TODDLER DIES IN ACCIDENT IN PLANT CITY
On August 26, at approximately 10:00 a.m., the Plant City Police Department (PCPD) responded to a traffic crash that occurred within the 1700 block of E. Ohio St. Upon arrival, it was learned that an adult female driver backing from a residential driveway failed to observe a male toddler standing behind the vehicle. As the vehicle began backing out of the driveway, the driver backed into the child. The child sustained grave injuries and died a short time later.
In a news release, PCPD stated, “The Plant City Police Department shares our condolences to the affected family. They are in our prayers during this difficult time.”
The investigation of this incident is ongoing.
HCPS NAMES SCHOOL “RICK LOTT TECHNICAL COLLEGE”
At Tuesday’s school board meeting, the Hillsborough County School Board voted to select Rick Lott Technical College as the name of the new school slated to open this fall, in honor of Rick Lott, the former Plant City Mayor. More than 230 names were submitted by the community for consideration.
The new educational facility is located at 1690 E. Park Rd. and will open to adult education in the fall of 2025. It will be open for high school students in January. Students will have the opportunity to take courses in programs like industrial electricity, welding technology, building construction, HVAC, and forklift certification. These programs are designed to be completed in about a year, making it possible for students to quickly transition into well-paying careers in the community.
Lott, who dedicated over two decades serving as mayor of Plant City, has been instrumental in forging strong partnerships among the city, local businesses, and schools. His leadership has expanded opportunities for students, equipping them with the tools they need for a successful future.
“This naming is a reflection of his vision and leadership in creating educational and career opportunities for our students,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. “His name on our new technical college will serve as a reminder of how one individual’s dedication can positively shape a community for generations.”
HATS, HEELS, AND HIGH TEA
The GFWC Women’s Club of Plant City is hosting a Hats, Heels, and High Tea Social Event and Fundraiser on September 20 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The stylish event is open to all women who would like to connect with others and support this dynamic organization. Attendees are reminded to bring their best hat for a hat competition, and remember every winner starts with a challenge. The event will be held at the GFWC Women’s Club of Plant City, located at 1110. N. Wheeler St. in Plant City. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased by calling Diane at (813) 967-0931, or they can be purchased at the door.
PARENTING EMPOWERMENT SEMINAR
Building Strong Families, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit, in collaboration with the Education Committee of the GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City, will be sponsoring its Parenting Empowerment Seminar on Saturday, September 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Allen Chapel AME Church, 1109 E. Laura St. in Plant City. Topics to be covered in the seminar include: How to Interact Appropriately with Law Enforcement, Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention, How to Advocate for Your Children in the School System, and Identifying Mental Health and Educational Resources.
The speakers for this seminar include officers from the Plant City Police Department; Tamica Thomas Simpson, the GFWC Florida Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness and Prevention chair; Assistant Principal Theresa Williams; School Counselor Pearl Higdon Ershery; and Licensed School Psychologist, Ebony Sutton. Sessions will be moderated by Buffy Williams, senior coordinator for Polk County School District professional development.
The Parenting Empowerment Seminar is open to adults and youth, and will include a special segment specifically for middle school to high school youth.
There is no cost to attend, but pre-registration is required by September 5th, 2025. Register online at http://www.BuildingStrongFamiliesOfFlorida.com, by email at pmrivers@aol.com, or by calling Building Strong Families, Inc. at 813-759-0260 (office land line).
TRASH PICK UP CURBED ON LABOR DAY
On Monday, September 1, the City of Plant City will not pick up trash or recycling. Monday service will be on Tuesday, and Tuesday service will be on Wednesday. Collection days will return to normal on Thursday and Friday. Also, there will be no yard-waste service on Wednesday, September 4.
