11.27.19 PLCO

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

NEWS BRIEFS

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Christmas Lane continues tradition of helping local families With the holidays right around the corner, Christmas Lane is stepping up to ensure two lucky families have a one-of-a-kind experience they’ll remember for years to come.

Christmas Lane is partnering with Publix Supermarkets, Inc. and the Plant City Observer to help spread the holiday cheer right here in Plant City. The public is asked to nominate a deserving family by sending entries of no more than 500 words to Managing Editor Sarah Holt at sholt@plantcityobserver.com by Dec 2.

The winners will receive: - Four VIP tickets to Christmas Lane - A professional photo with Santa Claus - Four Christmas Lane concession stand tickets - A $100 Publix giftcard.

Winners will be announced on Dec. 5 online and in the print edition of the Plant City Observer.

’Tow to Go’ service available for Thanksgiving

County offers free HIV, STD testing

If you need to get home around Thanksgiving but have had a little too much to drink, AAA and Budweiser will help you for free.

The two organizations have partnered to offer a free “Tow to Go” service for AAA members and non-members alike to take advantage of this week. From now through 6 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, you can call AAA and (855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246 for a free ride for yourself and your vehicle to your home or a safe area within 10 miles of your location. Response times are based on AAA driver availability and call volume, and some rural areas may not have access to the service.

To learn more, visit AAA.com/TowtoGo.

Anyone looking to get tested for HIV and any STD can do so for free thanks to the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County.

The free day of testing at the Specialty Care Clinic, 1105 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa and the University Area Health Center, 13601 N. 22nd St., Tampa, starts at 7:30 a.m. Dec. 2 and ends at 3 p.m. that day. Adults who visit the facilities on that day can also get flu and hepatitis A shots for free while there.

For more information, visit hillsborough. floridahealth.gov.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

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PIG JAM RETURNS TO PLANT CITY The 2019 edition of Plant City’s annual two-day barbecue competition was held Nov. 22 and 23 behind the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

There’s no better place to pig out in November than right here in Plant City.

Last weekend was further proof of that, as the 2019 Pig Jam barbecue competition took over the lot behind the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex and drew competitors from all over the nation, as well as hungry families looking to spend their “Pig Bucks” on world-class cooking. Competitors were judged individually in the categories of Chicken, Ribs, Pork and Brisket, plus “Backyard” categories for each, and then graded by their overall scores.

There was also a big play area for the kids, live music by the Daniel Sprouse Band, a margarita competition, a fireworks show the night of Nov. 22 that lit up the smokefilled skies and more.

BBQ

WINNERS

Justin Kline

Hardwood BBQ is a local favorite that regularly competes at Pig Jam.

MASTER SERIES

Grand Champion: Pig-Chicka-Cow-Cow Reserve Champion: Swamp Boys FINAL RANKINGS AND POINTS:

1.Pig-Chicka-Cow-Cow 701.6912 2. Swamp Boys 694.2284 3. Hardwood BBQ, Inc. 685.7144 4. Hot Wachula's 683.3368 5. Midnight Burn 682.7428 6. Smokin Blue Q 682.2512 7. Sweet Smoke Q 682.2056

8. Fantasy Q 681.6344 9. Cooter's N Smoke 681.0512 10. Boomerang BBQ 678.2284 11. B-S BBQ Outlaws 677.0172 12. Smokin' Ain't EZ BBQ 675.3256 13. Double Barrel Smokers 671.2912 14. Whiskey Bent Waywards 667.3256 15. Is It Ready Yet? BBQ 666.1712 16. Knife Pork and Spoon 665.6344 17. Brothers of Ohio BBQ 661.0396 18. Hoggy Bottom Boys 660.4456

19. Smokin' Beach BBQ 658.7428 20. The Blue Bloods 656.4340 21. Chubbys BBQ 656.4000 22. Going Yard BBQ 655.8396 23. Accutech BBQ 655.8048 24. Rack City Ribz 654.7544 25. Florida Boys 653.5768 26. Hogs Gone Wild BBQ 652.4572 27. Swinos 649.5196 28. BackMan BBQ 648.3884 29. Morgan-Que 647.3712 30. Poppell Insurance BBQ Team 643.8164 31. Smokin' Aces BBQ 634.1828 32. USF Tampa Campus Lions 634.0680 33. Smokin and Pokin 617.5660 34. K & E's Little Smokers 603.9088 35. Pig In or Pig Out 586.6972 36. Plant City Second Hand Smoke 583.7488 37. Smoke Shack 560.0912 38. Southern Food & BBQ Inc. 552.5824 39. R.C. Buck's Grillin' Team 496.4688 BACKYARD SERIES FINAL RANKINGS AND POINTS:

1. Williams and Sons Bar B Que 674.8000 2. Hitem Hard 666.7316 3. Wicked Oak BBQ 666.2176 4. Done Right Smokin' 664.9944 5. Pig Timers 664.4000 6. Grease Monkey BBQ 660.5144 7. Maker Oink 657.6000 8. La Famiglia 655.8628 9. Wombat Down BBQ 649.6344 10. Evans Ranch BBQ 647.2684 11. KeiserQ 633.6232 12. Holloway Heat 631.8516 13. 2 Live Que 630.6176 14. Bamboo Warriors 627.2460 15. Hog Jaws BBQ 626.6168 16. Uncharted BBQ 626.2060

17. Two Crackers Cooking 625.6116 18. Big Red BBQ FL 623.3720 19. Sikes Southern BBQ 622.8460 20. Nice Racks BBQ 619.9316 21. Ducks Delight 613.4972 22. Suckin Bones BBQ 607.3260 23. Team Taylor-Que 601.5888 24. Porkganic BBQ 599.8288 25. C & C Services of Tampa, Inc. 598.7768 26. Meat Head BBQ 549.6228 27. BBQ Addicts 472.4572 28. Hot Rod BBQ 438.2172 OPEN COMPETITION FINAL RANKINGS AND POINTS:

1. Plant City Second Hand Smoke 162.8572 2. Done Right Smokin' 158.3544 3. BBQ Addicts 156.5256 4. Wombat Down BBQ 135.4516 5. Smokin' Aces BBQ 130.7884 Full results viewable online at mms.kcbs.us/members/ evr/view_scores.php?org_ id=KCBA&evid=41399817.

CABO WABO MARGARITA CONTEST WINNERS

FINAL RANKINGS AND POINTS:

1. Plant City Second Hand Smoke 162.8572 2. Done Right Smokin' 158.3544 3. BBQ Addicts 156.5256 4. Wombat Down BBQ 135.4516 5. Smokin' Aces BBQ 130.7884

SEE MORE PHOTOS ONLINE AT PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

Justin Kline

Swamp Boys BBQ traveled from Winter Haven to compete.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

PLANT CITY

COPS CORNER

4

Observer

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigated stolen wallets, counterfeit $20 bills,

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

trespassing campers, missing baby

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com

formula and more.

Associate Editor / Sports Editor / Justin Kline JKline@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez

NOV. 16 REVERSE HOUDINI 1500 block of East Tomlin Street Vehicle burglary: This victim reported that during the night of Nov. 15, an unknown suspect entered her locked vehicle via unknown methods and stole her brown leather wallet, which contained miscellaneous cards.

HYUNDAI HEIST 1100 block of North Gordon Street Vehicle theft: During the night of Nov. 15, someone snuck onto this victim’s property and stole his gray 2019 Hyundai Elantra, which had a Florida license plate.

shattered and the cash register removed from the building.

WHERE THERE’S SMOKE, THERE’S FIRE 1600 block of West Lowry Street Arson: This victim reported that fire damage was found on the horizontal blinds and windows within the home. A report was taken and the Fire Marshal arrived on the scene to conduct their investigation.

FAKE IT ‘TIL YOU MAKE IT 1500 block of East Baker Street Possession of counterfeit bills: Officers responded to the Dollar General at the above listed location in reference to a man attempting to pass a counterfeit $20 bill. Contact was made with the man and he was charged with False Name to LEO, DWLSR, Uttering Forged Instrument and Possession of 10 or more Counterfeit Bills.

NOV. 18

NOV. 20

SAY IT, DON’T SPRAY IT 700 block of West Ball Street Criminal mischief: This complainant reported to officers that during an unknown time during the night of Nov. 17, an unknown suspect spray painted PC=US in white spray paint on the side of her blue Ford Fusion.

HOME IMPEDIMENT 100 block of Maki Road Residential burglary: This victim reported the theft of a blue 2000-watt Powerhorse generator valued at $600.00, four Hunter Bay ceiling fans valued at $265.00 each and three light fixtures, brushed nickel in color, which were valued at $750.00. He had dropped the items off at the location for installation.

PLACEBO PRESCRIPTION 400 block of North Alexander Street Fraud (Counterfeit prescription): Officers responded to the CVS at the above listed location and learned that a fraudulent prescription was filled by the pharmacy on Nov. 17.

Advertising / Richard Brame richard@plantcityobserver.com Advertising / Karen Berry kberry@plantcityobserver.com

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, 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103.

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.

Mail: The Plant City Observer, 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103, Plant City, FL 33563

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

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ST. PETER’S PROVIDES THANKSGIVING MIRACLES

For approximately two decades, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church has quietly distributed massive quantities of food to local school children and their families during the holidays.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Thanks to the efforts of members of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, hundreds of local families have had something to be thankful for during the holidays.

For the past 20 years, the church has collected everything you would need to whip up a Thanksgiving feast your family would remember for years to come and divided them up into massive laundry baskets to send to local schools. The principals at those schools then identify students whose families they believe would benefit the most from the gift and the near 50-pound basket is handed off, quietly and under the radar, to the child’s parents.

“We started small, approximately 20 years ago,” Sandy Black, St. Peter’s member and former principal at Springhead Elementary School, said. “At

that time I was still the principal at Springhead and Ms. Marion Gatliff’s grandchildren had gone to Springhead. She started talking about doing something like this for the school, and so that year we focused just on our one school. Then every year we challenged ourselves. What if we did five baskets? What if we did two schools? We really just were pushing to see how much we could get.”

Now the congregation provides the gift of 20 baskets to four schools: Springhead, Burney Elementary, Walden Lake Elementary and Cork Elementary. A few months before Thanksgiving, Gatliff will stand from her pew during a weekly service and remind people the holiday is around the corner. From there, the donations begin to pour in.

Black said St. Peter’s actually gathers food year-round for the food bank, and it begins approximately six weeks before Thanks-

giving to save the food for this project as well as accept monetary and physical donations to meet its goal of filling 20 baskets.

It all began nearly two decades ago with Gatliff’s vision and now it has blossomed into a massive undertaking.

Classics like turkeys, sweet potatoes, green beans, stuffing, and pies, and even non-holiday food like pasta and cereal, are gathered. Cooking essentials like sugar and flour are also put into the basket. Every aspect of the meal is covered and Black said the hope is the food they give them will last well beyond one day and its leftovers.

They also want the family to have plenty of food for the upcoming weeks so there is less stress on trying to find the money to put food on the table and buy gifts for their loved ones.

“We have an active outreach program and part of our ministries is to give back to the com-

munity wherever there is a need,” parishioner Craig Davidson, said.

“The turkey alone is 15 pounds, the basket totals around 50 pounds.”

The volunteers came in early on Nov. 22 and laid out the food into separate categories for each table.

Then, like a well-oiled machine, they began the routine.

Each grabbed a basket and loaded it with goodies. Once it weighed 20 or 30 pounds, they moved it to a table in the back and made short trips back and forth to grab the final items.

Each basket gets a handmade quilt stitched with love by Jane Bender. The frozen turkey and refrigerated pies went in right before loading so they wouldn’t thaw out.

Then a few designated members took their cars, filled to the brim with the baskets, and trekked over to the schools.

By then the word had spread and some of the parents that were

selected were already waiting with hugs for the volunteers and smiling faces.

Black said while they have nothing to do with who is selected and whether or not they actually meet the families they’re helping out, she fondly remembers her years as a principal bringing the gifts to the families of her students.

“I used to get to see it firsthand by being there at the school,” Black said. “The people that receive it, well, they’re always so pleased. It’s just a blessing. We try really hard to provide everything they would need for a Thanksgiving meal, but then there’s a lot of other things, too. We realized that these families could benefit from more than just stuff for that one day, so we really just push ourselves to fill the baskets to the brim.”

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

STROLL ALONG PLANT CITY’S ART BOX TOUR If you’re a fan of art, downtown Plant City is the perfect spot for your next afternoon adventure. There are eight new artworks scattered throughout downtown.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

If you go for a stroll or drive through downtown Plant City, take a moment to look for the standing art pieces at a variety of intersections.

Thanks to a collaboration between the City of Plant City, MAKE Plant City and Plant City Main Street, downtown has an extra splash of color. Several utility boxes throughout the city were transformed with vibrant art and more than 100 people gathered Sunday for a walking tour to take in each piece.

“Fred Baxter with traffic came to me with the idea and showed me the wrap technology that’s out there to essentially wrap our utility boxes in these pieces of art,” City Manager Bill McDaniel said. “I saw a great opportunity to work with Main Street and MAKE to find the artists, get the appropriate artwork and then get these wraps in place. It just adds something special to our downtown. I’m overwhelmed by how successful this really is and what a great addition it is to our downtown.”

In the spring, the city reached out to MAKE and Main Street to begin this one-of-a-kind partnership. They held an open call

and received 44 submissions from artists who wished to have their work considered for the project.

There could only be eight winners and the group wanted to make sure artwork that was unique, diverse and enjoyable for the entire community was prioritized for the final decision. They then reached out to 39 different local organizations to acquire their input on the submissions.

Not all responded, but enough input came in to help narrow it down to the top tier of submissions.

“Once we had the winners, we tried to be thoughtful about the details,” Arley Smude, co-founder of MAKE Plant City, said. “How should the art face based on foot and car traffic flow? Which piece is best for each box location? Joclyn’s ‘Big Cypress’ felt right near the shady oak of Baker and Collins Street. The colorful llamas should live next to the Methodist Church playground for the kids to enjoy. Jessie’s giant squid clearly belonged by Linda’s Crab Shack.

‘Señorita Fresa’ at Collins and MLK welcomes people to downtown and is a small ode to the porter in John Briggs’ mural that once did the same across the street.”

On Sunday afternoon, the community was invited to tour the city with city leaders, MAKE and Main Street members and the artists who were selected for

the project. At each location, the individual artists took a moment to share their process or inspiration behind the piece. Some even went into a little detail on how they drew the artwork. McDaniel said hearing about the skill it took to design some of the artwork was “fascinating.”

“A couple of the artists said they did it on their iPads,” McDaniel said. “I joked to the person next to me that they could give us an iPad and in six years I couldn’t have drawn two straight lines. It was very interesting to hear about the process and the response from the crowd was just amazing.

Everyone seemed to be having a good time.”

Mayor Rick Lott and his wife Di Lott, Commissioner Mike Sparkman and his wife Diane Sparkman and Commissioner Bill Dodson joined McDaniel on the tour. They went all over the city and McDaniel said it was evident everyone had a blast because the approximately 100 attendees stayed animated and with the group all afternoon.

McDaniel said the city contracted with a vendor to create the wraps and a company to install them.

He wanted experts to handle their creation because in his mind, the artists worked hard to create masterpieces specifically for downtown Plant City

and deserved to have the highest sunflowers or the stunning train quality material and the utmost in ‘Henry Plant and His Railroad?’ care put toward bringing their On a high level we hope the projcreations to life. ect will grow the arts, culture and It was a pet project of McDan- maker scene of Plant City, along iel’s and he said he continues to be with making our public space pleasantly surprised at how well more attractive and fun. It’s an the community is responding to incremental step toward our the additions. downtown being the social and It seems to be doing exactly creative place it has the potenwhat he had hoped it would, and tial to be. We are lucky to have an as people grow more familiar with amazing downtown, but to make the boxes he believes the city will it better we need people there see walkers taking the tour them- — walking, socializing, eating, selves for quite some time. shopping. We hope the art boxes “Day to day, we hope it will will be a small catalyst for that.”

Courtesy of MAKE Plant City give people passing by little jolts of joy,” Smude said. “How can During the tour the artists shared you not smile when you see giant stories of their work with the crowd.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

ART BOX TOUR

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

|

Courtesy of MAKE Plant City

Six of the featured artists participated in the tour.

SEE MAP FOR LOCATIONS 1. From the Depths by Jessie Frier located at Reynolds & Palmer Street 2. Henry Plant and His Railroad by Michael Fied located at Reynolds & Collins Street 3. Big Cypress by Joclyn Emerson located at Baker & Collins Street 4. Sunflowers on Purple by Grace Sellers located at Baker & Wheeler Street 5. Llama Love by NiYah Love located at Reynolds & Wheeler Street 6. Frangipani Reimagined by Rob R. Yoho Jr. located at Evers & Reynolds Street 7. Plant City, Home Sweet Home by Josh “Bump” Galletta located at MLK & Wheeler Street 8. Senorita Fresa by Roseliza Nheik located at MLK & Collins Street

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DIVORCE | WILLS | EVICTIONS Starting at $65 BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

“That has been our concentration,” McDaniel said. “We want to make sure they’re in place and they’re in good shape so children will have safe and easy routes on their walk to school. Then whenever I’m walking around town, like I was Sunday for the Art Box Tour, I’m always looking at the sidewalks and figuring out where there’s a need for us to step in and do some repairs.”

The city plans to put new six-inch thick and five-foot wide sidewalks in four general locations. The first will be on West Alsobrook Street from west of South Empire Street to Gibbs Street. The second is on West Bates Street from west of South Empire Street to Gibbs Street. The third is along Woodlawn Avenue from Alexander Street to North Franklin Street. The final sidewalk will run on north Barnes Street from English Street to West Cherry Street.

Originally, the city anticipated full funding of the project would be available through a CDBG grant from the Hillsborough County Affordable Housing Services Department. However, the expanse of the project ended up going over the money available via the grant. Commissioners agreed Monday night to approve supplemental funding for the project.

On Oct. 8, the city advertised the project and began to receive bids from construction companies. Blacktip Services was the lowest responsive and responsible bid, coming in at $275,225.34. The majority of that was covered in the CDBG grant, but commissioners approved allocating the remaining $25,337 toward the project so all could be wrapped up this year rather than having to push some of the work off until next year.

“We didn’t want to delay getting this work done,” McDaniel said. “It needed repaired and we are fortunate enough to have the money available to make it happen. That was, I think, the mindset all of us had. It needs to be done, we can do it, so we might as well do it now rather than wait.”

Mayor Rick Lott took a moment following the vote Monday night to highlight the project for the audience at City Hall. He said the project reflects the attitude the city has toward improving all areas of town and making sure Plant City is a great place to “work, play and live.”

“Not only are our roads getting paved, our sidewalks are, too,” Lott said. “We’re doing work all over the city to make it the best it can be.”

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY BRINGS LOADS OF DEALS TO DOWNTOWN If you’re planning to dive into your holiday shopping this weekend, look no further than downtown Plant City for a plethora of deals and some festive games.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Rather than hitting the mall early Friday morning to fight the crowds or setting your alarm for midnight to scour the internet in search of Cyber Monday deals, Plant City businesses are inviting shoppers to try a more relaxed and far more fun experience.

Small Business Saturday is celebrated nationwide on Nov. 30. To spice up the event and bring shoppers downtown, 25 businesses are offering one-of-a-kind deals on the big day and will also participate in a massive guessing game that comes with epic prizes.

Each participating store will have a jar on display. Inside will be numerous items. At Brick City Bricks, it will be filled with LEGO pieces. At Krazy Kup, there will be a jar full of coffee beans. Beside the jar is a box, a paper and a pen.

The goal is that while you shop around, you will take a moment to eye a jar and make a guess on how many items are held within.

It’s as much a game of skill as it is a game of chance. At the end of the day, each business will comb through its responses and select

the guess that was either spot on or closest to the right number.

Many of the businesses are offering a prize for their individual first-place guesser. From there, the winners are sent to a large pot where one will be selected as the Grand Prize winner.

The winner will be announced on the Plant City Main Street social media as well as on some of the businesses’s accounts. The lucky winner will walk away with a basket filled with approximately $1,000 worth of goodies donated by the 25 participating businesses. Each business gave either merchandise or gift cards, and in some instances the businesses gave both.

“The more stores you go to, the better your odds are,” Greg Williams, owner of Brick City Bricks, said. “Each store is also having specials. You can check out the websites and social medias of some of those individual stores to see what the specials are or you can just walk in and find out for yourself. A few our businesses have even agreed to stay open later to make sure everyone has the opportunity to find the perfect gift. The businesses downtown are partnering with Main Street

to make this a massive day of fun for everyone.”

Small Business Saturday was created 10 years ago in hopes it would encourage shoppers to give their dollar to a local business rather than throw it at a massive corporation where the majority of the money ends up lining the pockets of the higher ups rather than trickling down toward its many employees.

According to Plant City Main Street, “for every $100 spent at locally-owned small businesses, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. At bigger national chains, only $43 stays in the community.”

Plant City is evolving and Williams said the hope is this event gets people downtown all day long. You can eat breakfast at Brick House Cafe and then walk to Tub Treats or The State Theater or Tennessee Jane and shop for a few hours before popping over to Mr. Sebas or Krazy Kup or The Kandy Shoppe for a quick snack. Then hit a few more stores and pick up one-of-a-kind gifts that you simply can’t purchase online or in major stores. For lunch, you can head to The Cor-

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.

MOLLY, EMMY AND MAX: It’s hard to find a more iconic trio than Molly, Emmy and Max. These furry siblings don’t care if their best friend is a cat or a dog as long as they give good snuggles and will share the comforter.

ONLINE

Follow us on social media: @PCObserver on Instagram, @PlantObserver on Twitter and Plant City Observer on Facebook.

ner Store or The Whistle Stop and then you can spend a few more hours at Aromatic Harmony or Blue Thumb or Inspire Quilting & Sewing. As the sun sets it’s the perfect opportunity to head to Norma’s or Linda’s Crab Shack for dinner and then you can go home with a trunk filled with packages knowing you’ll have items under the tree that will bring joy to the entire family while also helping our local business owners provide happy holidays for their own loved ones.

“This idea really is all about promoting businesses and promoting downtown,” Williams said. “The busier downtown is the better it will be for all of us that have our businesses in this area. We love our downtown, we love our community, that’s why all of us are here. So you know the hope is that if people get down here and see all of the things we have going on they’ll realize ‘Hey, downtown is really a cool place to hang out and spend the day’ and then they’ll find places they’ll want to come back to time and time again.”

Participating businesses: Brick City Bricks Tub Treats Krazy Kup Aromatic Harmony Blue Thumb All A Bloom Linda’s Crab Shack I Hate My Trainer Norma’s Mr. Sebas Carlson Gracie The Whistle Stop Tennessee Jane The Corner Store Aim Lighting Valerie’s Attic Rocking Horse The Mercantile Generation Fun The State Theater Dark Horse Music Roots Tap Room Depot Antiques The Kandy Shoppe Inspire Quilting & Sewing

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

SAN CLEMENTE VILLAS TURNS 10 IT’S READ EVERYWHERE Did you take the Observer with you on vacation? Send your pictures to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com to be featured.

For the past 10 years, senior citizens have had the opportunity to live where they worship. Last week the San Clemente Villas held a special ceremony in honor of its 10th birthday.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

at San Clemente as well as the residents, it was evident there was no lack of love coming from the cheerful home.

Sister Pamela Nolan, director of operations, also took a moment to reflect on the welcoming home they’ve created over the past 10 years and said she’s looking forward to seeing where the next 10 will take them.

When you drive by Saint Clement Catholic Church, your eyes are immediately drawn to the large building nestled in its corner.

Ten years ago, members of the church came together to help create a nondenominational, smoke-free rental community with 68 units on their property in hopes it would act as a blessing for lowincome seniors.

The community is owned and operated

by St. Clement Housing, Inc., a nonprofit corporation that operates under the guidance of HUD. During a special ceremony on Nov. 21, the residents opened their arms to the community for an afternoon of fun and well wishes.

Father Raphael Martos provided the group with a prayer of blessings and Father Pedro Zapata prayed a special blessing for the building. Deacon Felix Mejia prayed a message of love over the entire group and then Pastor Mike Fredette prayed for the food. Table by table, the residents then lined up for a massive buffet of goodies that kept the festivities going for hours.

Breanne Willaims The theme of the day was simple: love.

But in the speeches from some of the staff Tracey Brown and Sister Pamela Nolan.

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NEW YORK CITY: The Siebenthal family visited New York City and New England in September and posed for a photo with the Observer at the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

BREWINGTONS NAMED 2019 CHRISTMAS PARADE GRAND MARSHALS

Facebook

David and Diane Brewington are proud of their family’s connection to Plant City.

File photo

The Plant City Christmas Parade is one of the area’s most popular holiday events.

David and Diane Brewington will lead the parade on Dec. 6.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

David and Diane Brewington have spent decades giving back to Plant City, and now they’re to be honored with the best seats in the house for the annual Plant City Christmas Parade.

The Brewingtons were tapped to lead the 2019 parade as its Grand Marshals and, though they couldn’t believe it at first, they’re “excited and honored” the parade board considered them for the gig.

“We’re excited about it and looking forward to it,” David Brewington said.

Known for their namesake towing company, Brewington’s Towing & Recovery, the Brewingtons are both proud to call them-

selves Plant City lifers. They were born and raised here, met here and started a family that continues to call Plant City home to this day. Ever grateful for their upbringing, the couple has never been shy about working to serve the strawberry town.

The Brewingtons have volunteered with the Florida Strawberry Festival for many years, helping out on the entertainment side. David Brewington has been involved for more than 30 years and currently manages transportation and other services for entertainers and their guests. Diane Brewington has volunteered for 20 years and has been in her role with the entertainers’ hospitality committee for the last eight.

They’re also heavily involved with the Elks Lodge, spent time with the Jaycees when they were around (and worked with imme-

diate past Grand Marshal Frank LaBarbera) and have been involved with the Plant City Dolphins and Plant City Little League organizations. Diane Brewington joined the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation board last year and has enjoyed her time helping the hospital’s fundraising arm.

“We’re very proud of Plant City,” Diane Brewington said. “We would do anything anybody asks us to do to keep our community as it is.”

David and Diane Brewington recently celebrated their 41st wedding anniversary on Nov. 11 and are quick to show love for their family, which has long helped them run the towing company to the point where David Brewington considers it “a blessing I’ll never be able to repay them for.”

21 Annual Lights of Love st

Give the Gift of Love Join Us for Our Tree Lighting Ceremony

Thursday, December 5 | 5:30–8pm McCall Park, Downtown Plant City

Photos with Santa at the Dark Horse Music Store (adjacent to the festivities on Drane Street) Music presented by the First Baptist Church of Plant City (Amplify and the Kids Worship Choir) Lighting of the Lights of Love Tree presented by The City of Plant City Give the gift of love this holiday season by donating a tree light in memory or in honor of someone special. All donations are tax deductible and will benefit the many community services provided by South Florida Baptist Hospital.

For more information, sponsorship opportunities or to purchase a light ($25–$100): (813) 757-8478 | SFBHFoundation.org

19-956712-1119

“I’m real thankful, real fortunate I’ve got the family that I’ve got,” he said. “I couldn’t ask for life to be any better.”

IF YOU GO The 2019 parade kicks off at 7 p.m. Dec. 6 and marches from the intersection of Collins and Alsobrook streets down to the courthouse on Reynolds Street.

Lights of Love Major Sponsors Publix Super Markets Charities, Inc. Terry and Peggy Crum Thompson Hartford Foundation Photos with Santa Sponsor Jack and Carolyn McMullen Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen Sponsor Susan L. Doan Top Star Sponsors City of Plant City First Baptist Church Plant City Karen and Wade Kerr Bill and Diane Morrow Verner Foundation, Inc. (John and Sally Verner) Patron Sponsors Wendy Brown Mary Ann Hall Steve and Krista Howard Jarrett-Scott Ford Sylvia Knox Dale and Sheila Lewis Dean and Nancy Nourie Paul’s Hand Lettering Bruce and Margaret Rodwell Union Contractors Association Al and Norma Whitaker Supporting Sponsors Robert and Sheila Ambrose Barbara Bowden Bart and Jana Butler Coleman and Sue Davis Edwards Platt and Meyer, PA Brenda J. Futch Hillsboro Bank Larry and Kim Johnson Dub and Pec McGinnes Lawrence E. Mills Plant City Rotary Club (Noon) Don Walden

NOVEMBER 27, 2019

SPORTS Quick Hits AREA PARKS HOSTING EVENTS

Next weekend, in addition to the United Youth Football League national championships starting up, there’s one other tournament coming to Plant City.

Pro-Am 50 Softball, a league for players age 50 and up, is hosting a tournament on Dec. 7 and 8 at the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex. Games start between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. both days. If you can’t make it out to the Four-Plex to watch the games live, the league will have full game videos available on its YouTube channel, youtube.com/channel/UCgOr9OZemaA_ uBFNC3HDTCQ.

Johni Broome is one of the Plant City area’s most talented hoopers.

See Page 13

DOLPHINS TO TRY THEIR HAND AT TURKEY BOWL

The Plant City Dolphins’ inaugural Strawberry Jam Turkey Bowl comes to the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex this week.

SIGN UP FOR FISHING, TRY OUT FOR FOOTBALL Registration for the annual Fall Youth Fishing Derby is now open.

The Fall Youth Fishing Derby comes back to the pond behind Plant City Stadium and the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex bright and early Dec. 7. The annual free event is for anglers age 5-15 and runs from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Participants are asked to bring their own fishing equipment, bait and buckets for the catch-andrelease event, though past winners have often walked away with brand new gear to go with their trophies.

You can pre-register online at plantcitygov.com or at the PCRPD office by Dec. 5, or sign up on-site from 7:30 to 8:15 a.m. on derby day. For more information, contact program manager Deborah Haldane at dhaldane@plantcitygov.com or at 813659-4255.

Pro-Active Sports Academe will host tryouts for its 7-on-7 football team on Saturday and Sunday for athletes in grades 6-12.

Saturday’s tryouts will be held at the track at Marshall Middle School, 18 S. Maryland Ave., from 12-2 p.m. Sunday’s tryouts will be held at Evans Park, 1104 N. Kingsway Road, Seffner, from 2-4 p.m. The tryout fee is $25 per athlete and coach Gerold Dickens requests that all interested athletes “bring cleats and a mind to work.”

For more information about the tryouts or Pro-Active Sports Academe, call Dickens at 813-770-8367 or follow him on Twitter at @PA_AllDay1.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Traveling to compete in Turkey Bowls around the country has been a Plant City Dolphins staple for around 12 years. This year, though, the organization decided it was time to make a move it’s considered for a few years.

The Dolphins are still going to play in a Turkey Bowl this week, but it’ll be their own.

“We thought it would be a great fundraiser for the PCD organization,” director Chad Eldridge said. “Since we’ve been to so many, we’ve seen what works well and what doesn’t, and we felt that with our strong board we’d be able to put one on and be successful.”

The inaugural Strawberry Jam Turkey Bowl will draw more than 30 teams from around Florida and even as far as Texas to Plant City for an action-packed weekend.

It’s all unlimited weight classes with con-

tact age groups of 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U and 14U, plus a 6U flag football division. Brackets will be completed later this week after a blind draw and should be viewable online

by Friday morning.

Though there will be plenty of good football to see throughout all age groups, the 6U flag division is especially worth watching: the West Orange Bobcats, coached by NFL legend Devin Hester, are playing in the tournament. Featuring Hester’s son Drayton, whose athleticism helped him go viral this summer, the team has issued an open challenge to any squad that thinks it’s good enough to hand “the best 6U flag team in the nation” its first loss in three years.

All-star teams were not eligible for the tournament, so every team participating will use their regular-season rosters exactly as they were without any additions. That means area “Dol-fans” will get to see the exact same Mighty Mite, Pee Wee, Midget and Junior Varsity teams that won three TCYFCC Superbowl championships on Nov. 16.

The tournament runs from Friday through Sunday at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2602 E. Cherry St. Tickets can be bought online at strawberryjamturkeybowl.com or at the gate. Funds raised by the tournament will benefit the PCD program to help cover the costs of new equipment, facility maintenance and other team expenses.

Local football fans should also keep an eye out for the return of the UYFL national championship tournament in early December. That one, which pulls in hundreds of teams from all over the nation, will take over Ellis-Methvin Park from Dec. 8-14.

The Dolphins will put all four Strawberry Jam Turkey Bowl teams in that tournament.

The Varsity team has been repurposed into an all-star group by coach Lloyd Kemp and is getting ready to play in the UYFL’s 14U All-Star bracket.

For more information about that tournament and to buy tickets, visit unitedyfl. com/championships.

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

THINGS FOR THIS ‘SPORTS GUY’ TO BE THANKFUL FOR

A lot of good things happened this year and are worth looking back on.

Before I get started, I know I’ve already covered something I’m thankful for in the Around Town section. That one just happens to be my favorite answer, especially now that Christian McCaffrey just helped me take down Sarah Holt’s first-place team in fantasy football this week — a week where I forgot to set my lineup and had three starters in a bye week, plus Chris

Godwin and his 26.27 points on my bench, but still got the “W.” On a more serious note, 2019 hasn’t been terrible. I could think of a lot of things that happened this year and were good. Why stop with Around Town? Here’s what I’ve been grateful for this year.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

SPONSORED BY SPORT CLIPS

Johni Broome

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND? Know someone who deserves an Athlete of the Week feature? Email Justin Kline at JKline@plantcityobserver.com by the Friday before the next issue.

One of the key cogs in the Tampa Catholic boys basketball machine hails from right here in Plant City. Senior forward Johni Broome, who recently committed to Morehead State, is expected to play a major role with this year’s senior-heavy Crusaders squad as it attempts to at least get back to the FHSAA 5A state Final Four. Broome averaged a double-double (15.8 points and 10.5 rebounds per game) and also led the Crusaders with 2.5 blocks per game in the 2018-19 season.

ers well. I like the campus. But when I talk with the coaches it’s not just about basketball. It’s about the family, my grades… they talk to me every week.

Your family’s got a pretty strong football background, but you’re heavily invested in hoops. What is it about basketball that you fell in love with?

I started playing at the YMCA when I was 9 and after that first year, I felt like I was…

I felt like it fit me. I just kept playing, kept enjoying it.

What are your goals for this season?

What other sports do you play?

My number one goal is to win a state championship. I’m trying to get to 1,000 points this year. I’m trying to average about 20 points and 15 rebounds per game.

I played baseball for four years and played football, too.

Your numbers have blown up since you started at Tampa Catholic. Where do you think your game’s improved the most since you started playing high school varsity basketball?

My favorite player right now is James Harden. He’s a lefty, he’s not the fastest like I am or the most athletic, but he’s a crafty player that can get the job done every night.

I feel like my IQ improved. I see the floor better and that allows me to do more things. I’ve got a better feel for rebounding and shooting. It almost feels like it comes naturally now, like I can play under control calm.

What do you plan to major in when you get to college?

You all got to the Final Four last year.

What lessons did you learn from that that you’re taking with you into this upcoming season?

What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever done on a basketball court?

We’ve got to stay together. We didn’t really play our best in that game, we kind of let life get to us a little bit. I feel like this year, we’ll come back prepared and everybody will be ready for the game and to play together.

How do you get hyped for a game?

What would you say you bring to the table as a player and a teammate?

What’s the best advice any coach has given you?

I feel like I’m a leader on the court, helping my teammates out when they need it. I try and make the right play, whether that’s scoring or making an extra pass or getting a big-time rebound. I’m just trying to help my team out as best as I can.

It’s “we” and not “me.” Play as a team, not selfishly.

What was it about Morehead State that made you want to commit to that program over others that were interested in you?

The big thing was communication. I feel like they really showed me that they cared.

Not that other schools didn’t, but on the visit I got along with the coaches and play-

Which NBA or college players have you looked up to?

Business and sports management. I want to go to the NBA, but a degree is a great thing to have in case that doesn’t work.

Dunk on somebody.

I listen to calm music when I put my uniform on, but then I listen to hype songs when I’m stretching out before the game.

Then I go out and play.

Photo courtesy of John Broome

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JUSTIN KLINE

THINGS FOR THIS ‘SPORTS GUY’ TO BE THANKFUL FOR

A lot of good things happened this year and are worth looking back on.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

To every source that’s gotten back to me, especially before deadline, thank you.

Journalists are, by nature, not the easiest people to work with and we’re not entirely faultless ourselves. I’ve written some pretty cool stories this year and none were possible without your help.

I got to catch another high school state championship game this year. That alone would be cool, but it was even better that we got an extremely rare baseball matchup with two schools just a stone’s throw from each other going at it for the state championship. It was an excellent, emotional game and I’m hoping lightning strikes twice and we get another all-local matchup, whether that’s another Plant City-Strawberry Crest thing or you add Durant somewhere in the mix.

Plant City’s changing and I think a lot of it’s been positive, at least in terms of this year. There’s a new energy in town that even my friends who live elsewhere have picked up on. I would say this has probably been the most fun year to live, work and play here in the six years I’ve been around. I’m glad there’s a new energy here and I’m looking forward to seeing how things develop over time.

It’s been a challenging year professionally with just Breanne Williams and

myself writing for the paper. Those of you who have been with us since the beginning or pretty close to that know this is the smallest staff we’ve had, well, ever.

But we keep on trucking no matter what and I’m grateful that folks still put their trust and patience in us and read the paper every week. To add to that, I’m also thankful we still have a strong support system in the Observer and can continue to bring you the news in all walks of life.

On a personal note, some things broke my way this year and others didn’t, but I’m still doing well and so are the people I care about. One thing that stands out right now is that my nephew Emerson was born this past weekend. I’m working on the “cool uncle” thing over time and hope I’ll nail it, but I’m at least glad I’ve got the chance to do so. He’ll probably be a swimmer like his dad but I’m hoping he’ll take up wrestling, too.

Anyway, I hope everyone has a good Thanksgiving and gets through Black Friday unscathed.

Justin Kline is the Sports Editor at the Plant City Observer.

Email: jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

SPORTS SCORES AND MORE BOYS BASKETBALL

DEC. 26

CHEERLEADING

DEC. 3

Durant at Pensacola Catholic Invite through Dec. 28

DEC. 3

Sarasota Riverview at Durant, 8 p.m.

Plant City at Plant, 7 p.m.

Freedom at Strawberry Crest, 6:30 p.m.

DEC. 4 Kathleen at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

DEC. 6 Durant at Riverview, 8 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Sickles, 7 p.m.

DEC. 10 Steinbrenner at Durant, 7 p.m.

Spoto at Plant City, 6:30 p.m.

Armwood at Strawberry Crest, 6:30 p.m.

DEC. 11 Plant City at Newsome, 7 p.m.

DEC. 12

GIRLS BASKETBALL DEC. 3 Sarasota Riverview at Durant, 6:30 p.m.

Plant City at George Jenkins, 7 p.m.

Freedom at Strawberry Crest, 8 p.m.

Durant at King, 6:30 p.m.

DEC. 5 Plant City at Strawberry Crest, 6:30 p.m.

DEC. 7 Plant City at UCA regionals in Tampa, 8 a.m.

DEC. 4

DEC. 10

Spoto at Durant, 7 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Steinbrenner, 6:30 p.m.

DEC. 6 Durant at Riverview, 6:30 p.m.

Lakeland at Plant City, 7 p.m.

DEC. 10 Spoto at Plant City, 8 p.m.

Armwood at Strawberry Crest, 8 p.m.

DEC. 11

Durant at Bayshore Christian Invite, 7:30 p.m.

Durant at Chamberlain, 7 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Jefferson, 7 p.m.

DEC. 13

DEC. 13

Lennard at Durant, 8 p.m.

Armwood at Plant City, 6:30 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Wharton, 7 p.m.

Lennard at Durant, 6:30 p.m.

Armwood at Plant City, 8 p.m.

DEC. 20 Strawberry Crest at Wharton, 7 p.m.

DEC. 11

DEC. 10

DEC. 13

Riverview at Durant, 6 p.m.

Plant City at Bloomingdale, 6 p.m.

Armwood at Strawberry Crest, 6 p.m.

Plant City at King, 8 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Freedom, 8 p.m.

DEC. 13

Wharton at Plant City, 6 p.m.

Plant City at King, 6 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Freedom, 6 p.m.

WRESTLING

DEC. 20

DEC. 6

Wharton at Plant City, 8 p.m.

Plant City at East Bay, 2 p.m.

GIRLS SOCCER

DEC. 7

DEC. 3

Durant, Plant City at Sickles, 6:30 p.m.

Newsome at Durant, 8 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Plant City, 8 p.m.

DEC. 21

DEC. 5

Plant City at Bartow, 8 a.m.

Strawberry Crest at Durant, 8 p.m.

BOYS SOCCER

DEC. 6

DEC. 3

Plant City at Durant, 8 p.m.

Newsome at Durant, 6 p.m.

Strawberry Crest at Plant City, 6 p.m.

DEC. 10

DEC. 5 Strawberry Crest at Durant, 6 p.m.

Riverview at Durant, 8 p.m.

Plant City at Bloomingdale, 8 p.m.

Armwood at Strawberry Crest, 8 p.m.

DEC. 20

Durant at Mulberry Invitational Plant City at East Bay, 9 a.m.

Strawberry Crest at Ben Richards IBT (Leto), 9:30 a.m.

DEC. 12 Plant City at Durant, 7 p.m.

DEC. 13 Strawberry Crest at Freedom 6-way through Dec. 14 DEC. 20 Durant at Riverview 10-way through Dec. 21 Strawberry Crest at Key West Invite through Dec. 21

DEC. 6 Plant City at Durant, 6 p.m.

CAMERON FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

287687-1

SPORTS SCORES

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110 W. Reynolds Street | Suite 109, Plant City, FL 33563 michael@cameronfm.com | CAMERONFM.COM Securities Offered Through LPL Financial

Members FINRA/SIPC

Michael S.Cameron

Financial Advisor

813.759.8485

PlantCityObserver.com

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

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USSSA BASEBALL TOURNEY IN PLANT CITY

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Plant City parks hosted Florida USSSA Baseball tournament action over the weekend.

The Turkey Shootout featured 107 teams in 13 agegrouped divisions for players age 9-14. Games were played on Nov. 23 and 24 with start times from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Ellis-Methvin Park, Mike Sansone Park and the MLK rec complex.

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR We asked: What are you thankful for?

“I am thankful for my family and my faith.”

“My mom and my dogs.”

— Sarah Holt

— Karen Berry

“All the points Christian McCaffrey’s scored for my fantasy football team. I’m not gonna place first this year, but he hasn’t given up on me and that means something.”

— Justin Kline

“I’m thankful for the staggering amount of coffee I will consume on Thanksgiving day “The humans give me snacks to get through the commute to all the time and I never go hungry.” — Karah my sister’s and back.”

— Breanne Williams

OMG IT’S WEDNESDAY!

SOUTHERN HOMES presents

The I M P E R I AL SY M P H O N Y O R C H E S T R A

PLANT CITY FARM AND FLEA MARKET Highway 39 North at Sam Allen Road—1 mi. N. of I-4 Exit 21

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

OP EN

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

Bobbie E. Baker

David D. Campbell, 75, of Tampa, born on June 21, 1944 in Cincinnati, Ohio, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 19, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Bobbie E. Baker, 96, of Plant City, born in Biggs Springs, Tennessee on Jan. 23, 1923, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 23, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

J. Guadalupe Bueno Frank ‘Wick’ J. Guadalupe Bueno, 72, of Dover, Mallalieu III entered into eternal rest on November 24, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Taking care of each other is what

Frank “Wick” Mallalieu III, 75, of Plant City, passed away on Nov. 22, 2019.

The family will receive friends Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Eastside Baptist Church 1318 E. Calhoun St., Plant City FL 33563.

Funeral services will follow at 11:00WE’ a.m. dedicated to helping families create a RE P RO UD TO S E RV E our community Daniel we’re ‘Danny’ Online condolences may care since 1896. unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate Lemleycelebrates Sr. the life it represents.

As for yourthe Dignity Memorial professionals, be left family at www. haught.care.> 100% Service Guarantee Daniel> “Danny” Sr., 59, NationalLemley Plan Transferability born on Dec. 1959 in Birming> 2, The Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance ham, Alabama, went to be with the Lord on Nov. 19, 2019.

Condolences and fond memoProudly supportingries themay PlantbeCity Strawberry Festival. offered at www.

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM wellsmemorial.com.

community

is all about.

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17

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

OBITUARIES

David D. Campbell

|

Edmarie Eliane Taking care of Contreras each other is whatTaking care of R is what community each other is all about. community is all about.

Trevagrey M. Sgro ®

Henry Pardo

Marie Etta Rogers

Henry Pardo, 79, of Plant City, born in Tampa on Sept. 28, 1940, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 21, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Marie Etta Rogers, 81, of Plant City, born in Indianapolis, Indiana on Oct. 1, 1938, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 23, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Edmarie Eliane Contreras passed away on Nov. 24, 2019.

The family will receive friends Monday, Dec. 2, 2019 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563.

Funeral will be held we’re dedicated to helping families WELLSMEMORIAL.COM create a WE’R E services PR OU D TO SERVE our community unique meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate 1896. M. Tuesday, December 3, 2019 care since Trevagrey Sgro,and age 80, of Plant celebrates life it represents.

As your Dignity Memorial professionals, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Clement City, passed away onthe Sunday we’re dedicated to helping families create a WE ’ RE P RO UD TO S E RV E our community James C. Holloway Catholic Church, North November 2019.

Trevagrey > 100%1104 Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability unique and meaningful memorial that trul with24, personal, compassionate care since 1896.& event Wellswas MeMorial Center Alexander Street, Plant City born September 12, 1939.

James Holloway, of Plant Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement celebrates 76, the life it represents.

As your Dignity Memorial professionals, PlanTC. CiTy Florida 33563.

Fond memories and expressions City, passed away Plan on Tuesday, No> 100% Service Guarantee > National Transferability 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Online condolences may of sympathy may be shared atTravel Assistance vember 19, 2019. was born > TheJames Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement be left for the family at www. www.WellsMemorial.com for the January 4, 1943.

Proudly supporting thefamily.

Plant City Strawberry1Festival.

M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 10/27/15 haught.care.

Sgro Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberryfor Festival. www.WellsMemorial.com the Holloway family.

HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM WELLSMEMORIAL.COM ®

®

Adrianna Capri Johnson Adrianna Capri Johnson, 20, of Birmingham, Alabama, born on Dec. 1, 1998, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 17, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Paul West

Paul West, 91, of Lorida, born on July 1, 1928 in Keysville, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 22, 2019.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

R

R

Florist Wells MeMorial & event Center

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

WELLSMEMORIAL.COM

PlanT CiTy

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Wells MeMorial & event Center

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

PlanT CiTy

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com 10/27/15 10:42 AM

M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

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ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

Historic Downtown 287464-1

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

10/2

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David E. Johnson David E. Johnson was born on April 27, 1943 in New Brunswick, NJ and died on November 15, 2019. His career was in publishing that originated in Plant City and retired in Venice. David was a Disabled Veteran of the U.S. Navy, a retired Presidential Exalted Ruler of the Elks Lodge in Plant City, a licensed boat captain who was passionate about sailing and a certified scuba diver. He enjoyed riding Harleys, joking with people, playing the bagpipes and celebrating with family and friends. Although Bradenton is where David came to pass, he found true peace in Jamestown, New York. He is survived by his sister Joy, daughters Marnie and Amber, and grandchildren Gabriella and J.P. David’s celebration of life will be held December 8 at Elks Lodge #1511 in Bradenton from 2-5pm.

Taking care of ach other is what

community

is all about.

BEST BET SATURDAY, NOV. 30 CHRISTMAS LANE

6 to 10 p.m. Experience the magic of Christmas Lane, a winter wonderland extravaganza at the Florida Strawberry Festival Charlie Grimes Family Agriculture Center, 2508 W. Oak Ave. It features 1.5 million sparkling lights, decorated trees 40 feet tall, a Christmas Castle, 10-foot-tall toy soldiers, larger-than-life reindeer, live entertainment, photos with Santa, Living Nativities with real animals and a fun, activity-filled KidZone with face painting, ornaments, letters to Santa and a LEGO building station. Exciting carnival rides and food will be available for purchase. Christmas Lane runs Thursdays through Sundays Nov. 29-Dec. 22 and from 6-10 p.m. Dec. 23 and 24. Admission: $5 + tax 14 and up, $3 + tax 4--12, under 4, free. Tickets available online at www.christmaslane.com. Ride tickets: $3 each or unlimited ride armband $15. Free parking.

THURSDAY, NOV. 28 FREE THANKSGIVING DINNER

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Plant City High School’s Class of 1980 is hosting a free Thanksgiving Day Dinner at Marie B. Ellis Park, 601 E. Laura St. All are invited to attend.

PLANT CITY TOASTMASTERS 7:30 to 9 a.m. Plant City Toastmasters is held every Thursday.

Guests are always welcome to come join the free meeting at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St.

MAHJONG CLASS

2 to 4 p.m. Every Thursday join Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., for its Mahjong Class. Whether you’re a first-time player or a seasoned expert, there’s plenty of Mahjong fun at the library.

FRIDAY, NOV. 29 DUPLICATE BRIDGE

1 p.m. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 302 Carey St., is now hosting a weekly Duplicate Bridge we’re dedicated to helping families createthe a most widely used E our community game, and meaningful memorial that trulyof contract bridge in nate care since 1896. variation Violet Rose unique Hoernlein, 89, of Plant celebrates the life it represents. professionals, club and tournament play. ConCity, passed away on Friday Noe Guarantee > National Plan Transferability tact Walt Arnold at 813-752-1602 vember 22, 2019. Violet was born Travel Assistance > 1929.

The Compassion Helpline® for more information.

December 21, Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at DATE NIGHT DANCE www.WellsMemorial.com for the supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. CLASSES Hornlein family.

7:30 to 9 p.m. Come on out to the Stardust Ballroom for a perfect date night filled with dancing.

Spend the evening holding your loved one and learning cool WELLSMEMORIAL.COM dance moves. These classes are recommended for all beginning dancers and act as a four week Sue Nelle Bosley ells MeMorial & we’re event Center dedicated to helping families create a Each week is $20 per E our community program.

PlanT CiTy unique age and meaningful memorial that truly nate care since couple and will cost $80 for the Sue1896.

Nelle Bosley, 75, of Plant celebrates life it represents. professionals, full four-week session. Register at City, passed away onthe Friday No813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com the door. All you need to bring is vember 22, 2019. Sue born e Guarantee > National Planwas Transferability Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® some clean dancing shoes to slip June 18, 1944.

10/27/15 10:42 AM Fond memories and expressions on once you cross the door. Call Pamela at 218-256-1873 for more of sympathy may be shared at Classes are limited www.WellsMemorial.com for the supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. information. to 50 people.

Bosley family.

Violet Rose Hoernlein

®

Taking care of R ach other is what

community

is all about.

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R

SATURDAY, NOV. 30 WELLSMEMORIAL.COM

PlantCityObserver.com

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

OBITUARIES

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

YOUR CALENDAR

18

HOLIDAYS ON THE FARM

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road,

is bringing a winter wonderland to Plant City. Join them for Holidays on the Farm select Saturdays in November and December, including Nov. 23, Nov. 30, Dec. 7 Dec. 14 and Dec. 21. Admission is $5 per person and children ages 10 years old and under will be free. Admission includes hayride and kids activities. Get tickets at http://keelfarms.com/events/ holidays-on-the-farm/. The event will feature Santa, u-picks, hayrides, vendors, farm animals, poinsettia sales, bounce houses and a life-size snow globe.

PLANT CITY SOCIAL DANCE

6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Come on out to the Strawberry Square Dance Center for a night of social dancing. There is a 3,000 square-foot floating wood floor to dance on.

Social dancing includes slow dances, waltzes, line dances, chacha and rumbas, two-step and country slow, swing, free style and some Latin dances. A singles table will be set up. Admission is $6.

LIP SYNC BATTLE

8 to 10 p.m. Broadway makes its way to Plant City with a special musical-themed Lip Sync Battle at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Give the crowd your best Tony Award-winning performance and you can win a portion of $350+ in cash and prizes.

Your choice of song, any and all musicals (rated PG) qualify.

Solo or groups (max 3 in group).

Costumes highly recommended.

There is a $5 entry fee per contestant (can be paid the night of performance). Support the contestants with a $3 donation.

Register to perform using the link: https://forms.gle/ZjCV3LuExCUAkMmZ8.

how to grow them and the many creative ways they can be displayed. These make great gifts for the holidays for friends and loved ones. There will also be a demonstration on how to divide staghorn ferns and attach them to trees. Instructor Kate Preston is a botanist and former curator of ferns, cycads and economic plant collections at the U.S. Botanic Garden in Washington, D.C. Tickets are $30 and include a glass of wine, beer, or cider, a mounting plaque, a staghorn, sphagnum moss and an epiphyte to add to your creation. Reserve your spot today – only 25 openings. Register today at: bit.ly/2PAeHLF.

MONDAY, DEC. 2 PAWS FOR READING WITH TANNER THE THERAPY DOG

5:30 p.m. Children are invited to come on out to Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., to enjoy an evening reading with Tanner the Therapy Dog. Tanner enjoys listening to students read to him on the couch in the children’s area. Reading with Tanner can help children improve reading, communication skills, and build confidence. Tanner is an Australian Shepherd Reading Therapy Dog certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. For children of all ages.

PLANT CITY AREA DEMOCRATIC CLUB

6 p.m. The Plant City Area Democratic Club will meet at the Plant City Community Resource Center, 307 N. Michigan Ave, Plant City, FL 33566 (entering from Baker Street Parking). The guest speaker will be Lynn Gray, Hillsborough County School Board Member D7-Countywide.

SUN, DEC. 1

TUESDAY, DEC. 3

STAGHORN FERN MOUNTING WORKSHOP

SHUFFLEBOARD CLUB

4 to 5:30 p.m. Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road, is hosting a Staghorn Fern Mounting Workshop. Learn how to mount Staghorn Fern Pups and go home with your own personal creation. During the workshop, learn what staghorn ferns are,

9 a.m. Come on out to the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St., each Tuesday to play shuffleboard. You’ll be an expert in no time. The club is hosted by Anita Balch and she can be contacted at 808-722-5821 for more information.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 4 PLANT CITY COMMUNITY LADIES BIBLE STUDY

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This Plant City Community Ladies Bible Study runs the first Wednesday of every month from September until May at the Planteen Recreation Center, 201 N. Dort St. There will be salad, desserts and a covered dish lunch at the study and attendees are invited to bring an item to share. All ladies in the community are welcome. Donations are $1.

KIWANIS CLUB OF PLANT CITY

12 to 1 p.m. The Kiwanis Club of Plant City meets Wednesdays at Buddy Freddy’s Restaurant, 1101 Goldfinch Drive (off Thonotosassa Road). For club information call 813-417-7559.

PAWS FOR READING WITH BONNIE THE THERAPY DOG

4 p.m. Children are invited to come on out to Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., to enjoy an evening reading with Bonnie the Therapy Dog. Bonnie loves to snuggle up with anyone who wants to share a book and rub her back. You can find her on the couch in the children’s area. Reading with Bonnie can help children improve reading, communication skills, and build confidence. Bonnie is a Shih Tzu Reading Therapy Dog certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. For children of all ages.

THURSDAY, DEC. 5 HAVE A HEALTHY PREGNANCY CLASS

6 to 8 p.m. South Florida Baptist Hospital is hosting a Have a Healthy Pregnancy class in the ICU Conference Room, 2-South.

This class covers recommendations for a healthy pregnancy and will be held the first Thursday of every month. Topics will include highlights of each trimester, proper nutrition, how to decrease risks and more. Participants may bring one guest to classes. Please bring a notepad for notes. Snacks will be provided. Registration is free, but required. Call 1-855-2694777.

ells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com 10/27/15 10:42 AM

WHEN SCHOOL’S OUT

UP N G I S AY!

TOD

FUN IS IN!

Bring your kids to the Plant City YMCA on most school holidays* for an exciting, enriching experience while you’re at work or out and about!

PLANT CITY FAMILY YMCA 1507 YMCA Pl., Plant City | 813 757 6677 | tampaymca.org

*See website for available dates.

Universal Crossword Edited by David Steinberg November 26, 2019 PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

I LOVE PLANT CITY

11/26

FORECAST WEDNESDAY, NOV. 27 High: 81 Low: 57 Chance of rain: 10%

THURSDAY, NOV. 28 High: 81 Low: 53 Chance of rain: 10%

Poehler, e.g.

32 Particle such as Iron(III) 33 Place in groups 35 X, to Electra 37 Fight stoppers: Abbr.

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50 Parent in many TV shoutouts 52 Plug part 53 *One may go either way at the ballot box

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

High: 79 Low: 55 Chance of rain: 10%

SATURDAY, NOV. 30 High: 81 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 10%

TOMATOES

Shipping point: Central Florida $9.95-$11.95

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19

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Wednesday, Nov. 27

6:59a

5:32p

Thursday, Nov. 28

7:00a

5:32p

Friday, Nov. 29

7:01a

5:32p

Saturday, Nov. 30

7:01a

5:32p

Sunday, Dec. 1

7:02a

5:32p

Monday, Dec. 2

7:03a

5:32p

Tuesday, Dec. 3

7:04a

5:32p

MOON PHASES

FRIDAY, NOV. 29

Steps Out by Jordan Hildebrandt

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Dec. 25 New

Dec. 11 Full

Dec. 1 First

Dec. 21 Last

RAINFALL Monday, Nov.18

0.00

Tuesday, Nov. 19 0.00 Wednesday, Nov. 20

0.00

Thursday, Nov. 21 0.00 Friday, Nov. 22

0.00

Saturday, Nov. 23 0.00 Sunday, Nov. 24

0.02

YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2019 42.42 in.

2019 0.47 in.

2018 22.56 in.

2018 0.70 in.

WEATHER

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2019

PlantCityObserver.com