Fe Ramirez

2023 Florida Strawberry Festival Court Member

Tell our readers a little bit about yourself:

My name is Fe Ramirez, I’m born and raised in Plant City, and I’m the daughter of Celia and Antonio Ramirez. I’m a junior at Plant City High School, as well as dual enrolled at Hillsborough Community College. I’m a varsity cheerleader, play the flute in the school band, a member of the Plant City Running Club, and a member of Future Health Professionals.

Do you have prior pageant experience? How did those experiences compare to Strawberry Queen?

I started competing in pageants from a very early age, competing in the Florida Strawberry Festival’s baby contest, baby parade, Little Miss Plant City, Jr. Royalty, and Calendar Girl, but this was my very first year competing in the Queen’s pageant. Strawberry Queen came with a lot more preparation, but all the previous experiences compared to Strawberry Queen because in each pageant, girls around our community came together all wanting the opportunity to represent our town.

To what or whom do you attribute your success?

None of this would’ve been possible without God. I’ve always prayed to have this privilege to be able to serve my community and the Florida Strawberry Festival. Throughout this next year, I pray that God’s light will shine to anyone I encounter. Phillipians 4:13 , “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

I want to thank both of my parents Celia and Antonio for being my biggest supporters, without their hard work and guidance, this would not have been possible. Having grandparents and family members who picked strawberries right here in Plant City, taught me how much hard work goes into the strawberry harvest, and I’m so honored to be able to represent my family foundation as well as strawberry workers and farmers. I also must thank my coach and role model, Mrs. Brittany Carson, who not only prepared me for the pageant, but for life. I’m so thankful she mentored and guided me throughout this entire process. Mrs. Krisiti Grooms with Fancy Farms, also played a huge role, as she educated me about the strawberry harvest and industry, as well as her own family’s strawberry farm and market. Finally, the entire community’s support and willingness to give their own time to help me fulfill this lifelong dream of mine, made me realize that Plant City is truly one big family. I’m very proud to be a part of this family.

Other than attending the 11-day festival, what other event are you most looking forward to in your role on the court?

Other than the Florida Strawberry Festival of course, I’m so excited for the Grand Parade! Not only do I have the privilege of being an ambassador and representing my community and the Festival, but I get to see my entire town come together as one big family. This parade is a big tradition for Plant City, and I’m so blessed to be a part of it this year as a court member.

What is your favorite Festival food?

I look forward to the Amish donuts at the festival every year. I can remember waiting in the line 30+ minutes with my sister just to get Amish donuts. Every minute of the wait is worth it when you take the first bite of the donut and it just melts in your mouth.

2023 Florida Strawberry Festival Court Member

Tell our readers about yourself.

Hi, I am Kaleigh Salmon! I have lived in Plant City my whole life with my mom, dad, and sister. I am currently a Junior at Plant City High School and am dually enrolled at Hillsborough Community College. I am a member of Interact Club, Youth Alive, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Student Government Association and the National FFA Organization. I have grown up surrounded by agriculture but joining the Plant City Senior FFA Chapter has increased my love for the agriculture industry of our town even more. I love beach trips with friends, going out in the boat and fishing with my family, and traveling to new places.

Do you have prior pageant experience? How did those experiences compare to Strawberry Queen?

I competed in my first pageant at my school in October of 2021. I went in with no expectations and was surprised to be named Plant City High School’s 2022 Miss February. Not only did I earn a sash, but I also made 12 new friends that had such a special bond as Calendar Girls. Also, my sister competed in Strawberry Queen last year. After I saw the amazing friendships and confidence that she gained from the process I knew this year when I decided to compete for Strawberry Queen that regardless of the outcome, I would be so thankful for the memories and friendships made at rehearsals and pre-pageant activities.

To what or whom do you attribute your success?

I would not have been able to do this without the constant support from my parents. Their constant love, support, and encouragement carried me through this whole time. My coach Jessi Rae Varnum (the 2014 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen) and her mom, Katie Varnum (the 1985 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen) were my biggest support system and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. They saw the potential in me and helped me to build the confidence to do my best on that stage. I am forever thankful for them.

Other than attending the 11-day festival, what other event are you most looking forward to in your role on the court?