11.18.21 PLCO

VOLUME 6, NO. 171

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

The United Food Bank of Plant City’s annual fundraiser was back for another year on November 13 and it was business as usual. Attendees flocked to the grounds of the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum to enjoy a hot cup of soup prepared by various organizations, live music, participate in a live auction and take home handcrafted clay bowls made by students at Hillsborough County public schools.

Visitors also enjoyed chalk art by various artists and students on the way in and out of the event.

Before the event started, the roads were filled with runners participating in the Fork Ran Away with the Spoon 5K that started promptly at 7:00 AM. The proceeds from both these events go to the United Food Bank so area families can worry a bit less about going hungry.

FREE • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS

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Optimist Club Christmas tree lot For nearly 60 years, the Plant City Optimist Club has been helping the youth within the Plant City community, following its motto of “Friend of Youth.” Their work each year is primarily funded by Christmas tree sales at their annual Christmas tree lot.

Each year, the club sells over 900 Christmas trees at their lot and for several years, the club has offered a discount on the purchase of a tree in exchange for a donation of three or more cans or boxes of non-perishable food items. Partnering with the United Food Bank of Plant City, these commodities will be used to help local families during the holiday season. This year, the club is offering a $5 discount on any tree from the lot with the donation of three of three or more cans or boxes of non-perishable food.

“We do not know how many families we will be able to help, but we hope it will be a lot” said Jack Holland, two-time past president of the local Optimist Club and Director of the City of Plant City Parks & Recreation Department. “There are a number of families that struggle to keep their children involved in productive activities and off the streets. With this help, maybe these parents will be able to involve their children in one more program to help develop them into our strong leaders of the future.”

The club has just two fundraisers each year, the Christmas tree lot and their annual golf tournament that was most recently held in October. All proceeds from these two fundraisers go to support local youth programs such as $1,000 college scholarships and $500 tech school scholarships, cooking and feeding participants at the an-

nual city-sponsored Easter Egg Hunt, recognizing outstanding seniors at Plant City High School during a Youth Appreciation Banquet, hosting a Respect for Law banquet for middle school students, participating in the Citizen of the Year program, hosting a youth Oratorical Contest and providing Kid Comfort Packs for the Plant City Police Department.

The Optimist tree lot opens on Nov. 22 and they will sell trees at least through the second week of December.

The lot will be located at Maki Road and West Alexander Street, just outside Plant City High School, and is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Last year some larger tree sizes were difficult to obtain and this year proves to be a challenge as well, therefore the distributor has advised the club that larger trees may be in short demand again. If you will be searching for a larger tree size, it is encouraged that those customers come out early to purchase their Christmas tree at the lot this year.

For more information on the Plant City Optimist Club or its activities, email president@plantcityoptimistclub.org or visit www.plantcityoptimistclub.org.

2021 Plant City Christmas Parade Plant City’s hometown Christmas Parade, “Celebrate the Season – 2021”, will be held on Friday, Dec. 3 at 7 p.m.

Plant City’s Home-town Christmas Parade is a familyfriendly event and all are invited to come out and enjoy the fun. Bring your family, friends and neighbors for a great time together. The parade route will start at Collins

and Alsobrook Streets, travel north on Collins through downtown, turn right onto Reynolds Street and end at the courthouse. Spectators are asked to begin lining up on Collins, one block north of Alsobrook Street in order to view the parade in its entirety and to save space for the parade participants to line up properly.

This year’s Grand Marshals will be a tribute to our local Health Care Workers and 1st Responders. Representatives from South Florida Baptist Hospital, Suncoast Community Health Center, Plant City Fire Rescue, and the Plant City Police Department will be recognized and honored by riding on a float that will be provided by Plant City Christmas Parade, Inc., and its 2021 parade sponsors.

The parade is sure to include beautifully decorated floats, high energy marching bands, heart-warming church participation, civic and service groups, local business participation and of course you can expect a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus to help kick off the 2021 Christmas Season Celebration.

Parade sponsors are needed and sponsorships are available for as little as $150.00. All contributions are tax-deductible and will directly benefit the 2021 parade as money collected will either offset the cost of transporting local marching bands to the parade or by providing floats for local schools that do not have the budget for supplying one for their students. If interested in being a parade sponsor, contact Marsha Passmore at 813-2452244, Sharon Moody at 813-453-7134, or Dodie White at 813-927-0595.

A representative from each entrant is required to attend a MANDATORY safety meeting on Nov. 29 at 5:30 p.m. at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, 302 South Maryland Avenue, Plant City. No exceptions.

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PLANT CITY CONTINUES TO HONOR OUR SOLDIERS THIRD ANNUAL EVENT REMEMBERS U.S. FORCES

Florida State Senator Danny Burgess addresses an audience with a row of chairs before him to commemorate the 13 soldiers killed in Afghanistan on Aug. 26. He was the keynote speaker at the 3rd annual Plant City Honors our Veterans and Active Military event on Nov. 14.

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

The words ‘thank you’ were a recurring theme that couldn’t be emphasized enough toward the veterans who packed the Plant City TECO Expo Hall, on Sunday.

It was the 3rd annual Plant City Honors our Veterans and Active Military event, commemorating servicemen and servicewomen.

It was the first time it resumed since the yearly function was halted due to COVID-19.

Many came out in support for the program which was a cooperative effort between the Plant City Elks Lodge #1727, Plant City Main Street, and the City of Plant City.

As the ceremony began, everyone stood in reverence as Chaplain Daniel Middlebrooks led with the Pledge of Allegiance and as the national anthem was sung

by Alyssa Conte, a Five 5 Recording artist.

Judy Wise is a member of Elks Lodge #1727 and chairwoman for the Elks District Veterans’ Services. She offered a welcome and thanks to those in attendance, and sentimental words about the men and women in uniform.

“The Elks motto is ‘so long as there are veterans, the benevolent and protective order of the Elks will never forget them,’” she recited.

And those soldiers were far from forgotten as each aspect of the ceremony was in remembrance of them.

Florida State Senator Danny Burgess was the keynote speaker.

He is also the former executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Burgess currently serves as a U.S. Army

Reserve Major and is the grandson of an army veteran.

“This freedom isn’t a free gift, it’s something that every person that has served or worn a uniform has given to us,” he said to the audience. “A veteran, by definition, bleeds red, white and blue. You’re the backbone of the community.”

He noted that Florida is one of the top three states with the largest veteran population, and that the number in the Sunshine State continues to grow.

Burgess also mentioned the U.S. troops who answered the call of duty and served in Afghanistan for two decades.

“So few carry the weight for so many years,” he stated. “How does one sustain that?”

A tribute was given to the 13 U.S. soldiers who were killed by a suicide bomber in Afghanistan, on Aug. 26. In front of the stage were 13 chairs lined in a row.

Each seat showcased the name and portrait of those service members and military boots were placed on the floor, one pair for each chair.

As the names were called out, a rose was placed on each seat.

Those officers were: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza; Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee; Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover; Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss; Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez; Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum; Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola; Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui; Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo; Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez; Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz; Navy Hospital Corpsman Maxton W. Soviak; and

Retired Warrant Officer 2 Robert Johnson was given a Quilt of Valor, recognizing his service in the military.

Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan W. Page. Col. Richard Glorioso did the presentation of the POW/MIA table, in which each of its settings hold a symbolic meaning.

• The table is set for one for the prisoner who endures struggles alone.

• The table is round, showing the everlasting concern that the country has for its POWs and MIAs • The white cloth covering the table is for the purity of each soldier’s intentions • The single rose represents the blood that soldiers were willing to shed • The single rose also is for loved ones who have kept faith in a soldier’s safe return • The yellow ribbon tied around the vase is the constant prayers for a soldier’s safe return • The slice of lemon is a reminder of a soldier’s bitter fate • A pinch of salt are the tears shed for the missing • The lighted candle also reflects hope for a soldier’s return home • The Bible is the strength that is gained by having faith • The glass turned upside down is a soldier’s inability to share a toast with loved ones • The empty chair is a reminder of a soldier’s absence, yet never forgetting the sacrifice Plant City Mayor Rick Lott took to the stage to express his gratitude to U.S. servicemen and servicewomen.

“When you say ‘thank you’ with passion, with love, I don’t think there’s words any more stronger,” he said. “No one has served our country as well and as hard as you have.”

The Quilts of Valor Foundation also came out to recognize

four servicemen. Retired USAF Master Sgt. Tammy Arnold called out their names and gave a brief history of their service, as they came forward.

Those servicemen were: Petty Officer 3rd Class John Wolfe, Sgt. Carl Dekle, Warrant Officer 2 Robert Johnson, and Lt. Col. Jerry Goss.

Each gentleman was draped with their own quilt.

Mike Smith, past national president for the Elks and Plant City native, shared some history about the Elks Lodge.

“Our mission as Elks is to serve veterans, youth and get involved in our communities,” he said.

He went on to state that there are over 900,000 Elks members spread nationally among 2,000 Lodges.

During World War I, the Elks War Relief Commission was formed. This commission helped establish the first two bases in France.

And in 1918, the Elks built a 700-bed hospital in Boston, to care for wounded soldiers.

In the same year, the organization constructed a 72-room community house, in Sherman, Ohio, to accommodate family members who visited soldiers stationed there.

To this day, the Elks Lodge, including #1727, continues to support veterans.

Judy Wise was instrumental in having a POW/MIA flag raised at its new location – the Veterans’ Memorial Park in Plant City.

“It makes me feel so good,” said Wise. “The veterans are my heart, they always have been.”

Elks Lodge #1727 had issued a freedom grant to put the ceremony together and asked the community to contribute as well.

These empty chairs were set up to pay homage to the 13 soldiers who lost their lives in Afghanistan, on Aug. 26

On behalf of Chaplaincy Care Inc., Middlebrooks presented Wise with the Chaplaincy Care Coin of Excellence.

“We give this not only to our first responders and our military, but we also give it to those who have a deep love for our men and women, and we are so thankful for you and the Elks Club,” he said.

Chaplaincy Care Inc. is a non-profit organization whose mission is to assist first responders – including veterans.

Middlebrooks, a Plant City native, is the founder who conceptualized the idea.

It offers first responders counseling, tools to be efficient servants, and is often a safehaven for them.

However, the importance of educating the youth about who veterans are and their significance, is a constant mission.

The Durant High School Air Force JROTC gave the presentation of colors at the ceremony.

And Plant City’s Scout Pack 744 walked on the stage with U.S. military flags in hand, representing each branch.

“Our youth, when they see generation after generation of service for the betterment of everybody,” said Lott, “I think that installs those values into the next generation to do as the one before them.”

Burgess explained that when attending these kinds of events, he has his children interview an individual veteran, draw pictures and get to know them.

“I would like the kids to understand that freedom is not free,” said a teary-eyed Wise. “We’ve paid a tremendous price in blood and treasure.”

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COPS CORNER

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

PLANT CITY

Observer

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigate a stolen television, a fraudulent ferret transaction and an

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

unruly customer.

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com istock

NOV. 5

NOV. 6

TELEVISION DRAMA

THAT’S NOT FERRET

500 block of NW Drane St. Residential burglary: Officers met with the victim who advised them that an unknown suspect forced entry to their residence through the front door and removed a 65” Sony television without permission, valued at $795.27.

3500 block of Trapnell Grove Lp. Fraud: An officer met with the victim who stated that she had attempted to purchase a ferret for $150 via Facebook Marketplace but never received the ferret.

SECURE THE BAG

500 block of N. Woodrow Wilson St. Business burglary: Officers met with an individual who stated that on Nov. 6, a chain link fence on the property at the listed location was cut and a pressure washer and drill were subsequently stolen.

2600 block of James L Redman Pkwy Petit theft: Officers responded to the listed location and met with the victim who then alerted them that her purse had been stolen.

TOOL TIME

CLOSING TIME 1700 block of S. Alexander St. Trespass arrest: An officer met with the manager of a busi-

Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com Staff Writer / Brian Fernandes bfernandes@plantcityobserver.com

ness at the listed location who advised them that he was in a verbal argument with a customer after the customer refused to leave the bar after closing.

The customer was arrested and later transported to Orient Road Jail.

Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

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NOV. 7

Call (813) 704-6850

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SHOPPING CAR-T

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2700 block of Thonotosassa Rd. Vehicle burglary: Officers responded to the business at the listed location and met with the victim who reported that his vehicle had been burglarized. A pistol, 100 rounds of ammunition, a pair of sunglasses and $50 in cash were missing.

CONTACT US

The Plant City Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The Plant City Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100B. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

WINDOW PAINS 1100 block of D. Dr. King Blvd Criminal mischief: Officers made contact with the victim who stated that the windows to her residence were busted out.

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We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements.

To contact us, send your information via: Email: Sarah Holt, SHolt@ PlantCityObserver.com.

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NEW ARTWORK SHOWS PLANT CITY HISTORY A RECENTLY COMPLETED TOWN MURAL IS NOW ON DISPLAY

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Historic Downtown Plant City has now become even more aesthetically pleasing to the eye with the incorporation of its new mural.

The colorful artwork showcases the town’s history with pictures of prominent people and locations.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Tuesday to officially induct the mural located at the Unity in the Community Park.

The artwork, which was created between August and October of this year, is on the side wall of the Whistle Stop Café on Collins Street “It is a great day in Plant City and I’m so proud of this mural,” said Plant City ViceMayor Michael Sparkman.

He was one of the city officials who stood alongside the town’s citizens.

From one end to the other, the new mural details Plant City down its timeline.

The left end shows: Henry B. Plant, the city’s namesake. He played a major role in constructing railroads throughout Florida, especially into Plant City.

Lee Candis, the first African-American police officer in Plant City. He was in the force from 1958 to 1985, leaving as a police

sergeant. He was also a concrete installation contractor and was known in town as the “Candy Man.” The Historic 1917 American LaFrance fire engine which not only served the town in times of emergencies, but now is used in special events such as parades. It is part of the city vehicle inventory and is displayed at Fire Station #3.

McRory’s Department Store is in plain view, leading to the Hillsboro Bank, and further back is the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds. The rendering of the scene is based on a mid-20th Century photo.

It also shows the Florida Strawberry Festival midway and its concert stage and grandstands. Founded in the 1930s, the Strawberry Festival draws in over half-amillion visitors from around the world.

A Corvette represents the annual raffle conducted by the Unity in the Community charity. The raffle has raised funds, since 2012, to support Unity in the Community.

Stingray Chevrolet donates a car every year to support the Unity in the Community projects.

Center: There is a background glimpse of City Hall also known as the Nettie Berry Draughon Municipal Building and the American flag.

In front of the building are workers in a field with rows of strawberries.

Also in the field is the late Sarah Lofstrom, the daughter of Jerry and Marti Lofstrom.

Then there’s the Strawberry Water Tank with the 1914 High School just in front, and the Bing House in front of the school.

The State Theater is shown right behind the Historic Union Depot and a mid-20th Century locomotive.

The right end: A painting of Hillsborough County Commissioner Elijah Lutrell Bing is presented in honor of him as a prominent AfricanAmerican official in the county.

Then there’s the First Methodist Church’s steeple and cross which is still present in the downtown area.

Also shown are life-sized paintings of Plant City’s longest serving mayors which include: Michael S. Sparkman. For almost 30 years, Sparkman has served as city commissioner, mayor, and vice-mayor.

Rick Lott who has dedicated himself as a city commissioner and mayor for almost 20 years.

Sadye Gibbs Martin was the first AfricanAmerican, and woman, to become a Plant City mayor. She was a city commissioner for 15 years, the mayor for seven terms and vice-mayor for four terms.

Alongside the mayors is Bill McDan-

iel who was the Plant City chief of police before becoming the city manager.

And then there’s the representation of the eagle statue that is the center piece of the Plant City Veterans’ Monument Park.

Also present at the event was the mural artist Keith Goodson, who said he’s done approximately 200 murals in his career.

“Back in August, I got a call from the Whistle Stop owner, which is Jerry Lofstrom,” recalled Goodson. “He called me and my wife and said, ‘can you come over and talk to us about doing a mural on the side of our building?’”

He presented a rendering of what Lofstrom envisioned and began working.

It was a project that took two and a half months to complete.

Plant City City Commissioner Mary Mathis is one of many people who has a sentimental connection to the mural.

Former Mayor Gibbs was her first-grade teacher at Lincoln Elementary Magnet School.

“It is an awesome feeling, and what I love about this - it truly is telling the story of Plant City,” said Mathis. “I’m glad to see so many being honored and recognized in this mural, for all of their hard work here in Plant City.”

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

HELPING TO STEER WHEELS DOWN THE PATH OF SUCCESS

BIKES FOR CHRIST HELPS TO PROVIDE FOR THOSE WITHOUT TRANSPORTATION BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

When Pat Simmons dedicated his life to doing missionary work with his church, he had no idea that another lane would be opened for him to help others with a specific need – transportation.

He is the founder of the non-profit organization Bikes For Christ, which has been operating since 2016.

Its purpose is to collect bicycles, refurbish them if necessary, and give them away to those in need of one.

Prior to starting Bikes For Christ, Simmons was already active in doing charitable work with his church – First Baptist Dover.

In 2015, the church took a mission trip to Nicaragua, where he said he witnessed a lack of resources and poverty at its lowest. That experience compelled Simmons to further his missionary work, and he joined First Baptist Dover in offering services at Amazing Love Ministries, in Ybor City. The church would lend a hand to provide food for the disadvantaged.

The Dover resident enjoyed the connection with those he was serving, so he returned more frequently. And then one day, he came up with an idea on how to use bicycles to further the gospel.

“The lightbulb finally goes off above my head and says, ‘you can help these people with transportation,’’’ recalled Simmons. “So I was finally able to find something that had a purpose to combine my love of cycling with.”

He initially was a runner in high school but couldn’t continue due to a knee injury. However, cycling eventually became the substitute that he learned to have a passion for.

He started using Facebook as a platform to get the word out about Bikes For Christ and posting ads for donations.

Also, he began reaching out to numerous organizations throughout the Tampa Bay area to find those in need of a bike.

Simmons has now partnered with over 60 organizations to help those in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk and Pasco counties.

And it has proven successful, providing bikes of different sizes, colors, and even ones with training wheels.

Along with a bike are lights, a booklet of the gospel of John, a backpack, a helmet and a lock if available.

“Last year our grand total that we put out was over 340,” he noted. “Over a 100 of those went to veterans that were trying to get back on their feet.”

The organization has sought and provided disadvantaged students at Bailey Elementary School with bikes.

And 80 bikes were sent up to Panama City during the aftermath of Hurricane Michael in 2018.

Bikes For Christ has also expanded its outreach internationally to countries such as Liberia, Haiti, and Guatemala.

Not only have they become conveniences for the locals, but for ministers who can now travel at a faster pace when doing missionary work around town.

To get the word out and inspire others to join the cause, the non-profit posts pictures of recipients and their testimonies on social media and its official website.

Simmons explained that last year there was a decrease in the number of bikes being donated due to COVID-19. People were staying home for safety reasons and riding their bikes. And bike shelves at stores were being cleared off for those who didn’t already own one.

“Now you fast-forward over a year later, bikes are finally coming back on the shelves, but still there’s a huge shortage of bikes – especially affordable ones,” he said.

With a gradual uptick in availability, manpower is still needed to operate Bikes For Christ.

A retired principal and a minister are the bike mechanics who help get the bikes into top-notch shape and Simmons has staff who pick up the bikes and drop them off.

One of the drop off locations is the Jarrett-Scott Ford dealership in Plant City.

The charity also operates with board members who help determine how to keep the non-profit working efficiently.

This means continuing to give Bikes For Christ more exposure.

It is present at events like the Dover Rod Run and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office homeless outreach, as well as hosting a non-profit leadership roundtable.

It also partners with the Chamber of Commerce in Plant City, Valrico, Riverview and South Tampa.

Although Bikes For Christ is a non-profit, it still needs funds to continue its work. To do this, the organization has partnered with the Lighthouse Ministries thrift store in Brandon. Some of the bikes are sent there, sold and the funds go toward the charity.

Earlier this year Simmons was diagnosed with kidney cancer. He developed a mass on his right kidney, but fortunately it was removed with surgery.

Despite that, he still has things in store for the organization, saying that, “Gods got a lot more work for me to do.”

Simmons has his eyes on donating to places like Belize and Saint Kitts. He has even had a request for bikes to be sent to India.

Locally he’ll occasionally see someone riding by who is a recipient of the donation, which he says makes him happy.

He explained that the holiday season is typically the busiest time of the year and is ready to provide with open arms.

“My goal is that our bikes enable an individual to go out and find a job, keep that job, be able to go and buy groceries and put food on the table for their families 365 days a year,” said Simmons.

“From there, continue that upward trend of bettering themselves.”

Devon Brown now has a smooth ride to get around with, thanks to Bikes For Christ.

Mark Harrison now has a convenient means of transportation with the help of Bikes For Christ.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

Member FDIC

The Bank of Tampa and Hillsboro Bank

Coming together to serve you Hillsboro Bank and The Bank of Tampa have come together to continue to serve the Plant City area with the same dedicated team and local approach to community banking that you have experienced for the past 22 years. We look forward to serving you as The Bank of Tampa, now and in the future.

Gary L. Boothe Sam Astin, III Antonio C. Azorin Trey Mueller, DMD

Mark S. Poppell James M. Scott Michael S. Sparkman Donald K. Stine

509 W ALEXANDER ST. | PLANT CITY, FL | 33563

Mike Ward Pamela C. Warnock Nick Thurston Matthew Buzza

813.707.6506 thebankoftampa.com

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL RELEASES 2022 CONCERT LINEUP TAYLOR JENKINS

MONDAY, MARCH 7

STAFF WRITER

Renowned for it’s star-studded lineup that spans across several different generations, genres and styles, the Strawberry Festival’s 2022 musical lineup is sure to keep that tradition alive.

Beginning on March 3 and running through the entirety of the 11-day festival, 24 headlining acts will take to the Wish Farms Soundstage and bring audience members both young and old to their feet once again after COVID-19 cancelled all headlining acts in 2020 Advance tickets for admission and for headline entertainment shows will go on sale Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021 at 8 a.m. and can be purchased online at www.flstrawberryfestival.com, at the Amscot Main Ticket Office located at 2209 W. Oak Avenue in Plant City and by phone at 813754-1996.

THE 2022 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP: THURSDAY, MARCH 3 10:30 a.m. Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra 3:30 p.m. The Oak Ridge Boys 7:30 p.m. Lady A

3:30 p.m. John Anderson 7:30 p.m. Kenzie Wheeler

TUESDAY, MARCH 8 3:30 p.m. Ricky Nelson Remembered Starring

Matthew & Gunnar Nelson

7:30 p.m. Zach Williams

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9 3:30 p.m. Lee Greenwood 7:30 p.m. Jake Owen

THURSDAY, MARCH 10 10:30 a.m. The Lettermen 3:30 p.m. The Drifters, Cornell Gunter’s Coasters

& The Platters

7:30 p.m. Tesla

FRIDAY, MARCH 11 3:30 p.m. Gene Watson 7:30 p.m. Cole Swindell

FRIDAY, MARCH 4

SATURDAY, MARCH 12

3:30 p.m. The Beach Boys 7:30 p.m. Boyz II Men

3:30 p.m. Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots 7:30 p.m. Nelly

SATURDAY, MARCH 3:30 p.m. Home Free 7:30 p.m. Lauren Daigle

SUNDAY, MARCH 13

SUNDAY, MARCH 6 3:30 p.m. Chicks With hits Featuring Terri Clark,

Pam Tillis and Suzy Bogguss

7:30 p.m. Sammy Hagar & The Circle

3:30 p.m. The Bellamy Brothers 7:30 p.m. Sam Hunt

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

Need a reason to switch Medicare plans?

We have 5 of them.

For the year 2022, BayCarePlus has earned Medicare’s highest honor—5 stars!

We’ve achieved the highest rating given by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a 5-star rating. Star ratings are based on quality of care and member satisfaction, so we couldn’t be prouder.

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You may reach a messaging service on weekends from April 1 through September 30 and holidays. Please leave a message, and your call will be returned the next business day.

BayCare Select Health Plans is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in BayCare Select Health Plans depends on contract renewal. BayCare Select Health Plans complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

PROGRAM HELPS BROADEN EDUCATION WITH ACTIVITIES Marshall Middle Magnet School Details its IB Program

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Plant City’s Marshall Middle Magnet School is one of many to become an International Baccalaureate (IB) candidate.

In this program, students are exposed to various topics that may take place locally, nationally, or internationally.

This initiative has been taken worldwide and emphasizes on the arts, history, science and human interaction.

“It’s very exciting because it goes beyond the traditional education,” said Kathy Webb, the Marshall Middle Years Program coordinator and magnet leader teacher. “With IB, the encouragement is for students to take ownership of their learning. We want students to be engaged so we offer more hands-on type activities.”

However, these students are still integrated in typical classroom settings with kids outside of the program.

Teachers have to go through 18-month training in order to help accommodate the education these students need. Through IB, they create ‘The Unit Plan’ which are

lessons that connect students with their daily lives to what occurs on a global scale.

“We’re able to infuse this new curriculum and new way of thinking into existing programs and structures that allow us to expand them in a whole new way,” said Dennis May, principal at Marshall Middle Magnet School. “Kids are waiting for the opportunity.”

Each semester Marshall Middle implements one grade at a time into the program. Last year it was only sixth graders, this year is both sixth and seventh grade and next year will include eighth grade.

For Marshall Middle, students outside of the school’s district must apply for the IB program in order to be accepted in the school.

Applying is optional though for students who are already within the district. And kids who are transferring from elementary school into middle school, within the district, are automatically enrolled in the IB program.

“We have families coming from Riverview, Lithia, the Fish Hawk area, Turkey Creek, Tomlin – that are not in our official boundary,” said Webb.

And the school has a Boys and Girls Club on campus. Webb says that it’s an advantage because there are after-school activities to keep kids occupied until their parents can come pick them up.

The Marshall Middle IB program has also incorporated band classes , culinary classes and a robotics club.

These students don’t only learn foreign languages in class, but go in depth with the cultures behind each.

Its culinary arts program is just one out of four Hillsborough County middle schools that offer the ServSafe certificate, that’s good for five years.

To obtain the certificate students must pass a culinary based exam. And when they are in high school, if they choose to enter the food industry, they start off at a higher pay than if they were to enter after high school. When they graduate high school, they’re eligible to go straight to a management position.

“I’m trying to get more student voice,” said Mayo. “A couple times a week I try to have students do the afternoon announcements. We’ve reestablished a morning show by the students.”

He taught agriculture courses for 10 years and said that trying to incorporate projects was a constant mission.

Christina Hill is a sixth-grade science teacher at Marshall Middle and has been teaching there for four years now.

She allows her IB students to have a more detailed exposure to science.

“Right now we’re on a unit called weathering erosion and deposition,” said Hill. “A lot of the activities we do are pretty much project based.”

She says that the IB program helped her steer away from the typical lecturing and power point presentations, to teaching with a more hands on approach with activities.

The staff is ready to expand more with new ideas, even allowing the students to offer their imput.

“I’m very excited in the direction we’re heading,” said Mayo. “We’re doing great here at Marshall.”

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

TOYOTA VENZA HAS RETURNED… AND WE ARE GLAD IT SIPS FUEL! VENZA (LIMITED)

Photo courtesy of Nitish S. Rele

Tires: P225/55R19 Wheelbase: 105.9 inches Length: 186.6 inches Height: 65.9 inches Width: 73 inches Fuel capacity: 14.5 gallons Mileage: city 40, highway 37 Weight: 3,913 pounds Base price: $39,800 Price as tested: $43,100 Web site: www.toyota.com NITISH S. RELE motoringtampabay@gmail.com

It’s back! After a five-year hiatus, Toyota has re-introduced the Venza into the market solely as a hybrid version and standard all-wheel drive. This secondgeneration midsize SUV boasts a sleek appearance, opulent cabin features, and commendable gas-sipping figures that will attract streams of buyers as fuel prices continue to skyrocket.

Sharing the hybrid power train with RAV4, the 2.5-liter DOHC inline-4 cylinder gas engine develops 176 horsepower @ 5700 rpm and 163 pounds-feet of torque @ 5200 rpm. Three electric motors (two up front and one in the rear) boast hp up to 219 hp. A 252-volt lithium-ion battery, which is placed under the rear seat for space purposes, is recharged by energy captured as the driver applies the brakes or coasts. Also, the electronically controlled continuous variable transmissionequipped sedan boasts a regenerative braking system.

An independent MacPherson strut front and multilink rear suspension with stabilizer bar does a particularly good job of soaking bumps and potholes with skill and sure-footedness in the front- wheel or all-wheel-drive ride. Also, the rackand-pinion electric power steering makes it a breeze to pulling into a parking lot or step up to higher speed.

The Venza operates in four modes: EV, which is electric at lower speeds of up to 25 mph; ECO, an efficient mode where the driver can control the throttle opening; normal; and sport for some feisty driving.

The rounded instrument display showing charge, power and eco readings will come in handy for drivers who like to eke out every gallon of fuel.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag and driver knee airbag are standard along with side-impact door beams, fourwheel antilock brakes, electronic brake distribution and brake assist, vehicle stability and traction control, blind spot

monitor with front/rear park assist, bird’s eye view camera and front and rear crumple zones. Also included at no cost is Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which fetches the owner a pre-collision system that detects pedestrians, lane departure alert and lane trace assist, and dynamic cruise control.

Projector-beam LED headlights surround a dark gray front grille with chrome accent hosting a blue-tinted Toyota insignia. The lush cabin portrays a Lexus-like feel like opulent and tech backdrops. Atop the dashboard, the 12.3-inch touchscreen for infotainment controls is straightforward to operate.

Rear-seat passengers should be satisfied to enjoy not just two hidden cup holders in the center console but also air vents in front. Fold the 60/40-split second row seat down and you get 55.1 cubic feet of cargo space. Storage areas are scattered throughout the cabin, including eight cup/bottle holders, four USB ports and overhead sunglass holder. Standard conveniences include eight-way power driver and four-way front-passenger heated/ cooled seats, dual auto a/c, leather tilt/ telescopic steering column and shifter, height-adjustable power lift gate and a 9-speaker JBL audio system.

To repeat, it’s great to have the Venza make a comeback. Plentiful passenger/ cargo room should entice interested folks to sign on the dotted line for this appealing SUV. Besides, who doesn’t want a gas sipper for a ride? (we earned up to 41.2 mpg).

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

PlantCityObserver.com

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.

PHOENIX: Meet Phoenix! He loves to snuggle his mom, jump out and scare people and rainy days. This kitten’s personality is out of this world!

NOVEMBER 18, 2021

SPORTS SCOREBOARD 2021 SEASON RECAP LOCAL PREPS

Football - Nov. 12 PLANT CITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 VENICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 DURANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 WEST ORANGE . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Boys Soccer - Nov. 16 NEWSOME. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 DURANT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 PLANT CITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 BRANDON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 KING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 STRAWBERRY CREST . . . . . . . . 2

Girls Soccer - Nov. 16 NEWSOME. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 DURANT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 PLANT CITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 BRANDON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 KING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 STRAWBERRY CREST . . . . . . . . 8

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

DURANT COUGARS (8-3)

After 18 years under former head coach Mike Gottman, former alumnus andformer Durant football player himself Claybo Varnum took over as head coach for the Cougars.

In his first year as head coach, Durant finished second in the 8A District 10 standings with an 8-2 regular season record, the team’s highest single-season win total since 2016. Despite a young defense and a reformed identity on offense, the Cougars were able to notch 372 points for and 152 points allowed, both of which paced the district and led to their district-best point differential of +220.

On offense the Cougars were led by senior quarterback Marcus Miguele, completing 53 percent of his passes and eclipsing the 1000-yard mark on the season with 1,007 passing yards and 15 touchdowns to just five interceptions. But he wasn’t just dangerous in the pocket, finishing second on the team with 643 rushing yards and eight more touchdowns on the ground.

Miguele’s most popular target was junior wide receiver Jeremiah Gines who hauled in 22 receptions for 389 yards and eight touchdowns, followed by Elian Gonzalez with 221 yards and four touchdowns.

The Cougars found a surprising star early in junior running back Calub Connell. While sophomore Alex Daley was projected as the starter prior to the season, he was forced to miss time to start the year and Connell ran away with the starting job.

Connell finished the season with teamhigh 730 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns on 111 carries. Upon his return however, Daley made his presence in the backfield known with 570 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 66 carries.

Defensively, senior defensive lineman Leo Tabakovic exploded for 18 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks while linebacker tandem Jacob Reed and Austin Bovee shored up the middle of the field with nine and seven tackles for loss, respectively. Reed also paced the team by a significant margin with 93 total tackles.

In the defensive backfield, Jayden Cornelius hauled in a staggering five interceptions as a freshman, followed by junior Xavier Peavy and sophomore Luther Scarlett with two each.

All-Conference selections First-team: OG Cade McClellen, DE Leo Tabakovic Second-team: QB Marcus Miguele, WR Jeremiah Gines, LB Jacob Reed PLANT CITY RAIDERS (6-5)

Heading into the 2021 season for the Raiders it was evident that there would likely be some growing pains on offense as Plant City’s starting quarterback and top four pass-catchers from the 2020 season, including every single player to haul in a touchdown pass, were lost to graduation.

Most notably, former top-ranked wide receiver and current Oklahoma Sooner Mario Williams.

With so much talent in the pass game departing, the run game was leaned on to provide consistency early, led by senior running back Reggie Bush Jr. Bush totaled 856 yards and seven touchdowns, highlighted by a 265-yard, four-touchdown performance in a 24-21 win over Plant late in the season.

But despite inexperience, moving the ball through the air remained an integral part of the Plant City offense with junior Clint Danzey stepping up under center.

Danzey finished the season with 1,483 passing yards and 15 touchdowns to just six interceptions. At receiver, a pair of seniors in Sincere Williams and Jaylen Gadson led the charge. Williams handled a majority of the volume, bringing in a team-high 37 receptions and 555 receiving yards with four touchdowns, while Gadson was a master of efficiency. Despite just 17 catches on the year, Gadson turned those limited opportunities into 405 yards and seven touchdowns, good for an unbelievable 23.8

yards per reception and 2.4 receptions per touchdown scored.

Defensively the Raiders saw a much more experienced unit. Senior edge rusher D.J. Haynes led the team with 22 tackles for loss, followed by junior inside linebacker Cole Highsmith with 20. The duo also notched seven sacks each. Alongside Highsmith was senior linebacker Rhet Conyers who led the team with 111 total tackles and racked up 15 tackles for loss of his own.

But arguably the strongest unit on the roster came in their defensive secondary with a trio of seniors in Jermarian Jackson, Ian Jolly and Romello Jones. Jackson led the group with three interceptions and seven passes defended while Jolly notched five passes defended and Jones notched one interception and four passes defended. A jack of all trades, Jones also totaled 383 rushing yards and two scores on the ground, 130 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions, 266 yards on seven kickoff returns and two blocked punts.

All-Conference selections First-team: C D.J. Robinson, OLB D.J. Haynes, DB Jermarian Jackson Second-team: RB Reggie Bush Jr., WR Sincere Williams, OT Jovani Torres, DB Romello Jones STRAWBERRY CREST CHARGERS (5-5)

While the ultimate goal at the beginning of every season may be to win your district and put yourself in the best possible position to reach a state championship when your potential playoff run begins, each team has separate and relative goals. For head coach Phillip Prior, that goal was laying the foundation for a growing program, a young program that had previously finished .500 or better just twice - going 7-5 in 2013 and 5-5 in 2010 - over their 13 seasons.

Despite 2021 serving as Prior’s third season as head coach, it was his first year in which he was able to hold a traditional

spring football season with summer workouts after being hired just weeks before the 2019 season began and seeing COVID-19 cancel any such preparations in 2020. With wins over Spoto, Freedom, Brandon and Leto and accruing another win due to a forfeit from Armwood, the Chargers finished the season at .500 for just the third time.

While it was expected before the season that the Chargers would use a rotation in their backfield, both at the running back and quarterback positions, quarterback Coby Burger took over as the primary signal caller midseason. And although he totaled just 72 passing yards on the season, Burger’s ability to make plays on the ground opened up a new dimension for Crest’s offense. Burger led the team with 358 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 82 carries, even hauling in a 25-yard reception against Leto.

At running back, Crest got the bulk of their production from junior Ryan Weems with 354 rushing yards and four touchdowns, followed by sophomore Devin Blunt with 231 rushing yards and one touchdown. At receiver, the Chargers had just one wideout eclipse 100 receiving yards on the year as junior Quincy Hart hauled in five receptions for 153 yards and two touchdowns, ending the year with 30.6 yards per reception.

Senior defensive lineman Brock Craig led the defense with eight tackles for loss while sophomore Quintin Walker led the team with four sacks. And with a young team, several of the Chargers’ offensive skill players were tasked with playing both sides of the ball. Weems brought in a team-high two interceptions while Blunt added one of his own and junior receiver and defensive back Marcus Springfield led the team with five passes defended and 49 total tackles.

All-Conference selections Second-team: OL Elijah Johnson, DB Marcus Springfield

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

PLANT CITY COLTS SEND THREE TEAMS TO SUPER BOWL After seeing the 2020 season cancelled due to COVID-19, the Plant City Colts returned stronger than ever

Photos courtesy of Bryant Stallworth

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

After a 2019 season in which the Plant City Colts’ youth football organization sent all five of their football teams to the Mid Florida Football and Cheerleading Conference playoffs for the first time in history, the organization was forced to sit out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19.

After witnessing several players take the 2020 season off or move to different organizations for the year, it was unclear to many within the organization what participation would look like when they resumed action in 2021. But with excitement building for a return to the football field, the Colts’ community showed unwavering support as enrollment brought a record number of players to tryouts.

“It was so awesome,” coach Clifford Stallworth said. “We had so much par-

ticipation from the community. From guys coming out and volunteering, setting up mini-camps, setting up conditioning and training, tutoring… And with the addition of the new Sadye-Gibbs Community Center and the kids coming out at that rate, it was just a phenomenal year. It was a phenomenal year.”

Now getting off the ground wasn’t easy, as COVID cases in both organizations caused their first week of games to be cancelled and weather wiped out their second, but the Colts were able to overcome and once again send all five of their teams to the playoffs before making history again. For the first time in program history, the Colts watched three of their teams make the MFFCC Super Bowl, played this past Saturday at Kathleen High School in Lakeland.

“For us to have three teams here, to have that trifecta in there, it’s awesome,” said Stallworth.

But the Colts made sure that the players wouldn’t just be a part of the Super Bowl on Saturday, making an entire event of the day with tents set up to cover platters of food and drinks while Stallworth tended the grill and the sparkling grape juice chilled on ice.

“It’s just an event that we’re having to just celebrate the accomplishments of our young men,” Stallworth said. “We just want to make it a star-studded event for them, we just wanted to create a platform where we can say congratulations before the games even start. We’re glad that you’re here representing the great city of Plant City and we just want to wish you the best and send you off for your last game.”

With three teams fighting for the coveted Super Bowl trophy, two of the Colts’ teams came away victorious. While their six-and-under flag football team fell 7-6 in their contest, the Colts’ Pee Wee team won 22-14 while their J.V. team narrowly escaped with a 19-18 win.

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

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

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FHSAA ADDS GIRL’S WRESTLING STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

In 2021, Florida joined a growing list of states to sanction girl’s wrestling.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

In 1998, Hawaii became the first state to officially sanction a high school state championship tournament for girl’s wrestling and Texas followed suit in 1999. Then came Washington in 2007, California in 2011 and the dominoes began to fall across the nation.

In 2021, Florida, Illinois and Wisconsin will all sanction a girl’s wrestling state championship, bringing the total count to 26 states as female participation in the sport grows alongside the number of states that are recognizing it. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, girl’s wrestling showed the biggest jump in participation among all high school sports during the 2018-

2019 school year with 21,124 girls participating, an increase of 4,562 athletes - or 27.5 percent - from the year before. In addition, the number of schools that offered girl’s wrestling that year also increased by 2,890, an increase of 22.9 percent from the year before.

At the college level, Iowa recently became the first Power 5 Division I college program to add a women’s wrestling program.

But right here in Plant City, you won’t have to look any further than the influx of new wrestlers on Strawberry Crest’s team to see the growing amount of female participation, all with their own individual introductions to the sport.

Sophomore Arden Swindle was introduced to the sport by her older brother and has been

wrestling for four years with Top Gun Wrestling Academy, now in her second year at the high school level with Crest. Swindle says that she doesn’t look at wrestling against men as a disadvantage, she zones that aspect out, but has certainly been long waiting for women wrestlers to have their own space in the sport.

“It’s taken too long,” Swindle said. “We’ve been waiting for it, I’ve been waiting for it for a long time. We’ll now have our own division and that can take you a lot farther.”

For first-year female wrestlers on the team like sophomore Sophia Christian, wrestling is a way to participate in a high school sport after previously training in other combat sports like jiu-jitsu.

But for other first-time wrestlers,

the sport provides a whole new experience.

“There weren’t a lot of girls so I wanted to try it out and see why no one is joining,” Ariel Goble said about the beginning of her first year on Crest’s team. “[So far] it’s really fun, really rigorous and I’ve enjoyed it.”

The high school regular season will look largely similar to past years as both men and women face off against each other as normal within their own weight classes. But tournaments, including those for district, regional and state championships, will be sanctioned separately. The high school season will begin early next week, with the state champi-

onship tournament taking place in January.

“It’s huge, absolutely huge,” Strawberry Crest wrestling coach Blake Olson said. “The biggest thing for this sport right now is going to be the growth of women’s wrestling. It’s going to grow both men’s and women’s wrestling right now, getting more bodies into wrestling, getting more eyes on the sport and getting more people hands on with the sport of wrestling. It’s absolutely huge.”

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

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

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We asked Plant City: What musical guest are you most excited to see at this year’s Strawberry Festival??

“Awesome lineup. Tesla and Sammy for me. My kids are looking forward to Cole Swindell and Jake owen and Lady A. Good mix of artists.”

- Eric Richardson “Home Free!” - Michelle Austin

“Bellamy Brothers, Beach Boys, Oakridge Boys, Ricky Nelson twins! I’m still alive and glad they are too! I was so hoping Bobby Bare would be back but maybe next year!” - Cathy Thompson LeGarde

“Lauren Daigle” - Joel Melendez

“Home Free is my favorite.”

- Donna Robbins

“Kenzie Wheeler of course!” - Leslie Carlisle

“Nice lineup! So happy to see that Kenzie is a part of it!” - Tammy Langdale

“I know few of them in this lineup. Sorry.” - Meg Scott

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

Doug Ford, 85, of Plant City, Fla., born in Pontiac, Mich. on Aug. 21, 1936, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 9, 2021.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Muriel Lisbeth Cairnie Cook Muriel Lisbeth Cairnie (Ross) Cook, 80, of Plant City, Fla., died in a car accident on Nov. 4, 2021. Muriel was born in Boston on July 15, 1941.

She grew up in Quincy, Mass., before moving to the UK with her family in her teen years. It was there that Muriel met her future husband, Ian, an engineer who was working on the Cruachan hydroelectric power station. She was sufficiently impressed and they married at the Cathedral in Oban, Scotland, on April 2, 1964.

They lived in Lincolnshire, UK, until the early 1990’s, after which they moved back to the US, and settled in Plant City.

Muriel was a talented artist, most certainly inheriting her artistic genes from her Scottish relatives. She dedicated herself to her watercolor paintings, her needlework, cross-stitch, knitting, and crocheting, creating beauty with much precision. She graciously shared her love of crafts and her creations with friends and family. Muriel was a member of the Art Guild in Plant City, serving as treasurer, and she worked at the local Strawberry Festival for many years. She was also a member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.

Muriel was fascinated by genealogy and she dedicated herself to researching her Scottish roots. Her efforts were rewarded when she received a letter from a very elderly John McCorquodale, from Lismore, who helped her piece together the puzzle of her ancestry. Over the years Muriel became close with many cousins, aunts, and uncles whose parents had come to Boston from Scotland in the early 1900’s, with many family members eventually settling in Ohio and Wisconsin.

The Cairnies from Edinburgh, Scotland, truly represented the American dream—working class people, applying their skills and work ethic to become successful. More recently, Muriel was excited to discover she had relatives on her father’s side in Louisiana and enjoyed visiting and getting to know

Adoption and Rescue Effort, Zacarias them. Muriel displayed a clever wit and had a wicked Inc., 1528 27th Street SE, Jahuey Canjay Ruskin, FL 33570. sense of humor. She was Expressions of condolence a keen observer of people Zacarias Jahuey Canand of life. She knew how to at HopewellFuneral.com jay, 46, of Plant City, FlorAs Antoine de Saintmake those around her feel ida, born on November 5, Exupery wrote in The Little at ease and engage. She 1975 in Hidalgo, Mexico, had a kind heart and gener- Prince, “In one of the stars I entered into eternal rest ous spirit. Throughout her shall be living. In one of them November 13, 2021.

I shall be laughing. And so it life, Muriel was devoted to Expressions of condowill be as if all the stars were lence at www.Hopewellanimals.

May the story of the ‘Rain- laughing when you look at Funeral.com. bow Bridge’ be true, so that the sky at night.”

Muriel will be reunited with her much loved and adored HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM doggies, specifically Bobbie, Binkie, Scooter, Tammy, HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM Peachy, Laci and Rosie.

Joseph Travis She was preceded in James Otis Pelt Jr death by her husband, Ian Norris Cook. She is survived by Joseph Travis Pelt Jr., 60, extended family in Coloof Plant City, Fla., passed James Otis Norris, 101, rado, Ohio, Wisconsin, New born in Troy, Ala., on Oct. 16, away on November 13, Hampshire, Massachusetts, 1920, entered into eternal 2021. He was the son of Vermont, South Carolina, Joseph and Conchita Esrest on Nov. 11.

Louisiana, and the United Expressions of condolence ponoza Pelt, mother is still Kingdom. Muriel’s wishes at HopewellFuneral.com. surviving. Other survivors were to be cremated, with include his significant othher remains to be interred er, Terry Hannah, brother, at the Wollaston Cemetery Donald Pelt. Services will HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM in Quincy, Mass., alongside be held privately. her husband’s.

Online condolences may A memorial service will be be left for the family at held Tuesday, Nov. 30, from www.haught.care.

5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Project Access Resource Center at Walden Lake Apartments, HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM 1400 Plantation Blvd in Plant City, Fla. Donations in honor of Muriel can be made to one of her favorite charities: Best Friends Animal Society, Inc, 5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, UT 84741; The Retirement Home for Horses, Inc., 20307 NW CR 235A, Alachua, FL 32615; Critter

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED

BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

Carlos Torres

OBITUARIES

Doug Ford

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Carlos Torres, age 88, of Plant City, Fla., passed away on Nov. 14, 2021. The family will receive friends Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Haught Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, Nov. 19 at 11 a.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church.

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

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM

116 North Collins Street Plant City, FL 33563 ph: (813) 567-5735 allabloomtampa.com

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Margaret Dalice Smart Plant City is where Margaret was born, graduated high school and peacefully passed away in her sleep on July 29, 2021. In her life-walk with Jesus Christ, she was affiliated with and served many churches and ministries such as Christ Gospel Church, Kenneth Copeland, Frederick Price, Myles Monroe, Morris Cerullo, Marilyn Hickey, and many more. She was devoted to the Lord and always believed her steps were ordered and guided by The Spirit.

She was a faithful servant to the Shoresh David Messianic Synagogue of Tampa, with Rabbi Steve Weiler giving her Eulogy. She was gifted with Wisdom and known for her true integrity. She was very outspoken about life, politics, church, and family. She was a proud member of the Republican Party. She attended meetings, set up campaign offices, and worked polls.

She attended several inaugurations and was awarded a private viewing of the White House.

She volunteered at several organizations. she was known to attend events at the LB Brown House Museum, Civil War reenactments and The Buffalo Soldiers Fl. Inc. (who served as Pallbearers). She felt God had blessed her with her Bumblebee Express Delivery Company for her to bless others. She let others know she felt like she was, “The Fabulous Free Woman of Color.”

She leaves behind a son Dwayne, a daughter Caresa, a Godson David, a Goddaughter Sharon, along with two grandchildren, six Godgrandchildren, a brother, three sisters, a sister-in-law and many more. There are many friends who she left with memories that make us thankful to God for having our paths cross.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

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OBITUARIES

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BEST BET FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, NOV. 19-20 PLANT CITY PIG JAM The Plant City Pig Jam returns this Friday and Saturday at the Randy Larson Softball Fourplex, 1401 Gordon Food Service Dr. The event will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and play host to fabulous food, kid’s activities, live music on two separate entertainment stages and more. Enjoy the barbecue and vendors while the kids can take on a rock climbing wall and moon walks. If you think that you’ve got the best barbecue around, the Kansas City Barbeque Society will also hold sanctioned competitions with competitors coming from every corner of the country. Teams will compete in both professional and amateur divisions and $18,800 in prizes will be awarded to the top ten teams in categories that include ribs, pork, beef brisket and chicken. Admission is free but parking will cost $10 per vehicle. For more information, visit www.plantcitypigjam.com.

FRIDAY NOV. 19 RETRO MOVIE NIGHT

7 to 8:30 at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Head to the loft at Krazy Kup every third Friday each month for Retro Movie Night. Bring the family, grab a treat from downstairs, relax and watch a new movie selection each month. November’s movie will be Beauty and the Beast.

STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN

3 to 6:30 p.m. at 102 N Palmer St. The Plant City Strawberry Cruise-In is back on Saturday, Nov. 20, rain or shine. Cars and trucks manufactured in or before 1996 can register for free starting at 3 p.m. Live music will be provided by DJ John Paul Gasca. The event takes place on the third Saturday of each month, featuring great music, food, vendors and classic cars.

BLUEGRASS NIGHT

7 to 8:30 at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Enjoy Bluegrass music?

Then look no further. Head down to Krazy Kup and enjoy live Bluegrass entertainment from seasoned Bluegrass group Hwy 41 S. All are welcome and admission is $15.

SATURDAY, NOV. 20 SUNSHINE STATE CANNIBIS FESTIVAL 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. at 2805 W. Reynolds St. Florida’s largest cannabis culture festival is coming to Plant City. The event will take place on both Saturday, Nov. 20 and Sunday Nov. 21 from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.

The event will host vendors, food trucks, live music, games,

products and more. The event is family and pet friendly. Admission is $10 at the door or $5 in advance. Those under 18 are free with a paying adult, but all under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Parking is by donation with proceeds going to local churches. Purchase your tickets at www.eventbrite.com and for more information, call 610-2976939 or visit www.sunfest420. com.

TUESDAY, NOV. 23 TEENS TEACH TECH FOR 21ST-CENTURY SENIORS

4 to 5 p.m. Who knows the latest technology better than teenagers? All seniors looking to learn how to navigate the Internet and keep up with an ever-changing digital world can learn from the best every Tuesday afternoon at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St. Call 813-659-4256 for more information.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 24 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 813-704-5800 to set a specific time.

SUNSET SOUNDS

6 to 8 p.m. at 5202 Thonotosassa Rd. Sunset Sounds is a summer music series featuring acoustic music from local art-

ists. Head over to Keel & Curley Winery every Wednesday evening to enjoy music, food, drinks and sunshine on their patio.

THURSDAY, DEC. 2 23RD ANNUAL LIGHTS OF LOVE

5:30 to 7:30 at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. On Thursday, Dec. 2 the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation will light up Plant City with their 23rd annual Lights of Love tree lighting ceremony. Starting at 5:30, kids can get their pictures taken with Santa, a musical program will begin at 6:30 and then the lighting of the Lights of Love tree will take place at 7. A gift of $25 or more will place a light on the tree in honor or in memory of someone special to you, or in your own name. Your gift will benefit medical services and healthcare workers at South Florida Baptist Hospital. Sponsors for the event are also welcome. For more information or to make a donation, visit www.

SFBHFoundation.org.

SATURDAY, DEC. 4 FROM THE REALMS OF GLORY

7:30 to 9 p.m. at 705 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL. After missing their annual holiday concert in 2020 due to COVID-19, the Plant City Community Chorale is thrilled to announce their 2020 holiday concert, From the Realms of Glory. The event is sponsored by Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens and will take place at Nativity Catholic Church in Brandon, the Chorale’s first time performing at the venue. The Chorale,

under the direction of Claudia Bolano, will perform several holiday favorites that will have you humming along, tapping your toes and feeling warmed by the spirit of the music and joy of the holiday season. Tickets are $15 and available at www. pccchorale.org, facebook.com/ pccommunitychorale, from any Chorale member, at the Walden Lake Car Wash, at the door or by calling 813-965-7213.

BLUEGRASS JAM!

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

SATURDAY, DEC. 11 FUN WITH FLOWERS

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 605 N. Collins St. The Plant City Garden Club invites you to head over to the 1914 High School Community Center for their Fun with Flowers Event where you will have the opportunity to create your very own Christmas centerpiece with instruction from National Flower Show judge KC Jeronimo. Cost for the event is $25 and includes all supplies and a light lunch. If you would like to attend, you must reserve your spot in advance. Reserve your place by sending $25 payable to the Plant City Garden Club, C/O D.D. Severson, Plant City FL. 33566. Please bring your own clippers and scissors and for more information, text/ call 206-406-3034.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FORECAST

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THURSDAY, NOV 18 High: 80 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 59%

FRIDAY, NOV 19 High: 79 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 39%

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Nov 18

6:52a

5:34p

Friday, Nov 19

6:53a

5:34p

Saturday, Nov 20

6:54a

5:33p

Sunday, Nov 21

6:55a

5:33p

Monday, Nov 22

6:55a

5:33p

Tuesday, Nov 23

6:56a

5:33p

Wednesday, Nov 24

6:57a

5:32p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, NOV 20 High: 78 Low: 55 Chance of rain: 36%

SUNDAY, NOV 21 High: 79 Low: 64 Chance of rain: 22%

MONDAY, NOV 22 Nancy Fischer snapped this photo while muscovy ducks were congregating near the Walden Woods Post Office in Plant City.

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High: 78 Low: 49 Chance of rain: 22%

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Across 1 Ones who usually know what to do with their hands 11 She taught Butch and Sundance Spanish for their Bolivian robberies 15 Turn yellow 16 Level 17 Italian menu word meaning “hunter” 18 Rig 19 Spot about being green, for short 20 Earthquakes or Fire, briefly 22 Kind of engine 23 Lhasa __ 24 Snack chip

26 Row houses?

29 Agamemnon pair 32 In again 33 Only 34 Social science classic 36 DEA employee 37 Research Triangle city 38 Green of “Casino Royale” 39 French archipelago 41 Cello’s lack 42 City with a Cleveland Browns training facility 43 Network operated by the U.S. Space Force 44 Hosiery thread 45 Theater company?

47 Vet school subj.

49 DIRECTV parent 50 Hotel convenience 53 Get rid of 56 “Kills bugs dead” brand 58 It doesn’t affect a starting pitcher’s win-loss record 60 Permanently mark 61 Hard to follow, facetiously 62 True 63 Trials with blindfolds, perhaps Down 1 Soyuz initials 2 Revelations 3 Like una heredera

4 XXV x XXVIII 5 Cuts corners 6 Recovers 7 Snack with an unappetizing name 8 Square __ 9 Unmitigated 10 Place 11 Start at the beginning?

12 Nerves 13 Cause of many fictional paradoxes 14 “Did it start already?”

21 Transmute 23 Put away the dishes?

25 Portuguese royal 26 Olympics opening ceremony VIP 27 Threat to world peace 28 Ross Sea locale 30 Exhaust 31 Flutters with excitement 34 Indian lentil stew 35 Spend time in a cellar, perhaps 37 Provide new pieces for?

40 __ juvante: with God’s help 41 Honda subcompact 44 Roundup tool 46 Bit of color 48 Mother-of-pearl 51 Pelican St. city 52 Shakespearean warning word 53 Designs 54 Cancel 55 The odds are with them 57 UPS alternative 59 Seattle-to-Reno dir.

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Dec. 4 New

Dec. 10 First

Nov. 19 Full

Nov. 27 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

0.42 in.

3.75 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

NOV. AVERAGE:

49.91 in.

1.83 in.

CUCUMBERS Shipping point: South Florida $14.00-$22.90

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021

PlantCityObserver.com