9.2.21 PLCO by Plant City Observer

Plant City Observer

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FREE • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

VOLUME 6, NO. 160

. YO UR NEWS PAP ER . PCPD RESPONDS TO COMMUNITY COMPLAINTS WITH TRAFFIC DEMONSTRATION

In response to traffic complaints from the local community, officers from Plant City’s police department held a demonstration to help residents gain a better understanding of the enforcement process.

TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

Plant City residents have long complained about drivers speeding through the local neighborhood that surrounds the long stretch of Ball St., ranging from Evers St. to Waller St. In response to recent complaints filed at one of the Plant City Police Department’s bi-monthly community meetings held at the department, Captain Alfred Van Duyne along

with officers Shawnice Wiggins and Kyle Russell met with community members at Mt. Olive Church, 604 W. Ball St., for a radar and laser demonstration. The event allowed residents to see all of what goes into speed detection, in addition to allowing officers the chance to answer any questions posed during the demonstration. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

SUPERHEROES MASK UP FOR DOWNTOWN PARTY August’s Last Friday in Downtown event pit Marvel against DC in a festive and super-themed party that filled the streets of historic downtown.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Superhero fans got a chance to don the mask last weekend for Plant City Main Street’s Last Friday in Downtown event. This month the organization had attendees pick their favorite comic franchise, Marvel or DC, and come dressed in costume to the downtown festivities. Some chose to dress as Captain Marvel and Thor while others chose Superman’s cape and Wonder Woman’s lasso of truth. Members of the Watchmen and Doom Patrol grabbed coffee at Krazy Kup and sweet treats at the Kandy Shop while Loki variants popped into Tub Treats and S.H.I.E.L.D. agents shopped at the vendors alongside McCall Park.

Courtesy of Three Hands Mead

Courtesy of Travis Settineri

Courtesy of Dylan Tice

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS

Courtesy of PCPD.

Plant City Parks & Rec set to host multiple events in October The 27th annual Plant City Optimist Club/Plant City Recreation & Parks Department Golf Classic will be held on Saturday, Oct. 9 at the Diamond Hill Golf Club, 13115 Sydney Road, in Dover. Registration will begin at 11 a.m. and the four-person scramble format shotgun start will begin at 1 p.m. The player fee will be $75 and includes 18 holes of golf, a car, range balls, a meal and awards. Prizes for contests such as a putting contest, two long drive holes and two closest to the pin holes will be awarded, in addition to door prizes distributed to those with winning raffle tickets purchased at the event. Teams, hole sponsors, raffle/door prize sponsors and tournament sponsors are still being solicited. Registration forms are available now at http://www.plantcityoptimistclub.org or at the front desk of the

Recreation & Parks Department administrative office, 194 South Park Rd. Funds raised by the Plant City Optimist Club benefit youth programs offered by the Recreation & Parks Department and the club. Later in the month, kids will have the opportunity to participate in the Optimist Football Tri-Star Punt, Pass & Kick Competition. The event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2402 E. Cherry St. Competition is free and open to all youths aged six to 15 and boys and girls will compete separately. Registration to the event is required prior to participation and those in the department’s flag football program can compete in the event following their 8:30 a.m. game or before their 9:45 or 11 a.m. game. For more information, visit http://www. plantcityoptimistclub.org or call 813-6594255.

City Pointe Church women’s team to host Going Beyond Live Simulcast with Priscilla Shirer City Pointe Church will host Going Beyond Live - Simulcast with Priscilla Shirer on Saturday, Sep. 25. The Simulcast will also feature Worship with Anthony Evans. During the event, Going Beyond Live will be happening live and in person in North Little Rock, Arkansas, but to bring the experience to a wider audience right here in Plant City City Point Church will be hosting the live simulcast in their sanctuary at 503 N. Palmer St. The event cost is $12 per person and a catered meal is also available for purchase for $12. Tickets and the meal can be purchased at citypointechurch.com/ goingbeyond. “Going Beyond Live with Priscilla Shirer,

and Worship with Anthony Evans we will experience powerful Biblical truth to shake you out of routine faith once and for all,” City Pointe Church said in a release. “At Going Beyond Live, you won’t find sugarcoated truths or half-hearted declarations. Instead, you’ll experience whole-hearted teaching to inspire and challenge you to step into God’s plan for your life, powerful worship that centers your heart on Christ, and fellowship with other believers who will encourage you in your walk with Christ.” City Pointe Church is an interdenominational church in Plant City led by Lead Pastor, Scott McIntosh. Located in the heart of downtown Plant City at 503 N Palmer St., City Pointe Church meets weekly on Sundays for Morning Prayer at 9:30 a.m., Morning Worship at 10:30 a.m., and Wednesdays for Wednesday Evening Connection & City Group (small group studies) at 6:30 p.m.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

‘LET’S TALK’ AIMS TO PRIORITIZE MENTAL HEALTH IN TAMPA BAY Tampa Bay Thrives is launching a new navigation support line in Hillsborough County called “Let’s Talk.”

Courtesy of Tampa Bay Thrives

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

A new program by Tampa Bay Thrives will act as a free, 24/7 navigation support line for residents in Hillsborough County to receive assistance with mental health or substance use issues. The group officially launched Let’s Talk on July 19 and has seen a steady increase in its call volume ever since as locals learn the new service is available. Members of the community can call 1-833Dial-111 (833-342-511) and talk to a clinically trained counselor for free. The counselors can then offer guidance, make a referral to local providers and provide connections to peer support. “We were founded in 2019 by a coalition of leaders who are in various positions across the four county region including healthcare, schools, local government, law enforcement, providers and private employers,” Carrie Zeisse, president and CEO of Tampa Bay Thrives, said. “They all came together with the idea that despite doing really excellent work across the region people are still falling through the gaps. So this is a continuation of that work. Shortly after this organization started was COVID and a big part of that first year was spent doing planning so what we did was we staffed up and built the organization. As we continued to convene these leaders and ask the question of, does the original priority that was establish still hold and then we

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the CDC found that only “4.7 percent of adults aged 18 years or older reported regular feelings of depression and 11.2 percent reported regular feelings of worry, nervousness or anxiety.” Zeisse said the past 20 months of an ongoing pandemic paired with job uncertainty, loss of loved ones and rapidly evolving health updates has left many strained. She said the goal is to help people feel better, earlier, and to prevent local residents from getting worse. Mental health is the same as every other area of wellbeing and if you don’t take care of it, it can lead to serious problems. The free support line is confidential — as long as the caller

is not in any danger of hurting themselves or others — and will hopefully be the initial step in strengthening access to mental health programs throughout the area. Zeisse said Florida ranks “very low in terms of access to behavioral health” and Let’s Talk aims to streamline the process of connecting people to established organizations that could offer aid. The group sends out surveys three weeks after callers reach out to assess the success of the referrals and aid. The program launched approximately a month ago so much of that data is not yet back, but Zeisse said the number of calls they’ve received is steadily increasing.

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up to make sure that they were able to get through to the right outlet. It’s all about helping people take that first step in “engaging in their journey to feel better,” according to Zeisse. The organization said the initiative could not have launched at a better time. Throughout the course of the last year and a half, mental health related challenges have increased rapidly across the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that from August 2020 to February 2020 there was an “increase in the proportion of adults reporting recent symptoms of anxiety or depression from 36.4 percent to 41.5 percent. To compare, in 2019

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looked out to the community and we talked to people and surveyed people and we kind of assessed the landscape to determine where the gaps were and we see this as a gap filler.” Zeisse said they are starting the program in Hillsborough County and hope to soon expand. The counselor who answers the phone will ask the caller a few questions, like if the person calling is doing so for themselves or someone else as well as some questions to establish a brief background on where the person is in their life that would have led to the call. From there they access a data base that is continually being built out in the county and can help the caller determine where to go based on if they have insurance and what their concern is at the moment. “For a lot of people with mild to moderate issues, things that are just beginning to come to the floor or they’re not sure about how a loved one is doing, people who are not at the crisis end, who are not feeling suicidal symptoms, but are kind of before that, it can be very challenging to get help,” Zeisse said. “Some of the results we saw in our surveys were that 85 percent of individuals who had insurance said they weren’t quite sure where to start when they were ready to see someone. It can be a lot of information to wade through.” The counselor can give the caller a referral somewhere that they’ve helped determine would be a good fit and then they follow

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY

Observer

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigate gunshots fired in the night, a

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

road rage incident and stolen

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

beer. istock

Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com

AUG. 20

AUG. 21

AUG. 22

AUG. 25

I’VE GOT A GOOD CEILING ABOUT THIS

ROAD RAGING

BYE-CYCLE

TRAFFIC STOPPED

I-4 / N. Park Rd. Agg. battery with a motor vehicle: The two victims alerted officers that they were traveling together when the ex of one of the victims observed them together and followed them, engaging in road rage along I-4 from Tampa to Plant City. While traveling on Park Road, the suspect struck the rear end of the victim’s vehicle with his vehicle. The suspect could not be reached and the victims did not wish to take action and signed a waiver of prosecution.

700 block of W. Madison St. Theft: Officers met with the victim who alerted them that his bicycle had been stolen.

1700 block of E. Baker St. Warrant arrest: Officers conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the suspect. They then discovered that the driver had an outstanding warrant out of Hillsborough County. The suspect was then transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

600 block of Spruce St. Grand theft: Officers met with the victim who alerted them that during the night, unknown suspects removed three roof shingles and several pieces of wood from the house at the location that was currently under construction. SHOT IN THE DARK 1000 block of W. Madison St. Shooting into an occupied dwelling: Officers responded to the area in reference to five gunshots being heard. After an investigation, they found that the front door at the listed location was struck multiple times by projectiles.

FIRST ROUND’S ON YOU 2800 block of Thonotosassa Rd. Beer theft: Officers responded to a gas station at the location in response to beer stolen from the establishment.

AUG. 26 TOOL TIME

AUG. 23 OPEN FOR BUSINESS 1300 block of E. Baker St. Business burglary: Officers met with victim who advised them than an unknown person entered the business at the location during the night and removed over $300 in cash.

2100 block of N. Park Rd. Grand theft: Officers made contact with the owner of a hotel at the location who advised them that tools had been stolen from the beds of two different trucks.

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

DEMONSTRATION GIVES COMMUNITY MEMBERS CHANCE TO SEE NEW PERSPECTIVE

The demonstration included an opportunity for residents to test their own perception of how fast vehicles were traveling when compared to the department’s exact speed monitoring devices.

FROM PAGE 1 TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

“The thing is, we’d hate for something bad to happen before they put up a stop sign when they can do it now,” resident Celestine Moore said. “Then it would prevent all of that.” Plant City Police had previously conducted speed studies using a small, portable radar box that allows the department to gain longterm information on both the frequency of traffic in the area, as well as the direction and speed at which the traffic is traveling. The radar box can be mounted to a telephone pole or a tree for long periods to gather date on traffic, unbeknownst to the drivers themselves. The result of these studies indicated that there are indeed incidents of speeding from motorists that would require enforcement in the area, although the speeds travelled and the frequency of extreme offenses were not aligning with the level of complaints that the department has received from residents. In response, PCPD did however take action by deploying officers to perform speed enforcement in the area. “We did do some traffic control out there,” Van Duyne said. “We were able to stop some vehicles but the vehicle speed that we got were not the breakneck speeds that the citizens were relaying to us, that it’s a race track, that they’re doing 50, 60 miles per hour day in and day out.” Chief James Bradford then proposed the idea to hold this event, allowing citizens to compare perceived speeds and gain a better understanding of that when compared to the actual speed of the vehicle when compared to a radar or laser unit. Officers met with residents at the church at 8 a.m. and walked a short distance down the road where Officer Russell, a member of

PCPD’s Traffic Management Unit, displayed specifics regarding his vehicle’s mounted radar unit and a portable laser unit when measuring the speed of oncoming vehicles. “I’m just glad to be enlightened on this,” Rhonda Bellamy said. “I’m glad to see them out here to tell you the truth, it was very informative and I’m just glad.” In addition to monitoring the speeds of oncoming motorists, Officer Wiggins made several trips past the group in a vehicle of her own, at designated speeds, allowing residents to observe what each speed looks like and guess how fast she was traveling. But despite their appreciation for the department’s efforts and the knowledge that they gained from the demonstration, residents feel that more can be done. “Going to city hall and seeing about some stop signs or speed bumps put in,” Bellamy said about the community’s potential next step. “Or hire more officers so that during those peak times for speeding, from six to eight like [Van Duyne] said, you can have someone over here.”

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

WATERING HOLES IN PLANT CITY: THE MENEHUNES RESTAURANT & TIKI LOUNGE

GIL GOTT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE DR. SCOTTY & HSIU HUANG HISTORY CENTER PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES, INC. SEPTEMBER 2021

Plant City in 2021 is growing fast. A part of that is the noticeable springing up of new watering holes, places to imbibe in a cool glass of frothy craft beer or top shelf wine. New places like Roots, the Tipsy Bookworm, Three Hands Mead Company, and Bruton’s Cigar Shop. It was not always that way. Let’s look back at some of the well-known and not so well-known watering spots in Plant City over the years, with a closer look at one of the most different places in Plant City. The old well-worn places include these: Although the Roach family had a store, Roach’s Grocery, Freddie Roach had one of the best-known bars in town – Red Fred’s on Haines Street. Everyone knew Red Fred’s. Then there was Tony Mike’s on Reynolds Street. He later moved it to a lot on US92 just east of Maryland Street and named it Tony Mike’s Liquors, Bar and Package. And there was the well-frequented Speak Easy on Laura Street and the Plant Bar on Palmer Street. All very popular places to go. But one that seems to be all but forgotten today is The Menehunes, not exactly a watering hole but a fascinating restaurant and lounge.

In 1973 there was a small gas station at the corner of Sammonds Road and Woodrow Wilson Street. Next to it was Bartlett’s TV and a Baptist Tabernacle. In 1974, at 2301 Sammonds Road, was Victor and Kay Brownie’s take out restaurant in the converted gas station. Victor had lived in Maui, Hawaii, and was fascinated with Polynesian foods and décor. He expanded the little place adding exotic foliage, a lagoon, palm trees and, being an experienced chef, he added Polynesian meals to the menu. Then, he added luaus and Polynesian entertainment – hula dancers, Hawaiian music and an expanded dining area with an outside lighted area near the lagoon. The Menehunes Restaurant and Tiki Lounge came to be the place to go by late1974. A Tampa Times headline read: “Polynesians hula and palm trees sway in Plant City’s Menehunes Restaurant.” The article begins, “Step into a different world where palm trees sway, love doesn’t die and the sun never quits, where hibiscus flower while smiling tikis look on…. A lagoon circles a stage where Polynesians hula in grass skirts to soft, rhythmic music.” It was a mini-Polynesia.

Here is a delightful write up: “Lunch and Dinner are served in the delightful MENEHUNES RESTAURANT. The name comes from the legend of the Menehunes (three foot tall people of Hawaii) and the story is told on the menu. The legend, along with the outside gardens and lagoon under a thatched roof, set the mood for enchantment as you dine at this charming restaurant. Begin with a PuPu Tray and proceed to the Vic the Trader Sea Island Special, the Luau feast or one of their authentic Polynesian specialties: Beef Steak Mandarin, Cantonese Lobster, Rickshaw Sweet ‘N Sour Shrimp and Yat Ko Chicken among others…. Sip on your favorite rum and fruit libation in the Tiki Lounge.” Vic and Kay Brownie contracted unique entertainment: Doug and Sundee, direct from Nevada; Joe and Dati Sikahema, Polynesian and American Entertainment; Rhonda Wheeler on the piano; Doug Lyles, the man with the talking guitar; and Dennis Wolf and the Polynesian Night Life Show. Entertainment was nightly Tuesday through Saturday. Business grew quickly and organizations and clubs patronized Menehunes: The Florida

Strawberry Festival and Hillsborough County Fair steering committee met to plan the upcoming 1975 festival; the Optimist Club enjoyed their awards banquet; the 1927 Class of Plant City High School held its 50th year reunion; the Woman’s Club visited for their Fall Banquet; the Kiwanians held their Annual Ladies Night; Al Berry led the East Hillsborough Chamber of Commerce kickoff for its Membership Drive at a rallying luncheon; the Lake-

land Social Singles Club feasted at its Annual Luau; and the local chapter of the National Secretaries Association honored its Secretary of the Year at a Menehunes luncheon. By August 1978 Menehunes began advertising as Menehunes Disco Lounge. At some point business fell off. Menehunes Restaurant and Tiki Lounge closed in late 1978 and was sold in 1979. An era of Polynesian atmosphere disappeared from Plant City.

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FOUNDRY COMMERCIAL, ASCENTRIS CLOSE ON SALE OF FIRST PHASE OF LAKESIDE LOGISTICS

Courtesy of Foundry Commercial

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL DUBS 2022 AS ‘#1 FOR FUN!’

The Florida Strawberry Festival announced last week the theme for the 87th annual event was “#1 for FUN!”

Lakeside Logistics Industrial Park’s phase one was recently sold to CBRE Global Investors. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The first phase of Lakeside Logistics Industrial Park has officially been sold to CBRE Global Investors, a real estate assets investment management firm. Foundry Commercial, a full-service real estate service and investment firm, and Ascentris, a real estate private equity firm, were the sellers. Phase I encompasses a 505,160-square-foot, newly constructed, Class A, cross-dock industrial building located on Henderson Way in Plant City. According to Foundry Commercial, “the facility features tiltwall construction, 36’ minimum clear heights, ESFR fire protection, 2,000 AMP (3-phase) power, 303 car parking stalls, 185’ truck court depths with 60’ concrete aprons, LED interior and exterior lighting, and 50’ x 48’ column spacing.” “Despite a pandemic, we pushed forward with the development of Lakeside Logistics, knowing demand continues

to outpace supply in one of the most active industrial markets in the southeast,” Moses Salcido, SIOR, Principal of Development & Investments for Foundry Commercial, said. “We feel fortunate to have partnered with Ascentris and Lakeside’s land ownership in delivering a successful execution.” This news came shortly after Foundry announced it had begun construction on Phase II at Lakeside Logistics, which will consist of two additional buildings totaling 414,000 square feet. Once complete, the two phases will comprise more than one million square feet. Salcido told the Observer they hope to deliver the two buildings in the next 10 to 12 months and are aiming for an April/May 2022 timeframe for opening. Unlike Phase I, Phase II will feature two smaller buildings, which Salcido said will be perfect for tenants that are searching for decent sized buildings, but that don’t need a massive warehouse. He added there are at least two more phases, potentially even three, planned for the Industrial Park.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The Florida Strawberry Festival has chosen to highlight its focus on building memories and having a ball with the announcement last week that the theme for 2022 was “#1 for FUN!” Each year the festival picks a new theme to structure its event around. This upcoming year features a berry wearing a festival ball-cap, shades and sporting a number one foam finger. Of course it’s also clutching a massive plate of the legendary strawberry shortcake. “Our festival and the city of Plant City hold the strawberry in high regard,” President Paul Davis said. “We’re #1 for wholesome family fun and excitement!” The theme not only creates a unique experience for the patrons to take part in as they attend the 11-day event, it also acts as a unifying platform for vendors, FFA chapters, organizations, corporate partners and exhibitors who decorate

their displays at the festival and create parade floats as an homage to the theme. This will be the 87th annual Florida Strawberry Festival, which is held each year to celebrate the strawberry harvest of Eastern Hillsborough County. The 2022 festival will be held March 3 to March 13. Nearly 500,000 people flock through the gates each year to enjoy the headline entertainment, rides, delectable food, variety of youth agriculture shows and the wide range of unique exhibits. “We feel like this is a theme other fairs and festivals, in our profession, can relate to,” Davis said. “Like most fairs and festivals, the Florida Strawberry Festival represents a piece of Americana, a time in American history when events like ours brought communities together to celebrate the harvest and that’s #1 in our book!” For more information, visit www. flstrawberryfestival.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (#berryfest22).

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

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.

MILLIE: This 4 to 5 year old Beagle, was recently adopted by Jane and Phil Gregory from the Tampa Humane Society. They have not had her long, but said it is amazing how well they have adapted to each other. Millie is a very mellow young lady and her new parents encourage anyone looking to adopt a pet to go to the Humane Society of Tampa. “Just walk among the many aisles of animals and that one that you have been thinking about will look you in the eye and you will feel this large tug of your heart and you will instantly know that someone new is coming home with you.”

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USEFUL VW TIGUAN A STANDOUT IN NAME AND SPIRIT!

NITISH S. RELE

After a massive overhaul just three years ago (revamped power train, more cabin space and a standard third-row seat), the VW Tiguan remains largely as is for 2021. Under the hood sits a turbo, intercooled and direct-injected 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder engine putting out 184 horsepower @ 4360 rpm and 221 pounds-feet of torque @ 1600 rpm. Quick off the mark, responding with agility in any situation, this second-generation SUV is equipped with a flawless 8-speed auto gearbox. Ensconced on the unitary body, available as a front-wheel or all-wheel- drive version, is a robust and reliable strut-type front and a multilink rear suspension. The electro-mechanical speed-sensitive power steering is quick and communicative to result in a positive on-center response. Horizontal halogen headlights and LED daytime running lights surround the centered VW crest on the grille. The SE R-Line Black version, our test drive for the week, fetches you roof rails, bumpers and headliners (all in black, of course!) as well as exclusive R-Line badging inside and out. The gorgeous cabin exemplifies European styling and flair with a simple but elegant instrument panel of large analog speedometer and tachometer gauges and a centered driver information center. Fold flat the 40/20/40 rear seat, which slides forward 7 inches, and the trunk area becomes generous. Offered standard

in FWD models only, the two-passenger 50/50 third- row folds down. Passenger volume is praiseworthy at 123.9 cubic feet. Niceties include an 8-inch touch screen for audio, nav and phone controls, panoramic sun roof, dual auto a/c with second-row air vents, three-spoke leather tilt/telescopic steering column, 10-way power driver and six-way frontpassenger manual seats, and a power lift gate. Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, electronic stability with anti-slip regulation and engine brake assist, traction control, lane departure and forward collision warning, blind spot monitor, rear traffic alert, park distance control, three-point seatbelts for all positions, adaptive cruise control, rearview camera, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard. The Tiguan sticks out in the swarming compact SUV field, thanks to a sprightly engine, exceptional handling and balance, everyday practicality and decent fuel economy. As for its odd-sounding name, look at it as a boon for once. It’s German for ‘tiger’ and ‘iguana.’ Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabay. com and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.

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Photo courtesy of Nitish S. Rele

TIGUAN SE R-LINE BLACK (FWD) Tires: 255/40R20 H, all-season Wheelbase: 109.8 inches Length: 185.1 inches Width: 72.4 inches Height: 66.3 inches Weight: 3,735 pounds Fuel capacity: 15.9 gallons City: 23 mpg Highway: 29 mpg Base price: $30,595 Price as tested: $31,790 Web site: www.vw.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

SPORTS

PLANT CITY VOLLEYBALL WINS THRILLER OVER ROBINSON

Around Town Scoreboard

Despite teetering on the brink of defeat, the Raiders charged back to claim victory and a 2-0 record.

FOOTBALL Friday, Aug. 27 Plant City: 0 Tampa Bay Tech: 34 Sumner: 6 Durant: 22 Alonso 25 Strawberry Crest 0

VOLLEYBALL Tuesday, Aug. 24 Durant: 1 Strawberry Crest: 3

Thursday, Aug. 26 Armwood: 0 Durant: 3 Plant City: 3 King: 0 Strawberry Crest: 3 Sumner: 2 Monday, Aug. 30: Robinson: 2 Plant City: 3 Tuesday, Aug. 31 Durant: 1 Sumner: 3 Chamberlain: 0 Strawberry Crest: 3 Newsome: 3 Plant City: 0

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Plant City volleyball narrowly escaped with a victory over Robinson on Monday night, moving to 2-0 in a season that comes with lofty expectations. With a tied match after four sets, all of them coming right down to the wire, the two teams headed to a fifth and final set to 15. In that final set Robinson began to pull away early, taking an 11-7 lead and needing just four points to secure victory. Moments later, despite a push from Plant City, Robinson had held on to a commanding 14-11 lead. But the Raiders battled back. Plant City was able to tie it at 14-14, forcing a tiebreaker situation where either team would have to win by two points to take the match. After standing on the brink of defeat one final time, trail-

ing 15-14, the Raiders rallied valiantly to take the 18-16 victory and move to 2-0 on the season. The hot start for Plant City comes on the heels of a 13-3 season in 2020 where their year ended with a 3-2 loss to Hillsborough in the regional semifinals. But with an experienced team that includes four seniors and a new coach in Jazlyn Vereen at the helm, Plant City has high hopes for 2021. Sara Tooman previously served as the varsity head coach for several years but opted to relinquish the position following a promotion to department head of Plant City’s physical education department, although she still assists with the program. Vereen joined PCHS’ staff as a physical education teacher and subsequently took over the varsity coaching duties. “I definitely wanted to coach volleyball, I have a huge passion for volleyball,” Vereen said about joining Plant City’s staff.

“So to be able to coach as well as teach what I want to teach is awesome.” Vereen played volleyball at Riverview High School and club volleyball at the University of South Florida where she recently graduated from their College of Education. She volunteered with Riverview’s volleyball team for one year in 2016, working with both the varsity and junior varsity teams, and is also a new addition to the coaching staff at the Hurricane Volleyball Academy in Brandon. “I couldn’t ask for a better group of girls, honestly,” Vereen said following the win. “They’re great, they’ve got passion, they’re willing to fight.” But the road won’t be easy for Plant City. Moving from division 6A to 7A this year, the Raiders now find themselves in a district that includes Newsome High School and Riverview High School, teams that handed Plant City their only two regular season losses in 2020.

DURANT’S VARNUM NOTCHES FIRST WIN AS HEAD COACH

New head coach Claybo Varnum got his first win as Durant defeated Sumner on Friday. TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Head coach Claybo Varnum has lived and breathed Durant football for years. The field house bears his last name and he can recall cheering on the Cougars at just eight years old when they made a run to the State Final Four in 2003. He played four years of football at Durant, graduated from the school in 2011 and immediately started his coaching career there, working with the junior varsity team. He joined Durant’s faculty as a teacher in 2015 and has continued coaching in some capacity since. In January he was named the newest head coach following an 18-year tenure from former coach Mike Gottman. Spring football and summer workouts came and went and Durant even added a big win over Freedom in their preseason game. But the moment that Varnum said it all really sank in for him was standing in the locker room on Friday night, music blasting and players getting fired up for their opening contest against Sumner, just moments before he led the team out of the tunnel for the first time. “Right before we ran out of the tunnel, we’re in there and the music’s playing, the kids are loud, those lights came on and I’m

standing at the front of the line,” Varnum said. “In that moment it just kind of hit me. It had, but really in that moment I thought, ‘OK, this is it. This is what you wanted, this is what you pray for and you got it.’ Then running them out of that tunnel and onto the field, it had me going. From then I kind of settled in, when you’re coaching you’re just kind of in that mode, but definitely running out of the field house with the boys and onto the field, that was special. That was a good feeling for me.” The game itself was a hard-fought win. Durant found the end zone on their first drive of the game and converted a twopoint conversion to take an early 8-0 lead, but the game’s next points wouldn’t come until the fourth quarter. Sumner finally got on the board late but a missed extra point left them trailing 8-6 before Durant’s offense came alive and scored on both of the next two drives. Durant completed just one pass for 21 yards but tallied 276 rushing yards, led by junior running back Calub Connell (155 rushing yards and two touchdowns) and senior quarterback Marcus Miguele (85 rushing yards). “We knew this from JV last year, that’s why we moved (Connell) to running back, but he is a gamer,” Varnum said. “He is a

dude that is going to fight and claw and give you everything he’s got and he did. And so explosive, his two touchdowns were both over 25 yards. He broke the first line and he’s so explosive that the secondary couldn’t catch him so having him in that role was huge. Then Marcus too, Marcus had a great game running the ball.” Connell is leading Durant’s backfield in the absence of starting running back Alex Daley, who is currently out with an injury. Defensively the Cougars were supported by a wide variety of impact players. Durant totaled three sacks up front while senior inside linebackers Jacob Reed and Austin Bovee combined for 20 total tackles and four tackles for loss. Reed also added a rushing touchdown to go along with four carries for 19 yards. In the defensive backfield, Durant snatched two scoring opportunities from the hands of Sumner with interceptions from freshman Jayden Cornelius and sophomore Jayden Forte, both coming inside of their own five yard line. “We’re so young on defense and we’ve got great players but when you’ve got guys who have never done it under the lights before you’re nervous because you don’t know how they’re going to show up in the big time,” Varnum said. “And they played

typical Durant defense. Very unrelenting. Even when we had big gains against us we’d settle down and collect ourselves, we had two giant interceptions.” Varnum had heard all of the talk leading up to Friday’s contest. Sumner was a good team, he was inexperienced, the roster was largely inexperienced, they were coming off of a rocky 2020 season, but none of that talk mattered between the first whistle and the clock hitting zeroes. “First of all, it felt cold from the Gatorade hitting me,” Varnum said about the moments immediately following his first win. “It was just such a relief. I’m real critical of myself and the things that I can control so this was a hard week. I was very critical of myself, of our team, of our coaches and to have that relief of seeing zeroes, to see we had won, it felt like a 1,000-pound weight had been pulled off of my shoulders. It was a really, really special feeling. Our principal came up and spoke to the boys after the game, he gave me the game ball, one of my favorite songs — Easy by The Commodores — was playing over the loudspeaker, my whole family being there, it was special. I don’t think that I could have written it any better.”

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

TAMPA BAY TECH RUNS AWAY WITH BIG WIN OVER PLANT CITY The Raiders’ inexperience proved costly in their Week 1 loss. TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

In a big Week 1 matchup between Plant City and Tampa Bay Tech, the Titans came out on top in a 34-0 shutout, a game in which the Raiders’ lack of experience across the roster showed. Tampa Bay Tech received the ball first and Plant City’s defense came out strong. A sack on third down forced the Titans to line up in punt formation following their first drive and a blocked punt on the ensuing play left the Raiders with great field position, down inside the Tech 25-yard line. Plant City worked their way inside of the five, facing a first and goal, but ultimately stalled out and had to settle for a field goal attempt that then missed wide. On the Titans’ second drive, defensive penalties proved problematic for the Raiders. Near midfield, facing a third-and-7, an encroachment penalty gave Tech a manageable third down that they would convert on a short pass to keep the drive alive. A few plays later the Raiders committed another costly penalty on third down, jumping offside to give the Titans a free first down. Then came one more big penalty from Plant City on the drive, a personal foul while backed up in their own red zone that gave the Titans a first-and-goal from the eight-yard line. Tech running back James Evans scored off of an inside handoff on the next play,

his first of three touchdowns on the night, for a 7-0 lead. The Raiders went three and out on the following drive and Tech responded with a touchdown. The Titans added one more score in the first half and found the end zone two more times in the third quarter to seal the 34-0 final. Plant City’s defense was a bright spot from a gloomy game, early at least. They looked physical and fast to start, but penalties and short fields proved too much to overcome before the game began to slip away. The Raiders’ offense on the other hand understandably lacked consistency, with a junior quarterback making his first varsity start and every receiver who hauled in any of their 20 receiving touchdowns last season lost to graduation. And all things considered, Tech was a tough first test as the Titans finished last season with an 8-4 record and a run to the regional finals. The Raiders will look to get back on track this Friday as they return to Plant City to take on the Jefferson Dragons for their first home game of the 2021 season.

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

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

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We asked Plant City: If you could bring any new restaurant to Plant City, what restaurant would you choose? “Bonefish Grill. Superior customer service and classy! I love white tablecloth dining.” - Cathy Coushaine

town wonder but jazz it up some. Bring some new money to this town.” - Sarah N. Miller

“Dave and Busters, Fun Machine, Chuck E. Cheese, get something for these kids to do.” - Latanya Sutton

“Fresh Kitchen, something a little more upscale, Texas Roadhouse, a great brunch spot!” - Dawna Gay

“Something healthy, like healthy healthy. We already have enough drive through garbage. I also think someone should open a jazzy brunch spot. There’s a market for that here in Plant City. Not your typical Fred’s, Wooden Spoon, Denny’s type of food. Something more creative and inside decor to die for. I think we’d also benefit from a nice cigar/martini bar. It’s time for Plant City to catch up a bit. We can remain a small

“I would like to see a good steak house maybe one that gets its beef from a local ranch. Something that puts out small town vibes. I can eat at chain restaurants anywhere. But when I travel I love to find the local places that make you feel part of the community.” - Dean Davis

“How about something closer to fine dining with an extensive bar and nice wine list? Oh yeah, and great food too!” - Aimee Hubay

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

Cary Mac Fewox, 79, of Dover, Fla., born in Miami on Oct. 31, 1941, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 19, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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Calvin M. Odom Calvin M. Odom, 17, of Plant City, Fla., born in Tampa on Aug. 23, 2003, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 22, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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Susan Elizabeth Chancey Susan Elizabeth Chancey, 59, of Plant City, Fla., born in Tampa on Feb. 1, 1962, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 24, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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Pedro Flores Mendez Pedro Flores Mendez, 64, of Mulberry, Florida, born Dec. 10, 1956 in Santa Maria Del Rio, San Luis Potosi, Mexico, entered into eternal rest Aug. 25, 2021.

Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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Thomas ‘J.R.’ Harper, Jr.

Juana Collazo Arroyo

Juana Collazo Arroyo, 103, of Dover, Fla., born Oct. 22, 1917 in Maunabo, PR, died at home Friday, Aug. 27, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

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Alicia Nicole

Reverend W. Floyd YarEllison brough, 88, of Plant City, Fla., born in Sumner, Ga. on Alicia Nicole Ellison, 37, of Sep. 27, 1932, entered into Dover, Fla., born in Tampa on eternal rest on Aug. 27, 2021. Oct. 20, 1983, entered into Expressions of condolence eternal rest on Aug. 21, 2021. at HopewellFuneral.com. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com. HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Rickie Earl Sapp

Larry Allen Mittan, Sr.

Betty “Dodo” Edenfield, 66, of Lithia, Fla., born in Atlanta, Ga. on Sep. 1, 1954, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 21, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

Larry Allen Mittan, Sr., 62, of Mulberry, Fla., born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on Dec. 4, 1958, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 20, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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Thomas “J.R.” Harper, Jr., Jean Jent of Plant City, Fla., born in on July 2, 1991, entered into Jean Jent, 83, of Plant City, eternal rest on Aug. 20, 2021. Fla., born in Texas on June Expressions of condolence 22, 1938, entered into eternal at HopewellFuneral.com. rest on Aug. 24, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Reverend W. Floyd Yarbrough

Betty ‘Dodo’ Edenfield

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Elayna Mae Bentrovato

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

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Elayna Mae Bentrovato, 25, of Plant City, Fla., forHoward merly of Mulberry, born in Brandon on April 22, 1996, Maxson Jr. entered into eternal rest on Aug. 13, 2021. Howard Maxson Jr., 63, of Expressions of condolence Dover, Fla., passed away on at HopewellFuneral.com Aug. 29, 2021. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haught.care.

Lorene Lawson

OBITUARIES

Cary Mac Fewox

Lorene Lawson, 98, of Plant City, Fla., passed away on Aug. 27, 2021. Funeral services were held Aug. 31, 2021 at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

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Edna Barber

Edna Barber, 76, of Plant City, Fla., passed away on Aug. 27, 2021. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haught.care.

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ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

Rickie Earl Sapp, 60, of Plant City, Fla., born on Dec. Patricia Gonzalez 18, 1960, entered into eterPatricia Gonzalez, 71, of nal rest on Aug. 23, 2021. Auburndale, Florida, born on Expressions of condolence August 25, 1949 in San Beniat HopewellFuneral.com. to, Texas entered into eternal rest on August 21, 2021. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral. com. HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

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

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

Cesar Armando Cardenas

and Josephine Hayes. He was proud to have served our country as an aircraft mechanic in the United States Air Force Cesar Armando from 1962-1966 at Clark Cardenas, 31, of Airbase in the Philippines Plant City, Fla., during the Vietnam War. passed away on Personally, he enjoyed Aug. 24, 2021. many happy hours of flight The family will time as an instrumentreceive friends rated, multi-engine private Friday, Sep. 3, 2021 pilot. His other passions from 10 to 11 a.m. were good friends, golf and at Haught Funeral encouraging everyone he Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. met, especially children. Martin Luther King Jr. The family will receive Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. friends on Saturday, Sep. Funeral services will follow 4, 2021, from 10 to 11 a.m. at 11 a.m. at the Plant City Church Online condolences may of God, 2103 Mud Lake be left for the family at Road. A celebration of life www.haught.care. service will follow at 11 a.m. in the church sanctuary where it’s hoped friends will HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM wear patriotic clothing. In respect and care for all in attendance, masks will be provided. Online condolences may be shared at www.haught. care and in lieu of flowers, donations to the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa would be meaningful. RJ was a patriot, though and through.

OBITUARIES

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021 preceded in death by husband, Kenneth E. George; parents, Charles and Ethel Wetherington; siblings, Virginia Light, Brewer, Charles, Ronald, and Ralph; and son-in-law, Richard Barker. She is survived by daughters, Patricia Evans (Mike) of Plant City, and Kathleen Barker of Tampa; grandson, Devin Evans (Katrina) of Lakeland; and great-granddaughter, Ryleigh Evans of Lakeland. The family will always be grateful for the loving and compassionate care that was given by Hawthorne Inn and Cornerstone Hospice Care. Interment at Flagler Memorial Park, Miami. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

YOUR CALENDAR

BEST BET SATURDAY, SEP. 10 PARENT’S NIGHT OUT 6 to 10 p.m. at 301 Dort St. Plant City Parks & Rec is announcing a new Parent’s Night Out program at the Planteen Recreation Center starting in September. Kids from five to 12 are invited on the second Friday of the month to join the rec center for pizza, games, crafts, a movie and snacks. The cost is $15 per child and $10 for each additional sibling. Please contact the Planteen Recreation Center early to reserve your space as sports are limited. Schedule themes include: Sep 10: Adventureland Oct. 8: Haunted Mansion Nov. 12: Chocolate Factory Dec. 10: Home Sweet Home Holiday

THURSDAY, SEP. 2 HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS

7:30 to 9 a.m. Join the Plant City Toastmasters for breakfast, laughs, and fun; there's no better way to start your Thursday mornings. Bring a chair and a mask. The Toastmasters also offer Zoom meetings for those who can’t make it in person. Visit the Facebook page, facebook.com/PlantCityToastmasters, for meeting locations and information.

FRIDAY, SEP. 3 HAYES DAVIS LIVE

R. J. Johnston

R. J. Johnston, 77, of Plant City, Fla. went to his eternal home in heaven on Aug. 21, 2021. Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Cheryl Johnston; sons Shannon Johnston and Joe (Andrea) Hayes; five siblings in Alabama - Mary Ruth Haynes, Gerald Johnston, Jimmy Johnston, Carolyn Minter, and Caffey Radney; in-laws Peggy Meek of Bradenton and Paula and Wesley Gamble of Brooksville, along with many beloved nieces and nephews. RJ’s delight was in his six grandchildren – Trevor Johnston, Haley Hayes, Karaline Hayes, Trent Johnston, and the two youngest, Estelle Hayes

7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Head to the loft at Krazy Kup for an evening of acoustic blues rock with the debut of "Hayes Davis". The duo of accomplished and talented musicians will serve up a show you don't want to miss, covering bands such as the Black Crowes, Eagles, Jackson Brown and more. There is no listed cost for admission, however a “love offering” will be collected.

SATURDAY, SEP. 4

Joann B. George

Joann B. George nee Wetherington, 90, of Lakeland, and formerly of Plant City, born in Miami on September 25, 1930, entered into eternal rest on August 20, 2021. She was a member of Turkey Creek Baptist Church. She was

BLUEGRASS JAM!

7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. This is an open invitation for local Bluegrass musicians and fans to come to the Krazy Kup loft and jam, clap hands, stomp feet and enjoy! Krazy Kup holds their Bluegrass JAM the first Saturday of every month.

TUESDAY, SEP. 7 TEENS TEACH TECH FOR 21STCENTURY SENIORS

4 to 5 p.m. Who knows the latest technology better than teenagers? All seniors looking to learn how to navigate the Internet and keep up with an everchanging digital world can learn from the best every Tuesday afternoon at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St. Call 813-659-4256 for more information.

WEDNESDAY, SEP. 8 FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY VETERANS

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served any time in the military, retired or non-retention, and would like to review your benefits please take advantage of free assistance at the Bing House Museum, 205 Allen St., every Wednesday. Walk-ins welcomed or call 813-704-5800 to set a specific time.

SUNSET SOUNDS

6 to 8 p.m. at 5202 Thonotosassa Rd. Sunset Sounds is a summer music series featuring acoustic music from local artists. Head over to Keel & Curley Winery every Wednesday evening to enjoy music, food, drinks and sunshine on their patio.

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IN JO ODAY! T

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FORECAST

Send your photo submissions to staff writer Taylor Jenkins at tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

THURSDAY, SEPT 2 High: 83 Low: 73 Chance of rain: 85%

FRIDAY, SEPT 3 High: 86 Low: 72 Chance of rain: 35%

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Sept 2

7:07a

7:48p

Friday, Sept 3

7:08a

7:47p

Saturday, Sept 4

7:08a

7:45p

Sunday, Sept 5

7:09a

7:44p

Monday, Sept 6

7:09a

7:43p

Tuesday, Sept 7

7:10a

7:42p

Wednesday, Sept 8

7:10a

7:41p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, SEPT 4 High: 90 Low: 72 Chance of rain: 37%

SUNDAY, SEPT 5 High: 90 Low: 73 Chance of rain: 24%

MONDAY, SEPT 6 Dale Tetro took this photo of an alligator in his backyard pond at Windmill Point in Plant City.

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High: 89 Low: 73 Chance of rain: 41%

Across 1 Architectural recess 5 Good enough 9 Grad 13 “A New Day Has Come” singer 14 Like Erté’s art 15 Compensate 17 Full of anticipation 18 Subject to being wiped out 20 Source of some TV content 22 Kardashian matriarch 23 “We __ alone” 25 Genetic connection 27 Bridge protectors 30 Promotional giveaways

32 Explosive initials 33 “Bob’s Burgers” sibling 35 Fellows 36 Sports bet based on total points scored ... or a hint to answering four puzzle clues 39 Chamonix peak 41 Retro ski resort sight 42 Inexact no. 45 Like a busy chimney sweep’s clothes 47 Collide with 50 Impediment to walking down a hallway 52 Bleeping editor 53 Hawkeye State campus town

55 Recommendation for better health 58 Evil fairy played by Angelina Jolie 61 Kurylenko of “Quantum of Solace” 62 In a heap 63 Bravo preceder 64 It’s not optional 65 Tibetan honorific 66 Alka-Seltzer jingle word 67 International gas brand Down 1 Hardheaded 2 Blast furnace output 3 With the least delay 4 Word with steam or fire

5 Many a poem by Sharon Olds 6 NBA coach Steve 7 Amazon berry 8 Alpine song 9 Continuing story line 10 Source of inside info, perhaps 11 Criticize severely 12 Casts in a bad light 16 Green lights 19 “You sure of that?” 21 Soak (up) 24 Thames gallery 26 African river to the Mediterranean 28 Topsoil 29 Treats with disdain 31 Hammer home? 34 Uptight 36 Go (for) 37 Nair rival that originally had “N” as its first letter 38 Horror icon, for short 39 Web service since 1993 40 Parsons of old Hollywood gossip 42 Stores on a farm 43 Trio in funny shorts 44 Storm often chased 45 Mischief-maker 46 “Sorry Not Sorry” singer Lovato 48 “Give __ break!” 49 Chant 51 Summarize 54 Come across as 56 Inspiron maker 57 Lowdown 59 HHS agency 60 Touchscreen touch

Sep. 6 New

Sep. 13 First

Sep. 20 Full

Sep. 28 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

0.36 in.

0.00 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

SEP. AVERAGE:

36.66 in.

AVOCADO Shipping point: South Florida $12.00-$27.00

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

7.09 in.

WEATHER

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