Expanded Version of Florida’s “Move Over” Law Took Effect Jan. 1
Effective Jan. 1, Florida’s “Move Over” Law was expanded to include moving over for ANY disabled vehicles on the side of the road that are stopped and display warning/hazard lights.
The previous version of the law only required drivers to yield right-of-way or slow down to 20 miles per hour under the speed limit (if yielding is not possible) when law enforcement, utility and sanitation vehicles, road and bridge maintenance or construction vehicles displaying warning lights are stopped with their hazards activated.
“The Move Over Law protects all of Florida’s citizens and visitors,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze. “In addition to providing public service professionals the space they need to deliver critical services, it provides safety to our residents and their guests should they experience difficulties with their vehicles.”
More information can be found at flhsmv.gov.
2024 Best of Plant City Awards Voting Opens
Got a favorite local business or event or know a resident that is one of the “berry best” in the community? Voting is open for the Best of Plant City Awards, created by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce to recognize individuals and businesses creating positive change, growth and upward momentum in Plant City. Voting opens Jan. 4 and runs through Jan. 15. Visit bestofplantcity.com to vote for the nominated finalists in categories including Business of the Year, Best Community Event, Community Service Award, Entrepreneur of the Year and more. Winners will be announced at the annual Chamber Gala on Fri., Jan. 26.
Be Wary Of New Year/New Weight Loss Scams
As you’re making a new year’s resolution to lose weight, remember some of those “new year, new you” promotions are just scams to make not your body but your wallet a little lighter. Scammers often post ads online for things like weight loss pills, patches or creams that promise lightning fast results without dieting or exercising. Don’t let criminals separate you from your money. Visit ftc.gov for more information.
Plant City Garden Club Makes Arbor Day Celebration Plans
The Plant City Garden Club will celebrate Florida Arbor Day with a tree-planting ceremony on Fri., Jan. 19 at 3:30 p.m. at Everyday Blessings in Lithia. The event kicks off a yearlong celebration of the Florida Federation of Garden Club’s 100th anniversary.
“Arbor Day is a nationally celebrated observance that encourages tree planting and care. Florida celebrates in January as it’s the perfect month to plant a tree in Florida,” said Tracey Brannigan, Club President.
Arbor Day is celebrated the third Friday in January in Florida.
Besides providing shade from hot weather, trees also help reduce electric bills, provide food and shelter for wildlife and help reduce greenhouse gases. “Replacing trees lost to hurricanes, storms, development and old age is extremely important,” added Arbor Day coordinator Cheryl Norton.
In conjunction with Arbor Day, the Club has also donated 100 Loblolly Pine seedlings, funded with a Duke Energy Foundation grant, to the City of Plant City. The seedlings will be planted at McIntosh Preserve, located at 775 E. Knights Griffin Rd., on Jan. 18 at 10 a.m.
Cat-ch Your Breath Coming to Bruton Memorial Library
Take a break from reading, writing and studying at Bruton Memorial Library on Jan. 8 and 22 at 5 p.m. and cat-ch your breath with a little love and cuddle time with an adoptable cat from Raining Cats and Dogs Shelter. This event is for children ages eight and up. Registration is limited to 12 participants. Walk-ins may be accepted but registration is recommended. Register at hcplc.org.
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Deputy Chief of Administration Jason Dougherty Named Fire Chief
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) Deputy Chief of Administration Jason Dougherty was named the Fire Chief of HCFR, the fourth-largest fire department in Florida. Dougherty replaced Fire Chief Dennis Jones, who retired Dec. 22 after 45 years of service.
Dougherty has been with HCFR since 2016 and has more than 23 years of experience in the fire service, and has served as second-in-command to Chief Jones for the last five years. During that time he managed and oversaw HCFR’s $260 million budget, maintained 46 fire stations, handled logistics and oversaw fleet operations and the Emergency Dispatch Center.