Emory Installs Bronze Sculptures at Plant City Venue Stage 201
The artist, who grew up in Plant City, collaborated with venue owner Frank Trunzo to create a permanent facade for the performance and pizza location.
By Alina Carter ·
Local artist Blake Emory has unveiled a new entrance artwork for Stage 201 in Plant City.
The project features two life-size relief sculptures with a bronze finish flanking the venue's doors. One sculpture depicts a pizza chef mid-toss with one hand raised to the dough. The other shows a saxophonist wearing a hat and suit, leaning into his instrument. Painted facade work completes the design, including a flame band along the base of the wall and hand-lettered signage across the front of the building.
Emory, a painter, sculptor, and filmmaker, created the installation to reflect the venue's dual purpose. Stage 201 operates as both a performance space and a pizza shop, described on its facade as “Performance Pizzas @ Stage 201.” The chef figure represents the kitchen, while the saxophonist represents the stage. Emory’s work is already on permanent display at history museums in Florida and New Mexico.
The artist collaborated on the project with Frank Trunzo, the international auctioneer who owns and operates Stage 201. Trunzo also owns Krazy Kup coffee in Plant City. The partnership combined Emory’s return to his hometown with the venue's identity as a local gathering place. The new entrance serves as a landmark visible from the street before visitors enter the building.
Meanwhile, the City of Plant City has issued safety reminders for Halloween. The city advised residents to wear bright colors or reflective tape to improve visibility. Trick-or-treaters should remain on well-lit streets and use sidewalks when available. The city recommended traveling in groups with an adult and using extra caution when crossing streets. Participants should bring water and a charged phone. Caregivers must check all candy before children eat it and ensure children can breathe and see clearly if wearing costume masks. Drivers are asked not to block roads or park improperly during the event.
Charlie Griffin Road will close at the intersection with James L. Redman Pkwy starting November 5. The closure is expected to last approximately 14 days. Northbound and southbound lanes on James L. Redman Pkwy will remain open to traffic. Motorists on Charlie Griffin Road should plan alternate routes. The closure was originally scheduled for October 25 but was delayed to resolve utility concerns. Drivers are urged to watch for posted traffic control devices in the area.
The City of Plant City and the Plant City Running Club will host the 10th Annual Cinnamon Roll 5K Run on Thanksgiving morning. The event takes place on Thursday, November 26, at 7:00 a.m. from Ellis Methvin Park at 2601 E Cherry St. Proceeds from the race will support the City of Plant City Parks & Recreation Department. Funds will go toward local community programs, park maintenance, and recreational activities for youth. Participants can run, jog, or walk the course. Finishers will receive a custom medal, coffee, water, and a cinnamon roll. Age group awards are available for the top three male and female participants in each category. Thanksgiving-themed costumes are encouraged.
Online registration for the 5K is open now and closes on Friday, November 20. There will be no race-day registration. Participants can sign up or view the course map at runsignup.com/Race/FL/PlantCity/CINNAMONROLL5K or by emailing cinnamonroll5k@gmail.com.
Daylight saving time ends on Sunday, November 1, when clocks move back one hour at 2:00 a.m. across most of the United States. The change returns the country to standard time. Residents will gain an extra hour of sleep but will experience earlier sunsets. The shift may require adjustment for children, students, and those with early morning schedules. Experts recommend maintaining consistent sleep routines and getting natural sunlight during the day. The time change is also a recommended period to replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Drivers should remain alert during evening commutes as darkness arrives earlier.
