Citizen's Academy #4

OK, so everyone's probably trying to figure out from the past blogs, where are class #2 & #3.

I was lazy, I admit it. Now I'm back on track.

But in case it's bothering you:

#2 was Transit Services, which was cool because we rode on a transit bus throughout Bartow and learned where each of the county buildings were and what services they provide. We also got to produce our own small talk show on PGTV. No one saw it but the class, and maybe this was a good thing.

#3 was public safety which includes emergency coordination to disasters such as hurricanes, and is over EMS and fire. I learned alot about the county fire department. For instance how long it's taken to build a new JPV firestation, something like 1993. And there will possibly be a new station along Rifle Range Road near HWY 60 within the next few years.

#4(See pictures above) Bob Crawford Building in Bartow is where we met. Last night's feature was Human Services Dept. Some of their programs are Healthy Families, County Probation, Cooperative Extension ( not sure why it's called that it seems mostly about plants and insects). Larry Skidmore is the director of Human Services and was great. He really seems to love his job and take pleasure in helping people.

So far the class has been well worth my time and I would encourage everyone to sign up for the next class. And by the way, we were served a pretty good meal too. Gotta love Tuesdays!