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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
PANDEMIC CONTINUES
The number of COVID-19 cases continues to soar in Hillsborough County and throughout the state.
SECOND LOCATION OF
SEE PAGE 5
STARBUCKS NOW OPEN BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
The new location of Starbucks, which is on James L. Redman, is now officially open.
Caffeine addicts now have another coffee shop to start their day thanks to the opening of the new Starbucks at 2400 James L. Redman Parkway. The Starbucks location on Thonotosassa Road has long been a traffic stop in the community. The line frequently wraps out to the main road and the parking lot is always full. Due to its popularity the company decided last summer to expand to a second location in town. The site features a 2,500-square foot building on the site of the former Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan/Center State Bank. There are more than 30 parking spots and an extensive drive-thru window so the line can wrap with ease should customers stack up. Over the past few months, the building sprung to life and posts went
up all over social media speculating when the new branch of the chain would finally open. The Plant City Economic Development Corporation officials announced the opening on July 20, though the business was up and running the prior weekend. Though it was smooth sailing at first, the business temporarily closed again early this week. However, as of Wednesday, it was once again up and rolling with cars zooming through the drive-thru. The store is practicing the same public safety guidelines as all of its other locations. It is utilizing enhanced cleaning measures and is requiring customers to wear facial coverings when visiting the store and asks them to social distance. The new location is looking for employees and you can find out more at starbucks. com/careers.
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
NEWS BRIEFS
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YMCA hosting blood drives tomorrow The Plant City Family YMCA and others in the greater Tampa Bay area are hosting blood drives from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday as a team effort with OneBlood. All who wish to donate must first make an appointment at oneblood.org/ymca or by calling 1-888-936-6283. Donors in Plant City will also get a free COVID-19 antibody test, a free tote bag and a free wellness checkup that includes blood pressure, pulse, temperature, iron count and cholesterol checks. The Plant City Family YMCA is located at 1507 YMCA Place.
Local McDonald’s restaurants hosting fundraiser
RMHC lost as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which McDonald’s said “has forced many RMHC houses to close their doors to new patients, their families and many volunteers. Additionally, planned fundraisers had to be cancelled and increased costs for meals, previously donated by volunteers, have created operational budgets to skyrocket.” “McDonald’s customers have always been critical in raising funds for families staying at local Ronald McDonald Houses while their children receive life-saving medical treatment,” Lisa Suprenand, Executive Director for the RMHC Tampa Bay chapter, said in a press release. “The pandemic hasn’t slowed childhood illness, it has made it more complex.” The fundraiser is ongoing through August 16.
Plant City to celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday Witches, wizards and Muggles alike are welcome to celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday next week with downtown businesses and Plant City Main Street. The Main Street team will set up at Platform 9 3/4 (the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum) from 12 to 7 p.m. July 31 with plenty of family-friendly, magical fun on hand. There will be photo opportunities, a costume contest and plenty of Potterthemed deals and offerings from many of downtown’s businesses. Visit the Plant City Main Street Facebook page for more information.
McDonald’s restaurants in the greater Central Florida area are currently raising money for local Ronald McDonald House Charities and families in need. Drive-thru customers are asked to either round up their bills to the nearest dollar or contribute an amount of either $1, $3 or $5 with their purchase. The fundraiser is expected to help make up for funding the
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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
UNCERTAIN SCHOOL YEAR LEAVES TEACHERS IN NEED OF HELP It’s hard enough for teachers to use their own funds to supply their classrooms every year. Now it appears they may also have to also find finances to have supplies to keep their rooms sanitary throughout an ongoing pandemic. Luckily, if the community wants to step up and lend a helping hand, there’s an easy option.
BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
At the start of a normal school year, teachers comb the Internet for sales and use money out of their own pockets to stock up on school supplies for their incoming students. They buy tissues and glue, notebooks and pens, staples and tape. Whatever a student could or would need in a classroom, they have to supply it. In a normal school year, that would come with enough obstacles. Some parents would help ease the burden by bringing in duplicates of items requested for their children to bring. Other teachers received help via social media and word of mouth. The focus was always on the school supplies themselves as the worst sicknesses they had to worry about were flu season or a lice outbreak. This year, things are different. With the majority of stores still restricting how many hand sanitizers, Clorox wipes and Lysol sprays one can purchase, the ability to fill a cart — if you’re fortunate enough to have the money to do so — is even less of a guarantee. Teachers aren’t even sure if their classrooms are going to open. And if they do, they have to protect not only themselves but the dozens of students that spend the majority of their days sitting and learning in their room. And they aren’t protecting them from a sniffle or a slight fever, there’s a chance the rapidly spreading illness could result in death if things go wrong. It’s a lot to face and many local teachers have voiced strong opinions on social media both for and against going back to school. Hillsborough County’s School Board has been live-streaming meetings as elected officials attempt to figure out the safest and best ways to navigate this complex issue. The videos have received thousands of views as parents and teachers alike tune in to figure out what is expected of them in the coming weeks. A clear answer hasn’t been found yet. So if you go to Target or Walmart, you’ll more than likely see men and women quickly darting down the aisles picking up their limited amount of supplies to start prepping for the new year. A survey from Deloitte found that 66 percent of K-12 parents as well as 62 percent of college parents are feeling anxious about sending their children back into
classrooms because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly enough, that same study found that parents aren’t shopping the way they usually do. Instead of buying new clothes or traditional supplies the parents are turning toward an interesting formerly niche market: technology. While 2020 spending for back-to-school excursions is expected to match that of 2019, the percentage of purchases that are spent on technology-based learning tools is expected to jump. There are multiple reasons that could be the case, but signs indicate many families have learned firsthand how crucial quality tech is when their children are trying to connect to virtual classrooms. The survey also found that parents are planning to spend more on personal health products than usual. It is estimated that parents will spend an average of $46 per student on supplies like hand sanitizer and wipes. If it holds true, that survey puts teachers in an interesting position. They’ll still need to have an abundance of sanitary items, as the reality is not every student will be prepared and the teacher will be responsible for frequently cleaning and disinfecting the classroom. But if students are spending less on traditional supplies, they will need those fully in stock as well to make up for the lack of materials brought into their classrooms. The Plant City Observer has been contacted by several people who either are teachers or know teachers who have created Amazon wishlists in hopes that the community will step up to help ease the financial burden of keeping their classrooms safe while also having everything needed for a positive learning environment. Shineta Armour, a preschool teacher at Discovery Point in Valrico, is asking for items ranging from nursery peel-and-stick wall decals to a magnet alphabet. Jenna Elizabeth, a third grade teacher at Knights Elementary, is on the hunt for pens and plastic envelope folders. Lane Proctor Jones, another third grade teacher at Knights, is looking for ring binder organizers and a desktop file folder for students. Kayla Jo Stewart, a second grade teacher at Walden Lake Elementary, is hoping to find a variety of children’s books on top of the traditional school supply list. Caitlin Orein, a teacher at Turkey Creek Middle School, has a few traditional school supplies, but is also leaning into the need to keep her classroom germ-free.
Kleenex boxes, disposable face masks, Lysol disinfectant spray, Clorox wipes, hand sanitizer and more are on her wish list. The Observer also reached out on Facebook and responses on a post there continue to accumulate. If readers are interested in helping out this fall, they merely have to head to the Observer’s Facebook page and click on the comment section on the post where there are an abundance of wishlists being posted. The links take viewers directly to Amazon where they can pick which items they want and have them shipped directly to the educator. Until the school district decides once and for all what the next
school year will look like for the county, teachers have to play it safe rather than risk not being ready for a year unlike any other.
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COPS CORNER
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
PLANT CITY
Observer
This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigated vehicle burglary, DUI, nap time in the car and more.
Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com
JULY 10 UP TO SCRATCH 1800 block of West House Street Criminal mischief: This victim reported to police that during the previous night an unknown suspect had scratched one of her vehicles and spray painted another one of her vehicles. NAP AT HOME 2000 block of North Wheeler Street DUI: Officers made contact with a woman who was found asleep in the driver seat. She was arrested for DUI.
JULY 11 STREWN ABOUT 1600 block of Rydell Lane Vehicle burglary: In response to a report of discarded items found in the area, officers made contact with a victim who confirmed their vehicle was burglarized during the previous night.
WAIT… DON’T I KNOW YOU? 1700 block of North Gordon Street Vehicle burglary: This victim told police that their vehicle had been burglarized of money and a variety of miscellaneous items over the course of the prior evening. However, while on-scene, officers found the suspect was known, had been contacted and the parties had reached an agreement for repayment/return of the items. A waiver was signed as a result.
JULY 12 SOUR SUNDAY 3300 block of Sydney Road Criminal mischief: This victim reported his vehicle had three tires slashed while he was at work.
JULY 13 SAY THAT TO MY FACE, YOU LIMP NOODLE 100 block of West Tomlin Street Battery: Officers were flagged
down in reference to a battery that had just occurred at the above listed location. Two men were having a verbal argument over the phone when one of them went to the other’s apartment and a fight occurred. The second man signed a waiver of prosecution. GOT BEEF WITH A THIEF 1400 block of West Dr. MLK Boulevard Grand theft auto: A white 2020 Toyota Corolla was reported stolen from Grandpa Johnson’s.
JULY 14 ADD IT TO THE BILL 2000 block of North Frontage Road Trespass & Criminal Mischief: Stingray Chevrolet employees reported to police that a customer’s GMC pickup truck had the driver’s window smashed out between 5 p.m. July 13 and 8 a.m. July 14.
Associate Editor / Sports Editor / Justin Kline JKline@PlantCityObserver.com
JULY 15
Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver.com
POUCH OF TREASURES Lake Boulevard Vehicle burglary: This victim reported to PCPD that a wallet and a money pouch with more than $2,000 was stolen when someone broke into his vehicle.
Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver.com
JULY 16
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IT’S A CRUEL, CRUEL SUMMER 800 block of North Maryland Avenue Theft: Officers met with this victim, who told them someone stole her son’s Xbox One S and iPhone 7.
Advertising / Richard Brame richard@plantcityobserver.com Advertising / Karen Berry kberry@plantcityobserver.com
CONTACT US
The Plant City Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The Plant City Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100B.
PICK A LANE Highway 92/Turkey Creek Road DUI: Officers conducted a traffic stop on a red Nissan truck after seeing it weaving and swerving on the roadway. A man was arrested for DUI.
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
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COVID-19 It appears the county commission may soon take over handling the pandemic response, stripping the power from the EPG. Under the proposal, the EPG would still remain in place to navigate the county through hurricanes.
BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
The mask mandate is still firmly in place as Hillsborough County attempts to get a grasp on the still rapidly rising COVID-19 cases. While the decision has yet to have unanimous support from the group, it has long held the majority and that dynamic seems far from shifting. The group extended the order with a 5-3 vote with Plant City Mayor Rick Lott, Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister and Hillsborough County School Board Member Melissa Snively voting against the order. The EPG meets every Monday and Thursday afternoon and starts with 20 minutes of public comment. Then the group members are given a wide-reaching and in-depth analysis of the medical snapshot of the county. This week, they were told that just over 13 percent of the population for Hillsborough
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County Emergency Management Director Tim Dudley announced that with the end of summer comes a new round of changes. Since their inception, the testing sites have been predominately staffed by volunteers from the University of South Florida College of Nursing. Those volunteers staffed community resource centers in east Tampa, Plant City, and SouthShore, but with the summer semester closing the county now has to look to new methods of obtaining a workforce. Dudley thanked the volunteers for their hard work and then announced Hillsborough would transition medical staffing at those three sites to a contracted provider, with the state funding the initial 14-day period. In an effort to restrict the ongoing spread of the virus, the county has been distributing face masks to the public at a variety of locations for the past several weeks. As of Monday the county announced it has distributed more than three million free face masks.
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County has been tested. Of those tested, 1.7 percent of the population has tested positive at some point. The rolling 14-day average of cases throughout the county is now at 670, a 5.9 percent increase. There is now also a 15 percent positivity rate in Hillsborough based on data from the daily test results. That came with a staggering reality. There has been a 23 percent increase in positive cases of COVID-19 over the past seven days alone. Another concerning issue was brought to their attention: “The current trend in data reported by the Florida Department of Health shows a higher aggregate amount of hospitalizations for individuals above 50 years of age,” according to the report. Of course Dr. Douglas Holt, head of the county health department, said the age group currently showing the highest rate of infection is 20 to 34 years old. The ICUs across the county are also showing a five percent increase over the past week. Residents will soon see a change at testing sites around the county. Hillsborough
813-986-1266
The conversation of stripping the power of the EPG for its pandemic response and reallocating that responsibility to the county commission continues to hover over every meeting. If the change is approved, the county will take the reins but every policy or ordinance currently in place will be automatically approved and continue under the county’s leadership. That means if the county commission begins handling the pandemic response, the mask mandate would automatically carry over until the county commissioners vote to not renew it. If the change occurs, the EPG would still be responsible for handling hurricane response. The next EPG meeting is at 1:30 p.m. this afternoon and it can be watched on the county’s YouTube and Facebook pages.
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
#WEAREPLANTCITY AMPLIFIES VOICES, OPENS DISCUSSIONS ON RACE
The hashtag, promoted by two local Instagram influencers, offers a platform for people in the Plant City community who have seen and experienced racism to share their stories. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The late Rep. John Lewis, an icon of the civil rights movement and a leader in the U.S. House of Representatives, left behind a legacy of bravery highlighted in many powerful quotes. One in particular has recently impacted people in Plant City: “When you see something that is not right, not just, not fair, you have a moral obligation to say something,” Lewis said. “To do something. Our children and their children will ask us, ‘What did you do? What did you say?’ For some, this vote may be hard. But we have a mission and a mandate to be on the right side of history.” That quote has been on the minds of residents Vicky Saunders and Alex Rhoades, a pair of social media influencers who run the popular Instagramers of Plant City and Today With Rae accounts, respectively. Talking about race in America is an extremely difficult thing for many people to do — plenty prefer to deflect away from the subject altogether, if possible — but a consensus sweeping the nation is that now is the perfect time to get uncomfortable and speak up about racial injustices. Through Saunders and Rhoades’ latest Instagram movement, #WeArePlantCity, locals who have been affected by and exposed to racism can now use their platforms to share their stories, to put faces and names to their experiences in hopes that others in Plant City will get a new perspective on the issue. They’ve seen similar movements in Tampa, Lakeland and other
cities near Plant City, but sensed there was a silence here that needed to be filled. “The main mission of #WeArePlantCity is to have a platform for voices, to start a dialogue and start empathizing,” Saunders said. “What I see in the comments and responses to everyone sharing their stories, it’s been very supportive. Conversations are happening and people are talking to each other in the comments section. That’s what this is all about. It’s creating an environment for people to speak without judgment, be in a safe space, make mistakes and learn how to be better for themselves, their family, their friends and the future of the community. It allows people to just be more open and more vulnerable, and get comfortable with being uncomfortable.” #WeArePlantCity has featured people’s stories about not fitting in with their peers in childhood and taking years to get comfortable in their own skin. Submitters have discussed the struggles of feeling like they belong in the organizations they’ve joined as adults and the experiences that have made them feel unwelcome among their peers. There’s also plenty to read about the experience of raising a family. One such account, from Alphonso and Naomi Cromartie, offers a unique perspective as the heads of a mixed-race family with young children. Alphonso wrote about overt racism he and his family have dealt with in the past and the microaggressions he faces today. “People think they’re complimenting me when they say I’m not like normal or other black people,” he wrote. “Literally just
spoke to someone, a small business owner in Plant City actually, that told me I’m not like typical black guys, that I’m a good man and I take care of my family and I’m there for my family… I can name 30 black men off the top of my head that ARE in the home taking care of their families. I could name 100 that I personally know if I actually sat down to think about it.” Naomi’s comments are much like those of people of other races who have submitted writings to #WeArePlantCity. She touched on the fact that even with good hearts and intentions, not all privileged people are aware of what people of color have to deal with on a regular basis until they either have a discussion with a person of color or see it for themselves while with a person of color. “Before I married (Alphonso) I lived in a white bubble,” she wrote. “I wasn’t racist, I didn’t think of black people as less than me or anything even close, but at the end of the day I’m still a white woman in America that has only known white privilege my whole life… I’m not saying you need to marry outside of your race for your eyes to be opened but I definitely want to encourage every white person that needs this to invite someone into their home, sit down, have dinner, let your kids play with individuals that don’t look like you. Listen to them, ask questions and HEAR THEM… just saying you’re not racist isn’t enough. Just saying you have black ‘friends’ isn’t enough. It takes action.”
Saunders, Rhoades and all who submit stories hope this movement will inspire people to look deeply inside themselves and consider what they may need to do to “be better allies” in the community. “Just with the stories and things floating around social media, it kind of made me take a step back,” Rhoades said. “Were there times I’ve used my privilege or times I’ve said anything that could be microaggressive? I had to take time and reflect and ask if I’ve been guilty in ways I didn’t even recognize. Then I had to ask how I can stop that, change it and recognize what’s going on.” The intent of #WeArePlantCity for people who have not been victims of racism, Saunders and Rhoades said, is not to shame them for their microaggressions. It’s a learning tool, a resource they can use to look at new perspectives and talk to people who have lived completely different lives in the same town at the same time. “It’s OK if you get it wrong,” Rhoades said. “You have time to learn. Use your resources, ask questions and be open to listening.” #WeArePlantCity content has primarily been posted and reposted on the @igersplantcity and @todaywithrae Instagram accounts, but Saunders and Rhoades are getting ready to move them to a new home in the @weareplantcity account. Anyone interested in sharing their stories for future use is asked to send them and their photos to the new account.
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: RESPONSE TO DAVID BAILEY
UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY HELPS SCHOOLS, STUDENTS WITH BIG BUCKS The Plant City organization donated a total of $64,000 to various school-related causes during the last two weeks.
As the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections, I was dismayed to see a letter to the editor (David Bailey, July 16) that contained completely false information. And while the paper included an editor’s note, I think it’s imperative that I confront, and correct, this misinformation and false narrative directly. The fact is, I mailed out information on how to request a Vote By Mail ballot, and I have not mailed ballots to anyone who hasn’t requested a Vote By Mail ballot. Florida has had no-excuse, secure Vote By Mail voting since 2002. This is not a new process for us, and there are very specific laws in place to ensure the integrity of this voting method. Only registered voters can request a Vote By Mail ballot. And I can only mail a ballot to those voters who have requested Vote By Mail. Before I was your Supervisor of Elections, I retired as a major from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. I take the law very seriously. Throughout the state, we usually see about a third of our voters voting by mail. In 2020, we expect the number to go up. As we deal with this health crisis, we are especially fortunate to be able to provide our voters with a safe, established way to vote from home. I am also committed to providing a safe in-person voting experience for those who prefer to vote at the polls. I’ll have 24 Early Voting sites open from Aug. 3-16 and more than 200 Election Day polling places open on Aug.18. Perhaps the greatest threat to the integrity of our elections process is misinformation. My website, VoteHillsborough.org, is a reliable source of information about voting and I encourage you to visit the site. In my office we do elections, not politics. I hope everyone will exercise their right to vote this year. --Craig Latimer, Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections
JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Plant City-area students will have a much easier time getting back to school thanks to a pair of donations from Unity in the Community. The group donated a total of $64,000 on July 16 and 21 to help schools tackle a pair of problems. The first donation, presented July 16 at Hillsborough County Public Schools Area 5 Superintendent Sharon Morris’ office at 703 N. Thomas St., will distribute a total of $14,000 among 27 area schools: Bryan Elementary, Willis Peters Exceptional Center, Advantage Academy, Wilson Elementary, Independence Academy, Bailey Elementary, Buckhorn Elementary, Burney Elementary, Cork Elementary, Dover Elementary, Durant High, Jackson Elementary, Knights Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Marshall Middle Magnet, Monroe Middle, Nelson Elementary, Pinecrest Elementary, Plant City High, Robinson Elementary, Simmons Career Center, Springhead Elementary, Strawberry Crest High, Trapnell Elementary,
Turkey Creek Middle, Valrico Elementary and Walden Lake Elementary. The second donation, presented in front of Plant City High School on Tuesday morning, will give PCHS an additional 240 portable computers to work with. The school, which started the year with 500 computers for 2,400 students, has had to send many computers home during the COVID-19 pandemic so students could participate in e-learning activities and not miss a beat. Adding 240 more with Unity’s donation — which matched a $50,000 contribution from the Raider Champions group’s own fundraising efforts — is a huge help for the school, principal Susan Sullivan said. Unity in the Community is a non-profit charity exclusive to Plant City where everyone involved is a volunteer and all money raised goes right back into the community, wherever it’s needed. The group, which turned 20 this year, is perhaps best-known for hosting the Florida Strawberry Festival’s annual car raffle with Stingray Chevrolet. Staff Writer Breanne Williams contributed to this report.
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
SPANO TRYING TO HELP CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE GET PPP LOANS
Rep. Ross Spano is pushing the H.R. 7397 bill to help chambers and destination marketing organizations become eligible for Paycheck Protection Program loans. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
According to U.S. Representative Ross Spano (R-FL), more than 68,000 jobs in his District 15 were “saved” by Paycheck Protection Program loans through the CARES Act. The opportunity to help even more employees stay financially secure has arisen. Spano believes chambers of commerce like Plant City’s should be able to get PPP loans, too, so he introduced H.R. 7397 on June 30 to get the ball rolling on an amendment to the CARES Act enacted in March. Spano’s bill is a companion to the Senate’s S. 3992 bill promoted by Republican senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz. Spano said even without leaders of his district’s chambers of commerce speaking to him about the issue, he felt including them is “vitally necessary” to help small businesses reach their highest potential. “I was a small business owner for 15 years before Congress,” Spano said. “I was a member of different chambers, I served on a board… I know the role smalltown chambers play in the community firsthand. After all this COVID-19 madness came down,
we knew small businesses were hurting and then we found out chambers were hurting just as much. They have a symbiotic relationship, so that made sense. If businesses can’t keep their employees, they won’t be able to continue to participate with chambers. If local chambers go under, small businesses won’t be able to get that support.” The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce is one of four in District 15 that publicly endorsed H.R. 7397. “(Spano) has seen firsthand the tireless work of chambers across the country and the tremendous impact we are having in our communities,” Christine Miller, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, said in a press release. “This bill will provide much-needed relief for our organizations, allowing us to continue to fight for our businesses and a strong economic comeback.” Since it was signed into law on March 27, the Paycheck Protection Program has led to the Small Business Administration issuing more than 4.8 million loans to help save more than 50 million jobs nationwide. In District 15, Spano said, 6,900 businesses have gotten PPP loans
totaling $457 million. His office is currently breaking down the numbers on a city-by-city basis. Though Plant City-specific data is not yet available, Spano estimates “at least hundreds of businesses” and “thousands of jobs” in town benefited from PPP loans. Early in the CARES Act’s existence, Spano said, there were concerns there wouldn’t be enough resources to help both businesses and chambers of commerce, which led to chambers being left out of the act. As of Monday, Spano estimated there was still roughly $130 billion available and said it’s “apparent we have resources necessary to help these chambers of commerce.” Though H.R. 7397 has not yet been passed, another of Spano’s requests has been granted. The deadline for businesses to apply for PPP loans has been extended through August 8. Business owners can visit Spano’s website, spano.house.gov, to get a copy of the application, view a list of participating lenders and get more information.
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JULY 23, 2020
SPORTS WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?
JUSTIN KLINE
WHAT IS THE FHSAA EVEN DOING? Monday’s nearly five-hour board meeting seemed like a colossal waste of time for everyone involved.
Quick Hits KNOTTS MAKES NATIONAL LONG SNAPPING TOP 12
Plant City High School long snapper Jackson Knotts was named last week to Rubio Long Snapping’s list of the top 12 long snappers for the class of 2021. Knotts, who is still weighing his collegiate options, was ranked at No. 12 on the list and is one of two Florida-based players, along with No. 1 Rocco Underwood of Lake Mary High School, to make the cut.
JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
One thing I think we can all agree on is that nobody likes a meeting that didn’t need to happen. I’d bet this is especially true when you’re stuck in it for almost five hours and most of them were spent getting absolutely nowhere. So, if you were one of the thousands who tuned in to the FHSAA’s emergency board meeting Monday evening, you’re probably feeling that way. If you didn’t know about it, the meeting was called and ultimately addressed the existing sports calendar. Here’s the short version: the July 27 start date for fall practices was upheld by a 10-5 vote and another meeting is scheduled for Friday to revisit the issue. Here’s the longer version: despite the facts the FHSAA didn’t allow live public comments or address public comments directly in the meeting, didn’t have the report it requested from its own Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) and doesn’t have complete authority over when schools can get back out there — some teams will have to start later than others due to their districts’ own COVID-19 restrictions and, in some cases, the state’s — the board went ahead and made decisions anyway. The good news about the July 27 start date is that it’s not a date in which all teams are forced to go back out there and practice if their school districts will allow them to do so. Teams and schools can wait it out if they choose. However, without any kind of autonomy it’s possible for schools that start earlier than others to recruit athletes. The FHSAA also agreed to give individual schools a date to declare intent to play in a state series and, if they opt out, to schedule more regular-season games. To me, this looks like a hard-line effort to keep the status quo going because maybe it’s just easier that way.
PARKS AND REC DEPARTMENT PROVIDES RESTART UPDATE The department is keeping an eye on COVID-19 statistics and, while it has not yet pushed its restart date back, the option looks realistic.
But there was an elephant in the Zoom. The board didn’t get the SMAC report until the meeting. No one had time to read it, digest its contents and talk to SMAC members. They voted on stuff anyway and agreed to the Monday meeting so that everyone could have a chance to read the report. What the heck is that? Why bother meeting at all when a report hugely relevant to the future of Florida high school sports, a report the FHSAA asked for, wasn’t even on the table? Why not just wait until everyone had it to call the first meeting? If that one would have run five hours long, at least it would have made more sense considering they’d have that information on hand and there must be much to discuss within it. The SMAC wants for football and volleyball to wait a bit longer to start given that those two sports are the most risky of the fall group (which also includes cross country, golf, swimming and diving, as well as bowling for FHSAA schools that offer it) as far as transmission potential goes. The SMAC believes statewide cases need to drop to more manageable numbers and positive test percentages, then give programs two weeks to work up to their seasons with heat acclimation and injury prevention. The FHSAA’s COVID-19 Task Force recommended pushing the practice start date back from July 27 to August 10, which would move the return to competition back to the very end of August at the earliest, and adopt a new classification system moving schools to new districts and regions based on when they’re able to restart. That idea was shot down, 16-0. Lauren Otero, president of the board and athletic director at Plant High School, moved to implement a COVID-19 questionnaire for FHSAA member schools — another SMAC recommendation. That idea was shot down, 12-4. I personally don’t understand the decision to completely ignore your own medical committee, which does contain
JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The Plant City Parks and Recreation Department’s goal is to get kids back on the field by Aug. 17. Though it’s still set on that date, the department has acknowledged that may not be the case for much longer if trends don’t improve. The department released a statement July 18 saying it’s still scheduling full use of its athletic fields for team conditioning and has not changed its decision to allow competition starting Aug. 17. Department director Jack Holland said PCPRD is closely monitoring the situation and reviewing reports from the Florida Department of Health, the Hillsborough County Department of Health, the University of South Florida Department of Medicine, the Hillsborough County Emergency Policy Group, and other Parks and Recreation departments around the region. What Holland and his staff have seen, however, is not great. He said the testing positivity percentage
legitimate doctors, but I don’t make the rules. I just write about them. I just wonder how you can see Texas moving its biggest football classes’ start dates back by a month and not take that as a wake-up call. Do you know how bad something has to be to get Texans to change their high school football plans? They’re the ones willing to spend $60 million to build a stadium in which to watch kids who aren’t even old enough to vote play football! In response to the meeting, Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Addison Davis announced Tuesday the start of athletics and extracurriculars in Hillsborough would be delayed two weeks and start Aug. 10. Otero criticized FHSAA executive director George Tomyn for the FHSAA’s approach to leadership — or a “lack of leadership,” she said — throughout the time of COVID-19. “I am asking for leadership from you and your staff,” Otero said. “It has not been displayed. We serve on this board and have full-time jobs doing something else. Not to make the day-to-day operations of the FHSAA.” I see where Otero is coming from. It’s basically a free-for-all right now and, to me, it appears the FHSAA is willing to sit back and let whatever happens happen. We’ll see what the next board meeting brings, and I’m hoping fully introducing the SMAC report and giving board members the time to study it will lead to better-informed discussions and decisions. I don’t think it could possibly be any worse than Monday’s meeting, though I also think the bar for that is so low you could trip over it if you drag your feet. Everyone from individual sports teams on up to the school districts themselves are looking to the FHSAA for leadership right now. There’s still time to give the masses something to be confident in. If the FHSAA stays its course, there’s no telling exactly what will happen with its member schools — but there’s a real chance the organization may not like it.
rate “continues to be at an unacceptable level” and that the department won’t be able to meet its goal of opening up or competition on Aug. 17 if the rate doesn’t decrease soon. “We have already seen several local tackle football organizations push back the start of their seasons into September,” Holland said. “We are already seeing many local school districts pushing back the scheduled start of school. FHSAA is considering a delay for fall high school sports. We are seeing many collegiate conferences canceling fall athletics or pushing them to the spring. Even at the professional level where money is no object, games have been canceled due to COVID-19 cases and no fans are being allowed anywhere near the players in order to protect both the players and the spectators.” Holland asked residents to “continue to stress social distancing, vigorous frequent hand washing, hand sanitizer and wearing face coverings when social distancing is not possible.”
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FOCUS ON FITNESS
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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
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MIKE GARTZ
CHILDHOOD OBESITY IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM
Taking steps at home to get your children into healthy eating and lifestyle habits will help them in numerous ways.
O
verweight and obese children will develop many health problems that will affect their emotional, mental and physical health. Through physical activities and balancing calories, overweight and obese children should be able to reduce weight and maintain that while developing and growing. If any parent or guardian is worried about their child’s diet, they should discuss these concerns with their doctor. What can happen? These children may have higher risks of contracting chronic medical conditions such as:
Asthma Bone/joint problems Heart disease High blood pressure Sleep apnea Type 2 diabetes
Also, children are often made fun of because of their weight.
They may experience teasing and bullying from their peers on the playground, which can lead to the development of depression, isolation and anxiety, along with a lack of self-confidence. This may cause them to stop socializing or being active, and to eat more — which can result in a vicious cycle. If you’re worried about your child’s health and want to encourage them to be healthier, there are plenty of tips you can follow. EXERCISE
Keeping your child active will burn calories and decrease their body fat. Aerobics, cardio and strength exercises are not only good for the body, but for the mind as well. Joining groups such as gymnastics, swimming or selfdefense can help improve your child’s health under the watchful eye of a qualified instructor.
NUTRITION
Involve your child in grocery shopping when possible. Teaching them about the different nutritional values of foods should encourage them to make healthy choices in the future. At home, children should help adults prepare meals in the kitchen so they can get accustomed to trying new foods.
PLAY
Going outside with your kids and participating in family activities will burn calories as well as encourage your family to bond together. Bike riding, hiking or walking around the park are fun activities and great ways to keep the kids active. Even simple games like tag and jumping rope can be fun and effective at burning calories. Aim for 30-60 minutes of physical activity per day, if possible. If children see adults eating healthy and participating in
7/9 & 7/23 2020 Keiser - Lakeland 231-1900-Lakeland-PCO-FirstStep-CJ-5x6 Plant City Observer 5x6 SB 6/30/20
physical activities, it may encourage them to do the same. Educating children about activities, exercise and nutrition from an early age is a great way to put them on the right track toward having healthier habits later in life. Offer your kids food packed with vitamins that are both low in fat and in unhealthy calories. Clean eating from a young age will help your child develop eating habits that are healthy and can reduce the craving for sugary snacks. Fruits and vegetables are a great start. Pureeing fruits and vegetables for babies can be beneficial. Mixing them with other fruits and vegetables can provide more than the minimum amount of vitamins and minerals they need. Combining vegetables with whole-wheat pasta, brown rice and other healthy options can also help. Limiting or cutting out sugary beverages that are high in fat and calories will also benefit your child. Encouraging them to drink more water will not only keep them hydrated, but also help them feel a little fuller and less inclined to eat large portions at meal times. Adding slices of natural fruit or vegetables like cucumber, lemon or lime is a refreshing way to change the ordinary taste of plain water.
Protein should come in the form of beans, lentils, poultry, fish and other lean meats. Homemade soups are a good source of protein, especially when adding beans, lentils or chicken. Getting your child involved in preparing these meals will not only teach them a life skill, but also how different types of healthy foods combine to provide nutritional value. Don’t forget to teach and show your child that physical activity can give them great benefits like reducing stress and anxiety levels, decreasing blood pressure, strengthening their bones, boosting self-esteem and managing weight. Overweight and obese children should engage in physical activity for 30-60 minutes per day. Encourage them to join you and reduce the time they spend on the game consoles, surfing the Internet and watching TV.
Mike Gartz is a personal trainer who owns I Hate My Trainer at 117 E. Reynolds St. Plant City.
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YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN
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We asked Facebook: If you believe there should be a season, what do you feel is the safest way for high school sports to return this fall? “I think it’s time to return to normal!! Our kids need this and for some it’s their last year. Start when school starts and be as safe as possible, But if the parent allows it let’s play ball!” — Kaley West “We need to return to a normalcy. Our children are bored, they miss their friends, they miss the social aspect. Teach them to be safe but we need to let go and not let this virus dictate our lives.” — Janice Frankowiak “Each parent need to decide what’s best for their individual family situation and weigh risks vs. benefits, but it’s time for the kids to come out of their cave and return to living as normal as possible.” — Cathy Rogers “Return to school, sports included. Safety guidelines like wash hands stay home if sick.” — Anne Jensen McAvoy
“I think if you can put them all in a classroom then they should be able to play sports! Outside activities keeps them healthy.” — Crystal Hunt-Bowman
“Return to normal without stipulation. Sports are a healthy outlet for children. They need exercise, sunshine and fresh air.” — Jordon Burk
“Kids and parents choice. Let them play. If they are meant to catch the virus they are going to catch it no matter what they are doing. Can’t hide any longer.” — Lisa Westmiller Johnson
“Kids need to socialize! Adults need education!” — T.D. Dempsey
“Cancel it kids are going to get sick before big games and then what if u lose half the team the season will be ruined either way and my kid plays.” — Justin Barber “I don’t believe there Is a safe way, sorry. I don’t even think kids should be going back to school.” — Traci Kyser
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Shirley Creach-Smith, 72, of Plant City, born in Tampa on June 8, 1948, entered into eternal rest on July 17, 2020. Expressions of condolence at www.hopewellfuneral.com.
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Raymond ‘Tubby’ Lester Crosby Raymond “Tubby” Lester Crosby, 76, of Plant City, born on Feb. 29, 1944, entered into eternal rest on July 13, 2020. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Floyd Roger Cox Jr. Floyd Roger Cox Jr., 60, of Tampa, born on Aug.19, 1959 in Bogalusa, Louisiana, entered into eternal rest on July 14, 2020. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
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Donna Rebecca McClamma, 61, of Plant City, born Dec. 14, 1958 in Beaufort, South Carolina, entered into eternal rest on July 14, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
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Gus L. Stansell, 90, of Gibsonton, born on Dec. 9, 1929, entered into eternal rest on July 19, 2020. Expressions of condolence at www.hopewellfuneral.com.
ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES
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Green Salisbury
Jimmy Hurley, 84, of Lake Wales, born in Bloomingdale on March 21, 1936, entered into eternal rest at his home at Lake Rosalie on July 16, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Green Salisbury, 90, of Plant City, passed away on July 14, 2020. Funeral services were held July 20, 2020 at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Felecia Bellamy, Dec. 9, 1966, went to her heavenly father July 15, 2020. There will be a viewing ONLY at Faith Temple P B Church 808 W. Washington St. Thursday, July 23, 2020 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Winslow Honors Funeral Chapel
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Gus L. Stansell
Jimmy Hurley
Felecia Bellamy
THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM
Arthur Dean Cox Arthur Dean Cox, former NFL Atlanta Falcons football tight end, passed July 10, 2020. Viewing/Wake Friday, July 24, 2020, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at St. Luke Independent Church, 809 E. Laura St. Graveside Services Saturday, July 25, 2020 at Garden of Peace Cemetery Plant City.
FAMILY. COMMUNITY. COMPASSION. VALUE. FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1971 HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
OBITUARIES
Donna Rebecca McClamma
Shirley Creach-Smith
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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
several times through the years, and he was a loyal employee staying through the changes, and lived in the great Coronet Family Community. The family especially thanks the following people for being so special to James during the last years of his life: Theresa, Shannon, Angie, Susan -- you all made his life so much better. No services or visitation will be held due to COVID-19. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.
OBITUARIES
Paul Dinnis Jr.
Paul Dinnis Jr., 61, of Plant City, passed July 20, 2020. Services will be held privately. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haught.care.
HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM
Larry Gene Snow
Larry Gene Snow, 77, of Lakeland/Addison, New York passed away on July 16, 2020. Larry was a Vietnam veteran of the United States Army. Services will be held privately. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haught. care.
Taking care of each other is what
James R. Everidge Sr.
Betty LeMaster community
Bettyabout. LeMaster, 85, of Plant City, is all passed away on Monday, July 20,
2020. Betty was born on April 13, 1935 inwe’re Plant City. dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. Fond memories and exprescelebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, sions of sympathy may be left at > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® www.WellsMemorial.com for the HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM LeMaster R family.
James R. Everidge, Sr., 94, of Plant City, passed away on July 19, 2020. He was predeceased by his parents, Irving and Betty Rayburn Everidge; his wife of 60 Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. years, Mary Jim; his son, Jim Everidge, Jr. and his brother Herbert Everidge. Aurelio Martinez He is survived by his daughWELLSMEMORIAL.COM ter, Mary Lib Stine (Don); Aurelio Martinez, 38, of RiverWells MeMorial & event Center his brothers, Cecil Everidge view, passed away on July 16, PlanT CiTy (Helen) and Charles “Buddy” 2020. 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Everidge (Jackie); 5 grandchilThe family will receive friends Ina Olds dren: Stacie Scalise, Justin Friday, July 24, 2020 from Stine (Jessica), Jared Everidge 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Ina Olds, 89 of Plant City, passed (Jessica), Adam Stine (Katie), Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. away on Wednesday, July 15, Logan Collier (David), and Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 2020. Ina was born on Sepmany loving great-grandchil33563. Funeral services temberwe’re 25,dedicated 1930to helping in Henderson, families create a W E ’ R E P R O U will D TO SfolE RV E our community unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. dren, nieces and nephews. low at 11:00 a.m.As Kentucky. celebrates the life it represents. your Dignity Memorial professionals, A proud, lifelong resident Online condolences>may memories and expres100% Service Guarantee Fond > National Plan Transferability The Compassionmay Helpline® > Bereavement of Plant City, he graduated be left for the family at www. Travel Assistance sions of> sympathy be left at Plant City High School class of haught.care. www.WellsMemorial.com for the R 1944, where he played several Olds family. Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. sports, including football and basketball, and was voted “cutest” in his class. He proudly served in the US Navy on the HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM WELLSMEMORIAL.COM USS Atlanta. His work career Wells MeMorial & event Center at Coronet Phosphate lasted PlanT CiTy 48 years. The company sold 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com ®
Leobarda Palacios de Perez Leobarda Palacios de Perez, 77, of Lakeland, passed away on July 19, 2020. The family will receive friends Thursday, July 23, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.
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Lori Ann Smith Lori Ann Smith, age 58, of Plant City, passed away on July 20, 2020. Services will be held privately. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haught. care.
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Taking care of each other is what
community
M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1
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is all about.
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®
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ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES
10/27/15 10:42 AM
OMG IT’S WEDNESDAY! PLANT CITY FARM AND FLEA MARKET 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
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LIKE KMART WITHOUT A ROOF!
287682-1
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PLENTY OF FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
WWW.PLANTCITYMARKET.COM
Universal Crossword Edited by David Steinberg July 23, 2020 PLANT CITY OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
I LOVE PLANT CITY
7/23
FORECAST THURSDAY, JULY 23 High: 90 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 60%
FRIDAY, JULY 24 High: 91 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 60%
31 Showtime sister station 34 Be of use 37 Disappointing fireworks 38 “2001: A Space Odyssey” computer 39 Mouth piece? 42 Check for accuracy 43 Large 53-Down product 45 Puccini opera set in Rome 46 Places where lives are saved, briefly 47 Dubai resident 50 Braying beast 52 Minivan, often 55 Eye drop? 58 Title for Anthony Hopkins
59 Jif competitor 62 At bat, or what’s associated with 17-, 23-, 39- and 52-Across? 66 Chinese or Korean 67 Additionally 68 Amanda of “Brockmire” 69 Makes less sharp 70 Driver’s supports? 71 They may be pierced DOWN 1 Action-reversing computer command 2 Posts, as a postcard 3 Button associated with a social media board 4 Small slice 5 2012 Oscar-winning
THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
High: 92 Low: 75 Chance of rain: 60%
SUNDAY, JULY 26 High: 92 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 60%
OKRA
Shipping point: Central Florida $14-$16
political thriller 6 Native for whom a tropical sea was named 7 Olympian Ohno 8 Equal: Prefix 9 Deadly 10 Yet to be broadcast 11 Airport vehicle 12 Common injury spot for NBA players 13 Joan of Arc, e.g., for short 18 Certain first-time parent 19 Poet Angelou 24 GPA disaster 25 Shade of purple 26 More mature, perhaps 27 Takes it easy 29 NYC’s Fifth, e.g. 31 Sticky-fingered one 32 “___ Mia!” 33 Assert 35 Playful prank 36 “How was ___ know?” 40 Record label for Alicia Keys 41 Island with many statues 44 Champagne first created for Alexander II 48 1986 sci-fi movie starring Sigourney Weaver 49 Model Banks 51 Mexican shawl 53 Cupertino-based tech giant 54 Witherspoon of “Little Fires Everywhere” 56 Sleep lab concern 57 IndyCar champion Danica Patrick, e.g. 60 Southwest art colony 61 Tennis court fixtures 62 Knee protector 63 Baton Rouge sch. 64 Feel less than 100% 65 Butter portion
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SUNRISE/SUNSET
Sunrise Sunset
Thursday, July 23
6:46a
8:23p
Friday, July 24
6:47a
8:22p
Saturday, July 25
6:47a
8:22p
Sunday, July 26
6:48a
8:21p
Monday, July 27
6:48a
8:21p
Tuesday, July 28
6:49a
8:20p
Wednesday, July 29
6:49a
8:19p
MOON PHASES
SATURDAY, JULY 25
Batter Up! by Agnes Davidson and Zhouqin Burnikel
ACROSS 1 Strike callers 5 Berry in some beauty products 9 “Star Wars” creator George 14 Hammer target 15 Knocks loudly 16 Pass into law 17 It’s often set in the evening 20 Pesto ingredient 21 Tuna steak choice 22 Hearty meal 23 Knight wear? 28 Nutrition label stat 30 Brew with a rhyming name
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Aug. 19 New
July 25 First
Aug. 3 Full
Aug. 15 Last
RAINFALL Monday, July 13
0.45
Tuesday, July 14 0.32 Wednesday, July 15
0.89
Thursday, July 16 0.19 Friday, July 17
0.00
Saturday, July 18 0.04 Sunday, July 19
0.10
YEAR TO DATE:
MONTH TO DATE:
2020 21.89 in.
2020 3.54 in.
2019 15.60 in.
2019 6.56 in.
WEATHER
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020
PlantCityObserver.com