04.18.24 PLCO

Caring just for YOU.

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Our Pediatric Doctor:

Humam Alabsi, MD Pediatrics CENTRAL

“Nothing is more enriching than being part of a child’s growth journey into thriving and wellness.”

Ready to make this their healthiest year yet?

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Our Location:

Central Maintenance and Welding raised $112,000 at their 2nd -annual Shrimp Boil at The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, held Feb. 16.

The funds were raised to support and empower the community’s youth, including the local group foster home, Everyday Blessings Inc.

The annual Shrimp Boil is the signature event of Central Maintenance and Welding and has been a big success.

“Our renewed tradition of hosting a Shrimp Boil for our valued clients and partners while being able to celebrate and support such laudable local causes such as Everyday Blessings continues to be the highlight of our company calendar every year,” said Shawn MacConnell, vice president of Central Maintenance and Welding.

Everyday Blessings Inc. was selected again this year as one of the events beneciaries, along with Pinecrest Pilots Football and Cheer. Everyday Blessings provides residential services and care to foster children and young adults in Hillsborough and Manatee counties.

April 2, Everyday Blessings announced the impact of the $73,350 donation from Central Maintenance and Welding. For information, see www.cmw.cc or www. everydayblessingsinc.org/

SELECT WALGREENS OFFERING SENIOR DISCOUNTS

With the 65- to 74-year-old population the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. population, increasing by 31 percent by 2026, Walgreens is o ering seniors extra savings.

Through June 25, selected Walgreens locations will give 10 percent o storewide each Seniors Day in-store and online. Participating stores in Plant City are at 1802 James L. Redman Pkwy. and 2102 W. Baker

St.

Seniors Day is held every rst Tuesday of the month for seniors and their caregivers and o ers 20 percent o regular-priced merchandise. In addition, through June 25, Walgreens will o er an additional 10 percent o any item to provide convenient, connected and a ordable senior care.

LOCAL ORATORICAL CONTEST WINNER ADVANCES AT SOUTHWEST REGION COMPETITION

Plant City Optimist Club Oratorical Contest representative Marley Mueller won second place at the Optimist International Southwest Region Oratorical Competition. April 13 at the Plant City Parks & Recreation Department administrative conference room, six orators from the Polk, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties competed. Olivia Bond, a sixth-grader from LCC Day School, St. Petersburg placed rst, with Mueller, a 10th grader at Plant City High School, scoring a close second place. Earlier this spring, Mueller placed second in the local competition Feb. 19 behind Durant 12th grader Gabby Howell, with the top two advancing to the Zone 6 competition against Winter Haven’s and Lakeland’s top competitors. Mueller took rst place and advanced to the Southwest Region competition.

The theme of the 2024 contest was “How to Change the World with Optimism.” The students presented their four to ve

minute orations in front of an audience of more than 40. Bond and Mueller advance to the North Florida District Finals April 27 at 1 p.m. in Bushnell where they will compete against two representatives from the Orlando region and two from the Panhandle region. Winners get college scholarships for 1st place, $2,500, 2nd place, $1,500 and 3rd place $1,000.

COMMUNITY HIRING EVENT IN PLANT CITY

Workforce Development Partners (WDP), a Florida-based nonpro t focused on workforce development and local economic growth in partnership with Hillsborough County and Hillsborough County Public Schools is hosting a hiring event April 25.

The Future Fair event is one of six held across Hillsborough County throughout April and is part of the Future Career Academy program of the Workforce Development Partners Corp., presented in partnership with Hillsborough County Public Schools. Future Career Academy is an immersive program that prepares seniors for in-demand, entry-level jobs.

Each job fair also features a Best Florida Jobs Power Hour hiring event, which connects adult community members with local businesses looking to ll immediate openings which o er long-term career and educational development.

The Future Fair is open to English and Spanish-speaking community members aged 18 and over looking to advance their careers and nancial opportunities with established local businesses.

The event begins at 8 a.m., non-student jobseekers will only be admitted to the 1 to 2 p.m. Power Hour portion of the event, once the student programming has concluded.

The Plant City Future Fair is 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., April 25, in Hillsborough Community College’s Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road. For information, see www.thefuturercareacademy.com or email info@workforcedevelopmentpartners.com

NATIONAL PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKE BACK DAY

April 27 is National Prescription Drug

Take Back Day and each year the Plant City Police Department gets involved.

Each take back day in April and one in October, police department o cials set up collection spots.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the police department will be set up at the CVS drugstore, 2302 James L. Redman Pkwy. to collect any unused prescription drugs. Those drugs are then delivered to the Drug Enforcement Administration, who makes sure they’re properly disposed.

Call 813-757-9200 for information.

STUDENT, DRIVER INJURED IN AUTOMOBILE, BUS WRECK

A student on a Hillsborough County school bus su ered a lip abrasion after a vehicle hit the bus at the intersection of Cooper Road and Knights Road.

The Hillsborough County Sheri ’s O ce reported the accident occurred at 8:41 a.m. and the person driving a red Nissan Centra was life- ighted to St. Joseph’s Hospital in serious condition. The student had a minor injury and was treated at the scene.

LOCAL ANIMAL RESCUE GOES ABOVE AND BEYOND TO HELP ANIMALS

future for our lives. Honestly, rescue has always chosen us.”

The McNeely Farmily Rescue and Sanctuary is built on a foundation of years of rescue and love. Their expansion from paw prints to hoof prints is to provide rescue, rehabilitation and retirement for domestic and agricultural animals. “I have been helping animals since I was a little girl,” said owner April McNeely. “My mom used to tell me that I had the ‘magic touch’ and any animal in the world would come to me or listen to me.”

McNeely Farmily Rescue and Sanctuary is owned and operated by the McNeely Family, April, her husband Bryan, and their daughter Phoenix. “Our farm functions because our family functions with love,” McNeely said. “We decided years ago that we were going to choose rescue as the

“Educate, Don’t Hate” is their motto. “We try to educate the public when we are informed of situations in a manner that doesn’t create panic or chaos,” McNeely said. “We do this so that we can work together in situations more comfortably and so that people can be understanding of how to better these situations.”

Recently, McNeely and her family were contacted about a mother dog and her pups that were in a dire situation in Wimauma, Fla. The mother and her puppies had injuries consistent with being thrown out of a vehicle. The rescuers discovered a three-year-old dog frantically searching for her puppies on a dark road. “Valroy Road is a known dumping area because it is dark and in the middle of nowhere,” McNeely said.

McNeely took in the mother dog, Maya and her two pups that survived. They were later named Valentino and Scarlet. The other four puppies did not survive. “There is not a single excuse that you can come up with on this planet to dump your dog and leave something that loves you and has a bond for you and do anything for you,” McNeely said.

The community has come together and helped McNeely Farmily by raising $4k to help nd the person or persons who dumped Maya and her pups.

McNeely and her family stayed true to their motto of “Educate, Don’t Hate” through this whole ordeal. “We have met with some local o cials to see what can be done to add cameras along this road, so the dumping can stop,” McNeely said.

McNeely Farmily Rescue and Sanctuary has a strong Facebook presence which

helps them spread their message and show the progress of the various animals they have at their rescue. “We are thankful for all the love and support we get from the community and beyond,” McNeely said.

If you are interested in helping The McNeely Farmily Rescue and Sanctuary, they have many opportunities from donations to help them build a covered dog run to volunteering your time on their farm. “We appreciate the donations and our volunteers,” McNeely said.

If you’d like to learn more about their farmily, you can visit their website at www. mcneelyfarmilyrescue.com or their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pro le. php?id=100075901556217.

LIBBY HOPKINS STAFF WRITER

APRIL 5

Grab and Drop – Retail Theft

2600 block of James L Redman Pkwy

An o cer responded to the above location and met with Loss Prevention who reported $53.42 worth of merchandise had been stolen but recovered when the subject ed.

Just Needed a Lift – False imprisonment

100 block of W. Alexander St

An o cer responded to the above-listed location in reference to a subject attempting to enter the caller's vehicle. Plant City Communications advised a black male wearing a black sweatshirt and gray pants was last seen running away. Upon arrival, a detective observed a black male matching the provided description and gave the subject lawful commands which he refused to comply. The subject was asked to put his hands behind his back due to being detained for investigating a crime. The subject failed to comply by keeping one hand in front of him, bracing and tensing, resisting the o cer’s attempts to secure him. The subject was escorted to the ground where he was ultimately secured via handcu s, while still attempting to defeat ofcers. The subject would not provide o cers with his name and date of birth but was later learned through the investigation. Contact was made with the victim, a Hispanic female, who was visibly upset and explained to ofcers that while she was sitting in her vehicle an unknown black male opened her front passenger side door and attempted to enter her vehicle. She was in fear for her life and felt she was unable to leave of her own free will because the subject was standing in between her vehicle and the open vehicle door. She did not speak English and was unable to advise what he was saying to her. When he was detained, he spontaneously stated, “I was just trying to go to Showgirls.” Due to him placing

fear into her and her stating she did not feel she was free to leave without being harmed he was placed under arrest for False Imprisonment and resisting o cer without violence. He was transported to Orient Road Jail.

Show and Tell – Reckless Display of a Firearm

1800 block of James L Redman Pky

O cers responded to the above-listed business in reference to a ght where one subject was armed with a handgun. Upon arrival, Ofcers located three subjects walking through the rear alleyway of the business. The subjects were detained and a black Taurus 9MM handgun was found on one of the subjects in his back pants pocket. Through the investigation, it was determined one subject was involved in a ght with a patron who did not wish to pursue charges. As the ght was broken up one of the subjects pulled a handgun from his pants and racked a round into the chamber holding the gun by his side. When the subjects learned 911 was called they walked away from the area. He handed the rearm o to his friend who was found to be in possession of the rearm on police arrival. Due to recklessly displaying a loaded rearm in a bar, he was charged with reckless display of a rearm. He was also very intoxicated and charged with disorderly intoxication.

APRIL 6

Not As Think As You Drunk I Am – DUI

James L Redman Pkwy/Kilgore Rd

An o cer conducted a tra c stop due to a tra c infraction. Upon contact with the driver the distinct odor of an alcoholic beverage was emanating from the person/breath. The driver had slurred speech and glassy and watery eyes. An o cer responded to the scene and conducted a DUI investigation. The subject consented to SFSEs which were not completed satisfactorily and was subsequently arrested for suspicion of DUI.

Pane in the Glass – Criminal Mischief

20 block of S Warnell St

An o cer responded to the above address and met with the complainant who reported multiple windows of the house were broken.

APRIL 8

Wanted – Warrant Arrest

4700 block of W Hwy 574

O cers responded to the above area as backup o cers in reference to a tra c crash

investigation. Upon arrival, contact was made with the suspect who had an active warrant out of Pasco County Sheri 's O ce for FTA, driving while license suspended. The suspect was arrested for his active warrant and transported to Orient Road Jail.

Late Burglary – Theft

1800 block of Blue Orchard

An O cer responded to the above location in reference to a delayed burglary. Contact was made with a representative who advised that two General Electric microwaves were stolen out of two separate homes, the microwaves were in the garage. The two microwaves were valued at $350.

Later Burglary – Theft

1800 block of Gardens Ave

An o cer responded to the above location in reference to a delayed burglary. Contact was made with a representative who advised that 10 Bailey Cabinets were stolen out of a garage for an under-construction home.

Looking for Trouble – Loitering and Prowling/Drug Arrest

1000 block of W McClendon St

O cers were noti ed of two subjects checking door handles in the area. An o cer saw a person who matched the description of one of the subjects. A search of the suspect’s belongings revealed drug paraphernalia and approximately 1 gram of methamphetamine. The suspect was arrested for Loitering and Prowling, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and possession of a Controlled Substance. He was transported to Orient Road Jail.

APRIL 9

Stolen Utility – Stolen UTV

400 block of N Frontage Rd

An o cer responded to the above listed location in reference to delayed theft. The complainant advised his 2019 Kubota RTVX1140 was stolen on 05/06/2023.

No Slamming Door – Theft

3700 Radiant Mountain Dr

An o cer responded to the above listed address in reference to a theft that had already occurred. Once on scene, contact was made with the complainant, who advised that three separate houses on the same street contained 34 doors inside their garages (estimated at $7,192.00) waiting to be installed. They were delivered the prior afternoon and were reported missing in the early hours of the morning.

PLANT CITY RESOLUTION HELPS STREAMLINE LIFE-SUPPORT COSTS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

According to the city, the Plant City Fire Rescue fees and charges for basic and advanced life support services need revising. The city’s resolution clari es and provides that the city manager has the authority to establish fees and charges for basic and advanced life support services by Plant City Fire Rescue.

For the city and it residents, establishing the fees will ensure charges for basic and advanced life support services remain current.

Currently, those fees are about $400 on average for a medical transport within Plant City. McDaniel said those fees could possibly increase if necessary based on the market.

The fees are subsidized through taxes and users of emergency services paying their user fees, a “proportionate share to help fund that service,” said McDaniel. Emergency transport and other services are paid through private insurance, Medicare or Medicaid in most instances.

“One thing about us and the way we provide service is we’re not here to make a pro t on ambulances,” he said. “We may add it up and it may cost $1,200 or $1,500 for that transport, well that’s not what we’re looking to ne collect.”

However, not all re rescue transport users are taxpayers in Plant City.

“You need to collect a rate for the service that helps cover the cost of providing it,” said McDaniel.

McDaniel said the nancial “annual reviews” would entail seeing what where the Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support emergency services market and what the city’s costs are versus what’s being charged for services – similar to setting building, planning and zoning and other types of fees.

PCFR Fire Chief Jeremy Sidlauskas said rates were at the discretion of McDaniel, who has the authority to establish rates. He said Plant City rates are “signi cantly lower” than other county re-rescue departments and having McDaniel establish fees helps PCFR e ciency.

“It de nitely streamlines the process. It allows more real-time action on individual’s billing if there’s a change to Medicare or Medicaid…that bills need to be altered up or down because of revenue surpluses or whatever,” said Sidlauskas, in his third month with PCFR. “It gives him the freedom as a city manager the discretion to make those decisions.”

PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL SALUTES MILITARY SIGNING DAY

Ten PCHS seniors commit to military service.

Tuesday morning, they were just 10 of about 2,530 students at school at Plant City High School.

But within two months, those 10, of 583 PCHS seniors, will be well on their ways to serving as part of the United States military.

For the rst time, PCHS held a Military Signing Day, a day when those students will soon sign o from textbooks and school bells and sign in to boot camp, drills, training and possibly future careers in the armed services.

Starting at 8 a.m. in the high school’s media center, sitting along a row of tables, the students listened as representatives of various military branches spoke words of re ection, inspiration and encouragement. In front of the student was a faux “o cial” contract, awaiting each of their signatures of commitment.

Just after the “signing,” Michael Houghtling, 18, stood pondering his committal decision.

“It’s really going good, knowing everything is coming together,” he said. “I hope in the future to become a Marine o cer, to become a pilot in the Marines and then retire.”

The other signees were: Jordanny Vicente, 17, Marines; Scott Ledbetter, 17, Army; Alejandro Carrizales, 18, Marines; Matthew Bollinger, 18, Marines; Johanna Munguia, 17, Army National Guard; Ayanna Helms, 17, Army; Briann Hawthorne, Navy; Jeremiah Futch, 17, Marines; Anna Jimenez, 18, Army Reserves.

The Military Signing Day was conceived by Tricia Shinneman, a PCHS Parent Teacher Student Association board member. Her son Zachary Shinneman, now 20, was is a 2022 PCHS graduate and is now a Guardian in the U.S. Space Force. Shinneman said she thought it was important the students to be acknowledged for the military life path decisions they’ve made.

“I want them to know there’s a community behind them,” said Shinneman, who also has daughter at PCHS, Chloe, 17. “We need to support these kids, to celebrate

their decisions and for them to know they have our support.”

At the signing day, o cial representatives of U.S. Marines, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army and U.S. Army National Guard were present. Those representatives included Master Sgt. Martin Soto, the PCHS Reserve O cers’ Training Corps coordinator.

During the signing, Soto said the new recruits may get a “shock treatment” when they get into the military seeing “things they’ve never seen before.” But, he added, if they stick with it -- even in “di cult times” -- military service bene ts can last a lifetime.

“If you stay there for more than 10 (years), continue going, do not get out. The military is a well-oiled machine, they will take care of you, your family” said Soto, a 27-year U.S. Army veteran and former eld artillery non-commissioned o cer who joined the military in 1984. “When I look at you, I see myself. Do good and the Army will take care of you, the Air Force will take care of you, everybody will take care of you.”

The future formal induction of the PCHS seniors into the various military branches is crucial. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, through Dec. 2023 through scal year 2024, the U.S. recruiting market is “challenging.” The Marine Corps, Air Force and Space Force achieved their scal-year-to-date recruiting missions through Dec. 2023; Army was short 2,109; Navy 2,924. From the reserves, only Marine Corps Reserve achieved its recruiting mission.

Another o cer at the signing, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Joe Cieslo, retired, PCHS senior Army instructor, said the signing of the students into the military should be noted just as the signing of athletes is.

“This is the real thing. Just like the signing of athletes, it’s just as important to recognize these students who have also made great career decisions to serve our country,” he said.

Shinneman said the plan is to have Military Signing Day an annual event at PCHS.

PAUL CATALÁ STAFF WRITER

IMPACT FEES

By July 1, 2024, new construction fees for police, law enforcement, re rescue, parks and recreation and transportation mobility will increase.

In March, the Plant City City Commission voted 5-0 to amend the city’s ordinances regarding impact fees, such as for law enforcement, already in place.

A 2022 study by consultant Alfred Benesch & Company, Tampa, showed the need to increase law enforcement and the other impact fees. Those fees apply to residential and commercial development and will be paid by those developments occurring after the e ective date of the new rates, which is July 1, 2024.

The Alfred Benesch & Company study was completed Jan. 30.

The change will a ect new development within the City of Plant City. For example, police impact fees will increase depending on the type of land use, according to the city: light industrial will increase from $205 to $312 per 1,000 square feet; o ce with 50,000 square feet will increase from $388 to $605 per 1,000 square feet; retail with 125,000 square feet will increase from $506 to $1,829 per 1,000 square feet.

Impact fees are used to provide additional capital facilities as a way provide more high quality services citywide.

There are no new charges or fees -- the ordinance amends existing impact fees, which are a one-time fee and only impacts new customers that build within the city limits.

And according to the city, although there are no new fees proposed, the city sta estimates the new growth could increase the annual police impact fee revenue by $700,000.

Of the various impact fees studied citywide, only library impact fees were reduced. The last impact fee rate study was completed in 2006 which established a rate schedule for law enforcement impact fees, which had been the same for 21 years.

“Law enforcement impact fees address the capital needs of expanding services for the growing population,” said Plant City Manager McDaniel.

Diane Reichard, Plant City chief nancial o cer, said the bene t of this amendment is for growth to keep up with the impacts on the community. She presented and discussed the agenda item during the March 25.

“It will allow us to provide equipment and services that impact the growth,” she said.

NARROWING THE FIELD

Search for new Plant City police chief down to five finalists

Chiquita Butler

EDUCATION:

EDUCATION:

Organizational Leadership, Union Institute and University

EDUCATION

EDUCATION:

May 30 will be Plant City Police Chief James Bradford’s last day behind the whistle.

McDaniel said those candidates will take part in a public meet-and-greet event, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., April 25, at Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Criminal Justice Management, Union Institute and University Institute (SPI) July 2015 Institute (SMIP) August 2021

• State University of New York , Empire State College, Master of Arts (M.A.) in Social & Public Policy

In Feb. 8, Bradford announced he would be resigning as the city’s police chief to move out of Florida to be closer to family in Virginia.

• State University of New York , Empire State College, Graduate Certificate in Community Advocacy

Bachelor of Arts – Psychology , Florida

Master of Arts – Criminal Justice Administration, University of South Florida

• State University of New York , Empire State College, Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminal Justice

• FBI National Academy, Session 276

CERTIFICATIONS

Shortly after Bradford’s announcement, Plant City sounded the alarm and began searching for his replacement to oversee the department’s 81 o cers.

FBI National Academy, Session 288

At the meet-and-greet event, McDaniel said the police department will be collecting feedback from the guests at the meeting. He said it’s important for the public to attend because they can meet the nalists, ask them questions and give the police department feedback on their feelings about each candidate.

CERTIFICATIONS:

• NYS Law Enforcement Accreditation Program Manager

EXPERI

ENCE :

Plant City Manager Bill McDaniel said the search for a new police chief is already well underway, with ve candidates already selected as nalists for the position.

• Managing Police Discipline

mid-November 2020 after former Chief Ed Duncan’s retirement at the end of 2020. More than 80 applicants for the position were submitted and when the eld of candidates was narrowed down to four, the city hosted a public meet-and-greet with each candidate. McDaniel hired Bradford, who had worked for the Hillsborough County Sheri ’s O ce for 31 years, shortly after.

Associate of Arts – Liberal Arts, Saint Leo University , Florida FBI National Academy, Session

-Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice Education , University of

Bachelor of Arts – International Studies, University o f South Florida

CERTIFICATIONS:

Master of Administrative Science – Fairleigh Dickinson University, Bachelor of Arts, Criminal Justice – Northeast Louisiana University, Louisiana Southern Police Institute, Class 142 – University of Louisville, Kentucky

• NYS Law Enforcement Accreditation Assessor

career I have held certifications in every High Liability area to Defensive Tactics, Vehicle Operations and Firearms Instructor

McDaniel, who served as Plant City Police Chief from 1996 to 2012, said he hoped the current police chief vacancy would be lled before May 31.

Administrative Officers Course

Police Executive Leadership Graduate Program

• Supervisory Special Agent , Drug Enforcement Administration

• Use of Force, Risk Management and Legal Strategies

They are:

EXPERIENCE

• Chiquita Thomas-Butler – assistant chief of police, Miami Police Department.

In the search for a new chief, McDaniel hired Baker Tilly, an executive recruiter for public sector positions, to nd quali ed candidates to ll the position, which was posted on several websites.

• Chief of Police, City of Watervliet, New York, Police Department - April 2021 -

Chief Executive Seminar, Class 50 Future Police Chiefs Training Seminar 265th Executive Leadership Institute

• Special Response Team Supervisor, Drug Enforcement Administration 2021 to Present

Police, City of Miami, Florida, July 2023 – Present Miami PD I have risen through the ranks and worked in every department.

• Joseph Centanni – chief of police, Water Vliet Police Department, New York.

• Captain of Detectives, City of Troy, New York, Police Department - February 1995

• Acting Group Supervisor, Drug Enforcement Administration, Tampa, F during 2009, 2014 and 2016

The initial review of applications took place Mar. 11.

EXPERIENCE

QUOTE

• Justin Duralia – Drug Enforcement Agency, supervisory special agent.

• Special Agent, Drug Enforcement Administration, Tallahassee, F Nov 2020

• James “Jim” McGrew – assistant chief of police, Tequesta Police Department.

QUOTE :

The consultant produced a list of 100 applicants which was reduced to 10 seminalists and that was reduced to the ve nalists,” McDaniel said Monday. “(The process) is moving along just ne.”

“The incoming chief has a prime opportunity to bolster ties with the growing Plant City population. Prioritizing proactive community engagement will serve as the cornerstone to upholding the city's reputation as a safe, desirable place to live, work and visit. As a we -centric leader focused on collective well-being, my approach emphasizes the welfare of my team and the public through active engagement, training, safety initiatives and leadership development This will strengthen public safety, foster community trust and ensure sustained success in the years ahead.”

• Assistant Chief of Police, Village of Tequesta, Florida, May 2016

• Police Officer/Detective, Largo Police Department, Largo, F

• Richard Mills, Jr. – major, Tampa Police Department.

quotes that I often recall to remind me of my purpose: walk backward.” -Abraham Lincoln faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is

As police chief, Bradford has been known for his leadership and strong commitment to public safety. He was hired in

• Interim Chief of Police, Village of

• Captain of Patrol, City of West Monroe, Louisiana, January 2014

• Detective Sergeant, City of West Monroe, Louisiana, June 2012

“I’ve been in awe of the ways in which the Plant City preparing for and welcoming progress, growth, and new challenges. Successful policing mirrors that approach, and I am personally motivated to be a part of Plant City’s future. ”

• Patrol Sergeant, City of West Monroe, Louisiana, March 2007 – May 2012

• Patrol Officer, City of West Monroe, Louisiana, May 1997 – 2007

November 1994 –Tampa, FL

December

While embracing an opportunity to become the new police chief, my goal Plant City Police Department the personification of excellence, innovation, partnership. With a focus on cops, community, and collaboration, we would City remains safe, vibrant, and inclusive for all residents. ”

• Deputy Sheriff, Union Parish Sheriff’s Office, November 1995 – May 1997

QUOTE:

I believe law enforcement executives should lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and inspire with a purpose. These core beliefs, along with transparency and collaboration, help forge a professional police department and builds rapport with the community.

PAUL CATALÁ STAFF WRITER

Justin C Dur alia

CHIQUITA THOMAS-BUTLER JOSEPH CENTANNI JUSTIN DURALIA JAMES “JIM” MCGREW

Richa rd M ills , J r

RICHARD MILLS, JR.

GENTLEMANLY GUIDANCE

New Young Gentlemen’s Academy focuses on mentorship, motivation for Plant City youth.

Tyler Klebowski sat and munched on pizza but it was the message and mission he really devoured.

Klebowski, 16, was one of about 60 people – students, parents, teachers, education administrators and others – who attended Plant City’s Young Gentlemen’s Academy Community Event April 11.

The Young Gentlemen’s Academy (YGA) is a new non-pro t organization equipping young men with the life skills to succeed academically, socially and personally. It’s currently open to young men from sixth to twelfth grades, but may open to females in the future.

Founded by Darrell Smith in April 2022, the mission of the YGA is to help develop futures through programs that “instill condence, promote e ective communication, develop con ict resolution abilities, foster leadership qualities and emphasize the importance of giving back to the community,” according to the YGA website.

At the 5 p.m. community event at The Crossing Church, 507 S. Wheeler St.,

about 60 boys, girls, parents, teachers, school administrators and their guests got to learn more about the new outreach organization.

During a presentation, Smith -- a Plant City native and 1988 graduate of Plant City High School – discussed the role of the YGA and its premise and plans within the community. Standing in front of a slide presentation in the church social hall, he said he hoped the YGA would be a transformative group for some.

“I grew up right here in Plant City, so very much, when I see young people…I see a younger version of myself and the same challenges they’re facing, we faced,” he said, before thanking his father and mother, George and Josephine Smith and stepmother, Mary Jo Smith, for being his mentors. “This is where my beginnings started.”

Smith, who lives in Riverview, said the YGA’s mission to help young men face challenges is through “empowerment,” “opportunities” and having a “strong support system.”

Behind Smith, presentation slides

informed guests about YGA’s “empowering through action,” how people can contribute to the cause and “The pillars of YGA,” – leadership, character development, academic excellence and community service.

Joining Smith in the presentation were YGA Vice-President Derek Carmen, Lisa James, principal of Apopka Memorial Middle School, Crossing Church Pastor Michael Pippen and Constance Mitchell, Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) coordinator, teacher and basketball coach at Durant High School.

“That’s what I like the most, the career opportunities they’re providing,” said Mitchell. “Kids need more mentors and we need to have more mentors to lead them in the right direction.”

Smith said he and YGA mentors meet with student members at schools for an hour to an hour and a half two times a month. During those sessions, they may discuss con ict resolution, team building, public speaking and proper personal presentation. He said he often visits Title 1 schools with a high percentage of “at-risk” students and holds 60-minute motiva-

tional group sessions, immersive one-day programs and an eight-month program for schools.

“Hopefully, they’ll want to become and be part of the program. I’m hoping with all the (YGA) resources, they’ll be able to land a job, go to college or develop a trade,” he said.

At the conclusion of the YGA Community Event, Klebowski continued to munch on his pizza. He said he felt the YGA’s focus on mentorship was one of its key points and helping members “ nd what they’re good at.”

“I think it will help them nd their places in society and in the future, help them reach their goals, said the Durant High School junior.

Smith also started a YGA chapter in Orlando in 2022.

For information on the Young Gentlemen’s Academy, see www.younggentlemenacademy.org or call (813) 495-3267.

PAUL CATALÁ STAFF WRITER

Young Gentlemen’s Academy founder Darrell Smith speaks to attendees at the organization’s Community Event April 11.

Young Gentlemen’s Academy founder Darrell Smith chats with Sa’Lyse Morgan, center, a 16-year-old sophomore at Durant High School and Jannaci Morgan, 18, a Durant senior, during Plant City’s Young Gentlemen’s Academy Community Event at The Crossing Church.

Students and gauests line up for pizza during the Young Gentlemen’s Academy Community Event at The Crossing Church.

Plant City History - The Kilgore Seed Company Building

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

The company bloomed to 14 store locations and began publishing its own mail-order catalog. The distribution peaked at 40,000 copies per year. The 1922 catalog listed dozens of vegetable seeds with hundreds of variations of squash, turnips, cucumbers, tomatoes, and corn. Products like Wizard Concentrated Manure (Weedless!), small farm implements, and chicken-raising products rounded out the catalog’s o erings.

In the early days of Kilgore, it began to crossbreed to develop its own vegetable strains. The same 1922 catalog also included Kilgore’s Stringless Valentine Beans, Kilgore’s Extra Selected Globe Tomatoes, and Kilgore’s Florida Flint white corn.

The Kilgore Seed Company made Henry so widely known that the Southern

Seed Convention elected him president for the 1926-1927 term. Then Florida voters elected him to the 1933 Florida House of Representatives. By 1959 the Kilgore Seed Company building had added a state-of-the-art laboratory to develop hybrid vegetables. However, in 1965 Kilgore moved to a new headquarters on Highway 39. In 1968, Upjohn, a Michigan-based company bought Kilgore, and in 1970 changed the name to Asgrow Florida Company.

The Kilgore Seed Company building is listed on the U.S. Department of the Interior’s National Register of Historic Places. The building has undergone facelifts but remains nearly unaltered from the day it was nished. The business currently residing in the building is The Mercantile, which o ers antique and vintage shopping.

Committed to Plant City.

Stafed with bankers who have deep roots in the Plant City area, our bank’s focus for 40 years has been to serve owner-managed businesses, professional frms, and families that want a strong, local connecton with their bank and banker. Come grow with us.

The full front view of The Kilgore Seed Company building today

Sign for the U.S. Department of the Interior’s National Register of Historic Places

The Kilgore Seed Company building’s rear loading dock in the 1920s. Photo courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives

Agricultural scientists seen working on developing hybrids in the Kilgore lab in 1959. Photo courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives

2024 VOLVO V60 PLUG-IN HYBRID MORE THAN JUST A WAGON!

Who says wagons belong to the past? It’s true you can count the wagons, primarily made by Audi and Mercedes-Benz, at your ngertips. And then there is Volvo with the V60 and larger V90. Based on the popular T8 S60 sedan, the 2024 Recharge plug-in hybrid V60 is tted with a 2.0-liter inline-4 turbocharged and direct-injection engine. It is paired with two electric motors backed by an 18.8 kWh lithium-ion battery to produce 455 horsepower and 523 poundsfeet of torque. Essentially, the V60 can go 41 miles on purely electric. Add an 8-speed auto gearbox and the start-stop feature (engine stops when the vehicle halts) to the mix and you have substantial savings in fuel as well as weight to produce an exceptional wagon.

31 mpg

Base price: $71,250

Price as tested: $72,925 Web site: www.volvo.com

Our test drive was equipped with the Polester Engineered (PE) upgrade, which translates into immediate and enhanced engine/throttle response and steadfast gear accuracy for an exhilarating drive. A partnership with Ohlins, a Swedish suspension technology brand, means road bumps are felt minimal and the driver is in complete control at sudden or quick turns on the road. Car racing enthusiasts, this is your dream ride!

Up front sits a high-gloss black mesh grille hosting not just the familiar Volvo iron mark but also the Polester Engineered motif, surrounded by horizontal LED headlights and a PE strut bar. Walk around the wagon and the PE signature gold-colored brake calipers and tire pressure monitor caps will pique interest. The gold theme continues as you step into the cabin with the metal color evident also on the seatbelts. Conveying an upscale aura NITISH S. RELE

is a 12.3-inch instrument panel and Nappa leather seats, tailored sport tilt/telescopic steering wheel and gear shifter. Volvo Sensus infotainment, with a distinct vertical 9-inch display touch screen, is essentially made up of four tiles: navigation, media, phone and user-de ned. Activate one and watch it expand while keeping the other tiles visible for future use. Fairly new for 2024 is a Google built-in Assistant, Maps and Play store. Standard amenities include two-zone auto a/c, charcoal headliner, Bowers & Wilkins sound system, panoramic sunroof and head-up display. The Chinese-owned but Swedish-made car company is renowned for safety.

Continuing the tradition, the V60 gets dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, driver knee airbag, lane departure/keep aid, blind spot information, cross tra c alert, rear park assist and sensors, adap-

tive cruise control, four-wheel antilock brakes, three-point seatbelts for all, side impact protection, dynamic stability and traction control, 360-degree camera, hill start assist and descent control, forward collision warning, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

Yes, it’s a wagon but don’t for a minute believe that your pricey ride will be slow. The all-wheel-drive vehicle can take o 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds. Apart from incredible nimbleness, the V60 boasts an extravagant cabin and no-frills capabilities. Volvo’s long safety list makes it a no-brainer!

Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabay.com and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.

Community Status Assessment online survey helps determine residents of Hillsborough County, Plant City needs, ends April 30

PAUL CATALÁ STAFF WRITER

The Community Status Assessment is a survey used that will be used to gauge the pulse of the physical and economic health of those living in Hillsborough County and more speci cally, Plant City.

The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is asking all Hillsborough residents to complete the 2024-2025 Community Status Assessment (CSA) Survey, open until April 30 at www.surveymonkey.com/r/CSAHillsborough

According to the department, the survey – done every ve years -- is one of the components of the Community Health Assessment (CHA) process. It is a way for community members to share their thoughts, opinions, beliefs and views on “current social, economic, cultural and environmental conditions that impact the health of our community.”

Jennifer Waskovich, community health division director, stated: “Our community health assessment process provides individuals who work, live, and play in Hillsborough County the opportunity to give input into how and where resources should be allocated to best meet the needs of the community. Our goal is to use the feedback we receive from Hillsborough County residents and partners to help develop an action plan with e orts that promote health and well-being for all.”

Completing the survey is a way to show how healthy Hillsborough County is and will identify current health- and economy-related needs in the county. It’s also a way to nd keys to making programs and services more e cient. Counties across Florida had been administering similar community status surveys since the early 1990s.

With them, community members and partners can work to develop initiatives to address and improve noted needs and completing the survey is one way that’s accomplished.

A private agency is contracted to administer the survey and analyze the data, which is given to the Department of Health, used to guide services needed in Plant City or any other community. The study collaboration is between The Department of Health Hillsborough County and community partners.

Wynton Geary, public information o cer for the Florida Department of Health Hillsborough County, said it’s important for both county and Plant City residents to take time to complete the survey because it will help allocate resources. He said the result will help highlight the service and program needs of Plant City as it continues to have a high population and job-growth rate.

Geary said by participating in the survey, it helps identify quality-of-life priorities that need to be addressed and appropriate resources to accomplish those priorities can be achieved.

“This will boost the local economy and improve the economic conditions for the residents,” said Geary, who’s been with the department since Nov. 2023. “As far as our goals with the survey, it’s to ensure we have programs and services that are tailored to meet their (Plant City residents) health needs and assist them in achieving prosperity and growth.”

The 2024-2025 Community Status Assessment (CSA) Survey is voluntary and anonymous. For more information, see hillsborough. oridahealth. gov/newsroom/2024/03/health-survey-2024.html or call (813) 559-4180.

SPORTS

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Homeschool student Cade Johnson, 17, is an avid golfer who is heading out to Ireland on April 27th and will be playing on six di erent golf courses.

How long have you been gol ng?

Almost 4 years.

What’s it like traveling to play golf?

It is really enjoyable, but it is also extremely challenging because I don’t always know the course very well.

What’s the hardest thing about golf?

Not letting my frustration after hitting a bad shot a ect the next shot or my overall game.

Where’s your favorite course of all time? Lone Palm.

What got you into gol ng?

My cousin Gavin started playing and wanted someone to play with.

Who’s your favorite professional golfer?

Rory McIlroy.

What’s some advice that you’d give someone who wanted to get into gol ng?

More practice equals less suck.

If you could improve how you play in any way, what would you choose and why?

I am working on improving all of my game, but especially my short game, to be more consistent and accurate, because I know that I can be better, and there is no reason why I shouldn’t strive to get better.

What’s the hardest course you’ve ever played on?

Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg.

What are your favorite songs to get you ready for golf?

I don’t really listen to music to get ready. I just pray that I would honor God in the way that I play.

CREST SHUT OUT BY WHARTON Cade Johnson

The Chargers entered Tuesday’s game riding a 5-game winning streak, outscoring teams 53-2 that span. Meanwhile, the Wildcats entered Tuesday’s game on a 2-game losing streak.

Chase Conti was the starting pitcher for the Chargers and started a lead-o strikeout. He did battle against Wharton’s second hitter on a 6 pitch at bat, but ultimately led to a y out to center eld. Conti escaped the inning hitless as the third Wildcat grounded out to shortstop.

Reuben Vasquez led o for the Chargers and was caught out by the pitcher on a hard hit ball. Toby Highsmith struck out on his rst at bad and Dillon Knight grounded out and the score heading to the second was 0-0.

Conti started the second just like he did the rst with a lead-o strikeout. The second batter of the inning grounded out to shortstop. Conti remained hitless heading to the bottom of the second as he scooped up a soft hit to him, throwing it to rst base for the out.

Akhil Nimmala, Chase Conti, and Nico Cappucci all got out on base in their rst

at-bats. It went to the third inning still 0-0, both teams still looking for their rst hit.

Conti continued starting the inning with a lead-o strikeout, his third at this point in the game. The second batter popped up to right eld for the second out. The rst hit of the game was from #55 on Wharton with an in eld single. The top of the inning ended after a nice diving catch by the Chargers left elder.

Matt Hall led o in the bottom of the third for the Chargers and struck out on a full count. Kaden Kuracka got caught out on a foul ball to the rst baseman. Saxon Shah got the Charger’s rst hit of the game on an in eld single. Shah got picked o at rst to end the inning and the score remained 0-0 heading to the fourth.

Landon Wood subbed in to start pitching in the fourth for the Chargers after Conti only allowed one hit through three innings. Wood walked the rst two batters and got pulled for Brayden Dicerb. He started on re, striking out the rst two batters he faced, which was followed up with a y out to center eld. It stayed 0-0 heading to the bottom of the fourth.

Reuben Vasquez was caught out on a foul ball. Toby Highsmith then ew out to center eld for two quick Charger outs.

Dillon Knight then ew out to left eld for a quick 3 up, 3 down for the home team.

Brayden Dicerb was back in at pitcher to start the fth and the lead-o batter grounded out to the Chargers second baseman, which was followed by a Dicerb strikeout. A hit by pitch, put the Wharton batter on rst with two outs, followed by a Wharton walked batter. A wild pitch by Dicerb ended up hurting the Chargers as Wharton got a 2-run, single with two outs. The Wharton runner stole second, but the following batter ew out to right eld. Wharton struck rst and led 2-0 heading to the bottom of the fth inning. Akhil Nimmala led o for his second at bat of the game and grounded out to the rst baseman. Chase Conti ew out to left eld for the second out of the inning, which then brought up Nico Cappucci, who grounded out to the pitcher to end the inning.

In the top of the 6th, the Chargers were trailing 2-0 and Wharton hit a solo shot home run on the very rst pitch of the inning. After the homer, Brisen Tweedy subbed in to pitch for the Chargers. He got his rst out of the inning as the batter grounded out to Nico Cappucci. The very next play was another Wharton groundout

for out number two. Tweedy walked the Wharton batter on a full count then got the Chargers out of the sixth after striking out the Wharton batter by throwing some absolute heat.

Matt Hall and Kaden Kuracka both struck out for the Chargers to start the bottom of the 6th. Saxon Shah then grounded out to shortstop to end the inning.

Brisen Tweedy came back out to start the seventh and the rst Wharton batter grounded out to second base. An error by Crest got the second runner of the inning on rst, followed by a single for Wharton, which put runners on corners with one out. A walk loaded the bases up for Wharton in the top of the seventh and they got a sacri ce y, bringing in another run to expand the lead. Wharton grounded out to end the top of the seventh and were up 4-0.

Reuben Vasquez grounded out which then brought Toby Highsmith to the plate and ew out in the in eld. Dillon Knight was up with Wharton one out away singled. Akhil Nimmala ew out to left eld and the game is over.

Wharton won 4-0, shutting out the Chargers.

PHOTO COURTESY HILLARY HARTLINE

The 12-6 Strawberry Crest Chargers baseball team hosted the 8-12 Wharton Wildcats Tuesday.

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

We asked Plant City: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Always buy the small box of Imodium AD.

J.R. Pitts

Actions SPEAK louder than words!

James Eric West

“Never let someone rent space in your head for free.”

Jennifer Jordan

Don’t stress over the things you have no control over.

Janet Crane Davis

Repent and be baptized

Barbara Skaggs Ward

Worry about your own self.

Cayla Baty

“You cant let your anxiety inhibit your natural ability”

JoBeth Newsome gave me some of the best advice right before my ACT!! Still saying it to myself to this day.

Kyle Hamilton

Pennies turn to nickels to dimes to quarters to dollars to thousands. Be wise.

Tina Garrett Hauser

Pre pay for your funeral!

Candice Phillips LeClerc

If you don’t need it, it’s not a bargain.

Carrie Jeanne

Don’t start no stu , won’t be no stu Cody Lenz

“You can go broke saving money.” In other words….Just because something is on sale or appears to be a good deal, doesn’t mean you have to buy it.

Robbie Jordan

It’s just a bad day not a bad life

Morgan Mullis

Mrs. Martha Roxane Davis Gann

Mrs. Martha Roxane Davis Gann, 61, of Valrico, Fla., left this world for her Heavenly Home Sunday, April 7, 2024, surrounded by family and friends. Roxane entered this world

November 14, 1962, in Plant City, Fla., daughter of Billie Daniel Davis and the late Gladdis Earline Gay Davis. After years as an insurance agent, she became a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, touching and enriching the lives of her family. She had a lifelong love of God’s beauty in this world, including mountains, lakes and especially the beach; beautiful sunrises and sunsets; music of all kinds; traveling with her husband, kids and grandkids often to share with them as many of these things as she could over the years. Survivors include her husband, Jack Gann, Father Billie Daniel Davis and Stepmother

Betty Jean Davis, Children

Ti any LaDawn English and Billy Jack Gann; Grand-

children Brianna Gould, Madison Gould, and Lexi Ford; Brothers Brent Davis and Todd Davis; and several nieces nephews and close friends, especially Lisa Surrency, who was Roxane’s dedicated and comforting friend until the very end. A gathering and celebration of life will be on Saturday, June 8, 2024. For further details please visit http:// tcfbc.org

James Dale Mullis

James Dale Mullis (61) of Plant City, Fla., passed away on Apr. 9, 2024. Dale was born to F.C. and Annette Mullis on Nov. 21, 1962. He is survived by his son Kyle Montana Mullis, daughter Brittney Mullis White, grandchildren Madison and Mason White, and siblings Pete Mullis, Dora Mullis, Freddy Mullis and Michael Mullis. Dale was always making those around him smile and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Dale was proceeded in death by his father, mother, and beloved sister Diane Mullis

Rhoden. Dale’s funeral will be held at James C. Boyd Funeral Home located at 602 South Collins St., Plant City, FL 33563, on Saturday, Apr. 20, 2024, at 11 a.m.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com

Ted Lamar Jones

Ted Lamar Jones, 78, of Lithia, Fla., born on June 28, 1945, entered into eternal rest on Apr. 10, 2024.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Darlene McCann

Darlene McCann, 86, of Lithia, Fla., born on Oct. 2, 1937, in Trinity, Kentucky, entered into eternal rest on Apr. 7, 2024.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Teresa Katherine Cook

Mrs. Beatrice Bryant Crowell

Mrs. Beatrice Bryant Crowell of Plant City, Fla., passed away on Sunday, Apr. 7, 2024. Born in Jasper, Fla., Aug. 15, 1937. Her memorial service will be held on Apr. 20, 2024, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church, 1840 State Rd 60 East, Plant City, FL 33567, with Pastor Demetrius A. Davis, O ciating.

Lisa Marie Henry

Lisa Marie Henry, 45, of Plant City, Fla., born on Mar. 11, 1979, in Camden, New Jersey entered into eternal rest on Apr. 3, 2024.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral. com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Christine “Chris” Rae Stern

Christine “Chris” Rae Stern, 70, of Valrico, Fla., born on Sept. 19, 1953, in Denver, Colorado, entered into eternal rest on Apr. 13, 2024.

Teresa Katherine Cook, 64, of Lithia, Fla., born on Feb. 14, 1960, in Plant City, entered into eternal rest on Apr. 9, 2024.

Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

AFTER SCHOOL ARCADE

Stop by the After School Arcade and try out a variety of video games and electronic entertainment, from Beat Saber to Mario Kart and a little bit of everything in between.

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Residents are invited and encouraged to par ticipate in public City meetings to ensure that their voice is heard and they are up-to-date on the things happening in the community. Residents can make public comments during meetings and attend meetings for the City Commission, Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, Historic Resources Board and more.

BEST FLORIDA JOBS POWER HOUR

HCC Trinkle Center, 1206 North Park Road

50+ local and national employers with jobs erent industries! Hiring managers on site as well as training programs ready to help you make more money!

Pre-register for free at BestFlorida-

FRIDAY, APRIL 26

BOOKMARKED: TEEN BOOK CLUB

4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

302 McLendon Street

Teen Program: Stop by our Teen Book Club at the library. Discuss The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes. Pick up your copy at the library or check it out digitally.

Ages 13-17.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

MIND MY SKIN…..BEYOND THE SURFACE

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center

302 South Maryland Avenue

Mental Health Forum "Mind My Skin: Beyond the Surface". This event will bring attention to viti-ligo awareness as well as other skin disorders and provide a variety of resources to assist those a ected by mental health due to living with a skin disorder. Vitiligo is a condition that is caused by in ammation in the body that results in the skin losing its natural pigment and color. Vitiligo a ects seventy million men, women, and children worldwide and causes signi cant challenges to mental health and self-esteem. Open to any individuals living with skin disorders and there will be free melanoma screenings.

BLUEGRASS NIGHT WITH REMEDY TREE

7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Krazy Kup, 101 East J Arden Mays Boulevard

Remedy Tree is Florida's hard-driving modern bluegrass band. Lyric-driven songs, footstomping energy and heartwarming melodies de ne Remedy Tree, a band focused on original music blending bluegrass, folk, and old-time music with new ideas creating a truly unique modern Americana sensation.

To have your event included in our calendar, visit the calendar section of our website at www.PlantCityObserver.com

Send your photo submissions to Sarah Holt at sholt@plantcityobserver.com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

FORECAST

THURSDAY, APRIL 18

High: 91

Chance of rain: 7%

FRIDAY, APRIL 19

High: 92 Low: 65

Chance of rain: 6%

SATURDAY, APRIL 20

High: 93 Low: 66

Chance of rain: 8%

SUNDAY, APRIL 21

RAINFALL MOON PHASES

High: 92 Low: 69

Chance of rain: 15%

MONDAY, APRIL 22

High: 87 Low: 56

BLUEBERRIES

Chance of rain: 40%

Kimberly Price took this photo of a majestic eagle near Chili’s.

That’s the BayCare effect. Where medical expertise meets timeless compassion.

When medical excellence is combined with empathy, it produces powerful results. It means never having to compromise on compassionate care. At BayCare’s new South Florida Baptist Hospital, you can expect clinical expertise, combined with the use of advanced technologies, delivered by a team that treats you like family–it’s all right here.

The new South Florida Baptist Hospital is opening soon! Join us for a special hospital preview event. Take a tour of the new hospital and visit the BayCare Health Village to learn more about services that we’ll be providing to the Plant City community.

Hospital Preview Event

Sunday, April 21 | 11am–2:30pm

3202 N. Park Road | Plant City

To register or to learn more:

NewSouthFloridaBaptist.org