6.24.21 PLCO

Plant City Observer

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VOLUME 6, NO. 151

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FREE • THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

WATER METERS GOING DIGITAL Commissioners have agreed to start the process of updating water meters throughout the city, which will grant both staff and customers the ability to monitor water readings immediately online or on their phone.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

A change is coming to the homes and businesses in Plant City that rely on city water.

Commissioners agreed to begin the process of transitioning the city’s Automatic Meter Reading Devices to Automatic Meter Interface Devices via a contract with Badger Meters, Inc. This will be a process that will take several years to complete, but the first steps are now underway. Once completed it will completely evolve the process of monitoring

water usage in the city for both city staff and for customers themselves.

“This is something they’ve been researching for a while now and they ran a pilot program in 2019 with 43 residential and 32 commercial to test it,” City Manager Bill McDaniel said. “Sometimes things sound good, but then you start testing it and realize it either isn’t a good fit or it isn’t what you thought it would be. But this has really been everything we were hoping it would be.”

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LOCAL BOXING GYM OWNER GETS ANOTHER WIN Photo courtesy of Damon Gonzalez/LatinBox Sports

Jose Rodriguez secured his second victory last Friday, moving to 2-0.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Set to turn 50 years old just days later, Plant City Boxing Gym owner Jose Rodriguez moved his professional record to 2-0 after securing a victory via corner stoppage following the first round of his second professional fight last Friday.

Rodriguez’s opponent Jeremy McGuire, 45, entered T&K Promotions’ Florida Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend event carrying an 0-1 record.

After the opening bell sounded, Rodriguez kept pressure throughout the round, throwing a number of heavy right hooks despite fighting through what would later be revealed as a broken hand suffered less than a month before the scheduled bout.

Rodriguez scored a knockdown that ultimately resulted in a broken nose for McGuire and his corner called a stop to the fight before the start of the second round.

“We just go to war in there and take care of business,” Rodriguez said after his win. “Win, lose, or draw, I’ll be aggressive because I’ve got to keep you thinking.”

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS

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Florida Southern College welcomes Plant City Photo Archives staff Staff members of Plant City Photo Archives and History Center were welcomed at Florida Southern College’s McKay Archives for a tour of the facilities on June 21, 2021.

The tour was part of the Photo Archives’ Internship Program wherein interns observe archival practices and procedures at other professional archives.

Florida Southern Archivists Gerrianne Schaad and Amy Skillen were proud to welcome Plant City Photo Archives Executive Director Gil Gott, Erin Schulte, a graduate of Florida State University and current intern at the Photo Archives, and Volunteer Sarah Harvester, a Plant City High School senior, for a tour of the Sarah D. and L. Kirk McKay, Jr. Archives Center.

Schaad, who is very active with the Society of Florida Archivists and has over 30 years of experience in archives man-

agement, has been with Florida Southern College since 2015 and led the tour.

The Sarah D. and L. Kirk McKay, Jr. Archives Center collects, organizes, preserves and describes the institutional history and records of Florida Southern College, its faculty and alumni papers, records of several Florida politicians associated with the college, and the history of Florida Citrus.

The Center also houses the Governor Lawton M. Chiles Center for Florida History and the Ruth K. and Charles T. Thrift, Jr., Florida United Methodist Heritage Center.

GFWC Women’s Club of Plant City organizes second annual Food Drive The GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City is organizing their second annual Food Drive to support the Plant City Food Bank. This year the club is focusing on helping them put together kid’s food bags.

The club will have a Drive-Thru, Food for Kids Food Drive at their clubhouse, 1110 N. Wheeler St., on July 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The most-needed items include cereal, peanut butter, jelly, macaroni and cheese, breakfast bars and soup. You can also make a donation by sending a check made to the Plant City Food Bank, or made to the Woman's Club and write Food Bank on the memo line. Address all donations made to the Women’s Club to GFWC Woman's Club of Plant City, Inc. P.O. Box 3282, Plant City, Fl. 33563 For more information, or if you are unable to deliver the food on the day of the event, please contact president Patricia Wolff at 941-725-1135 before June 15.

Hillsborough County to give away free mosquito fish Hillsborough County Mosquito Management Services will be giving away free

mosquito fish to help reduce mosquito breeding in the Tampa Bay area. All county residents, including those who live in Tampa, Temple Terrace and Plant City, are eligible to receive the free fish.

Small, native freshwater fish that eat mosquito larvae, mosquito fish require no feeding and can be placed in standing water like backyard ponds, fountains, animal troughs and unused swimming pools to effectively manage mosquito populations. Additionally, their care is limited to protecting them from exposure to garden sprays, chlorine and other chemicals used for cleaning.

Mosquito fish will be available for pickup in Plant City while supplies last on Aug. 7 at Mike E. Sansone Community Park, 1702 N. Park Rd. and from 8 a.m. to noon on Sept. 11, 2021 at Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park, 100 Alderman Ford Parks Dr. Due to social distancing protocols, the event will be drive-thru only and a photo ID will be required to show that you live in Hillsborough County.

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FOURTH OF JULY

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

AT THE PC STADIUM RETURNS

The city’s annual Forth of July event has returned after its one year hiatus.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The City of Plant City’s largest community event is back on the calendar this year and fireworks will soon shoot once more into the night sky.

In 2002 the City of Plant City decided it was time it offered a unique event for the community in honor of Independence Day. It ran continuously until 2007, when lack of funding caused the event to stop for four years. In 2012 the party started once more and ran without fail until COVID-19 had the city — and the rest of the world — pumping the brakes on all gatherings as the community stayed apart to keep one another safe.

Now, however, with the percentage of vaccinated American’s slowly increasing the City of Plant City felt it was safe to light up the sky.

“A large part of what makes Plant City unique is the small-town charm it has and we want to try to hold on to that as long as possible,” Parks & Recreation Director Jack Holland said. “This event is part of that charm. We want to, of course, embrace the future, but we also want to hold on to traditions that make this such a unique place. People really missed the fireworks last year and we are excited to be able to bring it back this year. I hope people just come out and have a good time, relax and interact with others. It’s

a great event to take away some of the stress of the past year.”

This year’s celebration is Sunday, July 4 at the Plant City Stadium, 1810 East Park Road. The parking lot gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the stadium gates will open at 6:00 p.m. The rain-out date is July 5 with fireworks only and will be scheduled for 9:00 p.m. and the gates opening at 8:00 p.m. if the rains cancel the party the day before.

Holland said the city is asking people to follow CDC guidelines when attending. Those vaccinated can arrive maskless, but those who are not vaccinated are asked to wear their mask. The event is outdoors, which aids in the safety of the experience, and Holland said it will be voluntary compliance. Everything else is essentially the same as before the pandemic.

Like in prior years, there will be various activities available for attendees spread throughout the stadium turf.

These include some of the family favorites like inflatables and balloon art, along with corn hole, rock climbing, bungee jumping and more.

Admission to the event is free and parking costs $5 per car. No parking will be allowed on the roadways near the complex along Park Road, Jim Johnson Road, Roberts Ranch Road and Gordon Food Service Drive. The stadium parking lot will be open for attendees to fill for the event. Once the show has ended

event traffic will flow one-way as vehicles exit the parking lots onto East Park Road and Gordon Food Service Drive.

No coolers or any outside food or drinks will be allowed into the stadium.

No alcohol is allowed on the property.

Bags and backpacks will be subject to search at the stadium entrance.

There will be plenty of food to purchase at the stadium itself for those interested in hanging out all night. The concession at the stadium will be open with things like hotdogs, chips and drinks and there will be a variety of food vendors on the turf, including a dessert vendor so people can get their sweet treats as they watch the fireworks soar. A 50-50 drawing will also be offered with proceeds split between the winner and the event for future expenses.

The Double Barrel Band will be performing live throughout the event and the National Anthem will be sung at 9:00 p.m. The 20 minute fireworks show is planned for 9:15 p.m. following announcements from the stage.

“I really do want to thank our sponsors, because without our sponsorships this is simply not possible,” Holland said. “This isn’t a city-funded event. Without our businesses and organizations stepping up and supporting this year after year, we wouldn’t be able to host this for the community. The city covers some of the hard costs with police, fire, venue and other areas. Then everyone else steps up and

takes care of the rest. We cannot thank our sponsors and our vendors enough for the support we receive year after year.”

Financial sponsorships and in-kind contributions cover the hard costs of the event, with the city’s contribution to the event being the venue and staff support from Police, Fire Rescue, Streets, Solid Waste, General Services, and the Parks & Recreation Department.

Financial and in-kind sponsors for 2021 include the Florida Strawberry Festival, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and its volunteers, the City of Plant City, Stingray Chevrolet, Global Sports Alliance, Haught Funeral Home, Hillsborough Title, Jarrett-Scott Ford, the Plant City Observer, Miller Pro Sound, Gordon Food Service, Toufayan Bakeries, Brewington’s Towing, Lakeland Mookwalk, Dignity Wells Memorial & Event Center, TownePlace Suites Plant City, Boss Hog Radio 1330 AM, and the Friends of Recreation & Parks.

For more information, go to the City of Plant City web site, www.plantcitygov. com, and search “July 4 Celebration” or call the Parks & Recreation Department weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 813-659-4255. You can also visit plantcitygov.com/parksrec/page/july4th-celebration.

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COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

PLANT CITY

Observer

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City Police investigate stolen headlights, a broken windshield and an altercation

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

between coworkers.

Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com

istock

Staff Writer / Breanne Williams BWilliams@PlantCityObserver.com

JUNE 11

JUNE 13

GONE WITH THE SCHWINN

PLAYING TAG

1300 block of E. Baker St. Petit theft, bicycle: Officers made contact with a victim in reference to a Schwinn 18-speed women’s bicycle that was taken from the front of a business.

1300 block of W. Ball St. Criminal mischief: Officers made contact with a victim who alerted them that his vehicle had been vandalized by an unknown suspect.

JUNE 12

JUNE 14

LEFT BROKEN

RIDING DIRTY

1400 block of E. Alabama St. Criminal mischief: Officers met with the victim who reported that the windshield and rear window of her car had been broken and shattered.

2000 block of N. Wheeler St. Drug paraphernalia/RAWOV: Officers observed the suspect riding his bike through a closed business parking lot. He was then arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting arrest without violence.

LOST AND FOUND 1200 block of W. Ball St. Stolen vehicle recovery: Officers recovered a Chevy Cruz that had previously been reported stolen.

substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

JUNE 15

DOUBLE TROUBLE 300 block of S. Frontage Rd. Warrant arrest: While conducting the above arrest, the suspect pointed to a vehicle that was pulling into a nearby parking space, claiming that the individual in the vehicle had an active warrant. The individual’s identity was confirmed by one of the officers on scene as he exited the vehicle and the officers then made contact with him, where he provided his name and date of birth. Florida Crime Information Center confirmed that the individual had an active warrant for burglary of conveyance with no battery/assault/weapon and he was subsequently transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

JUNE 16

SENT PACKING 300 block of S. Frontage Rd. Drug arrest: Officers arrested the suspect at the location on charges of possesion of a controlled

YOU SHOES, YOU LOSE

hicle burglary in which the victim claimed that an unknown suspect had entered his vehicle and stolen shoes

Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

CRACKING UNDER PRESSURE 1000 block of Fairwinds Cir. Battery: Officers met with two coworkers who, while pressure washing the exterior of an apartment complex, ended up in a physical altercation after one believed that the other had been purposefully spraying him with the pressure washer. After officers arrived, both parties admitted to hitting each other and signed a waiver of prosecution.

LIGHTS OUT 300 block of E. Calhoun St. Burglary business: Officers were alerted that an unknown suspect had gained access to a fenced in property and removed the headlights from a new 2021 truck.

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

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4000 block of Silverspring Dr. Vehicle burglary: Officers responded to a reported ve-

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

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UPGRADES TO METERS AHEAD

The AMR meters the city has been using for years will soon become AMI meters, allowing both city staff and customers to have immediate access to their water usage.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Images courtesy of the City of Plant City.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The AMI devices communicate from the meter to the software through cellular towers, which will completely eliminate the need to drive by customer’s homes and businesses to obtain readings.

Denise McDaniel, utility billing manager said this will mean city staff no longer need to drive around all day long checking on readings as they can access the information from the office. That will free up employees to do other duties in the department like talking to customers about water concerns.

The city manager added that the element designed into the meters that is accessible by the public is one of the things he is most excited for from this process. The meters also have an “Eye On Water” service that

essentially lets customers immediately connect to the meter and track water consumption data.

There are many examples of why that instant access that customers can pull up on their phone is revolutionary. The example Denise McDaniel emphasized in her presentation of the project to commissioners was that no longer would residents go on vacation or head out of town and then come home to a flooded house and a skyhigh water bill.

Customers can instead receive leak alerts via text or email and then call the city to have the water turned off until they can return and deal with the issue.

While it’s not an issue that happens often, when it does it can be devastating, a fact that Mayor Rick Lott pointed out last week by having anyone in the audience who

had dealt with a leak while they were out of town raise their hand. A significant percentage of those in attendance threw their hands up, including several sitting commissioners.

Denise McDaniel said the hope is that customers will also begin or continue with more depth to analyze their water consumption.

When they can have an immediate glimpse at the water usage for their home or business they can start to identify trends and make more informed decisions on their habits and water usage choices.

The plan is for all new customers to pay to have an AMI meter installed, which currently costs $274.42 for a 5/8-inch meter, $39.49 more than an AMR meter. Then, as batteries in the AMR devices die, they will be replaced with AMI meters at the City’s

expense. This process will take five to ten years depending on the funding provided to this capital project.

Staff said the plan is for new development, like the new subdivisions and industrial/commercial buildings to get the AMI meters first.

If you already have a meter you will not be paying for the new one, you just have to wait until the current device is replaced by the city.

The current fiscal year has $200,000 available for the AMR meters that need battery replacements and the proposed fiscal year 2022 budget will include $230,000, which will cover 1,150 meters.

Commissioners unanimously agreed to support the project in a 5-0 vote last Monday.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

COMMISH ROUNDUP: BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS AND REAPPOINTMENTS FILLED LAST WEEK’S MEETING The last city commission was a long night for attendees as commissioners slowly worked their way through a heavy agenda.

Courtesy of City of Plant City

Courtesy of City of Plant City

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Last week’s commission meeting covered a variety of bases as the city reappointed representatives, altered the budget and set several public hearings.

FILLING THE DAIS

City Commissioner Rick Lott was chosen to continue to serve as Plant City’s mayor.

Lott then selected Commissioner Mike Sparkman to serve as his vice mayor. The mayor is selected from the commissioners, by the commissioners. He then gets to pick who he wishes to serve as vice mayor.

Commissioner Mary Thomas Mathis was sworn in for a new term last week after an uncontested election. Commissioners then selected the Community Redevelopment Agency Chair and Vice Chair, which they decided to keep the same as the leadership of the city commission.

Then they went through the annual duty of designating representatives to different organizations. The Council of Governments has two members, Plant City Economic Development Corporation has one representative, Ridge League of Cities has one member and one alternate, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council has one member and one alternate, Tourist Development Council has a member and Transportation Planning Organization has one member and one alternate.

Everything remained the same as it has been for years, except that Mayor Lott

asked Commissioner Nate Kilton to switch seats with him for the Transportation Planning Organization.

Lott has been the longest serving member in the group’s history and wants to become the alternate with Kilton taking first chair so that they can switch up the representation at the table.

Commissioner Mathis was also chosen to serve on the Affordable Housing Board as an alternate, which is a new position for the city.

CONTRACT APPROVAL

The commissioners authorized the city manager to execute 40 contracts for continuing engineering services and to execute up to four, single-year renewals for each contract. The City of Plant City uses “continuing contracts for engineering services when projects are estimated to be less than the statutory threshold of $4 million for construction and $500,000 for design or a study.”

Contracts in several categories have nearly all expired and so Procurement, in conjunction with Engineering and Utilities, developed a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to replace the current contracts. The RFQ was posted on Nov. 5, 2020 and by Dec. 10, 2020 the city had received 64 responses.

The categories were: General Engineering, Transportation, Environmental, Stormwater, Geotechnical, Water & Wastewater, Sub-Surface Utility, Instrumentation & Controls, Electrical and Registered Surveying & Mapping.

Combine & Save.

An evaluation committee consisting of Lynn Spivey, Tonya Grant, Hye (Jay) Kwag, Pauline Nunez, Tatyana Austin, and Matthew Benton met on Feb. 17, 2021 and selected 40 firms for continuing contracts.

Most of the firms selected are qualified in multiple categories.

PASSING THE REINS ON TURKEY CREEK

The county is officially taking over the Turkey Creek Road Enhancements project.

City Manager Bill McDaniel announced last Monday that an Interlocal Agreement with Hillsborough County was ready to be approved.

In May 2013 the city and county entered into an interlocal agreement to provide funding for the Turkey Creek Road Improvement Project. Then in 2015, the City of Plant City hired HDR to design the project improvements that include reconstruction and widening of approximately1.2 miles of the road and widening of 950 linear feet along another part of the road. The design also discuses widening 800 linear feet of Airport Road approaching Turkey Creek Road and realigning the intersection of Airport and Turkey Creek from a skewed intersection to a 90-degree T-intersection. It also called for the installation of a new mast arm traffic signal system at the intersection. Finally the design discussed the relocation and adjustment of associated utilities, including potable water, wastewater, sanitary sewer force main, new conduit piping and removal and disposal of abandoned utilities.

Then on Aug. 31 Procurement published an Invitation to Bid on the project and the bids were received by Nov. 19.

Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC was the lowest responsive bid, coming in at $10,465,509.52. That bid exceeded the entire project budget so the city manager and the county administrator came to an agreement that the county should assume full responsibility for the construction of the project.

According to the City of Plant City, “This agreement would equally benefit the county, the city, and our citizens. The county would accept the city’s procurement process, award the bid, and provide project management. The city would pay for the portion of the project that directly benefits the city’s infrastructure.”

When commissioners approved the resolution last week they also approved a budget adjustment to transfer funds within projects to send a cash payment to the County of $6,240,265.13, which was paid from: • ST020 – Airport Road Realignment - $820,007.39 • ST022 – Airport Road/Turkey Creek Road Signalization - $126,356.84 (City’s portion) • NEW – Water/Sewer Utility Line Relocation - $2,512,700.66 • ST021 – Turkey Creek Road $2,781,200.24 ($3 million reimbursement less expenses) The report said that the project should be completed within 22 months of the Notice of Intent3/25/21 to- Lakeland Award.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

SECOND PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT ON HORIZON AT LAKESIDE LOGISTICS Courtesy of Foundry Commercial

The industrial park is entering the next phase of development

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

A second phase of development is now underway at Lakeside Logistics.

The more than 1,000 acre industrial park on Henderson Way in Plant City had its groundbreaking in July 2019 and the first phase of development delivered a 36 foot clear, 500,160 square foot, cross-dock warehouse distribution facility.

“The I-4 corridor continues to be attractive to logistics users looking to cover a broader population base. Diminishing options for speculative industrial development in East Tampa, together with explosive growth in Plant City and Lakeland, is paving the way for developments of this nature,” Moses Salcido, SIOR, Managing Director/Principal of Development for Foundry Commercial, said. “The second

phase of Lakeside Logistics provides an institutional-grade option for both local and regional distribution needs for these markets.”

Foundry Commercial and Stockbridge announced earlier this month they have closed on the second speculative development at Lakeside Logistics.

The development will include two buildings totaling 414,000 square feet. Foundry Commercial plans to develop additional phases at Lakeside Logistics, which – when finished – will total over 1 million square feet.

To date, Foundry Commercial has developed over 8 million square feet in the industrial asset class, with another 6 million currently under development.

Foundry was also involved in the initial development at Lakeside Logistics. Salcido said the company hopes to deliver the two buildings in the next 10 to 12 months and

is aiming for an April/May 2022 timeframe for opening. The strategy for the current development is a bit different than the initial project as the company is aiming to build two smaller buildings to draw in tenants that are looking for decent sized spaces without needing a massive warehouse.

“With the scarcity of land in the area and the limited supply of development of this nature, finding a spot like Lakeside Logistics that is near I-4 and situated between Orlando and Tampa is such a benefit for tenants,” Salcido said. “Much of the growth we are seeing not only in Plant City, but also in west Lakeland, was really driven by the demand that started in Tampa.

The Tampa market has proven to us that they’re migrating east and while Plant City is still new to the game, they are certainly becoming a valued destination for these types of developments.”

Salcido said additional phases down the road will focus on a common theme: furthering access via roadway construction. He said there are two more phases — perhaps even three — planned at Lakeside.

The next phase(s) will focus on larger buildings, 500,000 and 650,000 foot buildings, which Salcido said will easily attract a larger tenant as agreements of that size require intense prior planning.

The property is set to accommodate a variety of further development and could sustain quite a bit more than what is planned if the need arises. However, the groups are taking one step at a time and are focusing on bringing the current two buildings to life and marketing the next two phases before looking any further ahead.

For continuing project updates as Phase II gets underway, visit lakesidelogistics. info.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

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JUNETEENTH MARKET MASSIVE SUCCESS FOR G.R.O.W. The Bing Rooming House Museum’s lawn was filled with vendors and attendees Saturday for G.R.O.W. Plant City’s first event.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The heat may have caused the Italian ice line to remain packed Saturday, but the crowds kept coming to celebrate Juneteenth at G.R.O.W. Plant City’s inaugural Laura Street Market.

Home-cooked food, including barbecue and delectable deserts, was being purchased in mass quantities by attendees, many of whom camped out for several hours Saturday. The unique local small businesses spread throughout the property showed just why it’s crucial to shop

local. You could pick up everything from bracelets to athletic apparel, from art to perfume.

The DJ drew many to an impromptu dance floor and G.R.O.W. Plant City members tested the attendee’s knowledge with trivia questions. Those who answered correctly received vouchers they could redeem at any vendor on site.

G.R.O.W. Plant City proved it is a group to be watched as it sailed through its first event with ease. You can currently follow G.R.O.W. Plant City on Instagram and Facebook or you can email growplantcity@ gmail.com to learn more.

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JUNE 24, 2021

SPORTS RODRIGUEZ CLAIMED HIS SECOND VICTORY IN AS MANY FIGHTS The bout was stopped after the first round.

Quick Hits PCHS SELECTED TO ATTEND 2022 SPECIAL OLYMPICS USA GAMES On the heels of their second consecutive state championship, the first team from Plant City High School to win two state titles, the Raiders’ Unified basketball team has been selected to participate in the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando.

Held every four years and scheduled for June 5 through June 12 next summer, the event is set to be the largest Special Olympics Games in history with over 5,500 athletes and coaches from all 50 states and the Caribbean. The games will play host to 20 Olympic-style team and individual sports along with 30 events throughout the week.

Three years ago Plant City’s team made their way to Seattle for the games where they finished third.

Photo courtesy of Damon Gonzalez/LatinBox Sports

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

With his hand raised before a crowded ballroom at the St. Petersburg Marriott Clearwater, including his fellow trainers and some of the gym’s young fighters in attendance, Rodriguez was able to soak in another special moment. For the first time, he fought with his son Luis Ocasio, 20, in his corner. Ocasio had been at his father’s fights before, but had never before shared the corner with Rodriguez’s trainer Jason Crosby.

“It’s very meaningful for me,” Ocasio said. “This is something that he’s always wanted and to see him accomplish his dreams, it only motivates me to accomplish mine as well. And knowing that he’s doing it at the age of 50, and I’m young

now? It’s telling me, ‘Hey, if he’s doing it now, get on your grind and do your thing.’”

But as Rodriguez has said before, his two professional bouts have not been solely about winning. Win, lose, or draw, these fights work as examples to show the young fighters at Plant City Boxing Gym, like Eric Denson what can be accomplished at any age with hard work and perseverance.

At 16, Denson has amassed a 16-4 record himself as an amateur boxer.

“Just training with him, we’ve built a father-son relationship,” Denson said about the six years that he’s been training under Rodriguez. “It’s not really coach anymore, it’s a father-son relationship. And seeing him

train at 50 years old is crazy, sparring with him is crazy. At 50, he’s not really 50, he moves like he’s 25.”

And despite his age, Rodriguez isn’t done. He has accomplished his dream of turning pro and has even found some success doing it. While his future in the sport is uncertain, he still has one more fight scheduled for later in the summer on Aug. 28.

“It’s a great thing,” Rodriguez said. “It’s lovely. Without God, none of this would have happened.”

Taylor Jenkins is the Sports Writer at the Plant City Observer. Email: tjenkins@ plantcityobserver.com.

PLANT CITY RAIDERS WIN KING OF KINGS 7-ON-7 TOURNAMENT

In their second and final summer tournament, the Raiders were crowned champions.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Plant City High School’s football team took part in their second and final 7-on-7 tournament of the summer last weekend, crowned champions following an undefeated run through the bracket.

The King of Kings 7-on7 tournament — hosted by the Fellowship of Chris-

tian Athletes in partnership with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at the Tournament SportsPlex of Tampa Bay on Saturday— welcomed 40 teams to the competition this year.

Following pool play, which included 10 different groups of four teams, the Raiders made their way into tournament play.

Plant City went 3-0 in pool play before advanc-

ing to the championship round with a 20-6 win over Osceola, a 12-6 win over Bloomingdale and a 28-13 win over Sickles in the tournament semifinals. In the finals, the Raiders claimed the title with a 21-14 victory over American Collegiate Academy.

Photo by Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

SEE PAGE 10

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

PLANT CITY CLAIMS YET ANOTHER SUMMER TITLE

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Head coach James Booth is no stranger to winning the King of Kings tournament with Plant City however, taking back-to-back titles at the event in his first two seasons with the Raiders. The event has since moved from Lakeland to Tampa, offering a larger venue and larger number of teams in attendance.

“I thought that it was ran really efficiently and there was a lot of great competition out there,” Booth said. “You’re able to see some of these teams that you might be playing in the season and kind of build that rivalry going into it. Obviously it’s June and there’s a long way to go and hopefully we continue to improve just as other teams are looking to improve as well, but it does give you a bit of confidence going into the beginning of fall camp and preparing your guys for a long road ahead.”

While the tournament itself is limited to skill positions on offense and linebackers and defensive backs on defense, the event also held a Big Man Camp for offensive and defensive linemen, as well as a punters and kickers clinic.

And in a football-crazed state like Florida, preparing for the Friday night lights of fall is a year-round job. While coaching staffs can largely piece together what the following season’s starting lineups will look like in spring practices, these summer tournaments and joint practices with other schools help Booth and other coaches find those fringe players who may be ready to make an impact on varsity.

“For our returners, it just solidifies our timing and helps us correct route running,” Booth said.

“So for our guys that are returning, that have been in the system, it does allow them to get a little more coaching with us and some competitiveness going on. But it also allows us to throw some guys into the fire and see the ability that they have.”

One of those young players that was thrown into the fire and came out a potential standout was receiver C.J. McClain, a rising sophomore, as he hauled in the go-ahead touchdown in Plant City’s championship game.

And those evaluations may be more important than ever for the Raiders right now. Plant City wasn’t able to field a junior varsity team in 2020, leaving many young players without valuable, developmental game reps each week and limited to practicing alongside the varsity squad. Starting quarterback Nicholas Felice and the team’s top four receivers were all graduating seniors last year. Most notably, wide receiver Mario Williams, set to play for Oklahoma in the fall as ESPN’s top-rated pass-catcher in the 2021 class.

“We’ve lost a high number of contributors due to graduation so we’ve got a lot of open spots,” Booth said.

“But through the spring we were able to identify some of those guys that are going to fill those roles and some new roles have been identified for our kids, some leadership roles and some roles where they will have to be relied more on. So our guys will have an opportunity to compete.”

Photo by Plant City Football

July 4th Celebration!

The City of Plant City Parks & Recreation Department and The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce are

excited to announce the annual July 4th Celebration!

This is a formal invitation for your family to join us at the event!

Located at Plant City Stadium, 1810 E. Park Rd., Sunday July 4th.

6:00 PM– 9:30 PM. Free admission with a $5 dollar parking fee.

In-stadium vendors, food vendors, live band. Fun and Fireworks!

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

PlantCityObserver.com

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

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This week we asked Plant City: What are your plans for the summer?

“My plans for the summer are to go to the beach, hang out with friends and hopefully get into some summer classes.”

- Isabella Flores “My plans for the summer are finishing my summer classes, working, hanging

out with my friends and buying some new shoes, of course.”

- Daphne Mendoza “My plans are to visit family, to travel and to hang out with my friends.”

- Andrea Garcia

“My plans for the summer are pandemicpending, of course. I will be coming back to Krazy Kup when I’m back in Plant City because I live in Lakeland. Other than that, we are probably going to travel up north to try and get some cool weather and just try to get out a little bit more.”

- Donna Gellman-Rodriguez

“We live in Lakeland and we love to come here to Plant City, one of my favorite hangouts is here. My plans are pretty similar to my wife, but we are really anxious to get moving again and to try and live our normal life again from now on.”

- Mauricio Rodriguez

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

Barbara Ann Dack Corser, 79, of Valrico, Florida, formerly of Onondaga and Tompkins Township, Michigan, born in Eaton Rapids, Michigan on November 30, 1941, entered into eternal rest on June 15, 2021. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

James ‘Papa’ Jurnigan James “Papa” Jurnigan, 86, of Plant City, Florida, born in Waycross, Georgia on November 8, 1934, entered into eternal rest on June 18, 2021. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Jon Louis Courson, Jr. Jon Louis Courson, Jr., resident of Florida

Presbyterian Homes in Lakeland, Florida, passed away on June 17, 2021 at age of 91.

Jon is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Peggy, his daughters Elaine Wiseman and Lyris Newman (Eric), brother Jerry Courson (Tracy), grandchildren Stephanie and Jeffrey Wiseman (Lindsey), Drew Newman (Ariel), Greg Courson Jr. and Jon Courson IV, and greatgrandchildren Lily and Davis Wiseman and William Newman.

He is predeceased by his mother Clemmie Thomas Courson and sons Greg Courson and Jon Courson III. Jon was born in Plant City on February 23, 1930, graduated from Bolles Military School, Jacksonville, Florida, and attended Stetson University.

He spent most of his career in the soft drink industry, serving as Senior Vice President of Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company of Tampa. After it was sold in 1987, Jon became Vice President and Treasurer of Parker Ventures.

As a leader in the soft drink industry, he served as President of both the Florida Soft Drink Association and the Southeastern Pepsi-Cola Bottlers Association.

Always a visionary, Jon founded and was the first President of the Business

and Industry Recycling Program.

Jon is best remembered for his extremely active role in the community. During his illustrious career, Jon served as President of the Rotary Club of Tampa, the Sertoma Club of Tampa, the Merchants Association of Florida, Consumer Credit Counseling, the Temple Terrace Chamber of Commerce and was a Director of the Exchange Bank of Temple Terrace and Enterprise Bank of Tampa.

Perhaps Jon’s proudest accomplishments occurred when he was Chairman of the Board of University Community Hospital (AdventHealth Tampa) when he spearheaded the development of the Woman’s Center, the Child Care Center and the Pepin Heart Hospital as well the purchase of Carrollwood Hospital.

In recognition of his many contributions to his community, Jon was named Temple Terrace’s Citizen of the Year.

A seventh-generation Floridian, Jon was a proud member of the Sons of the American Revolution and Florida Pioneer Descendants. After retirement, Jon put his time and energy into perfecting his wood-turning skills. His bowls were most sought after in North Carolina and Florida and won many blue ribbons in art shows.

Services were held June 21, 2021 at Hopewell Funeral Home, 6005 South County Road 39, Plant City.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Loving Care Fund (memo - Endowment Fund) and sent to Florida Presbyterian Home, 16 Lake Hunter Drive, Lakeland, FL 33808.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.

Robert ‘Harold’ Hutcheson, HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Delores ‘Gail’ Allen Delores “Gail” Allen, 72, of Mulberry, Florida, born in Winter Haven on Dec. 11, 1948, entered into eternal rest on June 19, 2021.

Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Robert “Harold” Hutcheson, 88, of Plant City, Florida passed away on June 20, 2021. He was born on Oct. 20, 1932, in Red Bay, AL. Harold was a retired salesman and a proud veteran of the US Navy. He was also a member of Youman’s Praise and Worship Center in Plant City as well as an active outdoorsman who loved to go hunting and fishing. Harold is survived by his wife, of 66 years, Juanita Hutcheson; children, Robert (Lisa) Hutcheson, Jr. of Lakeland, Florida, Malinda (Stan) Fortner of Plant City, Terry (Vicki) Hutcheson of Plant

ALL OBITUARIES ARE SUBMITTED AND EDITED BY FAMILIES OR FUNERAL HOMES

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

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

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City, Lorie (Randy) Ingram of Lecanto, Florida; brother Edward Hutcheson of Wichita, Kansas; 13 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

A viewing will be Monday, June 28, 2021 from 10 a.m. until the funeral at 11 a.m. at Youman’s Praise and Worship Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice, 3470 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland, FL 33805. Condolences via: www.oakridgefuneralcare.com

OBITUARIES

Barbara Ann Dack Corser

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Clarence Ruebeling Clarence Ruebeling, 94, passed away on Thursday, June 17, 2021 in Plant City, FL. He was born in Plant City, Florida on Feb. 21, 1927.

Fond memories and condolences may be offered at www.wellsmemorial.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

OBITUARIES

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

A. John Saranko

A. John Saranko, M.D., 76, of Plant City Florida, born on Feb. 20, 1945 in Tampa, entered into eternal rest on June 13, 2021.

He was known as “Johnny” when he graduated from Pinecrest School in 1962. He was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps with the rank of Sergeant, and as he always said: “Once a Marine, Always a Marine.”

In 1967, he married the love of his life Pat of South Carolina and later graduated from Clemson University in 1971. In 1977, he earned his M.D. from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. He completed a residency in Family Practice at Halifax Hospital in Daytona Beach, serving as Chief Resident during his final year.

After many years away, Dr. John wanted to build his practice and raise his family in his hometown. He returned to Plant City in 1980 and established a solo medical practice. In 1998, he and Dr. Gregg Gutowski established the Family Practice Center of Plant City, where he cared for patients until his retirement

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

nessee; grandchildren, in 2018. Not only was he a Lindsy, Samuel, Suzi, AJ, compassionate physician, he served in many volunteer and Graham; siblings, BEST BET James Saranko, Kathleen positions in Plant City and state-wide. From volunteer- Adkins, and Joe Saranko SATURDAY, JUNE 26 (Sue). John was preceded ing as team doc for local in death by his parents, high schools to serving in BLUES, BBQ AND BERRIES Andy and Juanita Samany leadership positions 6 to 10 p.m. at 106 S. Evers St. ranko. at South Florida Baptist Come out to the Florida StrawA funeral service will Hospital, his dedication to berry Capitol of the World and improving healthcare in his be held Friday, June 25 enjoy live music from Mississippi at 4:00 p.m. at Welcome community was always at Delta Blues and BBQ by T&G Kitchen, along with Baptist Church, 11308 the forefront. breweries and taps along Evers Street Boardwalk.

He was an active member Welcome Church Street, with the Florida Academy of Lithia, where the family Family Physicians, where he will receive friends beginserved as President and was ning at 3:00 p.m. He will THURSDAY, JUNE 24 SATURDAY, JUNE 26 honored as the Florida Fam- lay in rest at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell. PLANT CITY ily Physician of the Year.

RELIANCE SALUTES In lieu of flowers, meHe was a long time TOASTMASTERS VETERANS member of Welcome Baptist morial contributions may 7:30 to 9 a.m. Join the Plant Reliance Medical Centers Church and knew Christ as be made to the Juvenile City Toastmasters for breakis hosting a free event for Diabetes Research Fund his Lord and Savior. Befast, laughs, and fun; there’s veterans and their families at www.jdrf.org/donate ing raised on the farm, he no better way to start your to recognize and appreciate remained true to his roots. and/or the American Thursday mornings. Bring a the sacrifices made by our Diabetes Association at Some of his passions were chair and a mask. The ToastAmerican heroes and their diabetes.org. Expressions masters also offer Zoom his orange grove, raisloved ones! of condolence at www. ing cattle, and gardening. meetings for those who can’t Join us at our Lakeland cenHopewellFuneral.com.

He was passionate about make it in person. Visit the ter for an outdoor celebracycling, on- and off-road.

Facebook page, facebook. tion with free lunch from He loved riding the backcom/PlantCityToastmasters, Mission BBQ, live music and country roads with his biking for meeting locations and giveaways for attendees as buddies as well as parinformation. we honor our local veterans. ticipating in organized rides HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM throughout the Southeast.

FRIDAY, JUNE 25 As a flatlander, his proudest SATURDAY, JULY 3 Carl Edward accomplishment was comLAST FRIDAY IN pleting the grueling Assault DOWNTOWN BLUEGRASS JAM! Stewart III on Mt. Mitchell event at the 5 to 9 p.m. at McCall Park, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E J age of 74.

100 N. Collins St. The Last Arden Mays Blvd. This is Carl Edward Stewart Above all else, he loved his Friday In Downtown Food an open invitation for loIII, 50, passed away on family and always made his Truck Rally with a new theme cal Bluegrass musicians Saturday, June 19th, wife and children a priority, and fans to come to the 2021 in Ruskin, Florida. each month. There will be generouslyW Epouring his time live music, market vendors Krazy Kup Loft and jam, Formerly of Plano, we’re dedicated to helping families create a ’R E P R OU D TO SE RV E our community unique meaningful memorial truly food trucks. The event with personal, 1896. and love into their compassionate care. In care since Texas. clap hands, stomp feet, and Heand was born in thatand celebrates the life it represents.

As your Dignity Memorial professionals, his later years he dedicated enjoy! Krazy Cup holds their Maryland on December is family and pet friendly. All > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability a great deal of >love and atBluegrass JAM the first Sat8, 1970.

Fond memoBereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® are recommended to bring tention to his grandchildren, chairs and blankets. urday of every month! ries and condolences R who knew him as Papa. may be offered at www.

Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival.

He is survived by his wife wellsmemorial.com of 54 years, Pat; children, Chris (Tammi) of Roswell, Georgia, and Kim Whitaker WELLSMEMORIAL.COM (Andy) of Nashville, Ten-

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SUNDAY, JULY 4 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks and family fun at the Plant City Stadium, 1904 S Park Road. The event will include a military salute, face painting, corn hole, inflatables, a rock wall and live music by Solaris. The parking lot will open at 5:45 p.m. and while attendance is free, remember to bring $5 in cash for parking. At 6 p.m. the stadium gates will open along with concessions and field activities. Stage entertainment will begin at 7 p.m. and the military salute, along with the National Anthem, will begin at 9 p.m. prior to the start of the fireworks at around 9:15 p.m.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FORECAST

Send your photo submissions to staff writer Taylor Jenkins at tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

THURSDAY, JUNE 24 High: 88 Low: 72 Chance of rain: 71%

FRIDAY, JUNE 25 High: 85 Low: 72 Chance of rain: 41%

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

SUNRISE/SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, June 24

6:33a

8:28p

Friday, June 25

6:33a

8:28p

Saturday, June 26

6:33a

8:28p

Sunday, June 27

6:34a

8:28p

Monday, June 28

6:34a

8:28p

Tuesday, June 29

6:34a

8:28p

Wednesday, June 30

6:35a

8:28p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, JUNE 26 High: 89 Low: 73 Chance of rain: 38%

SUNDAY, JUNE 27 High: 90 Low: 72 Chance of rain: 40%

MONDAY, JUNE 28 Brenda Miller caught this photo of a baby bird learning to fly in Plant City.

ONLINE

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

High: 91 Low: 73 Chance of rain: 38%

(C) 2021 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Across 1 “Friends” catchphrase 11 Auctioned wheels 15 Far from perfect 16 European capital with more than 340 lakes 17 Newspaper audience 18 Convertible option 19 City downriver from Las Cruces 20 Temporary fixes 22 Ctrl + I, in much software: Abbr.

24 Draft pick 25 Early product promotion with few details 29 Summer hire, perhaps

32 Cruise controls 33 Piece maker?

35 Vietnamese soup 36 Hawkish god 37 Light refractor 38 Coagulate 39 Show passes, informally 40 Secret meeting 41 Vocation 42 Living room piece 44 Factory equipment 46 19th-century English novelist Charles 48 __ Jim 49 Like a “pony” with limited skills 52 Dyson alternatives 56 Beginning to call?

57 One may be part of a fresh start 59 Knotted up, scorewise 60 Campaign focus 61 Sources of furniture wood 62 Relative of a fidget spinner Down 1 Present 2 Only unanimous Cy Young Award winner between Dwight and Randy 3 Finish (up) 4 “Always in motion is the future” and others

5 Electra’s brother 6 Hullabaloo 7 Oz and Howser: Abbr.

8 Sounds heard at an unveiling 9 JFK and LBJ, e.g.

10 Relative priority in hiring 11 Some moonshine 12 One may include large gifts 13 Ripple preceder 14 Cry over spilt milk 21 Corn bread 23 Jerry’s “Seinfeld” cocreator 25 “__ So Raven”: 2000s sitcom 26 Like meeting one’s doppelgänger, probably 27 “I’m curious about everything--even things that don’t interest me” speaker 28 Belief in a hands-off god 30 __ Island 31 Observes 34 “Cmo __?”

37 Forecasts 38 Forensic analysis site 40 Berlin Wall Speech word 41 Ardent desires 43 Wyoming range 45 “Jurassic Park” dinosaurs, e.g.

47 Brilliance 49 Snack manufactured in 18 countries 50 Super star 51 Broadway’s Walter __ Theatre 53 “Flashdance... What a Feeling” singer 54 “Hooked on Classics” co.

55 Navy __ 58 Mature

15

July 9 New

June 24 Full

July 17 First

July 1 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

1.24 in.

4.59 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

JUNE AVERAGE:

11.95 in.

8.62 in.

TOMATOES Shipping point: Central Florida $11.95-$13.95

Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Great health care is closer than you think.

South Florida Baptist Hospital is more than just a small community hospital. We’ve got a wide array of specialty care and surgical services that you don’t have to travel far to get. Our surgeons are experts in minimally invasive robotic surgical procedures that provide lots of benefits, including shorter hospital stays, decreased blood loss and smaller incisions that reduce the risk of infection. Plus, faster recovery times that mean you can get back to your normal activities sooner. You’ll find comprehensive orthopedic care—whether you’re an athlete who needs sports medicine services or you’re someone who needs a total joint replacement. Our all-inclusive gynecology program offers high-quality care to the women and mothers in our community with a variety of women’s care services. We’ve even been designated as a Center of Excellence for our weight loss surgery program, meeting nationally recognized standards and providing outstanding care to our patients. And all of this extraordinary care exists right here in Plant City. Learn more: SouthFloridaBaptistSurgery.org

21-1493769-0521

PlantCityObserver.com