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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
EVERS STREET FACES TRANSFORMATION
Following an analysis of the new downtown vision plan, the city agreed to explore two big changes to Evers Street. SEE PAGE 5
BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
When the City of Plant City partnered with Main Street Plant City to craft a vision of the future for downtown, it already had a general idea of what changes it hoped to see come to life. Though the general “whats” have become practically common knowledge
downtown, the minor changes needed to make true revitalization a reality were unclear. That’s where Community Design Solutions, a consultant group based out of South Carolina, comes in. The group was hired to create a downtown vision plan that would create simple steps that if taken could directly lead to change in the community.
DASHING THROUGH DOWNTOWN
The Plant City Running Club held its second annual Christmas Light Run on Dec. 17.
BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
As dark clouds rolled in toward Plant City, a group of runners brightened up McCall Park. Donned in Christmas light necklaces, light-up hats, glow sticks, red and green tutus and elf socks, the merry group socialized with friends and introduced themselves to the new faces in the growing crowd. Some of the families gathered took photos in front of the tree and with the light displays while they waited for the final runners to arrive. Jillian Wilder, a member of the Plant City Running Club, passed around the map of the route for the annual Christmas Light Run and explained after the run everyone would meet at Krazy Kup for a hot chocolate, coffee or even ice cream. It’s a new tradition, but one the club expects will continue for years to come. “This is the second year we’ve held the run,” Wilder said. “Last
year it was a 5K, so this year we decided to cut it back. The route is 1.5 miles and it goes through the heart of downtown so that our runners or walkers can have the opportunity to really take in all of the great decorations the city has put up. If the runners want to, they can loop it twice and do a 5K, but it’s really up to whatever the individual runner wants.” Group member Kathleen Hall said one of her favorite displays downtown has always been the snowflakes and angels at the back half of McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. She also loves the Lights of Love tree in the heart of the park that is sponsored by South Florida Baptist Hospital. Others gathered pointed out their favorites as well and planned the perfect spot for photos. Several of the attendees for the run aren’t Plant City natives. In fact there are several members of the club in general that come in from Lakeland, Brandon and Kathleen for the weekly runs.
SEE PAGE 11
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
NEWS BRIEFS
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Photos courtesy of Judy Wise
Ron Johns, president of the Plant City Elks Lodge, donated toys to PCPD officers to keep in their cars in case they encounter children who need them.
PC Elks president donates toys to police When Plant City Police Department officers respond to calls with traumatized children, they’ll now be able to bring the kids some comfort. Ron Johns, president of the local Elks Lodge, recently donated bags and boxes full of stuffed animals and other toys for PCPD officers to carry in their cars and give to children on those calls as needed.
Santa Sled Fest seeking donations The annual Santa Sled Festival is right around the corner. Each year the Christmas giveaway, which is hosted by the Des Aimes Social Club of Florida Inc. and Plant City Black Heritage, helps hundreds of
families have a jolly holiday. The groups give away bicycles, toys, clothing and food to families and local youth. This year’s event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 21 at Marie B. Ellis Park, 601 E. Laura St. They are still in need of turkeys, hams and bicycles for the families, so any donations would be welcomed. For more information on donating, contact Sharon Moody at 813-453-7134.
Hungry Howies owner to help local kids celebrate Christmas Ali Sobh, owner of the Hungry Howies store at 208 N. Alexander St., wants to make sure Plant City kids get what’s on their Christmas wish lists. Sobh is asking the community to nominate 10 kids who come from lessfortunate families in the area so that he
can take them on a shopping trip the week of Christmas and make their holidays a little brighter. Though he’s no stranger to feeding families around Thanksgiving time, which he started doing while living and working in Michigan in the past, Sobh wants to continue giving back and start a new holiday tradition here in his hometown. “To me, it meant the world to see people smile,” Sobh said. If you wish to nominate your family or a family you know of, call Sobh at 586-4411814 or email aksobh7@gmail.com.
Charleene Closshey fundraising for UFBPC This year, if you add Charleene Closshey’s new album to your Christmas playlist, you can also help the United Food Bank of Plant City feed families during the holiday season. Closshey, a Plant City native, recently released “Christmas Time is Here” and is donating 500 signed CDs to the food bank to be sold to the general public. The album features the radio single “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” as well as her take on well-known classics like “Good King Wenceslas,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” and more. Each CD costs $15 and all proceeds benefit the UFB. Cash or checks are accepted.
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
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KIWANIS
LENDS SANTA A HAND
For more than 30 years, Kiwanis of Plant City has set the stage for a merry Christmas for local families thanks to its Christmas for an Angel program. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Thousands of local children will wake up with the present of their dreams under the tree on Christmas morning thanks to the annual Christmas for an Angel program from the Kiwanis Club of Plant City. For more than 30 years, the organization has quietly left its mark on families throughout the community, usually without the children ever knowing Santa had some help on Christmas Eve. Starting in August, the Kiwanians begin pouring hundreds — or in this year’s case, more than 1,000 — hours into the project. Anna Reitz, chairman of the project, said it’s become such a tradition in the community that they’ve got the routine down to a T. Small green slips of paper are distributed throughout the schools. The guidance counselors know who among the students would most benefit from the program and get the slips to the families. Each family then writes down the age and gender of their child and details exactly what the child had been dreaming of for Christmas. “This was started around 31 years ago by Robert Brown,” Reitz said. “He started with 50 students and now it’s blossomed to 1,500 to 2,000 students. It is our major project. Robert was a Kiwanian and he just loved children.” After the green cards are filled out by the families they get back to Kiwanis, who in turn reaches out to the community. There are several sponsors who come back time and again to fulfill the Christmas wishes, but Kiwanis is always looking for others to step up to the plate. The slips are placed within blue or pink envelopes and then the sponsor can go shopping and grab exactly what’s on the paper so the child ends up with the toy or gadget of their dreams under the tree. Groups like Progressive Insurance in Riverview, Stingray Chevrolet, South Florida Baptist Hospital, Southside, Billy Herold and Plant City Rotary, Star Distribution and
more have made giving back an annual occurrence. Their members and employees pick up the cards, run to the store to find the requested gift and then leave piles of the goodies with Kiwanis. Kiwanis then bags them up with the slip attached and its members meet up at Commissioner Mike Sparkman’s office to split the schools up between their cars. Loaded from floor to ceiling the members then drive them to the corresponding schools and drop them off. Many parents are already waiting when they arrive to sneak the present home and get it wrapped before their child gets out of class. Some kids ask for board games, others for a special doll or LEGO set. Some even ask for a bicycle. Regardless of the Christmas wish, the community pulls through and come Christmas morning there are cheers of delight in homes across town. If they receive any donations that aren’t designated to a specific child and end up as “leftover gifts,” they give the items to Kiwanis member Sharon Moody who uses them as gifts for the annual Santa Sled Festival, which helps hundreds of children and their families every year. “When you think of all of the children in Plant City that would not have something underneath the tree if it weren’t for this program, well, that gives you the momentum you need to put in the hours and the work and make sure this is a success,” Reitz said. “And believe me, some of these kids wouldn’t have anything under the tree. But they will have something if they go through this program. One year I got the call that there were seven children that were struggling to have food, let alone presents, on Christmas. They were in a camper and I grabbed a turkey and some toys and let me tell you what, they had themselves a Christmas. That’s why we do this. And if they go through the program we never even have to know their names. All of this is based off of the age and if they’re a boy or a girl and then off of their request. We take it from there. It’s a wonderful program.”
Kiwanis goes to 17 different schools with the Christmas for an Angel program and are always looking for more sponsors to get on board so they can further expand the program to even more children in need. While the club works on it year-round, the ball really gets rolling each August. If you’re interested in partnering with the group next year, call Reitz at 759-9546. Simply tell her how many children you would like to sponsor and she’ll make sure the slips get in your hand in the Photos by Breanne Williams and Karen Berry. fall so you will have ample time The Kiwanians bag up all of the toys and then deliver them to the schools. to buy the gift.
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
DEC. 6
TESTING, TESTING 1200 block of Goldfinch Drive Vehicle burglary: A complainant reported to police that during the night of Dec. 6, an unknown suspect entered his unlocked vehicle and removed a sprinkler survey kit. He said there was no reported damage to his vehicle and nothing else was missing. He requested to have the incident documented for insurance purposes and signed a waiver of prosecution. ANGER MANAGEMENT Palmer Street/Mahoney Street Criminal mischief: This victim’s 2008 Mazda was vandalized. Two of its tires were slashed and its driver’s side mirror was broken.
DEC. 7 THEY SEE ME ROLLIN’, THEY HATIN’ 1500 block of Sammonds Road Drug investigation: Officers conducted a traffic stop on a blue scooter with a tag that exipred in 2013. The driver was placed under arrest for felony Driving With License Suspended or Revoked. He was also found to be in possession of oxycodone without a prescription. He was transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.
NABBED WHILE NAPPING 1500 block of East Calhoun Street Loitering & prowling/possession of meth arrest: Around 1:56 p.m. a man was found laying down in the backyard of a residence where he did not live. The residents of the home did not know who he was. He was arrested for loitering and prowling and possession of meth and was transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.
DEC. 8 OPEN FOR BUSINESS 1400 block of East Calhoun Street Criminal trespass: This complainant reported that at 6 a.m. she found her trunk open and the inside of her vehicle had been rummaged through. MAJOR HAUL 1000 block of North Center Street Burglary residence/Grand theft: This complainant reported that someone entered her home through an unlocked door and removed a flat screen TV, three Nintendo DS consoles, a red elliptical bicycle and a three-wheel bike. IN SEARCH OF ADVENTURE 900 block of North Wills Street Vehicle burglary: During an unknown time the night of Dec. 7, this complainant said an unknown suspect entered her unlocked vehicle and took her passport. TOPSY-TURVY Baker Street/Warnell Street DUI: A man was stopped for
driving the wrong way on Baker Street. Police found he was intoxicated and arrested him.
DEC. 10 GOTTA ROB ‘EM ALL Walden Lakewood Apartments Vehicle burglaries (x10): During the night of Dec. 9, multiple vehicles were entered and items were taken via either unlocked doors or forced entry (broken windows). The burglars hit 10 vehicles at the apartment complex. ONE-WAY TRIP 2900 block of James L. Redman Parkway Stolen vehicle: A U-Haul box van was rented on Nov. 10 from the Sunoco at the listed location and was not returned as expected on Nov. 11. NOW YOU SEE ME, NOW YOU DON’T 2800 block of West Reynolds Street Theft: This victim reported that at approximately 4:45 a.m. Dec. 7, an unknown subject pried off an exterior surveillance camera, which was valued at $750, and stole it from the business.
DEC. 11 YOU’VE GOT MAIL 30 block of South Maryland Avenue Criminal mischief: This complainant reported at an unknown time during the night of Dec. 10, an
unknown suspect damaged the top of her mailbox. She stated she wanted the incident documented and signed a waiver of prosecution. MAKING A WITHDRAWAL 1600 block of McLeod Drive Vehicle burglary: This complainant reported at an unknown time during the evening hours of Dec. 10, an unknown suspect entered his unlocked vehicle and removed approximately $140 in cash. STEALING FOR SPORT 1400 block of East Young Street Theft: Officers responded to a found property report at the 1300 block of North Gordon Street and collected several pieces of opened mail with the above listed residence. Officers responded to the above listed location and learned that the mail contained $1,000 in sports cards that had been stolen from the victim’s mailbox.
DEC. 12 VENDING VENGEANCE 1700 block of North Park Road Criminal mischief: This complainant reported that at an unknown time during the evening of Dec. 11, an unknown suspect damaged the money slot and front face of a vending machine. The complainant requested to have the incident documented and signed a waiver of prosecution.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
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CITY CONSIDERS EVERS STREET REVAMP Two of the City of Plant City’s plans for downtown revitalization involve renovations along Evers Street. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
garbage cans and stairways to apartments above was transformed into Fishbone Alley. An archway was erected above the entrance along with a decorative welcome sign and the garbage was hidden away behind a long mural. Art boxes and interactive displays were strewn along the alley and soon it became a small artisanal landmark in the community. While that was merely an example of what could come to pass the group did suggest the city consider reworking the space into Evers Alley. Because of the current use of the alley, McDaniel said he wasn’t sure if they would end up having it be mixed-use or fully closing off the space. However, he and the city commissioners agreed it was the perfect time to begin exploring the concept. While the specifics are far from being fleshed out, the addition of Midtown on the way and the several other projects McDaniel put forth makes this a game changer for Evers Street. New businesses are flocking to the street and cultural landmarks, like the Photo Archives, deserve to be highlighted. The hope is having a more visibly appealing alleyway as well as interCourtesy photos of Community Design Solutions active or appealing features to draw more people to the street will help boost busi- Above: CDS presented this concept art of a renovation of the alley on Evers Street. Below: Fishbone Alley is one of the examples CDS gave of alleys they’ve transformed in the past. ness all along the block. Evers Street was one of the four outlined parts of the focused design concept presented by CDS. It’s something the consultant group believes can be reimagined in up to two years if the city dives in quickly.
Based on the areas they highlighted, City Manager Bill McDaniel developed a sixpart plan to immediately start moving to give downtown a makeover. City commissioners approved his plan on Dec. 9. Two of the changes recommended for downtown were focused solely on projects along Evers Street. “I like the idea of creating that streetscape with lighting above it,” McDaniel said. “Additions like that to our community are very complimentary of some of the historic buildings we have down here. It gives it ambiance, it gives it character.” Color, vibrancy and lighting were some of the key things CDS said they not only saw a need for, but heard time and again from the public as a complaint about the current downtown. Improving and further highlighting the aesthetics of downtown is the first step in ensuring it acts like a beacon to those passing through. String lights are popping up all over the world in historic communities and tends to draw people toward the area as it signifies there is something worth exploring under their soft glow. The consultant also spent a lot of time discussing the brick found throughout historic downtown. There are brick buildings and brick streets and its something Tripp Muldrow, Courtesy photo the presenter with CDS, said should be played up. In fact, CDS went so far as to Below: The city is considering adding string suggest the city consider adding more lights to Evers Street to boost the visual brick streets downtown in replacement appeal of the area. of the asphalt that zig-zags with the old red brick already in place. The group also spent a moment discussing the alley on Evers Street next to the Plant City Photo Archives & History Center. For years it has remained relatively empty. Cars use it to access the Snellgrove’s drive-up window and to pull into the parking lot behind the building that residents use to leave their cars overnight. A dumpster for the local businesses is housed in the alley as well. CDS showed before and after examples of a project they worked on in Gulfport, MS. A stereotypical alley complete with
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
ELKS CELEBRATE PCPD AND PCFR
The Elks Lodge of Plant City throws a festive annual lunch and dinner for the Plant City Police Department and Plant City Fire Rescue.
Photos by Breanne Williams and Justin Kline.
Left: Members of PCPD enjoyed a hot lunch at the Elks Lodge. Right: This year’s Iron Man Award and Firefighter of the Year Award were given to Mario Soto.
STAFF WRITER
The Elks Lodge of Plant City was filled with holiday cheer last week when the organization hosted its annual lunch and dinner for the Plant City Police Department and Plant City Fire Rescue. The Elks have always gone above and beyond when it comes to supporting their community and for more than 30 years, part of that service has been dedicated to showing their appreciation for local first responders. Way back when the Lodge was on Maryland Street, Mike Smith, former Exalted Ruler and longtime Elks member, began the tradition and it’s been an evening the Lodge has looked forward to ever since.
“I was pulled into it about 10 or 11 years ago,” Judy Wise, veterans chairman and event organizer for the Elks, said. “Somebody got sick and asked if I could do this. It means a lot to me personally and it meant something for the Elks to be able to continue this every year. Even before my son became a police officer, I have had a special place in my heart for our first responders.” Wise said the atmosphere around the nation regarding first responders in general — but especially police — has made hosting the event even more of a priority for the Lodge. She said in Plant City, the community still values its law enforcement and first responders and she hopes when they walk away with full bellies and takeaway meals, they know they are cherished. The dinner
is also open to their families and part of that draw is in hopes their children see that their parents are considered heroes by the Elks. At approximately 7 a.m. on Dec. 12, members of the Elks Lodge filed into the building. Soon the kitchen was bustling with life and the hearty aroma of holiday recipes filled the air. Ham, green beans, scalloped potatoes, hot rolls and a plethora of desserts were baked and presented to the attendees. The menu has stayed consistent for the last five years and Wise said they have the preparation routine down to a science. The day before, she and Elks members Rich and Judy Glorioso spent hours slicing the ham off the bone and getting it ready for easy baking Thursday morning. She said this year, due to some health problems, she asked the
Elks to really throw their support behind this and help bring it to life. Volunteer after volunteer showed up to lend a hand. During the lunch, Police Chief Ed Duncan took a moment to stand in front of the decorated Christmas tree and present two of his employees with the Employee of the Year award. This year both recipients were civilian staff members. The awards went to Brandon Holden and Whitney St. Amant. The party was then in full swing as Duncan raffled off some gifts to those in attendance. The Elks surprised PCPD with a gift during the presentation. Wise’s son alerted her to the fact that many of the defibrillators in the PCPD car’s were not usable due to having old batteries. A group had purchased the lifesaving equipment for PCPD, but as
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time wore on the batteries began to fade. Wise approached the Elks and they agreed to try and get a grant to purchase new batteries for the unit. They were able to score a $2,500 National Elks Beacon Grant and then landed a matching State Elks Marching Grant that gave them a total of $5,000 to spend on the items. However, they were still $750 short of the final price tag. J.J. Calhoun and David Brewington stepped up to the plate and chipped in the remaining funds. Because police are often the first on the scene, having defibrillators on hand can sometimes make the difference in someone surviving a call or not. Wise said seconds count when it comes to heart attacks and strokes, and it was important to the Elks that they help fill this need in the com-
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Photos by Breanne Williams and Justin Kline.
During the yearly Elks law enforcement appreciation dinner the group gave PCPD $5,750 worth of batteries.
munity. They presented the batteries to the police during the ceremony and even volunteered to install them in the machines themselves. The room was full of PCPD employees, several of whom returned to duty following their lunch. As they eventually filed out and headed back to their jobs, the Elks members cleaned up the room, headed back into the kitchen and began preparing for the dinner that was held a few hours later for PCFR. When Fire Rescue trickled into the building, many brought along hearty concoctions and sweet treats of their own. The potluck-style dinner has become a tradition for the department and the room once again filled to near capacity with the abundance of attendees.
Following dinner, a brief before help arrived. The patron overview of the past year was was transported to South Florgiven before launching into the ida Baptist Hospital and pulled award ceremony. Calls were up: through, largely in part to Soto’s in the 2018 fiscal year there had actions at Fred’s. been 5,048 calls to the departHearing the stories from both ment, and in fiscal year 2019 departments and learning just they received 5,217 calls. how hard the first responders In a surprise turn of events, the work to keep the community Iron Man Award and the Fire- safe just encourages the Elks to fighter of the Year Award were make it a point to keep this event given to the same man: Mario going year after year. Wise said Soto. Soto had one impressive the Elks care so much for their year behind him. He responded first responders and communito 852 calls and even performed ty as a whole, and while they’re lifesaving work on his time off. not a civic club on paper, they On the morning of June 3, Soto “absolutely do our part to give was off duty and enjoying a back, more than most people hearty breakfast at Fred’s Mar- will ever know.” ket Restaurant. While there, a Photos by Breanne Williams and Justin Kline. patron entered cardiac arrest Right: PCPD Employees of the Year and slumped over on a table. Soto rushed to his aid and per- Brandon Holden and Whitney St. formed CPR for six full minutes Amant.
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
CUTEST CRITTER
Do you want Plant City to see how cute your favorite pets are? Send your pictures to Staff Writer Breanne Williams at bwilliams@plantcityobserver.com to be featured.
A HOLLY, JOLLY CHRISTMAS LANE
Plant City’s signature Christmas light display has once again brought holiday cheer to town. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
APOLO AND OZZY: They say some of the best friendships you’ll ever make are with those who are different then you. Ozzy and Apolo are living proof that family is all about who you love. Despite being a dog and a bird, the two are the best of friends and love spending time with their family and going on adventures around the house. Follow us on social media: @PCObserver on Instagram, @PlantObserver on Twitter and Plant City Observer on Facebook.
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Christmas in Plant City is incomplete without Lane Wetherington’s signature event. Christmas Lane, Wetherington’s massive annual decorations display, returned to the Charlie Grimes Family Agricultural Center at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds in late November and will be open to the public for the next six days. Packed with lights, giant trees, festive scenes, rides and fresh food, Christmas Lane is a family-friendly experience that’s brought holiday magic to the greater Plant City area for 36 years and counting. IF YOU GO The event is open from 6-10 p.m. from today through Dec. 24. Buy tickets online at christmaslane.com or at the gate for $5 for ages 14 and up, $3 for ages 4-12 and free for kids under 4. The address is 2508 W. Oak Ave.
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BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
This year, Santa Claus traded in his traditional sleigh for a shiny red caboose. Families in the community were invited out to a one-of-a-kind photo op at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, 102 N. Palmer St., on Dec. 13. Not only was the depot filled with toys, presents, wreaths, snowflakes and even an elf-tree, but Santa himself was waiting to meet local youth and find out what they wanted for Christmas. It’s a tradition going several years strong and regardless of whether it’s a clear and starry night or an evening of downpours, the community never fails to come out and support the cause. Hosted by the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum Society, Inc. the event acts as a two-fold evening of festivities. While the photos with Santa are free, those who are able to are asked to bring a toy to donate in exchange. Families get a unique photo of their child with Santa Claus and other children in the community are gifted the donations and find a magical surprise under their trees come Christmas morning. Unlike many other holiday photo-ops, Santa doesn’t simply wait on a plush chair surrounded by fake snow. Instead, he and
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Every year, children are invited out to the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum for a one-of-a-kind photo op with Santa Claus in the museum’s red caboose.
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his elves set up shop in the massive caboose in the depot’s front yard. Children climb the steps and enter the caboose where Santa is waiting on one side with a hearty laugh and joke about his reindeer. Santa’s bed is nestled in the corner along with a tray of candy canes and holiday mugs just waiting to be filled with hot chocolate. After the photos are taken and the children tell Santa what they want for Christmas, they get to walk through the entire car and hopefully spy some of the many Christmas decorations strewn throughout. On their way out the other end, they’re handed a gift and many then meander into the depot to take in the decorations in every room. From there, it’s easy to make a night of the experience. After grabbing a hot chocolate at Krazy Kup, families slowly strolled from one end of McCall Park to the other to soak in the Christmas decorations and pause for photos with the lit-up tree and massive light displays.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
CHRISTMAS PARADE NAMES TOP WINNERS After much evaluation, the four out-of-town judges for the annual Christmas Parade selected the best of the best among the parade units. The winners were honored in a short ceremony on Dec. 12.
BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
This year’s Plant City Christmas Parade was lauded by parade walkers and attendees alike as one of the best in the community’s history. A large part of its success was due to the impeccable quality of the floats, marching bands and decorated vehicles that brought the parade to life. Four out-of-town judges meticulously critiqued every entry and, after much discussion, narrowed them down to the cream of the crop. An awards presentation was held Dec. 12 at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum to honor those who went above and beyond for the event. Plant City Christmas Parade, Inc. President Dodie White welcomed all who were able to attend the special celebratory event and discussed some of the great comments they received over the course of the past week. Several members of the board were also on site for the festivities. “Thank you all for participating. We appreciate you guys more than you’ll ever know,” White said. “I have had nothing but amazing comments about the floats and the units, even just the vehicles that were decorated this year, so you guys all stepped
up your game. Everyone stepped up their game so you were in stiff competition. To say that you actually won and were the best in your category is something to really say and be proud of. You were great, you were all great. Congratulations to you.” The parade may be one night only in December, but the organization spends the entire year bringing it to life. They meet each January for a follow-up meeting and then, come May, dive headfirst into making the next year’s event even better than the one before. The winners all expressed their appreciation. Several said they look forward to the event every year and begin planning months in advance to create the perfect float or unit. With the friendly spirit of competition in the air, they joked they were going to start even earlier to up the ante and make sure they come out on top again in 2020. As the groups smiled for their photos under the glow of the twinkling Christmas lights erected throughout the depot and park by the City of Plant City, there was an abundance of Christmas spirit and holiday cheer. Many stayed long after the celebration taking photos with their trophies and cash prizes with the different holiday decorations around the park.
Best Overall: General Masonry & Concrete Best Marching Unit: Plant City High School Marching Band
Best School: Tomlin Middle School FFA Best Church or Religious: East Thonotosassa Baptist Church Best Business: Quality Septic Inc.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
CHRISTMAS LIGHT RUNNERS
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A group of runners went on a unique tour of Plant City’s Christmas lights in the annual Christmas Light Run. FROM PAGE 1
BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
“This event is a great way to highlight the club and the great community lights,” Hall said. “We all get dressed up and wear lights. It makes it more fun and festive, plus it makes us easier to find and see on the sidewalks. It doubles as a safety feature.” The club is intimate: while the group itself has more than 250 members, there’s approximately 50 that regularly attend runs and events. It makes the experience personal and several of the out-oftowners said they’re able to make connections with the other runners here because of its accessible size, whereas they can feel isolated in the large crowds in clubs in larger cities. The Plant City Running Club is free to join and due-free. There are a variety of weekly runs to fit every schedule and details of the meetups are posted in the club’s Facebook group. Many of the club members recently participated in the third annual Reindeer Run at Alafia River State Park, which is hosted by the GFWC Plant City Junior Woman’s Club. Despite the inclement weather, the group had a blast and Wilder said they frequently try to support each other in whatever events they sign up for in the area. The club prides itself on being open to runners of all experience and age. Whether you’re ready to run a marathon tomorrow or haven’t exercised in years, the running club is ready to welcome you with open arms. Those new to the hobby will benefit from the wisdom of the more experienced runners and also enjoy growing in their journey with those just starting out, like they are.
Photos by Breanne Williams and PC Running Club.
Approximately 50 people come every year to the Christmas Light Run through downtown Plant City. The runners don festive apparel and lights and hit the streets for a short, but merry run.
Tickets On Sale Now! • FLstrawberryfestival.com
Feb. 27 - Mar. 8, 2020 • Plant City, FL Soundstage:
Artists Appearing on the
Rascal Flatts
The Oak Ridge Boys
Thu. Feb. 27, 7:30 $51
Thu. Feb. 27, 3:30 $25
Michael Ray
Fri. Feb. 28, 7:30 $35
Out rVision! Perfec
Roots & Boots - Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw & Collin Raye
REBA McENTIRE Sun. Mar. 1, 7:30 $55
Sat. Feb. 29, 3:30 $30
NEAL McCOY
Mon. Mar. 2, 3:30 $25
PATTI LaBELLE Mon. Mar. 2, 7:30 $35
Tommy James & The Shondells
Fri. Feb. 28, 3:30 $25
An Evening with 98° Sat. Feb. 29, 7:30 $35
Sara Evans
Tue. Mar. 3, 3:30 $30
Dick Fox’s Golden Boys - Starring Frankie Avalon, Fabian, Bobby Rydell
Skillet
Tue. Mar. 3, 7:30 $30
MercyMe
Chubby Checker & the Wildcats Wed. Mar. 4, 3:30 $25
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Josh Turner
Wed. Mar. 4, 7:30 $35
Jimmy Fortune and Dailey & Vincent
Thu. Mar. 5, 7:30 $40
Thu. Mar. 5, 3:30 $30
Bobby Bones & the Raging Idiots
Sun. Mar. 1, 3:30
Fri. Mar. 6, 3:30 $20
#berryfest20 Home of OUR
Darci Lynne & Friends LIVE
Fri. Mar. 6, 7:30 $25
Charlie Wilson Sat. Mar. 7, 7:30 $45
Eli Young Band Sun. Mar. 8, 3:30 $35
Lynyrd Skynyrd Sun. Mar. 8, 7:30 $56
Concert dates and times are subject to change
Visit FLstrawberryfestival.com or call 813-754-1996 and get your tickets for the best seats available!
For more information, follow @PlantCityRunningClub on Facebook or join the Facebook Plant City Running Club Members group.
• Images Everywhere! • Verizon Wireless • Global Frequency Living • AT&T • Circle K • Wyndham Vacation Resorts • Vision Auto Glass • AMSCOT • Uncommon USA • Stingray Chevrolet • Candyland Warehouse • Local Ford Dealers • Master Spas • Dakin Dairy Farms • Good Health Saunas • Metro by T-Mobile • Grove Equipment Service • Astin Farms • Netterfield’s Concessions • Alessi Bakery • O’Reilly Auto Parts • Badcock Home Furniture &more • EVOLVE Pet Food • General RV Center • Florida Blue • T-Mobile
DECEMBER 19, 2019
SPORTS
Reagan Korlacki brings heart and hustle to the Plant City Dolphins 10U Midgets. See Page 14
UYFL’S ‘RUN FOR THE RINGS’
REACHES PLANT CITY The annual youth football national championship tournament took over Ellis-Methvin Park last week. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The United Youth Football League returned to Plant City to host its national championship tournament last week. From Dec. 8-13, Ellis-Methvin Park was the place to be for anyone who wanted to see some of the most skilled youth football teams from around the country duke it out for hardearned hardware. Several teams from the Plant City even got in on the action and won a few national championships along the way.
The UYFL brought in a boatload of teams from all over the country.
WINNERS BY DIVISION Results from UnitedYFL.com
10U All-American D1: DFW Elite 10U All-American D2: Plant City Dolphins 10U All-Star: Tampa Elite 11U All-American D1: Rocburg Elite 11U All-American D2: West 7 Rams 12U All-American D1: DFW Elite 12U All-American D2: ABN Bulldogs 12U All-Star: Tremont Spartans 13U All-American: Blackhawks Elite 14U All-American: Oldtown Ducks 14U All-Star: Pinellas Park T-Birds 15U All-Star: Plant City Dolphins 6U All-American: Ormond Beach Pride 7U All-American: Tampa Bay Jags 8U All-American D1: Northside Pride 8U All-American D2: MOT Cowboys 8U All-Star: Gainesville All-Stars 9U All-American: DFW Elite Cadet: YAM Raptors/704 Elite Kids/Olney Eagles (3-1 records) Junior Pee-Wee: Lakewood Jr. Spartans Mitey-Mite: Beast Elite Ducks Pee-Wee: Somerton Spartans
The Plant City Dolphins 10U team became national champions with a win over the Gainesville Rattlers.
Photos by Justin Kline
The Dover Patriots were among the Plant City-area teams that participated in the 2019 tournament.
The UYFL championships welcome all-star teams featuring players from local schools.
The UYFL’s annual weeklong tourney in Plant City is always thrilling.
WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?
VIPERS BRING NEW LIFE TO PLANT CITY STADIUM
Now that the Tampa Bay Vipers have settled in, the buzz around town is growing.
I have to confess that the reality of the XFL coming back didn’t fully set in with me until I set foot on the reworked Plant City Stadium grass for the first time a few weeks ago. That might have been the case for the hundreds who showed up to the Tampa Bay Vipers’ VIPer Day two Saturdays ago, as well. I say this because in my experience the Vipers have been one of the hottest topics, if not the hottest topic, that’s come up over the past two weeks when talking to folks out here. This is good! I typically field a
lot of questions regarding certain local developments that no one has answers for, so it’s nice to be able to speculate about something fun that nobody’s seen in meaningful action yet. Since I wasn’t in Plant City for the Cincinnati Reds’ spring training heyday at the stadium, I can only imagine having the Vipers around is the biggest pro sports experience we’ve had since Major League Baseball had a presence here.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
PlantCityObserver.com
IPer
DAY AT PLANT CITY STADIUM
The Tampa Bay Vipers invited local fans to their practice field for a fun-filled afternoon. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Tampa Bay Vipers fans from Plant City and more came out to Plant City Stadium by the hundreds over the weekend for the team’s first fan fest. Dubbed “VIPer Day,” the event gave season ticket holders and newsletter subscribers their first-ever chance to see the brand new football team get to work with a walkthrough and a practice session. Players were available to meet and greet fans and sign autographs after putting in work on the field. The event also had food and games, photo opportunities and even a giant snake for brave fans of the Vipers (and Britney Spears) to drape around their shoulders.
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
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FOCUS ON FITNESS:
DANCE YOUR WAY TO BETTER HEALTH
Looking for a fun way to stay fit? Put your dancing shoes on.
Throughout the years, all sorts of dance classes have been popping up on group exercise schedules, dance centers and community centers with the purpose of getting people moving and having fun. Dancing can be a way for people of all shapes and sizes to improve their health, stay fit and even meet new friends. Regular dance as exercise has many benefits, including: • Improved cardiovascular health • Increased muscular strength and endurance • Weight management • Better agility and flexibility • Strengthened bones • Increased balance and coordination • Improved mood • Reduced stress • Greater confidence • Improved self-esteem There are so many different forms of dance and people dance for so many different reasons. Some people dance for fun and others dance to entertain. In some cultures, people dance as part of ceremony. You can dance alone, in a group or with a partner. If dancing in a group setting is not for you, you can dance in the privacy of your own home. There is no right or wrong way to dance, which is what makes it so appealing as a form of exercise. Wondering what to expect in a dancebased class? If you have never participated in any form of dance exercise class before, you can bet the instructor will
choose upbeat music and moves of varying intensities to keep your heart rate up and your muscles engaged. In group exercise classes like Zumba, Line Dancing, Country Heat, Hip-Hop and Barre, you can burn up to 600 calories in one go. For many women, dancing helps them accept their unique body shape as dancers come in all different shapes and sizes. Some dance moves, like hip shaking, are enhanced by curves. Older adults can benefit from dance classes like Square Dancing and Country Line Dancing that are not only physical workouts, but also involve learning new dances (which helps with brain function) and socializing. Check the schedules at your local gym or at the YMCA. Once you decide on a style of class you think you will enjoy, show up to class a few minutes early so you can introduce yourself to the instructor and let them know it’s your first time. Strawberry Square Dance Center in Plant City offers modern Western square dancing from entry to advanced levels. The center also offers beginner and higher-level choreographed ballroom dance classes. Angela Fulgieri is a Program Director for the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA. Write her at observerfitness@ gmail.com.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
JUSTIN KLINE
VIPERS BRING NEW LIFE TO PLANT CITY STADIUM
The Tampa Bay Vipers are making themselves at home in Plant City. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
With that said, I want to touch on the two things I’ve been asked most often. First, how might the Vipers fare against the rest of the league? I have no idea how the other XFL teams look in practice, but the Vipers definitely have some good things going for them. Let’s get the most obvious thing out of the way: Quinton Flowers earned his reputation as one of USF’s alltime greats for good reason and it sounds like getting the ball in his hands will be at or near the top of the offense’s checklist, as it should be. Beyond Flowers, this offense could be a lot of fun to watch considering it’s been designed by multi-time CFL champion Marc Trestman and Jaime Elizondo, most recently the offensive coordinator for the 2018 Grey Cup runner-up Ottawa Redblacks (yes, that’s really their name). If you like offense and you’ve never taken the time to watch the CFL, you should change that in 2020 — you may see some things that the XFL will pick up on this season and that the NFL will pick up on in five seasons. Second, how long will this version of the XFL be around? There’s no beating around the bush when it comes to its original, and only, season — it was a complete disaster for pretty much everyone but Rod “He Hate Me” Smart. You also can’t talk about a football league’s longevity without bringing up its other predecessors. The AAF started play in 2019 and ended about halfway through the season. The UFL lasted for nearly four seasons, but that league never struck me as being run like the legit NFL competitor it wanted to be and time only proved that to be true. History is not on the XFL’s side, but the league does have advantages the others didn’t. The financial backing and ownership situation is solid. The fan-friendly attitude will keep engagement up among
its base better than any alternative football league before it (as long as the league can prove it’s listening, of course). It certainly looks like XFL 2.0 learned from the mistakes of its predecessor, as this new version is going to look and play completely different from the rasslin’-like league of 20 years ago. I agree with something Aaron Murray said after the first Vipers practice about this league not feeling like it was rushed into existence. It’s way harder to get people to watch football that isn’t the NFL or college than folks would like to admit, but maybe the new XFL will be the exception to the rule. It will be interesting to see what the state of the league is in two to three years, but if it gets to that point without too many bumps in the road, it very well could stick around for the long haul. And on that note, if the XFL does succeed, I hope the Vipers will consider staying in Plant City beyond their current lease. The impression I’ve gotten so far is they’re genuinely happy to be in Plant City and are excited to become a bigger part of the community. I know they want to get deeper into community service starting in January, which makes sense considering they basically just got started, so it’ll be exciting to see what they do to help the many local causes, charities and organizations that are just a short drive from the practice facility.
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Reagan Korlacki
When the Plant City Dolphins need Reagan Korlacki to make a play, they can trust the little man to get things done. Korlacki, who plays for the 10U Midgets team, most recently played both offense and defense in all four UYFL championship tournament games and scored four touchdowns in as many games while at running back — including the lone score in the Dolphins’ 7-0 win over Silk City Elite in the second round. Head coach Robbie Jordan calls him a “phenomenal leader, great teammate and has the heart of a lion.” You just wrapped up a busy season and won your division in UYFL. How did it feel to get that ring? Good. That last game was pretty crazy. You all were down 19-7 going into the fourth quarter, recovered two onside kicks, kept possession the rest of the game and came back to win. What did you guys tell yourselves to get motivated? Stay focused and don’t let up. What was the most important play of that game? Punching out those five and six-yard gains, getting first downs. You’ve been with the team for several years now and have been in plenty of big games. Do you get nervous anymore? It just feels like another game. How do you get ready for a game? I listen to rock music and I eat a good breakfast before I go.
Justin Kline is the Sports Editor at the Plant City Observer. Email: jkline@plantcityobserver.com.
Know someone who deserves an Athlete of the Week feature? Email Justin Kline at JKline@plantcityobserver.com by the Friday before the next issue.
Which other positions do you play, besides running back? Linebacker, d-line and quarterback.
Which is your favorite? Running back because you get to have the ball, block for the quarterback and it’s almost the most important thing on the field. When did you start playing football? I started when I was 4 years old and I watched it a few times, and my dad would play with me outside. Do you play any other sports? Basketball, I played baseball and I’m gonna do track. Which football players do you look up to? Barry Sanders.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
SPORTS SCORES AND MORE BOYS BASKETBALL
DEC. 26
DEC. 11
JAN. 7
DEC. 13
Durant at Pensacola Catholic Invite through Dec. 28
Armwood 60, Plant City 12 Melbourne Central Catholic 62, Strawberry Crest 54
Durant, Plant City at Riverview, 6:30 p.m.
Plant City 1, King 0
Newsome 44, Plant CIty 35
DEC. 27
DEC. 14
JAN. 9
WRESTLING
DEC. 12
Plant City at Nature Coast Christmas Tournament through Dec. 29
Lake Mary 37, Strawberry Crest 33
Strawberry Crest at Chamberlain, 6:30 p.m.
DEC. 20
DEC. 20
JAN. 16
Strawberry Crest at the Florida Getdown Holiday Basketball Showcase at St. Francis
Plant City at Parrish Community, 6 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Wharton, 7 p.m.
Western Conference at Durant, 6:30 p.m.
Durant at Riverview 10-way through Dec. 21 Strawberry Crest at Key West Invite through Dec. 21
DEC. 11
JAN. 6
GIRLS BASKETBALL
DEC. 27
DEC. 11
Strawberry Crest at Florida Prospects Christmas Tournament through Dec. 28
Durant, Plant City at Sickles, 6:30 p.m.
Strawberry Crest at Bloomingdale (district duals), 10 a.m.
Bayshore Christian 72, Durant 68
DEC. 28
DEC. 13 Lennard 79, Durant 40 Armwood 94, Plant City 56 Wharton 70, Strawberry Crest 32 DEC. 20 Plant City vs. Leon at Capital City Classic, 1:45 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Jesuit Nike Gulfshore Invitational through Dec. 21
Chamberlain 29, Durant 22 Plant City 66, Mulberry 63 Jefferson 48, Strawberry Crest 39
DEC. 21
DEC. 13
Plant City vs. FSU at Capital City Classic, 4:45 p.m.
Durant 37, Lennard 30
CHEERLEADING DEC. 21
DEC. 21 Plant City at Bartow, 8 a.m.
BOYS SOCCER DEC. 12
Plant City at Bartow, 8 a.m.
Freedom 1, Strawberry Crest 0 DEC. 13 King 2, Plant City 1
GIRLS SOCCER
STATE FARM® AGENT
Tony Lee CLU, CHFC Auto | Annuities | Home | Life | Small Businesses | Retirement
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DEC. 12 Strawberry Crest 5, Freedom 2
JAN. 10 Plant City at Blake through Jan. 11 JAN. 15 Durant at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m. JAN. 16 Plant City at Newsome, 7 p.m. Strawberry Crest at regional duals JAN. 17 Durant at Jerry Mita Invite through Jan. 18
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SPORTS SCORES
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN
289704-1
We asked: When it comes to Christmas, are you more like the Grinch or Buddy the Elf?
“Buddy the Elf.”
“Buddy the Elf.”
— Angela Ardrey
— Mara Latorre-Rivera
“Buddy the Elf.” — Kimberly Hall
“The Grinch.” — Brynna McFarland
“The Grinch.” — Sara Richwine
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
Barbara Ann Carlton
Guadalupe ‘Lupita’ Sanchez
Estelle Naomi Rowell, 83, of Plant City, born on April 6, 1936 in Tampa, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 9, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Barbara Ann Carlton, 76, of Riverview, born in Mango on April 23, 1943, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 10, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Guadalupe “Lupita” Sanchez, 74, of Tampa, born in Brownsville, Texas on Aug. 8, 1945, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 8, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Sophronia Cole, 87, of Plant City, born on September 20, 1932 in Sylvester, Georgia, went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 15, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com
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Lamar Pritchard
Ardelsia Morris
Lamar Pritchard, 94, of Plant City, born in Tampa on July 16, 1925, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 10, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Ardelsia Morris, 98, of Lake City, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 12, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
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HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM
Robin Michele Mitchell Robin Michele Mitchell, 45, of Plant City, born in Media, Pennsylvania on Sept. 18, 1974, went to be with the Lord on Dec. 10, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
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Olive Taylor
Sophronia Cole
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
Frank M. Roithmeier Frank M. Roithmeier, 56, of Plant City, born in Landstuhl, Germany on March 13, 1963, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 13, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
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Delva Walden Register
Matthew Eason Beers
Noel Tracy Martin Sr.
Delva Walden Register, 91, of Plant City, born on Feb. 11, 1928 in Plant City, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 14, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Matthew Eason Beers, 33, of Plant City, born in Pasadena, CA on May 20, 1986, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 14, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Noel Tracy Martin Sr., 83, of Plant City, born in Durant on Dec. 23, 1935, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 14, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
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Olive Taylor, 92, of Mulberry, born on May 30, 1927 in Baltimore, Maryland, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 11, 2019. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
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OBITUARIES
Estelle Naomi Rowell
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each other is what OBITUARIES
PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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community
PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
isRoy allEugene about. Smith III
Edward James Dearnley III
YOUR CALENDAR
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Roy Eugene Smith III, 29, of LakeBEST BET Edward James Dearnley III, land, passed away on Friday Dec. to helping a W E ’RE P ROUD TO S E RVE our community was dedicated born Nov. 7, 1990families create 79, of Plant City, born in Cen- 13, 2019. Roywe’re SATURDAY, DEC. 21 unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. in Tampa. tral As Falls, RI in 1940, entered celebrates the life it represents. your Dignity Memorial professionals, Visitation will be 10 a.m. to 11 into eternal rest on DecemCRUISING INTO 100% ServiceofGuarantee > National Plan Transferability a.m. with funeral service at 11 a.m. ber 15, 2019.> Expressions CHRISTMAS > The Compassion Helpline® 3 to 8 p.m. This > Bereavement TravelatAssistance Wells Memorial Funeral Home condolence at HopewellFuon Friday, Dec. 20, 2019. neral.com. month’s Strawberry Condolences may be offered at Classic Cruise-In is www.WellsMemorial.com the sure to be a family Proudly supporting the Plant City StrawberryforFestival. Smith family. favorite. On top of the beloved classic cars the free event will feature a HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM free movie in the park, a life-sized snow globe, Santa and his reindeer and so much more. WELLSMEMORIAL.COM ®
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Conrada Ramos Melendez
THURSDAY, DEC. 19
Wells MeMorial & event Center
PlanT CiTy Conrada Ramos Melendez, MAHJONG CLASS WellsMemorial.com 90, of Plant City, passed 813-752-1111 2 to 4 p.m. Every Thursday join away on Dec. 9, 2019. Bruton Memorial Library, 302 Funeral services were held Dec. McLendon St., for its Mahjong M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1 18, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at St. ClemClass. Whether you’re a firstent Catholic Church, 1104 North time player or a seasoned expert, Alexander Street, Plant City Florida there’s plenty of Mahjong fun at 33563. the library. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haught.care. ELIMINATING THE HOLIDAY
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5:30 p.m. Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., is hosting the Eliminating the HoliHAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM day Debt Hangover workshop. Holidays we’re dedicated to helping families create a are the time of year E our community Gerald unique Lamar Eakins friends and families share and meaningful memorial that that truly nate care since 1896. Gerald Lamar Eakins, celebrates the79, lifeof it Plant represents. special time together. The time professionals, spent usually means gifts to be City, entered into rest Dec. 1, e Guarantee > National Planon Transferability 2019. He was>born on Dec. 28, Helpline®purchased, meals to be eaten Travel Assistance The Compassion out, or meals served at home. 1939 in Kathleen. This can be expensive, and then Funeral services were held on after the holidays, the credit card Dec. 9, 2019. supporting Condolences the Plant City Strawberry Festival. statements start to arrive. This may be offered at workshop will focus on how to be www.wellsmemorial.com. better prepared for the holidays and manage how much money you spend! Presented by GTE Financial. Please register online. WELLSMEMORIAL.COM
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OF CHRISTMAS we’re dedicated to helping familiesTHE createLIGHTS a E our community 6 to 9 p.m. Experience the magic unique and meaningful memorial that truly nate care since 1896. ells MeMorial & event Center of Christmas in a brand new way Nancy Junecelebrates Thomas, Largo, the71, lifeof it represents. professionals, PlanT CiTy
feeding, bathing, diapering and safety risks. This class is held the fourth Thursday of every month. Participants may bring one guest to class and are asked to bring a notepad.10/27/15 Snacks will be provided. 10:42 AM Registration is free, but required. Call 1-855-269-4777 for more information.
BABY CHICK BOOK CLUB
6:30 p.m. Safe & Sound Hillsborough presents, Story Time with a Baby Chick Book Club. Come on out to the Bing House Museum, 205 S. Allen St., for the book club. The book being discussed is Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o. For more information call 813-7576760.
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the advent this holiday season 10:42 AM each10/27/15 night from Dec. 19-21. The event is free and open to the entire community. The Lights of Christmas is an outdoor walk-through light experience depicting the Christmas story shared by the candles of the advent wreath. It includes advent WELLSMEMORIAL.COM candles that measure more than feet tall along with lighted Anna Rosario Macias six scenes dedicated to helping families create a that bring each candle’s E our community ells MeMorial & we’re event Center Anna Rosario Macias, 40, of Plant unique and meaningful memorial meaning that truly to life. City Pointe will nate care since 1896. PlanT CiTy be joined by a number of area City, passed away on Dec. celebrates theMonday life it represents. professionals, 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com churches and businesses to host 9, 2019. Anna wasPlan bornTransferability Sept. 25, e Guarantee > National 1979 in Warwick, York. Helpline®the event. Travel Assistance > The New Compassion 10/27/15 10:42 AM Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at BREASTFEEDING AND www.wellsmemorial.com for the NEWBORN CARE CLASS supportingMacias the Plant City Strawberry Festival. family. 6 to 8 p.m. South Florida Baptist hospital is hosting a Breastfeeding and Newborn Care Class at ICU Conference Room, 2-South. This class covers several aspects of newborn care, such as breastWELLSMEMORIAL.COM 1948 in Buchanan, Michigan. Condolences may be offered at www.wellsmemorial.com for the Eakins family.
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CHRISTMAS SHOW WITH VALLEY’S END
6:33 to 8:33 p.m. Join Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., for an evening of worship and Christmas songs with Valley’s End. A love offering will be collected during the performance.
DATE NIGHT DANCE CLASSES
years old and under will be free. Admission includes hayride and kids activities. Get tickets at http://keelfarms.com/events/ holidays-on-the-farm/. The event will feature Santa, u-picks, hayrides, vendors, farm animals, poinsettia sales, bounce houses and a life-size snow globe.
PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE
6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Come on out to the Strawberry Square Dance Center for a night of social dancing. There is a 3,000 square foot floating wood floor to dance on. Social dancing includes slow dances, waltzes, line dances, cha-cha and rumbas, two-step and country slow, swing, free style and some Latin dances. A singles table will be set up. Admission is $6.
FRIDAY, DEC. 20
7:30 to 9 p.m. Come on out to the Stardust Ballroom for a perfect date night filled with dancing. Spend the evening holding your loved one and learning cool dance moves. These classes are recommended for all beginning dancers and act as a four-week program. Each week is $20 per couple and will cost $80 for the full four-week session. Register at the door. All you need to bring is some clean dancing shoes to slip on once you cross the door. Call Pamela at 218-256-1873 for more information. Classes are limited to 50 people.
SANTA IS COMING!
SATURDAY, DEC. 21
MONDAY, DEC. 23
SANTA SLED FEST
PLANT CITY DAYBREAK ROTARY CLUB 7 to 8 a.m. The Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club holds a meeting every Monday morning. Now the group will meet in the Community Meeting Room of the Plant City Family YMCA, 1507 YMCA Place. Guests are welcome to join them.
BLUEGRASS NIGHT WITH TRINITY RIVER BAND
6:33 to 8:33 p.m. Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., is hosting its monthly Bluegrass Night. This month features the national act Trinity River Band. Enjoy an evening of passionate and inspiring music. Admission is $15 and tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite or in-house. Visit trinityriverband.com for more information on the group.
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mas trees. College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving has offered to deliver the purchased trees to the homes of the winners of the auction on Dec. 21. A portion of the proceeds will go toward Operation Paying it Forward.
1 to 4 p.m. Parkesdale Farm Market, 3702 W. Baker St., is offering a holiday experience unlike any other. The public is invited to come on out and take a picture with Santa in the legendary strawberry throne. The event will also be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dec. 21.
DUPLICATE BRIDGE
1 p.m. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 302 Carey St., is now hosting a weekly Duplicate Bridge game, the most widely used variation of contract bridge in club and tournament play. Contact Walt Arnold at 813-7521602 for more information.
FESTIVAL OF TREES
6 to 8 p.m. Grace Manor at Hunters Creek, 765 W. Grant St., is hosting a silent auction of Christ-
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The annual Santa Sled Festival is held at Marie B. Ellis Park, 601 E. Laura St. Registered attendees will receive a toy, food, clothing and possibly a bicycle. The Christmas giveaway is hosted by the Des Aimes Social Club of Florida Inc. and Plant City Black Heritage and helps hundreds of families have a happy holiday.
HOLIDAYS ON THE FARM
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road, is bringing a winter wonderland to Plant City. Join them for Holidays on the Farm select Saturdays in November and December, including Dec. 7, Dec. 14 and Dec. 21. Admission is $5 per person and children ages 10
TRIVIA NIGHT — CHRISTMAS MOVIES
8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Come on out to Krazy Kup’s monthly trivia night. This month they’re testing your knowledge of Christmas movies. Grab your favorite sweet treat, one of their Holiday Drinks and compete for the title of Christmas Movie expert. The trivia night is free and open to anyone age six years old and up.
TUESDAY, DEC. 24 SHUFFLEBOARD CLUB
9 a.m. Come on out to the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St., each Tuesday to play Shuffleboard. You’ll be an expert in no time. The club is hosted by Anita Balch and she can be contacted at 808-722-5821 for more information.
ells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy
813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com 10/27/15 10:42 AM
WHEN SCHOOL’S OUT
UP N G I S AY!
TOD
FUN IS IN!
Bring your kids to the Plant City YMCA on most school holidays* for an exciting, enriching experience while you’re at work or out and about!
HOLIDAY DATES
PLANT CITY FAMILY YMCA 1507 YMCA Pl., Plant City | 813 757 6677 | tampaymca.org
*See website for available dates.
NOW AVAILABLE!
Universal Crossword Edited by David Steinberg December 19, 2019 PLANT CITY OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
I LOVE PLANT CITY
12/19
FORECAST THURSDAY, DEC. 19 High: 68 Low: 55 Chance of rain: 10%
FRIDAY, DEC. 20 High: 73 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 10%
27 Roll in a squad car? (first 1 + last 3) 32 Ones on deck 33 Crop up 34 Works on a comic book 35 Dallas NBAer 36 World capital where you may eat alpaca steak 40 Way to go 42 Croc’s relative 43 Friday’s companion (first 3 + last 1) 47 Holiday Inn alternative 48 Ethiopian princess in a Verdi opera 49 Terror- stricken (first 4 + last 1) 53 Bowl-shaped cooker
56 Champagne export 57 Used a potato gizmo 58 Anklebones 60 Shar-___ 61 Word with “fries” or “potatoes” 62 Praise to the skies 63 ICU attendants 64 Gardner with many plots 65 Rail terminal DOWN 1 Baby’s pop 2 Once more 3 (Not really!) 4 Giant Manning 5 Scottish girls 6 One of Pakistan’s official
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
High: 75 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 50%
SUNDAY, DEC. 22 High: 72 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 90%
STRAWBERRIES Shipping point: Central Florida $22.90-$26.90
languages 7 Coral structure 8 Start to “starter” 9 Asserts without proof 10 “___! (There It Is)” (1993 hit) 11 ___ Mae (student loan agency) 12 Expand, as a highway 15 Calm and quiet 22 “___ the season ...” 23 Mexican Mrs. 25 Modern warfare threats, briefly 27 Greek X 28 Vied for public office 29 “The Stranger” author Albert 30 Love poetry Muse 31 David who played Bond 36 Praise to the skies 37 Director’s cry, or a hint to this puzzle’s theme 38 “How now, brown cow?” response 39 “___ we clear?” 40 Equestrians 41 Abrupt way to stop or turn 42 Pulled a scam on 43 More risque 44 Muscat natives 45 Common setting for a joke 46 Half-___ (latte order) 47 Answered an invite 50 Mark on Harry Potter’s forehead 51 Tattle 52 Twiddling one’s thumbs 54 Nobel Peace Prize city 55 Eartha who portrayed Catwoman 59 Fir feller: Var.
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SUNRISE/SUNSET
Sunrise Sunset
Thursday, Dec. 19
7:14a
5:36p
Friday, Dec. 20
7:14a
5:36p
Saturday, Dec. 21
7:15a
5:37p
Sunday, Dec. 22
7:15a
5:37p
Monday, Dec. 23
7:16a
5:38p
Tuesday, Dec. 24
7:16a
5:39p
Wednesday, Dec. 25
7:17a
5:39p
MOON PHASES
SATURDAY, DEC. 21
Cover Letters by Ed Sessa
ACROSS 1 Often-wooden peg 6 ___ Major (Big Dipper’s constellation) 10 U-turn from ENE 13 Birthplace of St. Teresa 14 Lively dances 16 Yes, in Kyoto 17 Name that anagrams to “snide” 18 WNBA star Elena ___ Donne 19 Getting on in years 20 Biblical flood shelter 21 Baked fish dish (first 2 letters + last 3) 24 D-Day’s conflict, briefly 26 GPS maker
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Dec. 25 New
Dec. 30 First
Jan. 10 Full
Dec. 21 Last
RAINFALL Monday, Dec. 9
0.00
Tuesday, Dec. 10 0.00 Wednesday, Dec. 11
0.00
Thursday, Dec. 12 0.02 Friday, Dec. 13
0.02
Saturday, Dec. 14 0.22 Sunday, Dec. 15
0.00
YEAR TO DATE:
MONTH TO DATE:
2019 42.81 in.
2019 0.39 in.
2018 24.20 in.
2018 1.64 in.
WEATHER
47 Holiday Inn 12 Expand, as 39 “___ we ACROSS alternative a highway clear?” 1 Often48 Ethiopian 15 Calm and 40 Equestrians wooden peg princess in a quiet 41 Abrupt way 6 ___ Major Verdi opera 22 “___ the to stop (Big Dipper’s 49 Terrorseason ...”jkline@PlantCityObserver.com or turn Sendconstellation) your photo submissions to Associate Editor Justin Kline at stricken (first 23 Mexican Mrs. 42 Pulled a 10 U-turn or hashtag #iloveplantcity on4Instagram to feature. + last 1)for @igersplantcity 25 Modern scam on from ENE 53 Bowlwarfare 43 More risque 13 Birthplace of shaped threats, 44 Muscat St. Teresa cooker briefly natives 14 Lively dances 56 Champagne 27 Greek X 45 Common 16 Yes, in Kyoto export 28 Vied for setting for 17 Name that 57 Used a public office a joke anagrams to potato gizmo 29 “The 46 Half-___ “snide” 58 Anklebones Stranger” (latte order) 18 WNBA star 60 Shar-___ author 47 Answered Elena ___ 61 Word with Albert an invite Donne “fries” or 30 Love poetry 50 Mark on 19 Getting on “potatoes” Muse in years Harry Potter’s 31 David who 20 Biblical flood 62 Praise to forehead the skies played Bond shelter 51 Tattle 63 ICU 36 Praise to 21 Baked fish 52 Twiddling attendants the skies dish (first one’s 64 Gardner with 37 Director’s cry, 2 letters + thumbs many plots or a hint to last 3) 54 Nobel Peace 65 Rail terminal this puzzle’s 24 D-Day’s Prize city DOWN theme conflict, 55 Eartha who 1 Baby’s pop 38 “How now, briefly portrayed 2 Once more brown cow?” 26 GPS maker Catwoman 3 (Not really!) response 27 Roll in a 59 Fir feller: Var. 4 Giant squad car? Manning (first 1 + PREVIOUS PUZZLE ANSWER Penny Baker photo of girls her favorite feathered friend eating breakfast at Walden Scottish last 3) Miller shared5this LakeOnes and shared with of the #iloveplantcity hashtag. 32 on to Instagram 6 One deck Pakistan’s us on social media: @PCObserver on Instgram, official 33 Crop ON L Iup N E Follow @PlantObserver 34 Works on a languages on Twitter and Plant City Observer on Facebook. comic book 7 Coral 35 Dallas structure NBAer 8 Start to “starter” 36 World capital 9 Asserts where you without may eat proof alpaca steak 40 Way to go 10 “___! 42 Croc’s (There It Is)” (1993 hit) relative 43 Friday’s com- 11 ___ Mae panion (first 3 (student loan 12/18 © 2019 Andrews McMeel Universal + last 1) agency) www.upuzzles.com
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PLANT CITY OBSERVER
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PlantCityObserver.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019
Why go to an emergency center that’s connected to a hospital? What if you need the rest of the hospital? When it comes to your health, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Which is why during an emergency such as a stroke or heart attack, every second counts. We don’t want to risk our patients’ lives by transferring them to a different hospital for emergency surgery. Here, if you need to be rushed to surgery, it’s down the hall, not down the road. We also have access to cutting-edge equipment and some of the best doctors, nurses and specialists in the region are only a few feet away. If you need a pint of blood, no problem, we’re connected to a blood bank. Not to mention that our rehabilitation, orthopedic, oncology and maternity departments are only a wheelchair ride away. The best place to go during your emergency is a facility designed to handle any emergency. And that’s right here at BayCare’s South Florida Baptist Hospital.
OUR NETWORK:
BayCare Behavioral Health • BayCare HomeCare • BayCare Laboratories • BayCare Medical Group BayCare Outpatient Imaging • BayCare Surgery Centers • BayCare Urgent Care OUR HOSPITALS:
Bartow Regional Medical Center • BayCare Alliant Hospital • Mease Countryside Hospital • Mease Dunedin Hospital • Morton Plant Hospital Morton Plant North Bay Hospital • St. Anthony’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital St. Joseph’s Hospital-North • St. Joseph’s Hospital-South • South Florida Baptist Hospital • Winter Haven Hospital • Winter Haven Women’s Hospital BAYCARE.ORG 18-339297-0218