, the current Starbucks frequently faces long lines and a packed parking lot. A second location ensures locals won’t have to face off with commuters to get a hot cup of joe, especially on Sundays and Mondays when the beloved Krazy Kup coffee house in historic downtown is closed.

The site plan for the 2400 James L. Redman Parkway location was submitted last week and shows plans to develop a 2,500-square foot build-

12.5'

2' WIDE RIBBON CURB (TYP) 26'

2'

.4' 20

STAFF WRITER

±25' SWALE

2'

19'

13.48'

A new Starbucks is coming to James L. Redman Parkway following a site submission for a second location.

BREANNE WILLIAMS

EXIST SIDEWALK 136 SF CONCRETE SIDEWALK 19.43' 12.5'

±6' LANDSCAPE BUFFER

5.98'

EXISTING FH ASSEMBLY

20'

|

5.34'

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

100' (ORDER POINT TO PICK UP WINDOW)

8

92

GARAGE DOOR REPAIR & SERVICE Chris 813.417.6849

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Ask s abouu ta % Dis1c0 ount

Tony 813.404.7819

287687-1

287727-1

CAMERON 110 W. Reynolds Street | Suite 109, Plant City, FL 33563 michael@cameronfm.com | CAMERONFM.COM Securities Offered Through LPL Financial

Members FINRA/SIPC

Michael S.Cameron Financial Advisor

813.759.8485

Lakeland

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

9

LOCAL ORGS ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR HILLSBOROUGH GRANT The Arts Council of Hillsborough County is hoping to see organizations from across all of the county apply for the Community Arts Impact Grant and will be hosting local workshops to walk groups through the process.

The Arts Council of Hillsborough County is holding workshops to encourage local organizations to apply for the Community Arts Impact Grant, which can add up to $5,000 to a fiscal budget.

The new CAIG program was created to help “make arts and cultural opportunities more accessible for underserved populations across Hillsborough County.”

Whether it’s someone’s first or 50th time applying for a grant, the Arts Council is here to help ensure the process is seamless in hopes of opening doors to new applicants.

“The council is really putting in an effort of spreading funding outside of Tampa,” Clay Hollenkamp, member of the Board of Directors of the Arts Council of Hillsborough County, said. “This is a county grant, not a city of Tampa grant, so we want to make sure lesser-funded areas out of the county are served as well, areas like Plant City or Wimauma. We love Tampa, don’t get me wrong, we just want to make sure the funding is accessible for everyone.”

The CAIG program is project-specific and awarded on a competitive basis. The applications are judged on community engagement and impact, cultural and artistic merit of each project and financial and administrative oversight.

It is a reimbursement grant, so if you request the full $5,000 and are awarded it, you must have $5,000 already available to use up front and the grant will pay you back.

Eligible projects must take place between Nov. 1, 2019 and Sept. 15, 2020 and all applications must be completed by Aug. 23. A panel will review the submissions at 1:30 p.m. Sept. 17 All applicants must be a 501(c)3 organization and must be registered as an active nonprofit Florida corporation with the Florida Division of Corporations with a principal address in Hillsborough County. The applying groups must also be apolitical and nonideological.

To fit the requirements the total project cost may not exceed $50,000 and applicants can request anywhere between $1,000 and $5,000.

The grant is designed to help further any cultural projects, either dance, folk arts, media arts, music, theater, etc. and the activities have to be open to the general public. If the project is created to elevate and advance arts and culture in the community, it more than likely is eligible for the grant.

The primary focus of the event has to be a community impact though arts and cultural programming.

Hollenkamp said it’s not a terribly difficult grant to write and because the Arts Council wants first-timers to feel comfortable wading through the application process, they are hosting free workshops

across the county to analyze the ins and outs of the grant.

Last year, Hollenkamp said he was on the grant panel and only remembers seeing one Plant City organization apply. Grant writing can be tricky, but he said there’s no excuse to not try and take advantage of free money, especially when there’s so much help available to guide you through the process.

The workshop held in Plant City will be at the 1914 High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins St. at 2 p.m. July 31. Registration is available online at tampaarts.org/workshop-registration and if you can’t make the Plant City date, workshops in Tampa, Riverview and Ruskin are also available.

While he said he won’t speak to the motives of local organizations, Hollenkamp said he thinks some of the reason for a lack of applications from local groups may lie simply in a lack of awareness that the program exists. It’s a big part of why the council is doing workshops in several locations throughout the county. They want everyone to know they are here and help them take that first step toward applying.

The actual act of the grant writing process may also keep some from trying to format their application. Yes, it can be intimidating, but Hollenkamp said this is one of the simpler grants available. Pair that with the step-by-step instructions offered at the workshops and everyone should be able to craft their application with ease. Hollenkamp said he frequently finds himself writing grant applications for his job and knows firsthand how painful the process, if unguided, can be. But he’s confident this is a simple first step for those wanting to get their toes wet in grant writing.

If you want to host a new event or add some support to an event your organization has been throwing for years this may be the perfect fit for your group. Having the assistance of up to $5,000 greatly expands the ability of many of the smaller organizations who work tirelessly making waves in their community.

Funding for this program is provided by the Hillsborough Board of County Commissioners and managed by the Arts Council. If you have questions about the program, eligibility or application, contact Joe Federico at 813.276.8250 or federicoj@ hillsboroughcounty.org.

“We have some awesome organizations in Plant City and I just want to see them have every opportunity so they can enlarge and offer even more things,” Hollenkamp said. “These organizations have their mission and are great at what they do, but with this extra support they can further that goal. It’s just in all of our interest to take as much advantage of these things as possible.”

File photos

Many of the events held in Plant City by local organizations could qualify for the new grant.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit: tampaarts.org/grants/community-arts-impact-grants To register: tampaarts.org/workshop-registration/ Plant City workshop: 2 p.m. July 31 at the 1914 High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins St.

GOT PESTS?

DIVORCE | WILLS | EVICTIONS Starting at $65 SERVING ALL FLORIDA

1-888-847-1997

(SINCE 1992)

291121-1

• 1-Signature Divorce • Missing Spouse Divorce “We Come To You”

The only bug you should have in your home or business is the one in our logo!

• Roach & Ant Control • German Roaches HOME PROTECTION • Bees • Ground Hornets PEST CONTROL • Fleas & Ticks • Quarterly & Semi-Annual Service

• Rodent Control • Spiders • Silverfish

Steve Paul, Owner Lic. # JB 138531

homeprotectionpc.com | 813.757.6752 | Cell: 813.716.0623 | Hours: 8am-5pm M-F • Sat by appt.

287865-1

Family Owned & Operated Since 2006 • 19 Years Experience

10

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

ONE DEAD IN CRASH ON WIGGINS ROAD

A car veered off the road, crashing into a speed limit sign and then a tree. The passenger was pronounced dead at the scene and the driver is in critical condition.

A passenger died Monday evening after a collision on Wiggins Road in Plant City.

Around 6:10 p.m. HCSO said a driver of a 2006 Saturn SUV was heading southbound on Wiggins Road, just south of US 92. The report said he was driving approximately 45 mph and for an unknown reason drove off the roadway to the west and struck a speed limit sign and then a tree at 801 Wiggins Road.

The driver was transported to Tampa General Hospital with serious injuries and is in critical condition at this time.

His passenger, who was in the right front seat, suffered fatal injuries as a result of the impact and was pronounced dead at the scene, according to HCSO. It is unknown at this time if alcohol or drugs were involved in the accident.

This is an ongoing investigation.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

THOUSANDS PREPARE TO JOURNEY TO PC For the next five weeks thousands of travelers will be pouring into town to participate in the global “Love Never Fails” Jehovah’s Witness Convention at the local assembly hall.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Thousands of guests will flood Plant City over the course of the next five weeks as the Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses on Frontage Road prepares for a massive convention.

Plant City is joining in the global conventions spanning six continents and more than 200 countries. The global convention, titled “Love Never Fails,” will be presented worldwide in more than 400 languages, four of which will be highlighted at the local hall.

Daniel Fisher, the Jehovah’s Witnesses media coordinator for the Plant City venue, estimates more than 5,500 people will be in attendance over the course of the five weekend conventions with the potential of up to 1,300 coming in every weekend.

“We have a three-day convention every year,” Fisher said. “This year’s theme is “Love Never Fails.”

We always have a scripturallybased theme and the brothers

responsible for the convention, including all of the talks and agenda items, pick a theme that’s appropriate for the time. Unfortunately, in the time we live in now, this seems like an appropriate theme. More than 14 million people across the world are going to hear a cohesive message that so much more can be accomplished with love than by some of the other approaches we see in the world. There’s so much forcefulness, but we try to return to the Bible whenever possible and, of course, the overriding Christian principle is love.”

The convention has already kicked off, and in Houston alone the assembly averaged approximately 50,000 attendees a day.

The Tampa convention for English and Spanish speakers will be held at the fairgrounds for five weekends: three in English, two in Spanish.

Fisher said it’s always been important that the convention be held in the native tongues of many Jehovah’s Witnesses throughout

the world. In Plant City, the message will be held in Haitian Creole for two weeks, American Sign Language for one week, Portuguese for one week and Tagalog for another.

People are traveling from as far west as Texas, throughout all of the Gulf states and all the way up to North Carolina. Fisher said the assembly hall in Plant City is absolutely stunning and when folks realize they have an opportunity to attend an event in town, they’re always quick to sign up.

“Plant City is not only a beautiful venue, it’s also such a nice town,” Fisher said. “Everyone here is so friendly and we love showing off the community whenever people come to town.”

Between the abundance of hotel rooms being booked for three or more nights, restaurant visits and shopping, he expects the nearly 6,000 total attendees will bring an estimated $450,000 to $500,000 in revenue for local merchants.

CUTEST CRITTER

Do you want Plant City to see how cute your favorite pets are? Send your pictures to Staff Writer Breanne Williams at bwilliams@plantcityobserver.com to be featured.

BENJAMIN: Few things in this world are as adorable as a Goldendoodle. Kathy and Jim Flemisters love spending time with their “granddog” Benjamin. He is less than a year old and is sure to be showering his family with love and his playful antics for years to come.

ONLINE

LANTUS: Lantus is soaking in all the summer fun at his new home. He and his family just moved from Houston, Texas and the 17-hour drive was the longest experience of his life. His owner said after they finally arrived, they went for a walk and he was thrilled to see his new home.

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

DATES FOR “LOVE NEVER FAILS” CONVENTION IN PLANT CITY July 19 to 21 — Haitian Creole July 26 to 28 — Haitian Creole August 2 to 4 — American Sign Language (ASL) August 9 to 11 — Portuguese August 16 to 18 —Tagalog

11

12

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW HOME A recent study by Business Insider announced Plant City was one of the Top 25 suburbs in America where home values are growing the fastest.

BREANNE WILLIAMS

File photo

Families are flocking to Plant City thanks to rising home values and a blossoming economy.

STAFF WRITER

Plant City was named one of the top 25 suburbs in America where home values are growing the fastest.

An analysis of median home values from May 2014 to May 2019 by Business Insider, in partnership with Zillow, created a list of 25 suburbs which had a population between 50,000 and 100,000, highlighting the ideal locations in the U.S. for families to plant their roots. Of those, 12 were in Florida and three in Georgia. Plant City neared the top of the list due to the fact that over the past five years, the median home value has increased by 70.5 percent.

“Our city commission and staff have worked hard to keep Plant City an affordable place to live,” Mayor Rick Lott said.

“Plant City has one of the lowest taxes on

the I-4 corridor. We have a major focus on job growth and rising wages. People are realizing that Plant City is a great place to live and raise a family. I believe we are on the right path with an even brighter future.”

With a population of 78,500, Plant City is flourishing. Nestled along the I-4 corridor, it acts as a harbor between Tampa and Orlando. Those who work or enjoy spending time in the city, but want the amenities of living in a rural destination, are flocking to the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. A recent study by the U.S. Census Bureau found that suburbs in the Southern and Western United States are growing exponentially in both popularity and price.

“One interesting trend we are seeing this year is that metro areas not among the

Your livelihood has been built through hard work and integrity.

Trust your insurance to a company built on these same values.

Your livelihood has been built through hard work and integrity.

Trust your insurance to a company built on these same values.

THE BEST LOCAL

THE BEST LOCAL AGENCY INSURANCE INSURANCE AGENCY • 000-000-0000 CITY •CITY 000-000-0000 www.bestinsuranceagency.com www.bestinsuranceagency.com

280492

Plant City | 813.752.4155 www.poppellinsurance.com

most populous are ranked in the top 10 for population growth,” said Sandra Johnson, a demographer in the Census Bureau’s Population Division. “Though no new metro areas moved into the top 10 largest areas, Phoenix, Seattle, Austin and Orlando all experienced numeric increases in population since 2010, rivaling growth in areas with much larger populations. This trend is consistent with the overall growth we are seeing in the south and the west.”

Hillsborough County ranked number ten in the Top 10 Counties in Numeric Growth from 2017 to 2018, growing by 26,773 in a single year. Tampa and St. Petersburg ranked number nine in Top 10 Metropolitan Areas in Numeric Growth from 2017 to 2018 and Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford ranked number five. With Plant City lying

between the two, many incoming residents are seeking out housing in the rural town while they commute to work each day.

A multitude of studies over the last five years have found that long-time city dwellers are turning their eyes toward greener pastures, especially when it comes time to raise their families.

With several massive residential communities on the way, Plant City seems ready to open its arms to the influx of residents as it continues to attempt to find the perfect balance between agriculture and industry, residential and commercial. After all, as Lott frequently mentions in commission meetings, the goal of city leaders is to ensure Plant City is the ideal place to work, live and play.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

13

BRUTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY GEARING UP FOR BUSY FALL FELIX HAYNES

Keep your eye on Bruton Memorial Library over the next few months, because Library Director Tonda Morris is gearing up for some big things in the Plant City library’s future to make it even better.

First gear will be this year’s Mystery Dinner Theater, sponsored by the Friends of the Library. I was new in Plant City when Dr. Hal Brewer asked me to play a bit part in the Library’s Mystery Dinner Theater.

“Really, Felix,” he said with his engaging smile, “all you have to do is play yourself. Come to the Campus Auditorium and interrupt the play. Run down the aisle yelling and complaining about how much the Dinner Theater is interfering with a good education.”

How could I say no? Boy, did I have fun, and Hal had brought one more Plant City person into one of his labors of love.

In honor of Brewer, this year’s 20th Mystery Dinner is still being staged at the HCC Campus. “Wrangle at Red Mountain Ranch”, by Nancy Bond, will be performed at the Trinkle Center after a delicious dinner catered by 911 Catering on Aug. 16.

This year’s cast includes Jon Poppell, Steve Otto, Mike Floyd, Carmen Brownlee, Sharon Moody, Michelle Valdes, John Belcher, Robert McClelland, Jeremy Rhodes, Shanna Kennedy, and Amy Nizamoff. Billy Herold will host.

The Plant City Elks Club, Plant City Noon Rotary Club, and Unity in the Community will be sponsors. Tickets are $75 each and can be purchased at the library or Regions Bank on Thonotosassa Road. All

IT’S READ EVERYWHERE Did you take the Observer with you on vacation? Send your pictures to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com to be featured.

ITALY: Plant City residents Ruby Wall, Mary Ann Fussell and Peggy Farkas recently com-

pleted a two-week tour of Italy and snapped a photo with the Observer in the town of San Gimignano.

proceeds benefit programs at the Bruton Memorial Library.

Rumors have been circulating around town about the second gear of Tonda’s engine, our new Bruton Memorial Library Foundation. The Foundation has been jump-started by a major request received by the city to support the library’s future growth.

Tonda’s third gear will be a special community event planned for the evening of Thursday, October 10, at the library.

Hosted by the Library Board, the Friends of the Library, and the new Foundation, the Open House will not only unveil the new Foundation, but will also be used to tell the community about all the good things going on at Bruton. Dessert will be served.

The nearly 14,000 patrons who come through our Library’s doors every month

know about all the good things at Bruton, but they also know that its many services are delivered in a building that is almost 60 years old. The Library Board, the Friends, and the Foundation know that a building that old needs to create a fourth gear to overhaul the Library’s engine and make it new again.

Stay tuned to Bruton’s activities over the next few months, because you may just hear more details about that new fourth gear. And while you’re at it, buy tickets to the Mystery Dinner Theater at the library or Regions Bank and mark your calendar for the library’s October 10 Open House.

We think you’ll be glad you did.

14

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

SFBH RECEIVES AHA/ASA AWARD Due to the hospital’s impeccable care of stroke patients, South Florida Baptist Hospital has received an award from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

South Florida Baptist Hospital has once again proved its dedication to care after receiving the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines Target: Stroke Honor Roll Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award.

The hospital received the honor due to its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the best and most appropriate treatments according to the nationally recognized and research-based guidelines, which are routinely updated to reflect the latest scientific data.

“South Florida Baptist Hospital is dedicated to improving the quality of care for our stroke patients by implementing the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines-Stroke initiative,” Karen Kerr, hospital president, said. “The tools and resources provided help us track

and measure our success in meeting evidenced-based clinical guidelines developed to improve patient outcomes.”

The award is given out based on specific quality achievement measures for both the diagnosis and treatment of local stroke patients. Some of the measures include the “evaluation of the proper use of medications and other stroke treatments aligned with the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines with the goal of speeding recovery and reducing death and disability for stroke patients.”

One thing that also sets the hospital apart is the fact it goes above and beyond the call of duty when patients are discharged, ensuring they receive ample education on managing their health, get a follow-up appointment scheduled and other transition interventions that make the difference in exceptional care.

Strokes are the number five cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability in the United States. In this country

File photo

SFBH has shown exceptional care to its stroke patients and thus received a special honor.

alone, someone suffers a stroke every 40 seconds, with nearly 795,000 people suffering a new or recurrent stroke each year.

Of those, 600,000 are first attacks.

Almost three quarters of the stroke patients are over the age of 65 and the risk of having a stroke more than doubles for every decade of age after someone turns 55. Having high blood pressure is the most important risk factor for strokes and it is crucial people monitor their health to ensure they’re keeping their bodies as healthy as possible.

The American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association also awarded SFBH the Target: Stroke Honor Roll award.

In order to qualify for this award each hospital has to meet separate measures that were developed to reduce the time between the “patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with the clot-buster tissue plasminogen activator, or Atleplase, the only

drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat ischemic stroke.”

The risk of ischemic strokes, which occur when the arteries to your brain are narrowed or blocked and thus you experience severely reduced blood flow, is about double in current smokers than in nonsmokers after adjustments for other risk factors.

“We are pleased to recognize South Florida Baptist Hospital for their commitment to stroke care,” Lee H. Schwamm, M.D., national chairperson of the Quality Oversight Committee and Executive Vice Chair of Neurology, Director of Acute Stroke Services, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, said. “Research has shown that hospitals adhering to clinical measures through the Get With The Guidelines quality improvement initiative can often see fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates.”

Fun Fest Event Florida’s Most Rea d 50+

LifestylesAf

Publication Sinc e 1989

FREE

ter50.com

The Greate st Comes to To Showman wn

Hugh Jackman

The Man. The Music.

The Show.

CBD: What’s

the Buzz?

Nat ion al Aw ard -Wi

nni ng Ma gaz ine

July 25, 2019 • 9 AM - 1 PM The Strawberry Festival Grounds The Arthur Boring Civic Center 2406 West Reynolds St., Plant City, FL 33583

FREE Goodies • Prizes • Bingo FREE Health Screenings & More!

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Get out of the heat, enjoy some fun!

Sponsored By:

For Exhibitor Information, Call 813-653-1988 A Lifestyles After 50 Event

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FOCUS ON FITNESS

|

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

15

ANGELA FULGIERI

IT’S HIP TO STRENGTHEN YOUR HIPS Strong hip muscles help the rest of your body function at its best.

I

f you are an athlete, you probably understand the importance of including hip strengthening exercises in your routine.

Mobility, flexibility and stability in the hips is crucial to athletic performance, no matter what the sport.

What about the rest of the population? Many of us nonathletes spend the majority of our days seated at desks, driving, or in classrooms, and that can lead to tight hip flexors.

The primary function of the hip is to support the weight of the body. The muscles of our hips provide stability and balance when we walk, run, or perform any activity in which

only one foot is on the ground.

They also allow the leg to abduct (move away from the midline of the body) and adduct (move towards the midline of the body).

Strong hip muscles support the pelvis and core and maintain alignment in the legs.

Imagine a chain. If the hip muscles or muscles surrounding the hip are weak, the knee will move out of alignment and will, in turn, affect the ankle as well as the foot.

Many of us don’t realize that there is weakness in the hip until we feel pain, usually through the leg. Some common injuries related to weak hips are knee pain, IT band syndrome, back

pain, shin splints and plantar fasciitis. Hip pain is also pretty common. If you have pain in the hip, it is usually caused by problems with the muscles, ligaments or tendons that surround the hip joint. Hip pain can also be caused by diseases, such as arthritis, or injury, such as hip fracture, which is more common in women, especially those with osteoporosis.

It’s important to see a doctor if you already have pain. If you don’t, now is a great time to add exercises to your routine that focus on injury prevention.

Our abdominal muscles, hips and glutes all work very closely together. They make up our core.

" In the Time Of Disaster, We React Faster" Storm Damage 24/7 Emergency Services

Angela Fulgieri is the Wellness Experience Director at the Plant City YMCA. Contact her at observerfitness@gmail.com.

PLANT CITY FARM AND FLEA MARKET

www.advantage-rc.com

Highway 39 North at Sam Allen Road—1 mi. N. of I-4 Exit 21

WEDNESDAY FLEA MARKET OVER 40 ACRES . . . MORE THAN 500 VENDORS

OP EN

PM 7A M T O 1 708 W. SAM ALLEN RD. 1 MILE NORTH OF I-4 EXIT 21

LIKE KMART WITHOUT A ROOF!

287696-1

813 531-8443

a moment and then lower back down towards the floor. You could advance the movement by doing one-legged bridges. Walking lunges help with strength and balance and a great lateral exercise is lateral walking with a mini-band to help with glute strength and knee stability.

More advanced exercises would include plyometrics and weighted exercises.

OMG IT’S WEDNESDAY!

CBC1260170 / MRSR1611

Water Damage Restoration Fire and Smoke Damage Mold Remediation

The best way to prevent injury is to train all of these muscles with functional movements that mimic the way we move every day. In real life, we bend, squat to pick things up, and move laterally. Therefore, functional exercise should include, squats, lunges, and lateral movements.

Bridges are a good beginner exercise that require no equipment, and strengthen the hips, glutes, abdominals and lower back.

To do this, simply lie down on your back with knees bent, arms down at your sides, and feet close to your butt. Squeeze the glutes and lift your hips up to the ceiling. Hold this position for

PLENTY OF FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

WWW.PLANTCITYMARKET.COM

16

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

COPS CORNER

This week on Cops Corner, Plant City Police investigated firework mischief, driving with a suspended license, stolen diesel fuel, a stolen pink bike and more.

JULY 5 WARRANTED ARREST Waller St./ West Dr. King Boulevard Warrant arrest and drug possession: A woman was found to have an outstanding Felony VOP warrant out of Hillsborough County. She was also charged with possession of marijuana, heroin, paraphernalia, alteration of a firearm’s serial number and attaching tag not assigned. She was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

JULY 6 THE FOURTH CONTINUES 1100 block of North Warren Street Criminal mischief: This complainant told officers that, during the evening hours of July 5, an unknown suspect placed a firecracker behind the vehicle gas door that damaged the vehicle’s side and gas cap. Officers discovered the neighbor’s vehicle had the same damage.

BIKE SWIPER 1500 block of Jenkins Street Burglary/Petit theft: This complainant told officers that, during the night of July 5, someone entered their unlocked shed and removed a pink 26inch bike and an unknown brand blower. They only wanted the incident reported and signed a waiver.

STAY IN YOUR LANE 1200 block of Goldfinch Drive Possession of drugs and DUI arrest: PCPD received a call regarding a vehicle swerving all over the roadway. When they located the car, a 22-year-old man was arrested for DUI and possession of marijuana and paraphernalia. The passenger in the vehicle was found with xanax pills and was also arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail for booking.

JULY 7 HITCHED ESCAPE 900 block of Loganderry Lane Trailer theft: This complainant told officers that, during the evening of July 6, someone took a six-foot by 16-foot metal lawn trailer from the parking area.

RULES OF THE ROAD Park Road/ South Frontage Road DWLSR arrest from a crash: A man was arrested for Driving While License Suspended or Revoked after being involved in a vehicle crash at the scene. He was transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

CAPPING THE CRUISER 1900 block of East Alsobrook Street Shooting into an occupied conveyance: Officers responded to the above listed location in reference to gunshots being fired into a vehicle.

JULY 8 CRAFTY CRAIGSLIST 2100 block of Spooner Drive Fraud: This victim reported to police that someone tried to sell his vehicle without his permission.

JULY 9 WALMART WOES 2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway Retail theft arrest: A woman was found to have stolen more than $300 worth of miscellaneous items from Walmart. She was arrested for the felony offense and transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

JULY 11 SUCKED DRY 200 block of South County Line Road Theft: This complainant reported to officers that, during the night of July 10, an unknown suspect entered the property and removed 150 gallons of diesel fuel from company vehicles.

HIDE-AND-GO-SEEK 900 block of W. Risk St. Resist/flee to elude: Officers performed a traffic stop at the above location and a man fled from the vehicle.

After searching the area PCPD found the suspect in a wooded area where he was hiding under a fallen tree.

He was placed under arrest for resist/fleeing to elude and was transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

BRAZEN OFFENSE 1800 block of James L. Redman Parkway Grand theft: A suspect went behind the counter of the store at the above listed location and stole $925 in cash.

LOVE STINKS 900 block of East Alsobrook Street Criminal mischief: The girlfriend of this victim damaged his 2002 black Chevy TrailBlaz-

er after a verbal altercation got out of hand. He decided not to prosecute and signed a waiver closing the case.

JULY 18, 2019

Gianni Maldonado isn’t afraid to take on — and beat — older wrestlers.

See Page 19

SPORTS

THEY’VE GOT SPIRIT, YES THEY DO

Quick Hits

Fifty young cheerleaders from the Plant City area learned from Plant City High School’s varsity and junior varsity squads this week.

AREA PARKS HOSTING TOURNEYS This weekend will be lighter on sports tournaments than usual. The Tampa Bay Flag Football Association will host a tournament for high school girls at Ellis-Methvin Park from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 20 and 21.

Next weekend is a bit more crowded.

Global Sports Alliance Baseball’s Summer Sizzler tournament will use multiple fields at the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex, Mike Sansone Park, Snowden Park, EllisMethvin Park and the MLK Complex from July 27 through 28. The tourney action has start times from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days.

The Plant City Dolphins are hosting a summer jamboree on July 27, with games starting from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Dolphins will host 50 teams from 10 programs around Hillsborough, Polk and Pasco counties. Each team is guaranteed two 30-minute games.

Admission for the Dolphins’ jamboree, which will take place at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, is $5 for anyone age 15 and up and $1 for kids 14 and under.

Justin Kline

The Plant City Raiders hosted a two-day cheer camp this Tuesday and Wednesday in the high school’s gymnasium.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

C

heerleaders are always supposed to be in good spirits, but getting hyped got easier than ever for the Plant City High School team this summer.

This year’s PCHS cheer camp, the eighth annual event, was what Raiders head coach Karen Snapp called its biggest ever. Fifty kids attended this year’s twoday camp in the PCHS gymnasium — previously, by Snapp’s

estimate, the highest-ever total was 35. Though there were more campers than ever before, the Raiders were ready on Tuesday and Wednesday. Members from both PCHS cheer teams coached up the campers, who were between the ages of 4 and 13, with everything they’ll need to know to cheer at a high school level.

“I like to see (the PCHS cheerleaders) work,” Snapp said. “It puts a lot of the responsibility

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND? CREST FOOTBALL HIRES NEW COACH The Strawberry Crest Chargers didn’t have to wait very long to find out who their new head football coach will be.

Phillip Prior will take the reins in the 2019 season. It’s the second head coaching position for Prior, who last led Poinciana High School in the 2018 season. Under Prior, the Eagles finished with a 2-8 record but won back-to-back games for the first time in five seasons.

Prior, a Tampa native, has also been an assistant coach at Wharton, Chiles and Leon high schools.

on my girls and that’s awesome because they always step up and do it.”

Younger campers learned simple chants, jumps and routines and got to shake their pom-poms loudly and proudly. Older campers learned more complex routines and some stunts. Campers also got to make arts and crafts.

For the PCHS cheerleaders themselves, the annual camp is one of the highlights of every summer.

“I just love little kids and being able to work with them,” Kaily Yacinich, a camp coach of four years, said. “Especially the youngest girls. They don’t have much attention span but I love playing with them and helping them learn new cheer skills. And they love to do jumps and forward rolls and all that stuff… this is so much fun for me.”

SEE PAGE 18

JUSTIN KLINE

PARENTS, ENJOY THE GOOD TIMES WHILE YOU CAN

I

was at Mike Sansone Park on Saturday, catching some baseball action with camera in hand, when I joined a conversation with a couple of parents reminiscing about their own kids’ Little League experiences.

Those kids are now around 18 years old and very much out of Plant City Little League, but being at the ballpark that day made 2013 “seem like it was just yesterday.” I don’t have any kids of my own, but I’ve been here for about that much time and I can say I totally get that feeling.

A lot of kids who graduated high school this year were in Little

League and other youth sports programs around here back when I first started, so I’ve seen them grow and change a lot in the five-plus years I’ve been here (which will be six in September). A lot of these kids have grown from being carefree, happygo-lucky pre-teens eager to tell me about their “ding-dong-ditch” skills to become great athletes and people ready to tackle a new chapter of life.

It’s always nice to see athletes I’ve covered pop up around town and say hello, and to hear about them doing well in life is even better.

SEE PAGE 18

18

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

PCHS CHEER CAMP RETURNS FOR 2019

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

JUSTIN KLINE

MAKE MEMORIES NOW, THANK YOURSELF LATER

contiuned from page 17

The old saying, “they grow up so fast,” is pretty legit.

Justin Kline

Mollie Badenhorst, Kaily Yacinich, Alex Fryer and Grace Gainer are senior coaches.

JUSTIN KLINE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

Some Raiders, like Grace Gainer, are fairly new to the camps but had a great time coaching the kids.

“It’s been a really cool experience. It’s team bonding and growing in the community,” Gainer said. “It’s really nice to see all these little girls come in with a big smile, get really close with you and warm up with you… it’s been an awesome experience and I’d honestly love to do it again if Snapp would have me come out as a super senior.”

Others, like seniors Mollie Badenhorst and Alex Fryer, went from attending the camps when they were younger to becoming a part of the PCHS team and finding themselves coaching the kids in the summer.

“It’s weird because I remember when I was young and I was like, ‘These girls are insane and old and really cool,” Badenhorst said. “I’m now one of those girls. And I still see myself as that little girl. I see college cheerleaders the same way they see us. It’s cool to see that perspective change.”

Those of you that do have kids who aren’t getting ready to leave high school anytime soon might not want to blink.

Six years really can go by quickly, even if so many things change in that time. Take those photos and videos. Hang on to those trophies and medals. Enjoy the pizza parties and ice cream trips and other fun moments off the field.

The kids might not wonder why that’s all so important now. Everyone’s got that period of teenage rebellion where you thought stuff like that was lame. When they’re a little older, they’ll probably get back into doing that stuff with their friends or even their own kids. I’m 28 and I’ll still go to just about any party where I can get a slice, or even a cone I’ll suffer for eating later.

But once the nest is empty, you lose those moments and it’s better to have something to hang onto than to wish you had more fun with your kids.

About six years from now, my niece and nephew will be teenagers. There’s a pretty good chance they’ll both be pretty deep into their own athletic careers, as both love to play sports, so I’ll probably catch myself saying I miss the good old days of playing soccer in the back yard and setting them up with passes to score goals on their dad.

Simpler times for everyone, for sure.

Savor these moments while you can now. Give yourself something to be happy about later.

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

Email: jkline@ plantcityobserver. com.

Combine & Save.

Good things happen when you combine your home and auto insurance with State Farm . Like saving an average of $894.* Plus, you’ll have a good neighbor like me to help life go right.

CALL ME TODAY. ®

*Average annual household savings based on 2016 national survey of new policyholders who reported savings by switching to State Farm.

Jimmy Fisher, Agent 6920 E Fowler Ave On Fowler Ave near I-75 Tampa, FL 33617 Bus: 813-989-2037 jimmy.fisher.caos@statefarm.com

1606205

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas, Dallas, TX State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm Florida Insurance Company, Winter Haven, FL State Farm Lloyds, Richardson, TX

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

ALL-STAR ACTION WRAPS UP IN PLANT CITY

You just took on a bunch of high schoolers and came out on top. What was that experience like for you?

It was a good experience. It helps me out when I go against my age level because it’ll be a lot easier.

Justin Kline

SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The last three weeks have been eventful for Mike Sansone Park, which hosted the Little League District 4 All-Star tournament’s round of sectionals during that time.

Baseball and softball teams from around Tampa Bay and central Florida came to Plant City to compete and earn the right to keep going for a shot at a state championship title. Of the seven local teams that entered sectionals competition back in late June, just one — the 12-year-olds of the Majors Baseball All-Stars — was able to survive the gauntlet and advance to the next round.

The Majors boys will start the next round of play at Coral Springs American Little League tomorrow night.

How did you feel going into that tournament? Confident, excited, nervous?

Confident. I’m always confident. It gives me a better sense to do well.

What fuels your confidence?

MAJORS BASEBALL ROSTER: Brian Baxter Jacob Carbaugh Preston Cothren Cooper Cowen Reed Goodson Brenham Hay Devonte Howard Paul Overstreet Waylon Rogers Logan Teeden Brisen Tweedy Dailyn Wood

19

I want to do good so I can get noticed.

This (Charger Wrestling Club) is really good. I want to get noticed and get my name out there so I can go to college.

What’s your dream school?

Florida. They don’t have a scholarship for wrestling, though.

Why go to a school with only a clublevel team over something like Penn State or Iowa that’s official?

I just always wanted to go to Florida.

I played football before I started to wrestle. Florida has a good football team and that was always my favorite.

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

What got you into wrestling?

My friend from football, he tried out wrestling.

How long ago was that?

I was in fifth grade.

What made you stick with the sport?

I was good at it.

Which is your favorite wrestling style?

Folkstyle. It’s the easiest for me.

When did you get comfortable wrestling competitively?

One or two tournaments after I got into it. I decided that I can do this.

In last weekend’s tournament, when did you realize you might go undefeated?

I just always have it in my head to go undefeated no matter what. “This guy, he could be in college right now but I could beat him.” That’s always my mindset.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Gianni Maldonado Gianni Maldonado says he’s never not confident in himself before a wrestling match. He speaks with surprising conviction for an incoming eighthgrader, but it’s not hard to see why: his hard work on and off the wrestling mat has made him into a grappler to keep an eye on, especially after going undefeated in folkstyle and freestyle competition against high schoolers in a Brandon tournament for area clubs.

The Charger Wrestling Club member went 3-0 in each division, wrestling at 130 pounds, and will soon head to New Jersey for the NUWAY Summer Nationals tournament.

JUSTIN KLINE

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

SPONSORED BY SPORT CLIPS

Plant City Little League’s Majors Baseball team has moved on to the next playoff round.

Reed Goodson makes contact with a pitch on July 13.

|

20

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

289704-1

We asked: What’s your go-to hurricane snack?

“Beef jerky.”

“Beef jerky.”

— Scott Bergman, 53

— Clint Cline, 68

“Clif bars. White chocolate macadamia, that’s my favorite.” — Edwin Arriaga, 21

“Chocolate. Any kind of dark “The strawberry Pop-Tarts.”

— Hailey Nipper, 15 chocolate.”

— Lily Ambler, 19

community

PlantCityObserver.com

Abigail Kansas Mullan Haynes

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

Billy W. Heard Sr.

Jimmy Wayne community Davis

Nancy V. Crowe

|

Charlotte Ann Mooney

we’re dedicated to helping families create a our community unique and with personal, compassionate care since 1896.V. Crowe, Nancy 83, meaningful passed memorial that truly celebrates the life it represents.

As your Dignity Memorial professionals, WE’R E PR OU D TO SERVE

is all about.

Billy W. Heard Sr., 72, of Plant City, entered into eternal rest on away on Wednesday, July 10, Jimmy Wayne Davis, 74 of Charlotte Ann Mooney, 78 > 100% Service Guarantee July 13, 2019.

2019.> National Plan Transferability Lakeland, passed away on July passed away July 12, 2019. > Theon Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance He was a veteran of the United She was born Feb. 11, 1936 7, 2019.

Memorial services will be SatStates Army. in Saltville, Virginia.

He was born on July 13, 1944 urday, July 20, 2019, at 11:00 we’reArkansas. dedicated to helping familiesFond creatememories a W E ’ RE PRO TO SERVE our Expressions ofUDcondolence atcommunity and expresin Three Way, a.m. at First Baptist Church of unique and meaningful memorial that of truly with personal, compassionate care since He 1896.

HopewellFuneral.com. sions sympathy may be was the owner of JWD Dover. The family will receive Proudly celebrates the life it supporting represents. the Plant City Strawberry Festival.

As your Dignity Memorial professionals, shared at www.WellsMemorial.

Produce and was an Army friends one hour prior to the > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability com. veteran. service. > The Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance Expressions of Compassion sympathy may Online condolences may be be shared at www.WellsMemoleft for the family at haught.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM rial.com. care.

WELLSMEMORIAL.COM ®

R

®

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Alvaro DiazVazquez Alvaro Diaz-Vazquez, 84, of Brandon, born on Feb. 19, 1935 in Toa Alta, Puerto Rico, entered into eternal rest on July 11, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

R Taking care of Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. each other is what

Ruth W. Maggard

community

Taking care of each other is what

Margaret Jean Wlodarski PlanT CiTy

Wells MeMorial & event Center

is all about.

community

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Margaret Jean Wlodarski, 91, of

21

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

OBITUARIES

Abigail Kansas Mullan Haynes, 38, of Tampa, born on Nov. 30, 1980, entered into eternal rest on July 15, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Taking care of is all about. each other is what

is all about.

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Plant City, passed away on July Ruth W. Maggard, 95, of Plant Kellie J. Gregg 10, 2019.

City, entered into eternal rest on M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1 10/27/15 10:42 AM we’re dedicated to helping families create a WE ’ RE P RO UD TO S E RV E our community Survivors include son, Richard July 12, 2019.

Kellie J. Gregg, 61, of Seffner, unique and meaningful withWlodarski. personal, compassionate care since 1896. away Luz Eneida Rivera Wells & event Center (Janice) Expressions of condolence at MeMorial passed on Thursday, Julymemorial that truly As your Dignity Memorialinprofessionals, PlanT CiTy we’re dedicated to helping create a was W E ’ RE PRO U D TO SERVE our community Margaret preceded HopewellFuneral.com.

4, 2019. celebrates the life it represents.

Luz Eneida Rivera, passed away families uniqueJuly and meaningful thatby truly with personal, compassionate care since > 100% Service GuaranteeKellie > National death her husband, Robert was bornPlan MayTransferability 10, 1958 on1896.

Wednesday, 3, 2019. memorial 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com the13, life 1947 it represents.

As your Dignity Memorial professionals,She wascelebrates > ThePennsylvania.

Compassion Helpline® in Ellwood City, born Nov. in Wlodarski. > Bereavement Travel Assistance > 100% Service Guarantee > National will be held privately.

Fond memories and expresNaguabo, PuertoPlan Rico.TransferabilityServices M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1 10/27/15 10:42 AM The Compassion > Bereavement Travel Assistance Online condolences may be sions of sympathy may be A Funeral>Mass was held Helpline® HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM left for the family atProudly www.haught. at City www.WellsMemorial. on July 15, 2019 in Lakeland, supportingshared the Plant Strawberry Festival. care. com.

Florida.

Condolences may be offered Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival.

Joe Sheppard at www.wellsmemorial.com.

Joe Sheppard, 84, of Plant City, born on Nov. 20, 1935 in Honea HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Path, SC, entered into eternal rest on July 11, 2019.

WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Expressions of condolence at Wells MeMorial & event Center www.HopewellFuneral.com. ®

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Tina Marie Loyd

Tina Marie Loyd, 56, of Plant City, born on Nov. 12, 1962, entered into eternal rest on July 12, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Joel M. Adams Joel M. Adams, 52, of Plant City, born on September 28, 1966, entered into eternal rest on July 13, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

®

R

R

PlanT CiTy

Florist

Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy

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

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

10/27/15 10:42 AM

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

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

Historic Downtown 287464-1

FAMILY. COMMUNITY. COMPASSION. VALUE. FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1971 HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

10/27/1

22

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, JULY 18

YOUR CALENDAR

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY,JULY 18, 2019

PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS

7:30 to 9 a.m. Plant City Toastmasters is held every Thursday.

Guests are always welcome to come join the free meeting at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St.

SHUFFLEBOARD CLUB

10:30 a.m. Come on out to the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St., each Thursday to find out more about a new Shuffleboard Club. Topics being discussed are days of the week, times, skill levels and anything else you may want to know. The club is hosted by Anita Balch and she can be contacted at 808-722-5821 for more information.

YOUR HOSPITAL STAY AND POSTPARTUM ISSUES CLASS

6 to 8 p.m. South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St., is hosting a Your Hospital Stay and Postpartum Issues class at ICU Conference Room, 2-South. This class covers hospital policies regarding hospital stay, emotional changes and adjusting to the new parent role. Participants may bring one guest to classes. Please bring a notepad to take notes. Snacks will be provided. Registration is free, but required. Call 1-855269-4777 for more information.

BLUEGRASS NIGHT

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., is hosting its monthly Bluegrass Night. This month features Swinging Bridge. Cost is $10 and tickets are available on Eventbrite and in-house.

Swinging Bridge members are five talented gentlemen from the Venice area of Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. The group can be found at the monthly Southwest Florida Bluegrass Association Jam/Fests and they have become a fixture at many bluegrass festivals in Florida.

ZEN YOUR SPACE YOGA

7 p.m. Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., is hosting an energetic flow style yoga class suited for all levels. Coleen’s passion for Vinyasa Flow style comes from the “alive yet

BEST BET SATURDAY, JULY 20 BUCKY AND GIGI

3 p.m. Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., is hosting the show: To Boldly Go Where No Clown Has Gone Before. This summer, Commander GiGi kicks off a comedic race to space with her cosmic clown and canine space cadets. Expect fun with juggernaut juggling, mystifying magic, and celestial comedy. Follow along as Private Bucky and Astrodog Zeus show off their circus skills and deathdefying dog tricks, in an attempt to prove they have what it takes to boldly go where no clown (or canine) has gone before. All are welcome. relaxed” feeling you will have by the time you finish class. This class will start with a slow warm up, followed by movement and then wind back down to floor to end with a Nidra meditation.

Free to attend. Please bring your own mat and towel.

FRIDAY, JULY 19 DUPLICATE BRIDGE

1 p.m. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 302 Carey St., is now hosting a weekly Duplicate Bridge game, the most widely used variation of contract bridge in club and tournament play. Contact Walt Arnold at 813-752-1602 for more information.

MOVIE FRIDAY: TREASURE PLANET

3 p.m. Families are invited to an afternoon movie showing of Treasure Planet at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Library. Rated PG. All are welcome.

FROM ASHES

6:33 to 8:33 p.m. Join Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., in the music loft for a night of worship led by From Ashes. A love offering will be collected.

PCE PRESENTS: CURTAINS

8 p.m. Plant City Entertainment, Inc. Community Theater in conjunction with Theatrical Rights Worldwide and with the Support of the Arts Council of Hillsborough County and the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to present “Curtains,” a musical comedy from the creators of “Cabaret” and “Chicago.” Show runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday July 19, 20, 21*, 26, 27, 28* All evening performances at 8 p.m., *Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Go to pceshows.com for more information and online ticket sales. Remaining tickets will be sold at the door prior to each performance.

SATURDAY, JULY 20 PC AREA DEMOCRATIC CLUB INAUGURAL BREAKFAST

8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join the Plant City Area Democratic Club for its inaugural breakfast at Buddy Freddy’s, 1101 Goldfinch Drive. Buffet tickets are $25. Call 813-494-8637 or email plantcityareadems@ gmail.com for tickets. The event will feature special guest speaker the honorable Andrew Warren, state attorney 13th judicial district. Warren will discuss and answer questions about what is happening with Amendment 4 and criminal justice reforms in the county.

“GREASE” SOCK HOP

5 to 9 p.m. Put on your dancing shoes, get your tickets now for a night of fun as we bring back the 1950’s in a “Grease” themed evening. The sock hop is at 304 Acacia Drive. There will be a dance off, costume contest and food to make it a great family night. For more information contact Patricia Rose 813-3688453, Aimee Pippin 813-7635168 or Angela Jones 813-7633138 This is a “fun-raiser,” so tickets are $10, which includes a hot dog or hamburger, fries and a drink.

PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Square MHP, 4401 Promenade Blvd. The cost is $6 and will include slow dances, waltzes, line dances, cha-cha and more.

LIP SYNC BATTLE

7 to 10 p.m. Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., is offering a free to attend Classic Rock themed Lip Sync Battle. Be the star of the show or cheer on your friends, either way, it will be a Krazy Good Time. There will be judges, three grand prizes, trivia and, of course, LIP SYNC. To sign up: message Krazy Kup on Facebook or Instagram with name and number of people in your group (limit three people per group.

The participation fee is $5 per

person and is due on the night of the show, July 20. The deadline to sign up to participate is July 19. Limit 10 performances, so sign up soon.

and some soft pats on the head.

Join Bonnie on the couch in the children’s section and read to her some of your favorite stories.

MONDAY, JULY 22

THURSDAY, JULY 25

PLANT CITY DAYBREAK ROTARY CLUB

HONORING THE MOON LANDING

7 to 8 a.m. The Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club holds a meeting every Monday in the conference room next to the cafeteria at South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St. Guests are welcome to come and enjoy a free breakfast.

CRAFTERNOON: BEEPS AND BEATS WITH LITTLEBITS SYNTHS

4 p.m. Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., is holding a Crafternoon event. Learn how synthesizers work and build real working synths with KORG LittleBits Synth kits. Limited to first 20 students over the age of 8.

TUESDAY, JULY 23 PLANT CITY LIONS CLUB 12 to 1 p.m. The Plant City Lions Club holds a meeting every Tuesday at Buddy Freddy’s, 1101 Goldfinch Drive. For more information on membership call 813-924-3829.

CESAR DOMINO: COMEDY MAGIC SHOW

3 p.m. Come on out to Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., to see a comedy magic show for all ages. Cesar Domino is offering a dynamic show full of humor and participation by kids – and adults – who get to perform magic tricks with Cesar!

6 p.m. Harold Falls is giving away commemorative coins at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., to local youth in honor of the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. He will also have a display set up at the library detailing the history of the event filled with information regarding the landing and other unique commemorative items. He will give away 70 sets of coins to children up to age 18 and will also have a separate special giveaway for some of his more unique coins.

RETRO MOVIE NIGHT: THE LION KING (1994)

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Kick back, relax and head back in time to your favorite classic movies with the monthly Retro Movie Night at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. This month will feature Disney’s The Lion King. Watch their fun themes, sweet movie treats and can’tmiss showings every fourth Thursday.

BLUE IN THE LIBRARY WITH SUNCOAST BLUES SOCIETY

7 p.m. Did you know Florida has a long blues tradition? There are many artists who have roots in Florida. Join Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., for a music filled night presented by the Suncoast Blues Society.

Performance by Walker Smith.

Free concert.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24 READ WITH BONNIE THE THERAPY DOG

4 to 5 p.m. Bonnie the Therapy Dog comes to Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., every week for children to have the opportunity to share a book

There’s still time...

PLANT CITY FAMILY YMCA 1507 YMCA Pl., Plant City | 813.757.6677 | tampaymca.org

tampaymca.org/LetsCamp

Universal Crossword PlantCityObserver.comEdited

by David Steinberg July 17, 2019

I LOVE PLANT CITY

7/17

Stress Test by John Guzzetta

ACROSS 1 Drifts, as a scent 6 Unwelcome inbox filler 10 Window molding 14 Greek assembly place 15 RC drink 16 (I’m not a cowardly lion!)

17 Remember past November races?

20 Sinclair who wrote “The Jungle” 21 Albuquerque Isotopes’ baseball league 22 Approves 24 Jot down minimum temperatures?

30 Bob Marley genre 33 Opposite of WNW 34 Stud horse, to many foals 35 Saint for whom the Russian alphabet is named 36 Ship’s bell sound 38 Superman foe Luthor 39 Appease Xbox users?

42 Fraternity T 43 Very overweight 44 Mountain ridge (EATER anagram) 46 WNBA game airer 48 Survived in musical chairs 49 “Just be patient”

50 Leave lab animals in a maze?

53 Chemical suffix with ox54 “Huh?!”

55 ___ candle (firework) 58 Put bosses’ pictures in a slideshow?

65 Dutch guilder’s replacement 66 Superman partner Lane 67 Actress ___ Michelle Gellar 68 Jack who played Sgt. Friday 69 Inscribe into metal 70 “Go ahead, ask” DOWN

FORECAST THURSDAY, JULY 18 High: 91 Low: 75 Chance of rain: 50%

FRIDAY, JULY 19 High: 91 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 40%

|

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, July 18

6:43a

8:25p

Friday, July 19

6:43a

8:25p

Saturday, July 20

6:44a

8:24p

Sunday, July 21

6:45a

8:24p

Monday, July 22

6:45a

8:23p

Tuesday, July 23

6:46a

8:23p

Wednesday, July 24

6:46a

8:23p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, JULY 20 High: 89 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 50%

SUNDAY, JULY 21 High: 89 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 50%

BLUEBERRIES Shipping point: Central Florida $13-$16

1 Major conflict 2 Information ___ 3 Market research panels 4 Pitfall 5 Shaker contents 6 Part of an act 7 Ilhan Omar or Kamala Harris, briefly 8 Tankard contents 9 ’90s dance craze 10 Legal drama events 11 Pooh pal in a blue shirt 12 “Moonraker” author Fleming 13 ___ Butterworth’s 18 Oral history 19 Tiny bit 22 Mordor warrior 23 Jingling pocket item 25 Piano relative 26 Missouri tribe 27 Plant concerning to environmentalists?

28 Took away by force 29 Explicit song subject, perhaps 31 Word before “rummy” or “fizz” 32 Too 36 Translucent 37 FBI guy 40 Part of a West Point course?

41 Historical period 42 Broadcaster Koppel 45 Barnyard mama 47 Dissatisfied worker’s desire 49 “The Heat ___” (Glenn Frey song) 51 Baseball scoreboard letters 52 Wreck, as a hotel room 56 Spinnaker supporter 57 Food thickener 58 Hymnal-holding seat 59 Regret 60 Sphere 61 Tyke 62 It picks things up when it’s hot 63 Smash (into) 64 ___/her pronouns

23

Aug. 1 New

Aug. 15 Full

Aug. 5 First

July 27 Last

RAINFALL Monday, July 8

0.00

Tuesday, July 9 0.98 Wednesday, July 10

0.03

Thursday, July 11 0.06 Friday, July 12

0.17

Saturday, July 13 0.05 Sunday, July 14

0.00

YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2019 11.99 in.

2019 2.62 in.

2018 16.45 in.

2018 2.05 in.

WEATHER

ACROSS 12 “Moonraker” 48 Survived 41 Historical 1 Drifts, as author in musical period a scent Fleming chairs 42 Broadcaster 6 Unwelcome 13 ___ Butter49 “Just be Koppel filler submissionspatient” worth’s 45 Barnyard Sendinbox your photo to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@PlantCityObserver.com 10 Window 18 Oral 50 Leave lab mama or hashtag #iloveplantcity onanimals Instagram molding historyto feature. 47 Dissatisfied infor @igersplantcity 14 Greek 19 Tiny bit a maze? worker’s assembly 22 Mordor 53 Chemical desire place warrior suffix with ox49 “The Heat 15 RC drink 23 Jingling 54 “Huh?!” ___” (Glenn 16 (I’m not a pocket item 55 ___ candle Frey song) cowardly lion!)

25 Piano relative (firework) 51 Baseball 17 Remember 26 Missouri tribe 58 Put bosses’ scoreboard past 27 Plant pictures in a letters November concerning slideshow?

52 Wreck, as a races? to environ65 Dutch hotel room 20 Sinclair who mentalists? guilder’s 56 Spinnaker wrote “The 28 Took away replacement supporter Jungle” by force 66 Superman 57 Food 21 Albuquerque 29 Explicit song partner Lane thickener Isotopes’ subject, 67 Actress ___ 58 Hymnalbaseball perhaps Michelle holding seat league 31 Word before Gellar 59 Regret 22 Approves “rummy” 68 Jack who 60 Sphere 24 Jot down or “fizz” played Sgt. 61 Tyke minimum 32 Too Friday 62 It picks tempera36 Translucent 69 Inscribe into things up tures?

37 FBI guy metal when it’s hot 30 Bob Marley 40 Part of a 70 “Go ahead, 63 Smash (into) genre West Point ask” 64 ___/her 33 Opposite course?

DOWN pronouns of WNW 1 Major 34 Stud horse, conflict PREVIOUS PUZZLE ANSWER to many foals 2 Information Marcus Couch recently took this beautiful photo of the sun’s rays peeking out over the clouds as 35 Saint for ___ it rose July 8. whom the 3 Market Russian research us on social media: @PCObserver on Instgram, ON L I N E Follow alphabet panels @PlantObserver on Twitter and Plant City Observer is named Pitfall on4Facebook.

36 Ship’s bell 5 Shaker sound contents 38 Superman 6 Part of an act foe Luthor 7 Ilhan Omar 39 Appease or Kamala Xbox users?

Harris, briefly 42 Fraternity T 8 Tankard 43 Very contents overweight 9 ’90s dance 44 Mountain craze ridge (EATER 10 Legal drama anagram) events 7/16 © 2019 Andrews McMeel Universal 46 WNBA game 11 Pooh pal in www.upuzzles.com airer a blue shirt

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

24

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

When you’re pregnant, there are so many questions.

WHERE TO HAVE YOUR BABY shouldn’t be one of them.

Which car seat? What stroller? And oh, the discussions

extraordinary level of care during labor and delivery,

about the name. With so many questions surrounding

in a comfortable, spacious room. If you’re expecting,

a new baby, we want to give you one definitive and

or thinking about having a baby, come in and see for

easy answer. The hospital you choose. At BayCare’s

yourself. Take a tour of South Florida Baptist Hospital

South Florida Baptist Hospital, we have exceptional

and sign up for one of our free prenatal classes.

doctors and nurses to give you and your new baby an

Visit SouthFloridaBaptistMaternity.org to register.

OUR MATERNITY CENTERS:

Mease Countryside Hospital • Morton Plant Hospital • St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Hospital-North St. Joseph’s Hospital-South • South Florida Baptist Hospital • Winter Haven Women’s Hospital SOUTHFLORIDABAPTISTMATERNITY.ORG 18-589030-1118