Christmas Lane contest winners
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 was asked to nominate deserving families to the Observer and this year’s winners are the families nominated by Candy Walker and Tami Bender.
The families will receive:
– Four VIP tickets to Christmas Lane
– A professional photo with Santa Claus
– Four Christmas Lane concession stand tickets
– A $100 Publix gift card
The prizes can be claimed at the Plant City Observer office, 1507 S. Alexander St. Suite 103, during normal business hours.
Lakeland man found dead following Plant City shooting
Plant City police are investigating the fatal shooting of a 24-year-old Lakeland man.
At approximately 9:25 p.m. Nov. 26, PCPD officers responded to a call of gunshots near 1009 W. Washington St. When they arrived at the scene they found a man, who was later identified as Michael James Hector Jr., in the roadway with a gunshot wound to the chest, according to PCPD.
The police report said Hector died at the scene.
PCPD detectives are actively investigating the incident and gathering additional information to develop leads as to what the motive may have been, and are asking for more information regarding the suspect. Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Mark Dunnam at 813-757-9200.
This is an ongoing investigation. More information to come.
Plant City art show moves to Tampa
Back in January, the Bing Rooming House hosted the “Periphery: An Exhibition” art show that used striking visuals to tell the stories of marginalized communities. Exhibition organizers Clay Hollenkamp and Shelby Baerwalde are now getting ready to host the sequel in Tampa in early 2020.
Titled “Shelter: Concepts of Home,” this exhibit is a partnership with the USF Humanities Institute and will come to the Portico Community Hall in downtown Tampa from Jan. 4, 2020 through March 31, 2020.
“The name and theme came about as the event is the last in a series of community events that began with a speaking engagement on Sept. 19 with Matthew Desmond, author of the Pulitzer-winning book, Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City,” Hollenkamp said. “In connection with Mr. Desmond’s speech, the Humanities Institute wanted to include a number of community events on a similar theme.”
The exhibit will feature 2D and 3D art and cash prizes will be offered for winners of the show’s Best in Show award and two honorable mentions. Artists can learn more and submit work “exploring the concepts of home” for the event online at fs7.formsite.com/BOjxAC/ayk5lgm1ke/index.html by Dec. 20. The opening reception takes place from 6-9 p.m. Jan. 24, 2020.