It’s a longstanding tradition — 55 years to be exact.
And it’s always a secret.
Plant City’s Citizen of the Year recipient is never revealed until the moment they are called onto the stage at the annual luncheon.
“Every year is an exciting time for the Citizen of the Year,” Kiwanis Club of Plant City member Ken Gibbs said.
This year, the luncheon takes place at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Hall. RSVPs must be received by Feb. 5.
The Citizen of the Year is selected by civic clubs around the area. The Kiwanis organize the nomination process and event. Each club submits a nominee and then votes on whom they would like to see named.
This year’s clubs include the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Plant City Civitan Club, GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City, Plant City Lions Club, Plant City Optimist Club, Plant City Daybreak Rotary, Plant City Noon Rotary and American Business Woman’s Association.
Last year’s recipient was Joseph E. Sedita.
IF YOU GO
OUTSTANDING CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
WHEN: 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12
WHERE: Where: Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Hall, 2301 W. Oak Ave.
COST: $25
RSVP: By Feb. 5 to Sharon Moody, (813) 453-7134 or sharonmoody91@yahoo.com, or Ken Gibbs, (813) 752-6171 or GibbsRealtor@aol.com.