4.8.21 PLCO

Plant City Observer

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YOUR HOMETOWN. YOUR NEWSPAPER

VOLUME 6, NO. 140

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COMMISH ROUNDUP:

PLANT CITY STADIUM APPROVED AS VACCINATION SITE

Commissioners agreed to enter an agreement with Hillsborough County to use the parking lot of the Plant City Stadium as a vaccination site.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Early next week, folks may be able to get vaccinated at Plant City Stadium following an agreement between city commissioners and Hillsborough County’s Office of Emergency Management.

During the last commission meeting, commissioners agreed to allow the county’s Office of Emergency Management to use the parking lot at the stadium as a COVID-19 vaccination Point of Dispensing for the general public. The user agreement has the stadium potentially beginning to be used as a site starting April 12 and the use period would continue as needed, possibly through Aug. 31.

FREE • THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

Though the agreement has been approved, the details have yet to be finalized regarding the site.

You can monitor the county’s COVID-19 portal for more information regarding the opening of the location. If enough vaccines are available to open the site, it will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday and will operate as a drive-thru.

Those who want to get vaccinated through the county need to sign up in advance. First, create an account with CDR Health Pro by visiting patientportalfl.com. Then select from the available appointments for your first dose and your second dose appointment will be automatically assigned.

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A ‘HOPPY’ EASTER Hundreds of kids flocked to Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex Saturday morning to take part in the annual City-Wide Easter Egg Hunt, which went back to an in-person event for the first time since 2019.

SEE PAGE 6

NEWS BRIEFS

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THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

Future Career Academy to host countywide job fair

Hillsborough County high school seniors, job-seeking adults and employers looking for staff can link up at the upcoming 2021 Future Career Fair, hosted by the Plant City-based Future Career Academy in conjunction with CareerSource Tampa Bay. This year’s event, which runs from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. April 22, is completely virtual due to COVID-19. It’s got a multi-faceted schedule to accommodate all job seekers, though the primary focus will be on high school seniors from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. All job seekers in the general public, regardless of age, will start their reserved time slot at 3:30 p.m. and go until 5:30 p.m.

“Very similar to a face-to-face job fair, where people walk up to each booth, gather brochures and ask questions, at this virtual event seekers will be able to search the online event site (by industry, location, minority and women-owned businesses), view videos and visit websites,” Future File photo Career Academy said in a press release.

Future Career Academy was started at Plant City High School and has since expanded to include seniors at all Hillsborough County public high schools.

The program teaches seniors who aren’t college-bound “how to prepare for and find meaningful work, training, certifications, internships and jobs with lifelong growth potential right out of high school,” per the press release. “Businesses gain prepared, competent young workers who remain in the county and contribute to building industries and the area’s economic wellbeing.”

The job fair is completely free and all job seekers can pre-register online at thefuturecareeracademy.com. Employers who are currently hiring and wish to participate can also sign up at the FCA website.

HCPS announces two new prepaid scholarships

Lifeguard courses available at YMCA

Two students in the Hillsborough County Public Schools system will be selected for a pair of new scholarships provided by the Florida Prepaid College Program.

Though the combined total of the scholarships is $9,000, almost all of that money — $8,000 — is reserved for the Superintendent Addison Davis’ Future of STEM Scholarship. One high school senior who plans to study to become a teacher in a STEM subject will be awarded this twoyear Florida College Plan.

“It is so exciting to provide this two-year scholarship for our future STEM teachers in Hillsborough County Public Schools,” Larry Plank, the district’s Director of K-12 STEM Education, said in a press release. “This valuable reward for one of our best and brightest students will in turn inspire future learners for years to come.”

The remaining $1,000 will go toward the Superintendent Addison Davis’ Preparing Students for Life Scholarship, which will be awarded to one student by way of a random drawing. This is a Florida 529 Savings Plan. Parents or guardians of incoming Kindergarten students will be able to sign up at a Kindergarten registration event or if they begin the registration process before April 30.

“Our district, along with Florida Prepaid College Program, is thrilled to have the opportunity to offer scholarships for one soon-to-be graduate, as well as a new learner ready to embark on his or her educational journey within Hillsborough County Public Schools,” Davis said in a press release. “These scholarships will champion our future leaders by assisting them financially in reaching their educational goals. This partnership truly recognizes the entire spectrum of work our educators perform here in this district.”

Visit https://bit.ly/HCPSscholarship for more information about the two scholarships.

The Plant City Family YMCA and the rest of the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA network is getting ready to host a series of American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification courses.

Individuals age 15 and up can register and learn how to prevent drowning and save lives in the pool. Activities to compete include a 300-yard swim, two minutes of treading water with no hands, and a nine-foot dive to retrieve a 10-pound brick.

The course “provides participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies and to provide care for breathing and cardiac emergencies and other injuries and illnesses,” per a press release. There are also CPR, AED, First Aid and other training courses available.

“The Tampa YMCA is excited to collaborate with the American Red Cross to add these vital courses to the list of programs we offer to ensure the safety of the community,” Tampa YMCA Aquatics Executive Amanda Walker said in a press release.

“As a part of the Tampa YMCA’s drowning prevention programs, offering these lifesaving courses to the communities we serve is one more step in reaching our goal of helping Tampa Bay residents be as safe as possible in and around the water.”

The cost for the lifeguarding course is $165 for YMCA members and $225 for non-members. Spots are limited. Register at tampaymca.org/programs/swim-programs/lifeguard-certification.

Keel Farms hosting month-long U-pick Anyone who wants fresh, delicious blueberries is in luck as blueberry season kicks off this month.

Keel Farms, 5202 Thonotosassa Road, is now offering a daily U-pick throughout this entire month. Attendees only have to pay for their blueberries by the pound — parking and admission are both free.

Visit keelfarms.com or call 813-752-9100 for more information about the U-pick and other events hosted on the grounds, which include live music, trivia nights, yoga classes and much more.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

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‘DO YOU REMEMBER, NEVER A CLOUDY DAY’ The community is invited out to the Earth, Wind & Garden Celebration, a new event at the Plant City Commons Community Garden to celebrate Earth Day.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

In honor of Earth Day, the Plant City Commons Community Garden is hosting a new, unique event.

The Earth, Wind & Garden Celebration will allow the community to take a peek at one of Plant City’s best-kept secrets. The garden, located at 2001 E. Cherry St., has beds for its members to grow their own fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers as well as a greenhouse and aquaponics lab for workshops and unique events. But the property is also home to the botanical garden, which is open from sunup to sundown for the community to enjoy.

“It really amazes me that I still meet so many people that don’t know we have a botanical garden or community garden here,” Shannon Shearer, treasurer of PCCCG, said. “It belongs to the whole community. We don’t have anything else like this in town and I hope by continuing to have events like our Earth Day celebration, we will spread the word that this hidden gem is here and open to everyone. We don’t have anything else like this in town and the garden really belongs to the whole community.”

Shearer said that during a board meeting for PCCCG, the group discussed what they should do to honor Earth Day. It was important to all of them to host a special event, so they decided to roll out the red carpet and bring a massive outdoor event to the garden.

The event is completely free and will have music, food, workshops, children’s activities, vendors, garden tours, a plant sale and more. Shearer said there will be a sensory scavenger hunt for the children who arrive that will ask them to “touch something soft” or “smell something sweet.” MAKE Plant City will also be on site to host a mural painting for the youth.

Starting at 11 a.m. and running every hour until 2 p.m., the PCCCG will also have free demos available to bring an educational aspect to the fun day. There will be food demos, garden demos and plant demos. The Plant City Water Resource Department will be giving a free workshop on being water wise in our yards. UF IFAS will host a workshop on summer soil.

Shearer, who is also a prominent chef in the community, will lead a demonstration on how to use lettuce — which was grown

at the garden in the aquaponics lab — to make healthy lettuce wraps. There will also be a demonstration on how to harvest lemongrass from the plant and transform it into a delicious tea.

Vendors will be spread throughout the garden. They include The Whoopie Pie Guys from Lakeland, who sell whoopie pies and dips, and Umami Smoke, a local food truck known for its delectable Asian/ Southern fusion cooking. Shearer will also be on site with vegetarian and vegan food options including magic noodles, which are dyed blue naturally via plants and turn purple when a special sauce is added to the mix.

Other experiences will include a PCCCG member selling raised planter boxes, a vendor selling bird houses made from teapots, Thai yoga, local artist Jeremy Rivera hosting his works and more. Attendees can also take part in a plant sale at the event that will feature both edibles and ornamentals. You can pick up everything from tomato and pepper plants to unique, one-off plants featured at the event. Jarrett-Scott Ford will have electric vehicles on site and the botanical gardens will be open for tours.

“We only have one Earth and we need to take care of it,” Shearer said. “The more plants and trees we can grow the better our environment, our air quality, our water quality, everything is. The more we take care of our earth, the more our earth will take of us. This is going to be a really fun event for the whole community, but we are also hoping that it makes people reflect for a moment on the environment and what they can do to help make the world a little better.”

The event is sponsored by Suncoast Credit Union, Publix Supermarkets and Jarrett-Scott Ford and will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

IF YOU GO What: Earth, Wind & Garden Celebration Where: 2001 E. Cherry St. When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 10 Cost: Free to attend.

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COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021 ant stated several subjects cut the community’s back fence, causing damage.

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigated

SUGAR, WE’RE GOING DOWN

a price tag swap, a missing purse,

3430 block of Trapnell Ridge Drive Criminal mischief: This complainant stated she believed someone put sugar in her gas tank after finding a crystalline substance around the gas tank door. She decided not to pursue charges and signed a waiver of prosecution.

scammers, stolen lumber, stolen mail and more.

Photo: iStock

MARCH 26

MARCH 29

THAT’S METHED UP

DOUBLE-CHECK THAT DISCOUNT

WOOD YOU PLEASE STOP

2200 block of South Alexander Street Multiple charges: This complainant told officers his vehicle had been stolen. Officers found two female suspects and arrested them on several charges. The driver was charged with grand theft auto, driving while license suspended or revoked, possession of meth and possession of paraphernalia. The other female suspect was charged with possession of meth and possession of prescribed medication without a prescription.

2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway Theft: A male subject removed tags from a selected piece of merchandise and tried to buy it at a lower price. He was busted, arrested, issued a Notice to Appear and then released with paperwork.

MARCH 27 DIRTBIKE BANDIT

2810 block of Wilder Meadows Lane Theft: An unknown suspect stole $758 worth of lumber from a construction site sometime between 1 p.m. March 27 and 6 a.m. March 29.

START ME UP 2600 block of J ames L. Redman Parkway Theft: An officer met with a Walmart Asset Protection Officer, who stated someone stole a motorcycle tank bag and a portable jump starter.

300 block of South Maryland Avenue Vehicle theft: This complainant stated unknown suspect(s) stole a FACEBOOK FRAUDSTER 2021 Gas Gas 85 motorcycle and a 2001 Honda RX70 from the back of her pickup truck. The bikes were 2700 block of Barret Avenue Fraud: This complainant stated he valued together at $7,000. tried to buy a vehicle they found on a Facebook advertisement, but COLD CASH then found out he was scammed.

200 block of North Alexander Street MARCH 30 Fraud: This complainant stated someone used her CashApp acGLITCHING HOUR count information to spend $137.

2510 block of Thonotosassa Road A VERY BAD DAY Theft (possible): This complainant stated she tried to use the 1000 block of ATM at Publix when it froze, and West Madison Street when she returned with manageArmed carjacking: This complain- ment she believed someone could ant stated their vehicle was stolen have stolen cash from her acfrom them at gunpoint. count.

MARCH 31 FINDERS KEEPERS

APRIL 1 THERE’S ONE FOOL 1700 block of North Park Road Criminal mischief: This complainant stated an unknown suspect entered a park restroom and caused approximately $286 in damage.

AIRING IT OUT 2310 block of Walden Place Criminal mischief: This complainant stated an unknown suspect broke out her vehicle’s rear window sometime between March 31 and April 1.

FAKE IT ’TIL YOU MAKE IT 2200 block of Village Park Road Theft: This complainant stated 800 block of she hadn’t seen her purse, which contained $2,000, since March 24. West Dr. MLK Boulevard Fraud: This complainant stated an unknown subject sent an NO FREEBIES HERE email from a fraudulent account, pretending to be the owner of the 2100 block of North Park Road business, asking to send money to Multiple charges: A juvenile subject ordered food from Culver’s another subject. and refused to pay for it. He was SPRING CLEANING later charged with theft, battery and resisting an officer, was taken to the Juvenile Assessment Center 200 block of West Alexander Street without incident and did not Fraud: This complainant stated qualify for the JAAP program. she fell for a scam after receiving a call about all her credit cards FENCE FIENDS being drained. She was told she needed to empty her current bank 2820 block of Holly Bluff Court Criminal mischief: This complain- accounts.

PLANT CITY

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AGREEMENT MADE FOR PLANT CITY STADIUM’S USE AS VACCINATION SITE

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THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

STATE FARM® AGENT

813.752.7202

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

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BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Currently, the county’s public vaccination sites are distributing the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

When you arrive, bring a governmentissued form of identification, proof of Florida residency and a screenshot or printout of your appointment QR code. If applicable, also bring your proper work credentials. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that those who come to get a vaccine wear a mask.

Prior to the opening of the Plant City Stadium location, the three county sites were Vance Vogel Sports Complex in Gibsonton, Ed Radice Sports Complex in Tampa and TPepin’s Hospitality Centre in Tampa.

If you wish to get an appointment at a non-county facility, a variety of healthcare providers also offer the vaccine. You can book one at AdventHealth, BayCare, James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, Suncoast Community Health, Tampa General and USF Health. Check in with each individual entity for its operating procedures.

Pharmacies are also administering free COVID-19 vaccines through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program. Make an appointment at CVS, Publix, Walmart, Walgreens and Winn-Dixie to get the vaccination through those outlets. There is also a federal-run site at the Tampa Greyhound Track, 755 E. Waters Ave., Tampa. At the federal-run FEMA vaccination site, only the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be administered to new appointments. They are, how-

ever, still offering the second dose for prior Pfizer appointments.

It’s important to note the Johnson & Johnson vaccine — as well as the Moderna vaccine — are not approved for children ages 16 and 17. If parents or legal guardians want to get their qualifying teenager vaccinated, they need to go through a county-operated or state-supported site that offers the Pfizer vaccine. Though the 16 and 17-year-olds are eligible for the Pfizer vaccine, their parents and legal guardians must be present at the time the minor goes to get the vaccine. They also must fill out a consent form.

The county announced Tuesday that more than 43,000 first doses were available this week in Hillsborough, which doesn’t include the vaccinations being provided by pharmacies and other health care facilities. Last week, 41,820 people received a COVID-19 vaccine, according to the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County.

This week, vaccinations were made available for those age 16 and older as long as the individual vaccine was permitted for that age group. As of Tuesday, it was announced that approximately 30 percent of Hillsborough County residents age 16 or older have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Approximately 15 percent of all Hillsborough County residents age 16 or older are now fully vaccinated. That number is expected to skyrocket by the next report as appointments have been filled all week long.

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The parking lot of the Plant City Stadium has been approved for use as a www.AllSaintscc.com vaccination site if needed. FROM PAGE 1

CARPETS

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THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

MLK FEST FILLS SADYE GIBBS MARTIN COMMUNITY CENTER LOT 3/25/21 Keiser - Lakeland

The music booming from the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center could be heard throughout downtown as the community gathered for the annual MLK Fest.

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BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The annual MLK Fest drew quite a crowd to the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center Saturday afternoon as Plant City gathered to pay homage and gather together in a time of celebration.

The events kicked off at 1 p.m. with a parade through downtown Plant City. It ended at the community center and then the real party started. There was an open mic where members of the community showed off their skills and a reenactment of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legendary

speech at the Lincoln Memorial in 1963 was performed for the crowd. Many recited along to King’s hopes of one day seeing his dream come to life.

Then the live music began and the vendors cooked up some mouthwatering food.

The festivities lasted all afternoon and the parking lots remained at capacity throughout the experience.

The annual MLK Leadership Breakfast will be held this Sunday morning at the Trinkle Center.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

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THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

EASTER EGG HUNT Though many of the tiny Easter egg hunters wore masks this year as they ran around their “nest” to collect as many shiny eggs as possible, the event remained a massive hit.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Hundreds of kids flocked to Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex Saturday morning to take part in the annual City-Wide Easter Egg Hunt.

The event is held for children ages 3 to 11 years old. More than 10,000 easter eggs are hidden in four “nests” for the divided age groups. Within those nests were golden eggs which provided each lucky winner with a special prize following the hunt. The event also featured Trina’s Trains and Things, Razzmatazz Entertainment and A1 Magic.

The Easter Bunny stopped by for photos

after the children finished picking baskets of eggs.

This year’s golden egg winners were Eliana Ordaz (3-4 Nest), Ximena Rivas (3-4 Nest), Isabella Mejia (5-6 Nest), Aiden Arrona (5-6 Nest), Genaveve Arscott (7-8 Nest), Ripley Johns (7-8 Nest), Kamylo Ruelas (9-11 Nest) and Angel Contras (9-11 Nest).

This event is able to remain free every year to the public thanks to its sponsors: Global Sports Alliance, Publix Super Markets, Plant City Optimist Club, PCHS Key Club, PCHS National Honor Society, Toufayan Bakeries and the Friends of Recreation & Parks.

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SPRING SPORTS FOCUS ON FITNESS: POSTSEASONS NEAR PUSHING PAST PHYSICAL While you can watch all of the high school sports’ playoffs online through the NFHS Network’s web-based streaming service, it’s tough to beat the atmosphere of a live event and that option is available. Here’s what you need to know this year:

BASEBALL District tournaments will begin April 26 and run through April 30. Hosting sites had yet to be determined at press time, so if you’re keeping an eye out remember that Durant plays in Class 7A-District 8 while Plant City and Strawberry Crest are both in Class 6A-District 8. At least one team — the Raiders — expects local district tourney play on April 27 and 30, per the schedule listed on MaxPreps. Tickets will cost $6 per day.

Regional quarterfinals for 6A (including Plant City and Crest) and 7A (including Durant) teams will be held May 7 with semifinals to follow on May 12 and finals on May 15. Admission is $7 per day with hosting sites to be determined by prior game results and seeding.

The state championship series schedule had yet to be determined at press time, but two date windows were set: May 19-22 and May 24-26. As usual, CenturyLink Sports Complex - Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers will host all of the semifinal and championship game action.

Tickets are $9 per day if purchased in advance and $12 at the gate. Parking is $10 per vehicle.

SOFTBALL District tournaments will begin April 26 and run through April 30. Hosting sites had yet to be determined at press time.

All three Plant City-area teams play in Class 6A-District 5, which should make planning much easier if you have several rooting interests. Tickets are $6 per day.

Regional quarterfinals for 6A teams will be held May 5 and 6 with semifinals to follow on May 11 and finals on May 14.

Admission is $7 per day with hosting sites to be determined by prior game results and seeding.

The state championship series schedule had yet to be determined at press time, but the games will take place at Legends Way Ball Fields in Clermont from May 18-22. Tickets are $9 per day if purchased in advance and $12 at the gate. Parking costs were not listed at press time.

FLAG FOOTBALL The Class 2A-District 6 tournament (featuring all three local schools) starts with quarterfinal games on April 20, semifinals on April 21 and finals on April 22, per MaxPreps. Tickets will cost $6 per day. Host schools will be determined by seeding at the season’s end.

Regional semifinals will be held April 28 and championship finals on May 3.

Admission is $7 per day with hosting sites to be determined by prior game results and seeding.

The state championship series will be hosted at Jacksonville-Mandarin High School with semifinals on May 7 and finals on May 8. Tickets are $8 per day if purchased in advance. Parking costs were not listed at press time.

TRACK AND FIELD The Class 4A-District 7 championships, in which all three local boys and girls teams will compete, will be held April 20 at Newsome High School. Admission is $6 per person.

The Region 2 championships will also be held nearby at George Jenkins High School on May 1. Admission is $7 per person.

The Class 4A state championships will be held May 8 at Hodges Stadium at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville.

A complete schedule of events is viewable online at fhsaa.com/sports/2021/4/1/ TRACK_Event%20Schedule.aspx, though all of the action starts at 4 p.m. and ends shortly after 9:20 p.m., with team awards to be handed out at 9:50 p.m. Admission is $12 in advance or $15 at the gate. Both fees cover the cost of parking and all attendees are asked to use Parking Lot 18.

TENNIS The Class 4A-District 6 championships, in which Plant City and Strawberry Crest will compete, will be held at the Winter Haven City Courts with matches starting at 3 p.m. on April 12 and 15. Admission is free.

The Region 3 semifinal and championship sites had yet to be determined at press time, but they are scheduled for April 20 and 22, respectively. Admission is free.

The Class 4A state championships will be held at Sanlando Park in Seminole County from April 28-30, with matches starting at 8 a.m.

AND MENTAL BOUNDARIES

Thinking of writing off an idea for a fitness goal? Don’t knock it until you try it!

Do you ever write something off as impossible or disregard it simply because something inside of us said, “We’ve never done that before, so why bother?”

I’m sure we have all done it at some point in our lives. We protect ourselves from failing merely by not trying. It’s safe and familiar. We don’t usually become aware of it until we are faced with those fears, goals and dreams — and conquer them. We look back and wonder why it took us so long to take the first step to surpass something we have wanted for so long.

In my short time here on Earth, I have come to realize that if I cannot learn to take the baby steps, how would I ever be able to take the big steps? I believe it is vital to our mental, physical and spiritual success to force ourselves out of those comfort zones in order to see growth.

Ten weeks ago, along with friends and co-workers, I started a virtual triathlon training program at the Plant City Family YMCA. Now, anyone who knows me knows I dislike anything that remotely has to do with swimming or cycling.

Just the thought of trying to swim one length of a pool or even sitting on a bike made me cringe — which I know sounds dramatic, but it is the truth. Growing up, the basis of my mental toughness was running, but I got comfortable and safe.

I wanted to stick with what I knew. Why did I sell myself short?

We are all afraid of trying something new whether we like to admit it or not.

With the encouragement and support of those around me, I committed myself to 12 weeks of running, biking and swimming. Little did I realize this program was about to change my way of thinking and love for fitness for the better.

I will admit the first two weeks were tough, but your abilities are limitless when you get yourself out of your comfort zone. I found myself loving to challenge my body to do something it had never done before. It gave me more confidence

in my physical ability than I could have imagined. I had mentally shifted from thinking “I cannot” to thinking “I can.”

Now, 10 weeks later, I can confidently say I have a newfound love for swimming and biking, and I cannot wait to start the next training.

Are you nervous about starting something new? Here are a few tips to help get you started: 1. Follow a plan. Find a plan that fits your schedule and stick to it. We all know one of the hardest parts of starting any physical challenge is figuring out how you are going to create it. Take the hard part out, instead of creating it yourself. Find a plan you like and set a start and end date.

2. Surround yourself with uplifting and likeminded individuals. Have you ever heard the saying “Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future”? Be aware of who you spend your time with. It could be the difference between failure and success.

3. Keep your eyes on the prize. How badly do you want it? Try to look at the bigger picture. Intentionally, remind yourself daily of that goal and do not lose sight.

However, I think the biggest thing I learned is “Don’t knock it until you try it.”

My challenge to you this year is to pick one thing you have written off as something you cannot and/or will not ever do and try it. Who knows — you might surprise yourself!

Hannah Franklin is the Wellness Director at the Plant City Family YMCA.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

PREPS SCOREBOARD BASEBALL APR. 1 Durant 2, Lennard 1 Plant 8, Strawberry Crest 5 APR. 5 Lakeland Christian 12, Strawberry Crest 1 APR. 6 Bloomingdale 3, Durant 2 (eight innings) Plant City 4, Leto 3 Strawberry Crest 17, Armwood 1

SOFTBALL APR. 1 Strawberry Crest 2, Plant 0 APR. 6 Durant 11, Bloomingdale 3 Strawberry Crest 11, Leto 1

FLAG FOOTBALL APR. 1 Durant 13, Bloomingdale 2

APR. 5 Durant 13, Spoto 0 Bloomingdale 13, Plant City 0 APR. 6 Riverview 27, Strawberry Crest 0

UPCOMING GAMES BASEBALL APR. 8 Riverview at Durant, 7 p.m.

Plant City at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

APR. 9 Plant at Plant City, 7 p.m.

APR. 13 Newsome at Durant, 7 p.m.

Armwood at Plant City, 7 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Tampa Bay Tech, 7 p.m.

APR. 15 Durant at Armwood, 7 p.m.

Tampa Bay Tech at Plant City, 7 p.m.

Alonso at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

APR. 17 Steinbrenner at Durant, 10 a.m.

Strawberry Crest at Hillsborough, 10 a.m.

APR. 20 East Bay at Durant, 7 p.m.

Plant City at Robinson, 7 p.m.

APR. 22 Strawberry Crest at Wharton, 7 p.m.

APR. 23 Plant City at Newsome, 7 p.m.

SOFTBALL APR. 8 Durant at Plant City, 7 p.m.

Chamberlain at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

APR. 9 Strawberry Crest at Gaither, 7 p.m.

APR. 12 Strawberry Crest at Durant, 7 p.m.

APR. 13 Newsome at Durant, 7 p.m.

Armwood at Plant City, 7 p.m.

APR. 15 Durant at Armwood, 7 p.m.

Tampa Bay Tech at Plant City, 7 p.m.

Alonso at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

APR. 16 Plant City at George Jenkins, 7 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Middleton, 7 p.m.

APR. 17 Middleton at Durant, 7 p.m.

APR. 19 Strawberry Crest at Wesley Chapel, 7 p.m.

APR. 20 East Bay at Durant, 7 p.m.

Plant City at Robinson, 7 p.m.

APR. 22 Durant at Chamberlain, 7 p.m.

Plant City at Newsome, 7 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Wharton, 7 p.m.

APR. 23 Durant at Wharton, 7 p.m.

FLAG FOOTBALL APR. 8 Plant City at Durant, 7:30 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Lennard, 7:30 p.m.

APR. 12 Middleton at Strawberry Crest, 7:30 p.m.

APR. 15 Newsome at Durant, 7:30 p.m.

Plant City at East Bay, 7 p.m.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

REAL ESTATE

PlantCityObserver.com

MARCH 2021

|

THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

REAL ESTATE

Local March 2021 sales and trend information courtesy of The Crawford Group.

Last month, 103 properties sold at an average price of $278,521 at an average of $147.33 per square foot. The highest price paid for any home during the month was $770,000 and homes were on the market for an average of fewer than 15 days before contract. There was a 24 percent increase in sales over February, though the average price per square foot dipped from $151.80 in February.

In the first quarter of 2021, 252 homes in the Plant City area sold — up from 201 during the first quarter of 2020.

Mitchell Crawford, of the Crawford Group, said the market is moving forward and April “appears to be on track to move higher.”

“Everyone from their sister’s second cousin believes that just because they have a license to sell real estate, they know what they are doing,” Crawford said. “As a buyer or seller, please seek out a real estate professional with experience. Buyers are constantly subjected to multiple-offer situations, and to secure the winning contract your agent needs to be creative, escalation clause, nonrefundable escrow, appraisal gap differences, etc. On the other side, the listing agent needs to know how to explain these options to the seller. A seasoned professional will help navigate through these issues… as we approach the primary selling season of April through September, the activity is only going to get more competitive. Find your seasoned real estate professional. This, I can’t emphasize enough, will save you money and time and give you less stress in the process.”

MARCH 2021 SALES SNAPSHOT The following properties were a sample listed as sold on the Greater Tampa Realtors Association MLS in March 2021.

The home at 708 S. Gibbs St. sold March 8 for $115,000. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 816 square feet of living area.

The home at 1864 Greenwood Valley Drive sold March 1 for $170,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two and a half baths and 1,649 square feet of living area.

The home at 1801 Whitehall St. sold March 25 for $185,000. Built in 1953, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,264 square feet of living area.

The home at 1309 W. Redbud St. sold March 9 for $210,000. Built in 1984 it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,337 square feet of living area.

The home at 1101 E. Ohio St. sold March 22 for $219,900. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,392 square feet of living area.

The home at 4710 Coronet Road sold March 19 for $238,700. Built in 1956, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,584 square feet of living area.

The home at 3211 Pemberly Park Drive sold March 25 for $261,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,676 square feet of living area.

The home at 3320 Michener Place sold March 31 for $270,000. Built in 1998, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,746 square feet of living area.

The home at 3430 San Moise Place sold March 8 for $282,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, two and a half baths and 2,263 square feet of living area.

The home at 1715 Oakwood Estates Drive sold March 30 for $316,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,163 square feet of living area.

The home at 3016 Via Parma St. sold March 30 for $344,500. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,872 square feet of living area.

The home at 1003 W. Mahoney St. sold March 2 for $365,000. Built in 1925, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,513 square feet of living area.

The home at 701 W. Pinedale Drive sold March 2 for $450,000. Built in 1957, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,430 square feet of living area.

The home at 3405 Old Mulberry Road sold March 31 for $680,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, 5.5 baths and 6,798 square feet of living area.

The home at 3206 Polo Place sold March 30 for $770,000. Built in 1996, it has six bedrooms, four and a half baths and 5,224 square feet of living area.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

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YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

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We asked Facebook:

Which issues with local infrastructure, development or construction would you like the city commission to address?

“Railroad overpasses. Many railroad communities like Plant City have them. Being stopped by trains is a very serious issue. Also revisit the mass transit issue. With the rapid growth Plant City is experiencing we need to continue conversations with HART. In Polk County the Citrus Connection reaches every municipality in the county, some much smaller than Plant City in population and Pasco County transit goes to Dade City and Zephyrhills.

Both cities smaller than Plant City as well. Obviously we are behind other neighboring cities when it comes to mass transit.” — Paul Rodney “Park Road” — Kimberly Morton “I would like inexpensive reclaimed water available in residential areas.” — Dave Buyens “Flooding on N. Collins St. Water goes up and over sidewalk. Worried about rainy season which is coming soon.”

— Vicky Whitcomb

“Public Transportation” — Chris Murphy Elliott “I second public transportation!” — Lisa Diaz “Roads please address the roads” — Larry Forbes “The potholes, and new roads all together!”

— Lauren Hodges “Clean up the trash! Every time I see a garbage or recycling truck, trash is flying out the back of it.”

— Stacy Rebh Pace “Water drainage issues in the Merrin St and Calhoun area. Floods every time it rains and takes days to drain.”

— Cheryl A. Torres

“More light poles would be nice. So many parks and neighborhoods are pitch black at night. It’s kind of scary for delivery services or those who lack transportation and have to walk.” — Amanda Jungle “Landscaping waste - as in why are there over a dozen sago palms in 4x8 medians on Evers Street, why are almost all City sprinkler heads spraying concrete, and why do we re-sod the library and City Hall every year when it’s not necessary? Also, who decided to put parking spots on the west side of N Thomas St in front of Plant City Entertainment when that road is barely wide enough for two cars to pass each other without the parking spots?”

— Alicia May “Coordinate traffic lights along Alexander Street.”

— John Hehn

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

Leigh Loveday

Jackie Sellers, 73, of Zephyrhills, born in Plant City, Florida on January 3, 1948, entered into eternal rest on March 31, 2021.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Leigh Loveday, 73, of Plant City, born in Long Island, New York, entered into eternal rest on Saturday, April 3, 2021.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Betty Lee Norman, Barnett, Powell

Jeanette Davis

THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

Jeanette Davis, 60 of Tampa passed away April 2, 2021. The Betty Lee Norman, Barfamily will receive friends from nett, Powell, 89, of Plant City, 7-8pm Friday, April 9, 2021 at passed away on April 4th, 2021.

Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. She was born January 23rd, Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant City, with 1932, in Moultrie, Georgia. A service to follow at 8pm. Masks celebration of her life will take will be required for the gathering place Friday, April 9th, 2021 at with the service portion being 2pm at Wells Memorial Funeral livestreamed.

Home with visitation one hour we’re dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. tounique Online condolences may be prior service. celebrates the life it represents.

As your Dignity Memorial professionals, left for the family at haught.care.

Fond memories and expres> 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability Alberto Altu The Compassionmay Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance Robert Melvin sions of> sympathy be shared at www.WellsMemorial. Jewell Swindle Alberto Altu, 64, of Lithia, born Johnson R on June 16, 1956 in Manhattan, Jewell Swindle, 78, of Plant Proudly supportingcom. the Plant City Strawberry Festival.

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM New York, entered into eternal Robert Melvin Johnson, 88, of City, passed away on March rest on March 31, 2021.

8, 2021.

Plant City, born in Dover on Expressions of condolence Jewell was a hard working September 5, 1932, entered into Jennifer A. Harnage at HopewellFuneral.com. mother and devoted grandeternal rest on April 5, 2021.

WELLSMEMORIAL.COM mother. She enjoyed reading, Expressions of condolence at Jennifer A. Harnage, 57, of Plant working in her garden and HopewellFuneral.com.

City, passed away on Wednesday, Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy researching her ancestry.

Expressions of condolence at March 31, 2021. Jennifer was Bernice M. Shevlin 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM HopewellFuneral.com.

Jewell is survived by her lovborn January 19, 1964 in New ing family. Children, Rufus E. Orleans, Louisiana.

A memorial Bernice M. Shevlin, 76, of Charles Michael Swindle III and Cecilia Frank; service will be held Saturday, Wesley Chapel, passed away ‘Mick’ Paroda April 10, 2021 from 11:00 am to on Wednesday, March 31, 2021. grandchildren, Kyle Nathanto helping families create a W E ’R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community iel Frank and Briana Nicole 1:00 pmwe’re atdedicated GracePoint PresbyteBernicewe’re was born December 6,a Dr. Charles Michael “Mick” dedicated to helping families create W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community unique and meaningful that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. and meaningful memorial that truly withmemorial personal,Griffin compassionate care since 1896. in unique Frank; sisters, Bonnie Parr rian Church, 1944 Portsmouth, Virginia.

Paroda, 77, of Navarre, formerly celebrates 1107 the life itCharlie represents.

As your Dignity Memorial professionals, celebrates the life it represents.

As your Dignity Memorial professionals, and Shirley Culpepper; and Road, PlantPlan City, FL. > 100% Service GuaranteeFond memories and expresof Clarksburg, West Virginia > 100% Service Guarantee > National Transferability > National Plan Transferability HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® Bereavement Travel Assistance The Compassion Helpline® brothers, David Cunningham Fond memories and >expressions of >sympathy may be and born in Brownsville, Pennand Clyde Cunningham. In lieu sions of sympathy may be shared shared at www.WellsMemorial. sylvania, entered into eternal R R Tom Bird Proudly supportingat www.WellsMemorial.com. the Plant City Strawberry Festival. of flowers, memorial contribucom. rest on March 29, 2021.

Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. tions can be made to Helping Expressions of condolence at Tom Bird, 74, of Lakeland, Hands, Plant City.

HopewellFuneral.com. passed away on April 6, 2021.

Services will be held privately.

Online condolences may WELLSMEMORIAL.COM WELLSMEMORIAL.COM be left for the family at www.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM Wells MeMorial & event Center Wells MeMorial & event Center haught.care.

PlanT CiTy

Taking care of each other is what

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is all about.

®

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Taking care of each other is what

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is all about.

community

community

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®

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813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com

Christian Wurzel

Christian Wurzel, 78, of ValHAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM rico, born in Clyde Township, Michigan, on October 26, 1942, entered into eternal rest on April 2, 2021.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

10/27/15 10:42 AM

M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

PlanT CiTy

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com

10/27/15 10:42 AM M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

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ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

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

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OBITUARIES

Jackie Sellers

|

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

|

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

BEST BET SATURDAY, APRIL 10 EARTH, WIND & GARDEN CELEBRATION

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Spend a day exploring and learning in the Plant City Community & Botanical Gardens, 2001 E. Cherry St. This is a free event and open to the public. Free Children’s activities include a scavenger hunt, learning and mural painting. Take part in free workshops to learn about gardening, water conservation, how to turn your garden harvest into healthy and delicious meals with food sampling and much more. There will be a Plant Sale offering edibles and ornamentals for you to purchase and take home. Food and artisan vendors will be on site selling their wares. Girl Scouts will be on site to assist, direct and tell you all about their current installations in the Gardens. Visit plantcitycommunitygarden.com for more information.

MOVIE TRIVIA NIGHT

7 to 8:30 p.m. Bring your friends and family for Movie Trivia Night at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Grab a coffee and a treat downstairs and then head up to the loft to show off your movie trivia knowledge or just cheer on your loved ones and have a chance to win a “krazy kool” prize.

This family-friendly event is always free.

SATURDAY, APRIL 10 OPEN MIC NIGHT

7 to 8:30 p.m. It’s Open Mic Night at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Join them for a “Krazy” fun night where you get to be the show. Come out, strut your stuff and show everyone what you’ve got.

SUNDAY, APRIL 11 GIRL SCOUTS DAISY LAUNCH

1 to 4 p.m. Life can be complicated, but keeping your girl curious, active and happy doesn’t have to be. Come see all that Girl Scouts of West Central Florida has to offer your family with the Daisy Launch informational recruitment event. Find out all about your local Girl Scouts at this free event, which also has S’mores, a scavenger hunt,

crafts and more. The event will be held at American Legion Post 26 at 2207 W. Baker St. There are two time slots to choose from: 1 to 2:15 p.m. or 2:30 to 4 p.m.

COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed and masks are required.

TUESDAY, APRIL 13 FAMILY BOREDOM BUSTERS WEEK 2: ‘BEES’

Bruton Memorial library will be offering take home activity kits for families to enjoy together. This week’s theme will be “Bees” and will include puzzles, literacy activities, crafts and more. Kits will be available while supplies last.

VIRTUAL STORY TIME: GRACE AND BOX Join Miss Amanda from Bruton Memorial Library for a pre-recorded story time of the book entitled “Grace and Box” by Kim Howard.

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

Felton’s Market CHOICE MEATS • PRODUCE • GROCERIES

Visit FeltonsMarket.com

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

Sam Allen Rd.

39

PLANT CITY Baker St. olds

Reyn

St.

4 County Line Rd.

Plant City Recreation presents Baton Twirling Classes at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St. Classes are held every Thursday. Beginner classes are from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. and Intermediate classes are from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Your first class will be free. If you have any questions or would like more information, contact Barbara Patrick at 813-626-4554.

Practice making your thumbs a little greener and brighten your garden with Bitty Blooms. Kits will be available at Bruton Memorial Library while supplies last.

6 to 9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Square Dance Center, 4401 Promenade Blvd. Plant City Social Dance will have dances every Saturday night in the month of April at the Strawberry Square Dance Center. From 6 to 6:30 p.m., there will be ballroom music for ballroom dancers. The regular dance goes from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. The cost to dance is $7 per person and attendance is limited to 50 people with reservations. Call DJ Ken Miller at 863-409-7714 to reserve your spot and visit djkenmiller.com to look at sample playlists and get more information.

92

Lakeland

287682-1

BATON TWIRLING CLASSES

GREENLY: BITTY BLOOMS TAKE & MAKE KIT

PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE

Park Rd.

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, APRIL 9

Maryland Ave.

THURSDAY, APRIL 8

289695-1

YOUR CALENDAR

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FORECAST

Send your photo submissions to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@PlantCityObserver.com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

THURSDAY, APRIL 8 High: 87 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 6%

FRIDAY, APRIL 9 High: 89 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 8%

THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, April 8

7:11a

7:50p

Friday, April 9

7:09a

7:51p

Saturday, April 10

7:08a

7:51p

Sunday, April 11

7:07a

7:52p

Monday, April 12

7:06a

7:52p

Tuesday, April 13

7:05a

7:53p

Wednesday, April 14

7:04a

7:53p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, APRIL 10 High: 90 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 9%

SUNDAY, APRIL 11 High: 78 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 53%

MONDAY, APRIL 12 Kathy Flemister was recently captivated by the amaryllis behind St. Clement Catholic Church.

ONLINE

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

High: 86 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 24%

(C) 2021 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Across 1 *Ready to set sail, say 8 Diplomatic rep.

11 Machines with Windows, briefly 14 More tired 15 Foe of Chiang 16 Swing, jazz or rock ‘n’ roll 17 *1950s sitcom co-star 19 Early internet company 20 Investor’s purchase: Abbr.

21 Amazement 22 German cameras 24 Bashful 26 *Hester Prynne’s mark of shame

28 No-no 31 Continental coins 32 “Inside the NBA” analyst Shaq 33 Returning GI’s diagnosis 34 Capitol Hill helper 38 Musically monotonous 40 Collection of sacred songs 42 Geeky type 43 19-Across et al.

45 Lazy __: revolving tray 46 December mall figure 48 Foolish 49 *”Which side of the debate will you argue?”

52 June honoree 53 Really bothers

54 Fair-hiring inits.

56 Wood for bats 59 Home security co.

60 *Culpable one 64 Fairway position 65 Bruins legend 66 Answered 67 Title for Elton 68 Once called 69 Chess match climax, and what the last word of each answer to a starred clue can have Down 1 Hooting birds 2 Not masc. or fem.

3 Begin to parallel park,

with “in” 4 “... __ quit!”

5 Feel crummy 6 Race with batons 7 Sketched 8 Org. with a Health Care Advocacy web page 9 Ducks whose males have green heads 10 Slow-tempo Spanish dance 11 Quiet partner 12 Zagreb native 13 Taco topper 18 Harass 23 “Casablanca” heroine 24 Stinkers 25 Prefix with gram 27 Zodiac borders 28 Bugs Bunny or Bullwinkle 29 Lestat creator Rice 30 Bar pint contents 33 Sauce with basil 35 “__ miracle!”

36 College faculty head 37 Shore bird 39 __ of iodine: antiseptic 41 China’s continent 44 Group of jurors 47 Ferdinand II’s realm 49 Rings, as a bell 50 Bike spokes, geometrically 51 Furry aquatic mammal 52 Elder statesman 55 To be, in Tours 56 Puccini piece 57 Pipe part 58 Stevenson’s villainous Mr. 61 Wrath 62 Scoreboard abbr. for a rainout 63 High school subj.

15

Apr. 11 New

Apr. 16 First

Apr. 25 Full

May 7 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

0.01 in.

0.01 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

APR. AVERAGE:

05.07 in.

SQUASH Shipping point: Central Florida $6.35-$8.85

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

2.69 in.

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2021

PlantCityObserver.com