FORENSIC CLASS
A former head of forensics offers classes to high school students so that they can learn more about crime scene investigation. Bill Thomas, born and raised in Plant City, spent a year in the Vietnam War serving as a U.S. Army combat military policeman. After Vietnam, he served in policing. After years of commanding military forensic labs around the world, Thomas retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 4—the equivalent of a major. Starting in 2002, Thomas served as Identification Administrator for the Polk County Sherriff’s Office, and recently retired in May. In mid-August, Thomas will begin teaching a forensic class for high school students from freshman to juniors.
In this class, students can learn to identify different types of fingerprints, analyze them, take tire impressions, and how different people see different crimes—as well as many other things. The class will also take field trips and visit crime labs. Classes will be held on Mondays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. beginning August 19, 2024. The 14-week session will be held at the Bing Rooming House Museum, near downtown Plant City. You can find the online application at https://www.improvementleague.com.
2024 SCHOOL YEAR STARTS
On August 12, Hillsborough County School students will begin the 2024-2025 school year. As students prepare for a year full of learning and excitement, we wish them the best on their journey. Remember to enjoy every second because it goes by fast!
MOBILE FOOD PANTRY
On Thursday August 15, Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 North Park Road, will again host their mobile food pantry, in the church parking lot. This pantry, in association with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Lakeland, will begin distributing food to those in need beginning at 6:00 p.m. until the supplies are distributed. Anyone in need of grocery assistance is encouraged to join the church as they work to eliminate food insecurities in our community. Various goods are available from vegetables to meats to dairy and bakery goods. The pantry, “Moving Hope” takes place at Hope Lutheran on the third Thursday of each month. No identification is required and the pantry is open to anyone in our Plant City community needing that extra hand.
For additional information, contact the church office at 813-752-4622.
HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM DEBBY DAMAGE
According to the City of Plant City Government, McIntosh Preserve, located at 775 E Knights Griffin Rd., Plant City, is temporarily closed due to unsafe conditions caused by the most recent weather. Plant City Parks & Recreation will provide updates on the preserve’s re-opening.
NEW MANAGEMENT FACILITY
Our community recently celebrated the opening of the new Rick Lott Tournament Management Facility.
The new center was constructed using part of the ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds designated by the federal government for projects of this nature.
It includes restrooms, a concession stand, a shaded viewing platform, and space for the management of tournament activities at the Ellis Methvin Park Complex at 2601 E. Cherry Street.
COOLEST DOG CONTEST
Plant city Kiwanis is hosting a “Coolest Dog” contest. It started on August 1, and you can vote until October 31. It is $10 to register your pet and $1 per vote, which will be donated. The donations benefit the Kiwanis club and their goal to keep helping children in the community. The winner will be announced on November 3, with an award ceremony November 4,. This event is sponsored by Poppell Insurance Inc., Propagation Whiskey Bar and Kitchen, and Sharon Moody.
ROAD CLOSURE NOTICE
North Wilder Road between East Cherry St. and Frontage Rd. will be closed starting August 5. The closure is set to end September 24, but is subject to change due to weather conditions.