The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating Jose Alejandro Esparza, 32, who is wanted for attempted murder and domestic violence. Esparza and his stepbrother, Ramiro Silva, 22, of 2808 Chance Place, Plant City, got into an argument at about 8:30 p.m. Aug. 6. Esparza shot Silva in the face. It is unknown why […]
Continue ReadingWho will ‘bee’ the best speller in Plant City?
Although the new school year is still several weeks away, some Plant City residents already have been hitting the books. More than 30 business leaders will test their mental mettle at the Plant City Kiwanis Club’s Business Spelling Bee at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, at 1914 PCHS Community Building, 605 N. Collins St., Plant […]
Continue ReadingLand’s Used Trucks and Equipment rolls into Plant City
After more than two decades at its current location off State Road 60, Land’s Used Trucks and Equipment is moving to a new home. Later this month, the business will pull into a new driveway, moving their operations to the old Lott-Mather dealership site, 2900 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City. “It’s time for a […]
Continue ReadingMission group travels to Guatemala
In the rolling hills of Guatemala, Plant City resident Rick Bateman and a group of missionaries chipped their way through hard, packed clay. They meticulously poured about 30 yards of concrete and lugged more than 40 trips of dirt to the site of a future orphanage. “This is not a cush mission,” Bateman said of […]
Continue ReadingPlant City families host Chinese exchange students
When a bus packed with 33 international students pulled up to Eastside Baptist Church, July 17, the driver excitedly honked the horn. A group of host families waiting in the parking lot were just as enthusiastic. They held decorated signs with the names of their students and cheered as the students filed off the bus. […]
Continue ReadingPlant City High’s Class of 2003 plans 10-year reunion
Plant City High School’s Class of 2003 will celebrate its 10-year reunion this weekend with a plethora of activities. Carrying a “Travel” theme, the reunion not only will be a chance to celebrate high school years but also how far the Class of 2003 has gone post-graduation. “A lot of people have left Plant City […]
Continue ReadingPlant City teen shines on stage
Nicole Bristol competed in the National America Miss Pageant July 14, in Orlando. “She did fantastic at the pageant,” her mother, Jeanne, says. “She was very nervous but came through very well.” Bristol has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder with visual and auditory hallucinations. She competed in the pageant to inspire other girls and help […]
Continue ReadingUncle Mike’s owners rescue injured dog
With a new baby on the way and a new Plant City restaurant opening next month, it is safe to say restaurateurs Michael and Simone Tolley have full plates. But, that isn’t stopping them from helping a furry friend in need. The couple, owners of Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse, has spearheaded a campaign to help a […]
Continue ReadingPlant City preps for Elvis invasion
Sitting in a hidden corner of a hotel lobby in Las Vegas, GaryElvis Britt didn’t seem that noticeable at first. The Elvis tribute artist was in town for the Heart of the King Las Vegas Elvis Festival and Competition. And even though he wasn’t in his dazzling costume, his dyed black hair gave him away. […]
Continue ReadingUp close with the Folkston Funnel
Whether it’s during planning meetings or at the groundbreaking ceremony, Plant City’s train-viewing platform committee can’t talk about the community’s future amenity without mentioning the Folkston Funnel. Plant City’s train-viewing platform, which is currently under construction by the depot, is loosely based on the small Georgia town’s platform. The Folkston Funnel is a double track […]
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