12.22.17 PCTO by Plant City Observer

PLANT CITY TIMES &

Observer

High school teams spread holiday cheer.

SEE PAGE 12.

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. VOLUME 5, NO. 25

FREE

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

East Hillsborough stays red Lawrence McClure wins District 58 house seat, keeping it in republican hands. SEE PAGE 3

A night of nativities

YOUR TOWN

Over 500 nativity scenes are on display at St. Clement. SEE PAGE 7 Courtesy photo

Unity in the Community donated $30,000 to Meals on Wheels.

Meals on Wheels receives holiday donation Unity in the Community presented a $30,000 check to Meals on Wheels on Dec. 11. Meals on Wheels feeds 45-50 families in need a day and relies solely on sponsors and donations. Families are fed on an income-based level. Some pay $20 or $10 a month and others eat for free based on the what they can afford. The group is in need of volunteer drivers and George Newman, president of Meals on Wheels, said everyone in the organization is a volunteer and the entire budget goes toward its services. The group started in 1990 and has run off of the support from the community. Newman said Unity in the Community is its biggest donor.

Breanne Williams

AAA provided free giveaways for the final Strawberry Classic Cruise-In of 2017.

Breanne Williams

This scene from Northern Africa features a female astrologer in the display.

State Attorney holds community event at Plant City’s Church on the Rock State Attorney Andrew Warren held his final community workshop of 2017 at Plant City’s Church on the Rock. DANIEL FIGUEROA IV STAFF WRITER

Rena Frazier gathered chairs in the sanctuary at Church on the Rock, placing them in an oblong circle. “We’re having a community conversation,” she said, “instead of a community workshop.” Frazier, chief of policy and communications for the State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial Circuit, was in Plant City Dec. 14 with State Attorney Andrew Warren for the last of the office’s quarterly community workshops. The SAO began holding commu-

nity workshops shortly after Warren took office in January. In Warren’s first year, his office held workshops across Hillsborough County, including stops in East Tampa, Wimauma, the University area and Plant City. Frazier said they’ve had up to 70 people in attendance at workshops and usually stream them live on the SAO Facebook page. The Plant City event had the lowest attendance with about 7 people, prompting the more intimate setting rather than the usual powerpoint presentation. Despite the low turnout, the SAO said the event was still a success. “We’re happy to talk to one person or a hundred people,” Frazier said. “It’s about opening up a dialogue with the community.” In addition to updates surrounding the alleged Seminole Heights killer Howell Emanuel Donaldson III, who is suspected of killing four SEE WARREN PAGE 3

AAA receives warm Plant City welcome The Plant City Chamber of Commerce partnered with AAA for the final Strawberry Classic Cruise-In of 2017. AAA offered free collectible event hats to the first 250 drivers registered at the event and passed out sling pack goodie bags to all attendees. There were also commemorative dashboard plaques for all cars and AAA offered a Royal Caribbean cruise giveaway.

SEASONED SATURDAY

Daniel Figueroa IV

State Attorney Andrew Warren stops by Plant City for a community engagement event.

Local church hosts vintage holiday event. SEE PAGE 8

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

“We’re happy to talk to one person or a hundred people. It’s about opening up a dialogue with the community.”

WEEK OF DECEMBER 22, 2017 BY THE NUMBERS

500

approximate number of nativity scenes present at the Nativities Around the World exhibit at St. Clement Catholic Church. SEE PAGE 7.

54.47%

of voters who cast their ballot for Lawrence McClure the winner of the District 58 special election. SEE PAGE 3.

approximate number of attendees at State Attorney Andrew Warren’s quarterly community workshop in Plant City. SEE PAGE 3

MEETINGS

Chamber of Commerce Closed through Christmas for the holidays.

Plant City Toastmasters Club #4051 7:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 28, the Community Room at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St.

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

Santa Sled Festival brings early Christmas to Plant City

Rena Frazier, chief of policy and communications for the State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial Circuit, READ MORE ON PAGE 3

SHINE ON W

alden Lake’s annual Christmas light contest has come to a close. A group of third party judges drove through the many neighborhoods to evaluate which entrance was the most traditional, whimsical and illuminated. After much deliberation the judges decided the grand prize would go to Wedgewood. In the traditional category, first place went to Clubhouse Wood, second place went to Silver Lake and third place Hampton Place. In the whimsical category, first place went to Westwood, second place went to Silverstone and third place went to the Paddocks. In the illumination categories, first place went to Charleston Woods, second place went to Eagle Green and third place went to Aston Woods.

The annual Santa Sled Festival provided hundreds of families with toys, bicycles, groceries, turkeys and clothing. The Dec. 16 event was hosted by Plant City Black Heritage and the Class of ’86 and was held at Marie B. Ellis Park. Those who wished to receive a gift from Santa registered in advance. Over 200 families were served and approximately 500 people attended. Sharon Moody, president of Plant City Black Heritage and coordinator of Santa Sled Festival, said the event went very well at its new location, which provided much more room for the festivities. “The highlight of the day was the parents were so thankful for all that the employees gave them,” Moody said. “Some of them cried, they were just so thankful because they didn’t know how they were going to get their kids gifts. They were so worried, but we make sure those kids get more than they ask for every year.” The event has steadily been growing for years and Moody said without their sponsors and volunteers, it wouldn’t be possible. C&S Grocery Warehouse adopted five families and bought them everything on their wish lists. Moody said the company brought a semi truck full of items. The Kiwanis Club gave over 300 toys to the other kids in attendance. Marshall Middle School Gentlemen’s Quest and Builder’s Club donated a bike and Taylor Rental donated tables for the event. Members of the Plant City High Key Club spent their day volunteering for the festival.

Holidays at the ‘Y Breanne Williams

— BREANNE WILLIAMS

WHAT'S THE BUZZ? A Plant City woman was killed after an alleged abduction. The Plant City Police Department said a Dec. 8 traffic fatality is now being investigated as a homicide.

Walden Lake’s Wedgewood won the grand prize.

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“What the hell is happening to our city.”

“Terri Hudson Collins… I told you I heard screaming. I’m positive it was her yelling.” — Christie Holland Wacaser

— Eleni McDaniel-Rebman

The Plant City Family YMCA is offering a fun and festive getaway for local youth over Christmas break. Registration for the Schools Out Holiday Camp at the ‘Y will cover both weeks of Christmas break. Call the welcome center at 813-757-6677 or sign up online at TampaYMCA.org. The winter holiday campers will enjoy crafts, games, field trips, swimming and other activities. The YMCA aims to provide character and confidence building programs that forge new relationships for all who step foot within its doors. Campers are encouraged to bring a packed lunch, snacks and a refillable water bottle. Campers need to be dressed to play all day.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

Auto swipers swamped Two Plant City men were arrested in Dover on Thursday, Dec. 14. TAMPA BAY TIMES STAFF WRITER

Two Plant City men who ran from deputies and shot a dog were captured after a brief pursuit Thursday, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. They ditched a stolen car, ran away on foot, crossed through several yards and then tried to hide in a swamp until they were captured by two deputies and their K-9 dogs, the Sheriff’s Office said. The driver, Thomas A. Nolasco, 21, and passenger Jonathan Gerardo Lozada, 19, were arrested without incident. The incident started near Milagro Court and Blackjack Road in Dover about 1 p.m. A patrol deputy spotted the stolen vehicle and was turning around to attempt a traffic stop, the Sheriff’s Office said. Instead, deputies said, the stolen vehicle sped away and ran a stop sign. Nolasco and Gerardo abandoned the vehicle near 3820 Lindsey St. and ran away, deputies said. They crossed through several back yards, including one with several dogs inside. The dogs “confronted” the two men, deputies said, and one of them shot a dog. The dog hid under the house while Nolasco and Gerardo kept running. They eventually hid in a nearby swamp. The pair were found by two deputies and K-9 dogs Bandit and Justice. Nolasco and Gerardo were arrested without incident, the Sheriff’s Office said. Both men face charges of grand theft of a motor vehicle and resisting an officer without violence. The wounded dog was an American Staffordshire terrier mix named Roscoe. He was taken to the Hillsborough Pet Resource Center for treatment. Roscoe was in stable condition Friday and was kept overnight for observation by the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.

Daniel Figueroa IV

Bruton Memorial Library serves as the polling place for the Florida House District 58 special election.

McClure victorious The GOP candidate secured the House District 58 seat with nearly 55% of the vote. STAFF WRITER

The McClure family — and conservative voters of east Hillsborough County — have a little more to be thankful for this holiday season. Following a brief four-month race to election day, Lawrence McClure secured his seat in the state House Tuesday, winning more than half of the vote in the District 58 special election. McClure, 30, a Republican, was the heavy favorite going into election day. District 58 has historically leaned to the right, despite having slightly more registered Democrats. According to the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections, District 58 has 91,603 registered voters, 34,072 of whom are Democrats and 31,614 of whom are Republicans. District 58 covers much of east Hillsborough, including Plant City, Dover, Thonotossassa, Temple Terrace and Seffner. State Representatives make an annual salary of $29,697. According to unofficial results from the Supervisor of Elections, Tuesday’s election had about 15% voter turnout with 13,964 ballots cast. McClure received nearly 55% of the vote with 7,592 votes. He beat out Democrat Jose Vazquez, who received more than 33%; Ahmad Hussam Saadaldin, who ran with no party affiliation and had almost 9% of the vote; and Libertarian Bryan Zemina who received about 3% of the vote. “You have the culmination of many months and many volunteers and supporters,” McClure said. “Then it comes down to a moment. It’s very

VOTER TURN OUT Lawrence McClure (REP)

54.5% 7,592 votes

Jose Vazquez (DEM) Bryan Zemina (LPF) Ahmad Hussam Saadaldin (NPA)

33.8% 4,715 votes

3.2% 433 votes

8.5% 1,188 votes Source:Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections

File photo

Lawrence McClure

humbling and rewarding to have the support of the folks of District 58 that elected me to represent them in the Florida House.” Gov. Rick Scott called for the special election in August, following the resignation of Dan Raulerson, R-Plant City. Raulerson, a Plant City-based CPA, announced his August resignation in July, citing complications from a back issue.

McClure and Plant City’s Yvonne Fry faced off in a brief, but fierce primary campaign which featured a number of attack mailers sent against Fry. McClure denied involvement in the mailers and the following general election campaign was much quieter. McClure dominated fundraising during the campaign, raising more than $200,000, while the next closest opponent, Saadaldin, raised about $20,000. McClure, who is a partner in an environmental consulting firm, said he’d be taking conservative values and a commitment to reducing government redundancies to Tallahassee when the 2018 session starts Jan. 9. But first, it’s home for the holidays. “First comes Christmas, reflecting on this blessing and taking that moment to soak it in,” McClure said. “Then it’ll be meeting with constituents, talking to folks and getting ready to prepare bills to take to Tallahassee. Much like the rest of campaign, there’s not much time to get ready.”

LOCATED AT 1205 S Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563 813 - 759 - 2800 NOTICE OF SALE In accordance with the provisions of State Law there being due and unpaid charges for which the undersigned is entitled to satisfy and owner and/or manager’s lien of goods hereinafter described and stored at: Rentlok Self Storage located at 1205 S Alexander St., Plant City, FL 33563, 813-759-2800. And due notice having been given, to the owner of said property and all parties know to claim an interest therein, and the time specified in such notice for payment of such having expired, the goods will be sold at public auction at the above stated locations to the highest bidder or otherwise disposed of on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2018 @ 9:30 AM. OR ANY DATE THERE IN AFTER. Ashley Benefield -Household

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DANIEL FIGUEROA IV

LEGAL NOTICE

Warren

PUBLIC AUCTION STORAGE SALE

In accordance with the provisions of the Florida Self Storage Act (sections 83.801 - 83.809), there being due and unpaid charges for which the undersigned is entitled to satisfy an owner and/or manager’s lien of the goods hereinafter described and stored at the Life Storage location listed below.

FROM PAGE 11

people in the Tampa neighborhood between Oct. 9 and Nov. 14, Warren updated the attendees on some of the programs he’s been working on since taking office. Warren said some of his main priorities include reducing recidivism and keeping non-violent offenders out of the system. “We don’t want to push people into the system,” Warren said. “We want to steer them from it.” In August, the SAO introduced a new Juvenile Arrest Avoidance Program. The program allows juvenile offenders to be issued citations for certain violations instead of being arrested or getting jail time. According to figures from the SAO, it costs $5,000 to prosecute a juvenile and $55,000 to incarcerate a juvenile for a year. On the other hand, the SAO said it would only cost taxpayers $400 to enroll a juvenile in a civil citation program. Additionally, steering children from the system, Warren said, reduces the chances of them becoming repeat offenders and keeps their records clean for future job prospects. “The system perpetuates criminal activity. Steering people away from it is better,” Warren said. “For kids, a lot of whom just don’t know any better and people who haven’t been given economic opportunities, we’re far better off addressing the underlying behavior. Putting them in jail could be part of it, but it’s not that simple.” Warren said his office is also working on a similar program for adult first-time offenders which is cur-

And, due notice having been given, to the owner of said property and all parties known to claim an interest therein, and the time specified in such notice for payment of such having expired, the goods will be sold at public auction at the below stated location(s) to the highest bidder or otherwise disposed of on Wednesday, 9:00 am, January 10, at 1005 South Alexander Street, Plant City, FL 33563, 813-759-9526. Daniel Figueroa IV

Warren bucked the standard PowerPoint presentation for a more intimate setting due to the modest turnout.

rently being developed. Warren also went over the Disarming Domestic Abusers program, which puts in place safeguards for domestic violence victims and law enforcement officers, he said. The program removes guns from domestic abusers and convicts and “defendants charged with domestic violence after a probable cause determination has been made.” Warren said the program is designed to make victims feel safer and encourage more reporting of domestic violence incidents. Frazier said Warren will continue to hold more workshops in 2018, improving them based on information the SAO has gathered from past attendees. Many of Warren’s initiatives follow on promises he made while campaigning, Plant City lawyer Ted Taylor said. He thought it was refreshing to see someone follow through after the voting was over. “Seeing you, hearing you talk about

JAAP EXEMPTIONS The following crimes are not covered under the Juvenile Arrest Avoidance Program n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Battery (Domestic Violence) Exhibition of a Weapon Violation of Injunction Exposure of Sexual Organ Lewd & Lascivious Act Disorderly Intoxication Possession of a Firearm Loitering & Prowling Driving Under the Influence Reckless Driving Assault on a Specified Official Racing Voyeurism

it, I can tell you really are about it,” Taylor said. “It’s not just lip service.”

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

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When he was a kid growing up in Pittsburgh and later, Orlando, Aaron Carricato had big dreams. One day, he was going to own and operate a sports bar. “My dad would take me to JB’s Sports Bar in Orlando to watch Steelers games,” Carricato, 39, said, recalling how he became fascinated with the establishment’s decor and sense of community. “They didn’t have DirectTV back then, so we couldn’t just watch the games at home. I remember the first time we went, I was in 10th grade, and I just loved the atmosphere. And it wasn’t even about the Steelers. There were all these people yelling and screaming about different games at the same time. I just thought it was so cool. I said, ‘Dad, this is what I want to do.’” Carricato graduated from Florida State University with a business degree, and worked for a time in a stable, well-paying office job. But his dream never faded. “I wanted to go after the sports bar thing,” he said. He was acquainted with Sean Mellody, the son of the late Jim Mellody, Beef O’Brady’s founder. At the time, Sean Mellody was managing a Beef’s restaurant in South Tampa, so Carricato went to him and asked to be considered for a management job. “He said, ‘I don’t have a manager job open right now. In fact, we’re so fully staffed that I don’t even have a cooking job — I don’t have anything, really,’” Carricato recalled. “I said, ‘Sean, I’m willing to do anything. It doesn’t matter what it is.’ So he says, ‘OK, you can wash dishes.’ So I did.” Carricato said he “busted his butt”

Mark Wemple.

Aaron Carricato, 39, co-owns and operates five Beef O’Brady’s locations, including this one in Plant City.

washing dishes, eventually transitioning to a cooking job. His hard work was noticed and rewarded when Sean Mellody asked him to fill in as restaurant manager. Jim Mellody also was keeping tabs on Carricato’s progress, and soon the erstwhile dishwasher and line cook had an offer to buy a 25% stake in a Beef’s franchise on Fourth Street in St. Petersburg. “I was extremely flattered, but I was 24 at the time and didn’t have the money for 1%, let alone 25%, of a restaurant,” Carricato said. “He said, ‘I’ll give you a loan for it if you promise to make this store profitable for us. You can pay me back over time. We’ll get it figured out.’ That was my entrance into being an owner of a Beef O’Brady’s.” Today, Carricato owns and operates five Beef O’Brady’s franchises along with his friend and business partner Seth Pickern, who, like Carricato, started out at the bottom of the Beef’s hierarchy. The duo’s model to make each Beef’s location a core part of the community it’s in has worked.

For example, the Plant City location, which they acquired in 2012, did just over $1 million in annual revenue five years ago. “Within a few years, we were up to $1.5 million, and this year we’ll probably hit $1.7 million,” Carricato said. In 2016, Carricato won the company’s Franchisee of the Year, and he and Pickern, 37, shared the Developer of the Year Award. Carricato said he used to think of himself as the Buffalo Bills of Beef O’Brady’s franchisees because he was nominated for the Franchisee of the Year award four times — and lost all four times. But unlike the Bills, he finally broke through and won. “I was really excited,” he said. “I’d been asking myself, ‘What the heck do I have to do?’” The awards, Carricato added, “mean [Seth and I] are both doing something right. It’s a testament to what we do together, and our staff. We have great staff — they’re always trying to improve.”

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK

hristmas in the Park moved to a new location in its 21st year, but it was still packed with the same holiday cheer. The Dec. 16 event was held at the Planteen Recreation Center because its regular home, the Martin Luther King Recreation Center, is undergoing renovations. More than 150 people went to the Planteen center to enjoy free food from event sponsors and family-friendly entertainment from the United Starz Step Team. Families that registered this year were able to get toys donated by Global Sports Alliance, bicycles, turkeys and non-perishable food items. Two hundred games and toys, 30 bicycles and 20 turkeys were given out at the event.

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Courtesy of Plant City Recreation and Parks Department

Top: Two hundred toys and games were given out at the event. Above: Event organizers gathered 30 bikes to give to kids at the event.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

We asked: What is your favorite holiday tradition?

“For us it was my mom always made Christmas cookies and we’d all sit around and decorate cookies. We’d eat a cookie and then we’d decorate one. So she had to make a ton of cookies so we’d have enough.”

“Eating. Come on. We do everything.”

“Stay home and watch TV.” — Jacob Showalter, 20

— Danny Boyd, 44

“Christmas because my birthday is Dec. 22. I get to celebrate both.” — Tuff Baxter, 7

“Going to church on Christmas Eve. It’s a tradition that we started with our children years ago. We go to the candlelight service at First United Methodist Church of Plant City.” — Marcie Brewster, 52

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

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DECEMBER 22, 2017

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Photos by Breanne Williams

One of the more unique pieces includes a Santa Claus holding baby Jesus.

A local church is providing Plant City with a holiday trip around the world with its Nativities Around the World event. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Rev. Henry Riffle donned in his nativity themed vest.

One woman who was undergoing treatment for breast cancer created a pink nativity scene, which she then gave to Riffle.

Above: The exhibit also has a children’s section full of more whimsical pieces. Right: Riffle said this sculpture ofJoseph holding baby Jesus is one of his favorites in the exhibit due to its rare nature.

For many, Christmas is summarized in one iconic scene. The manger that housed Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus has become a symbol of hope across the globe, spanning continents, cultures and generations. St. Clement Catholic Church is bringing works of art from around the world to Plant City. Its second annual Nativities Around the World event is showcasing approximately 500 nativity displays ranging from natural to man-made materials from every corner of the Earth. Rev. Henry Riffle decided 37 years ago to stop smoking, choosing to use the money he would have spent on cigarettes to fuel his other addiction: collecting unique nativity scenes. His first purchase, nearly four decades ago, was of a Precious Moments nativity scene. The match was lit and his passion still burns to this day. “I’ve been seriously collecting since 1980,” Riffle said. “Growing up we had a tradition of setting up a nativity scene in our own home. That’s where it all began for me.” Riffle, an avid traveler, spent the last few decades picking up exclusive nativity displays from countries across the globe. He has displays from Ecuador, South Africa, France, Aruba and more. Each scene represents not only the culture of the people who created the display, but also the underlying fascination with Christ’s birth found in each society. The scene from Ecuador is made of cookie dough. One from the U.S. is made entirely of paper mache. The Vietnam display is crafted out of mother of pearl. Riffle said each arrangement he picks up has to offer something special, something oneof-a-kind that makes it worth being put in the annual exhibit. Only part of the 500-plus piece collection was purchased by Riffle. Many of those included were gifted to him after his friends and congregation learned of his immense hobby. “What do you buy a priest if he doesn’t drink, if he doesn’t smoke and if he doesn’t gamble?” Riffle said. “He collects nativities, get him a nativity.” Next year, St. Clement’s hopes to include info cards for the displays so attendees can indulge in a selfguided tour. Each of the pieces has a story behind how they were obtained or made and Dan Alacorn, a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 8095, said it would enhance viewers’ experiences, adding a level of depth the collection. “We’re talking about combing all or several of our holiday type events into one large day so that the community can know about all that we do here,” Alacorn said. “We’ve got big plans and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s to come.” Riffle said nativities carry the theme of joy to the world. He said the universality of recognizing Christ’s coming is a tradition held across the

This nativity scene is carved inside of a walnut shell.

This signed nativity sculpture was gifted to Riffle by a priest on his death bed. He had worked with the Native Americans for 20 years.

globe, making the event a must see for people of all ages and cultures. Nativities Around the World is a free event, though guests are encouraged to leave contributions. All the contributions are sent to charities by the Knights of Columbus, like centers for the disabled and the Pregnancy Care Center in Plant City. Doors open after masses on weekends and special viewings can be arranged by contacting Carol Rodriguez at 813-727- 5214 or crodriguez@ stclementpc.org. Riffle said if viewers take their time, it should take approximately an hour to look at all of the items.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER P

Inside the church was a large nativity scene full of real hay and large statues. Photos by Breanne williams

The night came to a close with a final round of Christmas carols. Attendees joined in with Jingle Bells before slowly making their way back downtown toward the monthly car show.

lant City was granted a Victorian-themed holiday event during New Hope @ the Cornerstone’s Old Fashion Christmas festivity. Members of the church and the community dressed in their best pre-1900s costumes on Saturday to celebrate Christmas at the chapel. New Hope decorated the building from steeple to basement with a Gingerbread Forest, nativity scene, festive wreaths and more. The night was filled with hot chocolate, a chocolate fondue fountain, Victorian carolers, a symphony style string performance, a Christmas photo booth and a dashing horse and buggy ride. Carolers stood on the steps of the building and sang out Christmas favorites, while attendees sipped apple cider and occasionally joined in with the music. The monthly classic car show in downtown Plant City also took place, drawing many from the area to the festivities. — BREANNE WILLIAMS

Free horse and buggy rides were provided across the street by New Hope. The jaunty buggy carried guests through the nearby neighborhoods and back to the church.

Victorian carolers gathered on the steps of New Hope several times throughout the evening. The group sang beloved Christmas carols to those gathered on the sidewalk.

Members of New Hope @ the Cornerstone donned their best pre-1900s costumes for the old-fashioned event and were stationed throughout the building, welcoming newcomers and offering assistance.

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PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

SATURDAY, DEC. 23

KRISPY KREME FUNDRAISER 9 a.m. Veterans Supporting Veterans, Inc will be holding a fundraising event outside of Bealls, 2104 James L. Redman Parkway. The group is selling Krispy Kreme doughnuts to raise funds to for the organization, which helps get displaced veterans off the streets and reintegrated with society.

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BINGO NIGHT 7 p.m. The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 26 Plant City is hosting its weekly bingo night. Cards are sold starting at 6 p.m. and the game begins at 7 p.m. Each player must play a minimum of six regular game cards to participate in the special games. The Bingo session consists of 34 individual games, including five early bird games, 20 regular games and nine special games, which includes a jackpot game with a payout of $250 to a single winner.

SATURDAY, DEC. 23

ACOUSTIC CHRISTMAS 7 to 9 p.m. Valley’s End, a local band who uses storytelling and music to minister to others, will be hosting a Christmas concert at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. The group will celebrate the season during the special night and perform favorite Christmas songs. The event is free.

SUNDAY, DEC. 24

CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Faith Lighthouse Church, 3409 Paul Buchman Hwy, is holding a special candlelight service on Christmas Eve. CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT WORSHIP

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CHRISTMAS IN THE CITY 2 to 5 p.m. Christmas in the City “Snow Day Edition” is hosted by QCD, a new group in Plant City focus on mentoring and guiding the city’s youth. There will be games, food, gifts and prizes given away for free to those who attend. Preregistration is required and the prizes will be given away via drawings at the event. Christmas in the City is held at Snowden Park, 1000 Waller St.

6:30 p.m. Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 North Park Road, is holding a Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship service with a “Christmas Light” themed message at 10:30 p.m. The theme of the message will be “Home Alone.” For additional information or directions, please contact the church office at 813-752-4622.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 27

WINE & CANVAS AT THE WINERY 6 p.m. Keel & Curley Winery is holding its final Wine & Canvas event in December. The event features glass

painting and is $35. Tickets can be reserved at www.wineandcanvas. com or on the event’s Facebook page. Each attendee will paint two pieces of glass ranging from wine glasses and beer mugs to miscellaneous pieces. Food and drinks are available for purchase. Email infotampa@wineandcanvas.com for groups over five after everyone has registered. Dress for the weather, as the painting takes place on the deck outside under the party tent.

ONLINE For more events and ongoing events, visit

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FESTIVUS FOR THE REST OF US 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. at Brew Bus Brewing, 4101 N. Florida Ave., Tampa. All are encouraged to dress like their favorite Seinfeld characters. Prizes will be given for the best costumes. There will be an airing of grievances and feats of strength.

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MOSCOW BALLET’S GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER 7 p.m. To mark the 25th anniversary of the North American Tour, the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker is back on tour. Thursday’s show is at the RP Funding Center, 701 W. Lime Street, Lakeland. Tickets can be purchased at purchase.tickets.com or on the event’s Facebook page.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

Fred M. ‘Sonny’ Simpson

Fernetta Wathena Benefield, 94, of Plant City passed away Dec. 10. Born in Tilton, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Nettie Crum Benefield. The family will be having private services.

Fred M. “Sonny” Simpson, 86, of Dover, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 15.

DEC. 8

BAH HUMBUG 700 block of Sunset Road. Petit theft: Complainant stated unknown suspect(s) stole a light projector from her property. The projector was used as a Christmas decoration.

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William Jay Marcoe II, 43, of Plant City passed away Dec. 9. Jay is survived by his loving family. If desired, donations can be made to the Kingdom Hall or JW.org.

YOU PLAYED YOURSELF Clemons Road and Coronet Road. Warrant arrest: Officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with what was determined to be a stolen license plate. The driver was identified and had an outstanding warrant from Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office for fraud and theft. She was arrested and taken to jail.

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Bendetta ‘Bennie’ Brixius

Mary Alice Blocker, 78, of Plant City, born on July 2, 1939, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 16.

GRINCHED 600 block of West Baker Street. Theft: Complainant stated unknown suspect(s) stole mail packages from a home’s front porch on Nov. 27. A waiver of prosecution was signed. STEALING AND WHEELING 4440 block of Country Hills Boulevard. Armed robbery/grand theft auto: Complainants stated unknown suspect(s) robbed them at gunpoint and stole one complainant’s gold Lexus vehicle. The Lexus was recovered the next day by Lakeland Police Department.

DEC. 12

UNDER PRESSURE 2400 block of Mud Lake Road. Burglary: Complainant stated an unknown suspect broke into a shed and stole a DeWalt pressure washer. The washer was valued at $650. YOU ROCK 330 block of Park Spring Circle. Criminal mischief: Complainant stated unknown suspect(s) broke her apartment window with what might have been a rock and caused $200 in damage. A waiver of prosecution was signed.

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Bendetta "Bennie" Brixius, 68, of Plant City, born on Dec. 7, 1949 in Fort Smith, Arkansas, entered into eternal rest on December 14.

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OKEY DOKE REVOKED 2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Multiple charges: A male subject was caught returning stolen items to, as well as stealing additional items from, a retail store. He initially provided a false name but, upon discovering

WINDOW PAINS 1100 block of West Madison Street. Residential burglary: Complainant stated unknown suspect(s) entered a home through an unlocked rear window, then stole two 24-inch flat screen televisions and a PlayStation 4 gaming console.

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William Barfield, 87, passed away on Dec. 12. A native of Cairo, Georgia, he was the son of the late William and Goldie Proctor Barfield. Services will be held at a later date.

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COMPUTER BLUE(S) 2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Vehicle burglary: Complainant stated unknown suspect(s) entered his wife’s vehicle and stole an Apple MacBook. The burglary, which was believed to have happened on Dec. 6, occurred when the vehicle was parked in a retail store’s parking lot. The computer was valued at $1,500.

DEC. 10

Randall Tollett Sr. Randall Tollett Sr., 67, of Lakeland passed away on Dec. 9. A native of Crossville, Tennessee, he was the son of the late Sammy and Stella Threet Tollett. If so desired contributions can be made to The New Home Baptist Church general fund.

AT LEAST YOU TRIED, RIGHT? 900 block of West Baker Street. Attempted burglary: Complainant stated unknown suspect(s) tried to break into her home between 8:45 and 11:45 a.m. but were not able to gain entry.

his true identity, officers learned he had an outstanding warrant from Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office for petit theft. The subject was arrested and taken to jail.

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COPS CORNER

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DECEMBER 22, 2017

SPORTS Do you have a good sports scoop for us? Email Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

Under Armour flag football coming to P.C. The apparel company’s Under the Lights co-ed league begins play in January.

Youth sports events Area families are able to sign their children up for several sports and events coming soon.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The Plant City Dolphins are set to host a free football camp for local children age 5-12. The 2017 Christmas Football Camp will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. next Saturday, Dec. 30, at the Dolphins’ field at Mike Sansone Park, 1702 N. Park Road. Several Dolphins alumni who are now playing football at the high school and collegiate levels will lead campers through a series of skills, drills and other activities to make them greater on the gridiron. Campers are encouraged to wear cleats if they have them.

Next month, local youths who want to play football under the Friday night lights won’t have to wait until high school. Plant City is set to be the newest Florida location for Under Armour’s Under the Lights flag football program, which regional director Matt Raab said operates in 23 states and Canada. It will be the 22nd location in Florida and the 10th in the Tampa

Bay area. Raab said Plant City was chosen because it and its facilities — specifically Ellis-Methvin Park, where the games will be played — is exactly what Under the Lights looks for in a league host. He and commissioner Chad Warren had firsthand knowledge of Plant City’s field quality because their children have played lacrosse at the park. The city’s vibrant sports scene

Area prep sports teams serve community for holiday season Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest teams are helping kids and families this month. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Local sports teams are proving that even the smallest acts of holiday kindness can go a long way for someone. Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest student-athletes have spent much of December making a difference in the community, whether it’s through volunteer work or simply throwing a Christmas party for less fortunate kids and families. Strawberry Crest High School and Bailey Elementary School have long been friendly neighbors, sharing space on the same little corner of Gallagher Road in Dover. Crest’s baseball team continued the trend Thursday night when it hosted a Christmas party for some Bailey students and their families. “We started it last year and got plugged in with Bailey,” head coach Eric Beattie said. “There’s a couple of kids that don’t get a whole lot for Christmas the way most of my players experience Christmas.” This year, Beattie and the Chargers hosted a party at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in Seffner for six kids and their two families. They brought the families in to the decked-out banquet room for a night of food, fun and gifts. Players chipped in their own money to help make the holiday special for everyone there. Beattie said the annual Christmas party is the team’s way of wrapping up its early fundraising season, as it spends the fall fundraising for events like this one. Plant City’s boys and girls soccer teams went to Burney Elementary on Tuesday to hang out with students and give them candy as a follow-up to their Burney Bronco Bash appearance around Halloween. The boys also volunteered at the United Food Bank of Plant City this week, spending several hours at the facility after they finished taking exams. Boys assistant

Registration for the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department/Optimist Club Youth Soccer Program will begin Jan. 2, 2018. The program, entering its 42nd season, is open to youths age 4 through 18 (age determined as of June 1, 2018) between 11 boys, girls and co-ed age groups. Games are played at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2602 E. Cherry St., from late March through late May. Games for kids aged 4 through 11 are normally played on Saturdays and older kids play Tuesday nights. The $35 registration fee covers uniform and insurance costs and the form can be downloaded from ow.ly/ zRX030h9Hcg. Families can register in person at the Recreation and Parks Department administration office or by mail, which must be sent to the office at 1904 S. Park Road, Plant City, FL 33563. The registration period will end at 4:30 p.m. Feb. 7, 2018. For more information, call 813-659-4255. Tomlin Middle School will host the 45th Plant City Optimist Club Tri-Star Basketball Competition at 1 p.m. on Jan. 20, 2018. The shooting, passing and dribbling skills competition is free and open to all youths age 8 through 13, even if they do not compete in the city’s rec basketball program. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in each age and gender group and the youth rec league team with the most players attending in uniform will get a pizza party. More information is available at ow.ly/CyaL30h9HDR or by calling 813-659-4255.

Courtesy of Britney Ettling Photography

Durant athletes spent time getting to know children in the foster care system and hear their stories.

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

JUSTIN KLINE

An appreciation of referees

don’t think most of us would like working a job where we’re ignored at our best and crucified at our worst. Perhaps that’s why we’re not referees. These men and women are basically walking around playing fields or courts with a sign that reads “SCAPEGOAT” taped to their backs. If anything goes wrong during a game that doesn’t involve an injury on an obviously clean play, you already know who’s going to be the first to catch heat from fans and coaches. These people don’t always

SEE UNER ARMOUR PAGE 13

GIVING BACK:

Plant City Little League is also accepting registrations for its upcoming spring baseball, softball, T-ball and machine pitch seasons. League registration will be open through Jan. 18, 2018. In-person registrations will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Jan. 6 and 13, 2018, in the PCLL board room at Mike Sansone Park, 1702 N. Park Road. Online registration can be done any time at eteamz.com/PlantCityLL. Registration costs vary by league but go between $85 and $165 per child. Sibling discounts of $20 are available. Visit the PCLL website for more information.

There may not be a job in sports as thankless as that of the on-field official.

was icing on the cake, so to speak, and he added working with the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department has been a “very, very positive experience.” “We saw Plant City as a great community to offer our sports leagues in,” Raab said. Under Armour’s league is unique

deserve it — like us, they’re only human and they’re going to make mistakes. I’ve seen my fair share of people giving them the business, to borrow from (in)famous football referee Ron Cherry. One of my best friends from college was notorious in Florida Gulf Coast University intramural basketball circles for jawing at the refs when he didn’t like a call. I’ve seen coaches get ejected for losing their cool in the heat of the moment because they disagreed with calls. I lived in Buffalo in 1999, when my Sabres lost the Stanley Cup Finals on a goal that wasn’t legal until the following season and my Bills were sent into their current playoff drought by an illegal forward pass, and basically everyone in Western

New York was enraged. Last week, I went to see Spoto play Plant City in basketball and watched a ref eject a fan for loudly harassing him during the girls’ game. When people think you’re not calling the game fair and square, they can forget how to act. I don’t think that’s fair. There are plenty of refs out there who just want to do a good job, be fair to both sides and make sure things don’t get out of hand on the field. They don’t always intend to make mistakes, as some plays can happen in the blink of an eye and those of us watching a game from a different vantage point might be able to catch something none of the refs are positioned to see. To jump to conclusions and accuse a ref of

having it out for a team or player, especially below the professional level, is generally pretty ridiculous. I can assure you in most cases a grown adult does not hold a grudge against a kid they’ve never met. But there are certainly times when it’s fair to wonder what the heck a ref was thinking during a game. Looking back at the Spoto-Plant City girls basketball game, I believe that fan had every right to be upset with the way things played out on the court. Mackenzie Steele took a beating on the court and didn’t get many calls until later in the fourth quarter. In particular, she was knocked to the ground in one sequence and didn’t get a call, which also prompted coach Danny McIntyre to walk onto the court and question the lack of a whistle. That seemed to be the straw that broke the camel’s back as the fan began loudly questioning the ref’s commitment to fairness and staying bias-free — and I’m making huge understatements here, as she was going pretty hard — before play was

SEE GIVING PAGE 13

stopped as the ref requested her ejection. While I’m not big on harassment, I also wondered why the game was allowed to get that physical in the first place. Part of the reason the rules are supposed to be enforced is keeping players safe from things that can be controlled, such as hard fouls. Incidents like that are the reason a lot of people can be so quick to lash out at officials for even the smallest, most inconsequential calls. The good ones don’t deserve to be lumped in with the “TV Teddy” Valentines who do tend to make the games about themselves. I don’t think we thank them enough for what they do for the games they, like us, love.

Justin Kline is the Sports Editor at the Plant City Times & Observer. Email: jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

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Jiujitsu schools medal at Crest tourney

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lant City-area schools sent their grapplers to Grappling Industries Tampa on Dec. 9 and performed well. Carlson Gracie Plant City and Senshi Do Kai/Ares BJJ Plant City brought a total of 13 competitors to the event, held in Strawberry Crest High School’s gymnasium, and won 19 medals. Senshi Do Kai’s group was the biggest, consisting of 10 youth and one adult. Only one member of the group did not medal, but instructor Q. Wiggins said they all fought hard. “My kids always impress me,” Wiggins said. Carlson Gracie sent two, Nathan Pires de Camargo and Logan Ramirez, to the tournament and won three medals. “Those guys are animals,” instructor Sam Kimmel said. “I expected nothing less.”

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CARLSON GRACIE PLANT CITY n Nathan Pires de Camargo: Gold (gi, adult male, white belt) n Logan Ramirez: Gold, silver (gi and no gi, male 15-17, yellow belt)

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

Senshi Do Kai/Ares BJJ instructor Q. Wiggins coached his students in the tournament.

SENSHI DO KAI/ ARES BJJ PLANT CITY

Puzzle One Solution: “I could have done more with my career than I did ... no sour grapes; I mean, I don’t have any regrets.” – John Heard Puzzle Two Solution: “John Heard was the coolest cat in New York City ... he was defiant ... poetic ... he was ridiculously generous.” – Daniel Stern

n Madisyn Warren: Silver (gi, 6-7 years old, white belt, open, 46-55 lbs) n Dillon Warren: Silver (gi, 10-12 years old, grey belt, open, 76-85 lbs) n Adriana Hoyos: Silver (gi 6-7 years old and no gi 8-9 years old, grey belt, open, 46-55 lbs) n Antonio Guzman: Silver (2) (gi and no gi, 8-9 years old, grey belt, open, 46-55 lbs) n Isaac Lang: Gold (2) (gi and no gi, 8-9 years old, grey belt, open, 46-55 lbs) Scarlette Burkowske: Bronze (2) (gi and no gi, 8-9 years old, grey belt, open, 56-65 lbs) n Brock Snyder: Gold (2) (gi and no gi, 8-9 years old, grey belt, open, 66-75 lbs) n Mario Posada (gi and no gi, 10-12 years old, white belt, open, 76-85 lbs) n Eli Lang: Silver, bronze (gi and no gi, 10-12 years old, grey belt, open, 86-95 lbs) n Malakai Quinones: Bronze (gi and no gi, 13-14 years old, white belt, open, 116-125 lbs) n Dennis Hoyos: Gold, silver (gi and no gi, master male, blue belt, open, 185-210 lbs)

This week’s Sudoku answers

Courtesy of Mindy Lang

Above: Senshi Do Kai/ Ares BJJ sent 10 kids to the tournament. Courtesy of Carlson Gracie Plant City

Left: Logan Ramirez won two medals at Grappling Industries Tampa.

This week’s Crossword answers

Giving FROM PAGE 12

coach Trent Lott, who owns the Plant City branch of College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving, is heavily involved with the food bank through the Food Bank Fridays program he created and helped put the PCHS volunteer day together. “This is something new,” boys head coach Caleb Roberts said. “We’re at a point where we feel like we should give back more … (Lott) loves it, so we’re trying to get hooked up and make it a more regular thing, really. Try to get over there once a month.”

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for several reasons, Raab said. It’s exclusively co-ed play broken up into four divisions sorted by which grade the players are in, rather than by their current age. The league is also receptive to requests from parents to put players on teams with their friends or play for specific coaches, and teams can be sorted based on which schools players attend, which other sports programs they are involved in, where they live or anything that could put players in groups with youths near them. There are unique discounts on Under Armour apparel and gear available for those involved with the league through codes redeemable online at BSNsports.com, a factory-direct equipment company that also offers

move on to Under Armour’s inaugural national championship tournament in late June, which will be held at the University of South Florida. League play is tentatively scheduled to begin Jan. 12, though Raab said that may change based on registration numbers. The season runs through Feb. 23 and the divisional championship games will be held March 2. Under the Lights does not interfere with the Recreation and Parks Department’s annual Optimist Youth Flag Football program, which runs from September through November. Raab said Plant City’s reception to the league may influence future Under Armour program additions beyond flag football. For example, Plant City could be considered for the company’s Coast to Coast 3v3 basketball league if there is enough interest.

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FROM PAGE 12

custom team apparel. The league also provides Under Armour shirts and shorts for its players. Games are almost exclusively played on Friday nights. They can be moved to Saturdays or Sundays in some cases, but for that to happen, Raab said there would have to be an issue that would completely prevent the league from using fields on a Friday night. Players practice one hour before the start of their games and play four 10-minute quarters of 6-on-6 football with a four to six-second sack count. Team rosters consists of nine players so that as many youths get to play as possible. The divisions are Kindergarten through second grade, third through fourth grade, fifth through sixth grade and seventh through eighth grade. Divisional champions will get trophies and they, along with the runner-up teams, will be able to

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

The PCHS basketball programs are going to volunteer on Christmas Eve at the Christmas in the City event at Snowden Park, where the teams will serve food cooked by girls head coach Danny McIntyre to those who attend from 2 to 5 p.m. On Dec. 7, three Durant teams joined forces to give hundreds of people a Christmas party they won’t soon forget. The football, softball and baseball teams partnered with Cater Tampa, Ed Morse Cadillac and the Brandon Chamber of Commerce to host an event for kids and families in Camelot Foster Group’s network. Football offensive line coach Wesley Wyatt said the athletes each spent around $20 on gifts and com-

bined with the efforts of members of the community, bought enough gifts that every child at the event got one toy to unwrap that night and one to take home to open on Christmas. He added that the athletes and kids also got to dance together and spend time getting to know one another — an experience he said was humbling for the Cougars. “Once they started talking to the kids they were like, ‘Coach, I’m gonna cry,’” Wyatt said. “It was cool to see their facial expressions when they were interacting with these kids.”

2017

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

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David Jalomo Through Plant City High School’s first five boys soccer games, opponents have only been able to find the back of the net once. The young man guarding the net for four of those games was junior David Jalomo, who also plays club soccer for Tampa Dynamo FC. Know someone who deserves an Athlete of the Week feature? Email Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com by the Friday before the next issue.

Licensed Insured 813-643-7173 813-643-7173 ･Plumbing ･Leak•repair Repairs • Bonded ･Leak bing Repairs repair Licensed • Bonded • Bonded • Insured • Insured ･Re-pipesLicensed ･Water Softener Installation Installation ･Water pes Softener 813-643-7173 ･Water n stoppages ･Drain stoppages ･Water• Insured HeaterHeater Installation Installation Licensed • Bonded In your opinion, how are things going this season? ･New e Additions Construction (Residential) ･Home ･New Additions Construction (Residential) Great. We’re defending good, playing ･Plumbing ･Leak Repairs repair good, attacking. Not really letting ･Plumbing ･Plumbing ･Leak ･Leak Repairs Repairs repair repair (813) 643-7173 the other team keep the ball. We ･New odels Construction (Commercial) ･Re-pipes ･Water Softener Installation ･Remodels 813-643-7173 ･New Construction (Commercial) ･Re-pipes ･Re-pipes ･Water ･Water Softener Softener Installation Installation must be doing something right on defense. ･Plumbing ･Leak Repairs repair ･Water stoppages Heater Installation ･Drain ･Water ･Water stoppages stoppages Heater Installation Installation Licensed • Bonded • Heater Insured res･Drain &･Drain Accessories ･Fixtures & Accessories ･New ･Re-pipes ･Water Softener Installation What were your expectations ･Home ･Home ･New Additions Additions Construction Construction (Residential) (Residential) ･Home ･New Additions Construction (Residential) CFC037149

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What makes the defense work so well? Everybody works hard. Everybody defends as a team. Nobody’s left out. We all pressure the ball and work together.

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How long have you been with the team? Since my freshman year. How long have you been playing soccer? Since I was 8 years old. What do you love most about it? The excitement. The competitiveness. Everything. This is all fun. What other positions have you played? When I first started playing, I played striker. Then they brought me down to left back, then they kept me at keeper. What do you like about playing keeper? You can save the team. You can save the day. Save the game. A lot of excitement. It’s a pretty high-pressure job. How do you keep calm when you’re about to play a penalty kick, face a breakaway or anything where you’re being counted on most to get the stop? Just have a cool head. Just be calm, not overthink it. What’s the most fun thing about playing with this group of guys? We all get along together. We’re all friends. We’re like a family. We play together and have each other’s backs. What’s been your favorite moment as a Raider? Everything. Everything’s fun. What’s the funniest thing you’ve seen with this team? When Deonte (Oliver) scored his goal, he was really excited. He ran to the bench and yelled, ‘Finally, I got one!’ That was against Lennard this year. Is there a sport you’ve never tried but would if you could? Football sounds a bit fun but I don’t think I’ll be good at it. It sounds pretty fun.

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Who’s your favorite soccer player? Andres Iniesta.

“THEWORK OF A CARPENTER”

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PLANT CITY FARM AND FLEA MARKET

By Recording Artist Greg Mcdougal Will Be At Cork United Methodist Church On TH

Highway 39 North at Sam Allen Road—1 mi. N. of I-4 Exit 21

December 24 , 2017, At 10:30 Am (For Worship Service)

WEDNESDAY FLEA MARKET OVER 40 ACRES . . . MORE THAN 500 VENDORS

Greg McDougal and his family have been in full time music ministry since 2007. What began as a special cause and need in their lives, God has turned into a great desire for them to go and tell of His mercy and grace in the midst of it all.

OP EN

God led Greg to record a life changing and award winning CD called The Work of a Carpenter. Because of this project, so many lives across the country and around the world, have been touched by their story of faith, love and determination for the sake of their children.

PM 7A M T O 1

In 2007, Greg recorded a follow up project called ‘Try a Little Kindness’ that featured many special guests in duets with Greg including: Tommy Brandt, Mary James, Tammy Cochran, The Bellamy Brothers, and The Oak Ridge Boys. In 2009, Greg responded to God’s call to full time music ministry. In 2010, Greg was named The Inspirational Country Music Awards ‘Music Evangelist of the Year’ and and in 2012 and was named ICM ‘Musician of the Year’. As he speaks, sings, and plays his Martin guitar, you will hear of forgiveness, faith, family, and how God indeed redeems all things through Jesus Christ.

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A LOVE OFFERING will be taken after service.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

I LOVE PLANT CITY

FORECAST

Do you have a photo that speaks to the heart of Plant City? Send it to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, DEC. 22

High: 82 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 10%

Friday, Dec. 22

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SATURDAY, DEC. 23 High: 84 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 10%

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Sunrise Sunset

MOON PHASES

High: 85 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 10%

Jan. 17 New

Jan. 12 Last

Dec. 22 First

Jan. 1 Full

MONDAY, DEC. 25 High: 75 Low: 51 Chance of rain: 20%

STRAWBERRIES Shipping point: Orlando $16.90 to $18.90

Jock McGlathery enjoys walking around Plant City’s Historic Downtown district. He snapped a photo of the 1914 Plant City High School Community Building, one of the district’s most notable features. McGlathery wins this week’s I Love Plant City photo contest.

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1 Impact sound 4 Wise know-it-all 8 Some pears 13 1/6-inch printing units 18 Dashboard features 21 “Hurray!” relative 22 Blow one’s top 23 Seventh-inning song 25 In and of itself 26 Opera feature 27 Primed 28 Attack verbally 30 Morning moisture 31 Call a game 32 Make oneself at home

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2017 44.77 in.

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2016 38.65 in.

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33 The object’s 35 Nail-on-hosiery result 37 Secret hook-up 39 Catches lazy flies 42 Some greetings 46 Finders of superstars 52 Eucalyptus leaves lover 53 Beautiful and then some 55 Kind of jack? 57 Cold weather coat 58 Japanese stringed instruments (var.) 59 Paradise lost 62 Put one’s foot down 63 French river

64 Twosomes 65 Sushi bar fish 66 Round-mouthed cries 69 Leftover burning bit 70 Stop for good 71 A Kennedy 74 Crane relative 76 An NFL squad 77 Palm foodstuff 78 Old newspaper photo sections 81 Be a jackal 85 Like a “no” voter 86 First Super Bowl MVP 87 Windfalls and major boons

88 Reverses editorially 90 They make pancakes from anything 93 One who is not himself 95 Twist partner, to the Beatles 96 Injection of truth? 100 Unruly uprising 102 Feathered six-footer 103 Pool hall staple 105 Mali-to-Iran dir. 106 Sailor’s back 109 Sudden, sharp pain 113 Almost an A 115 Mr. Holland’s creation 116 Ring-tailed critter

DETAILING SERVICES FROM

3999

Mon. - Sat. 8am - 6pm Sunday 9am - 6pm

Good until 1/5/18

118 Cheerfulness 121 Poison 122 Old lyric poem 123 Short film, in projectionist-speak 124 Arm support 125 Scatter seed again 126 Exxon, pre-Exxon 127 Radical group of the ‘60s, for short 1 “The African Queen” star 2 Huge fan 3 Make changes 4 Goopy salon application 5 Where fetuses develop 6 Stopwatch button 7 Bear that’s up all night? 8 Short farewell 9 Pair on the lake 10 Vulnerable leg part 11 Stimulating plant 12 Bathday cakes? 13 Coach’s motivator 14 Intense wrath 15 Milky dairy product 16 Peas anagram 17 Mulligan, for one 19 Postgrad deg. 20 Ones who enjoy inflicting pain 24 Greek legends 29 Frontal attachment for “log” 32 Parties for guys only 34 ___ fly (runner advancer) 36 Spurred into action 38 Bacon unit 40 Epicureans 41 Violently breaks in two 43 Impressive gymnastics maneuver 44 Soothing ingredient 45 Cut, as two-by-fours 47 Stan with all the superheroes 48 Longest geologic time unit 49 Some Greek consonants 50 It gets under your collar 51 Balloon used as a probe 53 Fence attachment

OctopusCarWashFlorida.com 54 Breakfast eatery staples (var.) 56 Sentence VIP 58 Gettysburg-to-Baltimore dir. 59 Sodom’s sister city 60 Walk casually 61 Tae Bo was one 63 Locks down 66 Kin of net and gov 67 Word on one of two towels 68 Baseball card info 72 54-Down VIPs 73 Jane who shall remain nameless? 75 Swelling of the thyroid 77 Word with horse or common 78 File in a woodshop 79 Word with latch or catch 80 Big wine holder 81 One of the musical note sounds 82 Rig driver’s license 83 Chemistry suffix 84 Poem or bible unit 87 Reached by accumulating 89 Appropriate 91 One of the Stooges 92 Rhythmic Cuban dance 94 Your stadium seat sits in one 97 Holds off or back 98 Still on the shelves 99 Gentlemen (Abbr.) 101 Large feline 103 Perfect treatments 104 Needers of rehab 106 Does a thespian’s thing 107 April dupe 108 Uber alternative 110 Yep antonym 111 Syllables from baby 112 Tropical vegetable 114 Clair de ___ (moonlight) 115 “It takes ___ to know ...” 117 Roofing material, sometimes 119 Word with York or Delhi 120 “Gloria in excelsis ___”

256802

B U L C

XPRESS WASH

CELEBRITY CIPHER

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“R OUPMI DVLK IUBK WUXK ZRYD WF OVXKKX YDVB R IRI ... BU CUPX HXVTKC; R WKVB, R IUB’Y DVLK VBF XKHXKYC.” – NUDB DKVXI “EKFL FXZNU IZO VFX YKKPXOV YZV HL LXI AKNM YHVA ... FX IZO UXTHZLV ... DKXVHY ... FX IZO NHUHYGPKGOPA RXLXNKGO.” – UZLHXP OVXNL Puzzle Two Clue: D equals P

H S A W

DOWN

ACROSS

Thursday, Dec. 14

FREE Vacuum

1503 S. Collins Street 813-754-0777

0.00

d Unlimite

at only Starting month r $ 17.95 pe

CROSSWORD

Wednesday, Dec. 13

Puzzle One Clue: M equals L

Congratulations to this week’s I Love PC Winner. Stop in for your FREE Car Wash.

RAINFALL

SUDOKU

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

12-21-17

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2017

TEAMING UP TO END HUNGER More than 700,000 people go hungry each day in the Tampa Bay Area. Since 2014, Mosaic and the Tampa Bay Lightning have teamed up to fight hunger through the Goals for Food program. In four winning seasons, the program has helped alleviate hunger by delivering 2.3 million meals to families and seniors across Tampa Bay. For every home game goal scored by the Lightning, Mosaic donates $500, and for every “hat-trick,” $5,000 will be donated to Feeding Tampa Bay and regional food bank partners. The success of the Tampa Bay Lightning on the ice not only positively impacts the spirit of our community, but it also helps nourish those in need. Congratulations on this 25th Anniversary season!

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