Plant City Observer Holiday Season Guide 1012

1FALL PREVIEW 2012

HOLIDAY SEASON GUIDE

From Thanksgiving recipes to Christmas trees, Plant City celebrates the holidays like no other community.

PLANT CITYObserver

2012 HOLIDAY SEASON GUIDE 2

Don’t be taken for a ride ... to Brandon

For a physician referral or more information: (813) 443-2037 or

PlantCityEmergency.org

BC1203600_0912

In an Emergency Choose Your Community Hospital

301 N. Alexander St. • Plant City

We have: • On-site operating rooms • On-site team of physician specialists • On-site Heart Center • On-site Intensive Care Unit

With minimal wait times, our ER is designed to treat your little emergencies as well.*

Support your local community hospitalREDMAN EMERGENCY CENTERREDMAN EMERGENCY CENTER

*Your individual wait time may vary.

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Don’t be taken for a ride ... to Brandon

For a physician referral or more information: (813) 443-2037 or

PlantCityEmergency.org

BC1203600_0912

In an Emergency Choose Your Community Hospital

301 N. Alexander St. • Plant City

We have: • On-site operating rooms • On-site team of physician specialists • On-site Heart Center • On-site Intensive Care Unit

With minimal wait times, our ER is designed to treat your little emergencies as well.*

Support your local community hospitalREDMAN EMERGENCY CENTERREDMAN EMERGENCY CENTER

*Your individual wait time may vary.

For the 10th year, Plant City will host Pig Jam, a sanctioned Kansas City Barbecue Society competition and event, Nov. 17, at the Randy Larson Softball Four-Plex.

Thousands are expected to pack the city for the annual event, which will feature more than 80 teams from throughout the state and the country, including Arkansas, North Dakota and Kansas. These teams represent bar-becue cooks and enthusiasts from the amateur to the professional levels.

Last year’s event attracted more than 15,000 barbecue fans, said Marion Smith, president of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s a great event and a must-see for anyone who likes barbecue,” Smith said.

Plant City hosted the first Pig Jam nine years ago, with about 60 teams and 5,000 people attending.

“The first year, we were amazed,” Smith said. “Anytime you have a first-time event, you never

know how it’s going to turn out. The first year was great, and we’ve been steadily growing every year since.”

Professional teams will compete for cash prizes totaling $16,000, with $3,500 going to the grand champion. A variety of meats will be prepared by competitors, including chicken, ribs and beef brisket. Amateur competitors also will be awarded prizes.

Mark Poppell, vice president of Poppell Insurance in Plant City, and his cooking partner, Fred Williams, have been competing in the event since it began.

“It’s great to have an event like this right here in Plant City,” Poppell said.

“This is a great barbecue competition that has grown a great reputation over the years.”

Pig Jam is an official KCBS compe-tition, requiring professionally trained judges. According to Smith, about 95 judges are expected this year.

Because of this, the event attracts some of the best barbecue cooks and chefs around, including several who have been featured on television shows on the Travel Channel and the Food Network.

“People have a unique opportunity to come out and try barbecue prepared by people they watch on TV,” Poppell said. “They even have the chance to meet some of them after the competi-tion and chat with them. That’s a neat thing to have here in our town.”

In addition to all the mouth-watering eats, Pig Jam will feature plenty of activities for children, including a rock-

climbing wall, moonwalks, sno-cones and more. The event also will feature live music and barbecue-related vendors.

Proceeds from Pig Jam benefit the chamber and its programs.

IF YOU GOWHEN: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 17

WHERE: Randy Larson Softball Four-Plex, 1500 S. Park Road

COST: Admission is free; food prices are comparable to what one would expect at a barbecue restau-rant, ranging from samples to full plates with sides.

PARKING: $5

ENTERTAINMENT: In addition to food offerings from the 80-plus competitors, visitors will enjoy live music and barbecue-related vendors, plus plenty of activities for the kids.

INFORMATION: Visit plantcity.org or call the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, (813) 754-3707

Pig Jam celebrates 10th anniversaryAbout 80 teams from throughout the country will heat up Plant City’s annual barbecue taste fest.

>> GOOD EATS by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

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MacDonald Training Center is committed to provide real work training opportunities for the people with disabilities we serve, while providing affordable and professional services for our business customers.MTC is proud to provide a variety of quality business services to many local and national companies including the following firms:

“Florida’s Turnpike has enjoyed our working relationship with the MacDonald Training Center. SunPass sales have increased every year, and the MacDonald Training Center has continued to deliver high quality and economical solutions for retail packaging that has allowed us to keep up with this growth. The dedication and professionalism of everyone at the MacDonald Training Center speaks volumes about the organization. We look forward to many more years of this mutually beneficial partnership.”

Jennifer Olson, Deputy Executive Director/COOFlorida’s Turnpike Enterprise

(813) 752-6508 | Fax (813) 752-88512902 Cork Road • Plant City

Is there something we can do for you? For more information please contact: Tom Moylan, Project Manager813 870-1300 ext.281 • [email protected]

• Dr. Linda McClintock’s Ageless Medicine• Alligator Bob• Everglades Direct• Florida Turnpike Enterprises and the Florida Department of Transportation

• Hem-Eze• La France• SeaGrass Recovery• Sea World Parks and Entertainment• TimBar Packaging and Display

“The business had grown to the point where it’s more than I can handle, and I needed somebody to do the pick, pack and ship so I can concentrate on the selling. They do a very fine job.”

Robert YoungAlligator Bob CEO

“MTC packaged everything perfectly for us for the Home Shopping Network. HSN has very stringent quality standards and we never had even one return!”

Debra WeisserHem Eze

32012 HOLIDAY SEASON GUIDE


2013Make this the year you get serious about

BiBle study.

evangelical university & seminary105 east Baker st., Plant City

813.645.1903

Classes begin January 7, 2013 for 16 week sessions that provide biblical understanding and preparation for leadership. Adults of all ages meet mornings or evenings for once a week instruction under the guidance of scholarly teachers who make practical application of biblical truth.

Visit our website at www.evangelical-university.org for information on evangelical’s unique program for the Plant City area.

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The Thanksgiving feast is an iconic symbol in American culture. Throughout the years, recipes have been handed down from generation to generation, perfected by favorite local restaurants and shared by grocers.

For this inaugural edition of our Holiday Season Guide, we have asked Plant City leaders and restaurants for their favorite

Thanksgiving recipes. They graciously responded to help us present a com-plete spread that reflects Plant City’s own unique take on the Thanksgiving feast.

We hope you enjoy these recipes, and if you add them to your family tradition this year, please let us know.

Email Managing Editor Michael Eng at meng@plantcityob-

server.com.

THANKSGIVING FEAST ... PLANT CITY STYLE

>> HOLIDAY MENU by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

METHOD• Thaw and rinse turkey

thoroughly, then pat dry with paper towels.

• Season liberally (both inside the cavity and outside on the skin) with a mixture of 4 parts Kosher or seasoned salt, 1 part black pepper and ½ to 1 part garlic powder (not garlic salt) and let sit while you start your fire.

• Light charcoal fire in your grill. Once coals are ready, spread half to one side and half to the other. Add any seasoning wood/chips or hickory nuts on top of the coals. Place an alumi-

num drip pan between the

coals. Pour a mixture of water and cranberry juice in the bot-tom of the drip pan.

• Rub the turkey generously with extra virgin olive oil and place a handful of fresh rose-mary stalks in the cavity.

• Place the turkey on the grill above the drip pan and put the cover back on the grill.

• Add additional seasoning wood to the fire as necessary on an hourly basis.

• Cook the turkey until the center of the breast/white meat reaches a temperature of 165 degrees. The dark or leg and thigh meat should be cooked to an internal tempera-ture of 180 degrees.

THE MAIN DISHSMOkED TUrkEY (Mark Poppell, Poppell Insurance)

Mark Poppell is known in the community as the vice president of Poppell Insurance. But he also is known for his cooking. As an amateur chef, Poppell can create a great recipe. He has competed in the Pig Jam for nine years, making him an enthusiastic expert on smoking meat.

INGrEDIENTSFrozen turkey, about 18 pounds1 cup kosher salt1/4 cup black pepper

1/4 cup garlic powderAluminum panCoalsDrill


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>> SIDE DISHES

INGREDIENTSBottom layer:1 cup diced onion (yellow or red)

1 cup diced celery3 cups (cooked wild rice)2 Tbsp. olive oil1 tsp. dried thyme1/2 tsp. salt1/4 tsp. pepper

top layer:4 cups chopped and roasted butternut squash

1/2 cup dried cranberries1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

1/4 cup packed brown sugar1/4 cup orange juice1 tsp. cinnamon Salt/pepper to tasteZest of one orange

Straight from the kitchen of The Corner Store in Historic Downtown Plant City, this holiday casserole was conceived by owner Cynthia Diaz for the first Thanksgiving at the store. It combines some of her favorite fall flavors. It also will be sold at The Corner Store during this Thanksgiving.

BUTTERNUT SqUASH AND WILD RIcE HOLIDAY cASSEROLE (Cynthia Diaz, The Corner Store)

METHOD• Preheat

oven to 375; grease casserole dish.

• Heat pan on medium high heat, add olive oil, onion, celery, thyme, salt and pepper. Sauté until tender, 5 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups cooked wild rice (follow package instruc-tions).

• Layer mixture into a greased casserole dish.

• In a separate bowl combine: roast-ed squash, orange

juice, cinnamon, salt and pepper and zest. • Layer on top of rice

. Sprinkle cranberries, pecans and brown sugar on top.

• Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Southern Hospitality employee Gina Deagan learned many of her family recipes from her mother-in-law, Maddaline Rogers. But perhaps the most popular Thanksgiving recipe she knows is her oyster dressing. Rogers, whose family has lived in Plant City for generations, made the recipe using regular cornbread. But Deagan switched it up by making the stuffing with sweet cornbread instead. “She used to fuss like blazes when I made it with sweet cornbread,” Deagan said, laughing.

INGREDIENTS32-ounce package of Swanson chicken broth

1 sleeve of saltine crackers8 slices of white bread with as many heels as possible

1 package of Jiffy sweet cornbread mix

1/2 cup of milk2 beaten eggs8-ounce can of fresh oysters, not smoked

1 stick of butter1 white onion, chopped1 celery, chopped1 green onion, chopped

SaltPepperPoultry seasoningCelery seedParsleyThyme

METHOD• Make the Jiffy sweet cornbread in a

cast-iron skillet the night before you make the oyster dressing.

• Crumble crackers, white bread and sweet cornbread together. Mix in milk and eggs. Set aside.

• Drain oysters and set aside the reserve water. Melt stick of butter in frying pan. Sauté oysters until they curl. Chop them up and mix with bread mixture.

• Take chopped celery, white onion and green onion and sauté with butter in fry-ing pan. Mix with bread mixture.

• Mix reserve water from oysters, broth,

salt, pepper, poultry season-ing, celery seed, parsley and thyme and mix together. Be liberal with the seasoning and herbs. The mixture should be very soupy. Pour in bread mixture.

• Roast a chicken, chop up dark meat and add to bread mixture.

• Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 45 minutes.

• Add turkey broth throughout the bak-ing.

OYSTER DRESSING (Gina Deagan, Southern Hospitality)


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>> SIDE DISHES

GrILLED ScALLOpS IN WHItE WINE AND cHOcOLAtE (Dan Raulerson, Florida House of Representatives District 58)

MEtHOD• Grill scallops until done and ten-

der, about three minutes on each side. • In a double broiler, melt white

chocolate morsels while adding wine. Stir constantly.

• Use about one part wine for every two parts chocolate or to taste. (You

can’t mess this part up!)• Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of dill

weed to taste.• Drizzle sauce over 2 to 3 scallops

per serving and add 1 teaspoon of capers.

• Salt and pepper to taste• Serve remaining wine chilled and

get cozy with your significant other.

Just because something is healthy doesn’t mean it’s not as tasty as some-thing cooked with lard, cups of sugar and sticks of butter. Nancy Ross knows this. She teaches classes on nutrition and healthy eating. The program called Healthy for Life, helps introduce people with health conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes, to a balanced and lean diet. Ross shares a recipe for green bean casserole from the program.

INGrEDIENtS1/2 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

1/4 cup flour (I substituted 2 Tbsp. corn starch)

1/2 cup skim milk (powdered milk converted to liquid works)

1/2 cup nonfat buttermilk (can substitute by adding 1 tsp. vin-egar to skim milk if you don’t drink buttermilk)

1 Tbsp. Ranch dressing mix2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme

1/4 tsp. salt1/4 tsp. pepper1 tsp. butter1 8-ounce package sliced fresh mushrooms

Vegetable cooking spray1 cup French fried onions, crushed

1/2 cup panko 2 plum toma-toes, seeded

MEtHOD• Cook green beans in small

amount of water until tender, but still crunchy. May lightly salt if that is not a health issue. Drain.

• Combine skim milk, buttermilk, Ranch dressing, thyme, salt, pepper and butter. Cook, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken. Add to green beans, along with mushrooms.

• Cook about 5 minutes.

• Pour into large casserole dish that has been sprayed with vegetable oil.

• Top with onions, panko and tomatoes.

• Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes.

GrEEN BEAN cASSErOLE (Nancy Ross, Healthy for Life)

Florida state Rep. Dan Raulerson approves this recipe. Plant City’s newest voice in Tallahassee has been a political fixture in town since 2007. But even before that, he enjoyed one of his favorite hobbies — cooking. Part of the Plant City Gourmet and Viticulture Society, Raulerson has created a decadent side dish.

INGrEDIENtS1 pound large sea scallops

1 bag of white chocolate morsels

1 bottle of dry white wine

CapersSaltPepperDill weed

FrESH crANBErrY SALAD (Helen Parke, Parkesdale Farm Market)

Helen Parke is known for her family’s delicious strawberry shortcake from Parkesdale Farm Market. Switching to another berry, Parke put together a tasty cranberry salad recipe.

INGrEDIENtS1 pound fresh cranberries2 oranges, navels preferably2 apples, red delicious1 lemon2 1/2 cups of sugar

MEtHOD• Wash fruit and grind

together. Remove seeds.• Add sugar. Stir well

and refrigerate.


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P e N D I N G

P e N D I N G

We will be collecting toys and are a Toys For Tots

drop-off location.

>> SIDE DISH

CANDIED YAmS (Jennifer Sellers, Sweetbay Supermarket)

mETHOD• Peel and slice

sweet potatoes length-wise.

• In an eight-quart pot, layer half por-tion of sweet potatoes, sugar cinnamon and nutmeg. Repeat with second layer.

• On top layer, add 1/4

stick of butter and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla

extract. • Simmer

over medium heat, cov-ered, for about an hour.

• Sweet potatoes will

cook down, and ingredients will

become syrup-like. Do not add water, turn or stir.

The Futch family sure knows how to celebrate the holidays. Not only have the Futches created the only corn maze in Plant City, Fox Squirrel Corn Maze, but also they have a delicious recipe for a Thanksgiving staple: pumpkin pie. Shirley Heathcoe has baked the traditional dessert for years and debuts it for Janet Futch’s birthday every year on Oct. 26.

INGREDIENTS5 eggs, slightly beaten29-ounce can of pumpkin2 tsp. cinnamon1 tsp. ginger1 1/2 cup of brown sugar2 tbs. white sugar1/2 tsp. ground cloves1 tsp. salt3 1/3 cup of evaporated milk

mETHOD• Combine ingredients in

order given. • Pour into unbaked pie

shells.• Bake at 425 degrees for 15

minutes. • Reduce heat to 350 degrees

for 45 minutes, or until you test it with a toothpick in the center, and it comes out clean.

fOx SqUIRREL’S pUmpkIN pIE (Futch family)

As a produce associate at Sweetbay Supermarket on Wheeler Street, Jennifer Sellers knows good food. She’s been baking and cooking as a hobby for 13 years and knows the right Sweetbay products to fit her recipes. In fact, when asked for a recipe, Sweetbay selected Sellers as the perfect employee to share a Thanksgiving dish. Sellers chose her stepfather’s, Willie White’s, candied yams recipe.

INGREDIENTS5 pounds sweet potatoes5 pounds sugar

1/4 tsp. vanilla extract 1/4 stick of butterNutmeg to tasteCinnamon to taste

>> DESSERT


GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTH“Why me?” is what crossed Pim Sorber’s mind when she first learned she had breast cancer. Months of treatment began to take a toll on Pim. Things started turning around after Pim used a guest pass to the Plant City Family YMCA. Once there, she signed up for the free, 12-week LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA program for cancer survivors.

Now a proud member of the Plant City Y, Pim says, “I have more energy and I am happier with myself. Exercise is the best medicine!”

Please help the Plant City Y change the odds for cancer survivors like Pim– make a donation today. Your gift could change lives in many different ways.

A gift of...$5,000 changes the odds so 100 kids can learn to swim.$1,000 changes the odds so 5 individuals can beat diabetes.$500 changes the odds so a cancer survivor can get stronger.$50 changes the odds so a kid can stay strong.

PLANT CITY FAMILY YMCA 1507 YMCA Place | Plant City, FL 33563 | 813.757.6677www.tampaymca.org

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A Group Class is available for Preschoolers (ages 3-5 years) Titled “Music to Grow On”

Private Lessons Offered in:PianoVoiceGuitar

Bass Guitar

DrumsCelloViolinViola

ClarinetTrumpet

Percussionand Timpani

Give a Gift of

SPRING MUSIC LESSONSthis holiday season

For more information contact

Plant City’s First Baptist Church

School of Music & ArtsDella Watson: 813-750-4878

Spring Semester – January 14-May 17, 2013

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The holidays are a time for togetherness with friends and family. It is also a time many families take to give back to their community.

Here, we offer a list of Plant City-based non-profit organiza-tions and how to assist them in their efforts to

improve the Plant City community.

Gift of GivinG

if your holiday traditions involve helping those in need, several Plant City-based

non-profits want to meet you.

>> HELPING HANDS by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Unity in the Community is a local non-profit organiza-tion, run by volunteers, that benefits local charity services in the area. The organization has been in operation for nearly 13 years and assists other organizations, such as Meals on Wheels, the United Food Bank, Thanksgiving din-ner program and other local initiatives.

Residents can become members of Unity in the Community to help support

local programs. A senior or student can join for a $10 annual fee, while individu-als are $25 and corporate or small businesses are $100.

informationADDRESS: P.O. Box 524, Plant City, FL 33564

EMAIL: [email protected]

WEBSITE: unityinplantcity.org

Unity in the CommUnity

The United Food Bank of Plant City provides assistance to those in need. Clients come by referrals from local churches and government agencies.

The bank survives on donations. These donations can be made by members of the community, as well as by food manufacturers, food processors, grocery chains and other food sup-pliers. The bank welcomes donations of food and toi-letries, as well as financial donations. The bank also holds fundraising events. Visit the bank website for more information about upcoming events.

The Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City is a non-profit that provides pregnancy and parental counseling. The center offers a unique pro-gram called “Earn While You Learn,” through which expect-ing mothers and fathers take parenting classes and earn points to “purchase” a variety of needed baby items.

The center accepts new baby items for newborns to 24 months, including everyday items, such as diapers.

PregnanCy Care Center information

ADDRESS: 304 n. Collins Street

PHONE: (813) 759-0886


WEBSITE: plantcitypreg-nancycenter.org

United food Bank of Plant City

informationADDRESS: 702 E. Alsobrook St.PHONE: (813) 764-0625WEBSITE: ufbpc.biz


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Holiday Gift CertifiCates available

813-759-8637Facials • Manicures • Pedicures

Haircuts • Haircolor • Waxing

101 S. Alexander St. Plant City, FL 33563 • www.tiptotoeplantcity.com

Gift of GivinG

The Boys and Girls Club of America enables young people, especially those in need, to reach their potential as pro-ductive and responsible citizens. Clubs provide a safe place for young people to learn and grow.

Donations of clothes, toys, books and more are welcome at both local chapter locations. The Dover chapter, which caters toward the children of migrant workers, is in need of clothes to keep children warm

during the winter, along with toys and other donations. For more, call Director De’Anna Irizarry, (813) 659-2800.

The Plant City chap-ter also accepts a multi-tude of items. For more, call Director Taiishia Robinson, (813) 707-8490.

The MacDonald Training Center is a non-profit organization working to empower people with disabilities to lead the lives they choose through day services, community living, vocational training and employment services.

There are many ways to get involved, including donating time, resources and/or financial support. Volunteers are needed to provide services at MTC.

One major need dur-ing the holiday season is assistance for the senior

MTC clients who have been involved with the program for many years. MTC is in need of walkers, high-back recliners, hospi-tal beds and other items.

Bay Area Legal Services is a non-profit, public-interest law firm that provides civil legal assistance to low-income residents and senior citizens. Services include domestic violence, fore-closure, consumer, senior advocacy, family law, pub-lic benefits, housing and others. Free interpreters are provided for Spanish-speaking applicants.

Financial donations can be made online at bals.org, or you can contact the local Plant City office at (813) 752-

1335 to help support a family in need during the holidays. Organizations, such as the Girl Scouts, and businesses, such as Sweetbay Supermarket, have donated Plant City chapter in the past.

Boys and Girls CluBinformationWest Plant City Club: 901 S. Waller St., Plant City, FL 33563

Dover Unit: 2820 S. Gallagher Road, Dover, FL 33527

Phone: (813) 659-2800 (Dover) or (813) 707-8490 (Plant City)

maCdonald traininG Center inC. d/B/a/ James ranCh

informationADDRESS: 2902 Cork Road

PHONE: (813) 870-1300, Ext. 310


WEBSITE: macdonald-center.org

Bay area leGal serviCes

other Ways to GiveThere are several Tampa Bay-area and national organizations that help those in need in Plant City. Here are a few and how you can get involved.

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AND SERVICESFrameworks of Tampa Bay Inc. (813) 514-9555; myframeworks.org The Youth Alliance (813) 719-0244; [email protected]; theyouthalliance.com Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House (Baby Bungalow)504 N. Palm Drive, Plant City, FL 33563; (813) 356-1293; championsforchil-drentampabay.org The Spring of Tampa Bay (Domestic Violence Center)P.O. Box 5147, Tampa, FL 33675; (813) 247-5433

NON-PROFIT DONATION SITESPlant City Thrift Shoppe 2510 W. Baker St., Plant City, FL 33563; (813) 377-3977, Ext. 248Goodwill of Plant City 2802 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL 33566; (813) 754-2778Helping Hands604 E. Baker St., Plant City, FL 33563; (813) 781-4272; [email protected]

informationADDRESS: 701 Tillman Place, Suite. 300 (local office)

PHONE: (813) 752-1335; 1 (800) 625-2257 (toll free)

WEBSITE: bals.org


Nov. 13Veterans exhibitOpens Nov. 13, at Plant City Photo Archives and History Center, 106 S. Evers St., Plant CityCall (813) 754-1578

Nov. 15 business after hours5:15 to 7 p.m. at Jarrett-Scott Ford, 2000 E. Baker St., Plant CityCall (813) 754-3707

the Grateful heart art exhibit5 to 8 p.m. at MacDonald Training Center, 2902 Cork Road, Plant CityCall (813) 870-1300

Nov. 16ffa forestry ContestDurant High School, 4748 Cougar Path, Plant CityCall (813) 757-9075

Nov. 17art lounGe Gallery anniVersary6 to 10 p.m. at the gallery, 119 E. Reynolds St. Call (813) 704-4872

“real talk ... keepinG it 100”7 p.m. at Greater New Hope Anointed Ministries, 2104 Mud Lake Road, Plant CityCall (813) 754-3626

strawberry ClassiC Car show5 to 9 p.m. at Historic Downtown Plant CityCall (813) 754-3707 piG Jam10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Randy Larson Softball Four-Plex, 1500 S. Park Road, Plant CityCall (813) 754-3707

Nov. 19 to Dec. 15optimist Club tree lotPlant City High School,1 Raider Place, Plant CityEmail [email protected]

Nov. 29 to Dec. 1CouGar wrestlinG inVitational Strawberry Festival Grounds, 303 Lemon St., Plant CityVisit cougarinvitational.com

“aliCe in wonderland”7 to 9:30 p.m. at Durant High School, 4748 Cougar Path, Plant City

Call (813) 757-9075

Nov. 30fall produCtion7 p.m. at Strawberry Crest High School, 4691 Gallagher

Road, DoverCall (813) 707-7522

Dec. 1Cpr and basiC life support for health Care proViders — new Cer-tifiCation8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Commu-nity Conference Room at South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St., Plant CityCall (813) 644-6720

plant City bike fest5 to 9 p.m. at Historic Downtown Plant CityCall (813) 754-3707

Dec. 2Children’s Christmas proGram10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 303 N. Evers St., Plant CityCall (813) 754-3519

Dec. 6third-Grade ameriCan GoVernment ConCert6:30 p.m. at Nelson Elementary, 5413 Durant Road, DoverCall (813) 651-2120

liGhts of loVe5:30 to 8 p.m. at McCall Park, Historic Downtown Plant CityCall (813) 757-8478

Dec. 7Christmas parade6:30 p.m. at the intersection of Collins and Alsobrook streets, traveling north on Col-lins and down Reynolds Street Call Tom Daramus, (813) 967-1626

Dec. 8“Christmas by CandleliGht”6 and 8 p.m. at Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 1107 Charlie Griffin Road, Plant CityCall (813) 444-8863

Christmas in the park10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant CityCall (813) 659-4255

Season’s Greetings

The holiday spirit is alive and well in Plant City, and the community will offer a plethora of

events for you and your family to enjoy.

>> CALENDAR OF EVENTS


East HillsborougH Historical sociEty 20tH Holiday cElEbration4 to 9 p.m. at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins St.Call (813) 757-9226

Family cHildbirtH cEntEr Education Programs10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St., Plant CityCall (813) 644-6720

santa’s WorksHoP9 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 303 N. Evers St., Plant CityCall (813) 754-3519

“sistEr robErt annE’s cabarEt class”8 p.m. Dec. 8, 13-15; 2 p.m. Dec. 9, at Plant City Entertainment, 101 N. Thomas St.Call (813) 752-2805

Dec. 9“cHristmas on gilligan’s island”6 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Dover, 3223 N. Gallagher Road, DoverCall (813) 719-2273

sEason oF Joy9 to 10:15 a.m. at Plant City Church of God, 2103 Mud Lake Road, Plant CityCall (813) 752-4591

Dec. 11straWbErry crEst band Holiday concErt7 to 8:30 p.m. at Strawberry Crest High School, 4691 Gallagher Road, DoverCall (813) 707-7522

Dec. 13durant HigH scHool band cHristmas concErt7 to 8:30 p.m. at Durant High School, 4748 Cougar Path, Plant CityCall (813) 757-9075

Plant city HigH scHool WintEr concErt7 to 8 p.m. at Plant City High School, 1 Raider Place, Plant CityCall (813) 757-9370

WintEr concErt 6:30 p.m. at Nelson Elementary, 5413 Durant Road, DoverCall (813) 651-2120

WintEr concErt6:30 p.m. at Bryan Elementary, 2006 W. Oak Ave., Plant CityCall (813) 757-9300

Dec. 14straWbErry crEst cHorus Holiday concErt7 to 8 p.m. at Strawberry Crest High School, 4691 Gallagher Road, DoverCall (813) 707-7522 Dec. 14-16“tHE ligHt oF cHristmas”7 p.m. Dec. 14 and 15; 6:30 p.m. Dec. 16, at Plant City’s First Baptist Church, 503 N. Palmer St., Plant CityCall (813) 752-4104

Dec. 15straWbErry classic car sHoW5 to 9 p.m. at Historic Downtown Plant CityCall (813) 754-3707

Dec. 16adult cHristmas Program10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 303 N. Evers St., Plant CityCall (813) 754-3519

adult cHristmas Program10:15 a.m. at Shiloh Baptist Church, 1104 Cason St., Plant CityCall (813) 752-8345

bilingual cHristmas Program6:30 p.m. at Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Park Road, Plant CityCall (813) 752-4622

cHristmas musical7 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 402 W. English St.Call (813) 752-9316

cHristmas Program6 p.m. at Hopewell Baptist Church, 6001 S. C.R. 39, Plant CityCall (813) 737-3053

kids cHurcH cHristmas Production10:15 a.m. at Plant City Church of God, 2103 Mud Lake Road, Plant CityCall (813) 752-4591

Dec 18WintEr Program concErt6 to 7:30 p.m. at Lincoln Elementary, 1207 E. Renfro St., Plant CityCall (813) 757-9329

Dec. 20FiEld dayWalden Lake Elementary, 2800 Turkey Creek Road, Plant CityCall (813) 757-9433

Dec. 21cHristmas concErt7 p.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church, 1104 N. Alexander St., Plant CityCall (813) 752-8251

Dec. 23kids cHristmas Program10:15 a.m. at Shiloh Baptist Church, 1104 Cason St., Plant CityCall (813) 752-8345

Dec. 23cHristmas brEakFast9 to 10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 303 N. Evers St., Plant CityCall (813) 754-3519

11


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The holiday season is filled with great food, pleasant weather and quality time spent with family and friends. And, of course, plenty of Christmas shopping.

It’s always nice to receive a present, but it’s also satisfying when you find and pick out that spe-cial and unique gifts for a loved one. Even better — that warm, fuzzy feel-ing you get when you see someone you love open his or her gift.

Sure, plenty of shoppers will head to the shop-

ping malls in Lakeland or Brandon, but Historic Downtown Plant City also features plenty of options for that one-of-a-kind gift. With an array of antique stores, consignment boutiques and even a delectable candy shop, there is some-thing for every-one on your shop-ping list.

Gift GuideDiscover what Historic Downtown Plant

City has to offer to a busy holiday shopper.

>>THE LIST by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

All A Bloom Florist116 N. Collins St. (813) 567-5735

Antiques and More105 S. Evers St. (813) 719-6336

Antiques and Treasures107 N. Collins St.(813) 752-4626

Arden Mays Designs107 S. Evers St.(813) 470-9790

Art Lounge Gallery119 E. Reynolds St. (813) 704-4872 Bailey Acoustic Shop104 W. Reynolds St. Suite 6(813) 390-4796

Brown’s Floral Shop106 E. Reynolds St. (813) 752-5159

Camellia Rose TeaRoom and Boutique120 N. Collins St.(813) 659-8287The shopping season can

keep any gift-giver busy. But don’t forget to eat while you are shopping down-town. The Camellia Rose Tea Room and Boutique will be offering a special holiday menu for food and teas. During the week of Thanksgiving, the tea room also will be serving turkey.

Chic Antiques by Rachel109 E. Reynolds St. (813) 659-0671

Claudia’s BoutiqueS. Collins St. (813) 717-7779

Collins Street Junction117 N. Collins St. (813) 659-2585

The Corner Store121 E. Reynolds St. (813) 754-0900

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Creative Parties by Veronica203 S. Collins St. (813) 758-0517

DeJavu Boutique104 W. Reynolds St. (813) 719-9066

Ends of the Earth Cafe101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.(813) 754-2400

Inspired Quilting and Sewing101 N. Collins St. (813) 704-4867

Genies Consignment101 S. Evers St.(813) 719-1047

Lark Photo and Framing102 W. Reynolds St. (813) 754-3400

Linda’s Crab Shack200 E. Reynolds St.(813) 754-0492

Mae’s Bookstore119 S. Collins St.(813) 707-1005

Millie’s Gift Shop111 S. Collins St. (813) 754-8822In addition to candles,

cards, teacher gifts and décor, Millie’s offers a special holiday gift perfect for children: Elf Magic. Elf Magic is a collection of elf dolls. Each year around the holidays, families bring out

the doll, which is sup-posed to watch to see if

kids are naughty or nice. The

legend states the

dolls come alive at night and cause playful mischief. Parents can play along by causing “mischief,” such as mak-ing cookies at night or rearranging the stockings above the fireplace. The dolls come with different hair colors and accessories.

Miss Ruby’s Antiques and Collectibles119 N. Collins St. (813) 752-7329

Neumeister’s Candy Shoppe106 NE. Drane St. (813) 704-6923For anyone with a sweet

tooth, Neumeister’s Candy Shoppe has just the thing; a two-pound chocolate Santa. The Santa can be made with milk, dark or white chocolate and costs $34.99 before Dec. 10. The price changes to $39.99 for orders placed after Dec. 10. The choco-late St. Nick was a popular seller last year.

Oh My! Consignment and Boutique116 W. Reynolds St.(813) 704-4899

Patricia’s 108 NE. Drane St.(813) 659-9700

Rocking Horse Collectibles and Antiques114 N. Collins St.(813) 707-1417

Sister’s & Company104 E. Reynolds St.(813) 754-0990

Snellgroves109 S. Collins St.(813) 752-3652

Stacy’s Consignment Boutique 113 W. Reynolds St.(813) 754-2020

State Theater Antiques111 W. J Arden Mays Blvd.(813) 659-1200State Theater Antiques

stands out from other

antique stores downtown. It carries unique items and more big-ticket items for the avid collector. Whether you’re looking for an 1894 restored National cash reg-ister or a Wurlitzer Jukebox reproduction, you will be sure to find the perfect his-torical gift.

Sweetheart Granny Antiques and Decor107 E. Reynolds St. (813) 719-7000

Tracks to Treasure Antiques105 S. Collins St. (813) 752-6393

Whistle Stop Cafe102 S. Collins St.(813) 752-7340

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From comedy and dramas to musicals and one-act shows, Plant City Entertainment does it all.

“We offer such a variety of shows for everyone, and I think that’s why this orga-nization is so important for the fabric of this commu-nity,” Shirley Outen, Plant City Entertainment spokes-woman, said.

Originally called the Plant City Community Theater, Plant City Entertainment started in the 1970s, performing shows at the old train depot, schools and nursing homes. The group then moved to different ven-ues, such as Hillsborough County Community College, for practices and shows,

before finding a permanent home at 101 Thomas St. in Plant City’s Historic Downtown District.

Membership has grown, and today, about 650 peo-ple receive the newsletter for upcoming shows.

“We’ve had audi-ences that love our shows,” Outen said. “They go from one show to the next. They’re like family.”

Outen attributes the popularity of shows to the affordable ticket prices, which are attractive to families and seniors.

Up next for Plant City Entertainment is the production “Jesus Christ Superstar.” It was the first musical Plant City Entertainment Director Domin Pazo had ever heard, and it forever made an impact on his life.

A one-of-a-kind musical, “Jesus Christ Superstar,” tells the story of Christ’s life in the weeks leading up to his crucifixion. The musical has been going on nightly since Nov. 9, but

there are still three more chances to catch it — Nov. 15, 16 and 17.

Pazo had wanted to do the show for years before he finally got the chance to obtain the rights to the production this year. He held three days of audi-tions to select his ultimate cast, which ranges from a 12-year-old to a 60-year-old. The 33-member cast has been rehearsing two nights a week to prepare.

“It takes a lot of work,” Pazo said. “Especially a musical, because you are singing, dancing and act-ing. But I’ve never had a cast that came into a show who know the piece so well.”

Plant City Entertainment also will feature a one-woman show, “Sister Robert Anne’s Cabaret Class,” Dec. 8 to 15. Starring Kim Mitchell, Outen’s daughter, the com-edy is about a nun who is a frustrated performer. It involves singing, dancing and audience participation.

It’s Showtime!Plant City Entertainment will fill its stage with music, comedy, drama and more this season.

IF YOU GO“JesUs ChrIst sUperstar”WHEN: 8 p.m. Nov. 15 to 17

WHERE: 101 N. Thomas St.

COST: $10 for members or group advanced sales; $14 for non-members

CONTACT: (813) 754-4929

“sIster rObert anne’s Cabaret Class”WHEN: 8 p.m. Dec. 8, 13-15; 2 p.m. Dec. 9


CONTACT: (813) 754-4929

“a Catered aFFaIr”WHEN: 8 p.m. Feb. 15-16 and 21-23; 2 p.m. Feb. 17


CONTACT: (813) 754-4929

>> CUrtaIn Call by amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

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Christmas is a time of giving, and the Plant City Community Choir can’t wait to give locals the show of their lives.

The choir’s 150 heav-enly voices will present Christmas by Candlelight Dec. 8, at Evangelical Presbyterian Church.

In addition to the choir, the concert will feature a full orchestra from the University of South Florida accompanying the singers, as well as an elite eight vocal ensemble and two local celebrity narrators.

“It’s a lot of work to do something like this,” Joseph Mendolia, executive and artistic director of the choir, said.

The choir performing in Christmas by Candlelight is the same choir that is going to Disney World to perform as part of the amusement park’s nightly holiday festivities, which take place from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve.

This is the fourth year the Plant City Community Choir will perform at Disney World.

The Plant City Community Choir com-

prises Plant City locals and USF students. Members range in age from high-schoolers to an 85-year-old talent.

Christmas by Candlelight is an hour-long concert, with 15 standard holiday songs, such as “Joy to the World” and “Come All Ye Faithful.” Evangelical Presbyterian Church Pastor Scott Lingle and Commissioner Bill Dodson will be the celebrity narra-tors. Showtimes are at 6

p.m. and 8 p.m.Mendolia’s favorite song

is the first one on the pro-gram, “Shout for Joy.”

“It’s very energetic, and people really get into it,” Mendolia said.

He also likes “Do you Hear What I Hear,” which will have a double choir performing a call and response.

Mendolia currently is studying for his master’s degree at USF. He also teaches an honors college

choir in addition to running the Plant City Community Choir.

“The one thing that just thrills me the most is that we’ve been going through the worst economic times of my life, but we keep growing,” Mendolia said about the community choir. “People want to perform, and people want to come to concerts.”

The Ultimate Christmas CarolersChristmas by Candlelight is the same show the Plant City Community Choir will perform at its Disney appearances.

IF YOU GOChrIstmas bY CandlelIGhtWHEN: 6 and 8 p.m. Dec. 8

WHERE: Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 1107 Charlie Griffin Road, Plant City

COST: $10 in advance; $12 at the door. The $20 VIP package includes prime parking, seating and a meet-and-greet reception.

CONTACT: (813) 444-8863

>> mUsIC WIth a messaGe by amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Courtesy photo

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Christmas can be a busy time of the year. From buying gifts, office parties and family get-togethers, the season keeps us on our toes.

But through it all, it is important to stop and take a break and enjoy the holiday season. And Christmas in Plant City is certainly a magical time. From the annual Christmas Parade and

Christmas in the Park events to South Florida Baptist Church’s Lights of Love and a plethora of church concerts and performances, the entire community seems to sparkle in Christmas spirit.

Here, you will find just some of the main Christmas events taking place this year in Plant City. For more, turn to our comprehensive calendar, pages 10-11.

MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

Despite its geographic location in the Sunshine State, Plant City transforms into a winter wonderland

through a myriad of Christmas events and traditions.

>> CHRISTMAS by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

For 40 years, the Plant City Optimist Club has sponsored a Christmas tree lot, with proceeds staying in town.

According to Dave Robbins, who has served as the tree lot chairman for 25 years, the lot has averaged

850 trees sold per year for the last five years.

“The money raised goes to a variety of programs, including basketball, flag football and public-speaking contests,” Robbins said.

The club recently donated money made from the lot to

build a new playground at Ellis Methvin Park. For the past 15 years, the money also has supported four $1,000 scholarships for Plant City High School.

“The money we make from this will be put aside for a variety of programs and projects for capital improve-ment,” Robbins said.

OpTIMIST CLUb TREE LOT

The annual Christmas Parade has marched through Plant City for more than 25 years.

The parade has grown over the years and now has a cap of 100 units, including floats, decorated cars and trucks, marching bands and other performers.

This year’s parade will take place at 6:30 p.m. Dec.

7, beginning at the intersection of Collins and Alsobrook streets.

“This event is all about the kids,” said Tom

Daramus, a

parade board member for about eight years.

As always, Santa Claus will make a special appearance, and for the first time, he will ride on his own float.

IF YOU GOWHEN: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 7

WHERE: Starts at the intersection of Collins and Alsobrook streets, traveling north on Collins and down Reynolds Street, ending near the new courthouse.

INFORMATION: Tom Daramus, (813) 967-1626

CHRISTMAS pARADE

IF YOU GOWHEN: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, Nov. 19 to Dec. 15 (subject to change)

WHERE: Corner of Maki Road and West Alexander Street, in front of Plant City High School

INFORMATION: Dave Robbins, [email protected]

2012 HOLIDAY SEASON GUIDE16


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Christmas in the Park will celebrate its 15th year this December. The annual event is held at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Center and seeks to ensure children in need enjoy a Merry Christmas.

The event features free food for every-one and

toy giveaways, including an annual bicycle draw-ing for pre-registered youths. There also will be plenty of activities and fun for kids and adults, and Santa also has been known to make an appearance.

Lillie Brown, the recre-ation supervisor with the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department, has been involved with the event for about 10 years.

“This event is all about helping kids

in our commu-nity,” she said. “Without events like this and other programs,

many of these kids wouldn’t have a

Christmas.”Organizers

of last year’s event donated 30 bicycles,

120 bags of

groceries and 150 bags of toys.

Donations of unwrapped toys and food items are accepted by contacting the MLK Jr. Recreational Center at (813) 757-9195 or emailing Brown, [email protected]. Toys and bicycles should be for children ages 5 to 9. Monetary support also will be accepted.

“This is a great way we can get involved and help our local community,” Brown said.

For the 14th year, South Florida Baptist Hospital will brighten Plant City with Lights of Love, its annual tree- and park-lighting event.

The event will begin with a lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. Dec. 6, at McCall Park in Historic Downtown. Plant City Mayor Mike Sparkman will lead the lighting cer-emony.

The tree will feature different colored lights to represent donors for differ-ent fundraising levels. For example, a red light is a $25 donation. Each light will be dedicated in honor or in memory of a loved one, and proceeds will support South Florida Baptist Hospital.

In addition to the lighting, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for $5. Local performing groups will entertain the crowd this year, including performances from Tomlin Middle School’s NRG musical

group and the Plant City’s First Baptist Church’s Praise Team and Children’s Choir.

South Florida Baptist Hospital’s Jana Butler will be in charge of the event for the first time. She took over as executive director in March.

“I’m thrilled to be involved, and I’m very excit-ed to have the opportunity to work to provide this great event for our community,” Butler said.

According to Butler, last year’s event raised about $25,000, with proceeds benefiting community-outreach programs for the

hospital, including educa-tion programs, screenings and health fairs.

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARk IF YOU GOWHEN: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Dec. 6

WHERE: McCall Park, across from the Historic Train Depot; 106 S. Evers St.

INFORMATION: (813) 757-8478

IF YOU GOWHEN: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 8

WHERE: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

INFORMATION: Lillie Brown, [email protected] or (813) 757-9195

LIGHTS OF LOvE


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Tom and Dawn Doner found their dream home about one year ago in the North Residential Historic District. And this year, they’ll welcome the community in as a part of the East Hillsborough Historical Society’s holiday home tour.

The tour is part of the society’s 20th Holiday Celebration, which also includes dinner, dessert and the Florida Opry’s holi-day musical program fea-turing Riverside. This year’s tour features four stops.

“This is our first year (participating), and we are very excited,” Dawn Doner said. “We figured that by welcoming our neighbors in, we would get a chance to meet other owners in our

neighborhood. We’re also excited to hear what others have to say about the evo-lution of our home.

“We love old homes and the stories they tell,” she said. “The character of the neighborhood is so warm and peaceful. We couldn’t have found a better place to raise a family and settle our roots.”

Since the Doners moved into their home, 807 N. Wheeler St., they’ve

completed several renova-tion projects, which have uncovered some surprises.

“The yard has been our most rewarding task so far,” Dawn Doner said. “We discovered a pond in the process buried under layers of dirt, and we restored it to its original glory.”

Shelby Bender, society president, said the tour is a celebration of the one-of-a-kind real-estate treasures found in Plant

City’s historic district.“New homes have

no character,” she said. “They’re a box, with a garage door that sits to the right or the left.

“The houses (on the tour) have a lot of unique, original features,” Bender said. “They’re all very dis-tinctive.”

Since they moved in, the Doners’ love for their his-toric home has grown.

“We’re always finding something new out about our home,” Dawn Doner said. “My husband loves that there are stairs under the stairs. I am fond of the sidewalk that we uncovered that leads to the pond. It’s hard to pick a favorite part, when everything about our home has charm of its own.

“We are so honored to be a part of the tour this year,” she said. “We plan on being a part of this community with our children for many years to come, so for that, we are thankful.”

Homes for the HolidaysThe East Hillsborough Historical Society will host its 20th holiday home tour this year.

IF YOU GOTwENTIETH HOLIDAY CELEbrATION FEATUrING THE CANDLELIGHT TOUr AND THE FLOrIDA OprYWHEN: 4 to 9 p.m. Dec. 8

WHERE: Begins at 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins St., Plant City

COST: $12 (Opry only); $15 (tour only); $20 (tour/dessert) $27 (Opry/tour); $25 (Opry/tour/dessert); $30 (Opry/tour/dinner)

INFORMATION: (813) 757-9226, [email protected]; floridaopry.com

>> DEEp rOOTS by Michael Eng | Managing Editor

THE TOUr1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins St.

The home of Barbara Barden, 702 N. Wheeler St.

The Strawberry House Bed & Breakfast, Brenda and Guy Ford, 805 N. Wheeler St.

The home of Dawn and Tom Doner, 807 N. Wheeler St.


Local News... ...From Local PeopleLet us hear from you. No news is too small for the Plant City Observer.

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Plant City Observer Holiday Season Guide 1012

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