12.1.22 PLCO

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Agents for the International Association of Firefighers (IAFF), who were certified as the xclusive bargaining agent of Plant City’s rank and file firefighers and paramedics in Nov. 2021, were unable to come to an agreement on fie issues related to employment contract negotiations between itself and Plant City’s negotiation team for the next fical year. After several months of

attempting to resolve these issues, the IAFF declared an impasse in Oct. and, by law, the City Commission, as the legislative body, heard the positions of the union and the administration at a special public hearing this week and then took action to resolve the issues.

MICHELLE CACERES

As a part of their morning worship on November 27th, the members of Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 North Park Road, Plant City presented a gift to Mary Heysek, Director of the United Food Bank of Plant City.

This check of $2,000.00 represents a portion of the proceeds received from the congregation’s Annual Turkey Supper that took place at the church on Nov. 6. Several years ago, a member of the congregation’s board of directors recommended that the church come together to bless others and in response, Hope gives all profis from their annual Turkey Supper and Peanut Booth at the Florida Strawberry Festival to mission opportunities in Plant City and beyond. Hope’s pastor Rev. Dean Pfeffer has been a board member of the Food Bank for a number of years and currently serves as board secretary. For the congregation, joining with the Food Bank has become a passion for the congregation to work together to eliminate food insecurities.

The 24th annual tree-lighting ceremony at downtown’s McCall Park in Plant City marks the start of the holiday season each year. A 20+ foot live tree is adorned with lights “purchased” by individuals, families and businesses in honor or memory of friends and loved ones, with proceeds benefitting the may services and programs at South Florida Baptist Hospital. Lights of Love will take place on Thursday, Dec. 1 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at 100 N. Collins St. in downtown Plant City.

And the following night, the Plant City Christmas Parade will bring a wave of lights and exciting flats back to Plant City. This year’s parade is made possible in part because of their major sponsors in Stingray Chevrolet, Unity in the Community and the City of Plant City, also in partnership with the Noon Day Rotary of Plant City, the Lions Club of Plant City, Plant City Parks & Rec, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and Winn Dixie. This year’s parade will feature an alternate route, start-

ing at Evers St. and Ball St., heading north on Evers to Reynolds St, turning right on Reynolds and coming to an end near the Plant City Court House. The Parade will run from 7 to 9 p.m.

PLANT CITY FIRE RESCUE MEDIC GRADUATES FROM HONOR GUARD ACADEMY

Plant City Fire Rescue medic Dalton Givens graduated from the Honor Guard Academy on Nov. 18, held annually at the Florida State Fire College in Ocala.

The Academy is an intense one-week program of instruction that trains fie service department members to become members of their honor guard. The annual Florida Fallen Firefigher Memorial is held and Givens subsequently marched with not only his academy class, but with other members of the honor guard teams throughout the state of Florida.

The National Honor Guard Association specializes in providing honor guard training to fiefighers, police officers and EMS personnel. Their honor guard train-

ing focuses on how to care for the family of an emergency service provider on their greatest day of need – the day they bury their loved one.

“There are a host of traditions in the emergency service community and we teach honor guards how to preserve those traditions with honor, dignity and respect,” the National Honor Guard Association says. “We are the trusted team that brings tradition and precision together. We are the ambassadors that match the compassionate needs of the family with the traditional needs of the emergency service department.

Should one of our brothers or sisters pay the ultimate sacrifie, the newly acquired knowledge of NHGA graduates makes them properly prepared to provide a family with the support needed to properly honor their loved one.”

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH PRESENTS CHECK TO UNITED FOOD BANK OF PLANT CITY

LIGHTS OF LOVE AND CHRISTMAS PARADE RETURNING TO PLANT CITY THIS WEEK

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Get In The Spirit At Local Events

Have a holly jolly time at one or all of these holday activities.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and if you’re looking for a little holiday cheer, here is a sampling of events where you can be dazzled by shimmering lights, enjoy a picture with Santa, don an ugly Christmas sweater, listen to holiday tunes and more.

TAMPA BAY’S FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS & SANTA’S VILLAGE

Location: Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, 215 Sydney Washer Road, Dover Dates: Nov. 24 - Jan. 1, various dates and times

Cost: $20 - $25 per carload (up to 8 people) depending on the day More than one million lights envelop a two mile drive-thru experience. An expanded Santa’s Village will feature craft stations, visits with Santa, a petting zoo, camel rides, holiday treats, an inflaable snow tube, holiday-themed rides and a self-guided walking tour of Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village decked out in festive lights. For more information visit www. hillsboroughcountyfair.com.

SHIMMERING LIGHTS WINTER NIGHTS

Location: Sun -Kissed Acres, 2302 North Dover Road, Dover Dates: Nov. 25 - Dec. 31, various dates and times

Cost: $7.50 to $8.50 per person

A self-guided walking trail through dancing lights to music, outdoor movies, scavenger hunt, maze, games and more. For more information visit www.nightsofshimmeringlights.com.

CHRISTMAS LANE

Location: Florida Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds, 2508 West Oak Ave.

Dates: various days from Nov. 25 - Dec. 24,6 p.m. - 10.m.

Cost: $8 plus tax for ages 13 and up, $5 plus tax for ages four - 12, free for ages 3 and under

In its 40th year, Christmas Lane eatures dazzling light displays, tasty concessions, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, a light maze, live entertainment, rides and more. Purchase tickets online or at the gate. Parking is free and is located immediately in front of the Charlie Grimes Family Agriculture Building.

GLORIOUS NIGHT: A DRIVE-IN CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW

Location: First Baptist Church of Plant City Dates: Nov. 27 - Jan. 1, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Cost: FREE

Come see a synchronized light display featuring more than 75,000 programmed lights, music and a message of hope. For more information visit www.FBCOC.com/ events.

TWENTY-FOURTH ANNUAL LIGHTS OF LOVE HOLIDAY EVENT

Location: McCall Park, 100 North Collins Street Dates: Thurs., Dec. 1, 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. Cost: FREE

Plant City’s General Services Division has been hard at work installing the holiday displays which will be turned on during the Lights of Love ceremony. Listen to a holiday concert featuring First Baptist Church of Plant City Children’s Choir at 6:30 p.m. followed by the tree lighting at 7 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photos for a small donation to the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation.

PLANT CITY CHRISTMAS

PARADE

Location: Downtown Plant City Dates: Fri., Dec. 2, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Cost: FREE

The parade route this year is different than in years’ past, traveling north along Evers Street from Ball Street, will turn eastbound on West Reynolds Street and end at the Plant City Courthouse. Road closures begin at 5 p.m. so if you’re not attending the parade you may want to avoid the area.

WOMEN’S CHRISTMAS TEA

Location: Faith Assembly, 4240 North Frontage Road Dates: Sat., Dec. 3, 9 a.m.

Cost: FREE

Join in the fellowship and fun at this women’s tea. Come dressed as your favorite Christmas movie character. For more information visit www.faithplantcity.com.

MERRY MARKET AT PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL

Location: Plant City High School, 1 Raider Place Dates: Sat., Dec. 3, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Cost: $5 per person

Shop local this holiday season at the fifth annual Merry Market, a small-town shopping experience bringing together boutique vendors, one-of-a-kind crafters and local artisans. Vendors will be showcasing home decor, apparel, jewelry and handmade crafts. The event will also feature a car show.

PANCAKES WITH SANTA

Location: Keysville Rec. Center, 9390 Edison Road, Lithia

Dates: Sat., Dec. 3, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Cost: Free

Come enjoy a free pancake breakfast, Christmas crafts, cookie decorating, inflaables and more. Don’t miss getting a picture with Santa.

UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER TEA PARTY!

Location: GracePoint Church Plant City,

1107 Charlie Griffinoad

Dates: Sat., Dec. 3, 11:30 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Cost: FREE

Ladies, wear your best ugly sweater and bring an appetizer to share. To RSVP your spot visit www.gracepointpc.org.

A NEW NOEL, A HOLIDAY CHORAL

Location: First United Methodist Church, 303 North Evers Street, Plant City Dates: Sat., Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. Cost: $15, children 12 and under are free The Plant City Community Chorale is pleased to announce its annual Christmas concert, A New Noel. Sponsored by Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, the musical offerings will feature songs of peace, love and charity, from seasonal favorites such as Silent Night and The Holly and the Ivy to beautiful French, Spanish and Latin pieces. Tickets are available at www.pcchorale.org.

CHRISTMAS TRIVIA NIGHT

Location: Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City Dates: Tue., Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Cost: FREE

It’s the season for Christmas trivia. Grab your smartest elves and head to Keel Farms to test your knowledge of the most wonderful time of the year. Don your favorite holiday costume to get in the spirit. Top three teams win prizes.

NOSES OFF! A RUDOLPH CHRISTMAS STORY

Location: Plant City Entertainment, 101 North Thomas Street, Plant City Dates: Fri., Dec. 9 and Sat., Dec. 10, 8 p.m. Cost: Adults $23/Seniors & students $18/ Members and groups of 10+ $16 This musical is a joyful celebration of Christmas for the entire family featuring classic holiday tunes. When Rudolph’s red nose turns itself off on Chritmas Eve, Santa and his reindeer must race against time to help him turn it back on and save Christmas. All proceeds benefit the ontinuing operation of Plant City Entertainment. For more information visit www.plantcityentertainment.com.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CROONERS

Location: Plant City First Church of God, 601 North Gordon Street, Plant City Dates: Sat., Dec. 10, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Cost: FREE

An old-fashioned holiday variety show featuring the music of Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Dean Martin and more. For more information email pcfcog@gmail.com or call (813) 752-6438.

JINGLE JAM

Location: Faith Lighthouse Church, 3409 Paul Buchman Highway, Plant City Dates: Sat., Dec. 10, 6 p.m. Cost: FREE

Looking for a little fun this Christmas season? Take a break from baking and shopping to enjoy an unforgettable experience complete with Florida snow, pictures with Santa, s’mores, games, music and more.

CHRISTMAS LIGHT RUN

Location: McCall Park Dates: Tue., Dec. 13, 6:30 p.m. Cost: FREE Hosted by Plant City Running Club, come run (or walk) through downtown Plant City to burn a few calories while enjoying the Christmas lights.

ALL ABOARD! THE POLAR EXPRESS PAJAMA PARTY

Location: Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon Street, Plant City Dates: Thu., Dec. 15, 4 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Cost: FREE Bring the entire family out for a fun time reading and watching The Polar Express with hot cocoa, games and more.

STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN

Location: McCall Park, 100 North Collins Street, Plant City Dates: Sat., Dec. 17, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Cost: FREE

Come out and see classic cars and trucks while DJ John Paul Gasca spins some toetapping tunes.

KEEL FARMS CHRISTMAS WINE RUN 5K

Location: Keel & Curley Winery Dates: Sat., Dec. 17, 9 a.m.

Cost: $40, price increases after Dec. 6 Like walking or running and wine? This race is for you. Join in on a “Christmasthemed” timed race. Registration fee includes a t-shirt, wine glass, finisher medal race bib and a pour of wine. For more information visit https://runsignup.com/Race/ FL/PlantCity/KeelFarmsWineRun5k.

SANTA SLED FESTIVAL

Location: Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, 1601 East Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard Dates: Sat., Dec. 17, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Cost: FREE

The Plant City Black Heritage and Des’Aimes Social Club hosts this annual event that provides toys, groceries, clothing and more to local families in need. To register for the event, families can obtain an application at Plant City Chamber of Commerce, located at 118 West Reynolds Street or at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, located at 302 South Maryland Avenue.

This

A NUMBERS GAME

1200 block of W. Grant St.

Simple battery / aggravated assault: Officers responded to the business at the listed location and met with the victim who stated that he was jumped by four unknown individuals for no reason.

TRAILER TRASHED

2000 block of W. Spencer St.

Grand theft: An officer responded to the residence at the listed location and met with the victim who reported a 28-foot enclosed snow mobile trailer was stolen.

LOOSE CHANGE

100 block of W. Spencer St.

Residential burglary / grand theft auto: Officers met with the victim at the listed location who stated that someone entered their residence and stole a jar of change, a battery charger and their vehicle.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

N. Shannon St. / E. Cherry St.

Grand theft auto / flee o elude / resist without violence: Plant City Police received an assist request from the Lakeland Police Department in reference to a stolen vehicle fleeing from LPD officers. One individual was subsequently arrested for grand theft auto with fleeing o elude law enforcement. The individual’s license was also actively suspended for habitual traffic ffenses and the individual was additionally charged accordingly and transported to Orient Road Jail without further incidence.

NOVEMBER 19

RETURNED TO SENDER

1700 block of E. Alsobrook St.

Recovered stolen vehicle: An officer was dispatched to a recovery of a stolen vehicle due to a private impound at a separate location.

GONE GUN

1 Police Pl.

Recovered stolen fiearm: Plant City Police Department communications received a teletype from the Tampa Police Department in reference to a recovered fiearm that was previously reported stolen on June 3, 2021.

NOVEMBER 20

SOMETHING SEEMS OFF

600 block of N. Franklin St. Drug arrest: Officers responded in reference to a suspicious vehicle call. Once at the listed location, officers arrested one individual for possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting arrest without violence. The individual was then transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL

N. Frontage Rd. / N. Wheeler St. DUI arrest: An officer responded to the listed location in reference to a subject that was observed to be sleeping in their vehicle. One individual was subsequently placed under arrest for DUI and refusal to submit to testing.

NOVEMBER 21

ONE BIG CHECK

1300 block of E. Young St. Warrant arrest: An officer made contact with an individual who identified themselves by their name and date of birth which was confirmed An FCIC/ NCIC check returned to show that the individual currently had an active Polk County warrant for failure to pay child support with a purge amount of $50,385.25. The warrant was confirmed at the individual as subsequently transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

CARD SHARK

1500 block of W. Reynolds St. Theft: An officer met with the victim at the listed location who advised that someone stole their wallet, valued at $20, containing his Florida identifiation card, social security card and four debit cards.

NOVEMBER 22

THE MAKINGS OF A FUN NIGHT

100 block of W. Spencer St. Vehicle burglary: An officer met with the victim who advised that someone broke into his motor home and stole two vodka bottles and an axe.

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MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

THE FIVE ISSUES IN DISPUTE INCLUDED:

1) Wages- The Union proposed a three-year contract that would raise wages by 36% over three years. It proposed imple menting a step plan that would provide annual increases of 4% and 8% across the board each of the three years of the con tract. The City rejected the step plan and counter-offered a one-year contract with an increase of wages of 6% plus a merit increase of 4% on the employees’ anniver saries after receiving a successful annual evaluation.

2) Living Radius- The City pro posed that firefighters hired after the effective date of the agreement will reside within Hillsborough County or 20 miles of City Hall. Union negotiators don’t support this residency requirement.

3) Half-Time Pay- The Union pro posed to include vacation time in calculat ing entitlement to overtime pay. The City rejected this proposal.

4) Sick and Vacation Days- The Union requested that bargaining unit members receive the same number of sick or vacation shifts as employees receive sick/vacation days. The City disputed this because firefighter shifts are longer than other City employees’ shifts.

A dozen firefighters sat stoically in the meeting room, dressed in union t-shirts or their official uniforms, as they intently listened to 30-minute presentations by attorney Robert McKee, who represented the Firefighters Union, and attorney Tom Gonzalez of GreyRobinson, who repre sented The City of Plant City.

During his remarks, McKee reminded commission members that firefighters put their lives on the line every day for resi dents of Plant City. He clarified his posi tion about the need for a three-year con tract to provide continuity for workers but most of his remarks focused on closing the wage gap between Plant City’s firefighters and those working in surrounding cities and counties. McKee cited a study whose findings highlighted the disparity in pay between Plant City firefighters and those that work in neighboring departments. He claimed the pay gap is one reason 18 employees left the department during the last five years. One of the most recent employees to leave joined Tampa Fire-Res cue and saw a 28% jump in annual pay.

“The biggest issue here is wages and the union wholeheartedly believes that wages must increase to help recruit and retain these well-trained individuals,” said McK ee.

When it was Gonzalez’ turn to speak, he also expressed his deep regard for firefight ers’ commitment to their jobs.

“The best way to put it is that everything you’ve heard about the wage disparities is all true but if the commission agrees to what the Union is asking for they’ll be getting something that no other employ ee in the city of Plant City has, which is a locked-in look at what their salary will be three years down the road,” said Gonzalez. “If you take out that step plan the pay dif ference we’re talking about this year is only two percent.”

He said the 10 percent increase is inline with raises proposed for all other city employees. “Even if we give the Union everything they’re asking for, we won’t close the gap between this department and other agencies,” he said.

He didn’t envy the decision required by the commission. “It’s awfully easy to be a

lawyer but the hard part is this commission deciding what is in the best interest of the public and I think our proposal meets those needs,” said Gonzalez.

When public comments were allowed, Camryn Henry spoke on her partner, fire fighter Nathan Lamb’s behalf since he was working and unable to attend the meeting. The pregnant woman, expecting a son in April, spoke of the realities of not being able to live on his firefighter salary.

Even with their financial challenges, Henry said Lamb has passion for his job and love of Plant City. “He already bought our baby a toy firetruck and onesies with firetrucks on them,” she joked.

Lamb’s family lives in Plant City and the couple is trying to buy a permanent home within the city’s boundaries. Luck ily, Henry works in Tampa at TECO and earns a good salary (significantly higher than Lamb’s) and Lamb works a second job doing carpentry and construction work.

Members of the City Commission shared their thoughts before the vote.

City manager Bill McDaniel disap proved of the comparison of Plant City to the larger jurisdictions of Tampa and Hill sborough County. “Plant City operates on an annual budget of less than $100 million while Tampa and Hillsborough County have operating budgets many times that amount,” he remarked. “Every city position we have pays less than City of Tampa and Hillsborough County because its jurisdic tions are larger and so is the tax base.”

He said it’s also important to note that the city hasn’t been ignoring the issue of pay and over the last several years has signifi cantly increased pay for all city employees. “There’s been a lot of work done to keep our employees at a competitive rate of pay,” he said.

Mayor Nate Kilton said this was one of the most difficult decisions the he’s had to

make in his six years on the Commission. “I want you to know how much I respect and appreciate our first responders,” he said. “I know how difficult your jobs are and don’t take you for granted.”

A motion was made to approve the City Manager’s recommendation. The motion was seconded then the votes were cast. With a five to zero vote, the City Manager’s recommendation was approved and the decision is final and unappealable.

Firefighters’ reactions to the vote was subdued as they quietly shuffled outside the building to discuss the results. Fire fighter David Jackson said he wasn’t sur prised at the outcome. “We always knew how it was going to go,” he said.

Firefighter Fred Hawkins was emotion al as he spoke about his love for his fire fighter brothers and his desire to give his three-year-old son the best life possible even though he struggles to pay for day care, which eats up most of his salary. “It’s really hard to live on a firefighter’s salary,” he said.

When asked what was next for them, they quickly responded they’re going to continue to do what they always have done. “We’re going to polish our boots, stand tall and show up for work tomorrow and be there when others need us,” one said.

These issues will be included in a collec tive bargaining agreement that contains both the agreed-upon terms of the con tract and those settled by the Commis sion and will be ratified by the bargaining unit and City Manager and then returned to the City Commission for final approval. The contract will be in effect until Sept. 30, 2023.

CITY COMMISSION VOTE TO GIVE FIREFIGHTERS A SIX PERCENT SALARY INCREASE PLUS FOUR PERCENT INCREASE ON THEIR ANNIVERSARY DATE WITH SATISFACTORY EVALUATION.

CITY COMMISSION NOV. 28 MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

COMMISSION APPROVES THE PURCHASE OF NEW DUMPSTERS AND COMPUTER EQUIPMENT AND HEARS MATTERS OF REZONING AND LAND USE DESIGNATIONS.

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

The Plant City Commission meets the second and fourth Monday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall to discuss and vote on official city business.

The Nov. 28 meeting dealt with the approval of two purchases for needed items as well as several legislative public hearings, quasi-judicial public hearings and other resolutions.

PAUL DAVIS Is Named Grand Marshal of Plant City Christmas Parade

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

When Plant City Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis learned that he had been selected as the grand marshal of this year’s Christmas Parade, being held Fri., Dec. 2, during a phone call with Sharon Moody, he felt surprised that his name made the list of possible honorees. “It was humbling because I know there are a lot of deserving people out there,” he said.

While that may be, parade committee members each selected a candidate from among a few names and unanimously selected Davis as its grand marshal. “Some years we have to have to vote twice if there’s a tie but Paul was selected with the first vote,” said Marsha Passmore, one of the Parade’s organizers. “He’s made such won derful contributions to Plant City as presi dent of the Florida Strawberry Festival and since he’s retiring after the next Festival we felt it was a great way to honor him.”

This is Davis’ first time as the parade’s grand marshal.

He can be seen in the parade riding in the grand marshal’s vehicle, graciously pro vided by Stingray Chevrolet, smiling and waving to the crowd. He’ll be the man in the red jacket, as much a nod to the holi day season as to his role at the Strawberry Festival. “People are going to be clapping and cheering for him, there’s hardly a per son in Plant City that doesn’t know him,” said Passmore.

Davis’ vehicle will be near the front of the processional of 75 parade units. Who

pulls up the rear? The treasured visit by Santa Claus. Why was the parade limited to only 75 units? “We limited the number of entrants several years ago because the little ones were falling asleep before Santa’s float traveled past them,” said Passmore.

Be aware the 0.8 mile parade route has changed this year. It will start at the cor ner of Evers Street and Ball Street, head north on Evers Street to Reynolds Street, turn right on Reynolds Street and end at Michigan Avenue at the Plant City Court house. Road closures will begin at approxi mately 5 p.m. The parade will start at 7 p.m. Plenty of strands of beads and candy will be handed out to children along the route. Barricades will be posted along the parade route to safeguard those in attendance, however it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on little ones eager to get some treats and a closeup of Santa.

City manager Bill McDaniel said the tree lighting on Thursday night and the parade on Friday is the perfect start to the holiday season. “These are events where I really begin to feel the holiday spirit because everyone in Plant City comes out and when the lights get turned on Thursday night it’s a special moment,” he said.

He would like to extend his gratitude to the General Services staff, who have put a lot of time and effort into adorning the downtown area with more than a thousand lights and other holiday decor. “They work hard to hang all the decorations so people can enjoy them,” he said.

For more information about the parade visit www.pcchristmasparade.homestead. com.

COME OUT FRIDAY NIGHT TO SEE DAVIS AND THE 75 OTHER PARADE UNITS TRAVEL THROUGH THE STREETS OF DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY.

Photo Courtesy of PC Strawberry Festival

Meals on Wheels Rolls Through Plant City Delivering Food to Seniors

MICHELLE CACERES STAFF WRITER

Plant City resident Lee Maguire used to enjoy driving from house to house with Meals on Wheels, dropping off a hot, nutritious meal to senior residents who can’t shop or cook for themselves. She’d been a volunteer with the organization for ten years and found a lot satisfaction in the service she provided to the community.

“It was the most rewarding work I’ve ever done,” said Maguire.

A visit to her eye doctor two years ago changed every thing. Maguire, then 88-years-old, was diagnosed with macular degeneration. She was told it wasn’t safe for her to drive anymore, which also meant giving up her precious delivery route. “It was so awful because I had to sell my car,” she said.

With no transportation, and with little desire to cook anyway, Maguire went from a Meals on Wheels volunteer to one of its recipients. “I just called up Sharon McKend rick, the office manager, and asked to be added to the list,” she said. “I really appreciate the meals and don’t know what I’d do without them.”

FishHawk

Lee,

organization, delivers a meal to Maguire on Mondays. This week’s meal was chicken and dumplings with mashed sweet potatoes, green beans, a dinner roll and a slice of pie.

Lee said it’s the perfect way for her to help others. Her husband is a retired officer with a degree in Political Sci ence. “I really love that I don’t have to care about anyone’s politics,” she said. “I just feed them.”

Meals on Wheels, a nonprofit, nondenominational cor poration, has been serving meals to Plant City’s home bound residents for 32 years. Its volunteers deliver food to 40 recipients on seven routes throughout the city. Hot meals are purchased from Winn Dixie, where employees prepare the meals in the deli every weekday.

Store manager Curt Rotrock said one team member comes in at 5 a.m. to prepare the meals. “Her main focus every day is making sure she knocks out all the meals, preparing them and putting them in disposable contain ers and putting them in a cooler with an ice pack,” he said. She does her best to make sure each participant gets a meal that adheres to any dietary restrictions. The menu varies each day, from beef stew to ham to chicken dishes.

Each meal costs Meals on Wheels $6.25, $5 of which they pass on to meal recipients on a sliding scale based on what they can afford to pay. In addition to recipient contribu tions, the organization also receives funding from contri butions from members of the business community and service organizations and from Unity in the Community. “One of Meals on Wheels’ original agents, Nancy Bar nett, who’s been living in Atlanta for years, still sends us a monthly donation,” said McKendrick.

“Support from the community through donations as well as volunteer drivers is critical to our success,” said Meals on Wheels of Plant City President George Newman.

For more information about signing up for the meal ser vice or volunteering, call (813) 754-9932.

resident Lauren

another volunteer with the

LUXURIOUS INFINITI QX50 SUV WILL PAMPER YOU!

BY NITISH S. RELE

For 2022, Apple CarPlay compatibility and ProPilot Assist are standard on all Infiniti X50 trims along with some minor updates. Otherwise, it’s the same midsize luxury SUV as before. Which is just fine with us.

A 2. 0-liter variable-compression 4-cylinder turbo engine develops plentiful 268 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 280 poundsfeet of torque at 4800 rpm. The slick and smooth continuous variable transmission shifts effortlessly. Ensuring stability at quick turns and bumps on the road is a MacPherson strut front and a rear multilink suspension. The variable-assist, direct adaptive steering conveys an unswerving feel. Braking duties are handled exceptionally well by 13-inch vented front and 12.1-inch rear discs. Four drive modes are offered: standard, eco, sport and personal. Based on a steel unibody structure, QX50 is undoubtedly a boldly attractive vehicle beginning with a long clamshell hood that meets up with a double-arch black-metallic grille, surrounded by horizontal LED headlights and fog lamps. The aluminum roof rails are standard as are the chrome dual exhaust tips and rear tail lamps that connect to the chrome strip. The cabin is crammed with extravagance and luxury features such as aluminum accents on the center console, dashboard, doors, push-button ignition, 60/40-split rear seat, eight-way power front seats, dual auto a/c, 8-inch upper touch screen for navigation and a 7-inch lower screen for climate, audio and phone controls. InTouch, a rotary knob in the center console, controls the dual screens. The familiar Infiniti doublewave instrument panel lights up with electroluminescent gauges. A mix of leather and aluminum on the short but

easy-to-grip shifter knob gives a classy touch. As for roominess, there is plenty with a total interior volume of 135.8 cubic feet, and 64.4 cubic feet with the rear seat down. There also is a substantial hidden under-floor bin

Dual front, side and knee airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, vehicle dynamic and traction controls, antiskid system, front/rear crumple zones, front seat active-head restraints, blind spot and lane departure warnings, rear-cross traffi alert and tire pressure monitoring system are standard. Looking into the future of autonomous transport, ProPilot Assist helps drivers to maintain their lane, and set vehicle speed and distance to a car ahead. Evidently, this carlike crossover is no gas sipper but the QX50 does offer oodles of extravagant treats to coddle its occupants. And the nimble Infiniti is quick on the oad, touting a fist-rate ride and commendable handling.

QX50 (ESSENTIAL AWD)

Tires: 235/55R19

Wheelbase: 110.2 inches

Length: 184.7 inches

Height: 66 inches Width: 74.9 inches

Fuel capacity: 16 gallons

City: 22 mpg Highway: 28 mpg

Weight: 4,105 pounds Base price: $48,950 Price as tested: $49,975 Web site: www.infinitiua.com

Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabaycom and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.

CUTEST CRITTER

ZENDAYA: Diana Shuman sent the Observer this photo of her Weimaraner, Zendaya, who loves lounging around on the bed.

PLANT CITY ANNOUNCES TERRENCE HICKS AS

NEXT HEAD COACH

SPORTS PLANT CITY FALLS JUST SHORT AGAINST NEWSOME IN SEASON OPENER

After joining the Raiders’ staff as dfensive coordinator last season, Hicks will be Plant City’s third head coach in three seasons.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Plant City High School announced this week that for mer defensive coordinator Terrence Hicks will be the newest head coach for the Raiders’ football program.

“We knew that when Coach Clayton left that we would have big shoes to fill, but Terrence had been his right hand man,” Plant City principal Susan Sullivan said. “He’s been the one on campus all season, working with our boys and making sure that they’re doing what they need to do at school academically, that they’re in class, they’re on time, they’re working hard, he’s been the one that’s handled a lot of the communication. He’s just done a really good job and the kids really respect him so we felt like it was a natural next step to move ahead with him at the head coach position.”

A former defensive back at Wharton High School in Tampa, Hicks played football at Southeastern Uni versity and joined the Raiders’ coaching staff in 2022 following stops as defensive coordinator at Alonso High School and Wharton. Following last month’s announcement that Michael Clayton would be step ping away after one season at Plant City, Hicks was named interim head coach the following day.

For the Raiders, Hicks will be the program’s third head coach over the last three season. Head coach James Booth led the Raiders for six seasons, amass ing an overall record of 29-23 after taking over ahead of the 2017-2018 season. In that time, Plant City won a district championship over Tampa Bay Tech on the heels of a 9-2 season in 2018. The Raiders finished the 2021 season under Booth with a 6-4 record in the regu lar season and earned a spot in the regional quarterfi nals. In Plant City’s lone season under Clayton — a year in which the Raiders saw a massive student turnout yet fielded an extremely young roster that featured just a handful of seniors — they finished with a 3-7 record, with wins coming over 4-6 Hillsborough, 7-3 Alonso and 2-8 Jefferson.

In addition to Hicks being named head coach, Will Blankenbaker will rejoin the Raiders’ staff as offensive coordinator as it appears that Kenny Kelly — Plant City’s offensive coordinator for the 2022 season — will not be a part of the staff moving forward.

“We’re bringing back Will Blankenbaker who had stepped away from the program for a while, but he’s coming back and he’s worked really hard for our kids with recruiting and he’ll be the offensive coordinator,” Sullivan said. “We think that this will all be a really good fit and a continued way to build our program as Coach Hicks already has those connections with the kids. I think that this is the right thing for our program and the right thing for our kids.”

Plant City made their way to Lithia on Friday in hopes of claiming revenge against a Newsome squad that ended the Raiders’ district title hopes last season, ultimately falling just short in a contest that came all the way down to the game’s final possession.

Newsome raced out to a quick lead, holding a 17-8 advantage after the first quarter, but the Raiders wasted no time kicking off their comeback battle as senior guard Ray Cowen opened the second with a corner three. Newsome responded with two points at the other end and Plant City forced a turnover on the Wolves’ next possession as senior Damian Jones finished the fast break with a layup to cut the deficit to 19-13. After Newsome tacked on one with a lone free throw, Jones answered with a turnaround fade on the Raiders’ next possession to make it 20-15. Newsome continued their hot streak by convert ing a midrange jumper and Jones con tinued to lead the charge for the Raid ers as he drilled a corner three for his seventh consecutive point, cutting the Wolves’ lead to 22-18.

As Plant City continued to narrow the gap, trailing 25-22, the Raiders took advantage of a turnover from Newsome by way of a spot-up three-pointer from senior Taylor Teeden that knotted the contest at 25-25. The Wolves were able to regain their lead immediately with a three-pointer of their own but another jumper from Teeden left the Raiders trailing just one as the game hit half time at 28-27.

Newsome was able to extend their lead in the third, opening the half with a 10-4 run to give themselves some breathing room at 38-31, but the Raid ers continued to show resilience and stay composed against their red-hot opponents. A Plant City layup on their next possession ended the Wolves’ run before senior forward Elijah Dawson cut the Newsome lead to just two as he finished an extremely tough bucket through a foul and hit his ensuing free throw. But every time the Raiders con tinued to fight back, Newsome would refuse to give in. By the end of the third, the Wolves built their lead back to 45-38.

Newsome immediately earned a trip to the line in the fourth quarter, adding one, before getting a defensive stop and hitting a three to extend their lead to 49-38. Newsome responded but Plant City once again found a way to make some crucial defensive stands as buckets from junior Malachi Morris and Jones brought the Raiders all the way back to just a two-point deficit at 51-49. With time winding down, New some began to run the clock down with extended possessions that forced Plant City to press with trap defenses in an attempt to force a much-need ed turnover from the Wolves. As the clock ticked down, it finally appeared that the Raiders had caused the key mistake they needed, but the play was whistled for a defensive foul and in a sudden turn of events, Newsome was able to cash in on both shots at the line

to lead 53-49. In response, Cowen drove the lane on the other end and kicked the ball out to a wide open Mike Bell, sink ing a massive corner three to make it 53-52 with 42.2 seconds remaining.

Newsome continued to wind the clock down before Plant City was eventually forced to intentionally foul and send the Wolves to the line, converting on one of two shots to hold a 54-52 lead with 16.2 seconds left. With the game hanging in the balance, Plant City was fouled as they attempted to get off a shot that would have potentially drawn the contest even, but the foul was not considered in the act of shooting and left the Raiders set to inbound the ball with 2.3 seconds left. With one final desperation chance, Bell was able to gather the inbound pass in the paint and get a shot off through a significant amount of contact from the defending Wolves, but the shot wouldn’t fall and the whistles stayed silent as Newsome was able to hold off the rallying Raiders to come away with a 54-52 victory.

The Raiders returned to action on Wednesday against Plant at home and will finish the week at Bloomingdale on Friday.

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

The Raiders battled until the game’s final econds, but ultimately opened their season with a 54-52 loss at the hands of a strong Newsome squad.

Photo courtesy of Plant City Fotball

WRITER

Durant soccer made their way to Bloomingdale on Monday to take on a strong duo in the Bulls’ boys and girls teams.

Durant’s boys, entering the night at 1-1-1, narrowly fell to the undefeated Bloomingdale squad by way of a 1-0 final while Durant’s girls entered the night at 4-0 and were able to remain undefeated with a 6-2 victory.

In the Cougars’ fist contest, the boys went into halftime trailing 1-0 after a fist half goal from Bloomingdale junior Giovanni Morales. In the second half Durant would need to push to level the match, but Bloomingdale was able to control possession and the pace of play along with it, forcing the Cougars to rely on sporadic counter attacks and long passes up the wing, a scenario that left Durant’s scoring chances few and far between.

Bloomingdale nearly pushed their lead to two early in the second half as a cross was sent into the box in the 44th minute, connecting with the head of a Bulls’ forward but resulting in a shot sent just wide of the goalpost. Durant was able to manufacture a pair of meaningful chances in the match’s dying minutes but were unable to break through as they fell to 1-2-1.

The girls match was an intriguing nontournament battle between two teams that are both featured in Tampa Bay Top Ten’s area-wide Champions League, with 4-0 Durant at 1-0 in tournament play, sitting atop a group that features Calvary Christian, Sickles and River Ridge, and 4-0-2 Bloomingdale also at 1-0 in tournament play and leading a group that features Land O’ Lakes, Academy of the Holy Names and Wiregrass.

Durant immediately imposed themselves as the match’s aggressor, holding possession and repeatedly beating their defenders up the wings to ultimately create golden chances inside the 18-yard box. In the seventh minute, sophomore forward Mykala Ulrich beat her defender up the right side and delivered a beautiful pass in front of goal but the shot was sent just high over the bar. A few minutes later Ulrich was on the move up the right side again, earning a throw in that she quickly put on the feet of junior forward Kassidy Oliver, passed off o freshman Addison Kapustiak at the top of the 18-yard box and fied just wide, another razor thin miss for the Cougars.

With time ticking away in the fist half Durant eventually capitalized in the 26th minute. A through ball from junior Kayla

DuBose to Ulrich led to a thwarted cross and a subsequent corner for the Cougars. Freshman Kendal Vician handled the corner kick, headed toward the top of the box where it was put on goal by DuBose to give Durant a 1-0 lead. And in the 33rd minute, a cross from Ulrich was settled near the far post by sophomore Karlie Collins, poked away by a defender but instantly gathered and finished y Kapustiak to extend Durant’s lead to 2-0.

In the 39th minute, just moments before the whistle sounded for halftime, Bloomingdale got on the board as senior Emily Gundin battled her way into the 18yard box and created just enough space to tuck a perfectly placed shot into the net and cut the Cougars lead to 2-1 at the end of the fist half.

Durant started the second half even quicker than they did the fist, with chance after chance before the Cougars broke through as Oliver put the ball on the foot of Collins who beat her defender and put them up 3-1 in the 47th minute.

Bloomingdale immediately responded with what appeared to be a goal from sophomore Jordin Gundin, but the play was ruled offside, and in the 60th minute they once again cut the Durant lead to one as a free kick from the right side was

defleced on frame and into the net by sophomore Mya Cripe, putting the contest at 3-2.

From that moment forward it was as if the floodates opened for Durant’s offense, with Vician converting to give the Cougars a 4-2 lead in the 63rd minute, Ulrich beating a charging keeper to give the Cougars a 5-2 lead in the 72nd minute and sophomore Belinda Posadas cleaning up a chance from Ulrich that was parried away by the Bloomingdale keeper in the 77th minute to give the Cougars a 6-2 lead and seal the victory, allowing them to remain perfect at 5-0 on the year.

On Tuesday, Durant’s girls turned right back around and traveled to Clearwater where they moved to 2-0 in Champions League play — and 6-0 on the season — with a 1-0 win over Calvary Christian. Durant’s soccer teams then hosted Freedom on Wednesday and will wrap up their week against East Bay on Thursday.

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

While Durant’s boys were held scoreless against the Bulls, the girls managed to come away with an impressive 6-2 finish

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS

AROUND TOWN

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

We asked Plant City: What musician or musical group would you most like to see perform at the Florida Strawberry Festival in the future?

“Taylor Swift! I saw her when she came to the festival in 2009.” - Sabrina Cotton

“Cody Johnson, Kenzie Wheeler, Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Bob Seger, Eric Church… Just to name a few.” - Yvette Amy Fender Bennett

“You have one of our favorites already coming.. For King and Country! Last year they had Zach Williams and he was awesome! Keep bringing those types of musicians!” - Shirley Steele

“Eric Church!” - Christine Haney

“Mexican music, at least one performer.” - Eli Paniagua

“Metallica. Wishful thinking, I know.”Shelley Smith

“Hillsong!” - Davetta Hale Meeks

“Charlie Daniels Band, Lorretta Lynn, Reba, George Strait, Dolly Parton. I know some of these I’ll have to wait until I get to heaven.” - Fae Wickwire Smith

“Cody Johnson, Tyler Childers, Zach Bryan, Colter Wall, Whiskey Myers, Turnpike Troubadours, Steeldrivers.” - Dawn Kicklighter

“Lauren Daigle again... she was amazing!” - Ashley Barrett

“Blake Shelton.” - Joy Mounce

“Luke Bryant, Travis Tritt, Van Morrison, Eric Church.” - Deb Ferg

“Carrie Underwood.” - Scott Grace

“Kenny Chesney or Jimmy Buffett.” - Bud McCormick

Plant City Observer

Sara ‘Taterbug’ Ellen Stevens

Sara “Taterbug” Ellen Stevens, 92, of Plant City, Fla., born in Meridian, Miss. on Dec. 22, 1929, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 20, 2022.

Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Wade Allen Combee

Wade Allen Combee, 92, of Plant City, Fla., born in Lakeland on March 12, 1930, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 23, 2022.

Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

David Scott

Sawyer

David Scott Sawyer, 61, of Lakeland, Fla., born in Miami, on Dec. 12, 1961, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 24, 2022.

Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Michael Wayne Singletary Jr.

Michael Wayne Single tary Jr. 35 of Mulberry, Florida, passed away on Nov. 26, 2022. The family will receive friends Dec. 17, 2022 at 2 p.m. for a Celebration of Life at 210 Orange St Mulberry Fl 33860.

Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

Richard Charles Hazzard

Richard Charles Hazzard, 83, of Plant City, FL passed away on Nov. 27, 2022.

Richard was a United States Marine Corps Veteran. The family will receive friends Dec. 2, 2022 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.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Phyllis

Strickland

Hunter

Phyllis Strickland Hunter, 62, of Lithia, Fla., born in Plant City on Jan. 27, 1960, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 21, 2022.

Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Lila Mae ‘Coodie’ Woods

Lila Mae “Coodie” Woods, 96, of Plant City, Fla., born in Midland City, Ala. on Oct. 1, 1926, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 23, 2022.

Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Pastor John A. Garbreana

Pastor John A. Garbre ana, 66, of Dover, Fla., born in Tampa on July 6, 1956, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 23, 2022.

Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Robert ‘Bob’

Jerry Hoffma

Robert “Bob” Jerry Hoff man, 68, of Lithia, Fla., born in Riverside, Calif. on Nov. 24, 1954, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 25, 2022.

Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

Online condolences may be left for the family at haught.care.

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2

PLANT CITY CHRISTMAS PARADE

7 to 9 p.m. in downtown Plant City. The Plant City Christmas Parade is right around the corner, bringing a wave of lights and exciting flats back to Plant City. This year’s parade is made possible in part because of their major sponsors in Stingray Chevrolet, Unity in the Community and the City of Plant City, also in partnership with the Noon Day Rotary of Plant City, the Lions Club of Plant City, Plant City Parks & Rec, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and Winn Dixie. This year’s parade will feature an alternate route, starting at Evers St. and Ball St., heading north on Evers to Reynolds St, turning right on Reynolds and coming to an end near the Plant City Court House.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1

LIGHTS OF LOVE

5:30 to 8 p.m. at 100 N. Collins St. The 24th annual tree-lighting ceremony at downtown’s McCall Park in Plant City marks the start of the holiday season each year. A 20+ foot live tree is adorned with lights “purchased” by individuals, families and businesses in honor or memory of friends and loved ones, with proceeds benefitting the may services and programs at South Florida Baptist Hospital.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3

BLUEGRASS JAM!

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. This is an open invitation for local Bluegrass musicians and fans to come to the Krazy Kup loft and jam, clap hands, stomp feet and enjoy! Krazy Kup holds their Bluegrass JAM on the fist Saturday of every month.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY VETERANS

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served any time in the military, retired or non-retention, and would like to review your benefis 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 tim.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10

FUN WITH FLOWERS

10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.at 303 N. Evers St. The Plant City Garden Club will host another Fun with Flowers event at the First United Methodist Church in Plant City this December. The event will allow you to create your own Christmas centerpiece with instruction from Margaret Kirkpatrick, a flwer judge at both the state level in Florida and the national level. Advanced registration is required and admission is $25, covering all supplies and a light lunch however it is encouraged that you bring your own scissors and clippers. The deadline for registration is Dec. 5 and admission can be paid via a check made payable to the Plant City Garden Club and sent to Plant City Garden Club, Att: Donna Severson, PO Box 3471, Plant City Fl.

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 shw everyone what you’ve got.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN

3 to 6:30 p.m. at 102 N. Palmer St. The Plant City Strawberry Classic Cruise-In is back on Saturday, Dec. 17, rain or shine. Cars and trucks manufactured in or before 1996 can register for free starting at 3 p.m. Live music by DJ John Paul Gasca.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 3

BEGINNING MODERN WESTERN SQUARE DANCE LESSONS

6:30 to 8 p.m. at 4401 Promenade Blvd. Head down to the Strawberry Square Dance Center for Beginning Modern Western Square Dance Lessons, starting on Tuesdays in January. No experience is required and the fist lesson is free, with each additional lesson costing $7. For more information or to register, call Cherylene at 770-825-6513 or the Strawberry Square Dance Center at 813-752-0491.

FORECAST

THURSDAY, NOV 23

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Nov 23 7:02a 5:32p

Friday, Nov 24 7:03a 5:32p

Saturday, Nov 25 7:04a 5:32p

Sunday, Nov 26 7:04a 5:32p

Monday, Nov 27 7:05a 5:32p

FRIDAY, NOV 24

Tuesday, Nov 28 7:06a 5:32p

Wednesday, Nov 29 7:06a 5:32p

SATURDAY, NOV 25

SUNDAY,