FOCUS Plant City 18-02 by Floyd Publications

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Before

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Contents Table of

focusplantcity.com / Issue 18-02 / February 2019

LOCAL

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SPOTLIGHT

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F E AT U R E

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BUSINESS

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January and February are such busy times in our community! From pageants to fashion shows to galas and more. In this issue, you’ll learn about those events, including the 2019 Chamber Gala, SCHS Chargerthon, and celebrations of African American History.

Five talented, poised, beautiful ladies have been selected to serve as the 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and Court. Meet Queen Kendall Gaudens, First Maid Madilyn Conrad, and court members Jada Brown, Olivia Frazier and Kennedy Cullins. As these new ambassadors for our city settle into their new roles, they discuss their visions for the year ahead, and the opportunities in store.

It is our pleasure to preview the city’s most anticipated event, the 84th Annual Florida Strawberry Festival. Our guide to the festival will help you plan your way to the “berry” best in strawberry fashion, entertainment and get a behind-the-scenes look at some of individuals who make the annual event possible. We are sure the 2019 event will be “a hit.”

In Plant City, the name Rollyson is synonymous with insurance. Meet Rhett Rollyson, an independent agent with Fearnow Insurance. Housed within the V&R Insurance office opened by his father Rolly, Rhett is dedicated to finding the best coverage options for his clients. Learn more about Rhett and his commitment to service.

DINING

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Once a month, Norma’s Plant City Cuban Sandwich Shop offers a monthly “Night at Norma’s” with an exclusive, four-course meal prepared by Chef Andy Nassar. Each month the menu changes, but the ambiance allows for couples to share a romantic meal with BYOW (Bring Your Own Wine) or friends to share a delicious meal together.

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Save $2.00 on Adult & $1.00 on Youth General Admission Tickets at Publix

Artists Appearing on the

It’s A Hit!

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Feb. 28 - Mar. 10, 2019 • Plant City, FL

Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra

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Home Free Sat. Mar. 2, 3:30 $20

Brothers Osborne Fri. Mar. 1, 7:30 $40

An Evening With Steven Tyler and The Loving Mary Band Sun. Mar. 3, 7:30 $55

Pat Boone Mon. Mar. 4, 3:30 $20

STYX Wed. Mar. 6, 7:30 $35

Kool & the Gang Sat. Mar. 2, 7:30 $30

Martina McBride Mon. Mar. 4, 7:30 $35

The Kingston Trio Thu. Mar. 7, 10:30 FREE

Drifters, Platters & Cornell Gunter’s Coasters Tue. Mar. 5, 3:30 $20

The Lettermen Thu. Mar. 7, 3:30 $20

Willie Nelson & Family

Fri. Mar. 1, 3:30

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Chicks with Hits featuring Terri Clark, Pam Tillis and Suzy Bogguss Sun. Mar. 3, 3:30 $25

#berryfest19

NEEDTOBREATHE Tue. Mar. 5, 7:30 $35

for King & Country Thu. Mar. 7, 7:30 $30

Gene Watson Wed. Mar. 6, 3:30 $20

Tanya Tucker Fri. Mar. 8, 3:30 $30

Chris Janson Fri. Mar. 8, 7:30 $30

Visit www.FLstrawberryfestival.com or call 813-754-1996 and get your tickets for the best seats available! Home of OUR

Battle of the Bands Finale Sat. Mar. 9, 3:30 FREE

Keith Sweat Sat. Mar. 9, 7:30 $30

Bill Anderson & Bobby Bare Sun. Mar. 10, 3:30 $20

Old Dominion Make It Sweet Tour Sun. Mar. 10, 7:30 $45

Concert dates and times are subject to change

• Images Everywhere! • Local Ford Dealers • Verizon Wireless • Alessi Bakery • DIRECTV • AMSCOT • Stingray Chevrolet • Dakin Dairy Farms • Uncommon USA • Circle K • Astin Farms • Grove Equipment Service • Candyland Warehouse • Netterfield’s • Smithfield • Global Frequency Technologies • Master Spas • Good Health Saunas • Metro by T-Mobile • Choo Choo Lawn Equipment • Vision Auto Glass • Wyndham Vacation Resorts • Florida Dairy Farmers • General RV Center • O’Reilly Auto Parts • Kellogg’s • Florida Blue • Carolina Carports • Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association/VISIT FLORIDA PAGE

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From The Publisher The beginning of the year is always an exciting time for our city. Our community is abuzz as the 84th Annual Florida Strawberry Festival comes to town. As we celebrate the strawberry harvest, may we all keep our local growers in mind. Because of their hard work, strawberries remain the commodity that ties our wonderful community together. Publisher Mike Floyd - mikef@floydpublications.com Office Manager Candy Owens - cowens@floydpublications.com Account Manager Crystal Shipley - crystal@floydpublications.com Account Manager Chandler Workman - chandler@floydpublications.com Managing Editor Cierra Craft - cierra@floydpublications.com

In our annual Strawberry Festival issue, meet the 2019 Queen and Court, hear from Festival President Paul Davis, and learn more about the countless hours thousands of volunteers commit to ensure a safe and happy Florida Strawberry Festival.

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd.Plant City, FL 33563 Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 www.focusplantcity.com Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us.

2019 is shaping up to be an exciting year for FOCUS, as well. We have launched FOCUSTV once again. Be sure to tune in to www.focusplantcity. com or our social media profiles each Wednesday for a new episode. We are also unveiling Art With Heart, an art project focused on connecting community with charity. We are honored to have John Briggs, Jules Burt, Loretta Burns, John Dispennette and Dave â&#x20AC;&#x153;Letterflyâ&#x20AC;? Knoderer lend their talent to benefit United Food Bank of Plant City, Unity in the Community, Boys and Girls Club- West Plant City, Hook-A-Hero and Operation Paying It Forward. Look for more details about this projects on our social media channels as well. As FOCUS begins its 18th year of publication, I reflect on the many blessings the magazine has brought to my life, including friends that have become family. It is the support from our readers that inspires our team to tell compelling stories each and every year.

So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications.com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner. FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.

Warmest Regards, Mike Floyd PAGE

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LOCAL

2019 Chamber Gala Jason Jones Passed Gavel to Karen Kerr

BY CIERRA CRAFT

2018 Chairman Jason Jones welcomed 2019 Chairman Karen Kerr with the annual Passing of the Gavel ceremony.

embers of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce gathered at the John R. Trinkle Center on Jan. 24 in celebration of the Passing of the Gavel ceremony, as well as Best of Plant City Award presentation. Chamber members were welcomed by organization president Christine Miller, who then welcomed Jodi Stevens to lead the pledge and Katie Thurmond to perform the National Anthem. Hope Lutheran Church Pastor Dean Pfeffer provided the invocation before the attendees enjoyed a meal provided by Nine One One Catering. The program began with the presentation of 14 Best of Plant City Awards, including Entrepreneur of the Year to the Spirit of Plant City Award. The community voted in ten of the categories and the remaining four categories were selected by various civic groups. The 2019 recipients of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Best of Plant City awards are:

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• Best Community Event AwardRelay for Life of Plant City, American Cancer Society • Community Service Award- GFWC Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City • Customer Service Award- Krazy Kup • Employer of the Year Award- Star Distribution Systems, Inc. • Entrepreneur of the Year AwardLeo Mesquita, Norma’s Plant City Cuban Sandwich Shop • Health and Wellness AwardPregnancy Care Center of Plant City • New Business Award- The Sparkman House Luxury Bed and Breakfast • Non-Profit of the Year AwardPregnancy Care Center of Plant City • Small Business of the Year AwardKrazy Kup • Business of the Year AwardYMCA • Downtown Enrichment Award (Selected by Historic Plant City Main Street)- The Sparkman House Luxury Bed and Breakfast

• Economic Development Award (Selected by the Plant City EDC)South Florida Baptist Hospital • Rising Leader of the Year Award (Selected by RISE Plant City)Victoria Saunders • Spirit of the Chamber Award (Selected by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce)- Michelle Valdes 2018 Chairman Jason Jones presented the Chairman’s Award to Kayla Drawdy. The recipients were welcomed on the stage to be recognized by their fellow Chamber members and photos were taken by Deanna Hurley Photography. Then, the Passing of the Gavel ceremony began, as former chairmen from the 1970s to 2010s were called to the stage. Each chairman passed the gavel down to the line to 2018 Chairman Jason Jones, who then presented the honor of 2019 Chairman to Karen Kerr. Kerr then took the podium to discuss her goals for the new year and introduce the new Board of Directors: Chair-Elect: Courtney Paat; Immediate Past Chair: Jason Jones;

Treasurer: Carol Wright; Vice Chair of the Membership Division: Kayla Drawdy; Vice Chair of Community Relations Division: Larry Jimenez, Jr.; Vice Chair of Community Events Division: Alice Bullard; and Vice Chair of Governmental Affairs Division: Mike Arndt. Chamber President Christine Miller said the 2019 Gala was the first time the business networking organization combined the awards ceremony with the passing of the gavel event. “The Inaugural Chamber Gala was the first time having both the awards and the induction of the new board at the same event and it was a tremendous success!” said Miller. “A true celebration of the community, past, present and looking into the future. The Chamber team did an amazing job making the event look easy.” As the evening came to a close, a sense of community could be felt throughout the room as the members congratulated each other on their accomplishments. The support of one another, as well as from Plant City citizens, motivates these business leaders to achieve their goals into 2019 and beyond.

Michelle Valdes, owner of Tint Plus and president of Operation Paying It Forward, received the Spirit of the Chamber Award. The award goes to those who are always the first to lend a hand, support other businesses and attend several events.

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LOCAL

2019 Strawberry Fashion Show Was “A Hit!” BY SHERRIE MUELLER

Fashion Show Chair Linda Walden, is joined by her daughter, Suzanne Walden Cribbs, who serves as co-chair and as an Associate Director of the Florida Strawberry Festival. Cribbs says the annual fashion show is one of the most anticipated events of the year.

The 2019 Queen and Court, along with the 2019 Junior Royalty, were the highlight of the 42nd Annual Florida Strawberry Festival Fashion Show.

he 42nd Annual Fashion Show and Luncheon was “a hit” with 575 guests. The guests enjoyed a delicious plated lunch, prepared by Simply Southern Catering, and enjoyed an array of fashions from ten area merchants. The popular event was held on Thursday, Jan. 24 at the Charlie Grimes Family Agricultural Center on the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds and sponsored by Alessi Bakeries. In keeping with the Festival’s 2019 theme “It’s a Hit!,” guests were greeted by varsity baseball players, all proudly wearing their baseball uniforms, from Plant City’s area high schools: Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest. The invitation-only event attracted local residents, as well as guests from around the area. It was a time to meet new friends and reconnect with old. Ninety four local models of all ages strutted the stage and runway to the delight of the crowd. Models included 2006 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and co-owner of RAOK Boutique, Hannah Benton and her daughter, Ames, as well as

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Rotary Club President Jodi Stevens and her daughter, Jena. Virginia Johnson, Reporter for Bay News 9 St. Petersburg, served as the Mistress of Ceremonies. “This event is one of the most anticipated days of the year in Plant City,” said an excited Suzanne Cribbs, Co-Chairman of the Fashion Show & Luncheon. Linda Walden, Suzanne’s mother, serves as the Chairman and has been leading the event for over 20 years. Suzanne went on to sum up the day by sharing, “With the Festival’s ‘It’s a Hit’ theme for 2019, we believe this year’s Fashion Show was definitely a “grand slam” day of fun for our community.” Judging from the positive comments from the crowd as they were leaving the venue, Suzanne made the right call. For more information on the popular Fashion Show and Luncheon, as well as other Festival opportunities, call the Florida Strawberry Festival 813-752-9194 or check the festival website at www. flstrawberryfestival.com.

Yvonne Fry, owner of Fryed Egg Productions, showcased an all black outfit on the runway as part of the annual event.

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LOCAL

Celebrating Black History & Heritage in Plant City BY CIERRA CRAFT

n 1976, President Gerald Ford recognized February as Black History Month, to acknowledge the accomplishments of black Americans throughout history. Since, every U.S. President has designated February as Black History Month. Across the country, towns come together to honor African American leaders and Black culture within February and beyond. Plant City is no exception, with events honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., as well as observing African American culture through the arts. On Jan. 19, Improvement League of Plant City, CDC hosted the 33rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Festival, honoring the life of the late Pastor and Civil Rights leader. Improvement League President William Thomas Jr. says the Plant City event began in 1986, the same year President Ronald

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Reagan signed a bill designating MLK Day to be observed on the third Monday of January. The Improvement League has honored Dr. King with a community parade and a carnival, but new to 2019, Thomas says the Improvement League chose to celebrate Jan. 11 through Jan. 26. The 15-day observation, themed “Unity Starts Here: The Work Continues”, encompassed a book signing by author James McDaniel, the annual parade, MLK Day of Service, and Rhythm & Rhyme, a night of poetry, comedy and music. Thomas says the theme was chosen to make a statement for everyone to embrace the message of Dr. King. “Our city is undergoing change.. What does our community define as diverse? Our hope is that each individual will be charged to be inclusive and diverse,” said

Lincoln Magnet School for International Studies participated in the MLK Parade, by pulling students in red wagons and handing out beads. The elementary school was named a Magnet School of Distinction.

Thomas. “Everyone must be held accountable to make diversity a focus. We can’t expect the city or the chamber to make diversity a focus without the Improvement League first making a statement and taking a stand.” Thomas noted a recent example of the 2019 Strawberry Queen and Court, with a diverse group of girls with various backgrounds and interests. He said these young ladies serve as ambassadors to our community and stand for who we are. Thomas says in addition to heading up the MLK festivities, the Improvement League is also hard at work to put the Bing Rooming House on the map. The organization has reached out to

the School District of Hillsborough County to make them aware that the Bing Rooming House and Bealsville’s Glover School are the only African American museums in Hillsborough County and encourage students to visit both locations to learn about bay area history. Additionally, the Bing Rooming House was featured on ABC Action News on Feb. 6, in celebration of Black History Month. The segment highlighted the various exhibits on display such as the African American achievements in athletics and education, as well as share a bit of history of the Laura Street Business District, to which the Bing Rooming House belongs. “We want to encourage folks

The Honorable Lisa Campbell served as the keynote speaker at the Feb. 8 Black Heritage Banquet & Gala. Campbell commended the Plant City Black Heritage, Inc. on the organization’s commitment to youth and education within the Plant City community.

to come out to the Bing Rooming House and view the exhibits to raise cultural awareness,” said Thomas. “We want to highlight those individuals in Plant City from various areas.” However, the Improvement League of Plant City was not the only organization to celebrate Dr. King. GFWC Plant City Woman’s Club presented a day of recognition to King with a program titled “His Dream Our Destiny.” The introduction was given by Immediate Past President Karen Giggsby and Dr. Dan Middlebrooks. Six students read essays about Dr. King’s impact on their lives and the civil rights leader’s “I Have A Dream” speech was orated by Mr. Keith Worth, who recalled the speech from memory. “This was one of our initiatives from our State President to celebrate Dr. King,” said Judy Wise, Public Relations and Publicity Chair at the GFWC Woman's Club of Plant City. “Keith Worth’s eloquent delivery along with the rise and fall of this voice was so like Dr. King's, we had wonderful goose bumps.” However, African American history extends far beyond one historical figure. In 2003, Sharon Moody founded the Plant City

Black Heritage, Inc. to celebrate the elements of black culture beyond historic figures. “Our kids learn about MLK in school, but there is so much more that needs to be celebrated,” said Moody. The Plant City Black Heritage, Inc. kicked off its Black History Month Festival on Feb. 8 with the 16th Annual Black Heritage Banquet & Gala at the Trinkle Center. The event, themed “Blueprint to All Americans,” promoted unity among the community, while highlighting the rich cultural heritage and contributions of African Americans to the Plant City community. WFLA News Channel 8 Anchor and award winning journalist Rod Carter served as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. Carter says this isn’t the first time he has attended the Plant City Black Heritage Banquet & Gala. “I’ve been here for several years and it’s always a good time,” said Carter. “It’s keeping history alive and honoring history. I thoroughly enjoy being apart of it.” The Honorable Lisa Campbell of the Thirteenth Judicial Court served as the keynote speaker. Judge Campbell spoke about the organization’s commitment to

the betterment of the Plant City community, particularly through the lens of education. “A blueprint that allows everyone to have the future they deserve… to have an opportunity to showcase their talent,” said Campbell. “We have to push our children. We have to educate our children and insist on nothing less.” Campbell shared anecdotes about her family’s experiences with prejudice during their lifetimes, as well as spoke to the support the Plant City community provided to her during her campaign for circuit court judge in 2008. She concluded her speech with a quote by Marian Wright Edelman, President of the Children’s Defense Fund: “‘A lot of people are waiting for Martin Luther King or Mahatma Gandhi to come back - but they are gone. We are it. It is up to us. It is up to you.’” Plant City Black Heritage, Inc. presented awards to the following individuals: • $500 Scholarship: Destiny Watkins of Blake High School • Heritage Award: Doretha Adams • Lifetime Achievement Award: Theophilus N. Hill, Jr. • Humanitarian Award: Larry and Cathy Jimenez of Star Distribution Systems • Cornerstone Award Recipient: Hope Lutheran Church • Community Service Award: C&S Wholesale Grocers

• Global Philanthropist Awards: Henry Falcon, Winn Dixie Store Manager; Pastor Calvin Callins & Dr. Tandria Callins The award recipients were chosen for their contributions to bettering the lives of others through donation, community service, or through their respective occupations. On Saturday, Feb. 9, the Plant City Black Heritage, Inc. hosted a Youth Summit at the 1914 PCHS Community Center, as well as a Jazz Festival at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum. The public was encouraged to bring their own lawn chair and enjoy the art form, developed by African Americans in the late 1800s. The event featured American violinist Daniel D. of Charleston, South Carolina. On Feb. 10, the Plant City Black Heritage, Inc. wrapped up the weekend with a gospel concert at Mt. Olive Baptist Church on Ball Street. As the community gathered to celebrate individuals -locals or national icons- who have advocated for equality, justice and service, a blanket of unity was felt across Plant City. Residents of all ethnicities, age groups and backgrounds came together in celebration of black history and heritage at these inclusive community events.

The Humanitarian Award was presented to Larry and Cathy Jimenez of Star Distribution Systems. The Jimenezes son, Josh, accepted the award on behalf of the family. PAGE

LOCAL

Chargerthon raises money for medical research BY TARYN STORTER

he Chargerthon at Strawberry Crest High School is an eight-hour dance marathon that raises money “For the Kids”. The fifth annual event will be held on February 23rd with a fundraising goal of $25,000. With over 350 students involved, Strawberry Crest hopes to host their largest Chargerthon yet. All the proceeds from the Chargerthon go directly to John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg. The dance marathon was founded by SCHS student Amruta Potdar in 2015. During the past four years, this event has raised over $60,000. Every year it has grown and developed into an incredible and impactful day that changes the lives of many. As an independent dance marathon, the Chargerthon

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can impact a need directly in our area. Krishna Vekariya, a member of the executive board explained: “I joined Chargerthon to join a community where kids help kids because after all, it is us kids that will one day lead the world. Fundraising for pediatric hospitals is not just about being caring, it’s about understanding that children have the right to be in control of their future, and a disease should not get in the way of that.” Since Sept. 2018, students have been raising money to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network. However, preparation for this day started long before. The executive board of the Chargerthon puts many hours in behind-the-scenes to ensure that the event runs smoothly. Co-Presidents Jaysan

Shah and Ashley John work tirelessly to lead the board to make sure everything is ready for the big day. The Chargerthon Sponsor, Dianne Schroeder, supports and guides all of those involved, guaranteeing the success of this wonderful event.

If you would like to donate to the Chargerthon, please contact Ashley John at ashleyroyjohn@ gmail.com Any money donated is helping make miracles happen for children and families in our community.

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LOCAL

Chronister, Duncan whip up successful fundraiser at 2019 Celebrity Chef BY CIERRA CRAFT

“When our audience knows the "chefs" it is more personal and engaging. They feel a connection not only to the celebrities but also the food bank. When you see such people like Sheriff Chad Chronister, Chief Ed Duncan, Mayor Rick Lott, and City Manager Bill McDaniel take a very active role - it is important to everyone and the entire community.” Chronister and Duncan were joined by Publix Apron Chef Anthony LoGerfo. The trio prepared Steak au Poivre, a French dish consisting of steak crusted with peppercorn. Throughout the evening, jokes were made about the officers’ inability to cook, but Duncan was excited to participate in the event nonetheless. “I couldn’t have asked for a better partner in this, Sheriff Chronister,” said Duncan. Chronister said he was honored

to be apart of an event that does so much for the local community. Prior to the demonstration, he admit to feeling a bit uneasy, but LoGerfo made the Sheriff and Chief feel like naturals. “It was great!” said Chronister. “We were a bit nervy, but Chef Anthony made us feel at ease.” A lunch for four with a ride along with Sheriff Chronister in the Strawberry Festival Parade was raffled off to the highest bidder. Susan Hurley won the auction, as well as the auction for dinner for six, with Chronister and Duncan, with dinner prepared by LoGerfo. Overall, the event raised over $100,000 for the United Food Bank of Plant City, between sponsorships, ticket sales, silent auction and live auctions. Mary Heysek is thrilled by the support and care of the community for the clients of the Food Bank.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister (left) and Plant City Police Chief Ed Duncan (right) were joined by Publix Apron Chef Anthony LoGerfo (center) on stage for the cooking demonstration. The trio prepared Steak au Poivre, a French dish consisting of steak, coated with peppercorns and then prepared in a pan.

he 11th Annual Celebrity Chef Dinner, benefiting the United Food Bank of Plant City, invited guests to enjoy an evening of fun, delicious food and drinks, and philanthropy. The event, held at the John R. Trinkle Center, highlighted two chefs dedicated to helping those in need: Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister and Plant City Police Chief Ed Duncan. The lawmen’s appearance drew an attendance of over 300 community members, all present in support of the United Food Bank’s mission to provide food and other needed services to low income residents of Eastern Hillsborough County. The evening began with a social, featuring cocktails, wine tastings, hors d'oeuvres and the musical accompaniment of a jazz quartet. Guests were also encouraged to step into a photo booth for pictures with Chief Duncan and Sheriff Chronister, prior to the program.

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Guests were then moved into the community room, welcomed by items up for silent auction benefiting the food bank. Some of the merchandise included a PS4 Pro, sign portraits of Presidents George H.W. Bush, Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump, as well as sports memorabilia including the Tampa Bay Lightning and former Florida Gator Tim Tebow. Attendees then moved to their seats to enjoy dinner prior to the cooking demonstration. United Food Bank Executive Director Mary Heysek welcomed everyone to the 11th annual event and spoke to the importance their support will bring to Food Bank clients. Heysek says the Celebrity Chef Committee suggested using local celebrities for this year’s event to create a deeper connection to the community. “This year was especially exciting to have local celebrities as our featured guests,” said Heysek.

Sheriff Chronister shared a peek at the completed Steak au Poirve, cooked medium rare.

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brokepoorï¬&#x201A;.com PAGE

Congratulations OLIVIA FRAZIER 2 0 1 9 F L O R I D A S T R A W B E R R Y F E S T I VA L QUEENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COURT MEMBER

STRAWBERRY EXCHANGE

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LOCAL

FSF Queen’s Pageant BY CIERRA CRAFT

Kendall Gaudens was crowned 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen.

undreds gathered for the 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Scholarship Pageant on Saturday, Jan. 19 at the Grimes Agricultural Center. The contest is presented by the Plant City Lions Club. Thirty one beautiful and talented ladies competed for the crown. The young ladies were judged on public speaking, casual wear and evening gown. Prior to the pageant, the contestants met with the judges’ panel for an individual sevenminute interview. The evening competition began with a choreography routine with the 2018 Queen Ally Burt and her Court. Emcees for the evening, 1997 Strawberry Queen

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Stephanie St. Martin Bikowski and Scott Bikowski, introduced each candidate to the stage to present the Public Speaking portion of the competition. Then, the contestants showcased their casual wear attire, worth 30% of their final score. Contestants then participated in the evening gown portion, also valued at 30% of their score. The ten semifinalists were named: Olivia Frazier, Taryn Storter, Kendall Gaudens, Jada Brown, Kiersten Struth, Kennedy Cullins, Reagan Messick, Emma Miller, Madilyn Conrad and Meghan White. For the next portion of the competition, all previous scores were eliminated to start with a

clean slate. Then, each of the top ten contestants were brought out on stage individually to answer an impromptu question, “What do you feel would be the most important quality of the 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen?” After final scores were tabulated, the coronation began with the announcement of three court members- Kennedy Cullins, Jada Brown and Olivia Frazier. Madilyn Conrad was named First Maid and finally, Kendall Gaudens was crowned 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. Queen Kendall is a 17-year-old senior at Plant City High School.

The daughter of Henry and Melissa Gaudens, the new Queen said she was shocked, but blessed by the crowning. “This is an opportunity for me to give back to the Festival and Plant City, as a whole,” said Gaudens. “I couldn’t be more proud of the four women standing next to me.” Chairman of the Board at the Florida Strawberry Festival Sandee Sytsma said the Festival couldn’t be more thrilled with the judges’ choice. “We are looking forward to another great year with these representatives,” said Sytsma.

During the Public Speaking Competition, each contestant presented a 30 second commercial. Jada Brown represented Florida Insurance Center. Brown was named a 2019 court member.

Kendall Gaudens was crowned 2019 Strawberry Queen by former 2018 Queen Ally Burt. Gaudens was overwhelmed with emotion and said she was shocked when her name was called.

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1/2 OFF expires 02/28/19

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First Month of Lessons

Congratulations Kennedy Cullins Strawberry Court

A Plant City Tradition Since 1954 www.fredsmarket.com

www.johnsonbarbeque.com

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LOCAL

Jensen’s Heart of Gold BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

Emily Pierce’s daughter Morgan was crowned the 2018 Jr. Royalty Queen. Morgan has battled cancer since she was a young girl

he 6th Annual Jensen’s Heart of Gold Foundation Gala on Feb. 16 will once again raise funds to assist Central Florida families affected by childhood cancer. Everyone is invited to don their best black and gold outfits for a dressy “Roaring 20s” themed evening at the Trinkle Center in Plant City. The program includes a buffet-style dinner by Second Plate Catering, music by The Bay Kings Band, dancing, both live and silent auctions, and drawings for prizes. The short program will feature a physician or P.A. and several testimonials by families who have benefited from the funds raised. Thanks to the generosity and word-of-mouth invites of supporters, funds raised are used by the Foundation’s network

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in Central Florida to help those families who apply for assistance. None are turned away. Emily Pierce, executive vicepresident for the non-profit’s Florida chapter and Gala organizer, explained, “They may need money for living and travel expenses, medical supplies, or even a memory-making outing with their child. Families can use the money for their current needs.” The fundraising success by the all-volunteer organization has grown each year as more have attended, from 100 guests and $13,000 the first year to $40,000 last year. More than 250 people are expected at this 2019 event. Pierce continued, “Last year we served 50 families and the more we raise, the more we can help. The organization is named

for Jensen Byrd, the Alabama boy who succumbed to Stage 4 Neuroblastoma at age five (April 2005 – August 2010). Diagnosed in late 2007, the Byrds met the Pierces while their children were undergoing treatment. Together they have realized that “every single moment is precious and good or bad, they are all worth living!” In 2011, Emily felt led to establish the Florida chapter of the 501(c)3 non-profit. Hardship assistance is available to applicant families with a child in treatment (being followed by a pediatric oncologist for cancer), whose current home address is in Citrus, Sumter, Hernando, Lake, Orange, Seminole, Brevard, Osceola, Polk, Hillsborough, Pasco, or Pinellas county. Applications are available online at jensensheartofgold.com. After 10 years, the Pierces’ own daughter Morgan continues in treatment at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. For the past year, the 15-year-old, wise-beyond-heryears beauty has been making memories by representing and inspiring her Plant City community as the Junior Royalty Queen. Of that night in 2018 when Number 100 was pronounced the winner,

Emily wrote a blog post: “… My girl, who withstood more pain, more fire, more hurdles, more heartache than any child or adult for that matter should ever know, much less endure. She won. And goodness, …she took this blessing with grace, head held high, only hearing kind words and happy thoughts. Honored to be chosen and represent. Excited to share a year with new friends…And she earned it…This year brought many friendships, and many, many happy days representing the festival she has loved all her life. A festival that loves her right back. She has had the opportunity to grow in public speaking, to meet new people, see old friends. She has sister queens for life, special girls who mean the world to us.” (Those interested can follow Morgan’s treatment progress updates at sparklyflower. wordpress.com) Individual tickets to the Gala are $75 per person and reserved tables for eight are $400. Order and donate online, or apply for assistance, at www. jensensheartofgold.com/gold-gala. Through your generosity, Jensen’s Heart of Gold Foundation can continue helping those cancerbattling families in our area to make memories with their child.

Melissa and Lynn Byrd (Jensen's parents) at the 2018 Gold Gala

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Congratulations

Jada Brown 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Court Member

414 N Alexander St Plant City, FL 33563 813.754.3561 floridainsurancecenter.com

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James McDaniel

f one word could describe James “Jim” McDaniel, it’s adventurous. An avid traveler, McDaniel has hopes to visiting all 50 states and making a trip to Ghana, Africa in the future. But travel plans aren’t the only items on McDaniel’s long list of life goals. He recently achieved one of the most time consuming items on his list. In 2018, McDaniel published his memoir, titled Living A Virtuous Life, where he chronicled his life growing up African American in Plant City, as well as his time in the U.S. Military, Kennedy Space Center and working for the City of Plant City. Do you care to share a bit about yourself? I grew up in Plant City and I am a fifth generation Floridian. Most of my family is from Morriston, FL in Levy County. I moved to Plant City to live with my grandparents in the early 1940s. What are your favorite chapters of Living a Virtuous Life? The third chapter is a lot about my experiences growing up and my time through high school. Chapter 12, called Walking in Light, is about my beliefs and experience dealing with encountering spirits. I lived in a haunted house for some time. And chapter 13 is about my legacy and things I have done. What was your experience as a project manager for the City of Plant City? My responsibilities varied; I was the project manager for the strawberry

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water tank and two projects that were touching to my life was the development of a 10 acre lake to reduce flooding at Sam Cooper Park at MLK and Lake Street, and the restoration of the Bing Rooming House. I knew the owner, and I was in and out of that house a lot. Her grandson was one of my classmates. I wanted to see the completion of Village Green before retirement. There was a lot of groundwater contamination on site, so we got permission to plant trees to help in that. I worked with the city for 36 and a half years. What is your favorite part of Plant City? The friends I encouraged along the way. We made a lot of pleasant memories. How did you feel when you held Living a Virtuous Life in your hands for the first time? I felt ‘at last I fulfilled the goal’ and now I can move on to the next goal. What does the future hold for you? If I look at my bucket list… I want to visit all 50 states, I have 10 left. I want to go to South America and Africa, maybe next year. I’d like to go to Ghana.

Find more People of Plant City on Facebook. Connecting the community one story at a time. facebook.com/peopleofplantcity Find more People of Plant City on Facebook. Connecting the community one story at a time. facebook.com/peopleofplantcity

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LOCAL

Did You Know?

The First Strawberry Festival and its First Queen BY PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES

t has been common, and even traditional, for agricultural societies to celebrate the fruit of their labors with a festival. As the strawberry grew in economic importance to the East Hillsborough and, indeed, the greater Plant City area, it became only fitting that the strawberry have its own celebration. The Plant City Board of Trade, forerunner of the Chamber of Commerce, held a “Strawberry Day” as early as January 1, 1914, and residents were encouraged to promote Plant City’s crops and tourism by sending postcards to distant friends and relatives. At a meeting of the Plant City Lions Club, July 5, 1929, Albert Schneider, first President and organizer of the Lions, suggested the members sponsor a festival that would involve Plant City and the surrounding communities. They accepted the idea and formed a committee to start planning. The City quickly got on board and City Manager John C. Dickerson was named General Manager of the nascent festival organization. Plus, the City advanced $1,000 for the committee’s operating revenue, to be repaid from the festival’s first proceeds. The organization’s incorporating Charter was approved by the State of Florida and immediately, at a meeting at City Hall, the Strawberry Festival organization elected its officers and directors: Albert Schneider, President, W. Dee Marley, Vice President, Henry H. Huff, Secretary, Henry S. Moody, Treasurer, and James W. Henderson, F. E. Cummins, and Marcus Cone, Directors. The newly incorporated Strawberry Festival organization drew up plans for the inaugural Strawberry Festival, which would include the selection and crowning

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of a Festival Queen. The site chosen was a vacant block owned by Ira M. Allen, who had homes in Michigan and Plant City. The site ran north from Baker Street along the Seaboard Railroad tracks and Michigan Avenue. It was centrally located and over the years had been used for baseball and other carnival-like activities. The dates chosen were Wednesday, March 12, 1930, through Saturday, March 15, 1930. The Festival Queen, to be selected through a contest sponsored by the Future Farmers of America, would be featured in the grand parade on opening day and would be crowned at the festival grounds. In addition to the parade and the queen contest, the festival group set plans for floats, vendors, a midway with rides, the Johnny J. Jones Carnival Shows, bands, demonstrations with plants, flowers, and a variety of food, and of course fresh strawberries. The story broke in The Plant City Enterprise on January 3, 1930, stating the dates and plans for the festival. The Plant City Enterprise, under Fenton M. Prewitt, and The Courier, under Wayne Thomas, both published every Tuesday and Friday, and kept a running commentary on the festival’s developments. And the necklace the Future Farmers of America was to present to the new Festival Queen was on display at Edgar Hull Jewelry, in the Wright Arcade. By February 18, 1930, all the festival booths had been reserved; excitement filled the air and prominent in the excitement was the suspense of the Festival Queen Contest. Plus, the Woman’s Club of Plant City and the Home Demonstration Club had agreed to present their third annual flower show in conjunction with the festival. The communities of Dover, Hopewell, Seffner, Trapnell, Lithia, Turkey Creek, Cork, and Springhead had all registered to participate. Announcements were made in the two local newspapers that nominations for festival queen were open and that any “maid” or “matron” who resides in East Hillsborough County was eligible. They could be nominated by clipping a form out of the newspaper, completing it, and submitting it to Gray Miley, who was working with the sponsoring Future Farmers of America committee. The last day to nominate someone for queen was Monday, February 24th. Voting would continue into March, lasting about 2 weeks. Ballot boxes for votes for the Strawberry Festival Queen were placed in stores about town to receive votes from the community. Each candidate would receive 5,000 votes as sort of a starting bonus. After that, each

vote was one penny, and pennies for votes were placed in clearly marked envelopes. Any resident of East Hillsborough could vote as many times as he or she wished - just deposit the pennies with your votes. By February 24th, the last day to nominate a candidate for Queen, there were 36 names submitted. Here are 33 of them: • Minnie Lee Alderman • Elizabeth Alsobrook • Mrs. Earl Barker • Mrs. Charles Daniels • Mrs. R. M. Fletcher • Ewana Glaros • Annie Ruth Harvey • Sarah Henderson • Mabel Hilsman • Mrs. Edgar Hull • Mrs. J. Edgar Knight, Jr. • Mrs. Harry Lomison • Madie Lowry • Alice Maxey • Stella Moody • Louise Nettles • Anna Mae Nettles • Ruby Pratt • Charlotte Rosenberg • Mamie Sapp • Helen Simmons • Nettie Simmons • Alice Sly • Edna Smith • Leola Sweat • Margaret Strickland • Dorothy Sutton • Opal Clair Thomas • Hazel Wiggins • Irvine Wilder • Hester White • Daisy Woodall • Viola Yates The balloting for Festival Queen began in earnest Tuesday, February 25th. Each paper, The Plant City Enterprise, and The Courier, would print the ten leading candidates on subsequent publication dates. The highest vote getter would be elected Festival Queen; the next five highest vote-getters would make up the Court. Heralds and Pages were chosen separately. It is reported that Nettie Simmons, a girl from Dover, was in the lead early, but was soon passed by Irvine Hopkins Wilder, of Midway, daughter of Calffrey La Fayette Wilder and Joanna Singletary Wilder. Irvine Wilder’s lead gave way to Charlotte Rosenberg, daughter of Sam and Fannie (Leibowitz) Rosenberg, who had a retail business in Plant City. Charlotte Rosenberg’s vote totaled nearly fifty-thousand and she became the first Strawberry Festival Queen. Her court was comprised of the next five highest vote getters – Irvine Wilder, Nettie Simmons, Alice Sly, Kathryn Dudley, and Alice Maxey. Elected as heralds were Elizabeth Carey, Marian Herring, Elizabeth Hull, and Eugenia Sanchez, and the pages elected were Katherine Andrews, Virginia Dennison,

Catherine Fletcher, and Helen Spear. Thus, the newly elected Queen and her Court began to prepare themselves for the Festival and the Grand Parade. The Festival would begin Wednesday, March 12, with the Grand Parade stepping off at 1 p.m. The coronation of the Queen was scheduled for 2:30 p.m. There followed a band concert, entertainment, vendors and rides, and more. The remaining Festival days were: Thursday, March 13 – Strawberry Day; Friday, March 14 – Tourists Day; Saturday, March 15 – Farmers Day. On opening day, the first Strawberry Festival Queen and her Court led the parade of elaborately decorated floats, decorated cars, horse-drawn carriages, and marchers. They started north of Risk/Herring Street, on Wheeler Street, and wound their way through the crowded streets in the Historic District. Wheeler, Baker, Franklin, Reynolds, Evers, Haines/ML King Blvd., Collins, Reynolds again, until turning onto Michigan and marching north to the festival grounds. The band struck up a march for the Queen and her Court as they promenaded to the throne. The Queen was preceded by her four heralds, two pages bore her train and two more carried her crown and her necklace. The platform was decorated with a red, white, and blue bunting background and an overdrape of blue material with a silver fringe. Potted palms and fern enhanced the throne in the center of the stage. Albert Schneider, Strawberry Festival President, introduced Mayor/Commissioner George A. Carey, who gave a brief speech before crowing the first Queen at 2:30 p.m., March 12, 1930. The festival coincided with an annual event of the National Business and Professional Women’s Club, (BPW), and the local chapter decided to combine its observance with festival activities. Thursday evening, March 13, the BPW hosted a banquet honoring festival officials and the queen and her Court. The banquet was held at the Masonic Hall on Evers Street just north of Mahoney Street, and was catered by women of the Eastern Star. The official estimate of the attendance at the first day of the festival was 15,000, which was impressive in that the weather was inclement and not a Chamber of Commerce day. But it was a great day for the officials, the Queen, her Court, and the many volunteers who together produced the first Strawberry Festival, which, but for the WWII years, has continued to this day. SOURCES: Plant City Photo Archives and History Center, “Mary Frances Morgan/Panky Snow Papers”, Plant City Photo Archives photo collection, Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., Plant City; Its Origin and History, East Hillsborough Historical Society, Hunter Publishing Company, Winston- Salem, North Carolina, 1984.

RIBBONCUTTINGS

Want to become a member of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce? Businesses may join the Chamber online by visiting www.plantcity.org or by calling the office at (813) 754- 3707 and speaking with Membership Director, Norm Nelson.

A large crowd assembled on Tuesday, February 12th to cut the ribbon on the beautifully updated showroom at Jarrett Scott Ford. Throughout its history, Jarrett Scott has been a leader in supporting the needs of our community through numerous non-profit organizations and the Plant City Chamber of Commerce as a valued Chamber Trustee, Board member and volunteer. Thank you Jim Scott & the entire team of Jarrett-Scott Ford! You have truly enriched Plant City and are a blessing to our entire community. "We are overwhelmed by the great turn-out that we had for our ribbon cutting and feel very fortunate to be so well supported by the Plant City community." â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Jim Scott, General Manager

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Going Places with the

2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and Court By Cierra Craft | Photos by Sassano Photography

For almost 90 years, Plant City has been represented by five regal ambassadors. These young women serve the community, the strawberry industry and the Florida Strawberry Festival with grace, stylishness and poise. The 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and Court is no exception. Meet Queen Kendall Gaudens and her First Maid Madilyn Conrad, Court Members Jada Brown, Kennedy Cullins and Olivia Frazier. These five women represent the best of Plant City, with aspirations of an amazing year ahead. With plans to meet as many fair-goers as possible and to enjoy the Strawberry Festival as a sisterhood, the 2019 Queen and Court intend to use their time as royalty wisely. Additionally, these future business leaders discuss their college and career plans, and how they intend to give back to the community we all love. With visions for a prosperous year as royalty and college plans, these Plant City women are going places. PAGE

50 Florida Strawberry Festival

Thank you to the East Hillsborough Historic Society for the use of their vintage props and for opening the doors of the 1914 Community Center for this photo shoot. Florida Strawberry Festival

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52 Florida Strawberry Festival

Queen Kendall Gaudens 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival

What was your initial reaction when your name was called as the 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen? I was in complete shock. This opportunity is one I have been looking forward to for as long as I can remember and especially after meeting the 30 other deserving contestants, I never imagined I would be chosen as Queen. I remember praying constantly, “Let Your will be done” because I knew the goal in the end would not be my doing if I accomplished it. To my surprise, I was crowned Queen and that moment wll stick with me forever. Throughout the meetings and rehearsals, I got to know almost all of the contestants and I am truly impressed not only with their resumes, but also how they carry themselves and how they treat the people around them with such kindness and respect. Any one of the 31 girls could have easily been crowned and I have a massive amount of respect and admiration for their courage and I sincerely hope they compete again next year. What are you most looking forward to in your year as Queen? I am most looking forward to meeting all of the people at the Festival and the events throughout the year. I love seeing people from all different backgrounds come together. The Florida Strawberry Festival has something for everyone and attracts people from all over every year. I am extremely proud to represent such a welcoming community and I plan to use this platform as a way to advocate for the quality people of Plant City and the Festival by serving with the same love and acceptance as they do.

What is your favorite treat from the Florida Strawberry Festival? It’s truly difficult for me to choose just one, but I absolutely love the kettle corn and Amish donuts. At a recent event with the Lions Club, we were told about Strawberry Fritters that are sold at the Lions Club booth and I for one am very excited to try those for the first time this year. Who is your biggest inspiration? One of the people that inspires me the most is my friend Jade from school. She is one of the ESE students at Plant City High School and is my buddy for game day cheer and I sometimes do her hair in the cosmetology salon. She has one of the biggest personalities I have ever seen and has the kindest heart. She makes everyone at school feel so loved without even knowing it, and I hope to have the same impact on people as she does one day. What is in store for you during 2019? This year, I will be graduating in the Top Ten of my class from Plant City High School. I will also be graduating with my AA degree from Hillsborough Community College. I plan to attend the University of Florida and begin my major in Mechanical Engineering. I also hope to obtain my Cosmetology license upon graduating high school, so I can enter the workforce while earning my degree. What is it you enjoy most about Plant City? I genuinely enjoy the people of Plant City the most. I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to travel to several other places around the nation, but no one truly comes close to Plant City in

hospitality. When my family moved here when I was 3, they started their own company and I got to witness just how welcoming and supportive the people here are. Have any of your family members served as Festival royalty? My older sister, Morgan Gaudens, served as First Maid on the 2016 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Court. I remember sitting in the front row and being so incredibly proud when they called her name time after time. She and my other sister, Taylor Gaudens, were very supportive and encouraging of me competing this year. After the coronation, they both ran up to the front of the stage with tears in their eyes and smiles on their faces. What is currently your favorite song? “Love Wins” by Carrie Underwood is one of newest favorite songs. I have always been a big Carrie Underwood fan and I believe the message behind this particular song is very appropriate for today’s society. Any books you’re currently reading? I am not currently reading any books, however, I do enjoy The Hunger Games series and I always love the Divergent series a well. Seeing a different type of society and complete opposite way of life is very interesting to me. Florida Strawberry Festival

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54 Florida Strawberry Festival

2019 Florida Strawberry Festival

First Maid Madilyn Conrad Do you have prior pageant experience? I do. I competed in multiple blueberry pageants and won First Maid my last year in the pageant. I also was Miss August for the Plant City High School Calendar Girl competition. What is the most memorable moment from the pageant? The most memorable moment from the pageant for me was when every time I walked out and the roar came from the stands, I felt so loved and confident in what I was doing. I knew no matter what, my supporters were going to be there for me. What is your favorite Festival treat? My favorite treat at the Festival would have to be the Brandon Farms Strawberry Milkshake or Pizza. My favorite ride is Orbiter and my favorite event is the livestock sales. I have spent most of my days in the livestock barns and getting to see our community turn out to support our youth is humbling. Share with our readers a bit about yourself that not everyone knows I am not your typical pageant gal. I am a 5th generation cattle rancher and some of my favorite memories have happened on our family farm. I also show cattle all over the southeastern part of the United States. What do you have planned for your future? I plan to run for state FFA office in April and based on the outcome in June, I will either dedicate a year of service to the Florida FFA Association or head to UF to get a degree in Political Science with a minor in Ag Policy and Economics. Who is your biggest inspiration? My inspiration would have to be my Dad. He is the perfect representation of a God fearing man that loves his family almost as much as his Lord. He and my mom have set a perfect example of true love for my siblings and I. I am absolutely a Daddy’s girl and I have witnessed him pour his soul into our family making sure we have everything we need to thrive in this world. I wouldn’t be who I am without him and his support. What are three words you would use to describe yourself? Authentic, passionate and laid back. What is your favorite song at the moment? My favorite song is “Kingdom” by Carrie Underwood. She talks about how life is imperfectly perfect and how we really have to appreciate the little things in life and the small town traditions that go on! Florida Strawberry Festival

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56 Florida Strawberry Festival

2019 Florida Strawberry Festival

Court Member

Kennedy Cullins Do you have prior pageant experience? Yes, last year I competed in my high schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Calendar Girl pageant. It was my first pageant and earning the title of Miss July was an eyeopening accomplishment. I also competed in Strawberry Queen last year, and although I did not make Top Ten, I had such a great time, I decided I would compete again this year. Most memorable moment from the pageant? The most memorable moment would have to be any of the rehearsals. It was a lot of fun learning the dance and the walks, but the most importantly it was so much fun getting to know all of the other 30 wonderful girls competing. This year for rehearsal, they added theme nights which was so much fun to dress up for and also an icebreaker for getting to know the other contestants. Favorite Festival treat? My favorite treat at the Festival is hands down the Fiske Fries. They are perfectly cut and crisp. Grab a bucket of them, dress them up with some malt vinegar and salt and you are good to go! I love food! I am a major foodie, I love trying all new foods everywhere I go and the Festival offers endless treats to try. Future plans? I plan to attend FSU to obtain a Doctorate in Ophthalmology to one day open my own practice here in Plant City. Who is your biggest inspiration? My biggest inspiration is definitely my mom. She has led such a great example of hard work paying off. Three words to describe yourself? Punctual, I cannot stand to be unorganized or late. Proactive, when I have my mind set on something, such as Strawberry Queen, I got out of my way to do everything possible in order to achieve my goal. Generous, I found myself taking the problems of those around me and making them my own to create a solution. When it comes to my friends and family, I am the go-to girl who will always have your back. Favorite song at the moment? Thank You, Next [by Ariana Grande]. While I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a bunch of exboyfriend problems, the song to me stands for appreciating your past actions that have led you to where you are today. Florida Strawberry Festival

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58 Florida Strawberry Festival

2019 Florida Strawberry Festival

Court Member

Jada Brown Prior pageant experience? Yes, I have been competing in pageant’s since I was 1-year-old. I competed in Harvest Queen, Junior Royalty, The Blueberry Festival Pageants, and was the 2018 Cover Girl for the Strawberry Crest High School Calendar Girl Pageants. Memorable moment from the pageant? My most memorable moment from this pageant is realizing how much I learned and how all of my hard work paid off. Even before the announcement of Top Ten, when I finished my last walk in the evening gown portion, I felt so accomplished. I knew I had prepared and done everything I could have done onstage, I gained confidence and better speaking/interview skills from this pageant. Favorite Festival Treat? My most favorite treat from the Festival are deep-fried Oreos! Oreos has always been one of my favorite treats as a kid, but they taste ten times better deep fried. The chocolate and icing are all melted and gooey on the inside which taste amazing! Something not everyone knows about you? Not everyone knows how determined of a person I am. No matter the setbacks I have encountered in pageants or volleyball, I still stay dedicated to myself and work hard to improve. College and career plans? I plan to go to a Florida university to major in Biology and then attend Dental school. I hope to own my own orthodontic practice right here in Plant City someday, helping my community the same way they’ve helped me. Inspiration? My biggest inspiration is my mom. I hope one day I can be as great of a woman as she is. She is so kind-hearted, understanding, supportive, fun and my best friend. She works super hard to provide for our family and has always motivated and taught me to believe in myself. Three words to describe you? Strong-willed, because I’m very determined. Confident, because I always believe in my ability to succeed and a leader because I love putting my passions and dreams into effect to better society. Favorite song? My favorite song is pretty old, but I really like “Scars to Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara. It really shows young girls that you don’t need to change yourself for anyone. Florida Strawberry Festival

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60 Florida Strawberry Festival

2019 Florida Strawberry Festival

Court Member

Olivia Frazier Prior pageant experience? Yes! I did several local pageants and a few in the Miss America branch. I competed locally in Junior Royalty, Habitat for Humanity Miss Strawberry, Blueberry Queen and Harvest Queen. Most memorable moment from the pageant? Waiting for the Top Ten to answer the impromptu question and then the calling on the Top Five seemed so fast but it actually took awhile. I wasn’t really nervous! Just excited to see the results no matter what happened. Favorite Festival treat? My favorite food stand is definitely the island noodle stand! The night concerts have always been a favorite for me as well. Something not everyone knows about you? I love to do makeup, my own and other people! I’ve done a couple proms, Homecomings, and events but I did my first wedding makeup look for a family friend in December, which is super exciting! It’s not my career choice, but I always want to freelance in it. College and career plans? I want to become an R.N. and hopefully work at Tampa General Hospital. I also want to do freelance makeup. Biggest inspiration? My grandma is my biggest inspiration! She was a pastor’s wife for about 40 years and I have never known someone to be more accepting, hospitable and generous. I hope to be half the woman she is. Three words to describe yourself? I would say I am compassionate, spirited and free. Favorite song? My sweet friend Helen Shtefan sings at church frequently and any song she sings in phenomenal and so moving. Especially, “God is So Good” by Passion and “Shepherd” by Bethel Music. Florida Strawberry Festival

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Kool and the Gang Saturday, March 2

SUNDAY, MARCH 3

2019 FL STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL®

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28

FRIDAY, MARCH 1

Florida Blue Senior Citizens Day Those aged 60+ receive $2 off $10 admission

Publix Food & Fun Friday – Present (3) Publix or Publix GreenWise brand non-perishable items at an entry gate and receive your choice of a Florida Strawberry Festival Commemorative “The Best Fest Publix Reuseable Bag” or a voucher for $5 off the $30 wristband and ride most mechanical rides for only $25

AT&T Ride-A-Thon Day Present voucher from participating AT&T stores and receive purchase $20 wristband for $17 Public contest: Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown @2:30 PM at Kandu Magic Show Stage Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 PM – The Oakridge Boys 7:30 PM – Alabama FFA & 4-H: Mosaic Youth Swine Show @7PM in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena PAGE

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Public contests: Amish Donut Eating Contest @2PM in Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 PM – Willie Nelson & Family 7:30 PM – Brothers Osborne FFA & 4-H: Dairy Contestant Judging @1PM in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

SATURDAY, MARCH 2 Free Kids Day / Youth Parade Day / Circle K Super Saturday Wristband Day Kids thru high school age are admitted free; Wristband for $30 entitles wearer to ride most mechanical rides from 10AM to 11PM 11AM – 46th Annual Youth Parade begins at State Farmers’ Market Public contests: Youth Strawberry Stemming Contest; 2PM, Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown @2:30 PM at Kandu Magic Show Stage Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 PM – Home Free 7:30 PM – Kool & The Gang FFA & 4-H: Dairy Show Showmanship @11AM and Dairy Show at 1PM in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

Coca-Cola Family Day Present any empty Coke brand can or plastic bottle at entry gate to purchase $25 Wristband for $20; entitles wearer to ride most mechanical rides from 10AM to 11PM 9 – 10 AM Hillsborough County Baby Contest Registration at FSF Administrative Offices Public contests: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM Baby Contest; Decorated Diaper Contest; Baby Features; Diaper Derby @ Publix Showcase Tent Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown @2:30 PM at Kandu Magic Show Stage Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 PM – Chicks with Hits featuring Terri Clark, Pam Tillis and Suzy Bogguss 7:30 PM – Steven Tyler and The Loving Mary Band FFA & 4-H in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena Dairy Showmanship (Adults) @11AM Dairy Pee Wee Showmanship @11:30AM Dairy Costume Ball @ 12:30PM Youth Plant Sale @ 2PM

Home Free Saturday, March 2

MONDAY, MARCH 4

TUESDAY, MARCH 5

Grand Parade Day / Ride-A-Thon Day $20 Wristband purchased at the Midway entitles wearers to ride most mechanical rides from 10AM-11PM

Breyers TWOSDAY / Ride-A-Thon Day ALL kids up to 17 are admitted FREE with paid Adult. It's Your Choice! From noon to 11PM, choose to ride any single ride for $2 or ride most mechanical rides all day with $20 wristband purchased at the Midway.

1PM – Grand Parade Begins in downtown Plant City & passes by Festival on Reynolds St. @ 2PM Public contests: Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, 2:30PM @ Kandu Magic Show Stage Strawberry Spaghetti Eating Contest, 5PM, Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 PM – Pat Boone 7:30 PM – Martina McBride FFA & 4-H in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 3PM – Lamb Jumping Contest 7PM – Lamb Costume Contest

Willie Nelson and Family Friday, March 1

Steven Tyler and the Loving Mary Band Sunday, March 3

Public contests: Adult Strawberry Stemming Contest, 2PM in Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, 2:30PM at Kandu Magic Show Stage Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 PM – Drifters, Platters & Cornell Gunter's Coasters 7:30 PM – NEEDTOBREATHE FFA & 4-H in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 3PM – Lamb Showmanship 5PM - Lamb Show

Pompeyo Dog Show

Daily at 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Florida Strawberry Festival

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Old Dominion Sunday, March 10

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6

THURSDAY, MARCH 7

American Heroes Day / Ride-A-Thon Day All active, reserve, retired military veterans, law enforcement and first responders are admitted free with valid ID.

Florida Blue Senior Citizens Day. Patrons 60 years of age and older get $2 off the gate admission of $10.

$20 wristband purchased at Midway entitles wear to ride most mechanical rides from noon to 11PM Public contests: Super Dog Mega Corndog Eating Contest, 1PM @ Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, 2:30PM at Kandu Magic Show Stage Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 PM – Gene Watson 7:15 PM – Honor American Heroes 7:30 PM – STYX FFA & 4-H in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena - 6PM – Mosaic Youth Steer Show

AT&T Ride-A-Thon Day. Present voucher from participating AT&T stores and receive purchase $20 wristband for $17 Public contests: Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest, 2PM, Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, 2:30PM, Kandu Magic Show Stage

FFA & 4-H in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena – 7 PM – Mosaic Youth Steer Showmanship

Daily at 11 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

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Monday, March 4

Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 10 AM – The Kingston Trio 3:30 PM – The Letterman 7:30 PM – for KING & COUNTY

Robinson’s Racing Pigs PAGE

Martina McBride

Grand Parade Day Monday, March 4

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Florida Strawberry Festival

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WHAT'S NEW 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Battle of the Bands The 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Battle of the Bands competition is here! Preliminary battles will take place in the Publix Showcase Tent on Thursday, February 28, Tuesday, March 5 and Thursday, March 7. The final battle event will take place on the Wish Farms Sound Stage on Saturday, March 9, 2019 at 3:30PM. Over $15,000 and prizes up for grabs!!! Rock on! Pompeyo Dog Show Jorge, Natalya, and their wonderful dogs have been performing together for over ten years throughout the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean with extraordinary success. They have been featured in such venues as Circus Sarasota, Lone Star Circus, Circus Vazquez, and as of more recent, the hit television show, America’s Got Talent season 12 and finished as a semi-finalist. The Kandu Magic Show The Kandu Magic Show has traveled nationwide entertaining family audiences performing at conventions, fairs, festivals, with symphony orchestras, and even at a zoo! Kandu and Jill “The Music Lady” create a show like no other. Incorporating live music, sound effects, sight gags, slapstick comedy and audience participation, this show captivates both the young and the young at heart. Paul Bunyan Lumberjack vs. Lumberjills Show The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show is returning to the Florida Strawberry Festival with a brand-new act! Joining the Big Burly Lumberjacks will be the Lumberjills who are ready for fun and friendly competition. This will be a Battle Royale you don’t want to miss!

FRIDAY, MARCH 8 Tampa Bay Times Day on the Midway / Moonlight Magic Night From noon to 10PM receive $5 discount with a Tampa Bay Times coupon for the $20 Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book Moonlight Magic – 10PM – 2AM Everyone entering Midway is required to purchase $25 wristband for rides Public contests: Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, 2:30PM, Scott’s World of Magic Stage Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie Eating Contest, 3PM, Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 PM – Tanya Tucker 7:30 PM – Chris Janson FFA & 4-H in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena – 6 PM – Beef Breed Showmanship

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Mr. & Miss Berry Mr. Berry and Miss. Berry, the Florida Strawberry Festival’s official mascots, love meeting our guests and having their picture taken! There is no better way to commemorate your visit to the Festival than by getting a picture with THE berry best! Mr. and Miss Berry Meet and Greets take place each day. No official Festival photos will be available, so make sure you bring your phone or camera!

Farm Worker Appreciation Day / Circle K Super Saturday Wristband Day

Monster Jam Truck Come see and take pictures with the original designed Monster Jam truck. It’s a BIG hit! The Monster Jam Truck is a preview for the World finals that will take place in Orlando in May.

Public contests: Baby Parade, 10:15AM, GT Grandstands

Little Mansion Little Mansion is an original alternative/indie rock project featuring some of the best musicians in Tampa Bay, including recording artist Logan Grant on lead vocals. Influences include Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, Weezer, The Bleachers and Third Eye Blind. Ladies of Lee This ensemble has given numerous students the opportunity to utilize their desire to sing for the glory of God and the edification of the Church. The Ladies of Lee is comprised of women representing a variety of majors at Lee University. Come and enjoy the fellowship and sounds of the Ladies of Lee!

Brothers Osborne Friday, March 1

$30 wristband purchased at the Midway will entitle wearer to ride most mechanical rides from 10AM – 11PM

Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 PM – FSF Battle of the Bands Finale 7:30 PM – Keith Sweat FFA & 4-H in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 10AM - Mosaic Youth Livestock Judging 7PM – Mosaic Youth Steer Sale

Paul Jr. of American Chopper Motorcycle master Paul Teutul Jr. has been molding metal into shape since the age of 12, when he began his apprenticeship at his father’s steel business. He’s widely recognized as the chief designer and fabricator of some of the world’s most famous motorcycles, as featured in the hit television series American Chopper on the Discovery Channel. Dakin Dairy Farmers Milking Show Dakin Dairy Farms mission is to produce superior quality, farm fresh milks, cheeses and butters. Owned and operated by a multigenerational Florida Dairy Farm family, we invite you to visit the exhibit to taste the difference in Dakin Dairy Farms products.

Enjoy Ride-A-Thon Day in the Belle City Midway February 28 & March 4-7

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NEEDTOBREATHE Tuesday, March 5

SUNDAY, MARCH 10 Coca-Cola Family Day: Present any empty Coke brand can or plastic bottle product at entry gate to receive a $5 voucher off the $25 wristband to ride most mechanical rides from 10AM – 11PM

A Lasting Impact

Public contest: Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, 2:30PM, Kandu Magic Show Stage Drawings: 1 PM – Kitchen Craft Cookware Drawing, Neighborhood Village

By Cierra Craft

2 PM – Pulaski Vacation Giveaway, TECO Expo Hall 5 PM – Stingray Chevrolet Corvette Drawing Entertainment on Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 PM – Bill Anderson & Bobby Bare 7:30 PM – Old Dominion FFA & 4-H in Patterson Co. Livestock Arena - 11AM- Youth Beef Breed Show

Tanya Tucker

Friday, March 8

ccording to City Manager Bill McDaniel, preparations for the Florida Strawberry Festival are an “all hands on deck” operation. From city departments to traffic enforcement to the economy, the Florida Strawberry Festival leaves a lasting impact on Plant City beyond the fairgrounds. With an estimated half-a-million guests attending the Florida Strawberry Festival each year, the preparations for the annual event begin months in advance. McDaniel says various city departments will have a hand in the festival, offering support of its services in addition to its normal duties. The police department allocate officers who can patrol the area, as well as assist in traffic backups. The fire department prepares to offer EMS services to fairgoers, staff, volunteers, etc. Plant City’s Solid Waste, Code Enforcement and Traffic divisions offers services such as garbage collection, inspections for booths, plumbing and walkways, as well as provide traffic barricades and safety precautions, respectively. Additionally, McDaniel says the city’s economy sees “a positive impact” from sales and hotel stays. According to the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council’s latest study (conducted in 2015), the Festival brings several hundred jobs to the area and added a net $11 million dollars to Hillsborough County economy.

for KING & COUNTRY Thursday, March 7

Florida Strawberry Festival

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Ask President Paul Davis By Cierra Craft

Paul Davis has served as Florida Strawberry Festival President for one year, but has been involved with the annual fair in some capacity for 43 years. Serving on the Festival’s board for eleven years and for 32 years as a Deputy with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. Davis sat down with FOCUS to share some of his favorite memories of the Florida Strawberry Festival, as well as his thoughts about the 2019 event, where the Festival expects over a half million people will attend. What is your favorite aspect of being President of the Florida Strawberry Festival? Being able to be apart of the community and hand out scholarships and checks to help students go to college. We have such as rich history… I see old friends and make new friends every year. My dad told me “get a job you love and you’ll never go to work.” As trite as it is, we offer a slice of Americana, where you can see the best the community has to offer. What is your favorite memory of the Festival? My brother and I, he was 15 and I was 13, were allowed to bring a date. My mother said, ‘you two better be standing there at 6:00 p.m.’ That day I screamed like a baby on one of the rides. I also buy my mom a gift every year and one year I bought a surfer’s cross for $2.00. My mom still has that cross to this day. I also remember one year it was after the Dennis Lee show, and it was storming, I mean a downpour. Mike Sparkman was President at the time and he was soaked holding an umbrella over the special needs kids boarding

Festival President Paul Davis

the bus. They come every year to see Dennis Lee and Mike was drenched helping them get back on the bus; his hair was wet, his shirt was soaked, but seeing that, I realized that’s what we’re all about, that’s why we’re different. What are you most looking forward to at the 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival? Going to the ag barns, on pig judging day, you’ll see kids in the pin sleeping with their pigs. When you see that passion for agriculture, it warms your heart. Whether it’s pigs, steers, etc., most of the kids use the money they earn to pay for college. Then, the buyers are great about donating the meat to places such as the Food Bank, Children’s Home, etc. It’s just exponential how good it is for our community. What is your favorite treat from the Festival? It’s a toss up: Always Strawberry Shortcake, I have one at least once per day of the Festival. I also always get Amish donuts and Fiske Fries. What is a day in your life like at the Festival? Early in the morning, we look at the numbers from the sales and make sure everything lines up. Then, I handle complaints from the previous day by 8:30 or 9:00 a.m. People often say they didn’t expect to hear back from me until after the Festival, so they appreciate when we go the extra mile to call them back. Then I was tour every gate and make sure everyone has what they need, but I walk through every single booth and talk with vendors. I will also meet with ride operators, inspectors and the fire marshal to make sure everything is in order for a safe and happy day at the Festival. After that, I try to attend as many events as I can on the schedule.

Prior to becoming President of the Festival, Paul served as a Major with the HCSO. He worked at the Florida Strawberry Festival with security and in the 1980s, he met Garth Brooks. PAGE

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What makes the Florida Strawberry Festival a success? It’s our volunteers. We meet with everyone in parking and let them know ‘you start our guests’ festival experience.’ Then we meet with everyone working ticket booths and remind them to greet everyone as they come in. We have over 2,000 volunteers and Festival Ambassadors are there to help. They love the community, Festival, and people; they have a servant’s heart. Our volunteers and Board of Directors put in hundreds of hours, some times 10, 12, 14 hour days to make sure everyone has a great time at the Festival.

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ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

JIM SCOTT

By Cierra Craft

Jim Scott thoroughly enjoys his role as Associate Director of the Florida Strawberry Festival, a position he has held since 2015, when he was asked to join the illustrious group. Like all Festival “redcoats,” Scott holds a leadership position as Chairperson of the Ambassadors. Scott said: “The Ambassadors are roving volunteers that roam the Festival Grounds looking for people in need. That could be for directions on the grounds, or times for particular shows, or they could be seeking help finding a particular food vendor. The Ambassadors field a wide variety of questions. Over 300 people volunteer to be Ambassadors over the 11 days of the Festival. We couldn't do it without these volunteers.” Scott grew up in suburban Detroit and attended Michigan State University. In 1995, he then began working for Ford Motor Company and one year later, was transferred to sunny Orlando. “I realized that I didn't want to move back up north,” said Scott. “So, I quit Ford in 1999 and went into business with the Jarrett family.” Scott serves as the General Manager and an acting partner of the dealership since 2004. The dealership opened in 1912 as Fletcher Ford, before it was purchased by Wilson Davis decades later. The Jarrett family purchased the dealership in 1995 and eleven years later, it was renamed Jarrett-Scott Ford. Scott says his favorite memories of the Festival are anytime he and his wife, Leigh, and sons, Nick and Conner, have purchased a livestock animal from one of the 4-H or FFA students, because it supports that student’s endeavors. “To see the excitement in their faces after all the hard work that they've put in raising that animal and getting it ready for the sale,” said Scott. “It's great to be a part of that process.” As 2019 ushers in another year of Strawberry Festival fun, Scott says he is most looking forward to the concert experience at the Wish Farms Soundstage. “I am looking forward to experiencing our new concert venue again,” said Scott. “Last year was the first year, and we've made some tweaks to the lighting and sound and I am excited to witness it in person.” PAGE

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TRANSFORMING LIFE CHURCH CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF SELLING STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKES AT THE FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL By Cheryl Johnston

Transforming Life Church is celebrating its 40th year of selling strawberry shortcake desserts at the Florida Strawberry Festival. The adventure began in 1979 when the church was known as Turkey Creek Assembly of God. Even though that name was changed several years ago to Transforming Life Church, the strawberry shortcake booth signage still referenced Turkey Creek Assembly in order to keep continuity with faithful customers. This year all signs will read Transforming Life Church. Over the years the funds raised from the shortcake sales have been supplemental income for the church, with a large portion benefiting missionaries. Pastor Kyle Judah explained, “Our church also used the funds for missions trips to Haiti, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, and various Latin American countries where we have shared the Gospel and help to build churches. This summer we are taking a team to Guatemala where will be build four homes for needy families.” The church also uses the funds to help to the local community. Already, the church partners with multiple schools on a regular basis to meet needs for students and families that could use help. “We also host a big back-to-school event in the summer and distribute school supplies to community children. At Christmastime, we work with five local schools to give toys to students whose families would be blessed by the gifts.” As to the strawberry shortcake outreach effort, booth coordinator Bill Bowers offered, “We keep our product simple. We serve our own secret sauce that includes the best locally-grown Plant City strawberries around over sheet cake from Winn Dixie, and top it with whipped cream.” When customers ask if the strawberries could be served over biscuits, Bowers has a standard reply: “Biscuits are for gravy!” Transforming Life Church and its team of volunteers are thankful to be located in the Strawberry tents near gate 1, where fairgoers will also find vendors, entertainment and plenty of seating. Enjoying this church’s wonderful strawberry shortcake has become a tradition for many families. Pastor Judah hopes you’ll make it one of yours. “It is my opinion that Christians and the Church should be the most generous people on the planet because God has blessed us so much,” he shared. “So come by to have our world famous strawberry shortcake and help us change lives in our community and around the world.” Florida Strawberry Festival

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Beyond The Main Stage:

Florida Strawberry Festival Welcomes Battle of the Bands By Anthony Bolesta

The Florida Strawberry Festival welcomes big names in music to headline the Wish Farms Soundstage for the 11-day event. But this year, to introduce something fresh and new to the musical entertainment, the festival is welcoming local bands to participate in the Florida Strawberry Festival Battle of the Bands. The competition welcomed artists of various genres, including Blues and Jazz to Alternative Rock and even Rap and R&B. Florida Strawberry Festival Public Relations & Media Representative Jennifer Morgan said “The event is meant to be a “win-win”, allowing the artists a chance to showcase their talent, while providing a great entertainment value to the guests of the festival. Morgan added the public was asked for vote for their favorite bands on social media and the cumulative votes determined the top nine. In the Preliminary Competition, the top nine will be divided into groups of three to perform in the Publix Showcase Tent on Feb. 28, March 5 and March 7 at 6:00 p.m. The top three bands will then be notified of their standing. The third place winner will be awarded $1,000 and the remaining two bands will compete on the Wish Farms Soundstage on March 9 at 3:30 p.m in the finale. In the final round of the battle, a panel of distinguished judges will provide feedback to the performers and their vote is worth 50% of the final score. The guests in the audience will vote, comprising the other 50% of the final score. Morgan says the top two teams will receive big prizes for reaching the finale.

Access Recording. Finally, the Grand Prize winner will receive a trophy, a ten thousand dollar cash prize, 25 hours of recording time, as well as a live studio video also with All Access Recording.” The Florida Strawberry Festival is eager to hear the feedback from everyone involved; from the guests and performers to the committee members. Morgan adamantly expressed that festival guests will enjoy the talent, while providing local talent the opportunity to perform on the main stage, where so many talented stars have performed previously. Morgan said: “This event is going to be very enjoyable for our guest and those who are participating! If anyone is even remotely thinking about becoming a participant, it would be beneficial for them to attend to see what it’s all about. I think it’s a treat our guests have been missing out on- it's going to be a hit!” If You Go: Battle of the Bands is free to attend with paid gate admission to the Florida Strawberry Festival. Hours of Operation: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Tickets: Adults (ages 13+): $10 Children (ages 6-12): $5 Children (ages 5 and under): FREE with paid adult admission Discount tickets are available at participating Publix Super Markets from Jan. 31 through March 10.

Morgan said, “The second place winner will be awarded a trophy, as well as a five thousand dollar cash prize with 10 hours of recording time with All Florida Strawberry Festival

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The Florida Strawberry Festival management team is one big happy family, according to long-term employee Ellany Johnson. As the person responsible for overseeing the more than 400 vendors, exhibitors and concessionaires each year, she is proud to say, “All of our staff loves the Festival and we want it to be successful. Thanks to our president, Paul Davis, it’s a wonderful atmosphere among the co-workers and everyone involved. We all help each other to accomplish the hospitality that’s so important for our guests, volunteers and vendors.” Iowa-born Ellany Johnson grew up in Plant City and began her relationship with the Florida Strawberry Festival as a vendor of Christian-themed books and Bibles in 1972. In the pastorate for 24 years at Youman’s Baptist Church with her husband, the couple also owned a Christian bookstore on May Street before they relocated to Reynolds Street. In her early years as a volunteer, she was responsible for setting up the Shoebox Float competition in the downtown Hillsboro Bank lobby before space was created in its present location. Then, for several years afterward, Johnson scheduled all the local entertainment in the first show tent established for that purpose. In 1989, she joined the staff to work in the ticket office and eventually managed those operations. Next she became the main office receptionist, then office manager, and finally into the position she holds today – supervising the Festival’s vendor participation. Recognized by her peers as a great organizer, Johnson enjoys her work of processing applications, gathering necessary paperwork, and helping to problem-solve for exhibitors.

Meet Ellany Johnson A Labor of Love and Legacy of Hard Work By Cheryl Johnston

“We actually have a waiting list of others who would like to sell their products at our Festival,” Johnson explained. “We strive to not overstock on any particular products so we’ll build a partnership with our vendors,” she offered. “We want them all to make money, since for many this is their livelihood. They need us and we need them. Over the years we’ve all become like family.” Each year prior to opening day, Festival management hosts a dinner for approximately 700 folks who sell and exhibit products at the 11-day event. “It’s like old home week,” Johnson shared. “Everyone is happy to see each other again and hear about their new product and fair food offerings.” Alluding to the baseball-themed “It’s a Hit” title of this year’s Festival, she continued, “It’s gonna be a hit for sure with lots of new things in every area of our fair.” As to new foods, guests should sample the Black Forest Funnel Cake (a chocolate-flavored funnel cake with whipped topping and fresh-cut strawberries) by The Best Around and the strawberry-themed hamburger from Carousel Foods (hamburger dressed with gouda cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato and strawberry mayonnaise, sandwiched on a donut topped with strawberry glaze and strawberry relish). Another new item is vegan ice cream.

Ellany is joined by fellow Festival management team members, Tim Lovett and Sandee Sytsma. The relationship the staff of the Festival share is a big one. PAGE

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It’s almost here! Ellany Johnson and the entire Florida Strawberry Festival team hopes visitors and locals see the 2019 event as the best yet. With your support, the new exhibits, new products and new foods to enjoy, there truly is something for everyone. They suggest, “Visit often this year to experience everything at one of the finest festivals in the country – and bring your friends, too!”

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Training to be Royalty By Sherrie Mueller

Preparation to compete for the coveted title of Florida Strawberry Festival Queen doesn’t begin days or even months before the pageant. It is a process that spans, for most contestants, at least a year. Focus recently had an opportunity to meet with the 2019 Queen Kendall Gaudens and her Court: First Maid Madi Conrad, Jada Brown, Kennedy Cullins and Olivia Frazier to ask how they prepared and found success competing for the crown.

Kennedy Cullins had her hair and makeup professionally done by her "Coach" Kellie Collins.

Focus: “How long ago or at what point did you start planning to participate in the Pageant?” Queen Kendall: “ As far back as I can remember I wanted to compete in the Pageant.” Madi: “All my life I have attended the pageants and knew one day I would be in it. Last year it hit me . . .I would be in the next one!” Focus: “Did you participate in other pageants to prepare for the Strawberry Queen Pageant?” Madi: “I participated in the Blueberry pageant for 4 years. I also competed in the Plant City High School Calendar Girl Contest.” Kennedy: “I competed in the PCHS Calendar Girl Contest this school year. I also competed in the Strawberry Queen Pageant last year and gained experience.” The girls agreed that participating in a pageant before Strawberry Queen was a great way to prepare and get experience with the pageant PAGE

76 Florida Strawberry Festival

All of the Strawberry Queen and Court members competed in other pageants for experience . Olivia Frazier was crowned 2017 Hillsborough County Fair Harvest Queen.

process. The group also said they each spent months shopping for the perfect outfit. Focus: “How many hours did you spend in search for the perfect outfits to wear for the interview and stage competition?” Jada: I spent many days, probably a month or two searching for my outfits. Queen Kendall: “I spent several weekends looking for clothes and put in lots of time with online shopping.” Focus: Where did you find the perfect outfits? Queen Kendall: “I found my formal at Regalia in Orlando. My Interview dress came from Marshall’s in Plant City. I found my casual wear and shoes online.” Madi: “My gown and business wear came from Regalia. I found my casual wear online.” Focus: “Did you have a coach help you? If so, how did your coach help you?”

It takes a team to help girls become pageant ready. Olivia Frazier recruited Allee Jones, makeup artist and Katie Butson, hairstylist and coach. Katie was the 2004 Strawberry Festival Queen.

Kennedy: “Kellie Collins helped me! She did my hair and make up the day of the pageant. She helped me with my walk, interview and clothes selection.” Olivia: Katie Butson helped me. She helped me with “buzz words” which really helped in the interview and onstage question.” All five girls had a pageant coach and said the coach assisted them in getting their thoughts together and in Kendall’s words, “The coach helps you to portray the best version of yourself.” Focus: “Did you start a fitness program to help prepare?” Olivia: “I run and lift weights at Planet Fitness.” Queen Kendall: “I am on the competitive cheer team at my school. I get plenty of exercise at practice.” Jada: “I play volleyball for my school and am on a competitive travel volleyball team.”

Focus: “Did you start a nutrition routine to eat healthy? Olivia: “I disciplined myself to eat a tiny piece of chocolate instead of the whole bar! I was more cautious.” Madi: “I am more conscious of food with sugar.” Kennedy: “I tried to gain weight to better fill in my clothes.” Queen Kendall: “I tried to stay away from fast food.”

I had knowledge of agriculture and experience with Public Speaking through FFA competitions. Focus: “The day of the pageant and interview did you have a professional do your hair and makeup?” Kennedy: “My coach doubled as my hair and makeup artist.” Queen Kendall: “My coach did both!” Madi: “Yes, we also had a practice hair day

Kendall Gaudens had her hair rolled and styled by her Coach Tiffany.

Focus: “How did you prepare for the interview portion?” Jada: “I made a notebook of facts on Plant City and Strawberries. I “googled” information and went to the 1914 Building to learn history. I had many family members and friends ask me questions constantly. I also had mock interviews to prepare.” Kennedy: “I had lots of mock interviews with my coach and her friends. I also studied the website of the Strawberry Festival and got information off of Instagram.” Olivia: “Former Queen Samantha Sun shared with me her book of information that helped her with her interview.” Queen Kendall: “I made a notebook from my online research on the Festival website and the Florida Strawberry Growers Association website.” Madi: “I asked family for information. My involvement with FFA was an advantage in that

before the pageant. I have so much hair we wanted to make sure it would hold. Focus: “Do you have any extra “tips” you could share that we didn’t ask?” Jada: “I walked around the house in my pageant shoes. I even did chores in them.” Queen Kendall: “I put on my competition shoes often and walked around the house to get use to them. I bought my shoes off of EBay and we painted them to get the right color. I also put charcoal powder on my teeth. It turned them black. I rinsed my teeth and then brushed them with toothpaste and a brush. It was supposed to brighten my teeth.” Madi: “I used teeth whitening trays from my dentist to brighten my smile.” Olivia: “I used the Crest Whitening Strips for my smile.”

Focus: “A lot of work goes into competing for the crown of Strawberry Queen. What was your motivation to enter the pageant?” Jada: “I wanted to be a role model and to make a cultural difference.” Madi: I have never missed a pageant. The pageant is a big part of Plant City History.” Queen Kendall: “My family moved to Plant City when I was three years old. We didn’t have family here. My parents opened a business in downtown

Kendall Gaudens is interview ready in the studio of her Coach.

Plant City. We were touched by the way the people here have accepted us and supported us. We love the family environment Plant City offers. I want to give back to the community and show the love that has been so freely given to me by the people of Plant City.” Five beautiful young ladies have earned the opportunity to represent our community as the 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and Court. These high school girls worked hard and put in many hours pursuing this opportunity. As a community we are blessed to have such bright, motivated young ladies as a reminder of all that is “right” with the youth of today. Congratulations, ladies! We look forward to seeing you shine at the 84th Annual Florida Strawberry Festival. Enjoy your year!

Florida Strawberry Festival

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Bountiful Blessings: Liberty Southern Baptist Church leads outreach to carnival workers By Cierra Craft

Furthermore, the traveling workers often sleep in bunkhouses or RVs. The church allows for some to park their RVs on the property for the duration of the festival. The needs of the midway employees are easy to give- food, clothing and compassion. Yet, many are also in need of and appreciate a listening ear. “You get to know the workers and they remember you,” said Fredette. “We just listen to them and talk with them; ministering if they need it.”

As most of the community gathers to celebrate the strawberry harvest and enjoy fair foods, others in the community are gathered for a different reason all together. Liberty Southern Baptist Church, located at 2505 W. Granfield Avenue near the Florida Strawberry Festival, open its Fellowship Hall so members can serve breakfast, lunch and dinner to the hundreds of carnival workers In Plant City during the 11-day extravaganza.

It’s no secret that Plant City folks have long been known for their hospitality. If you’d like to get involved in this hands-on outreach by donating cash, clothing, or your volunteer time and energy, please call 813-752-5040. The team of Campers on a Mission and Liberty Southern Baptist Church would love your help.

In general, fairgoers are probably unaware that beyond the flashing lights of midway rides, many midway employees struggle financially to make ends meet as they travel between festivals. But being good neighbors, Pastor Michael and Gina Fredette wanted to help. Eight years ago, the church decided to partner with Campers on Mission, an interdenominational Christian group, to serve the carnival workers’ needs. “The food at these fairs can be really expensive and a lot of workers aren’t paid until the end of the fair,” said Gina Fredette. “Then, they have travel expenses to get to the next festival and by that time, they’re out of money to eat.” The church has a heart for this type of practical ministry. Every Wednesday, Liberty Southern Baptist Church opens its Fellowship Hall to serve the community as a food pantry, where many stand in long lines for the distribution of groceries. The food is donated by the Feeding America organization and local supermarkets. But during the Strawberry Festival, those food donations are also used to prepare meals for the hungry out-oftowners.

Volunteers not only prepare three home cooked meals per day, but they also prepare lunches to go for the carnival workers. Visitors are encouraged to take a bagged lunch of sandwiches, fruit, etc., if needed.

The church members serve three home-cooked meals daily to the workers, often preparing those in advance with 12 to 15 slow cookers simmering at once. Volunteers also prepare bagged lunches, for those who need a quick to-go option or an extra meal throughout the day. Fredette says when the church began this outreach mission, they served around 5,000 meals over the 11-days. Now, the group serves as many as 25,000 meals during each festival. But the volunteers’ efforts don’t stop there. In September, the congregation begins collecting clothing and toiletries to fulfill those needs, as well. “Our youth group makes toiletry bags with the essentials,” said Fredette. “We offer clothing for men and women- black pants, shoes, and black socks. We just want to give them an opportunity to get ahead.”

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78 Florida Strawberry Festival

In addition to slow cooker meals, volunteers also prepare meats such as sausages on the flat top grill.

Florida Strawberry Festival

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college. The buyers get the opportunity to do a great service by supporting a local students’ efforts and often donate the meat of their purchase to those in need. “The Florida FFA Foundation, The United Food Bank, Florida Baptist Children's home and other food banks” are a few of the organizations that reap the benefits of this charitable giving.

In the 2018 Mosaic Steer Show, Jake Stines, a member of the Plant City FFA Chapter, exhibited the overall grand champion steer, and Jace Stines, a member of the Tomlin Middle FFA Chapter, exhibited the overall reserve grand champion steer.

Agriculture: A Pillar of Our Community By Anthony Bolesta

Agriculture is arguably the most important science in the world. Indeed, if not for agriculture, we would not be able to function as a society with a wide range of trades and careers. Agriculture was the first honest profession that allowed society to truly come into form.

Many generations of agriculture students return to the festival, to either lend a hand or share memories created among friends. “It’s like a reunion each year where generations of Hillsborough County return to be involved or just visit,” Shepherd said, pointing out that the majority return because of the unity that is supported within the agriculture community. What is possibly the most sentimental part of agriculture’s role in Plant City is the legacy. The soil that this generation works is the same soil of decades past. Camaraderie, education, charity, and community are the factors that make agriculture more than a career to pursue. It is the driving force of so many aspects in our lives. The Swine show will be held on Feb. 28 and will begin at 7:00 p.m. Sales for the show will be on March 1 at 7:00 p.m. and both events will be held in the Charlie Grimes Family Agricultural Center. For a full schedule of ag contests, visit the Florida Strawberry Festival website at www.flstrawberryfestival.com

In Plant City, it is no secret that people have great admiration for what agriculture has allowed our community to achieve. From FFA teams within public schools as well as an economic driver through its crops, agriculture has become a cornerstone of Plant City. Every year, the success of the season’s berry crops are celebrated at the Florida Strawberry Festival. The festival welcomes FFA students and 4-H members to showcase their hard work and dedication by offering more than ten agricultural contests. Brian Shepherd, chairman of the annual Mosaic Swine Show for the past six years, felt very strongly about some of the great benefits that come from these events, for both visitors and the participants. “We have hundreds of thousands of patrons that visit our shows just to see the agricultural projects,” Mr. Shepherd said, when asked about how impactful these showings are. He also added that the students involved will develop values that he believes are critical in developing a child. Responsibility, dedication, character, and financial experience are all things that contestants get a taste for, alongside opportunities to introduce agriculture and food resources to the general public. One of the most beneficial factors that come from the festival’s agriculture contests are that nothing goes to waste. The students get experience in the show ring and frequently use their winnings to fund future projects or

In the 2018 Mosaic Swine Show, Tytan Gill, a member of Alafia Kids 4H, exhibited the grand champion swine. Reserve grand champion was awarded to Chase Braglin, a member of the Farm Fresh Clovers 4H.

Florida Strawberry Festival

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82 Florida Strawberry Festival

Mark Harrell

FSGA President talks childhood, farming and his success By Cierra Craft

For three generations, the surname Harrell has been synonymous with producing Florida strawberries in Eastern Hillsborough County. Today, farmer Mark Harrell continues the legacy as not only a grower, but he also serves on the Board of Directors at the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, has earned the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Workhouse Award and was recently named the 2018 FSGA Hall of Fame recipient. Harrell shares a love for Florida strawberries with his wife of 42 years, Sue, who serves as the Marketing Director of the FSGA. When the Harrells are not busy in the field or with the association, they spend time with their son Christopher and daughter-in-law Candace, along with their granddaughter Stevie.

Farmer Mark Harrell, shares his passion as a strawberry grower with his granddaughter Stevie, who gets to pick the first berry on the farm each season.

Florida Strawberry Festival

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of the people who are in the Hall of Fame have passed away, so I hope that isn’t a sign of what’s to come! It’s an honor and I know most of the guys who have been given the award and it’s gracious and I’m thankful to be among their ranks. I have also won the association’s Workhorse Award, which is tied to being available to help the with the festival display and being there for the ag seminar by helping take out the trash, setting up tables, etc. Sue has given several tours out on the farm from academic people and people on the restaurant side of things. I have done some work with the university [University of Florida] with a researcher down there on his work on the nematodes and giving him places on the farm where he could do his experiments.

Part of Mark’s work is also educating others, including a group of food bloggers, about the Florida Strawberry industry.

You descend from a long line of growers. Has your family always farmed strawberries in Eastern Hillsborough County? My great-great grandfather was a farmer, but I am not quite sure if he grew strawberries. I know my grandfather, my father and I did. My family has pretty much always farmered in the Turkey Creek, Dover and Plant City area. I know my dad was a young teen and he went to a strawberry school, so he would take a break from school to pick the crop. Most of the farms back then were family farms and five acres was a pretty good size. The kids took care of the farm instead of hired labor. I imagine dad was between Junior High and High School years and going to strawberry school…. So, that may have been the mid 1940s. Share a bit about your decision to become a grower My dad worked with another fella in the 1970s and I joined him in 1975 and we started farming together. I worked in farm construction with strawberries and oranges, leveling the ground and setting the drainage. I traveled everywhere from South Georgia to Lake Okeechobee. I got tired of traveling and came back to Dover. I hooked up with Marvin Brown to come on board. I was a partner in Strawberry Station for 23 and a half years, before the farm was sold three years ago. I decided to stay on and manage it. I guess I just got hooked into it and never left; it gets in your blood and you don’t leave it. What are the rewards and challenges of being a strawberry grower? If you’re a outdoorsy person, you’re lucky to have that everyday. You’re not held to a rigorous schedule. You’re your own boss and you set your own schedule, you’re not set to a 9 to 5 schedule. It’s nice that my granddaughter can come out PAGE

84 Florida Strawberry Festival

and visit and we can ride around on the tractor or she likes to pick berries. It’s nice to have her out and take a break. The freedom of it all. Challenged with weather, labor force and many other things. Some are enjoyable, some are not. At one point, more lucrative. Right now, not quite as lucrative, but it turns into a lifestyle. You kind of just love it or hate it. … time in between crops allow you to unwind. Share a bit about your involvement in the Florida Strawberry Growers Association I have served on the Board for 20 or so years, off and on. My partner was active on the board and I got involved to the association, so it kind of stuck. We cycle a year on, then you take a year off and then you’re allowed to be voted back on. I am always involved with projects like a few of us put together the display at the Strawberry Festival. Mike Lott is kind of the driving force behind it, and I am happy to be apart of it. Each year the association hosts an ag seminar. I help get the facility ready by setting up tables and such. Sue is involved in marketing, so I will help her by making sure she has berries for anything she needs. I guess if there is something that needs to be done, they call us and Mike and a few other fellas. This is my first year as President of FSGA. They have asked me for a few years and I try to bow out of it, but this year, they talked me into it. You were recently presented the FSGA Strawberry Growers Hall of Fame Award. What does this award mean to you? What other awards have you received for your work in agriculture? The Hall of Fame award means I am an old guy! I am appreciative that they considered me. I made a joke when they presented the award, that most

What is something you wish the public knew about the strawberry industry? This is not only with strawberries, but I think the general population doesn’t know what goes into getting a product from the farm to the grocery store. Especially younger folks who are not aware of where it came from or how it was grown… people think it’s easier than it really is. It can be demanding, working 7 days per week, daylight to dark and they see big pieces of land with a big tractor and they think ‘those guys are rich’ but that’s not always the case. Those are just the tools of the trade. I think ppl don’t see farming much anymore. I think they’re surprised. We used to have a U-Pick and people were surprised by how many plants are on the farm and how many berries each plant produces. I would like to see the general public have a better idea of the process of getting produce from the farm to the market, I think they’d have a better appreciation. Outside of Plant City, people aren’t aware that strawberries are available from November to April. They see Festival and think ‘berries are here,’ and buy them in March, when they were available months ago. People are moving away from the farm and it’s not common to see fields of berries growing outside of this area... Every time you go to a new area, there are totally different practices of growing things. In my travels it was eye opening to see ways things are grown. You and your wife share a love for Florida strawberries. How has this understanding impacted your marriage? We have an understanding of what each other are doing. She understands if I don’t come home until dark and she’s out spreading the gospel of berries... her passion of trying to educate and show people is amazing. I don’t think you’ll find anyone in the country more passionate about strawberries.

Florida Strawberry Festival

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Rhett Rollyson at Fearnow Insurance BY CIERRA CRAFT

ollowing in his father’s footsteps, Rhett Rollyson began his insurance career at his father’s business, V & R Insurance. Rollyson says the choice to pursue a career in insurance was easy. “It was really a natural fit after watching him do it for so long,” said Rollyson. “My dad epitomizes what it means to help others and put service first, so I thought it would be rewarding to follow his footsteps.” Then in March 2010, Rollyson formed a relationship with Fearnow Insurance, where he became a Property and Casualty agent. Housed within the V&R office at 1507 S. Alexander St, Suite 101, Rollyson is committed to helping customers find the coverage for their home and automobiles that best fits their needs and budget. He says customers can call him day or night when they’re in need and reassures his clients that honesty,

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integrity and hardwork are at the core of his work. “I help people feel comfortable, that if anything happens, I’ve got their back,” said Rollyson. “I am an advocate for clients to understanding their insurance needs.” A dedication to service is what sets Fearnow Insurance apart. As an independent agent, Rollyson is able to compare rates of over 20 companies to find the one that best fits his client’s needs. From AutoOwners Insurance to Tower Hill Insurance, Fearnow ensures each company meets their standard. A graduate of the University of Florida, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications, Rollyson says his dream was to work in Sports Broadcasting. As a self-proclaimed “tennis junkie” and a huge sports fan, Rollyson was a tennis coach upon graduation from UF. Then, he worked for

Prince as National Promotional Representative. Rollyson says his experience in communications has enriched his experience in insurance. “A lot of those communications skills come in handy with insurance,” said Rollyson. Additionally, Rollyson’s passion for helping the community goes beyond his clients. He is an Associate Director of the Florida Strawberry Festival and has served on the board of the YMCA for seven years. He also serves on the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation’s board of directors. Rollyson is a member of First Baptist Church of Plant City and the Sunday School teacher of the 10th grade boys group. His passion for sports is still at the center of everything he does, as a board

member of Plant City Little League, a volunteer Assistant Coach at USF and Rollyson is a competitive tennis player as well.

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REAL ESTATE

Should Your Spouse Be On Your Mortgage? BY NATE DAVIS, FLORIDA MORTAGE FIRM

t may be in a married couple’s best interest to get a loan to buy a house in only one of the spouse’s names, even if there are no credit hurdles. Take this example: John and Jane get a loan in both of their names (not the deed to the house, which is different from the note). Years later, they want to purchase an investment or vacation home. If only Jane had been on the loan, then John could have applied for a different loan to buy a vacation home on his own without any of the existing mortgage debt counting against him. But since he is on the

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note to repay, that debt counts against both Jane and John. Since the existing mortgage loan is counting against each other’s income, it may be prohibiting or reducing their capacity to borrow money for a vacation home, or any other future purchase for that matter. Some people don’t like this idea. They want to be on the loan since they will help pay for it. Just know this: In Florida, when married people purchase a primary residence, they will typically be listed on the title to house as a “married man/woman.” This means that even if one spouse is not on the loan, he

or she will still have an ownership interest in the property. Don’t mistakenly think that if Jane is not on the loan, she is giving up any ownership to the home. In

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REAL ESTATE

Walden Lake Review BY NATALIE SWEET

he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month at the Walden Lake Community Association office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meetings are scheduled for February 18th and March 18th at 7:00 PM. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents. Watch the announcement boards at all entrances for dates and times for special meetings and events. During the month of January, there were 6 sales in Walden Lake and 2 sales in Walden Lake East with an average sale price of $245,231. The average days on the market were 66 days. The average price per square foot of these 8 sales is $118.

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The January sales are as follows:

There are currently 24 active listings for sale in Walden Lake and Walden Lake East with an average list price of $316,900 and an average of 75 days on the market. The average price per square foot for these 24 listings is $127. There are 18 properties Pending Contract with an average list price of $248,183 and average of 65 days on the market. The average price per square foot of these 18 listings is $122. The market continues to remain strong for homes that are priced well and in very good condition even with the inventory ticking up. If you have any question about these MLS statistics, please feel free to contact me at 813-7589586 or nsweet@kw.com. In January, the HOA dropped

Address

Sales Price

Living Area

Pool

Garage

103 Capri Court

$169,000

1581

Community

2 Car

707 Sandalwood Drive

$201,100

1810

2 Car

2817 Spring Meadow Drive

$224,000

1808

2 Car

1705 Sagebrush Road

$235,000

1971

Yes

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2300

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3003 Pine Club Drive

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2475

Yes

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3443 Silver Meadow Way

$290,000

2322

Yes

2 Car

3206 Alcott Avenue

$313,000

2347

Yes

3 Car

the lawsuit against the golf course property. The bank owned property is on the market and there may be potential buyers. If you have not already paid the first payment of your 2019 HOA Dues, you are late! The sooner you pay your dues, the less it will cost you.

Our HOA office on Griffin Boulevard is a drop off center for non-perishable items to be donated to The United Food Bank. Any donations are welcome! Feel free to contact me about this article via email me at NSweet@KW.com or 813-7589586.

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RISING STAR PCHS BOYS GOLF TEAM CAPTAIN peyton

martin By Taryn Storter Peyton Martin is the captain of the Plant City High School Golf Team. Peyton has achieved much throughout his high school career and looks forward to continuing that success. Peyton has played golf since he was five years old but became serious about the sport at the end of his seventh-grade year. He made the Varsity Golf team his freshman year of high school and has had four exceptional seasons. This school year, as captain, Peyton led his team to an undefeated season. “I was blessed to play on a team with an awesome group of guys…” said Peyton. “ I couldn’t have asked for a better group of teammates to finish out my high school career with.” Peyton was recently awarded the Alvin A. Casey Award for Most Valuable Senior Golfer of the Year for Hillsborough County. The ceremony was held at the Hillsborough County School Board office in Tampa. Peyton is enrolled in Honors courses and at the time of publications, has a 5.45 grade point average. Peyton said, “Three guys from the team and I were told that we were going to receive the highest GPA award, but when they announced the award and it wasn’t our team, we were pretty confused. The award after that was the Most Valuable Senior Golfer Award and when they started describing the player, I realized that they were describing me. It was an awesome experience, being chosen for such a prestigious award.” Outside of his academics and golfing, Peyton enjoys hunting and fishing. “It was always hard dividing up my time between golf, hunting, and fishing,” said Peyton. Peyton had amazing advice for younger athletes, explaining “only a driven athlete is a successful one. Hours of practice and discipline will pay off more than having a bit of talent. Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” When asked where he finds his inspiration, Peyton answered, “I find my inspiration from my family and friends, but more specifically my Dad and Grandpa. They were always pushing me to do my best and kept me focused when times got hard. My Mom was also one of my biggest supporters and a great encourager. I also give credit to God for blessing me with the ability to play.” Peyton reflected on the season, stating, “Our team record this year was 10-0. We lost the district tournament by 1 stroke. I was blessed to play on a team with an awesome group of guys: Nick Strickler, Cade Shissler, Trevor Sizemore, William McCloud, Rickey Nelson, Cole Shuff, Tre Ragan, Aiden Keel, Colton Miller and Ty Gould. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of teammates to finish out my high school career with.” As for the future, Peyton plans on attending a Florida college to pursue a degree in business. Keep your eyes on Peyton Martin, Plant City! He has a bright future ahead of him! PAGE

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SPORTS

Sports Team of the Month Durant Cheer Team BY TARYN STORTER

he Durant Cheer Team is making some serious noise in the world of cheerleading. Throughout the competition cheer season, they have had great success in their respective division. With the leadership of Coach Nikki Hand, the team is ready to take on the season ahead. The cheerleading team is led by Hand and Assistant Coaches Olivia Bridges and Savannah Kolonowski. Coach Hand has been coaching cheerleading for 12 years, but has been coaching the Cougars cheer team for the past five years. Coach Hand said: “This is a very young team with only two seniors, three juniors, seven freshmen, and the rest of the team are sophomores. We’ve also got a handful of girls that have never cheered before, but even so, this is one of the most talented teams Durant has had in a long time.” The Durant Cheer team is special and deserves the recognition and honors that have been awarded them. Hand said that the MVP of the team would be Macie Jordan.

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“Macie Jordan, hands down! We had a flyer get extremely sick with the flu the night before we competed to qualify for Nationals. Macie took her spot and within a matter of hours learned the entire routine, which included her flying, and she nailed the routine perfectly! She helped us earn a bid to Nationals.” The most memorable experience so far this year, according to Hand is winning the Western Conference. She expressed, “This team has been working so hard since this summer and to finally perform our best routine yet, is a feeling that myself, the other coaches, and the girls will never forget.” Team member Avery Surrency shared her experiences on the cheerleading team. Surrency said: “This team has been through so much and I’m so happy to be a part of a team that loves each other and works as hard as we do. The dedication and determination is absolutely incredible and I cannot wait to take the mat at states and nationals with this team.” The team is composed of Captains

Jessie Gonzalez and Caroline Proeschel and members Kinleigh Doiron, Samantha Pimentel, Maddy Mercer, Katie Rentz, Stephanie Estrada, Kendra Pellicer, Avery Surrency, Tehya Lujan, Shelby Allen, Amaya Toro-Ezell, Ava Reuter, Taylor Van Wagner, Ava Starck, Tabatha

Spinks, Marina Hawkins, Macie Jordan, Grace Gainer, Tracy Hodge and Mya Hubbard. Good luck to the Durant Cheer Team as they take on State and National competitions later this season!

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EXTRA

Angie Klein BY HEATHER DAVIS

lant City has a deep rooted heritage when it comes to it’s strawberries. This is the month we celebrate that local legacy, when all over town strawberries appear everywhere. Local artist, Angie Klein, has been busy at work making that “strawberry” magic come alive for the enjoyment of her hometown. Much of Angie’s strawberry art comes from her upbringing in Plant City and all of the exciting memories she has from strawberry season. Her paintings depict scenes, memories, and feelings from those special times. For the past twenty years, Angie has been a muralist, transforming walls and homes with her talent. She has recently focused all of that creative drive into painting series on canvas, such as her strawberries and a spiritual series which draws upon her deep rooted beliefs and faith. You can find Angie’s strawberry renderings not only on canvas, but also on wine glasses, ornaments, signs, t-shirts, pillows and coffee mugs. Often along with her fanciful strawberries, Angie will sneak in a bee or two adding that extra playful quality. This year is shaping up to be extremely busy for Angie as she will be participating as a vendor in this month’s Florida Strawberry Festival. Surprisingly she is one of the few, if not only, artists who will be displaying and selling strawberry themed artwork. Angie’s art will also be on display for the month of February at the Bruton Memorial Library. Not to be overlooked is her series, “Angels Among Us”. Angie has a deep love and passion in reaching out a helping hand to the homeless population. In her artwork, she paints those she has made connections with by rendering them in the most loving and humane way. Seeing these series of paintings begs of us to ask the question - do we really see the Angels among us, those who are often overlooked and not seen for the beautiful humans they are? The artwork of Angie Klein is a deep reflection of the beautiful person she is inside and out. To view more of her artwork you can visit her Facebook or Instagram page @AngieKleinArt or her website @www.angiekleinart.com.

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GT Grandstands is Proud to Partner with the Florida Strawberry Festival

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EXTRA

Wanda’s

Words of Wisdom BY WANDA “LEWIS” ANDERSON

t is all things Strawberry and we just happen to live in the heart of it all. We as Plant City “folk” are truly blessed with wonderful weather and an abundance of those yummy strawberries. Let’s look at some ways to use them: Homemade Strawberry Mask, it’s easy and it will love the way it makes your skin feel. Simply take 8-9 fresh strawberries and mash them up in a bowl until smooth, you can use a fork. Now, add 3 tablespoons of honey and mix well. Using clean hands or a sanitized brush, gently apply the mixture all over your face, avoiding the eye area. Lie down and leave the mask on for 10 to 15 minutes. Wash it away with warm water, pat your face dry and follow up with your favorite toner and moisturizer. This Strawberry Face Scrub smells great and is gentle on the skin. Simply mash a few strawberries with a teaspoon of brown or white sugar. You can also add in some organic honey if you wish. Apply gently to your face avoiding the eye area and rinse after a few minutes. The strawberry will nourish, the sugar will scrub, and the honey will soothe your skin.

Strawberry-infused ice water, in a pitcher, add water, ice, and mint leaves. You can add whole or sliced strawberries and allow the water to sit overnight. The end result is infused water that is so tasty and full of vitamins and minerals. This is a great idea to try for showers and parties as well. This next tip the kids will love! Make frozen strawberry treats simply dip strawberries in yogurt and place in the freezer until solid. Cut them in half and use to decorate desserts or just eat as a snack. This is perfect for kids to try on hot summer days. You may want to try various yogurt flavors so you have a variety. While the kids are helping, let them get crafty by making strawberry people. Just use colorful toothpicks and poke them into the fruit to create arms and legs. Frosting and small candy bits make great facial features and pull apart licorice makes great hair. You can get creative using the strawberry as the body of the person and see what you can create. Until next time relax, enjoy and be thankful…

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Who's watching whom? A woman looks at Jean Cormier's whimsical paintings.

Polk Museum of Art Affordable Day Away

The beauty of the Polk Museum of Art starts with the architecture and sculptures outside the building.

BY BARBARA ROUTEN

id you know the world’s largest museum has an affiliate in Lakeland? And admission is always free? The Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College, 800 E. Palmetto Street, is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum. Some works, such as the recently ended show The Art of Romaine Brooks, are loaned to the Polk Museum by the Smithsonian. Currently, through March 24, you can view Edgar Degas, The Private Impressionist: Works on Paper by the Artist and His Circle, part of a private collection. Many of Degas’s prints, monotypes, sculptures and drawings are included, as well as more than forty works by friends and fellow nineteenth-century artists Mary Cassatt, Paul Cézanne, JeanAuguste-Dominique Ingres and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Displays change frequently. The museum owns 2,500 pieces of contemporary, Asian, Pre-

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Columbian, African and decorative art but can show only a fraction of them at a time. This winter and spring, the museum’s own pieces are supplemented with traveling shows and the artwork of local and nationally known artists. Enjoy the witty paintings of Jean Cormier of Sebring, Charles Williams’s Sun & Light exhibit, the Harrison School for the Arts Senior Exhibition and Ancient Art of the Americas. Material World & Hungry Planet is a fascinating photographic portrayal of what the world eats, featuring 25 families from 21 countries. Each family is photographed at their home with some of their furnishings, surrounded by all the food they typically eat in a week. You’ll see striking differences and similarities, such as the proliferation of soft drinks around the globe. Comparing these pictures can be a fun, immersive and educational game for your whole family. Admission is free (donations are

welcome) at the Polk Museum of Art, which is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. It is closed Mondays. The museum has a lovely gift shop but no café; however, it shares a parking lot with the Lakeland Public Library, which houses the

Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro. If you’re in the mood, grab a steaming coffee or tea, an ice-cold craft soda, a sandwich, salad, small bite or sweet treat. For information about upcoming exhibits, visit www. polkmuseumofart.org or call (863) 688-7743.

In this scene from the Material World & Hungry Planet exhibit, a family sits behind a mat on which their week's worth of food is spread.

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