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THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
VARREA MAP AMENDMENT
DRAWS FURTHER CONCERNS FROM NEIGHBORING RESIDENTS Varrea asked for another map amendment from city commissioners. The public hearing led to many concerns from residents on road safety and flooding in the area.
BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
The Varrea Planned Development District once again stirred up intense community input Monday evening when residents voiced their opposition
SFBH
to a map amendment for the community. The transmittal public hearing was held for Varrea after the upcoming development district asked city commissioners to transmit the map amendment to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and
center, hence the need for the map amendment.
SEE PAGE 5
ANNOUNCES PLANS TO RELOCATE
BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
It appears South Florida Baptist Hospital intends to move its services to the other side of town after announcing its proposed new location is off Exit 22 of I-4 east of the East Sam Allen Road and North Park Road intersection.
other state and local agencies for their review and comment. Varrea is a massive community that is planned for the other side of I-4 near the southwest corner of Charlie Taylor and East Knights Griffin roads. The applicant wants to expand its planned mixed-use activity
After months of rumors floating around the community, South Florida Baptist Hospital finally announced it intends to relocate. The hospital said the move is being made to “improve access to health care services for the community it serves.” SFBH is currently located on Alexander Street. It’s boxed in by what is arguably the busiest street in town with restaurants on one side, an office plaza on the other and homes directly behind it. It opened in 1953 and has had 12 major additions, renovations and expansions since then. Further growth is difficult to achieve, so the new proposed location, off of Exit 22 of I-4 east of the East Sam Allen Road and North
Courtesy of South Florida Baptist Hospital
Park Road intersection, would allow such growth to happen. SFBH said the proposed location is highly visible and in a high-growth area. The new building’s plans feature up to 150 private patient rooms with the option of adding another 30 in a future expansion. An 85,000 square-foot medical office building is also proposed at the new location. This “will be convenient for both patients and physicians who prefer to work near the hospital.” “We are committed to providing extraordinary care to our patients and are excited about the opportunity to build a new hospital to extend this mission as we continue to serve our patients in Plant City and the surrounding communities,” South Florida Baptist Hospital President Karen Kerr said.
The project is currently in the very early planning stages. Everything has yet to be approved by the city, but SFBH said construction is expected to begin in summer 2021 and should take about 30 months to complete. The project has an estimated cost of $326 million. “After 67 years, we have run out of room to expand the hospital on its present site,” Kerr said. “Also, retrofitting the hospital’s infrastructure to meet the growing technological advances in health care solutions is often an expensive and challenging option. Because of that, we feel that to better meet the growing needs of our community, we need to relocate and build a new hospital.”
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
NEWS BRIEFS
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Deputy-involved shooting in Dover The suspect in an Aug. 6 shooting in Seffner died Aug. 7 in Dover after shooting at Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office deputies. Nicholas Kocolis, 51, was identified as the suspect in an incident that occurred at approximately 5:30 p.m. Aug. 6. According to HCSO, Kocolis approached a truck and shot its driver twice before forcing the passenger, who is Kocolis’s ex-girlfriend, into the driver’s seat. Kocolis got in the passenger seat and ordered her to drive, but she soon crashed the truck into a water-filled culvert and attempted to get away from Kocolis. A Good Samaritan let the woman into their vehicle and Kocolis shot at it, hitting the vehicle and causing the driver to crash on Williams Road. Kocolis fled the scene. HCSO located Kocolis shortly after midnight on Aug. 7 at 12902 Newsome Road in Dover and attempted to arrest him in a parking lot. Kocolis fired multiple shots at Sgt. Jason Roberts and deputies Michael Vegeto and Derrick Shea, who were then forced to return fire. None of the officers
were hit or injured and Kocolis died at the scene from his injuries. According to HCSO, none of the deputies have previously been involved in a deadly use of force incident. Roberts has been with HCSO since 2003, Vegeto since 2013 and Shea since 2008. The Sheriff’s Office also said the shooting victim driving the truck was “alert and in stable condition” at a hospital following the incident. “We are extremely thankful that none of our deputies were hit. This very dangerous individual is off the streets and he will not be able to victimize another person in this community,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “We believe this incident stems from domestic violence. I encourage anyone who may be the victim of abuse to reach out to one of the many resources available in Hillsborough County, such as the Spring of Tampa Bay at 813-247-SAFE (813-2477233).”
Winn-Dixie hosting fundraiser for American Heart Association Southeastern Grocers and the American Heart Association have teamed up to host
a fundraising event for the fight against heart disease and strokes. Through the Life Is Why We Give campaign, Winn-Dixie shoppers can choose to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar or make a contact-free donation from now through Aug. 25. Money raised from the drive will go toward research, educational programs and services and to help survivors and their families. SEG said this fundraiser is part of its Positive Change Round Up campaign “to help minimize the impact of the current nationwide coin shortage while also providing support to various charitable organizations committed to serving individuals and families in need.” According to the AHA, heart disease and stroke are respectively the No. 1 and No. 5 killers of Americans. “The health of our associates, customers and communities is at the heart of our business, especially as the country continues to adapt in the face of the evolving pandemic,” Elizabeth Thompson, EVP and Chief People Officer of Southeastern Grocers, said. “We are proud to stand with the American Heart Association to encourage our neighbors to educate themselves and make their health and well-being a priority. Our customers can support heart and
brain health by rounding up their grocery bills at checkout and together, we will continue the fight against heart disease and stroke to cultivate stronger and healthier communities.”
PC Republican Women’s Club opens new office The Plant City Federated Republican Women’s Club is getting ready to host a grand opening ceremony for its new campaign office, which opened Aug. 6. The office, which will stay open through Nov. 3, is located in the reception area at Land Trucking, 2900 James L. Redman Parkway. A grand opening ceremony will be held from 12 to 2 p.m. this Saturday, Aug. 15, at the office and attendees will have the opportunity to meet local candidates in the upcoming election. Vice President Judy Wise said food will be served, social distancing will be practiced and the wearing of face coverings will be encouraged. For more information, contact Wise at judywise45@gmail.com.
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
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PCPD CHIEF ED DUNCAN ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
Duncan has spent his entire professional life wearing a badge and is finally putting it aside for good when he retires for the second, and final, time this winter. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Chief Ed Duncan has officially announced his intention to retire and Plant City braces to lose what has arguably been one of the most honest and diligent leaders in its history. Duncan has been with the department for six years, but has spent a lifetime in law enforcement. In every agency he’s joined, he led with a reputation of straightforwardness and an expectation of high integrity of all he works with. “I would like to be remembered as a person that is open and honest,” Duncan said. “What you see is what you get. My wife refers to me as a ‘fixer.’ I want to fix things when I see there is a problem. At the end of the day I hope people see me as someone they could trust and that no matter what my rank was, that I was always Ed. I want people to feel comfortable coming to talk to me and I never wanted to appear as uncaring. I believe I’ve accomplished that. I cannot tell you how many people call me on my cell phone when they have a problem or stop me in the street to discuss a concern.” Duncan developed his passion for law enforcement when he was still in high school. He was in a law enforcement enrichment program and by senior year he would spend half of his school day at the Tampa Police Department. After he graduated, the agency offered him a job. He was only 19 years old and stayed with TPD for three years. He said he learned so much in his short period of time there and he was hired by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in February of 1978. Duncan built his career at HCSO and stayed for 34 years before he retired. It was a retirement that was well-earned. His start, ironically, was right here in Plant City’s backyard. While serving on patrol with HCSO he was in charge of the east side of Hillsborough County. He spent long hours patrolling the edge of Plant City and fell in love with the town. His wife was born and raised in the community and in 1986 he finally moved to Plant City. “I’ve always been fond of this town,” Duncan said. “It’s a community that’s a good place to be, a great place to live. There’s a sense of community here that you just don’t see everywhere. I never took that for granted.” While at HCSO, he served under four sheriffs and carved his place into the agency as a SWAT operator. He also served as a tactical commander for some time and continued to rise through the ranks as he further developed his reputation with every position he entered. His niche, he found, was in handling the security of major events. He worked two Super Bowls, numerous presidential events and even the Republican National Convention. With each of those jobs, he said, it is crucial to have a strong collabora-
tive effort with all involved. It’s a policy he has since adopted for every task he’s managed. His initial retirement was sweet. Following nearly 37 years in law enforcement, he was enjoying the time spent with his wife. They love to travel and were taking advantage of the opportunity to do so while still in good health. Duncan was on the slopes in Utah when he was called by former City Manager Greg Horwedel, who informed him PCPD was looking for a new chief. “He asked me if I was tired of retirement yet and I told him I was currently snow skiing, so what did he think?” Duncan said. “But I started to think about it, really think about it and I knew that Plant City was a good department and I thought maybe I could go in there and help in any way I could. I thought that maybe I could help make it even better, to further its reputation. I was only supposed to stay a few years, but those few years have turned into six.” PCPD has been accredited for five prior years and was awarded the excelsior level of accreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation in 2020, making it one of only 58 other law enforcement agencies statewide to obtain the status. PCPD was first accredited in 2005 and never shied away from the challenge of reaccreditation every three years since. The responsibilities of law enforcement have evolved exponentially over the course of his career. Duncan said he continues to be impressed with the caliber of officers he sees coming up through the department. But the responsibilities they are tasked with push them to be the best they can be and to continue to adapt. He sees the major concern of the incoming chief to be to continue to grow the staff. The city of Plant City is expanding so rapidly that it is crucial PCPD has enough officers to properly respond to the growing need. Those officers hired need to fit this community, to have a heart for Plant City, while still being the top caliber of applicants. The bar is high and he said PCPD’s officers need to continue to be able to meet it. “Everybody needs someone to lean on,” Duncan said. “Often we get called when people are on their last days, when they are at their lowest. The way we present ourselves to those people played a role in how the situation develops. We are here to help. I used to get frustrated when police would say, ‘There’s nothing we can do.’ I’ve never wanted our officers to say ‘There’s nothing we can do.’ That’s not in my vocabulary, it’s not in my thought process and it is not permitted in this department. We are better than that, we do better than that.” Partnerships are key to any successful department, Duncan said. Partnerships with other neighboring agencies, with the FBI, with experts in mental health and social services are what will ensure the agency can handle whatever is thrown its way.
The world is changing and the attitude toward law enforcement has changed as well. He believes the answer partly lies in further collaborative partnerships. Police are expected to respond to everything and to be experts in everything. In his opinion, they’ve stepped up to the plate. But he does believe that working with other agencies and organizations, whether that’s social workers or mental health experts, will be the key in further improving responses to those calls. He said he strongly hopes to never see the day when those experts are sent to a call without the protection of law enforcement in case something goes wrong. The number of mental health calls over the course of the past decade has skyrocketed and he believes that law enforcement has to adapt and further expand its knowledge and expertise on the issue so every officer is fully prepared when they respond to a call. Courtesy of Plant City Police Department
Chief Ed Duncan is set to begin his second retirement after putting the badge back on to lead Plant City Police Department for the last six years.
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COPS CORNER
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
PLANT CITY
Observer
This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigated a stolen tag, fraud, DUI, bike theft and more.
Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editor / Sports Editor / Justin Kline JKline@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver.com
JULY 31 ONE THING LEADS TO ANOTHER 100 block of West Ball Street Residential burglary: Suspect(s) entered an unoccupied residence by forcing the front door open and stole one 65-inch TV and one 42-inch TV. At the same address, police found a man had an outstanding warrant for grand theft out of Pasco County and arrested him. The man was taken to Orient Road Jail without incident. CAUGHT IN THE ACT 1800 block of Wilkins Court Vehicle burglary: This complainant saw a male subject rummaging inside their unlocked vehicle around 2:48 a.m. The subject took some loose change and fled the scene on foot. The complainant stated the man wore gloves and all black clothing. A waiver of prosecution was signed.
AUG. 2
entered the construction site overnight, damaged a generator to get to copper wire and then stripped it from the machine.
FEELING DEFLATED 300 block of North Wilder Road Theft: This complainant reported his Champion brand air compressor was stolen from the back of his flatbed truck overnight.
DIRTY MONEY 300 block of West Reynolds Street Fraud: A city accountant reported a citizen who was supposed to get a refund check did not receive it, but the check had been cashed.
TAKEN IDENTITY 3000 block of James L. Redman Parkway Stolen tag: Officers made contact with the complainant, who stated an unknown subject stole the tag from their vehicle.
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returned to the victim and he signed a waiver of prosecution.
AUG. 3 PORCH PIRATE 1900 block of East Timberlane Avenue Stolen package: This complainant told police a package was delivered to his home shortly before noon, but it was stolen sometime afterward.
TRENCH-ERY 3770 block of Fancy Farms Road Burglary: Complainants stated a storage trailer on the above listed property was entered by unknown suspect(s), who stole a Stihl back pack blower, a “Go Ripper” handheld trencher and a back pack sprayer valued at approximately $5,900.
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Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez
scooter and a TV before leaving with $200 cash. The complainant signed a waiver of prosecution
Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver.com
AUG. 6
TO ADVERTISE Call (813) 704-6850
SHOULD HAVE USED THAT KEY 4400 block of Country Hills Boulevard Vehicle burglary: This complainant reported his unlocked vehicle was entered and the suspect(s) stole $65 in cash and a vehicle key.
Advertising / Richard Brame richard@plantcityobserver.com Advertising / Karen Berry kberry@plantcityobserver.com
CONTACT US
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POLE POSITION Thonotosassa Road/ Goldfinch Drive DUI/long form crash: A vehicle driving at a high rate of speed left the roadway northbound on Thonotosassa Road and struck a TECO pole. The driver, who survived the crash, was found to be intoxicated and was arrested for DUI.
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WELCOME HOME? 1010 block of AUG. 1 North Johnson Street Residential burglary: This comTHAT WAS EASY by David Steinberg August 4,plainant 2020 told police suspect(s) COPPER CAPER 1020 block of Ashentree Drive Edited 2700 block of Thonotosassa Road entered their residence while they Theft: This complainant told Feasts mischief: com9 comRed card were at 38 ACROSS Positionforwith This the hospital a brief police his bicycle was stolen by 47Criminal memorating issuer no power? 1 Large plainant, a construction manager, stay. The suspect(s) did not force a known subject, who liquid was later reported an unknown10 suspect to damage a found with the holders bike. The bike was the Exodus “Be right entry but 39managed “Adios!”
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COMMISH
VARREA DEVELOPMENT
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A simple map amendment request led to several comments from the community as local residents voiced concerns about flooding issues near the upcoming Varrea development.
BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
But nothing came. It wasn’t until 2015 that the district picked up steam and it was announced Varrea would become a high-class neighborhood similar in style to Walden Lake and FishHawk. Residents with deep roots in the surrounding agriculture-based properties braced again. The project stalled. However, movement recently began again and residents see the same concerns they had in 2007 are still unaddressed. According to the neighbors, conservation of the natural rural ecosystems has always been a priority but the conversation took on a far more desperate tone in 2016. Flooding began to plague the area, according to several of the speakers including Travis Luttrell, a citizen who lives on Charlie Taylor Road. Itchepackesassa Creek borders one side of the area and Varrea is on the other. The
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Crews began demolishing the old clubhouse at Walden Lake this week in the first step toward the future FLOODING for the property.CONCERNS SPARKS FURTHER
speakers said the roads flood constantly and that has been the cause of several car accidents and injuries. There is a pond If approved, the amendment would allow on one of the properties that will fill and for the consideration of up to 480,035 overflow in any heavy rain and the resisquare feet of neighborhood commercial/ dents are concerned that a development office uses or 917 dwelling units, or even originally slated to have approximate a combination of the two. The designa2,000 homes will exacerbate the issue. tion for the land currently only allows the “We all agree that no one wants to property to have up to 164,031 square feet destroy the country way of life when of neighborhood commercial/office uses development begins,” Luttrell said. “Then or 531 dwelling units or a combination. we all shook hands and you promised Neighboring properties, however, see to protect us using zoning restrictions. routine flooding and residents are conSpecifically Residential 4, which reduces cerned Varrea is not taking their warnings the height of buildings and the lot capaciseriously. ties. Now we were happy to read in your Varrea has a complex past. It spans Imagine 2040 Comprehensive Plan that more than 1,000 ares of pasture land and elected officials wanted to manage growth originally got its approval in 2007. The while reducing urban sprawl. Unfortuplan for the district was modified in 2011 nately, today you are being asked to break and neighboring residents braced for that promise. They want you to manage impact. growth by shoving urban sprawl to the outskirts of Plant City, failing to recognize your rural constituents and their small businesses.” The speakers agreed that they wish to see the development succeed, but the key lies in a compromise. The spokesman for Varrea reminded commissioners there Emergency Emergency are no in-depth plans at this phase of Steam Cleaned Water 24-HR. 24-HR. Water d Steam Cleaned the process. The change cannot be done Steam Cleaned without SWFWMD and other crucial Extractions Extractions 50c per sq.ft. state agencies’ approval. 50c per sq.ft. Storm, Broken Pipes, etc. includes Hallway cleaned free Storm, Broken Pipes, etc. ed free Mayor Rick Lott paused and reminded Water Extraction 24-Hr Service | Carpet Dyeing & Repairs staff and the applicant it was obvious | Carpet Dyeing & Repairs www.AllSaintscc.com there were serious concerns. He said he ntscc.com
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wanted all citizens, whether they live in the city limits or not, to know they are Plant Citians and all are a crucial part of Plant City. By SWFWMD law, the developer will not be able to put more water off the property than what is currently going off now. Whatever is draining currently, the drainage cannot increase. The area in question is a pseudo noman’s land as it is the outskirts of county and city management. The county has promised to clean out the creek in question, which will help with flow and overall eco-management. Lott promised those who spoke that the City of Plant City would call the county to ensure the creek was cleaned out, as he was under the impression that was already in the works or was supposed to have occurred. Commissioner Mike Sparkman echoed those concerns and said he heard from many residents that the issue was a serious concern. He said he understood the problem, but he also understood the rights of the developer. Ultimately, the commissioners agreed to send the map amendment on to review by the other agencies. Then the amendment will come back before the commissioners for further discussion and a vote.
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
KRAZY KUP
PREPS TO REOPEN INDOOR VENUE in the future to include more unique and mouth-watering options. The Krazy Kup Ice Truck will also be around town more frequently and offer its refreshing treats nearly every day. The legendary events that have launched careers and drawn cult followings throughout the community are coming back as well, though there will be attendance restrictions and everyone will be required to follow CDC guidelines. Frank Trunzo said the coffee house is booked into 2021 and added that “the classics have returned.” To help with attendance concerns, the events have predominately been moved to Friday and Saturday and the hours of operation have shifted as well. The evening acts will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. with some wiggle room after in case the audience decides it wishes to continue the celebration a little longer. Comedy nights, Christian talent, Bluegrass Jams, Trivia Nights, Open Mic Night, Retro Movie Night, live bands and more will return on a routine schedule which can be found at the Krazy Kup Facebook events page. Special events, like a costume contest and horror movie marathon on Oct. 31 and Lip Sync Battles, will pop up sporadically as well. One new offering that is sure to quickly become a staple in the community is the new artist open venue in the courtyard. Krazy Kup will arrange for an artist to host an art show once a month in the courtyard on a Saturday where they can showcase their art and create their work right in front of attendees. In order to ensure everyone is safe, those who enter the building will have their temperature checked and are asked to social distance and comply with CDC guidelines. Frank Trunzo said they are also asking the public to
accommodate the new pandemic policies. Don’t camp out all day with your laptop — come enjoy a cup with your friends and then leave when you’re finished, as the facility won’t be able to accommodate a full crowd. As attendance grows, the loft will open to accommodate more customers who wish to sit down inside. “Basically it just felt like it was time,” Frank Trunzo said. “You can only hold your breath for so long. I just felt like it is time to breathe and I expect people to respect each other and treat each
other responsibly. If you’re not feeling well, stay home. Don’t come and stay all day, let others have a chance to come in and sit for a bit, too. I just think Wenda and I felt like people had to have their cup of joy and that was why we turned to the window at the start of this. Now I think it’s time for all of us to collectively take a breath. It’s time to start fresh.”
Photos courtesy of Josh Trunzo/Krazy Kup
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Park Rd.
The community is invited to take part in the “Greatest Hits” of Krazy Kup. The unique coffee house in the center of downtown, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., is reopening its doors on Aug. 18 and owner Frank Trunzo said it’s better than ever. The pandemic altered operations at the business for months, but rather than close up shop the coffee house shifted to a unique “new reality.” Ripping the bars off the window in the courtyard, a walk-up counter was brought to life. A new paint job, shade sails, new awnings, new decor and spruced-up greenery gave the building a new energy. Its customers quickly adapted and adjusted their routines to accompany quick trips to the colorful window. “I think it was a welcoming sense of normalcy,” Wenda Trunzo said. “Right off the bat when this all hit, people were trying to figure out what they were going to do. They didn’t know what was open, what their jobs looked like, what the future would hold. But at least they could come and get their cup of coffee. I’ve had so many people thank me through the window and I realized that while this was kind of our way of keeping Krazy Kup’s nose above the waterline, it was also a way for people to keep their nose above water, too. It was a routine they could grasp on to and it was amazing getting to just see the impact it had on people.” Krazy Kup has a devoted following and those regular patrons easily shifted to the new walk-up system. However, an unexpected benefit came from adding the new method of ordering. With so many people searching in-depth for safe and locally-owned businesses, a new wave of customers arrived. And as the state’s
reopening plan shifted and led to more members of the community to adjust to a new normal, that following remained. The Trunzos have worked hard to make Krazy Kup more than just a quick coffee run. It became a unique venue, a building full of as many experiences as palatepleasing cups of joe. That came to a full halt once the pandemic started, but Frank Trunzo said it is time to breathe again — with new rules and guidelines. When the doors open on Aug. 18 for the first time in months, the first major change will be that the courtyard window will remain open and in business. Those who want to stroll up, grab a quick cup and a muffin and run are free to do so. Those who want to come with their dog and sit down to enjoy their latte in the shade are able to do so without ever having to come inside. The courtyard wall already features a Main Street artist’s canvas and the business plans to add children’s art to the lineup to fill the wall with bursts of color. Those who do walk through the doors will notice there are more easter eggs than ever waiting within. The Trunzos have traveled the world and the decor of their coffee house reflects their diverse experiences. You’d always find people snapping photos of themselves with the Salacious Crumb hanging from the ceiling or posing in front of their favorite classic Disney ride poster. While the inside was closed to the public, further improvements were added including a refurbished coffee bag floor, a new bathroom floor, renovated tables, a redesigned stage and various decor additions. While glancing around, Frank Trunzo laughed and admitted even he couldn’t remember all that he’s added over the past few months. They’ve also added more staff, including a gourmet pastry chef who will help expand their menu
Maryland Ave.
STAFF WRITER
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BREANNE WILLIAMS
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
IN THE HEART OF PLANT CITY WITH lant City AT HEART
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
BOCC TAKES OVER PANDEMIC RESPONSE The Board of County Commissioners is now firmly in control of the pandemic response. In today’s meeting, they will determine whether or not the group wishes to make the mask mandate a permanent future in the county’s state of emergency or continue to renew it week to week.
Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)
BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Florida is still far from being out of the woods with its spread of COVID-19. However, recent data suggests the state may have finally reached its peak. On Tuesday, the outlook was bleak. Florida hit a new record for the most COVID-19 deaths announced in a single day with 277, bringing the death toll record across the state to 8,685 people, according to the Florida Department of Health. The second-worst day was just behind it with 257 deaths on July 31. Florida also added 5,831 new COVID-19 infections, which brought the state up to 542,792. To zoom out, the nation now has 5,150,590 cases as of Wednesday, which saw an increase of 9,382 on that day. The U.S. has lost 164,681 to the pandemic with 144 added on Wednesday. In Tampa Bay, the numbers are still putting the region on the charts. The Bay added 797 new cases and 44 deaths on Tuesday.
But when you look at the larger picture, there’s a hopeful image: the state’s average number of new cases trended downward for two weeks until the news on Tuesday. In fact, at the start of the week the state saw its lowest numbers since late June. However, testing across the state is sporadic at best. Some days there are 60,000 people tested and other days it’s more than 100,000. Holidays and hurricanes caused facilities to close for days at a time. The good news is hospitalizations as a whole have continued to decline — or so we assume, as the Florida Department of Health only began releasing the hospitalization data in early July. The past month and a half’s worth of data does show a decline in the last few weeks, though. Hospitalizations peaked in July at 9,500. Hillsborough County added seven deaths Tuesday. Pinellas had the most and ended up with one of the highest death rates in the state with 13 deaths. Polk County had 12 deaths and Manatee added seven. Hillsborough County now has 400 deaths and 32,996 positive COVID-19 cases. CBC1260170 / MRSR1611
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Management of the pandemic response is now fully in the hands of county commissioners following a vote last week to dissolve the Emergency Policy Group and reabsorb the responsibilities with their current dais. The mask mandate was brought up during the first Board of County Commissioners special emergency management meeting. “I just want to say that I’m going to be voting against the face mask mandate,” Commissioner Stacy White said. “I just want to put some reasons why on the record. I think it’s too heavy-handed to mandate this from the government level and to make the penalties so strict, I think it’s inefficient as public policy and extremely difficult, if not impossible, to enforce. And the ironic thing about these mask mandates is they’ve become so politically charged and so controversial, I’m a firm believer that they could actually be counterproductive. I strongly believe there are folks out there that would ordinarily be inclined to wear a mask based upon recommendations from public health officials, but that are abso-
lutely not going to wear a mask in protest to these strict government mandates.” The mask mandate was extended until today with a five-to-two vote, with White and Commissioner Ken Hagan voting no. The group will decide this afternoon on whether or not it is extended. This meeting will also hold an interesting discussion as the group will discuss whether it should delete the requirement in paragraph 15 of the order that says it has to be renewed every seven days. If deleted, the order will state the mask mandate will remain as long as the state of emergency is in place unless the group otherwise rescinded or amends the mandate. The group meets at 1:30 p.m. on Thursdays and its meetings can be streamed on the county’s Facebook and YouTube pages under the BOCC Special Meeting title.
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
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BILLY VERNON FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL STAFF REFLECTS ON LIFE OF
William D. “Billy” Vernon was an important part of the Florida Strawberry Festival for 47 years and often went out of his way to help others.
JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Though much in Plant City changed throughout Billy Vernon’s life, his giving nature never did. Vernon’s reputation as “the nicest guy you could ever meet” — a sentiment shared by many who knew and worked with him — carried over for decades as he made his mark in town as both a prominent figure in the local insurance scene and a mainstay on the Florida Strawberry Festival’s board of directors. “He was very dear to me,” Ray “Rolly” Rollyson said. “I really will give him credit for any success I’ve had in this business for the last 48 years. He was Superman. He really was. He genuinely cared about people.” Vernon, 93, born May 25, 1927, passed away peacefully at home on Aug. 5, surrounded by his family. Rollyson knew Vernon as well as anybody and said he was “like a second daddy.” Vernon coached Rollyson in Little League baseball in the 1950s and kept in touch with the family as Rollyson grew up and later moved out of town. When he came back in 1972 looking to get into the insurance business, it was Vernon who gave him his start with a job at Metropolitan Life Insurance. Rollyson said Vernon trained him in both the insurance business “and in the people business, too.” “He tried to instill that in me and I’ve tried to do the same thing,” Rollyson said. Rollyson and Vernon worked together until Rollyson left Metropolitan in 1976. In 1982, the two men decided to go into business together and created Rollyson & Vernon Insurance, also known as V&R Insurance, which is still active to this day. Vernon worked there until his retirement in 1993. Vernon was also extremely passionate about the Florida Strawberry Festival. He served on the board of directors for 47 years and was the festival’s president from
1989 through 1991, then went on to become a director emeritus. “His willingness to serve others and sincere admiration and love of the festival will be greatly missed,” the festival said in an official statement last week. “Mr. Vernon was an incredibly giving person and we are honored to have shared in the life of such an extraordinary man.” Current president Paul Davis knew Vernon for more than 40 years and said he always went out of his way to be a positive presence on and off the grounds. “He was probably one of the kindest men I’ve ever met,” Davis said. “Consummate gentleman. Back when I used to work security with Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at stadium events, he and his wife always took the time to walk over and talk. You can’t replace somebody like him. He was an absolute true gentleman. He had a kind heart. He was very smart. He really understood business and finances and helped guide the festival to where it is today.” Though insurance and the Florida Strawberry Festival are two separate worlds, Vernon was something like a bridge between them for Rollyson and others in Plant City. Directors like Rollyson, Mike Sparkman, Ron Gainey and Gary Boothe each worked with Vernon in the insurance business before eventually serving with him on the festival’s board of directors. “Every time I would see Billy at the festival, he and his wife would both say ‘I’m so proud of you, you’ve come a long way and you’ve done a great job,’ Gainey said. “He was always supportive of me. He’s one of those people that if you could pick somebody to be your father, regardless of your relationship with your real father, Billy Vernon would be that guy.” Vernon’s commitment to the festival lasted year-round, even in the offseason when the main office transitions to use a greatly reduced staff on site.
“He’d bring lunch out there for them and have lunch with them throughout the year,” Sparkman said. “He was very giving and very supportive of everybody.” It was also well-known throughout the Florida Strawberry Festival that the man loved his ice cream — especially butter pecan. Vernon would often buy it from vendors by the halfgallon and bring the containers into the directors’ area to share. “He would see to it that there was always a big container of ice cream in the directors’ hospitality lounge,” Rollyson said. Sparkman said Vernon personally recommended him for a spot on the board, and the two men ended up working closely for similar goals. Before Sparkman and his wife Diane took over the media party duties, Vernon handled them for many years and always made himself available if the Sparkmans needed a hand. “He is absolutely the nicest man I’ve ever known,” Sparkman said. “He wouldn’t hurt a fly and he loved everybody.” Vernon was also a World War II veteran of the Merchant Marines, a Plant City commissioner, a member of the Tampa Airport Authority and a past president of the Plant City Lions Club. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Betty Jo; their son, Chris (Tami); and two daughters, Grace and Katherine of Naples; daughterin-law, Bett and her two daughters, Brittany (Ryan Dodge) of Ottawa, and three children, William, Charlotte, and Benjamin, and Laura (David) Middleton of Orlando and their daughter, Kayleigh. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, James; and four siblings. Due to the pandemic, a private family burial was held at Oaklawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City, FL 33563 or the United Methodist Children's Home, 51 Children's Way, Enterprise, FL 32725.
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
TOURS OPEN THIS WEEKEND
FOR SADYE GIBBS MARTIN COMMUNITY CENTER
The community is invited to take part in tours on Friday and Saturday at the community center before it officially opens to the public on Monday. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
The wait is finally over. The new Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, formerly known as the MLK Community Center, is having its grand reopening ceremony tonight. The event is not what the city originally intended when it began the process of bringing the new center to life nearly two years ago. Thanks to the ongoing pandemic, the massive party has been reduced to a small gathering in order to comply with CDC guidelines and keep attendees safe. Construction began in May 2019 to replace the MLK Community Center, which was originally built at the same location in 1960 with an addition built in 1987. Thursday’s event is invite-only but the entire community will have a chance to tour the new facility and get acquainted with the building before it officially opens on Monday. Public tours are scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 14 and from 9 a.m.
to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15. No reservation is required and the free tours will be given every 30 minutes. The Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center is located at 302 S. Maryland Ave. The open window for attendees to swing by was designed to help reduce traffic in and out of the building so that there are no worries about social distancing requirements. All of the normal COVID-19 precautions will be in place including temperature checks, face masks and social distancing. To take a tour, any resident needs only to go to the main entrance around the half-hour and hour mark to meet up with the next group. Those who wish to take part in the ceremony on Thursday also have the opportunity to do so from the comfort of their own homes. The dedication ceremony and ribbon cutting will be livestreamed at 6 p.m. on the City of Plant City’s Facebook page. The center opens Monday and becomes a voting location on Tuesday.
CUTEST CRITTER
Do you want Plant City to see how cute your favorite pets are? Send your pictures to Staff Writer Breanne Williams at bwilliams@plantcityobserver.com to be featured.
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GRACIE: In honor of Harry Potter’s birthday, Gracie donned her favorite Gryffindor scarf and curled up next to her human brother Johnathan on the couch to watch all eight films. She knows it takes just under 20 hours to complete, so she promised to only take naps when something non-magical was happening. She proudly is on team Fluffy for life.
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
SLOW AND STEADY WINS THE RACE
With all the hype surrounding HIIT training, steady state cardio has taken a back seat in the fitness industry. Studies show HIIT (high intensity interval training) is more effective for fat loss than steady state cardio. The workouts are more intense, torching calories in a short amount of time, but incorporating steady state training into your routine can have many benefits. Steady state cardio helps build endurance, is great for beginners and can give your body time to recover between higher intensity workouts. Incorporating both into your weekly routine can challenge your muscles in different ways and help prevent burnout. Steady state cardio is an aerobic workout where the effort remains steady rather than varying levels of intensity. This type of training involves keeping your heart rate at a moderate level that you can sustain for a longer period. This is how we build endurance. A good example of this is a 60-minute jog as opposed to running hills or including all-out sprints. Building endurance is so important for those at every fitness level because it helps with heart health and helps us push through our workouts. For those training to run a race, or a triathlon for instance, endurance is critical. No amount of 30-minute HIIT sessions will prepare your body to run 10-plus miles. It is for this reason training programs for marathons and half marathons include longer runs coupled with shorter, speedier ones. Steady state training is great for beginners or those recovering from
injury. The high intensity and higher impact exercises in interval training are not for everyone, but there are other things you can do. Any cardio exercise that you enjoy, such as going for a walk, riding a bike, using the rowing machine or climbing the Stairmaster, will work. The key is to go at a moderate pace, keeping your heart rate relatively low. You should be able to have a conversation. Those going from a sedentary lifestyle will find it much easier to incorporate lower intensity exercises into a daily routine and will be more likely stick with it. Our bodies need time to rest between workouts. If a complete day of inactivity is unappealing to you, steady state cardio sessions in between tougher HIIT drills can give your body some time to recover. No matter what your goal, combining HIIT and steady state workouts is the best way to improve your fitness. While HIIT is great for burning fat in quick sessions, it will not build endurance. Too much of either workout can lead to overuse injuries and overall fatigue. Angela Fulgieri is a Program Director for the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA. Write her at observerfitness@gmail. com.
FHSAA CHANGES TUNE ON FRIDAY BOARD MEETING The FHSAA announced Monday night it will livestream Friday’s board of directors meeting, in which the future of fall sports (and possibly other 2020-21 seasons) will be decided. Before Monday, the FHSAA’s plan was to open the Gainesville meeting physically to the public (with a limit of 50 attendees, nearly half of whom would have been board members) but not broadcast it. Not streaming the meeting would have created a sketchy situation with Florida’s Sunshine Law, as the FHSAA constitution states all of its meetings are “conducted in compliance” with the law and all its records are public. Though the meeting would have been open to the public, a strict limitation on in-person attendance plus the inability to let the general public view it led many to call it a violation of state law and prompted some board members to petition for transparency. Decisions made in this meeting will affect hundreds of schools and thousands of athletes, coaches, faculty and volunteers, and there was already precedent for livestreaming as the past two board meetings were viewable on YouTube. The meeting will begin at 10 a.m. Friday.
CITY PROVIDES UPDATE ON ATHLETICS RESTART The Plant City Parks and Recreation Department announced Aug. 7 the restart of athletic competitions on its fields “has become even more of a moving target” in light of developments with the school board and the FHSAA. Department director Jack Holland said he does not foresee any competition games on Plant City fields on Aug. 17 “and probably not until Oct. 1 at the earliest,” with the possibility of some sports not having a fall season at all. “In Hillsborough County, a decision has not been made regarding the start of competition games. At our meetings between the Parks & Recreation Directors of the region (Hillsborough County, Tampa, Temple Terrace, Plant City, Oldsmar, Clearwater and St Petersburg) and the medical professionals from the
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
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Hillsborough County Department of Health and USF Health, we have been told to not consider any competition games until late this calendar year,” Holland said. “Many youth sports organizations have already canceled their fall seasons… with that said, the final decisions for Hillsborough County have not been made and I will forward any new info we get as soon as I receive it. We anticipate having some answers early next week.” Teams can still use the fields for conditioning and skills practices.
PC BASEBALL PLAYER PICKED FOR PERFECT GAME FESTIVAL Perfect Game, one of the biggest scouting report services int he United States, announced last week five amateur baseball players from Florida have been selected to play in and attend its upcoming 13U Select Baseball game and festival in Oklahoma City. One of them is Plant City’s own Chase Mobley. “Far more than just a game, the event provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the players selected,” Perfect Game said in a press release. “While in Oklahoma City the players will participate in a series of baseballrelated activities in addition to a visit to the Oklahoma City National Memorial, site of the April 19, 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. In the weeks leading up to the event, players will have the opportunity to participate in a fundraising effort to help support the Toby Keith Foundation’s OK Kids Korral, which benefits families with children battling cancer. Prior to the game, players will visit with children at the OK Kids Korral, for which they will help raise money leading up to the event. OK Kids Korral, a project of The Toby Keith Foundation, provides a cost-free, convenient, and comfortable home for pediatric cancer patients receiving treatment at The Children’s Hospital at OU Medical Center, Peggy & Charles Stephenson Cancer Center and other nearby facilities.” The event will take place from Sept. 4-6. The 13U game will be streamed on perfectgame.org.
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN
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We asked Facebook: What do you believe is the best action for the FHSAA to take on Friday
for the return of high school sports? “Kids need and deserve sports!! Let them play!!” — Tanna Herring
“Fall sports - no! Maybe in the spring.” — Tammie Burns Medina
“Return to sports.” — Julie Hallman Futch
“No school, no sports.” — Carolyn Cauffman Quaintance
“Time to get on with things...including high school sports!” — Mallory Wacaser Purdy “Will depend on choice of brick and mortar. If they can’t attend, they can’t play.” — Tammy Downing Simpson “If colleges don’t think it’s safe, then I’d say it’s not going to be safe for high schools.” — Michael Watkins
“We need to #SaveOurChildren.” — Amanda Feaster Duncan “Let them play!” — Michael Witchoskey, Nancy Fryrear, Jodi Raker Felice, Christie Holland Wacaser, Annitta Reddick, Lisa Westmiller Johnson, Paula Switzer
“If they can’t return to school, why should they be able to return to sports, conditioning included? They are still “practicing” right now even though they may not be in contact or contact is limited, they’re still going to the school campus and practicing... So why not just return them to school as well. It’s like it’s 1 foot in, make up your mind, either both feet in or both feet out. I say return them back to school and sports.” — Mary Jensen
“Let the athletes play! If FHSAA fears liability- have the parents sign a waiver releasing that liability!” — Deborah Stasiak “As a parent of 2 athletes...Let them play. I also signed up for brick & mortar.” — Lisa Joye-Rhodes
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
JULY 2020
Address
Local July 2020 sales and trend information courtesy of The Crawford Group. Permit information was obtained from the City of Plant City.
JULY 2020 SALES SNAPSHOT The following properties were a sample listed as sold on the Greater Tampa Realtors Association MLS in July 2020. The home at 1011 N.
Nancy Terrace sold July 8 for $154,500. Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 988 square feet of living area. The home at 2709 Wilder Trace sold July 9 for $204,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,384 square feet of living area.
The home at 911 Ashen-
tree Drive sold July 29 for $235,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,540 square feet of living area. The home at 503
McLendon St. sold July 31 for $237,500. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,752 square feet of living area. The home at 3213 Stevenson St. sold July 30 for $295,000. Built in 1991, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,101 square feet of living area. The home at 3055 Sut-
ton Woods Drive sold July 23 for $375,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,024 square feet of living area.
The home at 2915 Hampton Place Court sold July 24 for $385,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,919 square feet of living area.
Permit
Occupancy
$22,399,200
302 S. Maryland Ave.
Occupancy
$4,940,000
2001 N. Park Road
Amusement/social/recreation
$1,722,000
2400 James L. Redman Pkwy.
Occupancy
$275,000
1655 S. County Line Road
Industrial building
$267,000
715 Tillman Place
Industrial building
$260,000
Electrical
$254,845
1655 S.care Countyof Line Road Taking each 2851 other is whatRoad Pennsylvania Ave. sold July Thonotosassa
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The home at 2224 Davies Country Trail sold July 17 for $495,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 3,220 square feet of living area. The home at 2326
Tanbark Ridge sold July 31 for $180,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,594 square feet of living area.
$253,000
is all about.
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Annie Keene, 87, of Plant City, passed
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WELLSMEMORIAL.COM WELLSMEMORIAL.COM The home at 2806 Lampp Road sold July Wells MeMorial & event Center Kathy Lynn Gamble Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy 1 for $225,000. Built in Leon Souther Jr. PlanTJackson CiTy 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com 2000, it has five bedKathy Lynn Gamble, 71, of Mulberry, dedicated helping families create a W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community rooms, three baths and passedwe’re away ontoThursday, August 6, Leon Jackson Souther Jr., 76, of Dover, unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. celebrates the life it represents. As yourof Dignity Memorial professionals, 2,114 square feet living 2020. Kathy was born July 3, 1949. passed away on Friday, August 7, 2020. > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability area. Services will be held at Wells MemoLeon was born June 11, 1944. He was a > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® rial August 15, 2020 at 11 am. Visit www. United States Army Veteran. Fond memowe’re dedicated to helping families create a may be W E ’ RE P RO U D TO S E RV E ourries community R WellsMemorial.com for the Gamble and expressions of sympathy The home at 1507 Teakunique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. the Plant City Strawberry Festival. celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, family. shared at www.WellsMemorial.com for the wood Drive sold July 31Proudly for supporting > 100% Service Guarantee Souther> National family.Plan Transferability $241,000. Built in 1979, it > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® has three bedrooms, two R baths and 2,018 square WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. feet of living area.
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®
Pond Drive sold July 1 for $664,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,978 square feet of living area.
Amount
1911 S. Wiggins Road
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The home at 3324 Brians
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These are the largest building permits issued in Plant City for the month of July 2020, in order of dollar amounts.
REAL ESTATE
Compared with 2019 figures, the Plant City area’s real estate market picked up in July. Last month, 97 properties sold with an average sale price of $250,052 and $134.76 per square foot. There was a 14 percent increase from last month in units sold. Compared to last July, that represents a 13 percent increase in average sale price per square foot (vs. $119.29 per square foot in 2019) and a slight increase in the number of properties sold (vs. 93 in 2019). Mitchell Crawford, of the Crawford Group, said that while the market is strengthening, buyers are facing limited property choices and the current property inventory is at less than one month’s supply. “The ‘tank,’ as you might say is almost empty, (inventory supply) without an infusion to the supply,” Crawford said. “This market may become stale, slowed down or recede. A stable inventory level should be in the range of two to three months’ supply. This is what our community needs.”
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
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TOP BUILDING PERMITS
OBITUARIES
REAL ESTATE
PlantCityObserver.com
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Taking care of each other is what 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy
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10/27/15 10:42 AM
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10/27/15 10:42 AM
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Wells MeMorial & event Center
Linda Kay Goebel PlanT CiTy
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Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival.
Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival.
WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Wells MeMorial & event Center
M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1
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WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Wells MeMorial & event Center
PlanT CiTy
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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Charles Hobbs
Elmer Said Garcia Cortes Elmer Said Garcia Cortes, 19, of San Roque, Mexico, born in Pochutla, Guajaca, Mexico on November 9, 2000, entered into eternal rest on July 26, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Leonardo Flores Tafolla Leonardo Flores Tafolla, 32, of Dover, born in Cueramaro, Guanajuato, Mexico on July 11, 1988, entered into eternal rest on July 31, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Jackie Thomas Hunter, Sr., 77, of Lithia, born on January 12, 1943, entered into eternal rest on August 3, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Shirley M. Rountree, 84, of Plant City, born on July 6, 1936 in AllenWilliam D. ‘Billy’ town, Pennsylvania, entered into Vernon eternal rest on August 8, 2020. Expressions of condolence at William D. “Billy” Vernon, 93, born HopewellFuneral.com. in Tampa, May 25, 1927, passed away peacefully at home on August 5, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com. HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Agapita Salmeron Perez
Pedro Rivera Rivera
Jackie Thomas Hunter, Sr.
Jim Hicks, 78, of Plant City, born on September 18, 1941, entered into eternal rest on August 6, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Shirley M. Rountree
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Pedro Rivera Rivera, 72, of Plant City, born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, on August 3, 1947, entered into eternal rest on August 1, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Jim Hicks
Agapita Salmeron Perez, 59, of Plant City died on Aug. 4, 2020. Funeral services were held Aug. HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM 7, 2020 at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Linda Gail Walker Plant City, FL 33563. Online condolences may be Linda Gail Walker, 73, of Plant City, left for the family at www.haught. born on July 28, 1947 in Winter Haven, entered into eternal rest on care. August 4, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com. HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM
Michael ‘Mike’ Clark Michael “Mike” Clark, 31, of Tampa, passed away on August 9, 2020. The family will receive friends Friday, August 14, 2020 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W Dr MLK Jr Blvd, Plant City, FL 33563. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.
Benjamin “Ben” Flack, 67, of Plant City, passed away on August 1, 2020. Services were held August 10, 2020 at Liberty Southern Baptist Church, 2505 West Granfield Avenue, Plant City, FL 33563. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.
HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM
Phil Stanley Newton Phil Stanley Newton, 77, of Plant City, passed away on August 5, 2020. Services will be held privately. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.
Joan Toomey Joan Toomey, 81, of Plant City, passed away on August 7, 2020. Services will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.
HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
YOUR COMMUNITY FUNERAL HOME AND CEMETERY. FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1971 HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Benjamin ‘Ben’ Flack
OBITUARIES
Charles Hobbs, 91, of Plant City, born on May 15, 1929 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 2, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
Universal Crossword Edited by David Steinberg August 3, 2020 PLANT CITY OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
I LOVE PLANT CITY
8/3
FORECAST THURSDAY, AUGUST 13 High: 91 Low: 75 Chance of rain: 60%
FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 High: 93 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 50%
25 Foiled villain’s cry 26 Caprice for Katie Ledecky? 31 Tinder profile part, informally 32 Muse of love poetry 33 Lukewarm 37 Ages 39 Like a brainiac 41 Animated explorer 42 Hollywood VIP 44 Animal on a Buffalo nickel 46 Kitchen spray choice 47 Ancient letter for Perry Como? 50 Looks that may be icy 53 Water-resistant cover
54 Tropical getaway for Roger Bannister? 58 Band aids? 61 News piece about a life, briefly 62 Inventor’s inspiration 63 Gobbled down 64 Unlike unicorns 65 Skedaddled 66 The Wizard of ___ Park (Thomas Edison) 67 Custom birdhouse website 68 Desires 69 Full-grown DOWN 1 Astonished reaction 2 “Legally Blonde” protago-
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
High: 92 Low: 75 Chance of rain: 80%
SUNDAY, AUGUST 16 High: 91 Low: 75 Chance of rain: 60%
OKRA
Shipping point: Central Florida $10.35-$10.85
nist Woods 3 Genre for Bach, Beethoven and Brahms 4 Big explosion sound 5 Honey Graham ___ 6 Meter maid in a Beatles song 7 “Don’t worry about me” 8 End of a political scandal name 9 Over-sear? 10 Took weapons from 11 Puma rival 12 Church donation 13 Phoenix’s remains 21 Creepy looks 22 Management figure 24 Sra., across the Pyrenees 26 What many freelancers write on? 27 It may be barbed 28 “___: Last Blood” (2019 action film) 29 Besmirch 30 Like a B+, vis-a-vis an A34 One may appear when you mouse over something 35 Persia, today 36 Title for Joan Sutherland 38 In confidence 40 Linzer ___ (Austrian pastry) 43 Uncle Remus title 45 Cybersecurity grp. 48 Bone up? 49 Like “Moonlight” and “Parasite” 50 Dessert with a gooey center 51 Himalayan land 52 Anna Gram, say, for a wordsmith 55 Twiddling one’s thumbs 56 No longer hidden 57 Fellas 59 Influence 60 Leopard marking 63 Health advocacy org.
15
SUNRISE/SUNSET
Sunrise Sunset
Thursday, August 13
6:58a
8:08p
Friday, August 14
6:58a
8:07p
Saturday, August 15
6:59a
8:06p
Sunday, August 16
6:59a
8:05p
Monday, August 17
7:00a
8:04p
Tuesday, August 18
7:00a
8:03p
Wednesday, August 19
7:01a
8:02p
MOON PHASES
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15
Heard It Before? by Stu Ockman
ACROSS 1 Geico mascot 6 Semis 10 Big ___ (large sets to mine) 14 Islam deity 15 Computer whose plural sounds like a big-screen format 16 Egyptian goddess invoked in “The Magic Flute” 17 Concrete floors, e.g. 18 Dorothy’s basketful 19 Darth Vader, for one 20 Colombian currency 21 Soreness for LeBron James? 23 A few
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Aug. 19 New
Aug. 25 First
Sept. 1 Full
Aug. 15 Last
RAINFALL Monday, Aug. 3
0.00
Tuesday, Aug. 4 0.30 Wednesday, Aug. 5
0.00
Thursday, Aug. 6 0.44 0.00
Friday, Aug. 7
Saturday, Aug. 8 0.03 0.56
Sunday, Aug. 9 YEAR TO DATE:
MONTH TO DATE:
2020 29.06 in.
2020 1.36 in.
2019 26.42 in.
2019
7.10 in.
WEATHER
50 Looks that 9 Over-sear? ACROSS 36 Title for Joan may be icy 10 Took 1 Geico mascot Sutherland 53 Waterweapons 6 Semis 38 In confidence resistant from 10 Big ___ (large 40 Linzer ___ cover 11 Puma rival sets to mine) (Austrian SendIslam your photo to Associate Editor12 Justin Kline at jkline@PlantCityObserver.com 54 Tropical Church 14 deitysubmissions pastry) donation 15 Computer or hashtag #iloveplantcity ongetaway Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature. 43 Uncle for Roger 13 Phoenix’s whose plural Remus title Bannister? remains sounds like 45 Cybersecurity 58 Band aids? 21 Creepy looks a big-screen grp. 61 News piece 22 Management format 48 Bone up? about a life, figure 16 Egyptian 49 Like briefly 24 Sra., across goddess “Moonlight” 62 Inventor’s the Pyrenees invoked in and “Parasite” inspiration 26 What many “The Magic 50 Dessert with a 63 Gobbled freelancers Flute” gooey center down write on? 17 Concrete 51 Himalayan 64 Unlike 27 It may be floors, e.g. land unicorns barbed 18 Dorothy’s 52 Anna Gram, 65 Skedaddled 28 “___: Last basketful say, for a 66 The Wizard Blood” (2019 19 Darth Vader, wordsmith of ___ Park action film) for one 55 Twiddling (Thomas 29 Besmirch 20 Colombian one’s thumbs Edison) 30 Like a B+, currency 56 No longer 67 Custom vis-a-vis 21 Soreness hidden birdhouse an Afor LeBron 57 Fellas website 34 One may James? 59 Influence 68 Desires appear 23 A few 60 Leopard 69 Full-grown when you 25 Foiled villain’s marking DOWN mouse over cry 63 Health 1 Astonished something 26 Caprice advocacy org. reaction 35 Persia, today for Katie 2 “Legally Ledecky? Blonde” 31 Tinder PREVIOUS PUZZLE ANSWER protagonist profile part, Brenda Miller took this photoWoods of a rose shortly after a morning rain shower. informally 3 Genre for 32 Muse of love Bach, poetry us on social media: @PCObserver on Instgram, ON L I N E Follow Beethovenon Twitter and Plant City Observer 33 Lukewarm @PlantObserver and Brahms 37 Ages on Facebook. 4 Big explosion 39 Like a sound brainiac 5 Honey 41 Animated Graham ___ explorer 6 Meter maid 42 Hollywood in a Beatles VIP song 44 Animal on a 7 “Don’t worry Buffalo nickel about me” 46 Kitchen 8 End of a spray choice 47 Ancient letter political 8/2 for Perry scandal © 2020 Andrews McMeel Universal www.upuzzles.com Como? name
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2020
AN EMERGENCY IS STILL AN EMERGENCY. EVEN DURING THIS EMERGENCY.
Don’t hesitate when it comes to getting emergency treatment. Even during a pandemic, you still need to be treated immediately if you have an emergency. Debating whether or not to risk going to an emergency room during a heart attack, stroke or other health emergency—waiting even a few extra minutes—could be harmful. That’s why in
20-1126895-0520
all BayCare hospital emergency rooms, patients who have symptoms of COVID-19 are screened and treated in a separate area. This helps keep emergency room patients and our team members safe. So if it’s an emergency, don’t wait. For more information: BayCareEmergencyCare.org