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Plant City Observer

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YO UR HOMETOW N. YO UR NEWSPAP ER .

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VOLUME 6, NO. 157

. YO UR NEWS PAP ER .

FREE • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

NEW FUTURE FOR FORMER POST OFFICE

The city has entered negotiations with Plant City Development Group, LLC regarding the construction of a five-story, mixed use residential/ commercial development.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

A new vision for the former post office on Reynolds Street has come to light after city commissioners listened to a presentation by Plant City Development Group, LLC to transform the space into a mixed use residential/commercial development. The plan — if the city agrees to the negotiations — is to take the property and build a five-story building with commercial on the ground floor, residential above it, an on-site parking facility and a rooftop element. The proposal is to have 123 units

featuring one, two and three-bedroom facilities with square footage ranging from 720 to 1440 square feet. There will be 5,000 square feet in total of amenities for the property including a fitness center, conference center, outdoor terraces and pet play area. Those spaces will all include highspeed WiFi and the terraces could include amenities like a pool and lounge chairs or other items that create gathering spaces for residents. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

ATHLETES FROM PLANT CITY

KARATE DOJO BRING HOME MEDALS FROM JUNIOR OLYMPICS

Nathan Gould, Jordan Dyer and T.J. Bright all earned medals at the national tournament.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS

Photo courtesy of HSCO

Scouts ready for return this fall Sign ups are starting for scouts in Plant City! Pack 734 and Pack 744 are both open to boys and girls, age kindergarten through fifth grade. Pack 734 will meet Mondays, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Cork Methodist Church, 4815 W Sam Allen Road. For more info, contact either Travis Jenkins at tcjenkins86@ gmail.com, Claude Carter at cbandmcarter@gmail.com or 813-418-1631; Pack web site: pack734.info Pack 744, will meet Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church. 303 N Evers St.. For more info, contact Matthew Nickerson at 352-4424217 or m52nickerson@yahoo.com or visit www.facebook.com/groups/bsacubscoutpack744 Boy Troop 734 is open to boys 6th grade to 18 years old. The troop meets 7:30 9 p.m. every Monday at Cork Methodist Church, 4815 W Sam Allen Rd. For more information please contact scoutmaster@ troop734.info.

Photo courtesy of Plant City Parks & Rec Courtesy of PCPD.

High adventure Crew 734 is open to all teens 14 and up. They will meet on Thursdays at Cork Methodist. For more information please contact committeechair@ crew734.info.

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office adds less lethal device Following a successful pilot program, with testing that began in April 2021, HCSO has announced the launch of a less lethal, de-escalation device called the BolaWrap. The BolaWrap is a device that has the ability to detain an individual who is a threat to themselves, deputies, or the community without harm. The hand-held device features a remotely-launched Kevlar tether that wraps around an individual’s body. The BolaWrap can be deployed from up to 25 feet away, a feature that allows deputies to maintain a safe distance while still restraining the subject before a confrontation escalates and requires a higher level of force. When deployed, the device

also makes a loud sound, which could potentially serve as a distraction as deputies work to detain an individual. “By adding this new, less lethal resource to the menu of options for deputies, we can quickly and effectively de-escalate a dangerous situation,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “I am thankful we have the opportunity to implement the BolaWrap as a safe alternative that will compliment our desire to bring a peaceful resolution to every encounter.” HCSO will be implementing 165 BolaWraps, supplying the device to select patrol deputies, the Behavioral Resources Unit, and Street Crimes Units in every district

Youth flag football registration begins Registration is under way for the 55th season of the Plant City Parks & Recreation Department/Optimist Youth Flag Football Program. The P.C.P.R.D./Optimist Youth Flag Football Program is for all area boys and girls ages four to 15, as of Nov. 1, 2021, and a birth certificate is required

for registration. The program is for youths who want to play in an atmosphere of fair play and good sportsmanship. Games are on Saturday mornings for co-ed ages 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-11-12, 13-14-15 at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2402 East Cherry Street. No hard pads or helmets are allowed and the league will not include practices or coaches. Teams meet each week and “instructing officials” are assigned to the teams to ensure each player carries or catches the ball, subs are rotated evenly and assist in play calling if needed. Parks and Rec will provide basic training in football skills and rules along with positive leadership to build the character and overall citizenship of the players. All who wish to participate must register by Sep. 1 to be guaranteed a place on a team and the season will run from Sep. 18 through Nov. 6. The cost is $37 per player for the eight-game season which includes their jersey and accident insurance. Register now thru Wednesday September 1 at the Parks & Recreation Department administrative office, 1904 South Park Road, phone 813-659-4255. For more information, click the program link above or call 813-659-4255.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

BLESSING BOXES BECOME COMMUNITY STAPLES IN PLANT CITY

The boxes provide non-perishable food items for those in need and a chance to give back for those who are able. TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

What started as an extension of good will, blessing boxes at several locations throughout Plant City have become a staple for many local residents in need. Aaron Brown, the lead pastor at Free Rider Fellowship, was first approached by a member of his congregation looking for a way to assist fellow Plant City residents. After searching for different ways to help, they settled on a blessing box. A blessing box is an outdoor pantry of sorts, providing non-perishable food and left open for both those who come in search of assistance and also those fortunate enough to be able to leave food as a contribution. “One of our members had been brainstorming on how we can help the community and came to me with the idea of putting up a box to hand out food,” Brown said. “Of course there’s a lot of logistical questions that come up with that. I didn’t know how exactly we would staff it and do all that and he said, no, we’ll just put the box up and put on there, ‘take what you need and give what you can,’ and allow people to help each other. I said that I don’t know if it’ll work or not, but we’ll see. And it’s been a huge success.” Their first blessing box was built outside of the church’s former location on Mud Lake Road, now home to Reformation Church. When the Free Rider Fellowship relocated to their current location on Cork Road, Brown asked if Reformation Church would be willing to leave the box in use, a request that the new residents happily accepted. “First of all, it was a great idea,” Eric Ayala from Reformation Church said. “And what’s nice about it is that it allows us to reach out to the community around us and to give a real, tangible benefit to people that are in need and to be a help to the community rather than just an organization that stays within its own walls.” Ayala mentioned that donations to the blessing box primarily come from members of the church’s congregation, but that they also get significant help primarily come from the local community filling the box up themselves.

And Brown added that since moving to their new location, he has seen how impactful the local residents have been in keeping the box fully stocked. “The community is really good about filling it up,” Brown said. “We stock it whenever we can and we have food that our people donate also, but it’s been really interesting since we moved out here and we built the second box. I have not had to fill it as often because the community out here is stocking it like crazy. I’m kind of shocked at how often there is someone out here.” The early fear for Brown was that that box would gain more traction from those in need than it would for those looking to add to the box, but notes how significant the momentum has become from those looking to help others. “In the very beginning it would empty out and we would restock it,” Brown said. “I will tell you, at the other church I would fill it up a couple of times each day at the beginning. But then once it got going and once the community realized what it was, it was kind of like a snowball effect and it just kept gaining momentum. When we left I was maybe putting food in a couple of times each week, but the people were just keeping it full. I would watch, people would go by and look at the box, see it empty and I would see them come back and put food in. It’s just a great way to help families and those who are in need.” One key factor for why Brown believes the blessing box is such a uniquely helpful part of Plant City is the ability for those who access it to remain anonymous, allowing individuals to choose exactly what and how much they need without having to go through any other processes. “It’s not embarrassing,” Brown said. “They don’t have to come up and ask or fill out a form or go through that process. The fact that they can come up, get whatever they need, there’s no one questioning them or giving them a hard time. And if someone takes every single thing out of the box, that’s OK. We’ll put more out here, we just want to keep blessing people and helping them any way that we can.”

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE OR ARE IN NEED

of the services provided, listed below are locations of blessing boxes throughout Plant City.

FREE RIDER FELLOWSHIP, 2902 CORK RD, PLANT CITY, FL 33565 REFORMATION CHURCH, 2207 MUD LAKE RD, PLANT CITY, FL 33566 THE HULL HOUSE, 203 N THOMAS ST, PLANT CITY, FL 33563

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY

Observer

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigate a stolen motorcycle, shots fired

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

at a vehicle and fraudulent tire

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

payments.

Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com istock

JULY 30 GONE IN THE NIGHT 1200 block of W. Reynolds St. Stolen vehicle: Officers met with the victim who stated that sometime during the night, an unknown suspect unlawfully removed his motorcycle from the parking lot at the location. FULLY AWARE 1400 block of W. Granfield Ave. Warrant arrest: Officers responded to the location in an attempt to locate the suspect who was known to have an outstanding Hillsborough County Warrant for obtaining a controlled substance via fraud. Upon arrival, officers met with the suspect who was cooperative and stated that she was aware of the warrant when advised of it by officers. The

Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver.com

warrant was then confirmed and the suspect was placed under arrest and transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

JULY 31

ing without a valid license. The warrant was confirmed and the suspect was taken into custody, issued a citation and transported to Orient Road Jail for booking.

1 Police Pl. Stolen tag: Officers met with the victim who advised them that the license plate had been stolen from her vehicle. BAD SIGN W. Reynolds St. Warrant arrest: Officers conducted a traffic stop after the suspect ran a stop sign. Upon making contact with the driver, a computer check revealed that the suspect had an active Lake County Warrant for failure to appear and driving and driving-

Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez

GONE WITHOUT A TRACE

Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

W Trapnell Rd. at Magnolia Green St. Shooting - occupied vehicle: Officers responded to the location in reference to shots fired at a vehicle.

200 block of Lisa Ann Ct. Vehicle burglary: Officers met with the victim who informed them that someone had entered her vehicle overnight. According to the report, items were moved around but nothing was missing and no damage was done to the vehicle.

AUG. 1

GO MEANS GO

CLOSE CALL

CLEAN PLATE

AUG. 2

NO LUCK, NO TRUCK 500 block of N. County Line Road Stolen vehicle: Officers met with the victim who stated that some time between 7 p.m. on July 30 and 10 a.m. on Aug 1, an unknown suspect unlawfully removed his semi-truck and trailer from the gas station at the location.

100 block of Lake Blvd. Trespass after warning arrest: Officers made contact with a suspect following a disturbance/ suspicious person call for service. The suspect was alerted that he was trespassing and advised to leave the park at the location due to causing disturbances. The suspect then refused to leave multiple times before he was placed under arrest and transported to Orient Road Jail. FAKE IT ’TIL YOU TAKE IT 1600 block of E. Baker St. Fraud: An unknown individual entered a business at the location and purchased several sets of tires with a fraudulent credit card.

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Advertising / Richard Brame richard@plantcityobserver.com Advertising / Karen Berry kberry@plantcityobserver.com

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

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We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements. To contact us, send your information via: Email: Sarah Holt, SHolt@ PlantCityObserver.com. Mail: The Plant City Observer, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100B, Plant City, FL 33563

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Plant City Observer

is locally owned by Ed Verner, Karen Berry, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes The Plant City Observer is published by Plant City Media LLC.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

FUTURE DISCUSSED FOR FORMER POST OFFICE SITE

A development company is proposing transforming the former post office on Reynolds Street into a multi-use residential/commercial building.

Courtesy of Plant City Development Group

FROM PAGE 1 BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

On the ground floor of the building the group is proposing a 9,000 square foot commercial space that would more than likely entail some type of restaurant, a cigar or cocktail bar and other tenants. The rooftop element will be 6,000 square feet in total and though this is not set in stone, the goal is to have some type of indoor restaurant and bar and pair it with an outdoor terrace to have sunset views. Parking was the biggest question from commissioners to Plant City Development Group. On site the goal is to have 96 parking spots camouflaged within the bottom of the building. The group already has an agreement with First Presbyterian Church at 205 and 207 N. Walker St. to ground lease a section of their parking lot. It would be a 15-year lease with six fiveyear options to extend. This would not be the church’s main parking lot, but rather an adjacent lot. They said they are also in discussions with other property owners to lease parking. GET TO KNOW THE TEAM Plant City Development Group’s development team is Sandy Marks, Stephen Katz and Mitchell Marks. Sandy Marks is the co-founder of Clearnote Capital, a real estate advisory firm that started in 2013, through which he has financed hundreds of millions of dollars worth of real estate and developed several high-profile properties in NYC, including a high-end condo on Mulberry Street in Little Italy. Prior to founding Clearnote Capital, he was a senior client manager at J.P Morgan Chase where he managed and maintained a port-

folio of over $300M. Stephen Katz is the founder of SMK Development, a real estate development consulting firm started in 2017. Clients include Banyan Cay, for whom he redeveloped a 250-acre, two 18-hole decommissioned golf course into a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, with a 150room hotel and 150 single family homes. SMK Development facilitated day to day operations, including running weekly development meetings, liaising between design professionals, general contractors, permitting officials, and owners. Mitchell Marks is the president and founder of First New York Realty, a real estate development, commercial brokerage, and consulting firm founded in 1986. He employs 40 staff in their NY office, with notable clients including NYU, Kmart, The New York Times and the FBI. He has successfully acquired, subdivided and developed land in Bedford NY, converted the former YMCA in NYC into luxury residential condominiums, and developed commercial space at 213 West 23rd Street. He owns and manages his own personal investment properties. John Haney, a fourth-generation Plant City native, is the group’s real estate advisor. Haney, president and managing broker of Ace Realty & Auction LLC, has been in the real estate business for nearly 20 years and is well known throughout the community. During his career, he has sold everything from high-rise office buildings to luxury homes and industrial facilities. The group is partnering with BDG Architects, a 130+ person full service Architec-

tural, Space Planning, Interior Design and Program Management team. Recently BDG Architects formed a partnership with FleischmanGarcia, a firm based in Tampa. Bohler Engineering was also presented as part of this project. While partnering with the broader team, Bohler will help to bring the vision of building residences and commercial space that attract tenants, while contributing to community growth. Innovations Design Group is a landscaping architecture and master planning company based in Orlando that was presented as being a part of this vision. Plant City Development Group said landscaping was a top priority for the vision of making sure the new building blended seamlessly with the rest of the downtown community. Suffolk Construction, which was founded in 1982 and in the last five years has built more than $1.7 billion in the multi-family sector in Florida, will be joining the project as well. Mayor Rick Lott commented how interesting and well-planned it was for the group to have already decided on their contractor when doing the initial pitch to commissioners. THE VISION The unique character of downtown Plant City was a talking point Plant City Development Group returned to time and again in their presentation to commissioners Monday. Much of historic downtown is comprised of red brick buildings and, though a recent vote by commissioners technically removed the former post office

property from the historic district, the group wanted to make the building feel like it was part of that historic construction. They said they wanted it to feel like this modern building had been in the community for 100 years, that creating a building that shares in the city’s history and depth and nods toward the architecture of its neighboring buildings was a top priority for them. Though it will be five stories high the company proposed it will have a red brick exterior that matches the rest of downtown, including City Hall, which will be directly across the street. The retail on the bottom would be sleek and match the historic look of the rest of the building, as would the rooftop amenities. “We hear this from everybody, all the time, individuals that are currently in our city and the individuals that are moving to our city are looking for that downtown character, that charm and that history and our city has that,” Lott said. “A lot of cities don’t have that downtown character.” Commissioners, though concerned about parking, liked the proposal and agreed unanimously to allow City Manager Bill McDaniel to proceed in negotiations with the group. This was just the initial project presentation and more will follow before this is set in stone. However, the group said in a perfect world if everything is streamlined and goes smoothly they would love to break ground by the end of 2021 or very start of 2022.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

INITIAL PEEK AT UPCOMING CITY BUDGET Commissioners sat through the first budget workshop Monday night to listen to details of the upcoming fiscal year. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The first budget workshop of the year was held this week in a special meeting at City Hall where commissioners got an initial glimpse where they city will focus its funds over the course of the next fiscal year. Diane Reichard, chief financial officer for the City of Plant City, gave an in-depth and brilliantly formatted presentation on the upcoming fiscal year. She highlighted changes in funding, explained the why behind the investments the city annually commits to and outlined the basics of the allocation of funds this year including new hires, upcoming projects and ongoing financial commitments. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 2021-2022 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET

• The total budget for the upcoming fiscal year is $91,243,207, which includes $2,306,877 for the Community Redevelopment Agency • The General Fund budget is $42,309,714 • The millage rate is set at 5.7157 mills, which includes 1.0 mil dedicated entirely to street resurfacing and related maintenance. • There will be a net increase of eight employees, bringing the city’s total workforce to 475 employees. • The fiscal year includes a total capital improvement program budget of $15,554,631.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Each year the City of Plant City allocates funds to a variety of groups and organizations around the community. The initial proposed budget shows: • $140,000 to assist the Plant City Economic Development Corporation to market Plant City on a full-time basis • $10,000 to the annual investment fee to the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation via PCEDC • Plant City Chamber of Commerce ($65,000); Boys and Girls Club of Plant City ($20,000); Railroad Museum Society ($25,000); Economic Incentive QTI Program ($31,005); 1914 Building ($40,000); Plant City Main Street ($50,000); Arts Council of Plant City ($6,000); and $2,000 each to Black Heritage Celebration, Improvement League of Plant City and the Christmas Parade.

PARKS & REC

Parks and Recreation has several exciting projects proposed for the upcoming fiscal year including: • Creating dog parks at Mike Sansone Park and Marie B. Ellis Park for $130,000 • Allocating $100,000 toward the construction of a spray park • Installing ornamental cemetery fencing for $125,000; providing $75,000 to design a larger cemetery operations maintenance building and a separate customer service building; improving roadways in various cemeteries for $100,000

• Rehabilitating the recreation division’s storage barn at Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex for $60,000 • Adding playground improvements for $150,000 STORMWATER/WATER & SEWER

One of the larger financial commitments of the upcoming fiscal year is proposed in water/sewer and the stormwater improvements. The city has long been committed to improving infrastructure, reclaimed water and stormwater operations throughout the community. A variety of projects over the course of the next year will further that mission. • Water and sewer infrastructure improvements of $2,620,000 to repair lift stations, replace waterlines, gravity sewer lines, generators, pumps, water storage tanks, meters and force mains to improve

water quality and provide a more efficient system • Invest an additional $400,000 to construct Water Treatment Plant 5 • Provide an additional $500,000 to the Reclaimed Water Recharge project • $100,000 toward the design of McIntosh Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR) project; an additional $150,000 toward design and construction of the McIntosh Park Wetland Expansion; Stormwater will also contribute $150,000 toward McIntosh Park Wetland Expansion project • Invest $200,000 towards the rehabilitation and repair of stormwater drainage pipes and inlets The public hearing for the tentative budget will be held Sept.13 at 7:30 p.m. and the public hearing for the final budget will be held Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

DOWNTOWN DISCOUNT CARDS OFFERING MASSIVE SAVINGS * Not the actual card just a mockup.

Shoppers have even more of an incentive to shop local this year thanks to the upcoming launch of a downtown discount card, which will offer huge savings at downtown businesses. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Plant City Main Street is kicking off a new shopping incentive to encourage local shoppers to support downtown businesses. The Downtown Discount Card will feature a variety of discounts ranging from buy one get one free deals to percentages off purchases. Some will include free items with purchases and others will focus on bundling deals. The cards will cost $10 and can be used repeatedly for a full year at participating businesses. “With COVID going on and everything we need our consumers and support for our local businesses,” Greg Williams, Downtown Merchants Committee Chair, said. “That level of support, that’s truly the only reason we made it through the

pandemic. People supporting small businesses impacts lives right here in our community.” Williams said all of the money raised by the cards will return to Main Street so the organization can continue to provide a variety of events and projects to downtown. There are currently more than 20 businesses participating in the card including Brick City Bricks, Tub Treats, Krazy Kup and more. The cards are expected to launch at the end of August and can be picked up at any of the participating businesses or online at plantcitymainstreet.org. The discounts last one year and can be redeemed on a recurring basis. Some of the deals are redeemable once a day, others once a week and so on, but each item can be reused regularly. Several years ago a similar card was launched by Williams in partnership with

many merchants downtown. He said that idea was the inspiration behind this new project and added he has had a lot of help from people who are familiar with this type of discount service perfecting the offering into something that will be advantageous for both the community and the businesses. The group aims to print 1,000 cards at the end of the month and Williams said he’s already had local business owners reach out wanting to buy bulks of the cards to give out to their employees and loyal customers. He expects this will be a big hit as people prepare to start their holiday shopping. There has been a focus throughout the nation over the course of the last few years to support small businesses rather than throwing money at box stores and massive chains. Multiple studies have shown that small businesses directly

impact the local economy at a higher rate than chains. For every $100 spent at a small business, an average of $68 stays in the community, which is more than double the amount chains reinvest. As downtown Plant City continues to flourish, Williams said Main Street wants to keep offering programs that shine a spotlight on downtown. The next Last Friday in Downtown event will be themed Marvel vs. DC on Aug. 27. The group also has its annual Top Golf tournament around the corner as well as a fall festival event in September. Down the road facade projects and even an initiative to get more businesses open on Mondays are slotted. The group is constantly evolving and you can stay up-to-date on all of its offerings by following Plant City Main Street on Facebook and Instagram. Or you can visit plantcitymainstreet.org.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

PLANT CITY STUDENTS RETURN TO THE CLASSROOM Alex and Anthony

Hagen

Grab your book bags and your notebooks because school is officially back. Join the Observer in wishing all of Plant City’s students a successful school year. STAFF WRITER

School is officially back in session for students in Hillsborough County and many parents waved goodbye to their young students this week as they ushered them back into the new school year. As of now schools are open like normal though many parents have commented they are carefully watching the news for signs their kids may have to once again be sent home for virtual learning due to the ongoing pandemic. For now the doors are open, however, and teachers are welcoming them back and are ready to help students knock this year out of the park. Parents submitted photos of their kids on their first day of school throughout the area. All of us here at the Plant City Observer are wishing each and every student a successful and memorable school year.

Julia

Kellan

Johnathan Collins

Kyleigh

Ozzy and Jasmine Juan and Guillermo

Bubba

Kayla and Emily Kayla and Emily

Virginia

Cynthia

Madison

287682-1

BREANNE WILLIAMS

Marlee

AUGUST 12, 2021

SPORTS

PLANT CITY COLTS’ FIRST GAME POSTPONED As excitement rose following a cancelled 2020 season, the Colts faced another obstacle.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

The Plant City Colts were set to kick off their season this past Saturday against the Lakeland Storm, a welcome return for the youth football program after their 2020 season was cancelled due to COVID-19. The Colts were far from the only team within the Mid Florida Football Cheer Conference to cancel their season last year, with several other organizations opting to suspend operations as well. But after a successful jamboree the weekend prior, all signs were pointing toward a safe and smooth return to play. But excitement for the new season quickly turned to anguish as the Colts’ opening weekend games were subsequently cancelled due to positive tests within both organizations. Colts’ president Angelo Murray received a phone call last week informing him of positive tests within Lakeland’s program, forcing them to halt activity, and shortly after he began receiving calls regarding positive tests within Plant City’s organization which became cause for the Colts to follow suit. “We had some positive tests so then at that point, I decided that we needed to try and figure out how do we become safe,” Murray said. “So last week on Thursday I pretty much called everybody in the organization together, parents and kids, and told them that right now we’re going to shut down until I can figure out what we need to do.”

In the name of safety for all involved in the organization, the Colts then responded on Tuesday by offering parents, players and coaches the opportunity to be tested and receive vaccinations, if willing and eligible. “If you can find out how many people are positive, then that way I feel like we can control it,” Murray said. “Because if we get a positive test, we know that you’ll be gone for this many days compared to not knowing at all and then you still have the unknown here. It’s kind of hard to control it like that so I figure that if people get tested then we can know how to proceed.” Working with local non-profit organizations Generations Renewed and Frontline, the Colts were provided PCR COVID tests from Pastor Joe Kelley of The Common Ground Movement and Bio Testing Labs and were provided vaccines from Plant City Discount Pharmacy, all at no cost to the community. “We have all three shots, J&J, Moderna and Phizer,” Meena Kukreja of Plant City Discount Pharmacy said. “So they can come, we can get anybody (vaccinated) in five minutes, in and out. If there is a group of 10 or more, we can go any place and get that done. Our whole motto is to get as many people as we can vaccinated. It’s free of charge to everyone, it’s free of charge given to us from the government, I just want to do my part to get as many people vaccinated as we can. As a pharmacist, I just want to do my part and give my contribution to the community, it’s a time to give back to the community. Our com-

munity has done a lot for us and it’s time for every professional to step up.” In addition to providing testing and vaccines, the Colts have protocols in place for game days again, including safe zones for the teams and mask requirements for players, coaches and members within the organization when moving throughout the complex away from the playing field. “You must always think about the kids,” Murray said. “That should be the first and foremost thought about what’s safe for them and what’s good for the kids, that was my thought process when I started trying to figure out how we get tested and be proactive.” While the turnout for the Colts’ event was meager, Murray hopes that their actions can serve as an example for other organizations to be proactive about their handling of COVID as the season gets underway. The Colts are scheduled to play the Greenwood Panthers in Clearwater this coming weekend, but the status of Saturday’s game remains unclear. For anyone looking to receive their COVID-19 vaccination, visit Plant City Discount Pharmacy at 607 E. Alexander St. You can also contact the pharmacy at 813703-1500 or plantcitydiscountrx@gmail.com.

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

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

ATHLETES FROM PLANT CITY

KARATE DOJO BRING HOME MEDALS FROM JUNIOR OLYMPICS Nathan Gould, Jordan Dyer and T.J. Bright all earned medals at the national tournament.

Photos by Kerri Gould

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Earlier in July, several of the tournament team members from Chris Welbon Karate in Plant City headed to Greenville, South Carolina for the AAU Karate Nationals tournament, a competition in which 17 members of the team secured medals. In total, the team returned with 11 gold, 13 silver and 10 bronze medals. Following the dojo’s most-anticipated tournament of the year, three members of the tournament team then took to Houston, Texas later in the month for the Junior Olympics.

Nathan Gould, 15, Jordan Dyer, 13, and T.J. Bright, 9, all received medals at the event. Gould competed in four events and earned one gold medal and two bronze. While Gould medaled in three of his four events, he did so despite participating as a brown belt in a division alongside black belts in just his first year of competing. Dyer, the lone black belt of the three competitors, competed in four events and received three silver medals and one bronze. Bright competed in four events and won four gold medals, coming off of an AAU Nationals performance in which he also won gold in each of the three events that he competed in.

“I know what I need to get to, I know what I need to fight for,” Gould said about competing against black belts. “I didn’t do great but I put up a fight, which is what I wanted to do. Following the competition was Team Trials, where participants in the advanced division — denoting four or more years of competing — can be selected based on their results and performance to compete for a chance to represent their country as a part of their junior world team. Following the trials, Dyer was selected to the junior world team where she will head to Romania in September to represent the United States in kumite, or fighting. “Its a dream for these kids,” Welbon said. “Because she started as a beginner com-

petitor, she started as a white belt. We’ve had several other students in the dojo that have been picked for teams so she’s seen them go off and win and compete and do well, so it’s always been a dream of hers to be able to do that. She was able to be successful and reach one of her goals.”

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

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

REAL ESTATE

PlantCityObserver.com

JULY 2021

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Local July 2021 sales and trend information courtesy of The Crawford Group The month of July shows no signs of slowing down in the Plant City’s real estatemarket. The area had 81 homes closed, 159 homes under contract and only 79 homes available to purchase. One concern is that our federal government is basically holding some of the available inventory hostage with the different moratoriums. The people they are intending to assist, will only be faced with higher purchase costs and a more intense demand. The unobstructed real estate supply and demand functions of our economy will prevail. This month’s average selling price was $316,108 compared to $274,103 last month, a 15 percent price increase over the previous month and a 29 percent increase from the beginning of the year. The better news is that median price has increased to $295,000. That means that half the homes sold last month were higher than $295,000. The average days to contract have decreased to 7.9 days in July versus a year-to-date average of 18.5 days, meaning properties are going under contract quicker. When we look at the average selling price per square foot, July 2021 was $166.25 per square foot, which was a slight reduction from the previous month of June. The area continues to have limited inventory, currently running about 26 days, but I re-

ally do not see any downside to the market anytime soon. The 30-year mortgage rates continue to stay in the low 3’s, employment rates are rising as pandemic conditions subside and the people relocating to Florida still on the rise. Your main concern if in the market to buy or sell a property is to team up with a seasoned real estate professional to assist you in navigating through the entire process. SALES SNAPSHOT The following properties were a sample listed as sold on the Greater Tampa Realtors Association MLS in July 2021. The home at 1606 W WASHINGTON ST sold July 28 for $112,501. Built in 1958, it has 3 bedrooms, 1 bath and 1232 square feet of living area. The home at 2007 GREENWOOD VAL-

LEY DR sold July 14 for $173,000. Built in 2014, it has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and 1649 square feet of living area.

The home at 243 ALEXANDER WOODS DR sold July 30 for $211,000. Built in 2015, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1798 square feet of living area.

The home at 601 S LINCOLN ST sold July 14 for $235,000. Built in 1998 it has 3 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1383 square feet of living area. The home at 1100 N NANCY TER sold July 9 for $247,000. Built in 1966, it has 4 bedrooms, 2 bath and 1257 square feet of living area. The home at 2914 CLAY TURNER RD sold July 2 for $270,000. Built in 2001, it has 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and 2350 square feet of living area. The home at 6709 FIVE ACRE RD sold July 19 for $295,000. Built in 1984, it has 3 bedrooms, 1 bath and 1302 square feet of living area. The home at 3309 SAN MOISE PL sold July 26 for $305,000. Built in 2016, it has 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and 1767 square feet of living area. The home at 3222 S NORTHVIEW RD sold July 25 for $325,000. Built in 2018, it has 5 bedrooms, 3 baths and 2674 square feet of living area. The home 3445 SILVER MEADOW WAY sold July 7 for $343,000. Built in 1993, it

has 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and 1843 square feet of living area. The home at 2623 HOLLY BLUFF CT sold July 25 for $377,000. Built in 2012, it has 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and 2456 square feet of living area. The home at 3430 KNOXVILLE PL sold July 28 for $435,000. Built in 2015, it has 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and 2350 square feet of living area. The home at 2509 CLUBHOUSE DR sold July 16 for $482,000. Built in 1994, it has 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and 2966 square feet of living area. The home at 3022 SUTTON WOODS DR sold July 9 for $599,000. Built in 1999, it has 5 bedrooms, 4 baths and 3712 square feet of living area. The home at 4006 HEATHCOE RD sold July 23 for $658,000. Built in 1995, it has 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and 3382 square feet of living area.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

PlantCityObserver.com

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR We asked Plant City: The City of Plant City is considering adding two new dog parks and potentially a splash pad to town, what are some things that you would like to see come to Plant City in the future?

“Putt-putt golf. It’s family oriented entertainment, something I think many can enjoy. Families, teen groups, etc.” Jackie Peterson “Miniature golf is another great idea that I feel would add a lot of culture and hustle and bustle to the downtown area of plant City. I could easily see this being adjacent to the railroad museum and hav-

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“Splash pad is a fantastic idea! Not put it somewhere that businesses can come

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“A chain of parks starting in McCall Park then the railroad museum crossing the tracks to the railroad Observation park create a park in between there and Cooper’s park then create a park between there and Marie B Ellis Park.” - Brian Reed

“One good playground, in full shade, in the middle of downtown would completely change that area. It would become a place for families to spend the day.” Patrick Barrett

ing a garden train theme. The splash pad is a great idea that should be expanded upon. I would love to have a community pool with diving boards and maybe even a few water slides and cabanas. Not a full-scale water park but an eco-

Park Rd.

“A place for teens to hang out but have adult supervision by employees. Arcade, pool, bowling.” - Victoria Pope

in around it. Could make it a central gathering place for the city.” - Alan Nelson

Maryland Ave.

“I like the idea of a splash pad. I think a bigger park with more things to do with kids would be great, like what Lakeland has.” - Brittany Sewell

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AROUND TOWN

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

Mary “Mimi” Johnson, 87, of Valrico, Fla., born in Bronx, N.Y. on Aug. 31, 1933, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 3, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

entered into eternal rest on May 13, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Joan Giddens

Joan Giddens, 87, of Lakeland, Fla., born in Plant City on Sep. 5, 1933, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 4, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Dana E. DeShong Dana E. DeShong, 73, of Valrico, Fla., born in Plant City on Jan. 20, 1948, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 4, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Daniel Guy Lastinger Daniel Guy Lastinger, 52, of Lithia, Fla., born in Tampa on June 26, 1969,

Lonnie Melvin Lee Lonnie Melvin Lee, 86, of Plant City, Fla. born in Lacoochee on Aug. 2, 1935, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 8, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by wife, Dolores Arleen Lee; and son, Lonnie Arthur Lee. He retired from IMC, and was a member of Shriners and Turkey Creek Masonic Lodge. He enjoyed coaching Plant City Little League Baseball, and fishing. He is survived by children, Leah White (Chuck) of Lakeland, Linda Simpkins of Marion, Indiana, and Derek Lee (Hayley) of Plant City; grandchildren, Nicole (Albert), Amy (Mike), CJ (Ginny), Chelsea

(Aaron), Rick, Lindsey Jesse Clinton (Corey), Tyler (Kelsie), Kent Jr. Lauren, Lillian, Layla, and Easton; 15 great-grandJesse Clinton Kent Jr., 82, children ; siblings, Alvin of Plant City, Fla. passed Lee, Bonnie McCullough away on Aug. 4, 2021. (Christopher), and Verna Services will be held Rae Young; and hog, Wilbur. privately. If so desired, the A funeral service will be family has requested donaheld Tuesday, Aug. 17 at 3 tions be made to either the p.m. at Hopewell Funeral Glioblastoma Foundation or Home, 6005 South County St. Jude Children’s Hospital Road 39, Plant City, where in his name. the family will receive Online condolences may friends beginning at 2 p.m. be left for the family at Graveside committal to folwww.haught.care. low at Hopewell Memorial Gardens, Plant City. Expressions of condoHAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM lence at HopewellFuneral. com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Elwin ‘Peanut’ Earl Elston

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

Mary Conway

Steven Tracey Graves

Steven Tracey Graves, 60, of Mulberry, Fla. passed away on Aug. 3, 2021. Steven was a retired United States Navy Veteran. Services will be posted at a later date. Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

OBITUARIES

Mary ‘Mimi’ Johnson

Mary Conway, 81, of Plant City, Fla. passed away on Aug. 8, 2021. The family will receive friends Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021 from 6 to 7 p.m. at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Funeral services will follow at 7 p.m. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haught.care.

Mike McCoy

Mike McIntire

Mike McCoy, 74, of Plant City, Fla. passed away on Aug. 4, 2021. The family will receive friends Friday, Aug. 13, 2021, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haught.care.

Mike McIntire, 79, of Plant City, Fla. passed Wanda G. away on Aug. 5, 2021. Mike Campbell served in the United States Navy. Family will receive Wanda G. Campbell, 74, friends Thursday Aug. 12, of Tampa, Fla., entered 2021, from 10 to 11 a.m., a into eternal rest on Aug. 3, memorial service will follow 2021. She was born in Plant dedicated to helping families create a P RO U D TO Funeral S E RV E our community at 11 a.m. WatE ’ RE Haught City onwe’re Dec. 7, 1946. unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. the life it represents. Home. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, Fondcelebrates memories and > 100% Service Guarantee > National PlanofTransferability Online condolences may expressions sympathy > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® be left for the family at may be shared at www. R www.haught.care. WellsMemorial.com for the Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Campbell family.Festival.

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

Taking care of each other is what

community

is all about.

Elwin “Peanut” Earl Elston, 94, of Plant City, Fla., born in Etna, Maine on Sep. 4, 1926, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 5, 2021. He is survived by wife of 74 years, Elizabeth M. Elston; daughter, Earline Temples (Robert); 3 grandchildren; and 3 greatWELLSMEMORIAL.COM grandchildren. He was preHAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM ceded in death by daughter, Wells MeMorial & event Center Nancy Eaton. PlanT CiTy Expressions of condo813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com lence at HopewellFuneral. com. ®

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HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

10/27/15 10:42 AM

Perseveranda S. Harlan

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

Margie Boyette

Margie Boyette, 89, of Plant City, Fla. passed away Perseveranda S. Harlan, 63, of Plant City, Fla. on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021. She passed away on Wednes- was born in Plant City on April 7, 1932. Visitation will day, Aug. 4, 2021. She was born Aug.30, 1957 in be Aug. 16, 2021 at Wells Memorial Funeral Home Cebu, Philippines. A funeral service will be held from 10 to 11 a.m., with a to helping WE’ RE PR O UD TO S E RV E our community servicewe’re todedicated follow at 11families a.m.create a Aug.13, 2021 at 11:00 unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. celebrates the life it represents. your Dignity Memorial professionals, Fond memories and am atAsWells Memorial we’re dedicated to> helping families create a S E RV E our community 100%memorial Service Guarantee > National Plan expressions ofTransferability sympathy unique andHome. meaningful that trulyAssistance assionate care since 1896. Funeral Travel > The Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement celebrates the life it represents. morial professionals, may be shared at www. Fond memories and rvice Guarantee > National Plan Transferability R for the expressions of Helpline® sympathy WellsMemorial.com ment Travel Assistance > The Compassion supporting Boyette the Plant Cityfamily. Strawberry Festival. may be sharedProudly at www. R WellsMemorial.com for udly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. the Harlan family.

Taking care of each other is what

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WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Wells MeMorial & event Center WELLSMEMORIAL.COM

Ronald Taking care Dean of Bushaw 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com each other is what Wells MeMorial & event Center

PlanT CiTy

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com

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10/27/15 10:42 AM

community

Ronald Dean Bushaw, 74, of Plant City, Fla. passed away on Aug. 6, 2021. He was born Nov.4, 1946 and was a United States Army Veteran. Services dedicated to helping families create a E RVE our community will be we’re held at a later date. unique and meaningful memorial that truly ssionate care since 1896. the life it represents. orial professionals, Fondcelebrates memories and condorvice Guarantee > National Plan Transferability lences may be shared at www. ent Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® WellsMemorial.com. Geraldine

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Ratcliff

Geraldine Ratcliff, 91, a 50-year resident of Plant City went home to be with her Lord Jesus and her beloved husband Guy on Aug. 4, 2021. There will be a visitation on Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021 at Sunset Funeral Home from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. with a service at 12 p.m. Burial will follow.

10/27/15 10:42 AM

Ricardo Benites Ricardo Benites, 49, beloved son to Manuel Benites and Elsa Benites, brother to Bryan Benites daughters Valery Benites, and Thalia Benites, passed away on Aug. 2, 2021.

BEST BET THURSDAY, AUG. 19 PATRIOTS BATON TWIRLING 3:30 to 7 p.m. at 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Join the award-winning Patriots Baton classes at their new location, the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center. Classes begin Aug. 19 and offer the opportunity to learn and perform in parades, civic events and twirling competitions. Classes will run throughout the evening with beginners classes at 3:30 to 4:20 p.m., intermediate and middle school classes at 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and competition twirlers classes at 5:30 to 7 p.m. For more information, contact Miss Barbara at 813-626-4554.

THURSDAY, AUG. 12

FRIDAY, AUG. 13

PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS

EMERGE PLANT CITY LAUNCH PARTY

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.

ENGLISH FOR FAMILIES

6 to 7 p.m. at 302 McLendon St. Head to the Bruton Memorial Library for their Family Literacy Program, a program that allows families an opportunity to practice reading with their children and to learn English vocabulary for everyday use. The free class meets twice each week on Tuesdays and Thursdays through Aug. 12 and is recommended for all ages.

6 p.m. at 111 S. Evers St. Emerge Plant City provides young professionals with business network connections that are aimed at inspiring, enriching and developing individuals both personally and professionally. On Friday, Aug. 13, Emerge will hold their launch party at Three Hands Mead Company, providing an opportunity to meet and connect with the organization, along with other young, local professionals. For more information, follow EMERGE Plant City on Facebook and Instagram and visit emergeplantcity.com.

MOVIE TRIVIA NIGHT - ACTION MOVIES

7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J Arden Mays Blvd. August Movie Trivia Night at Krazy Kup will feature questions relating to action movies. Bring your friends and family to grab a cup of coffee and head up to the loft

to show off your movie knowledge or just to cheer on your loved ones with a chance to win a prize. As always, the event is family friendly and free.

SATURDAY, AUG. 14 OPEN MIC NIGHT

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

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 18 MASTER GARDENER: POISONOUS PLANTS

11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 302 McLendon St. Head to the Bruton Memorial Library to participate in a live webinar and Q&A to learn about ecological awareness and how to nurture your own corner of the natural world, presented with participation from the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at the University of Florida.

To participate, you must be registered by Sunday, Aug. 15. For more information, contact Kelly at KLibengood@PlantCityGov.com.

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 nonretention, 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.

STATE FARM® AGENT

Tony Lee CLU, CHFC 813.752.7202

1702 S. Alexander, Plant City, FL 33563

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OBITUARIES

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

YOUR CALENDAR

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FORECAST

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

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 High: 90 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 42%

FRIDAY, AUGUST 13 High: 90 Low: 75 Chance of rain: 34%

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, August 12

6:57a

8:09p

Friday, August 13

6:57a

8:08p

Saturday, August 14

6:58a

8:07p

Sunday, August 15

6:58a

8:06p

Monday, August 16

6:59a

8:05p

Tuesday, August 17

6:59a

8:04p

Wednesday, August 18 7:00a

8:03p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 High: 87 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 45%

SUNDAY, AUGUST 15 High: 84 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 51%

MONDAY, AUGUST 16 Brenda Miller took these photos of summer garden flowers last month in Plant City.

ONLINE

High: 89 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 48%

Across 1 “__ Secretary” 6 First Negro League electee to Cooperstown 11 Radical ‘70s org. 14 Durance who plays Lois on “Smallville” 15 Per __ 16 Comparative suffix 17 Grim 18 Removes with a putty knife 20 Out 22 Where hauls may be divided 23 Pouchlike shoulder bag 25 Nearly straight-horned antelope

26 Going up 29 Tender 32 Warning to a meddler 34 Cote sounds 35 Pilot’s place 36 442 or 88, e.g. 37 Guideline when something is dropped from one’s diet? 40 Eclair filling 41 Stylish filmmakers 42 Shepherd’s pie bits 44 Poet’s rhyme for “home” 45 Important artery 48 Construction equipment 53 Coldly devious

55 Vaudeville production 56 Preceding, poetically 57 Name in 1976 Olympic news 58 Totally remove 59 Palindromic song from a palindromic band 60 Funding source 61 Prohibition details Down 1 Most populous U.S. city that isn’t a county seat 2 Fine things? 3 Tuner, sometimes 4 One of Yellowstone’s two million-plus 5 Be opportunistic, meta-

phorically 6 Dance step 7 “A Cook’s Tour” host 8 Cross letters 9 Forklift truck friend of Luigi in “Cars” films 10 Largest penguin 11 Seat of South Dakota’s Minnehaha County 12 Bailed 13 Warnings, perhaps 19 Alternative baking staple 21 Regulate 24 Breath spray brand 26 Lincoln wore them 27 Window with a crank, often 28 Pursue 30 Köln closing 31 Lo-__ 32 Yvette’s evening 33 Foes of Buffy 34 Phased-out propellant 38 Intense, as pain 39 Spread by moving dirt? 43 __ energy 45 Field food, briefly 46 Dynamic start? 47 John/Rice musical 49 Celsius freezing point 50 __-Picone: fashion house 51 Sign of age, maybe 52 Dates 54 N.L. East player

Sep. 6 New

Aug. 15 First

Aug. 22 Full

Aug. 30 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

2.24 in.

3.40 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

AUG. AVERAGE:

34.61 in.

AVOCADO Shipping point: South Florida $12.00-$27.00

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

8.32 in.

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021

PlantCityObserver.com