Improvement League of Plant City, CDC to host Derby Soiree in support of Bing House Museum restoration

Beginning as a civic organization in 1982, the Improvement League of Plant City, CDC was founded by the late Jerry Bailey to address the needs of the Lincoln and Madison Park communities. Screengrab: Plant City Observer.

The Improvement League of Plant City, CDC  will host its 2nd Annual Summer Solstice Soiree on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Norman McLeod American Legion Post 26 in Plant City. 

The annual fundraiser will take on a Derby-inspired theme this year, bringing together style, entertainment and community support in one evening. Guests are invited to wear their best hats, suits and summer evening attire while enjoying live R&B from Tony B & Fahrenheit with Sha Simpson on vocals, along with a professional comedian. The event is also BYOF, encouraging guests to bring their own food and enjoy the evening picnic-style. 

Improvement League’s 2nd Annual Summer Solstice Soiree will be on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Norman McLeod American Legion Post 26 in Plant City. 

Proceeds from the event will support the restoration of the historic Bing Rooming House Museum, one of Plant City’s important cultural landmarks connected to the history, contributions, and legacy of the African American community. After sustaining damage during the 2024 hurricane, the museum is undergoing continued restoration efforts to help protect the site and keep its history accessible for future generations. 

Bing Rooming House Museum experienced severe flooding and damage after Hurricane Milton in October 2024. As of December 1, 2025, the fundraising total toward renovation costs is $325,000.50. Image retrieved from Blooming House website.

The work behind the organization traces back more than four decades. Beginning as a civic organization in 1982, the Improvement League of Plant City, CDC was founded by the late Jerry Bailey to address the needs of the Lincoln and Madison Park communities. In 1996, the organization received 501(c)(3) public charitable status, expanding its ability to pursue funding and serve residents across the greater Plant City area. 

Today, the League continues its work through programs and partnerships focused on education, culture, community development, and historical preservation. Its efforts include but are not limited to the Bing Rooming House African American Museum, the Sadye Martin College Scholarship Fund, free assistance for military veterans, and its role as a community liaison for the Coronet Superfund Site rehabilitation. 

For Brandi Boyer, a board member and event committee chair with the Improvement League of Plant City, the evening is closely tied to the League’s mission of preservation, education, and community enrichment. 

“History is one of our greatest teachers. Through the restoration of the Bing House Museum, we are preserving the lessons, stories, and legacy that continue to shape Plant City’s future,” Boyer said. 

Boyer explained that the organization’s mission centers on preserving the stories connected to the Bing House, honoring the people who helped shape Plant City’s African American community and creating a space where future generations can learn from that history. 

That same mission is what drives the Summer Solstice Soiree, bringing residents, business leaders, community partners and visitors together for an evening that celebrates Plant City’s past and future while supporting the preservation work tied to the Bing House Museum. 

Community members interested in attending can purchase tickets in advance for $50 through the link. Tickets will also be available at the door for $60. 

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