12.23.20 PLCO by Plant City Observer

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VOLUME 6, NO. 126

. YO UR NEWS PAP ERNEW . COMMISH ROUNDUP: FLEET ON ITS WAY BREANNE WILLIAMS

The city was approved to purchase a variety of new vehicles last week at the city commission meeting.

STAFF WRITER

The Varrea development’s multiple public hearings were the star of the show at last week’s commission meeting. However, a few other important items also filled the packed agenda. Commissioners agreed to modify a work order with Hydro Solutions Inc. After the CIP Engineering Manager in the Utilities Department left the city decided to use the services of an outside consultant to carry out “critical duties. These duties include development plan review, attendance at preconstruction meetings, project management services, review

of Capital Improvement Project (CIP) information and project coordination.” On May 27 a work order was was executed with Hydro Solutions Consulting (HSC) in the amount of $49,392.00 to provide this staff augmentation support. On Nov. 9, a CIP Engineering Manager was hired so it was determined that the HSC staff would be used to “support a smooth transfer of information and to continue support in the development review and project coordination process.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Santa Sled

ONCE AGAIN CHANGES LIVES Not only were hundreds of families supplied with new gifts, clothes and food for Christmas, but one lucky family walked away with a new car. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

anta cruised into town early Saturday morning, spreading holiday cheer to hundreds at the annual Santa Sled Festival. This is the 18th year Plant City Black Heritage has hosted the Santa Sled Festival, but its venue has never looked better. For the first time, the event was held at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center and folks lined the front lawn, many bringing their own chairs and blankets, to settle in for the festive event. “It’s wonderful to have this here at the community center,” Sharon Moody, event coordinator, said. “We’ve got a lot of room

and this location means a lot to our community.” The event ensures local families have the ability to provide a festive Christmas by providing free gifts, clothes and food for those who attend. Moody said that this is one of her favorite events each year and that more than 400 people attended Saturday’s festival. “Organizations come together from all over the community to help us provide toys, bikes, clothes, groceries and other items for families so that these kids get to have something special for them under the tree on Christmas,” Moody said.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

NEWS BRIEFS

Cart-to-Curb waste collection system on its way to Plant City The City of Plant City announced last week its new automated waste collection system, Cart-to-Curb, will make its debut in town next summer. “Plant City’s waste collection vehicles need to be replaced, so it made sense for us to look at all the options, including automated ones,” City Manager Bill McDaniel said in a press release. “We found that the Cart-To-Curb automated system will increase efficiency, allow for quicker waste collection, provide a more uniform look throughout the city and will be cleaner, neater and more sanitary, which is especially important during the flu season and with COVID-19. We know residents will have questions and concerns, and we want to hear them and respond to them.” Collection vehicles with hydraulic arms pick up the carts, which will be provided to residents in city limits at no cost. Carts will come in three different sizes depending on residents’ individual needs. The plan is to roll out the program in the summers of 2021 and 2022. Before anything happens, however, the City of Plant City is looking for residents’ input. The city is offering groups and neighborhoods the opportunity to get a full presentation with a Q&A, and anyone interested in scheduling an appointment can do so by contacting the Plant City

Courtesy photos

Solid Waste Department at 813-7579208 between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday or by email at pcmedia@ plantcitygov.com. The city will also mail informational materials to residents and will have more information posted online at plantcitygov.com. “This rollout will be smoothest and most successful if we get input from as many people as possible,” McDaniel said. “I hope every organization, church group and civic and social club in the city will host a presentation to help us get the word out about the new automated system. We also can conduct virtual meetings.”

State Fair delayed to April Citing COVID-19 concerns, the Florida State Fair Authority Board of Directors announced Dec. 18 its decision to postpone the annual fair and the majority of activities until April 2021. While the Market Steer and Swine Show competitions are still scheduled to be held in February, the other competitions, entertainment, carnival and more are to be rescheduled. “With no guarantees in our current environment, moving the dates of the Florida State Fair to April 2021 provides a better opportunity to host the large event,” the board said in a press release. “Additional details surrounding the 2021 Fair and its full health and safety guidelines will be shared in the coming weeks.”

PCFR names Firefighter of the Year Plant City Fire Rescue announced Dec. 15 that firefighter/paramedic Justin Stokes won its Firefighter of the Year award for 2020. Stokes, a Field Training Officer, helps guide new paramedic trainees and the department described him as “eager to train others while continuing to grow himself” in an announcement posted to its Facebook page. “Justin is a highly respected member of the department, he always demonstrates the importance of having a positive attitude and encourages others,” PCFR said in its announcement. “Plant City Fire Rescue personnel have noticed Justin’s efforts and are honored to announce him as the recipient of this year’s Firefighter of the Year.”

HCSO Detention Class 2004 sworn in at festival grounds Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office welcomed 25 new detention deputies to its ranks on Dec. 18, swearing them in at the TECO Expo Hall at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds. “Each of these cadets has overcome adversity in their personal and professional lives,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a press release. “Despite COVID-19,

they pushed forward with their pursuit of a career as a detention deputy by joining the academy. I’m incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished. Their commitment and determination are exactly what we need in public servants of Hillsborough County.”

New Tax Collector office open Construction on the newest Hillsborough County Tax Collector office, located at 4706 Sydney Road, is complete and the office officially opened to the public on Monday. The 17,000-square foot building replaces the previous office, which was located in the Strawberry Plaza on James L. Redman Parkway, and cost more than $4 million to build. It is more energy-efficient with LED lighting, insulation and air conditioning units and has a much larger lobby. “The timing of this office opening is ideal provided we are mandated to ensure our customers and staff are able to safely maintain social distance while conducting business with us,” Tax Collector Doug Belden said in a press release. Owning this building instead of renting in the Strawberry Plaza, Belden’s office said in a press release, will save taxpayers about $300,000 per year. Visit hillstax. org for more information or to schedule an appointment.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

SANTA SLED FESTIVAL MAKES CHRISTMAS MERRIER FOR PLANT CITY RESIDENTS Hundreds of families got gifts, clothes and food for Christmas and an appearance by WWE’s Titus O’Neil led to one family getting a brand new car at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center on Dec. 19. FROM PAGE 1

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The sponsors and partners for the event were: City of Plant City, C&S Grocers, Star Distribution Systems, Kiwanis Club of Plant City, Winn-Dixie, Billy Herold, Spirit Soul and Body Home Care LLC, Plant City Housing Authority, Plant City Colts, Stingray Chevrolet, Thaddeus Bullard Foundation, Feeding Tampa Bay and Staples. Five families were also sponsored by employees at C&S Grocers. Those families received a special set of gifts and were highlighted at the start of the event. But the surprise didn’t stop there. Plant City Stingray Chevrolet owner Steve Hurley walked out of the community Center tailed by none other than WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil. They casually leaned against a pole under the overhang while Moody presented the gifts to the five sponsored families before she passed the mic over to Hurley. Hurley expressed his adoration of this event each year and said there was one more big surprise ahead. He introduced O’Neil, who shared his story of growing up with a single mother who struggled to make ends meet. He talked about his childhood, how he had been told he was going to end up in jail and that he had no future. He remembers firsthand what it was like to have to battle to put food on the table and keep the bills paid, so when he grew up he made it his mission to give back every chance he gets. It’s a promise he’s kept for the past several years. O’Neil, who came to fame in the squared circle, became a cherished name on the lips of families

across the region. With his assistance, lives have literally been changed as he continues to make it his mission to bless others in his community. For the past few years he has had a partnership with Hurley to seek out families that need a little extra help. Justine Fuerst, one of the five selected for the special partnership from C&S Grocer employees, heard her name called from the microphone. O’Neil and Hurley gestured to the loop at the end of the sidewalk where a red Chevrolet Malibu LT, adorned with a massive red bow, was parked. They explained that Wheels of Success, the Bullard Family Foundation (@bfftampa) and Stingray Chevrolet had come together to gift Fuerst a new car. She was in utter shock. Fuerst had worked in a job for seven years but was laid off due to COVID-19 in March. Her vehicle caught fire in September and she has been without transportation ever since. As her kids climbed through the back seat and checked out their new ride, Fuerst looked at the group and simply said, “I’m just really thankful right now, you don’t… I can’t even express how thankful I am.” After the presentation, Moody took the microphone back over and began handing out the gifts to the rest of those gathered. Many local youth also got to pedal away on their new bicycles. For some, it’s a wonderful gift they’ll cherish and play with for years to come. For others those bikes act as their primary mode of transportation to and from school.

It’s one of the most anticipated parts of Santa Sled Fest every year and the smiles on the children’s faces when their numbers were drawn for a bike are a sight the volunteers will cherish until next year when they start the process all over again. With COVID-19 playing such a detrimental role on the finances of families across the country Santa Sled Festival and other similar events are seeing a drastic increase in demand from families that need extra assistance. Long after the presentations were complete the kids lingered to talk to O’Neil, play with their friends and try to guess what toys were within the intricate wrapping paper. It was another successful year and inarguably set the bar high for Santa’s next trip to town. Top: Steve Hurley and Titus O’Neil with the car they gifted Saturday. (Photo courtesy of Stingray Chevrolet) Middle top: Key Club students volunteered with the event. Middle: Fuerst with her new car. Middle: Students handed out the bags of toys. Bottom Right: Key Club passed out clothes at the event. Bottom row center: A family received gifts from employees at C&S Grocers. Bottom Left: Civic leaders help make this event happen every year.

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

COPS CORNER

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This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigated damaged Christmas decorations,

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vandalized vending machines,

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stolen beauty products and more.

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240 block of West Alexander Street 100 block of South Granada Street Grand theft: Several suspects entered the Ulta Beauty store and Theft: This complainant stated someone stole outgoing mail from stole more than $7,000 worth of merchandise. her mailbox. Some of the stolen mail included checks she wrote to various entities. DECEMBER 12

Multiple charges: Officers conducted a traffic stop on a man seen driving the wrong way on Reynolds Street. They learned that while he did not have a driver’s license, he did have an outstanding warrant out of Hillsborough County for failing to appear for a narcotic case. He was arrested and taken to Orient Road Jail without incident.

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610 block of North Maryland Avenue Criminal mischief: Felton’s Supermarket reported that unknown suspect(s) vandalized several vending machines overnight in an attempt to steal the money they contained.

Multiple locations Criminal mischief: Complainants stated two homes on Reynolds Street had their Christmas decorations damaged. One of the homeowners declined to press charges and signed a waiver of prosecution.

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2100 block of Johnson Street Fraud: This complainant stated she learned from the IRS that someone filed her 2019 tax returns in her name.

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600 block of West Ball Street Attempted vehicle theft: This complainant stated an unknown suspect tried to steal her pickup truck. The door lock was punched and the would-be truck thief damaged the ignition in their attempt to start the engine.

1000 block of West Baker Street Vehicle burglary: This complainant stated an unknown suspect entered her vehicle in a parking lot and stole her wallet, Florida ID card and three gift cards valued together at $326. The complainant had left the vehicle unlocked in the parking lot.

Call (813) 704-6850

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

COMMISH ROUNDUP:

CITY TO GET NEW FLEET OF VEHICLES Among the agenda items in last week’s city commission meeting was approval to purchase a new fleet. FROM PAGE 1 combined cost for the 12 new pick-up trucks is $378,276. The Notice of Intent to Award was The work order needed to be issued on Nov. 11. altered to reflect that, so the Another large purchase was modification was that $45,000 is approved last Monday evening proposed for the additional staff when commissioners decided augmentation. This brings the to purchase a Knuckle Boom total CWO amount to $94,392, Trash Loader. The current unit and it is available in the Water/ — which is used for debris and Sewer Fund. trash pickup throughout the The city also agreed last week city — exceeded its life expecto purchase 12 new pickup trucks tancy and became quite costly from various vendors. The 12 to maintain. The fiscal year 2021 trucks are from seven different budget included the funds to get departments/divisions, including a new unit. Eight bids came in areas like Parks, Utilities Operaand the lowest responsive and tions and the Fire Department, responsible bid was submitted and the original trucks exceeded by Petersen Industries, Inc. for their life expectancy. The funds $126,343. to replace the items were includTechnically two other bids ed in the fiscal year 2021 budget. were lower, but the city said they Bids were gathered and the “failed to comply with bid specisuccessful bidders were: “Barfications by not meeting vehicle, tow Ford for five trucks at chassis and body requirements. $180,080.00, Beck Auto Sales Both bids were rejected for not Inc., for six trucks at $168,971.00 meeting specifications.” and Stingray Chevrolet LLC, for The spending spree didn’t stop one truck at $29,225.00.” All low there. The city was also approved bids were evaluated and met the to purchase four vehicles that

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

would be spread out among the Parks & Recreation, Utilities Maintenance and Utilities Operations departments and divisions. Much like the other vehicles, these had “exceeded their life expectancy” and there were funds in the current fiscal year’s budget to replace them. Bids received from Bartow Ford for these vehicles at $181,943 were evaluated and determined to meet the city’s specifications. The city will use money in the Fleet Replacement Fund to purchase a 3/4 ton 15 passenger van, a 1 1/2 ton mini dump truck and two 4 Dr. Crew Cab (one ton dump). Hillsborough County reached out to the City of Plant City to request the city approve an access easement on a city road that will lead to the new Tax Collector’s office. The city acquired property from Hillsborough County on the corner of Sydney Road and Turkey Creek Road on June 17 and now needs access to the new site. The county has

agreed to be responsible for the maintenance of the easement area. Another quick item on the agenda was a resolution to set a public hearing about the city vacating a portion of Newsome Road. Essentially there is a request for the city to “vacate approximately 1,113 feet of the 50 foot wide right of way that lies west of South Wilder Loop, within the North Park Isle planned development area.”

There have been no objections from reviewing agencies. The Planning Board voted 5-0 to forward the vacate request to the commissioners. The resolution was approved and the public hearing has been set for Jan. 11 during the city commission meeting, which will begin at 7:30 p.m.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

CLASSIC RIDES TAKE OVER DOWNTOWN

CADILLAC XT4 IS AN ENTERTAINING PREMIUM LUXURY COMPACT CROSSOVER XT4 Tires: P235/60R18 all season

The Plant City Strawberry Classic Cruise-In headed to downtown last weekend for a festive event. Courtesy of Nitish S. Rele

NITISH S. RELE

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Plant City took a trip back through time last weekend during the Plant City Strawberry Classic Cruise-In. Every month, these unique cars roll into town and draw substantial crowds to the area. Some car owners theme their rides for the upcoming holiday — like the man who had two elves working under his vehicle on Palmer Street or the Corvette that had snow piled in the window — while others stick to the traditional look. There were even special appearances by Lightning McQueen from Disney Pixar’s “Cars” and a company vehicle from “Jurassic Park.” Whether you’re interested in unique builds, eyebrow-raising renovations or simply want to spot something that immediately takes you back to memories of yesteryear, the Classic Cruise-In has a vehicle for you. It’s also a car lover’s social paradise. As people walk the streets looking at each individual car their owners proudly sit in lawn chairs beside or behind them, eager

to strike up a conversation with anyone who appears to be interested in their beloved vehicle. Check out the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s social media pages and calendar for future dates. The car show is held on the third Saturday of every month in the heart of history downtown from 3 to 6:30 p.m., rain or shine.

Close on the heels of the three-row luxury crossover XT6 some months ago came its smaller sibling, XT4, from Cadillac. Debuting in 2019, it sits on a car-like framework but with all the bells and whistles you would find among competitors such as the Audi Q3 or the Volvo XC40. The XT4 is packed with ample power — oodles of it — and luxury that only a Cadillac can offer. Under the hood resides a 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder engine that cranks out 237 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. The front-wheeldrive SUV is mated to a seamless ninespeed auto gearbox. A MacPherson strut front and a five-link independent rear work well to absorb unpleasant road bumps or curves. Steering response with the electric power rack-and-pinion is swift and accurate. Tow capacity is a satisfactory 3,500 pounds. And you can pick tour, sport and snow/ice drive modes. Bright Galvano accents on the front grille, satin-aluminum window moldings and chromed door handles lend the compact XT4 a classy appearance. Vertical L-shaped LED headlights and tail lamps further enhance the bold look. The crossover boasts an upscale and luxurious interior with exceptional fit and finish, gloss levels and materials. An eightinch color touchscreen in the center stack includes capactive controls, haptic feedback, gestures and voice recognition

Wheelbase: 109.4 inches Length: 181.1 inches Width: 83.5 inches Height: 64.1 inches Fuel capacity: 16.3 gallons City: 24 mpg Highway: 30 mpg Weight: 3,691 pounds Base price: $39,795 Price as tested: $48,935 Web site: www.cadillac.com

(yes, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available). Replacing the redundant knobs is a rotary dial controller with a new jog function. There is plenty of room – 48.9 cubic feet with rear seat folded and total passenger volume is a worthy 100.6 cubic feet. Standard goodies are dual auto a/c, eight-way power driver and six-way front-passenger heated seats, manual tilt/telescopic three-spoke steering wheel ambient lights, piano black accents on the new gear shifter, satin aluminum roof rails, seven-speaker Bose audio, remote start, 60/40 rear seat, hands-free lift gate and hands-on CUE (Cadillac User Experience). Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes, alerts for forward collision, rear-cross traffic, lane change and side blind zone, front/rear park assist, stability and traction control, rearview camera, auto emergency brakes, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard. Seating five people in comfort, the XT4 is tough to beat if you consider performance, substantial cargo capacity, impressive fuel economy and a reasonable price. Competitors in the luxury crossover segment should be wary of this highly capable and enjoyable ride. Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabay.com and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

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.

STEPPING UP

TO BAT Cale Bazley’s Eagle Scout project should help control the mosquito and insect population at Mike Sansone Park and more areas in Plant City.

Courtesy of Jessica Bazley

JUSTIN KLINE ELVIS: Meet the legend, the Frenchie, the one and only Elvis! It’s going to be hard to find a cooler pup than this little rockstar.

SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

When Cale Bazley was in middle school, he and classmates got to visit areas where bat houses stood tall and watch their residents dart around the skies at dusk in search of a meal. Seeing them fly in large groups was awe-inspiring enough to have stuck with him ever since — and inspire him this year. Before anyone even goes there: Bazley’s not a world-famous billionaire entrepreneur by day and you won’t find him fighting crime in a cape and cowl on the streets of Plant City by night. But he did just do the local bat population a solid favor for his Eagle Scout project by building a set of eight shelters for them, two of which were installed at Mike Sansone Park on Dec. 18. “I chose this project over others because it’s a different kind of idea… that most people wouldn’t exactly go for on the first thought,” Bazley, 17, said. “I find it to be quite fun because I got to work with my grandfather on building them, because he’s a carpenter. It was a good experience.” Bazley started bringing the idea to life in the beginning of the year with help from his friends and family. His grandfather, a carpenter, opened his workshop to Bazley and the two spent many hours there building eight bat houses in the summer. Now, in December, he finally got to see the project through with help from his father, who assisted with the installation of the two bat houses in the southwest and northeast corners of Mike Sansone Park.

The remaining six houses will be given out to family and friends. Bazley, a member of Troop 734, said having the finish line for his Eagle project in sight couldn’t be more refreshing. “Since joining Scouts, my goal was always to become Eagle,” he said. “It feels pretty great. I’ve been working on this since the beginning of the year and to see it come to an end, to see it finally finishing up, is very rewarding.” Bats are very good for pollinating plants and spreading seeds. But if you’re looking for an all-natural way to keep an insect population under control, you can’t beat a bat. According to the Florida Bat Conservancy, one bat can eat as many as 3,000 insects in one night and it’s estimated that the 22 million Mexican free-tailed bats that live in Bracken Cave in Texas chow down on 250 tons of insects every summer night. Plant City doesn’t and will likely never have a bat population quite that large, but Bazley’s project could help the existing population grow and thrive. “We are excited to be a part of Cale’s Eagle Scout project and also to be a part of such a significant effort to improve our community,” Parks and Recreation Department Director Jack Holland said. “The reduction of insects such as mosquitoes in our parks and surrounding areas is beneficial to everyone. We are proud of Cale’s commitment to excellence through his scouting efforts.”

Courtesy of the Plant City Parks and Recreation Department

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

DOCTOR’S NOTE:

TIPS FOR AN ALLERGY-FREE HOLIDAY Allergens can spoil your holiday celebrations, but there are ways you can stay healthy and happy. iStock

sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, a runny or stuffy nose and shortness of breath. Before bringing a tree into your home, shake off the pollen and rinse it off with a hose to help get rid of existing spores. Make sure to let the tree dry naturally and thoroughly to avoid further mold growth. Doing a little bit of Christmas tree cleanup can make your holiday season much more enjoyable. We all associate the holidays with a time to enjoy delicious meals and tasty treats with family and loved ones. Common food allergies are triggered by eggs, nuts, milk and shellfish, which can be found in traditional holiday foods such as cookies, drinks, sauces, dressings, pies and casseroles. If you or your children have allergies, it’s important to communicate what you can and cannot eat! Consider seating arrangements so that parents can keep an eye on their children with allergies to avoid a dangerous situation. Labeling unsafe foods and using separate utensils can help prevent cross-contamination. If you experience a tingling or itchy mouth, hives, trouble breathing, diarrhea or swelling of the lips, tongue, throat or face after eating, you may have a food allergy that should be brought to a doctor’s attention.

Allergies occur when your immune system meets something it does not like, but with worries over COVID-19, many people may struggle to decipher between allergy symptoms and symptoms of the coronavirus. Though some symptoms may seem similar, there are several differences. A runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough and fatigue are similar symptoms caused by allergies and the viral illness. However, itchy, runny, swollen or red eyes are not symptoms of the virus. The virus often begins with a gradual onset of a headache or other aches and pains, a fever, and the loss of sense of taste or smell. These symptoms would be unusual in someone with environmental allergies. COVID-19 is highly contagious, so if you are actively coughing or sneezing, or if you are experiencing any symptoms of the virus, please stay home. Stay safe and healthy while you enjoy the celebrations that lead us into the New Year. Florida E.N.T. & Allergy wish you and your family happy holidays and a happy New Year! The physicians of Florida E.N.T. & Allergy have served the Tampa Bay community for over 40 years. Their board certified physicians have completed extensive education

and clinical training as well as specialized training in their area(s) of expertise. From pediatric allergies to fitting hearing aids, their caring and experienced physicians specialize in ear, nose and throat care for the entire family using comprehensive, cutting-edge technologies. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please call (813) 879-8045 or visit Florida E.N.T. & Allergy online at www.FloridaENTandAllergy.com.

For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please call 813-879-8045 or visit Florida E.N.T. & Allergy online at www.FloridaENTandAllergy.com.

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With holiday music playing on the radio and a slight chill in the air, it’s easy to see that the holiday season is here. However, for many it’s not just the holiday season — it is also tissue season! Your Christmas tree could be the very source of your sniffling and sneezing. Artificial trees, decorations and lights can collect a significant amount of dust while in storage from year to year. Unpacking and moving your holiday decorations can stir everything up, further irritating your allergies. When dust is inhaled through the nose, it can result in respiratory issues like bouts of sneezing and distressed breathing. To get ahead on fighting next year’s holiday allergies, make sure to properly store your tree and decorations. Use sealed plastic containers over cardboard boxes, as cardboard can encourage the growth of mold, mildew and other allergens. So, before you deck your halls, make sure your ornaments and tree are dust-free! If you are thinking a real Christmas tree is less likely to provoke allergies, you might want to think again! Live trees can be equally irritating, carrying both pollen and mold into your home. They are known to carry microscopic mold spores that can worsen allergy and asthma symptoms, causing

DECEMBER 23, 2020

SPORTS

Wyatt Lawson was selected for the Hillsborough All-Star Game and signed with FIU last week. See Page 11

BING HOUSE MUSEUM BUILDING UP SPORTS HALL OF FAME Efforts by the historic Allen Street museum to recognize some of the greatest athletes in Plant City’s history, young and old alike, are picking up.

Quick Hits AREA FOOTBALL PLAYERS MAKE EAST-WEST GAME ROSTER Several Plant City-area high school football players made the cut for the Dec. 19 Hillsborough County East-West All-Star game, which was held at Sickles High School. All three local high schools had players on the East team’s roster that evening. Representing the Durant Cougars were defensive back Aashton Kirkland, running back Eli Reed and guard/defensive tackle Wyatt Lawson. Representing the Plant City Raiders were wide receiver Reagan Ealy, quarterback Nick Felice and linebacker Todd Miller. Representing the Strawberry Crest Chargers were linebacker Jake Craig and offensive lineman Jackson Bradford, who was also honored with the Vernon Kohrn Community Service Award. The West team had the upper hand during the game and left Sickles with a 35-20 victory.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

When Mario Williams signed his national letter of intent to play for the Oklahoma Sooners last week, it was a groundbreaking moment for Plant City High School history. No Raiders football player had ever reached that level of renown nationally, clocking in as one of the highest-ranked players in the country before his senior season began. Not long after the Sooners got a copy of his NLI, the Bing Rooming House Museum got a copy as well. Williams’ letter is exactly the kind of thing the museum staff and volunteers are looking for right now as it tackles its next big project: fleshing out its Sports Hall of Fame, located on the second floor of the Allen Street museum. “We’re just trying to get the community to take advantage of the Bing House and see history,” volunteer Calvin “Pee Wee” Callins said. “We have some of the best athletes that have ever played the game.” The Sports Hall of Fame has already collected quite a bit of memorabilia from donations and past events it’s hosted, like world boxing champion Chevelle Hallback’s “Conversation with a Champion” and this year’s celebration of Ginger Forté Day. There’s plenty more to come, too, like exhibits for the 1982 PCHS state cham-

FOCUS ON FITNESS:

STICKING TO THE PLAN TO STAY FIT

If you need some motivation to keep exercising, a little pre-planning can go a long way.

pion boys basketball team, athletes like Russell Evans who had record-breaking high school careers, those who came back to coach in Plant City after leaving it and football players like Gerold Dickens, Derrick Gainer and more who made it to the professional leagues. One thing in particular that the Bing House is putting a lot of energy into is memorializing the 1964 Marshall High School Dragons football team, a powerhouse of a squad that went undefeated and produced some of the finest athletes the city has ever seen. “I hear stories about Marshall High School and that undefeated football team,” Callins said. “If those guys would have had opportunities that players had now, we would have so many NFL stars.” The Marshall project is especially interesting to William Thomas Jr. Inspired by Major League Baseball’s recent decision to merge Negro Leagues statistics with its own, Thomas Jr. said he hopes to do something similar with the Dragons by merging

their stats together with those of Plant City High School and others of that period of time. Younger athletes like Williams and NCAA national champion T.J. Chase — “draftees, as Callins and Thomas Jr. call them — are very much eligible to make it into the Hall fo Fame even if they haven’t had long careers in their sports. “Our planned course is young and old… their accomplishments today will be history tomorrow,” Thomas Jr. said. Thomas Jr. said the Bing House is currently developing specific criteria by which future Hall of Fame nominees will be considered. When there’s a clearly defined list, he said, it will be posted online at the museum’s website (plantcitybinghouse. com). Anyone who wishes to nominate an athlete or team, or any athletes who have memorabilia they would like to donate, can get the process started by calling Thomas Jr. at 813-704-5800.

Are you struggling to maintain a healthy exercise habit? It’s pretty easy to start exercising or eating healthy, but sticking with it in the long term is a much more difficult task. You get busy. You’re too sore. Life happens. Sooner or later, the excuses start to pile up. You end up skipping a few days. You’ll skip a week — maybe even a few weeks — and you’re back at square one feeling defeated before you know it. It’s a vicious cycle. With a slight change of your mindset, some simple planning and a little motivation, you can finally start and keep a consistent workout schedule for good. Here are some tips on how to get started and maintain your new, consistent exercise routine. CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

If you need some motivation to keep exercising, a little pre-planning can go a long way. FROM PAGE 10

PUT IT ON THE CALENDAR Another way to make sure your workouts are ingrained in your schedule is to simply put them in it, just like you would for any other appointment. Schedule time in your calendar every week for your exercise. Make this time non-negotiable and expressly for you. If a potential conflict comes up, try saying something like “I’m sorry, but I have plans” or “Thanks for thinking of me! I’d love to do this another time.” If you must make a change, reschedule your workout time for another day that week and stick to it. Treat your exercise appointments like any other essential appointments you can’t miss and remember: you are your own boss. COMMIT FOR 30 DAYS Most of us have heard it takes anywhere from 21-30 days to build a habit that sticks. The key is to commit to the habit you want to create — such as working out four times a week — and give yourself a “30-day trial” of doing that habit consistently. Tell yourself that, if you want to, you can go back to your old habits at the end of your 30 days. At the end of those 30 days, make an assessment. Do you feel stronger? More confident? More energized? More fit? My guess is that you’ll decide you prefer the way you feel after working out consistently

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Know someone who deserves an Athlete of the Week feature? Email Justin Kline at JKline@plantcityobserver.com by the Friday before the next issue. Durant High School offensive and defensive lineman Wyatt Lawson has been a steady presence for the Cougars during his four seasons with the varsity team and all years of his hard work paid off this month. Not long after he learned he was selected for the Dec. 19 Hillsborough County East-West All-Star Game (along with teammates Aashton Kirkland and Eli Reed), Lawson signed with Florida International University last Wednesday and will join the Panthers’ o-line room in 2021.

Now that your senior season’s over and you can look back on everything, do you think you met the goals you set for yourself this year?

DON’T MAKE EXCUSES

For one, coach Davis, he’s pretty wellknown and has a lot of connections… coach Rodriguez, the o-line coach, we have a good connection. I always wanted to stay in Florida and play for a state football team. It’s only four hours away so the drive is easy. It’s a good fit, a nice campus and I feel like it’s a good place for me to go. And there’s good competition in Conference USA. I want to try to succeed as best as I can.

Just don’t make excuses. Are you traveling? You can still work out, even if all you have is a hotel room. Are you tired? Exercise will boost your energy, so try 10 minutes of movement and see if it gives you a little lift. You are the secret to accomplishing everything on your to-do list. Instead of finding reasons you can’t exercise, start finding reasons you can. Stop with the excuses and start with the exercise. You’ll thank yourself for it. No matter how you go about it, the only way to really, truly keep a consistent workout schedule and establish exercise as a lifelong habit is to start. Stop waiting — start doing. You are worth committing to. Keep challenging yourself to be good to you. And don’t quit. Never quit.

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When you first start working out on a regular basis, it’s never a good idea to commit to six days a week of hardcore workouts. Why? Because you’ll be sore, exhausted, burnt out and possibly even injured before you know it. A better tactic is to start small. Try out two to three exercise days a week for a few weeks to a few months. Only then, when you’ve stuck with the workouts for a while and feel like you’re motivated to do more, should you push yourself to increase ether frequency or intensity of your workouts. Baby steps now equal massive success in the long term.

Emergency TILE & GROUT Emergency

Mike Gartz is a personal trainer who owns I Hate My Trainer at 117 E. Reynolds St. Plant City.

Coming in through summer and stuff, I was going to have a season where I was faster and stronger than ever before. I trained pretty hard and my goal was to have a good senior year, make a lot of blocks, have the running backs score behind me. You’re getting ready to go to FIU soon. What made you decide to play college ball there?

Do you know what you want to major in at FIU? I was thinking either business management, marketing or something like that. What are you going to miss most about playing high school football? I’m gonna miss the days of going out there, hanging with the boys in and out of school. Especially the o-line guys. I always liked playing on Friday nights, I’ll always miss that. What was your favorite memory of playing for Durant these last four years? My freshman year when we beat Jesuit at the last second, fourth and goal.

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and will not want to return to how you were beforehand. If that’s the case, congratulations — you’ve just created a workout habit.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

STICKING TO THE PLAN TO STAY FIT One of the best ways to start any kind of habit is to create a routine around whatever it is you want to start doing. Working out is no different. For example, maybe you want to work out first thing in the morning before you go to work every weekday. You might create a routine where you get up, eat a small breakfast while listening to your favorite podcast, go work out, shower and then commute to work. The idea is to get your mind and body so used to including a workout in your morning (or whichever time of day you’d like to work out) routine that you no longer have to think about it. It should just come naturally to you.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

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If they scored, they’d have won. We stopped them. It was cool. Do you play any other sports? I did shot put last year until it got shut down because of COVID, and I played little league baseball and that’s about it. Which sport would you try now if you could? I would try baseball. I think if I could figure out how to hit the ball, I’d get pretty good at it. What’s the best advice you’ve gotten from your coaches at Durant? Coach Wyatt, he’s always helped me out and coached me hard. He’s the type of person where he’ll love you when you’re not practicing and he’ll get on your butt real quick when you are. But he and all the coaches were big on making sure we were good in school, that our grades were good and that we were becoming better people. You and your fellow seniors are about to leave and a new wave of Cougars will come in for the first time. As someone who’s been at this level for so long, what advice would you give them now? Put your head down and get after it. It’s hard work there and they’re gonna push you. Don’t give up. If you’re a good player, stay there and you’ll play. If you need the work to be able to start, they’ll get you there… get after it and work for your spot. It’ll come to you.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

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YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

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We asked Facebook: What is your new year’s resolution for 2021? “To appreciate the little things more and to spend more time with my parents.” — Karen Young

“Not to complain and judge every little thing! Smile!” — Donna Feaster Childs

“To continue to question why It takes years to build a fire station.” — Bruce C. Hildreth

“The world to be back to normal… miss all of my family and friends” — Annitta Reddick

“To be a better person” — Barbara Skaggs Ward “To stop lying to myself, about following New Year’s resolutions.” — Ashlee Harper “To jaywalk more often, instead of using crosswalks” — Stephen T. Galindo

iStock photo

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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born on October 13, 1944 in Wauchula, entered into eternal rest on December 14, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Jack Lamar Pettis, Jr., 61, of Plant City, born in Tampa on January 28, 1959, entered into eternal rest on December 11, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Margie Ruth Parker Margie Ruth Parker, 85, of Seffner, passed away on December 9, 2020. Services will be held privately. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Ray L. Ballard

Lou Anne Lawhorn-Osborne

Ray L. Ballard, 82, of Murphy, North Carolina, passed away Thursday, DeHOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM cember 17, 2020 at his home surroundLou Anne Lawhorn-Osborne, ed by family. He was born in Dade City Christopher ‘Chris’ 61, of Lithia, born in Copperhill, Judy McLeroy but was raised in Hillsborough County Tennessee on December 8, 1959, Shane Watkins on Ballard’s Corner. He had served in entered into eternal rest on DeChristopher ”Chris” Shane Judy McLeroy, 69, of Plant the U.S. Army. cember 17, 2020. Watkins, 49, of Plant City, born City, passed away on DecemRay began working as a printer while Expressions of condolence on November 28, 1971, entered ber 19, 2020. The family will re- in high school with D.C.T. work program. at HopewellFuneral.com. into eternal rest on December 15, ceive friends Wednesday, DeRay took pride in being a printer and 2020. cember 23, 2020 from 10:00 eventually became self-employed. Ray Expressions of condolence AM to 11:00 AM at Springhead was the source of nearly all printing at HopewellFuneral.com. Pentecostal Church of God, that took place in Plant City for many HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM 3301 Clemons Road, Plant years. He enjoyed vacationing in the City, FL. Funeral services will mountains with his family for many Ethel L. Hodge follow at 11:00 AM. years and eventually bought a home in Online condolences may Ethel L. Hodge, 95, of Plant City, Murphy in 1995. Locally, he had worked HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM be left for the family at www. born in Bonifay on October 7, for the Cherokee Scout and Wal-Mart haught.care. 1925, entered into eternal rest and volunteered at the Sparrow’s Nest on December 16, 2020. Charles ‘Larry’ at Murphy First Baptist Church. Expressions of condolence Ray was a member of Ranger Baptist ‘Chuck’ Paisley at HopewellFuneral.com. Church. He was a member of the Lions Charles “Larry” “Chuck” PaisClub in Plant City. He and his wife had HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM ley, 76, of Mt. Pleasant, Michiwelcomed several international exgan, born on February 2, 1944, change students into their home. Ray’s HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM entered into eternal rest on family meant everything to him and he December 19, 2020. spent his life putting them first. Expressions of condolence at Roger E. Poplin He was the son of the late Arthur HopewellFuneral.com. and Nina Webb Ballard. He was also Roger E. Poplin, 80, of Mulberry, preceded in death by a sister, Nina born in Jeffersonville, Ohio on June 13, 1940, entered into eternal rest on December 16, 2020. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com. HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

Mae Ballard, and two brothers, Arthur Wayne Ballard and Brigadier General Terry Otis Ballard. He was blessed with a marriage of 56 years to his loving wife, Sandra Boswell Ballard. In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Tina Marie Polk, of Murphy; a son, Ray Lamar Ballard, Jr., of Murphy; a brother, Jerry Lavone Ballard, of Dover; five grandchildren, Jack Polk, Robert Polk III, Ashlee Therrel and husband, Tommy, Shawna Ballard, and Noel “Trey” Martin III; seven great grandchildren, Jackson Polk, Aletrus Margandona, Raylee Polk, Baylee Ballard, Elijah Therrel, Annsleigh Martin, and Avery Therrel; and his beloved nieces and nephews. Memorial services were held December 22, 2020 at the Chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy with the Reverend Jimmy Tanner and Reverend Jimmy Hogsed officiating and military honors provided by Hayesville American Legion Post 532. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Oaklawn Cemetery in Plant City. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Ray Ballard to the Sparrow’s Nest, 517 Hiwassee Street, Murphy, North Carolina 28906. Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy in charge of all arrangements. An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhome.com.

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

FAMILY. COMMUNITY. COMPASSION. VALUE. FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1971 HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

OBITUARIES

Paul Q. Osborne, Sr. Jack Lamar Pettis, Jr. Paul Q. Osborne, Sr., 76, of Dover,

YOUR CALENDAR

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

BEST BET SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 THE LIGHT OF CHRISTMAS 6 to 10 p.m. Join First Baptist Church of Plant City, 3309 James L. Redman Parkway, this Christmas season for something new and unique. The Light of Christmas is a 30-minute drive-in light show featuring Christmas songs old and new, a story of hope, and thousands of programmed Christmas lights. Ongoing through Jan. 6.

ONGOING

205 Allen St., every Wednesday. Walk-ins welcomed or call 813704-5800 to set a specific time. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken at the door.

THE WONDERLAND OF LIGHTS & SANTA’S VILLAGE

The fifth annual Wonderland of Lights event opened Nov. 26 and will offer attendees a non-contact, drive-through experience every week until Dec. 27. The light show is the main attraction from Monday through Wednesday. From Thursday through Sunday, attendees can also hang out at Santa’s Village to see Santa Claus himself. Also on the schedule are several family-friendly acts like Nerdy Noah’s Comedy Show (Dec. 10-13) and the duo of Dennis Lee and Stephanie Ann (Dec. 24-27). Tickets are $15 per car Monday through Wednesday and $25 per car Thursday through Sunday. For more information about the event, visit thewonderlandoflights.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS

5 to 8 p.m. Slabach & Co. Farmers Market, 110 E. Keysville Road, is hosting its Winter Wonderland festivities. Visit the market on the following days for food, music and fun: Jan. 1-2 and Jan. 8-9.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

BATON TWIRLING CLASSES

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31

SEED LIBRARY OPEN AT PCC COMMUNITY GARDEN

FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY VETERANS

7:30 to 9 a.m. Join the Plant City Toastmasters for breakfast, laughs, and fun; there’s no better way to start your Thursday mornings. Bring a chair and a mask. The Toastmasters also offer Zoom meetings for those who can’t make it in person. Visit the Facebook page, facebook. com/PlantCityToastmasters/, for meeting locations and information.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26

FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY VETERANS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served any time in the military, retired or non-retention, and would like to review your benefits, please take advantage of free assistance at the Bing House Museum, 205 Allen St., every Wednesday. Walk-ins welcomed or call 813704-5800 to set a specific time. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken at the door.

Plant City Recreation presents Baton Twirling Classes at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St. Classes are held every Thursday. Beginner classes are from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. and Intermediate classes are from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Your first class will be free. If you have any questions or would like more information, contact Barbara Patrick at 813626-4554.

SLABACH & CO. WINTER WONDERLAND

Saturdays of every month. Call (813) 435-8111 for more information.

9 a.m. Choose or donate heirloom seeds at the Seed Library in the Plant City Commons Community Garden, 2001 E. Cherry St. This helps keep diversity in the local food system. The library is open on the second and fourth

PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS 7:30 to 9 a.m. Join the Plant City Toastmasters for breakfast, laughs, and fun; there’s no better way to start your Thursday mornings. Bring a chair and a mask. The Toastmasters also offer Zoom meetings for those who can’t make it in person. Visit the Facebook page, facebook. com/PlantCityToastmasters/, for meeting locations and information.

BATON TWIRLING CLASSES

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free. If you have any questions or would like more information, contact Barbara Patrick at 813626-4554.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 2 PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE

6 to 9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Square Dance Center, 4401 Promenade Blvd. Plant City Social Dance will have dances every Saturday night in the month of January at the Strawberry Square Dance Center. From 6 to 6:30 p.m., there will be ballroom music for ballroom dancers. The regular dance goes from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.The cost to dance is now $7 per person and attendance is limited to 50 people with reservations. Call DJ Ken Miller at 863-409-7714 to reserve your spot and visit djkenmiller.com to look at sample playlists and get more information.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3 FREE SQUARE DANCING LESSONS

2 to 3:30 p.m. at Strawberry Square Dance Center, 4401 Promenade Blvd. No experience required. Children age 8-18 are welcome if accompanied by a parent. Masks are required. Call 813-752-0491 for more information.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6 FREE ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY VETERANS

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing. If you’ve served

any time in the military, retired or non-retention, and would like to review your benefits, please take advantage of free assistance at the Bing House Museum, 205 Allen St., every Wednesday. Walk-ins welcomed or call 813704-5800 to set a specific time. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken at the door.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7 PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS 7:30 to 9 a.m. Join the Plant City Toastmasters for breakfast, laughs, and fun; there’s no better way to start your Thursday mornings. Bring a chair and a mask. The Toastmasters also offer Zoom meetings for those who can’t make it in person. Visit the Facebook page, facebook. com/PlantCityToastmasters/, for meeting locations and information.

BATON TWIRLING CLASSES

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FORECAST

Send your photo submissions to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@PlantCityObserver.com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 23

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Wednesday, Dec. 23

7:16a

5:38p

High: 77 Low: 59 Chance of rain: 5%

Thursday, Dec. 24

7:17a

5:39p

Friday, Dec. 25

7:17a

5:39p

Saturday, Dec. 26

7:18a

5:40p

THURSDAY, DEC. 24

Sunday, Dec. 27

7:18a

5:41p

Monday, Dec. 28

7:18a

5:41p

Tuesday, Dec. 29

7:19a

5:42p

High: 78 Low: 40 Chance of rain: 50%

MOON PHASES

FRIDAY, DEC. 25 High: 57 Low: 32 Chance of rain: 5%

SATURDAY, DEC. 26 High: 55 Low: 35 Chance of rain: 0%

STRAWBERRIES “Even on a cold December morning, you can always find someone to play with at Gilchrist Park,” Stephanie Hrenchir wrote.

ONLINE

Shipping point: Central Florida $12-$16.90

Across 1 __-been: washed-up celeb 4 Shared again, as a story 10 Samantha Bee’s network 13 Frequently found in poetry? 14 One with a hunger 15 Go bad 16 Citrus drink in a sea breeze cocktail 19 Philosopher Kierkegaard 20 Dawn goddess 21 Bridal veil trim 22 Packed in a slatted box 25 Like bath mats 27 Frivolous legal entanglement

29 Prez on a fiver 30 “Cream of” concoction 31 Lonely place, so they say 35 Former 37 Part of rpm 39 Actress Russo 40 Bury 43 Frontier lawman Wyatt 46 HBO rival, briefly 47 French luxury retailer since 1854 50 Gives a hand 53 Celebrity socialite 54 One who stirs the pot 55 Former flier 57 “Live” sign 59 2011 Dolly Parton single, and what homophonically

happens twice in 16-, 27and 47-Across 63 Night before 64 Most authentic 65 Generation __ 66 “Lust for Life” singer Lana __ Rey 67 How theater seating is arranged 68 Hurricane center Down 1 Keeps to oneself 2 Early form of Latin jazz 3 Like the most twinkly sky 4 Boxing official 5 Musician’s asset 6 “Can’t deny that”

7 They might bring you to tears 8 Releases from a cage 9 Basketball’s Erving, familiarly 10 Dry run 11 Italian lawn bowling game 12 Pricey 14 Gossipy sorts 17 Podded plants 18 Coat named for an Irish province 23 “Music for Airports” producer Brian 24 Bra spec 26 Med. research agency 27 Tough spot to self-trim hair 28 Olympic swords 32 Simulated launch site 33 Taking a vacation, Britstyle 34 Lowly worker 36 English “L’chaim!” 38 Sitar master Shankar 41 Jan. and Feb. 42 Words introducing a plot twist 44 Road groove 45 Hit the buffet in a major way, say 48 “Scout’s honor!” 49 Singer Turner 50 Played a part 51 Push roughly 52 Jason of “How I Met Your Mother” 56 Guthrie of folk 58 Like avocados ready for guacamole 60 Bi- plus one 61 Tree with elastic wood 62 WWII spy gp.

Jan. 12 New

Jan. 17 First

Dec. 29 Full

Jan. 8 Last

RAINFALL Monday, Dec. 14

0.00

Tuesday, Dec. 15 0.00 Wednesday, Dec. 16

0.24

Thursday, Dec. 17 0.00 Friday, Dec. 18

0.00

Saturday, Dec. 19 0.00 Sunday, Dec. 20

1.51

YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2020 61.13 in.

2020 2.30 in.

2019 41.91 in.

2019 2.08 in.

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

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