7.30.20 PLCO by Plant City Observer

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VOLUME 6, NO. 108

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MASK MANDATE STAYS, BUT EPG MIGHT GO

Hillsborough County commissioners are weighing the possibility of scrapping the Emergency Policy Group, keeping in line with the rest of the state.

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THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) SEE PAGE 5

REMEMBERING ARTHUR COX Cox went from Plant City High School’s gridiron to spend nine years in the NFL, but he never forgot the people he came up with. He left behind a legacy of toughness on the football field and one of kindness off of it.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Winslow Honors Funeral Chapel

If all you knew about Arthur Cox came from reading newspapers’ sports sections in the 1980s and early 1990s, you might be shocked to learn that that guy was more than just the enforcer, the very last person on the football field you’d want to be mad at you. Cox himself would have preferred you didn’t take sportswriters’ word for it, either. They wrote plenty about him and hardly any of it was flattering. If he had the choice, he refused to talk to anyone with a recorder or a notepad for many years. Why would he have? There was always something negative to lob at him in a few column inches, something that either made him look like a villain or a replaceable part in a machine. So you have talk to anyone else who knew him — literally anyone else — to know what Cox was really like.

SEE PAGE 10

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

NEWS BRIEFS

PCPD looking for shooting suspect

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

Plant City Police Department is looking for a male suspect involved in a July 22 shooting incident near the 600 block of Bethune Drive. The department received a 911 call at approximately 1:32 p.m. in reference to a woman being shot and injured at the above listed location. Officers and fire rescue personnel responded. PCPD said the victim was shot several times by a known male subject who was riding as a passenger in a silver Nissan sedan with tinted windows and no visible tag. The vehicle was last seen driving eastward toward Park Road. PCPD said the victim was hospitalized. Anyone with information is asked to call the police department at 813-757-9200.

lando by Orange County Sheriff’s Office at 11 p.m. July 25. He faces a felony charge of Written Threat to Kill or Do Bodily Injury. Bancroft admitted to writing the posts “out of frustration” without intent to hurt anyone, HCSO said, but Sheriff Chad Chronister stressed that online threats are always going be taken seriously. “The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office takes all threats to injure or kill others very seriously, and this includes threats made online on various social media platforms,” Chronister said. “HCSO’s mission to serve, protect and defend the citizens of Hillsborough County extends beyond the streets we patrol every day. If you think you can hide behind a computer screen when threatening to hurt another person, you are absolutely wrong. I want to thank our law enforcement partners, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Orange County Sheriff’s Office, for their assistance throughout the course of this investigation.”

Man arrested for threatening to shoot protestors

HCSO hosts graduation at festival grounds

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced Sunday that deputies arrested a man for making online threats to shoot protestors associated with the Black Lives Matter movement. Polk County Sheriff’s Office informed HCSO that Alex Bancroft, 30, posted a threat on his Facebook account July 24 and told those who commented on his post to “keep ur eyes on Fla news.” HCSO said it later learned of an older Facebook post of his: “a photograph of playing cards from the game, ‘Cards Against Humanity.’ The prompt read, ‘That’s right. I killed _____. How, you ask? _____.’ Bancroft ordered the cards to read, ‘That’s right. I killed African children. How you ask? An AR-15 assault rifle.’” HCSO obtained a warrant for Bancroft’s arrest and attempted to serve it in Dover, but deputies found out he left Dover to stay with a friend in Clermont. Bancroft was eventually arrested in Or-

Nineteen new deputies in Detention Class 2001 were sworn into office in Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office’s latest graduation ceremony. The ceremony, held July 24 at the TECO Expo Hall at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds, comes after the new deputies finished 24 weeks of training “significantly impacted” by COVID-19, the sheriff’s office said in a press release. “For the safety of the cadets and training staff, extensive changes were made to their training schedule throughout the process due to the ongoing pandemic,” HCSO said in the release. “But despite the challenging circumstances, each of the cadets was able to take their state exam on time to graduate on (July 24). For the safety of law enforcement personnel, family and friends of the cadets, changes have been made to the traditional graduation ceremony as well, including a face cover-

ing requirement, limiting capacity, moving the graduation ceremony from Falkenburg Road Jail to the significantly larger TECO Expo Hall and spacing the loved ones of cadets six feet apart within the venue.” This graduating class features cadets representing “five different nations” and five of the 19 grads are women. “I couldn’t be more proud of all that these cadets have accomplished, as individuals and together as a class. Even in the best conditions, becoming a deputy is not an easy process, but the coronavirus made their training even more difficult,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “These deputies persevered. Their strong work ethic and determination are exactly what we need in public servants of Hillsborough County. We are grateful for their commitment to protect and serve our community.”

Girl Scouts create 24 new badges Girl Scouts of West Central Florida and Girl Scouts of the USA have introduced 24 new badges in an effort to encourage girls to be ambitious, decisive leaders in traditionally male-dominated fields, GSWCF said in a July 21 press release. The new badges apply to areas of automotive engineering, STEM, entrepreneurship and civics. “Now more than ever, it’s critical that we have strong leaders who can make informed decisions that make the world

a better, safe place,” GSUSA CEO Sylvia Acevedo said. “During our current health crisis, the world leaders who have been among the most decisive and effective in addressing the pandemic have been women. With these new badge experiences in STEM, entrepreneurship and the critically important subject of civics, Girl Scouts is continuing to build the transformational female leaders of today and the future and showing girls the power they have to truly change the world.” New badges include: • Toy Business Designer (Daisy) • Budding Entrepreneur (Brownie) • Business Jumpstart (Junior) • Business Creator (Cadette) • Business Startup (Senior) • Entrepreneur Accelerator (Ambassador) • STEM Career Exploration (Brownie, Junior and Cadette) • Automotive Design (Daisy, Brownie and Junior) • Automotive Engineering (Daisy, Brownie and Junior) • Automotive Manufacturing (Daisy, Brownie and Junior) • Democracy for Daisies • Democracy for Brownies • Democracy for Juniors • Democracy for Cadettes • Democracy for Seniors • Democracy for Ambassadors • Cyber Challenge (Cadette, Senior and Ambassador)

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES TO ADD DR. SCOTTY AND HSIU HUANG HISTORY CENTER advancement of his profession. Along with other suggestions from Dr. Hal Brewer, Dr. Scotty joined the Kiwanis Club of Plant City in 1974 and remained a member through 2020, participating in the many programs for kids. Scotty and Hsiu have four sons, all of whom graduated from Plant City High School: David (1978), Greg (1980), Robert (1984), and Fred (1988). Scotty and Hsiu were fond of tennis and their sons all

GIL GOTT

We all know him as Scotty, or Dr. Scotty. His official name is Shich Cheih Huang. Dr. Huang, his wife Hsiu and their family have enjoyed living in Plant City for the past 48 years. In appreciation of the work of the Plant City Photo Archives, Dr. Huang has made a donation to the Photo Archives for which the History Center, a component of the Plant City Photo Archives institution, will be named the “Dr. Scotty and Hsiu Huang History Center, Plant City Photo Archives.” Dr. Scotty Huang landed in Brooklyn, New York, a young physician from Taiwan, in 1964, furthering his medical education and beginning a long trip that would land him in Plant City eight years later. Born in 1935 and raised in Changhwa, Taiwan, Scotty Huang excelled in academics and at the age of 19 was admitted to the best medical school in Taiwan – National Taiwan University, College of Medicine. On campus he met one of the most intelligent and lovely young women, Hsiu Yun Chen, a student at the School of Pharmacy. They were married in 1960. Completing his medical school program in 1961, Dr. Scotty served in the Taiwanese army as a 2nd Lt. in a medical facility 1961-1962, followed by a residency program in Obstetrics at Provincial Taichung Hospital until 1964. He then set sail for the U.S.A. In Brooklyn, NY, Huang completed additional training from 1964 to 1966, and with Hsiu and two sons they moved to Pottsville, PA, working for Good Samaritan Hospital until 1967. It was here that he adopted the name “Scotty.” He began to use the name of Dr. Scotty so as not to have “Dr. Huang” confused with “Dr. Hung” at the same medical facility. He has kept it ever since. Dr. Scotty sought additional training in pediatrics and moved to Phoenix, AZ in 1967, completing that program in 1969. Huang then worked in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Man, WV, where he served as a community pediatrician until 1972. He then heard from a former colleague that Plant City needed a pediatrician. That was Dr. Scotty Huang’s calling. He moved to Plant City, where he was greeted by Dr. Hal Brewer and never looked back. Dr. Brewer set Dr. Huang up with an

office and, being the only pediatrician in Plant City, he became very busy – especially since Dr. Brewer sent him a steady flow of patients. In 1974 Huang purchased a nearby lot, constructed an office building, and set up his private practice as Plant City’s Pediatrician. Hsiu Yun Huang, who had a degree in pharmacy and had taught biochemistry, was his most loyal assistant when needed. Her primary concern, however, was raising their family. He was known for putting in long hours beyond what was normally expected. Dr. Scotty Huang’s passion was taking care of his patients — whatever that took. In 1975 a malpractice suit was filed against him; he had done everything right and did not understand the legal action. During the deposition he was asked if he had published anything. Why, he thought, would publishing have anything to do with his patient care? Ultimately the case was dismissed but Huang began to think about publishing. And publish he did. Dr. S. C. (Shich Cheih) Huang wrote several scientific papers, three of which were successful in being published. His first was in the April 1979 issue of Clinical Pediatrics, titled “Unusual Incidence of Congenital Complete Heart Block in a Small Community Hospital.” It drew praise from the editor, “How unusual it was for a busy pediatrician in a small rural town to take the time and effort to write a scientific article and report an interesting finding that he has noticed in practice. We would like to encourage other pediatricians to follow this lead.” His first published article also drew requests for reprints from doctors in the U.S. and from distant countries including Israel, Uruguay, Germany, and Hungary. He was pleased that perhaps he had helped someone. Dr. Huang’s second scientific paper titled, “Congenital Listeriosis: A Case Report,” was published in The Journal of the Florida Medical Association in 1981. He again received reprint requests from abroad: Germany, Czechoslovakia, Spain, Canada, Mexico, and others. He was pleased that he could benefit the medical profession. The third paper appeared in 1982 and was also published by The Journal of the Florida Medical Association. It was titled, “Bacterial Meningitis; A Pediatrician’s Unusual Encounter,” and was also widely praised. Dr. Huang is still proud of the responses to his articles in that they reflect an

excelled at the sport; they were standouts on the Plant City High School tennis teams. Robert was considered one of the top junior tennis players in the State of Florida. David, Greg, Robert, and Fred were also exceptional in academics: three were Valedictorians of their class, and one was summa cum laude and 3rd in his. They are all in the medical or educational professions today. Dr. Huang retired from his private practice in 1997 and continued to participate in his Kiwanis Club programs and began years of volunteerism. He joined Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine (LVIM),

2001 to 2019, and has served over 2,000 hours. He received the Lakeland Physician of the Year Award in 2011. He also volunteered at local Plant City schools. Unfortunately, Hsiu Huang suffered a stroke in 2019. Dr. Scotty and Hsui Huang have since moved to Tallahassee, near their son Dr. David Huang.

Photos courtesy of the Dr. Scotty and Hsiu Huang History Center, Plant City Photo Archives

COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

RENTAL

This week on Cops Corner:

PLANT CITY

Observer

Plant City Police investigated shots fired, a stolen truck, a stolen phone, a temper

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

tantrum and more.

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editor / Sports Editor / Justin Kline JKline@PlantCityObserver.com

JULY 17 INEXCUSABLE EX 2300 block of North Johnson Road Burglary: A woman told police her ex-boyfriend kicked in her front door, causing damage to the door frame. He then took her car keys without permission. She signed a waiver of prosecution. A BAD HOLIDAY 2100 block of North Park Road Vehicle theft: Officers responded to the Holiday Inn Express at the above listed location and met with the victim, who reported his 2001 Chevy Silverado was stolen. EASY PICKINGS 2300 block of James L. Redman Parkway Vehicle burglary: A black LG cell phone was stolen from an unlocked vehicle at Pizza Hut.

JULY 19 STUBBLE AND TROUBLE 2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway Shoplifting: A man was arrested for shoplifting $61 worth of batter-

ies and an electric razor. He was charged with felony petit theft and transported to Orient Road Jail.

JULY 20 DODGING BULLETS Brown Street and Camp Court Armed robbery/waiver: A man reported that while walking down the road on the previous Saturday, a black Nissan Altima pulled up to him occupied by what appeared to be three men, who pointed a firearm at him and demanded items. He stated he fled on foot and a gun fired at him, but he never reported the incident. His father suggested he do so, but both simply wanted the incident documented and requested to sign a waiver.

JULY 21

TEMPER TANTRUM 1300 block of South Collins Street Criminal mischief and battery: Enterprise Leasing employees reported that upon denying a returned vehicle, the renter pushed one of the employees and then damaged property at the location. The employees signed a waiver for the battery, but the criminal mischief charge was pressed and a court date was provided.

JULY 22 BULLYING THE BULL DOZER 3700 block of Fancy Farms Road Criminal mischief: A Ripa construction employee reported an unknown subject shattered that windows of a bull dozer, excavator and a water truck between 5 p.m. and 6:30 a.m.

Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver.com

LOANS AT LOWES 2800 block of James L. Redman Parkway Fraud: This victim reported to police that he lost his wallet at Lowes. The investigation revealed the credit cards that were in the wallet were recently used at Lowes and the fraudulent charges totaled $268.46.

Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

TO ADVERTISE Call (813) 704-6850

JULY 23

Advertising / Richard Brame richard@plantcityobserver.com

WARRANT ON WARRANT ON WARRANT 500 block of Herring Street Felony warrant (x5): A 24-yearold man was arrested on five different warrant charges out of Polk County, which included attempted murder. He was transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

Advertising / Karen Berry kberry@plantcityobserver.com

The Plant City Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The Plant City Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100B. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

CONSULTING THE POLICE 3000 block of James L. Redman Parkway Burglary: An employee of Product Consultants Unlimited reported an unknown suspect broke out a window of the business, entered and stole two computers valued at more than $1,200.

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Edited by David Steinberg July 31, 2020

Mail: The Plant City Observer, 110 E. ACROSS 46 Fat in some 11 E, on a 41 Can. Reynolds St., Suite 100B, Plant City, 1 Wonderland puddings fuel gauge neighbor FL 33563 visitor 47 It’s not the 12 Direct along 44 Shelter dog, 6 ___ curls main way in a path hopefully (arm 49 Like some 13 Fossil resin 45 Old-school exercises) lab testing 18 Two cents’ engine’s Facebook: Plant City Observer 11 Period often 52 Red, Yellow worth power Instagram: @plcobserver named for a or Black 22 Woolly source Twitter: @PlantObserver president 53 Abstract female 47 (Not my 14 Khartoum’s ideas 24 Peaceful mistake) FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT country 56 Seyfried 26 Names on 48 Holiday Inn 15 Former who played social media, competitor president Cosette in in a way 49 Words of $100 who gave a “Les 27 Bring on compassion 110 W. Reynolds Street | Suite 109, Plant City, FL 33563 virtual comMiserables” 28 Michael PrepareS.Cameron to 50 26-Across, OFF On any job 1000 Financial Advisor for one michael@cameronfm.com mencement | CAMERONFM.COM 61 Madison, publish or more when you We’re On Top of It speech e.g., inFINRA/SIPC NYC 29 Stiller of 51 Letter-mention this ad. Securities Offered Through LPL Financial Members 813.759.8485 in 2020 62 Actors’ “Zoolander” shaped shirt NEW ROOFS • RE-ROOFS 16 May foundation, 30 Attack that feature We’re On TILE • TILE REPAIRS We’re On Top Top of of It It honoree e.g.? takes a 54 “Ciao, old HOT TAR/FLAT DECKS 17 Chocolate64 Remote long time chap!” NEW ROOFS • • RE-ROOFS SHINGLES • VENTILATION NEW ROOFS RE-ROOFS coated ice button that’s 31 Coins at 55 Some NCOs TILE TILE TILE• •REPAIRED TILEREPAIRS REPAIRS LEAKS HOT HOTTAR/FLAT TAR/FLATDECKS DECKS cream treat often red an arcade 57 Similar (to) SHINGLES • VENTILATION 25SHINGLES Years of E•xVENTILATION ence i r 19 Trivia locale, 65 Fighting fish 34 Went in 58 With no ice e p REPAIRED STATE FARM® AGENT RLEAKS ESLEAKS IDENTIAL & CREPAIRED OMMERCIAL often 66 Fashion circles? 59 Beach 252Y5eYaerasrsofofEExxppeerrieiennccee 20 Princess designer von 35 Guinness mound Jasmine’s Furstenburg who played 60 Our closest Leak & Re-Roofing Specialists – WE FIX LEAKS NO ONE ELSE CAN! Plant City Observer dad 67 Big-antlered Obi-Wan relatives at Specialists Leak & Re-Roofing Specialists – WE FIX LEAKSNO NOONE ONE ELSE ELSE CAN! CAN! Leak & Re-Roofing – WE FIX LEAKS Free Estimates • Financing Available is locally owned by 21 Getting-ready animal Kenobi the zoo Ed Verner, Karen Berry, 24-Hour Emergency Service Auto | Annuities | Home | Life | Small Businesses | Retirement 24-Hour Emergency Service routine 68 Rise provider 36 Plastic bag 63 24-Hour Nosh on Emergency Service Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes Buddy &Owners Crystal Cheaves, Owners Buddy & Crystal Cheaves, 23 CDs’ 69 Gets ready for alternative Buddy & Crystal Cheaves, Owners 1702 S. Alexander, Plant City, FL 33563 www.BuddysRoofing.com Lic # CCC1325993 • Bonded & Insured Lic # CCC1325993 Bonded &•Insured predecessors a poker hand 38 Cruises past www.BuddysRoofing.com Lic #•CCC1325993 Bonded & Insured www.BuddysRoofing.com The Plant City Observer is published by Plant City Media 25 Attorney DOWN LLC. This week’s Sudoku answers1 Sets as a This week’s Crossword This week’s 26 Toni PREVIOUS PUZZLEanswers ANSWER Celebrity Cipher answers Morrison’s price first book 2 “The 110 E. Reynolds, 32 Assistant Farewell” Suite 100B 33 Vacuum tube director Wang Plant City, FL 33563 with three 3 Person you (813) 704-6850 Puzzle Solution: components worship 34 Plopped into 4 Is powerless “Actors ... get away with a lot. ... I a chair to find it equally intresting and excitPublishers of the 37 Make a 5 Ultimate goal ing as it is disgusting and bizarre.” meal? 6 ___ choy ~ Joel Edgerton 39 “OMG A 7 Skeptical Plant City Observer MOUSE!” reply 40 Lego brand 8 Baja resort, for young for short children 9 Sent with 42 Completist’s a click PlantCityObserver.com goal 10 Turned into a ©Copyright Plant City Media LLC 2018 7/30 © 2020 Andrews McMeel Universal 43 Stretches of big win, as All Rights Reserved www.upuzzles.com mountains a small bet RESRIEDSEINDTENIATLIA&L & OMM ERECRICAIALL COCM

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

MASK MANDATE ARTISTS INVITED TO PAINT PLANT CITY REMAINS, EPG ON THE BRINK

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

MAKE Plant City and Plant City Main Street have partnered up to create a canvas art project. Artists are invited to submit their pieces in hopes of having them hung on massive canvases throughout historic downtown. Submissions are due Sept. 30. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The mask mandate was renewed for another week, but Hillsborough County commissioners are considering eradicating the EPG once and for all. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

For the first time in months, the data presented to members of the Hillsborough County Emergency Policy Group showed hopeful trends. Dr. Douglas Holt, director of the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County, reminded everyone the community transmission of the virus remains widespread despite the promising numbers that the county is starting to see. That essentially means we are on the path to hopefully coming out the other side, but we are far from there yet. The data showed the new rolling 14-day average of cases is 566, which is a 15 percent decrease. The rolling 14-day daily positive rate is 13.22 percent, which is determined based on the daily test results over the past two weeks. Hospitals also took a quick sigh of relief as data showed emergency room check-ins for COVID-19-like symptoms indicated a downward trend for the week of July 19. But the county is by no means out of the woods. In fact, Hillsborough has long been dubbed a hotspot in Florida for thriving cases and that doesn’t look to change anytime soon. In May, the county was looking at five positive cases per 100,000 residents, according to Holt. To compare, we now are at 241 confirmed cases per 100,000 residents. In order to get the spread of COVID-19 contained enough to where the county wouldn’t be considered a hotspot, Hillsborough would have to be at less than 175 cases per 100,000 residents.

In Florida, the number of positive cases is now at 441,977 as of Wednesday. The death toll is now 6,240. Based on those numbers, the group voted to once again keep the mask mandate in place. The vote was once again split 5-3 with dissenters School Board Chair Melissa Snively, Plant City Vice Mayor Nate Kilton and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Donna Lusczynski. There wasn’t much discussion regarding the situation during Monday’s meeting, but the topic was highlighted once again during the Tuesday Hillsborough County Commission meeting. Commissioners voted in support of an ordinance that would shift the responsibilities for emergency responses back to the County Commission and away from the EPG. That was a shock to most as all of the conversations prior said pandemic response would go to the county if this change was approved, but the EPG would still handle storms and hurricanes. The ordinance voted on Tuesday would disband the EPG altogether. Hillsborough is the only county in the entire state that has an Emergency Policy Group. County commissioners have decided it’s time to cut the ties and join the rest of the state. The ordinance will receive its final vote following a public hearing on Aug. 5. Any member of the community is invited to speak if they wish. Then, commissioners will decide the EPG’s fate once and for all.

Downtown will soon be vibrant once more thanks to a partnership between MAKE Plant City and Plant City Main Street. The two organizations are working together to bring a canvas art project to life. Mirroring the success of a similar project in Lakeland, the project will allow artists to submit their proposed art pieces to a panel comprised of representatives from a variety of groups in the community, including the Improvement League, the Boys and Girls Club of Tampa and the Woman’s Club of Plant City. If selected, those artists will then come to town and paint their pieces on a massive canvas that will be treated to essentially be weatherproof, then hung downtown. “As far as Main Street is concerned, as part of the design committee we have been working on getting murals downtown,” Lizzette Sarria, treasurer of Main Street, said. “We were asking, ‘What can we do to get some public art downtown?’ And with the mural ordinance, we had to look at our other options. We decided to go visit David Collins in Lakeland, who had done a temporary canvas project there that was very successful. We thought that would be a great way for us to get the art in downtown in a way that everyone would be on board with. Then the natural collaboration was for us to partner with MAKE because that group really involves so many artists in our community.” MAKE Plant City, a local group of creatives and makers, agreed and the work began to juggle all the interconnected and moving parts to make the project a reality. The City of Plant City agreed, as did many of the business owners throughout downtown, and it is now finally time for artists to send in their proposals. Arley Smude and Vicky Saunders, founding members of MAKE, scoped out downtown and identified more than 80 potential locations for the art to hang. Obviously the first phase of this project will only cover a fraction of those spots, but the hope is that it will be a massive success which will lead to future expansions. No two pieces will be alike, as each canvas will vary in size depending on the wall upon which it will be hung as well as the dynamics of the painting that will cover it. There are a handful of parameters the artists are asked to stay within, but the rest is entirely left to their vision. The art must be scalable from a [4’W x 4’H] to [12’W x 9’H] and cannot include any content that is political, religious, profane, features nudity or obscenities. Artists will be compensated upon approval from

the Paint Plant City panel. Submissions are due Sept. 30 and then the panel will review the submissions and get back to the artists that have been selected by the end of October. The timeline of how long each piece will remain up will vary based off of the wishes of the building owners. However, Sarria said the project will have taken a year to complete before a single painting is hung and they are hoping they can remain in place for at least 12 months. The Paint Plant City project will feature high-quality art from local artists and will temporarily have them erected at 10 to 15 locations in Phase 1. Smude said the only approach they have for artists is to create something that fully represents their style and theme. Then the best art that represents all pockets of the community will be selected. That art would compliment downtown and show Plant City is evolving. “It’s visually going to improve the area,” Sarria said. “It’s gong to bring art downtown and it’s something to see. Otherwise it’s a blank slate, a blank wall and now there’s this art. I think it brings creativity to the entire community and forces people to look at things kind of differently… It tells people ‘Hey, change is coming and change can be good.’” With the current mural ban in place, this is a creative solution to still improve and beautify downtown without going against any of the taboo restrictions the city has in place. Many have voiced opposition to the long outdated ban and there is a chance this project will show that art can positively change the community. The hope is once the artists have been selected, there can be an event where the public can come watch the artists paint downtown and then, right before they are hung, there may be a gallery exhibit with each piece for the public to come and enjoy them all in one place. With this project kicking off in the middle of the pandemic, many of those possibilities are still up in the air. Local artist Angie Klein created her canvas piece as an example of what the project will look like. It is currently hanging at Krazy Kup in the alley, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., for all who are looking for inspiration. Artists who wish to submit their works can do at plantcitymainstreet.org/paintplantcity. If you have any questions, email paintplantcity@plantcitymainstreet.com. Follow @PCMainStreet and @MAKEPlantCity for #PaintPlantCity project updates.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

All wizards are invited to join Plant City Main Street tomorrow for a special celebration in honor of Harry Potter’s birthday. Plant City will once again pay homage to The Boy Who Lived as muggles and wizards alike are invited to a socially distanced version of Harry Potter’s Birthday Celebration tomorrow in historic downtown. For the past two years, Greg Williams has rallied the businesses in the downtown core to embrace their Hogwarts houses and throw a party none would soon forget. Last year, visitors flocked from all over, including a family from the panhandle and a wizarding group from Orlando. Plant City has gained a reputation from increasing the magic of the festive event each year and this time, despite the pandemic, the businesses are ready to do it again — though with an altered mindset. Williams is now the chair of the Plant City Main Street Downtown Merchants Committee. Main Street is stepping in to bring the event to life again while making sure everyone is following CDC guidelines and social distancing. When young witches and wizards arrive downtown, they are asked to come to King’s Cross, aka the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, and register with Main Street. The group will check temperatures at its booth and hand out brochures with the participating businesses and safety guidelines on the back. Then attendees can move through the railroad depot toward Platform 9 3/4. Several photo opportunities have been built so families can snap pictures of themselves pushing a buggy with their luggage and owl cage through the platform wall toward the Hogwarts Express. “This is the goal of the Merchants Committee,” Williams said. “We want to bring people downtown and with the partnership of Main Street and the city, we can do so safely while still really highlighting our businesses here.” Main Street wants to protect all who visit the wizarding world, so face masks are required. They will provide free masks while supplies last. There will be plenty of time for everyone to stroll through the experience at their leisure. The event is scheduled from 12 to 7 p.m., though some stores are sticking to their normal business hours and may close earlier.

Any witch, wizard or muggle who feels under the weather is asked to stay home. Main Street posted on its social media that it is crucial we all do our part to stop the spread of COVID-19 while also supporting the small businesses that form the backbone of our community. Once attendees have traveled to Hogwarts, their wizarding adventures will begin. Businesses throughout downtown will participate in the event and will have their own magical creations available for those who pop in. To help with social distancing, those participating are asked to stay with their Hogwarts housemates. Don’t mingle with other houses. You are in charge of your own adventure, so you can go in any direction you please. If you wish to be sorted into a house, head to Brick City Bricks and bite into a sorting cupcake. Will green icing be your fate? Or perhaps you’re aiming to see a shining blue swirl within? The store will also have Harry Potter LEGO specials throughout the event. The Brick House Cafe is also offering Sorting Hat cupcakes as well as golden snitch cake pops and quidditch popcorn brooms for kids with the purchase of a meal. Perhaps you’re dismayed at the abundance of muggle decor in the home you’ve been quarantining in? Fear not: two stores have a perfect answer for you. TubTreats Bath & Body is selling specially made Harry Potter-themed soaps and products. Spirit Art Gallery is featuring Harry Potter furniture, including Hedwig tables, owl and dragon chairs and a dragon trunk. Those who have had their happiness strained by a dementor are in luck. You don’t need to summon your patronus, just hop on over to The Kandy Shoppe and pick up some chocolate frogs. Walking all over downtown will surely whip up an appetite. Fly on over to Krazy Kup for a frothy butterbeer or take some floo powder to pop into the Floor Network and swing by The Corner Store for butterbeer cupcakes and pumpkin drinks. The Industry is also offering a specialty drink in honor of the special event. Dark Horse Music will have chocolate wands.

Professor Filius Flitwick apparated into or doing magic throughout downtown is K.E.Y. Esthetics this week and charmed entirely up to their discretion — and then a plethora of keys to protect their great send them to Main Street via a private discounts. The flying charms each hold message on Facebook. A virtual costume a special discount and the store will also contest will then take place. On Friday, have a fun book of beauty enchantments. Main Street will post all the photos it has If you’re new to Hogwarts and in need received and voting will begin. The photo of a wand, have no fear. Ollivander himself with the most likes by Sunday evening stopped by Carlson Gracie and is spon- will be the winner and they will receive a soring a Harry Potter Wand giveaway. special downtown gift basket. Dealing with the pressure of passing If prior years are any indication, this your OWL exams while juggling the stress event will undoubtedly be a fun expeof fighting basilisks and Death Eaters can rience for all who attend and will draw cause any witch or wizard to break. Take families and friends from across the state. some of the anxiety away by stopping at “Everybody loves Harry Potter,” WilAromatic Harmony. The store is offering liams said. “It’s the same as with our May magic chair massages and a BOGO sale on the Fourth event. Anything that has a big enchanting teas and herbs. following really draws people to downClever Massage has created a lotion town. People come from all over and now, potion in honor of Harry’s birthday. It is when you incorporate Main Street’s influalso offering broom pens and a $10 off cou- ence and the city, I really think it’s going pon. The Honey Pot Wax Studio is leaping to take this a step further than we’ve done off the broom with its golden snitch balls before.” and specials. The studio is also offering a For more information on the event, head magical raffle basket. Entries are $1 and to Plant City Main Street’s Facebook page you could win a a makeup brush set, a $25 or pop over to plantcitymainstreet.org. If gift card, Harry Potter goodies and more. you would like to volunteer for the event, Of course no Slytherin, Gryffindor, head to the Facebook page to sign up. Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff outfit is complete without Harry Potter house stacked bracelets, which are available at Tennessee Jane Boutique. We’ve all dreamed of donning our quidditch robe and becoming the best keeper or chaser in Hogwarts history. I Hate My Kid’s Trainer is giving you the chance to earn your house glory with its specially crafted Quidditch Obstacle Course. Other magical deals include 75 percent off of select items at Miss Ruby’s Antiques, a Harry Potter gift with any purchase at The Mercantile and five percent off any repair with Hogwarts Spirit at The Device Clinic. “There’s a lot of new businesses stepping up this year,” Jeremy Rhodes, vice president of Main Street, said. “The merchants were going to do it again because they’ve really established this great event over the years, so we wanted to support our downtown and step in and help with safety protocols and really just keep the momentum going. We are all working IF YOU GO together to make this a successful event Harry Potter’s Birthday Celebration and the hope is, even though this year we When: Friday, July 31 from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. are having to really focus on safety, that Where: Downtown Plant City, 102 N. next year this event will only continue to Palmer St. grow and we can really make it a massive Cost: Free to attend. experience.” As attendees navigate throughout the day, they OVE R 40 Y E ARS E XPE R I E N CE should remember there is a hand sanitization station R E S I D E NTIAL • CO M M E RCIAL • AD D ITI O N S back at the depot so they R E N OVATI O N S • H I S TO R I C R E S TO R ATI O N S can kill any germs they may have come in contact with before heading to the next stop on their journey if they don’t bring portable hand sanitizer with them. The fun doesn’t end after the last shop closes its doors. Throughout the event, attendees are invited to snap photos of their magical experiences — whether at the multiple 813 -9 66 -1138 photo ops at Kings Cross, their favorite businesses M OZ ARTCON STRU C TION .COM

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

MARSHALL MIDDLE MAGNET MAKING CHANGES INSIDE AND OUT

The school unveiled its new teachers’ lounge and learning lab Tuesday afternoon and is preparing to work on the outside to get the school a fresh look before classes begin.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Marshall Middle Magnet School’s transformation isn’t only about what’s happening in the classrooms. The school staff is serious about making sure virtually every aspect of the Marshall experience is improved as it heads toward a new life as Plant City’s third IB school. That means making physical improvements everyone who sets foot on campus or even drives by it can see. Two of those improvements to the school were unveiled Tuesday afternoon and are strictly for the teachers. Marshall’s learnJustin Kline ing lab and teachers’ lounge areas have been remodeled and upgraded in a process Marshall Middle School staff and City Pointe Church pastor Scott McIntosh got together at the school Tuesday to unveil the that took nearly 500 man hours to com- new and improved teachers’ lounge and learning lab. plete. The project was funded and created by City Pointe Church. Ellen Lynch, furniture, decor and amenities, motiva- often helps out giving away school supplies This Saturday, Marshall’s IB staff will the church’s administrative assistant, tional posters and plenty of coffee to keep to students, creating “blessing boxes” for team up with those from Lincoln Elemendesigned the areas. City Pointe linked up the teachers going, a pair of rocking mas- faculty, donating meals and more when it tary and Strawberry Crest High, along with with MTZ Paint & Home Repair and Lar- sage chairs in front of an electronic fire- can. The church tackles an end-of-year other organizations in Marshall and around ry Bauer Handyman Service to make the place and a device charging station. The project annually and this became its latest the community, to do some “beautificavisions into realities. They took care of teachers’ lounge got a fresh coat of paint, effort. In February, City Pointe donated tion” work outside. everything so Marshall wouldn’t have to. tables, coffee stations, banners and post- $5,000 that it raised to Marshall for the “I love churches that make a practical ers, a recycling bin, decor and touches of project. difference,” Pastor Scott McIntosh said ambiance that make it a warmer, more “So many times, a lot of the faculty is Tuesday. “So many churches, their very homey space than it was. overlooked in a lot of different events that best is inside the church. But I think when “This is gonna be the year when stress go on in schools,” teacher Stanley Glover the Lord looks at the church, He looks for is the highest for teachers, so it’s the per- said. “To go ahead and show, ‘Hey, we care your very best to be outside the church fect time to come in and be a part of this,” about you, too. We want to uplift you,’ and in the community. That’s why we’re McIntosh said. “We know that our teachers when the teachers come back and see some so honored to partner with you guys.” matter. It’s stressful. And the better they change, it makes a huge difference. We feel The learning lab, which is a space teach- do, the better we all do.” like, ‘I am appreciated. I am loved.’” ers can use for lesson planning purposes, is Marshall and City Pointe are no strangers The church oversaw the redesign process now a much more inviting space with new to working with each other, as the church and got to work after the school approved everything. On Tuesday, a handful of faculty members came out to get the first look at the new and improved teachers’ spaces and loved what they saw. McIntosh said a time-lapse video of the 500-hour process will be posted to City Pointe’s social media accounts next week for anyone who wants to watch. “Everyone that I ran into was smiling Justin Kline and chipper, the kids that you had out here working and your family, it’s a real labor of Teacher Stanley Glover relaxes in one of the love and you can tell it was something they learning lab’s new massage chairs. enjoyed doing,” principal Dennis Mayo said.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

FIRST CALL THANKS FIRST RESPONDERS WITH 24-HOUR EVENT The church spent all of July 24 giving back to local police, firefighters and other responders with free food, drinks and love on and off its campus.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Dr. Daniel Middlebrooks, pastor of First Call First Responder Church, believes there’s never a bad time to thank first responders for their hard work. There are only so many hours in the day to do so, but he and his church family used all of the hours July 24 to do it. “It’s just our way of being able to say ‘We appreciate what y’all do,’” Middlebrooks said. “There are many of us that work 9 to 5, but the reason we’re able to do that is because we have so many others that work 24/7. We’re able to sleep at night because they work all throughout the night. It’s a tremendous way to have one day where we can say ‘Thank you.’” First Call and Chaplaincy Care, Inc. members started at 6 a.m., when they picked up breakfast from Fred’s Market and delivered it to personnel at the FBI headquarters in Tampa. They kept traveling to police and fire departments and more to deliver food throughout the day, including a stop at the TECO Expo Hall at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds to feed the newest Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office graduates. All first responders were also invited to the church’s campus, 1510 Cre Road, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for free lunch prepared by members of the congregation and by Chef Keith Ware and his Umami Smoke food truck staff. The church’s fel-

lowship hall is no stranger to visits from first responders — Middlebrooks calls it a “spiritual substation” where they can come for a safe space to work, eat, sleep or do whatever they need to do — but it was full of life and celebration for them on July 24. “We just wanted to do that here at the church and through our organization, Chaplaincy Care, to provide lunch for them, to give them a place to sit and eat and also to enjoy the day God’s given us. When we can enjoy the day, we can enjoy the preciousness of life that comes with it.” Middlebrooks said more than 360 first responders were taken care of that day.

Photos courtesy of First Call

First Call and Chaplaincy Care Inc. served hundreds of first responders on July 24.

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KIWANIS LENDS HELPING HAND TO STUDENTS IN NEED

STUFF THE BUS

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The Kiwanis’ Stuff the Bus project has changed thousands of lives over the past decade as the group expanded its program to get book bags and school supplies into the hands of local students. This year, the stakes are even higher. As the U.S. continues to grapple with the eversurging COVID-19 pandemic, the upcoming school year has placed immeasurable stress on families and educators alike. “We do this because of our passion for the kids,” Sharon Moody, Kiwanis member and organizer of the event, said. “With everything going on in the world now with the pandemic, I’m quite sure that everyone — the teachers, the parents and the students — would appreciate every little bit of help they can get.” Steve Hurley always allows the organization to use a large room at Stingray Chevrolet for storage and the assembly of the bags.

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using GarageBand and other Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) programs. “That was when I really wanted to make my own,” Stanley said. “I started experimenting a little bit, but it wasn’t until 2016 that I really started to dive in and make music. 2017 is when I released my first song, “Going Under.” That song was more of a radio-friendly pop song. Then I started to develop my own style, making music I wanted to hear personally, which is more of ephemeral, atmospheric synthpop. It was all because of ‘Fancy.’” He didn’t have to look too far to find a name, though his first choice was unavailable. “Augustine is my middle name,” Stanley said. “I couldn’t use my last name because there’s already a well-known musician named Michael Stanley. There’s another artist named Michael Augustine so I used the Latin æ to stylize my name. I’m also a lover of the Latin language. Having that, it’s so aesthetic.” Besides Charli XCX, Stanley cites The Weeknd, Dua Lipa, Isaac Dunbar and Dorian Electra as other important influences on the Michæl Augustine sound. Stanley’s previous release, “My Heart Pulses,” was released in late February. The idea for “Ventro Parlais” first sparked in late June and Stanley said he wrote, recorded and mastered the EP within three days, not wanting the ideas to slip away from him. “What I really love about making music is that when I feel inspired, everything just rolls out super quickly and I try to get it all out before I hit a roadblock,” he said. He’s also not resting on his laurels anytime soon. Stanley has written two other songs in the last two weeks and plans to release one featuring Gemma “soon.” “Ventro Parlais” will be available on all major streaming services.

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For Michael Stanley, making music is both an outlet for his creativity and a bond with his siblings. Stanley, who goes by Michæl Augustine, has been making electronic music for the better part of four years now and has often weaved the voices of his sister Gemma and brother Anthony (“Ace”) into his pop-inspired works. Stanley has recently gotten more comfortable with another singing voice — his own — and created a new EP set to release this Friday. “Ventro Parlais” is a three-song release with one instrumental track, opener and tone-setter “Heaven.” It’s followed by the title track, which Stanley said is is about a once-thriving relationship “that ended with the people not on speaking terms,” and “Singing in the Rain” both closes the EP and covers the closure of moving on from that relationship. Stanley said the EP was inspired by his sister’s experiences. Though it’s not the first time Stanley has sung on one of his releases, he said he’s put more work into improving his singing since he recorded singles like “Pop Off,” “Spooky Season” and “Free Me.” “Gemma and I collaborate on a lot of songs together,” Stanley said. “On this EP it’s just myself, which is new for me. I’ve gotten more comfortable with my singing voice. I’ve been trying to teach myself how to breathe better with singing.” Stanley’s music is heavily influenced by Charli XCX, who first captured his attention in the song “Fancy” with Iggy Azalea. Though he already had a musical background on the piano, that song became a tastemaker for him and inspired him to try his own hand on the computer

287396-1

Michael Stanley, who uses the name Michæl Augustine for his musical projects, is releasing his “Ventro Parlais” EP on Friday. SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

On the morning of the big event, volunteers from the Plant City High School Key Club, Kiwanis Club members and the Gibbs family worked with tables upon tables of pens, pencils, highlighters, composition notebooks, paper and other necessary items. The routine is down to a science at this point. Volunteers grabbed backpacks from tables labeled for each school. They filled and returned them, then picked up another. In a matter of hours, all 1,250 book bags were filled with more than 40 going to each school. This year, Unity In The Community donated $10,000 to the Kiwanis Club of Plant City for the Stuff The Bus project. The backpacks will be delivered to 28 schools in Area 5 on Aug. 3 by Kiwanis volunteers. The schools know which of its students are most in need and the guidance counselors are in charge of distributing to said students. Moody said if you are in need of a book bag, you can go to the guidance counselor when the school year starts and request one until they run out.

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

HYPERPOP FROM PLANT CITY JUSTIN KLINE

The annual Stuff the Bus project was held Monday morning at Stingray Chevrolet. The group will send 1,250 book bags filled with supplies to 28 local schools.

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JULY 30, 2020

SPORTS

COX LEAVES LEGACY OF LOVE

Arthur Cox, a Plant City High School football star who made it to the National Football League, was loved dearly by those who didn’t have to line up across from him on the field. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Quick Hits JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FHSAA PUSHES BACK FALL SPORTS RETURN DATE Last Thursday’s FHSAA Board of Directors meeting wrapped up far quicker than the nearly five-hour emergency meeting three days prior, and the group decided this time to make more time for data. The board passed a motion to move the date fall sports teams could resume formal practices from Monday to Aug. 24 with an 11-4 margin. The motion, which was proposed by Doug Dodd, also included a provision to have the board meet again in person during the week of Aug. 10 to examine new data gathered by the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) and then determine how best to proceed. Teams will still be able to hold conditioning and workout activities in the meantime, just as they’ve been doing. Though Monday was initially supposed to be the earliest date in which teams could start practicing again if they wished to, board members in favor of the postponement cited school districts pushing back their own classroom return dates and the FHSAA itself not providing official guidance to superintendents and athletic directors as reasons to hit the pause button. The FHSAA and SMAC will examine COVID-19 data in the coming weeks and create said guidance to give athletic departments what Chris Patricca said they have been requesting for some time now. The four dissenters of the vote were concerned that the guidelines would be misinterpreted by schools as FHSAAmandated requirements and preferred more local control over when athletic programs should be able to return.

REGISTER FOR 2020-21 LHSHL SEASON Hockey players interested in playing for Durant High School’s team in the Lightning High School Hockey League can register now for the upcoming 2020-21 season. The season will include 22 regularseason games with 20 hours of practice ice. More than 600 players are expected to fill 20 varsity rosters. The cost to register is $50 and the process can be completed online at lightninghighschoolhockeyleague.sportngin.com/ register/form/502300294.

“He was just an all-around beautiful person,” Lisa King, his significant other, said. “I thank God for the love that he gave me. And I was happy to be a part of his world, his life, his family.” “The Beast,” “The Big Beer Truck,” “King Arthur” or whatever football fans near and far wanted to call him was, to hear friends and family tell it, a gentle giant who got more out of taking care of people in his life than he did out of throwing ferocious blocks on NFL legends like Jack Youngblood. Cox gave back to those who raised him, those who grew up with him and those who stuck with him through thick and thin. He loved dancing and cooking and doing whatever he could to put a smile on someone’s face. Cox and his nine siblings grew up in Plant City. His father died when he was young, leaving mom Minnie Lee Cox to raise them all in a role as, Cox once told the Los Angeles Times, “a mom and a dad.” The kids teamed up to help with chores and did pretty much everything else together. Cox’s brother, Thomas Hudson, said he was a good kid who avoided conflict off the field whenever possible. “Everything was good with him,” Hudson said. “He didn’t like arguing, fussing, no kind of misunderstanding. He would get up and leave, wouldn’t involve himself with that. On the field, he was different. He was ‘The Beast.’ He’s mean. He was king.” There were several great athletes in his family, but Cox was the standout. He played tight end at Plant City High School and used his size to his advantage, becoming an excellent blocker and eventually getting his name and picture in the local news on a regular basis. “They used to say he’d run around most of the time with his helmet off because he knocked it off running down that field,” King said. “He was just that big. To be as big and agile as he was, it was unreal. He could do a handstand, as big as he is.” Cox went on to play college ball at Texas Southern University in Houston, which is also the alma mater of New York Giants legend Michael Strahan, and won over his new teammates with his intensity and dedication. “He was awesome and everything he did, he wanted to be the best at it,” teammate Bruce Green said. “Shooting pool, running, catching, the whole nine — he was very determined to be the best that he could be from the start. That’s one of the things I talked to him about a few weeks before he passed. I let him know, ‘The thing I love the most about you, Cox, after your injury in college you fought back so hard through all of the adversity and then you actually made it.’ That grit, that determination, that focus was one of the most important things I ever got from him.” Though Cox was not selected in the 1983 NFL Draft, he signed with the Atlanta Falcons and quickly worked his way into the

starting role at tight end. He played there until 1987, then with the San Diego Chargers from 1988 to 1991. During that time, Cox established himself as a man not to be messed with. Billy Joe Tolliver, his quarterback in San Diego from 1989 to 1990, once told the LA Times “Arthur Cox is tougher than a wood hauler’s ass.” Though his tough-guy persona defined the narrative about Cox in print, he gained the love and respect of many teammates and coaches just as he had done in Plant City and Houston. Many former NFL teammates even made the trek to Plant City for the July 25 graveside service and kept in touch with King. “He was a very meek and kind man,” King said. “I can tell from all the people from the NFL that have displayed their kindness and love upon me since this happened. Some of them, I’d never met before. But they knew of me because he said to them, ‘Whatever happens, take care of my baby Lisa.’” The Chargers waived Cox during the 1991 season and he finished that year playing in two games with the Miami Dolphins and in three with the Cleveland Browns. He retired that year at age 30 with 137 games played and 170 catches for 1,758 yards and 10 touchdowns. Cox eventually returned to Florida and settled back down in Plant City. Though he just spent nine seasons in the NFL and made good money in the process, those around him said he was still the same guy they grew up with. “He went through every level and he was still the same person,” Jeff Brown said. “Never changed. I never saw a bad vibe in his body. He gave whatever he could give.” Giving became a major part of Cox’s life after the NFL. Receiving saved it. Cox battled kidney troubles for many years and got a much-needed transplant to get off of dialysis. Life with a new kidney also showed people what Cox was made of. Most people who get a living donor kidney get 10 to 12 years out of it, according to the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center of Boston. Cox got 16 years. “He was a very neat and clean person because he knew what he had to do to stay healthy,” Hudson said. True to form, he had volunteered in the past to be an organ donor in the event of his death. Cox was close with many of his teammates, particularly a group of his fellow TSU Tigers including Green, Kellye Kelley and Elvis Jones. They called him “P.C.,” short for Plant City, and either lived as roommates in the TSU dormitories or were around enough to be like honorary roommates. Whatever you’d call it, they consider it a brotherhood that never tapered off, even when Cox went pro. He never forgot about those guys. “If he had it, it was just like it was yours,” Kelley said. “That’s just the type of guy he was. He liked to see people happy. That was the most important thing to him, making people happy and making them smile.” That dorm was also a great place to be for anyone who wanted a real meal, thanks to a

competitive streak between Cox and Jones that also never ended. “He thought he could cook and I thought I could cook, so we would have cooking competitions,” Jones said. “Even to this day, last time he was at my house he cooked a case of oxtails. I did some hot wings. Forty years later. Cooking in college, we had hot plates… everybody in the whole dormitory would be knocking on the door. You had to be VIP to get in.” Cox loved to mentor young athletes, especially on the football field, and enjoyed visiting schools to interact with the kids. “He used to say ‘If you make good grades, I’ll come out to your school,’” King said. “He did that with one of his nephews who was in the fifth grade, and the nephew didn’t think he was gonna show up. To this day, that nephew still has that poster.” Cox had two daughters, Ebonee Miller and Artesha Cox. Both remember him fondly as a gentle giant. “My dad was always bubbly, smiling, happy, cool,” Miller said. “He was a good dad. He was always a great provider for me in everything I had to do going on. I couldn’t even imagine a lot of stuff without my dad being around… we went to Disney World and I had these shoes that rubbed up against the back and gave me blisters. He would carry me through the park because I was being so dramatic, I would act like I could not walk or do anything. He carried me through the park and I was a little princess at Disney World.” Artesha didn’t grow up with her father physically around for much of her life, but said it was all love when they finally got together. “On simple rides to the store, I’d sit there singing and hear someone else singing, I’d look over and it was like looking in a mirror,” she said. “He showed me old videos of him dancing on the field and I just remembered growing up, my grandma would always tell me I danced and looked just like him. Once I finally saw him, it was like looking in a mirror.” And when Artesha introduced her dad to her daughter, she said Cox was as happy about being a grandpa as anyone could ever be. “Coming to Florida and introducing my daughter to him… the amount of love that we felt was through the roof,” she said. “I’ve never felt that before. The love he gave my daughter, the attention, their bond — I couldn’t have asked for anything better. My daughter loves football because of him. She liked sports anyway but listening to him tell her everything, she definitely grasped everything he said. We went to Chuck E. Cheese and there were the claw machines. She saw this little plastic football she had to get for my dad. We spent $15 trying to get it. He would toss that football all around the house.” Cox, born Feb. 5, 1961, died on July 12 at age 59. His viewing and wake were held at St. Luke Independent Church, his home church, on July 24. The graveside service was held at Garden of Peace Cemetery on July 25.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

DOCTOR’S NOTE: SEEKING RELIEF FOR CONSTANT SINUS PROBLEMS Do you experience runny nose, nasal congestion and/or post-nasal drip?

Do you experience any of the following symptoms? Runny nose Nasal congestion Post-nasal drip, clearing of the throat

If you answered yes, you’re not alone and there are multiple minimally invasive procedures that provide long-lasting relief, right in an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist’s office! That runny nose you experience could be due to a nasal disease. Nasal diseases may sound intimidating, but recent technological developments allow physicians to quickly and easily relieve your symptoms for good! Did you know that over 30 million Americans suffer from non-allergic rhinitis? This condition includes symptoms like chronic sneezing and a congested, drippy nose. A few potential causes of non-allergic rhinitis stem from airborne pollutants, some medications, changes in weather or underlying health problems. For some, management with medications and sprays are inadequate. Here are two minimally invasive procedures for long-lasting relief: ClariFix® uses cryotherapy (cold therapy) to freeze a small area that is often responsible for frustrating nasal symptoms. It is long-lasting and balances out the nerves that are telling the nose to drip, run, or swell. Clarifix® interrupts the brain’s signals and stops the source of symptoms. Most patients begin to see improvement between 2 and 6 weeks post-treatment. RhinAer® uses proprietary, temperature controlled radiofrequency technology to relieve chronic nasal conditions. With therapeutic benefits occurring at 60 degrees celsius (140 degrees fahrenheit), it offers durable, tissue-sparing results. Rhi-

nAer has clinically proven, durable results that give patients a significant decrease in symptoms and an overall higher quality of daily life.

Are you a candidate for the RhinAer® procedure? Find out by completing a questionnaire on the FENTA website at floridaentandallergy.com/our-services/ nose-sinus/nasal-sinus-disease/rhinaer/. Both of the above procedures are FDA approved, minimally invasive, performed in the office and covered by most insurance companies. To find out if these procedures could help you feel better and live a happier, tissue-free life, call Florida E.N.T. & Allergy at 813-879-8045 today to discuss your options! By offering same/next day appointments, their board certified physicians will find the best treatment plan for your needs and help you get better fast!

The physicians of Florida E.N.T. & Allergy have served the Tampa Bay community for over 40 years. The board certified physicians & doctors of audiology have completed extensive education and clinical training. They also have specialized training in their area(s) of expertise. From pediatric allergies to fitting hearing aids, our caring and experienced providers specialize in ear, nose and throat care for the entire family using comprehensive, cutting edge technologies.

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

ALL-NEW CX-30 EASES NICELY INTO THE MAZDA LINEUP NITISH S. RELE

It’s an all-new vehicle and, coming from Head and leg room is adequate for adults Mazda, it is more than welcome. After all, and, best of all, is the 60/40 split rear who doesn’t want to enjoy a fun-to-drive seat, which folds flat via a lever release in and energetic ride keeping in mind the the trunk. “Zoom-Zoom” emotion of motion phrase Included in the CX-30 are dual front made so popular by the Japanese carmakand side airbags, side curtain airbag, er? Best of all, the CX-30 isn’t replacing dynamic stability and traction controls, any vehicle in the lineup. Instead, the four-wheel antilock brakes, hill launch fresh SUV fills a slot between the subcom- assist, blind spot monitor, lane-keep pact CX-3 and the bigger CX-5. assist and departure warning, rear-cross Seating five in comfort and style, this traffic alert, front/rear crumple zones and sporty ride is equipped with a 2.5-liter stabilizer bars, rearview camera, threeinline-4 cylinder engine developing point safety belts for all, tire pressure 186 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 186 monitoring system and daytime running pounds-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm lights. The G-Vectoring Control Plus while coupled to a six-speed auto gear(enables driver to handle emergency situbox. Whether you choose front-wheel or ations or untoward road conditions with all-wheel drive, the compact crossover more accurate steering inputs) comes is equipped with the direct-injection at no extra cost. And the i-ACTIV AWD Skyactiv, which uses a torque boost via works along with G-Vectoring to control a high compression ratio to increase fuel torque distribution between front/rear economy. Want to have some excitement wheels. on the road? Just turn on the sport mode Like its siblings in the CX fold, we are and step on the pedal. sure that the CX-30 also will carve a niche Up front, a matte-finish grille with the in the competitive compact crossover segMazda emblem is flanked by horizontal, ment. It delivers a powerful performance, trapezoidal eagle-eyed LED headlights ample cargo/passenger room, sportiness and daytime running lights. The welland commendable fuel mileage. crafted, intelligently-designed and simple cabin conveys a classy and tailored look. CX-30 PREMIUM (AWD) Pleasing to the eye is a seven-inch TFT instrument cluster of analog speedomTires: 215/55/R19 eter, tachometer, fuel/temp and driver Suspension: MacPherson information center. The 8.8-inch screen strut front, torsion beam axle rear for navigation, phone and audio is easy to Steering: power rack and pinion use via a commander control knob on the Wheelbase: 104.5 inches center console. Length: 173 inches Our top-level Premium arrived with Weight: 3,408 pounds standard dual auto a/c, leather seats, Fuel capacity: 12.7 gallons shifter and steering column, power City: 25 mpg moon roof and lift gate, push-button Highway: 32 mpg start, heated front seats, paddle shifters, Base price: $29,600 metallic-finish trim, power driver’s seat, Web site: www.mazdausa.com Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities and a 12-speaker Bose sound system.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

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We asked teachers on Facebook: This school year is going to be unlike any other. How are you approaching and preparing for it? “I’m actually excited to see what this year brings. I think it will be nice to have a smaller class size and will push many of us to explore new avenues as far as assignments and instruction.” — Kaylea Layton, Advantage Academy of Hillsborough “Lots of prayers!! Don’t know how to prepare since we don’t know what the year will bring.” — Lynn Becmer, Jackson Elementary “I’m a paraprofessional at Plant City High School. I am keeping a positive attitude, staying away from negativity as much as possible. There are a lot of unknowns, but I do know that I’m ready to do whatever is needed for the well-being of my students and co-workers. I’m trusting in the sovereignty and faithfulness of God.” — Casey Barnes, Plant City High School

“I am approaching this year with the attitude that I will do what ever is needed of me to help our students learn, grow and achieve… ‘I do not know what the school year will bring, but I do know that I will bring my best to the school year.’” — Jeannette Teeden, Plant City High School

“Approaching it like I’m walking on egg shells! I haven’t done any planning or setting up because I don’t know what is going to happen. I usually have the classroom set up and all the students materials ready for them by now!! I really do miss being in the classroom and my kiddos!!!” — Melissa Nation, Jackson Elementary

“My wife and I are both teachers here in PC and we’re expecting our first child in a couple weeks. We’re very concerned for the unknowns COVID will bring.” — Andrew Young, Jackson Elementary

“I’m PUMPED to go back to some sense of normalcy even if it isn’t the ideal situation. I’m staying positive and flexible!” — Megan Donini, Wilson Elementary “I’ve taken lots of classes this summer so I can be as prepared as possible. But I am maintaining a flexible and positive attitude. Can’t wait for a new beginning.” — Aviva Baker, Jackson Elementary

Education that is exceptional and affordable. Online. In person. On your schedule.

Find your community. Register now for fall classes!

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

John “Johnny” Summerall, 64, of Auburndale, born in Plant City on June 19, 1956, entered into eternal rest on July 21, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

William Rivera William Rivera, 77, of Plant City, born in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico on Dec. 13, 1942, entered into eternal rest on July 23, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Scott Lee Pollak Ruben Castillo Ruben Castillo, 60, of Plant City, born in Toledo, Ohio on Sept. 14, 1959, entered into eternal rest on July 21, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Scott Lee Pollak, 53, of Lithia, born on May 9, 1967 in Long Island, New York, entered into eternal rest on July 10, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Nora Ellen Fulford Adams

Nora Ellen Fulford Adams, of Plant City, born on Oct. 14, 1944, entered into eternal rest on July 26, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Rita Dianne (Harrison) Green Rita Dianne (Harrison) Green, 73, of Lakeland, returned to her heavenly home on July 25, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Betty J. Payne Betty J. Payne, 86, of Lithia, born on March 7, 1934 in Carrollton, Mississippi, entered into eternal rest on July 24, 2020. Joyce Nanette Dowdy Sheffield, Expressions of condolence at 52, of Plant City, born in Tampa on May 23, 1968, entered into eternal HopewellFuneral.com. rest on July 20, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Joyce Nanette Dowdy Sheffield

Betty Berry

Tim DeVane

Ms. Betty Berry’s wings flew her to be with the Lord on July 19, 2020 at Solaris Healthcare. Funeral Services were held July 25, 2020 at Antioch MB Church Bealsville, FL. Burial was held at Bealsville Cemetery. Winslow Honors Funeral Chapel was in charge.

Tim DeVane, 67, of Lakeland, passed away on July 21, 2020. Services were held July 25, 2020 at Shiloh Baptist Church, 905 West Terrace Drive, Plant City, FL 33563. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

Roger St. Pierre Sr. Roger St. Pierre Sr., 85, of Plant HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM City, passed away on July 26, 2020. Linda Diane A Memorial Mass with be held Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2020 at Correll 11:00 a.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church, 1104 N. Alexander Linda Diane Correll, known to St., Plant City, FL 33563. many as Grandma Snuggie, Masks are required. 79, of Plant City, passed away Online condolences may on July 27, 2020, surrounded be left for the family at www. by her loving family. haught.care. The family will receive friends Thursday, July 30, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM City, FL 33563. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

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YOUR COMMUNITY FUNERAL HOME AND CEMETERY. FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1971 HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

OBITUARIES

John ‘Johnny’ Summerall

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

Taking care of each other is what

PlantCityObserver.com

Taking care of each other is what Joseph R. Arzberger Margaret Marie

him during his attempted recovcommunity

Earl W. Taylor

OBITUARIES

community

ery from an auto accident. A memorial service will be held Earl W. Taylor, of Lakeland, was Joseph R. Arzberger, 91, of ValBrantley at a later date. born on Feb. 6, 1932 and died at rico, passed away on Friday, July Condolences befamilies offered the age of 88 on July 14, 2020. 17, 2020. He was born on July 8, Margaret Marie Brantley, 97, we’re dedicatedmay to helping create aat W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, States compassionate care since 1896. www.wellsmemorial.com. He served in theAs United 1929 in Maspeth, Long Island, passed away on Sunday, July celebrates the life it represents. your Dignity Memorial professionals, we’re dedicated to helping families W E ’ RE P RO U D TO S E RV E our community Air Force and did most of hisService en- Guarantee > National Plan Transferability New York. 19, 2020. She was born increate a > 100% unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. > Bereavement listment in Bermuda and Sumter,Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® He was a United States Army Arcadia on Aug. 6, 1942. celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, > 100% Service Guarantee Fond > National Plan Transferability SC. Upon his being discharged Veteran. memories and expresR > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® from the service he used hisProudly ben-supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be Rat www.WellsMemorial. efits to enter Eastern Michigan sions ofwe’re sympathy may be shared shared dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community Proudly supporting com the Plantfor Citythe Strawberry Festival.family. unique and meaningful memorial thatfor truly with personal, compassionate care since College where he received his deat 1896. www.WellsMemorial.com Brantley celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, gree in Business Administration the Arzberger family. > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® and Accounting. He interned with WELLSMEMORIAL.COM an accounting firm to learn the R WELLSMEMORIAL.COM business and work on his CPA Wells MeMorial & event Center Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. PlanT CiTy license. He attended the Univer- 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Wells MeMorial & event Center sity of Michigan and earned his PlanT CiTy Ann Gagliano Master’s Degree. He later cre813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Lee Totherow ated a CPA firm in Ann Arbor, MI. Ann Gagliano, 62, of Lakeland, WELLSMEMORIAL.COM He was a resident of Twin Palms passed away on Monday, July 13, Lee Totherow, 89, of Plant City, Mobile Park in Lakeland, FL for 2020. Ann was born Feb. 26, 1958 passed away at home on Sunday, Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy many years along Wwith his wife, in Brooklyn, New York. July 26, 2020. He was born May we’re dedicated to helping families create a 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community we’re dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ RE P RO U D TO S E RV E our community Edith Elizabeth unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since Fond 1896. JoAnn Taylor. memories and expres27,1896. 1931.unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, He was preceded in death by sions of sympathy may be shared Walston Fond celebrates memories and expres> 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability his parents, Nelle and Arthur at www.WellsMemorial.com sions may beCompassion sharedHelpline® at www. > The Compassion Helpline® for > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The > Bereavement Travel Assistance Taylor, his siblings, Rosemary the Gagliano family. WellsMemorial.com for the Edith Elizabeth Walston, 51, R R Bodley and Arthur Taylor, his wife Totherow family. of Mulberry, passed away on Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. JoAnn Taylor and his daughter, Tuesday, July 21, 2020. Edith was Julie Taylor. born Sept. 14, 1968 in Sarasota. dedicated to helping create a W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community He is survived by his son, Fond we’re memories andfamilies expresunique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. Stuart Taylor, granddaughters, sions ofcelebrates sympathy may be shared the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, WELLSMEMORIAL.COM WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Brooke and Ava Taylor of Bloomat www.WellsMemorial.com > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability for > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® field Hills, MI, and his siblings, Wells MeMorial & event Center the Walston family. Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy PlanT CiTy Marjorie Pope of Madison, WI, R 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. David and Kay Taylor of Boise, ID, Pablo Cruz Richard and Judy Taylor of Plant City, FL as well as numerous Pablo Cruz, 69, of Plant City, nieces and nephews and their passed away on Sunday, July families. 19, 2020. Pablo was born June 7, WELLSMEMORIAL.COM He was a Christian man who 1951 in Brownsville, Texas. we’re dedicated to helping families createWells a W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community MeMorial & event Center helped the downtrodden. He memories and expresunique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since Fond 1896. PlanT CiTy celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, created a Foundation to benefit sions of sympathy may be shared 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability people in need with the> Bereavement funds he Travel Assistance at www.WellsMemorial.com > The Compassion Helpline® for accumulated during his life. He the Cruz family. R was a member of the First BapProudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. tist Church of Plant City, FL and ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND belonged to a number of wildlife associations in Michigan. He was EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES an avid U of M supporter having a WELLSMEMORIAL.COM mailbox like the U of M helmet. We thank the staff at Lakeland Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy Regional Health that cared for

is all about.

Taking care of each other is what

community

is all about.

Freddie Wayne Ayers, 67, of Plant City, passed away Friday, April 17th, 2020. Freddie was born in Palatka Florida, to parents Alfred Ayers and Lueginia (Morris) Ayers. He worked in the construction business as a demolition specialist. Freddie was preceded in death by his parents Alfred Joseph Ayers Sr. and Lueginia (Morris) Ayers, siblings; Patsy Ruth Gilner, Edward Arthur Ayers, and Genevieve Gertrude Griffis. Survivors include; his loving wife Joyce, children; John Ayers, Sabrina Slane, Freddie Sage, and Eugene Sage, siblings; Jesse Charles Ayers, Nina Ann Douglas, Evelyn Marie Fowler, Alfred Joseph Ayers Jr., Alma Jean Keating, Robert Eugene Ayers, William Thomas Ayers, and Gerald Dean Ayers and nine grandchildren. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2020, at 1:30 p.m. at Hodges Family Funeral Home 301 Chapel, Dade City, FL. Arrangements by Hodges Family Funeral Home Dade City, FL.

Taking care of each other is what

community