2017 FSF Guide by Plant City Observer

“They treat you royally, like you are family.” ~ Helen P., a patient of South Florida Baptist Hospital

Please Join Us Monday, March 6, from 12 to 3pm, for the Grand Parade Block Party off Reynolds Street.

The Care You Need, When You Need It.

Having lived in Plant City for 60 years, Helen is thankful for having a trusted hospital so close. From general surgery to yearly mammograms and the utilization of South Florida Baptist Hospital’s Outpatient Rehabilitation, Helen has always been treated like royalty. A member of the community since 1953, South Florida Baptist Hospital was built on quality, compassionate care. You’ll find a highly skilled and experienced team that works to make patients and visitors as comfortable as possible during their hospital experience. When you’re treated at South Florida Baptist Hospital, you’ll feel at home, close to home — all your health care needs are covered, without ever leaving Plant City.

Choose South Florida Baptist Hospital. Let South Florida Baptist Hospital be your partner for getting you well and keeping you well. Fill out a health profile online at SouthFloridaBaptistCare.org and you’ll be sent a complimentary travel first aid kit.

Our Specialties: n ER: Efficient medical treatment for minor or major emergencies and illnesses n Surgery: Large operating rooms, high-tech equipment and spacious recovery rooms create a pleasant environment for patients n Heart: State-of-the-art heart and vascular center offering cardiac diagnostic services and procedures

BC1700917-0217 229063

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

PlantCityObserver.com

STRAWBERRY TIME

PAUL DAVIS

Making music and making memories General Manager Paul Davis talks songs, strawberries and Southern hospitality.

PlantCityObserver.com

Make Bulk Nation your go to bulk food shopping destination

File photo

The Grand Parade is one of the major highlights of the festival every year.

all, picking more strawberries than you could ever imagine for shortcakes, milkshakes, cheesecakes, cobblers, ice cream and more. One of the highlights of this year’s event will be the release of our much-anticipated history book, The Florida Strawberry Festival: A Brief History. For more than 30 years, we have dreamed of compiling a complete history of the Florida Strawberry Festival, and our dream is finally a reality. In 208 pages, readers will see the evolution and continued tradition of our event’s rich 82 years. The book will be on sale at the festival, and we hope you will enjoy the photos and stories. For the fourth year, we have proudly partnered with Publix Super Markets’ stores to bring discounted admission tickets to families to make visits as cost effective as possible. For information on admission tickets, concert tickets, events and more, please visit us at FLStrawberryFestival.com. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and our free mobile app for updates and pictures of festival fun. You can also receive direct reminders and information by subscribing on our website to our “Berry

Latest” emails. Our staff is working diligently to ensure a successful festival, but the help and support from our community is paramount. We are truly grateful for every one of our nearly 2,500 volunteers and for the warm, welcoming spirit they show to our visitors. If you have never volunteered at the festival, I encourage you to do so. It’s not too late to sign up, and it’s much more fun than it is work! In addition, I would like to thank our board members, sponsors, committee members, community stakeholders and every one of our visitors. Each of you has a hand in making our festival such a success. At the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival, “We’re Playing Your Song!” I hope you, your family and all your friends will join us. I look forward to seeing you and hearing about the precious memories you have made and will continue to make for years to come. Paul Davis is the General Manager for the Florida Strawberry Festival.

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ince 1930, the sound of music has filled the grounds of the Florida Strawberry Festival. Beginning with local artists and high school bands, our entertainment took off in 1972 with the booking of “Queen of the West” Dale Evans. More recently, we’ve seen artists like Reba, Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts and John Legend. This year is no different with our theme of “We’re Playing Your Song!” Music has always played a special part in our festival because music makes memories — and we love creating memories. There is no better place in Plant City to make memories than at the Florida Strawberry Festival. With entertainment, livestock shows, rides and tasty treats, we cater our event to families and pride ourselves on always having a family-friendly environment. Beginning Thursday, March 2, our agriculture industry and our residents will be ready for fun as we invite almost 600,000 individuals to join in the celebration of our most prized commodity. They will come from other towns and states and some from other countries, anticipating the Southern hospitality for which we are famous. For our 82nd year, we have an exciting festival planned. We’re inviting 24 of the country’s top entertainers, bringing in over 85 of the most exciting rides and hosting hundreds of youth exhibitors in seven different livestock shows. In addition, we’ll be displaying the artwork, photographs and homemade items thousands of our local residents entered into competition, cooking up some of the tastiest treats from hundreds of food vendors and, most of

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 3

Booking online

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PlantCityObserver.com

INSIDE Paul Davis Introduction 3 StrawBuddy

Festival Schedule

Festival Exhibits

Plant City Events

Security

New Director

“Hi! I’m StrawBuddy, and I want you folks to follow me on a journey through the ages of the legenberry Florida Strawberry Festival.”

18-19

Map

Ernest Hooper Column

Oral Histories

22 24-29

Food Guide

Stingray Raffle

34-39

Queen and Court Queen’s Exhibit

Former Queen

34 8

TO ADVERTISE

44-48

Shopping Guide Smoothie

Festival History Book

Strawberry Facts

Strawberry Quiz

Now and Then

58-61

Year in Pictures

Publisher Karen Berry, kdberry@PlantCityObserver.com Interim Managing Editor Emily Topper, etopper@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editor Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer Daniel Figueroa IV, DFigueroa@PlantCityObserver.com Editorial Designer C.J. Major, cmajor@YourObserver.com Circulation/Office Manager Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com Managing Editor of In the Field Sarah Holt, sarah@inthefieldmagazine.com

Call Al Berry, Sarah Holt, Danny Crampton or Lisa Donini at (813) 704-6850

SEND US YOUR NEWS

To contact us, send your information via: Email: Emily Topper, etopper@PlantCityObserver.com. Mail: The Plant City Times & Observer, 1507 S. Alexander St. Suite 103, Plant City, FL 33566

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607 S. Alexander St. Suite 205 | Plant City, FL 33563 Phone: (813) 759-9400 | Fax: (813) 759-9403 haysandassoc@verizon.net | www.haysandassoc.net

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 5

StrawBuddy T

he Plant City Times & Observer’s 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival Guide mascot, StrawBuddy, is excited about everything Plant City and the festival have to offer — and he wants everyone to join in on the fun. In conjunction with the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and Fryed Egg Productions, the 2017 StrawBuddy Selfie Tour Challenge will kick off Friday, Feb. 25. Find StrawBuddy at locations on the festival grounds, and all across Plant City. Once StrawBuddy is spotted, take a selfie with him and post it to social media using the hashtags #PlantCityStrawBuddy, #BerryFest17 and #VisitPlantCity for a chance to win tickets to Little Big Town on Sunday, March 5, and Rascal Flatts on Sunday, March 12. The person with the most selfies at the most locations will win. Little Big Town ticket winners will be announced Friday, March 3, and Rascal Flatts ticket winners will be announced Friday, March 10. All StrawBuddy locations will be listed online at PlantCityObserver.com with contest details beginning Monday, Feb. 20.

Name: StrawBuddy Parents: StrawMama and StrawDaddy Favorite movie: “Berry Potter and the Order of the Rose” Favorite musician: “Berry” Mani-Grow Favorite book: StrawBuddy: Life and Love of a Berry Star by Farmer Bob Farvoite thing to do in Plant City: Going to the Grand Parade Favorite festival activity: Trying to see how many fried oreos my StrawBelly can handle. As a young BoyBerry, I found myself struggling with the pressures that come with being a strawberry in Plant City. Let me tell you folks — the older I got, the more I realized how special I was. I am proud to be the best berry around, and live where strawberries reign supreme! I then became a mascot for my beloved Plant City’s festival guide and figured I would be a great help for this festival that celebrates my people. Now, if I can just stop people from trying to dunk me in chocolate. StrawBuddy blurbs and bio Courtesy of James Jackson.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

PlantCityObserver.com

Spotting StrawBuddy: All Around Town TANI’S FOR DESSERT Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday Tani’s for Dessert and the adjacent storefront, Buttercream Bake Shoppe, offer handcrafted baked goods. Owners Lloyd and Tani Summers serve cupcakes, cookies, cakes, pies and more to satisfy every customer’s taste palette. RAOK BOUTIQUE Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday Call: (813) 754-7265

Emily Topper

Top: Edwena Haney with StrawBuddy. Above: Ryan Haney with StrawBuddy.

RAOK Boutique was founded in 2014 by mother-daughter duo Brigitte Hodge and Hannah Benton. The local shop sells clothes, coffee mugs, accessories and more. Some of the shop’s most popular items include shirts with sassy sayings and strawberry-themed clothes perfect for festival season.

KRAZY KUP Hours: 8:13 a.m. to 8:13 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; 10:33 a.m. to 10:33 p.m. Saturday Call: (813) 752-1220

lessons, instrument rentals, repairs and audition preparation. In the future, the shop also plans to offer dance classes out of its northeast Drane Street location.

Known for its live music and java, Krazy Kup is many a local’s favorite place to stop for coffee. From its Hawaii-inspired shave ice truck to live music from local Christian singers and bands, the shop is a destination for caffeine addicts of all ages. In addition to a cup of joe, customers can also enjoy baked goods, salads and wraps and other flavored drinks.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday Call: (813) 704-6850

DARK HORSE MUSIC STORE Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday Call: (813) 754-5269 Plant City’s downtown music shop began as a way for owner Michael Wilson to earn gas money as a 16-year-old high school student. Seven years later, Wilson and his team offer

Partnered with In the Field Magazine and the Tampa Bay Times, the Plant City Times & Observer is Plant City’s only hyperlocal weekly newspaper. Founded on July 4, 2012, the Observer is locally owned and operated by Plant City residents and by the Sarasota-based Observer Media Group. Published every Friday, the paper features news, features, sports, photo events and more from around the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World.

STRAWBUDDY LOCATIONS StrawBuddy locations include, but are not limited to: n RAOK Boutique, 2804 James L. Redman Parkway, Suite 103 n Krazy Kup: 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. n Plant City Times & Observer/In the Field Magazine, 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103 n Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, 102 N. Palmer St. n Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St. and at the festival grounds n Dark Horse Music Store, 108 N. E. Drane St. n Tani’s for Dessert, 2804 James L. Redman Parkway

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 7

FESTIVAL EVENTS SCHEDULE GATES OPEN AT 10 A.M. DAILY.

THURSDAY, MARCH 2 Florida Blue Senior Citizens Day and O’Reilly Auto Parts Ride-A-Thon Patrons 60 years of age or older get $2 off the gate admission of $10 as part of Florida Blue Senior Citizens Day. From noon to 11 p.m., a wristband purchased at the Midway for $20 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides. Present voucher from participating O’Reilly Auto Parts stores at Midway to receive $3 off $20 wristband and ride all day for only $17. n10:30 a.m. Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra, Wish Farms Soundstage n11:45 a.m. Senior Citizens Drawing, Wish Farms Soundstage n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, Belmont Festival of Magic Stage n6 p.m. Will Erickson and The Wreckage, Publix Showcase Tent

FRIDAY, MARCH 3 Publix Feeding Florida Day and Moonlight Magic Night Publix Feeding Florida Day will take place from noon to 10 p.m. Present any Publix brand nonperishable item at the entry gate and receive $5 off the regular price of the $20 Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. In the evening, ride most mechanical rides for one price of $25 per person. All patrons entering the Midway will be required to purchase a $25 wristband from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. All patrons are subject to a search. n10 a.m. to 6 p.m. World Record Strawberry Smoothie by Cabot Creamery, Inside Gate 1 n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Throwdown, Belmont Festival of Magic Stage n6 p.m. Soul Circus Cowboys, Publix Showcase Tent n10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Moonlight Magic, Midway

File photo

Rides on the Midway run from noon to 11 p.m.

“So many events, so berry little time!”

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

SATURDAY, MARCH 4 Free Kids Day, Youth Parade Day and Super Saturday Wristband Day Kids through high school age are admitted for free as part of Free Kids Day. As part of Super Saturday Wristband Day, a wristband purchased at the Midway for $30 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. The 44th Annual Strawberry Youth Parade, led by Grand Marshal Ashlyn Yarbrough, will begin at 11 a.m. n11 a.m. 44th Annual Strawberry Youth Parade, State Farmer’s Market n2 p.m. Youth Strawberry Stemming Contest, Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, Belmont Festival of Magic Stage n6 p.m. First Baptist Church of Plant City Modern Worship Team, Publix Showcase Tent n7:30 p.m. Gospel Night featuring Pastor Calvin “Pee Wee” Callins, Publix Showcase Tent

SUNDAY, MARCH 5

Coca-Cola Family Day Present any Coca-Cola brand can or plastic bottle product at entry gate to receive a voucher for $5 off the $25 wristband, and ride most mechanical rides from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. for $20. Can or bottle is not valid for gate admission. n9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Registration for Baby Contest, Admin. Office n10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Baby Contest, Decorated Diaper Contest, Baby Features Contest and Diaper Derby, Publix Showcase Tent n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown n6 p.m. HOLA Plant City!, Publix Showcase Tent

MONDAY, MARCH 6

Grand Parade Day and Ride-A-Thon Day The Ride-A-Thon will take place from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $20 will

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entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides. The Grand Parade will begin at 1 p.m. in Historic Downtown, and will pass by the Florida Strawberry Festival at 2 p.m. n1 p.m. Grand Parade begins, Historic Downtown Plant City n2 p.m. Grand Parade passes the Florida Strawberry Festival, Reynolds Street n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, Belmont Festival of Magic Stage n5 p.m. Strawberry Spaghetti Eating Contest, Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent n6 p.m. Next Radical Generation (NRG), Publix Showcase Tent

TUESDAY, MARCH 7

TWOSDAY and Ride-A-Thon Day From noon to 11 p.m., it’s guests’ choice. Ride any single ride for $2, or ride most mechanical rides all day with a $20 wristband purchased at the Midway. n2 p.m. Adult Strawberry Stemming Contest, Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, Belmont Festival of Magic Stage n6 p.m. Ben Allen Band, Publix Showcase Tent

Entertainment Test n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown n6 p.m. 33 Years, Publix Showcase Tent n7:15 p.m. Honor American Heroes, Wish Farms Soundstage

THURSDAY, MARCH 9

Florida Blue Senior Citizens Day and O’Reilly Auto Parts Ride-A-Thon Day Patrons 60 years of age or older get $2 off the gate admission of $10 as part of Florida Blue Senior Citizens Day. From noon to 11 p.m., a wristband purchased at the Midway for $20 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides. Present voucher from participating O’Reilly Auto Parts stores at Midway to receive $3 off $20 wristband and ride all day for $17. n10:30 a.m. to noon Cab Calloway Orchestra, Wish Farms Soundstage n11:45 a.m. Senior Citizens Drawing, Wish Farms Soundstage n11:45 a.m. Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest, Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, Belmont Festival of Magic Stage n6 p.m. J. Klein Band, Publix Showcase Tent

FRIDAY, MARCH 10

American Heroes Day and Ride-A-Thon Day From noon to 11 p.m., a wristband purchased at the Midway for $20 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides. All active, reserve, retired military, veterans, first responders and law enforcement officers are admitted free with valid ID.

Tampa Bay Times Day on the Midway and Moonlight Magic Night From noon to 10 p.m., receive $5 off discount with a coupon from the Tampa Bay Times for the $20 Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. During Moonlight Magic from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., ride most mechanial rides for one price of $25 per person. All patrons entering the Midway will be required to purchase a $25 wristband. All patrons are subject to a search.

n1 p.m. Super Dog Mega Corndog Eating Contest, Stingray Chevrolet

n1 p.m. Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie Eating Contest, Stingray Chevrolet

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8

Entertainment Tent n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, Belmont Festival of Magic Stage n6 p.m. Neon Truckers, Publix Showcase Tent n10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Moonlight Magic, Midway

HEADLINERS WISH FARMS SOUNDSTAGE

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

Farm Worker Appreciation Day and Super Saturday Wristband Day Super Saturday will take place from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $30 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides. n10:15 a.m. Baby Parade, Morrow Steel Free Grandstand n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, Belmont Festival of Magic Stage n6 p.m. Jack Michael Band, Publix Showcase Tent

Courtesy Photo

Maddie and Tae perform at 3:30 p.m. Sat., March 11.

SUNDAY, MARCH 12

Coca-Cola Family Day Present any Coca-Cola brand can or plastic bottle product at entry gate to receive a voucher for $5 off the $25 wristband, and ride most mechanical rides from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. for $20. Can or bottle is not valid for gate admission. n1 p.m. Kitchen Craft Cookware Drawing, Neighborhood Village n2 p.m. Pulaski Vacation Giveaway, TECO Expo Hall n2:30 p.m. Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown, Belmont Festival of Magic Stage n5 p.m. Stingray Chevrolet Corvette Drawing, East Ind. n6 p.m. HOLA Plant City!, Publix Showcase Tent

THURSDAY, MARCH 2

TUESDAY, MARCH 7

Drifters, Platters & Cornell Gunter’s Coasters, 3:30 pm. King & Country, 7:30 p.m.

Brenda Lee, 3:30 p.m. NEEDTOBREATHE, 7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, MARCH 3

Tracy Byrd, 3:30 p.m. Scotty McCreery, 7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8

Willie Nelson and Family, 3:30 p.m. Kip Moore, 7:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, MARCH 9

SATURDAY, MARCH 4

The Oak Ridge Boys, 3:30 p.m. The Blues Brothers, 7:30 p.m.

Kane Brown, 3:30 p.m. Three Doors Down, 7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, MARCH 10

SUNDAY, MARCH 5 Clare Bowen/Charles Esten, 3:30 p.m. Little Big Town, 7:30 p.m.

Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers, 3:30 p.m. Elle King, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, MARCH 11 Maddie and Tae, 3:30 p.m. Patti LaBelle, 7:30 p.m.

MONDAY, MARCH 6 The Bellamy Brothers, 3:30 p.m. Jennifer Nettles, 7:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, MARCH 12 Joe Nichols, 3:30 p.m. Rascal Flatts “Rhythm & Roots” Tour, 7:30 p.m.

CROSSROADS

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 9

AG SHOW SCHEDULE THURSDAY, MARCH 2

MOSAIC YOUTH SWINE SHOW Begins at 7 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

“After I pig out at the food stands, you can bet I will make it to every exhibit, even if it’s only by the ‘hare’ of my chinny-chinchin! After all is said and done, I’ll head home and watch my favorite scary movie: Poultry-geist.”

YOUTH PLANT SHOW 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion MOSAIC POULTRY & RABBIT SHOWS 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion

FRIDAY, MARCH 3

YOUTH PLANT SHOW 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion MOSAIC POULTRY & RABBIT SHOWS 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion MOSAIC YOUTH SWINE SALE Begins at 7 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena DAIRY CONTESTANT JUDGING CONTEST Begins at 1 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

SATURDAY, MARCH 4 YOUTH PLANT SHOW 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion

MOSAIC POULTRY & RABBIT SHOWS 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion DAIRY SHOW SHOWMANSHIP Begins at 11 a.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena DAIRY SHOW Begins at 1 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

SUNDAY, MARCH 5

ADULT DAIRY SHOWMANSHIP Begins at 11 a.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena PEE WEE DAIRY SHOWMANSHIP Begins at 11 a.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena DAIRY COSTUME BALL Begins at 12:30 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

File photo

YOUTH ORNAMENTAL PLANT SALE Begins at 2 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

MOSAIC POULTRY & RABBIT SHOWS 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion

YOUTH PLANT SHOW 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

MOSAIC POULTRY & RABBIT SHOWS 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion

MOSAIC YOUTH STEER SALE Begins at 7 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

MOSAIC POULTRY & RABBIT SHOWS 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion

MONDAY, MARCH 6

LAMB SHOWMANSHIP & SHOW Begins at 5 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena MOSAIC POULTRY & RABBIT SHOWS 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion

TUESDAY, MARCH 7

LAMB JUMPING CONTEST Begins at 3 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena LAMB COSTUME CONTEST Begins at 7 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

MOSAIC YOUTH STEER SHOW Begins at 6 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

THURSDAY, MARCH 9

MOSAIC YOUTH STEER SHOWMANSHIP Begins at 7 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena MOSAIC POULTRY & RABBIT SHOWS 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion

FRIDAY, MARCH 10

BEEF BREED SHOWMANSHIP Begins at 6 p.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

LIVESTOCK JUDGING CONTEST Begins at 10 a.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

MOSAIC POULTRY & RABBIT SHOWS 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion

SUNDAY, MARCH 12

YOUTH BEEF BREED SHOW Begins at 11 a.m. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena MOSAIC POULTRY & RABBIT SHOWS 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swindle Family Pavilion

DAILY EXHIBITS CHARLIE GRIMES FAMILY AGRICULTURAL CENTER Livestock Shows, Sales & Contests ASTIN FARMS PAVILION nSwine Exhibit: March 2 - March 4 nDairy Exhibit: March 2 - March 5 nSteer Exhibit: March 8 - March 11 SWINDLE FAMILY PAVILION nMosaic Poultry & Rabbit Shows: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. nBeef Breed Exhibit: March 10 - March 12 nYouth Plant Show Exhibit: March 2 - March 5 nLamb Show Exhibit: March 6 - March 8 NEIGHBORHOOD VILLAGE nNeighborhood Village: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sponsored by: Kitchen Craft nNeighborhood Village Youth: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. nGarden Club Horticulture Show: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. nStrawberry Queen Exhibit: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ROY & HELEN PARKE BUILDING nShoebox Float Display: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sponsored by: Shoemeleons MILTON E. HULL ARMORY BUILDING nEast Hillsborough Art Guild Art Show: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sponsored by: Good Health Saunas nPhotography Contest: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sponsored by: Spivey Concessions STRAWBERRY PRODUCTION EXHIBIT nDemonstration of Strawberry Production: South of the Milton E. Hull Armory Building. Sponsored By: Florida Strawberry Growers Association PIONEER VILLAGE nDemonstration of Pioneer Skills: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sponsored by: Florida’s Best

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Can’t get enough of the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World? Come back to visit Plant City during these popular events throughout the year.

SATURDAY, MARCH 18

STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW Held on the third Saturday of every month, the Strawberry Classic Car Show has been a tradition in Plant City for 20 years. Attendees can see cars and trucks from the 1990s and older models at the Union Station Depot, 102 N. Palmer St. The event is free to the public.

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PLANT CITY MAIN STREET FOOD TRUCK RALLY Held from 5 to 9 p.m. on the last Friday of every month, the Plant City Main Street Food Truck Rallies are held in conjunction with Plant City Main Street and the Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally. Monthly, attendees can enjoy live music and a variety of food from different trucks that gather on North Palmer Street in Historic Downtown Plant City.

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

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FRIDAY, MARCH 31

RAILFEST 2017 Held annually, this year’s Railfest will take place on Saturday, April 8, 2017. The event celebrates the Robert W. Willaford Railroad

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

Museum in Historic Downtown Plant City, 102 N. Palmer St. . Kids and attendees can enjoy bounce houses, free giveaways, miniature locomotives, music and more.

SATURDAY, MAY 6; SATURDAY, OCT. 7 AND SATURDAY, DEC. 2

PLANT CITY BIKE FEST Held four times per year, the Plant City Bike Fest is the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World’s biggest event for motorcycle aficionados. The free event on North Palmer Street features classic, upgraded and restored bikes, and awards are given out in various categories.

SATURDAY, NOV. 11

ANNUAL PIONEER HERITAGE DAY An event that celebrates the heritage of Plant City, the Annual Pioneer Heritage Day takes guests back in time. The event features crafts, live music, time-period clothing and more as part of paying homage to Plant City’s history. The event is organized by the East Hillsborough Historical Society.

NOV. 17 AND NOV. 18

SUNCOAST CREDIT UNION PLANT CITY PIG JAM One of the biggest events in town, the Suncoast Credit Union

WANT MORE? For more Plant City events, check back throughout the year to find out the exact dates for some of our town’s most popular activities: October: Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail, Fox Squirrel Corn Maze, Hillsborough County Fair November: United Food Bank of Plant City Empty Bowls Fundraiser December: Christmas Lane February: Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Florida State Fair April: Relay for Life May: Peach Festival at Keel and Curley Winery July: Plant City Fourth of July Celebration

Plant City Pig Jam is a long-anticipated weekend for fans of all things BBQ. Professional and amateur teams compete at the Randy Larson FourPlex for cash prizes in ribs, pork, brisket and chicken categories. Proceeds from the event benefit the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s scholarship fund, and other related programs. PlantCityObserver.com

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 13

SAFE AND

SOUND In 2016, over 560,000 people attended the Florida Strawberry Festival. With added security measures this year, General Manager Paul Davis and Security Manager Tim Lovett maintain safety as a top priority. EMILY TOPPER MANAGING EDITOR

File photos

Security Manager Tim Lovett and General Manager Paul Davis have increased safety precautions for 2017.

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n June 12, 2016, 49 people were killed in a shooting at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando. Just over one month later on July 14, 2016, a cargo truck was deliberately driven into the crowds celebrating Bastille Day in Nice, France, killing 86 and wounding over 50 others. And on Jan. 6, 2017, a gunman

opened fire at the Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport, killing five. For Florida Strawberry Festival General Manager Paul Davis and Security Manager Tim Lovett, both former deputies with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the safety of the hundreds of thousands of guests that come to Plant City’s 11-day festival every year is a top priority — one they’ll maintain in a world where the unimaginable can become a

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reality in the blink of an eye. “Everything changed after 9-11,” Davis said. “But it just keeps changing. As time progresses, you have to stay ahead of the curve.” With added safety measures this year that include pre-registering vehicles on the grounds and promoting pedestrian safety, the festival’s security leaders are ensuring that guests are well protected.

said. “I’m very proud of Tim for thinking of it.” To prevent vehicles from driving into the festival without approval, blockades will be placed around the festival’s entrances. Gates will be equipped with security cameras. “This has kind of become the norm, and people expect it,” Davis said. “That’s a good thing. People aren’t so offended by cameras or security at the gates. Last year, we found that people appreciated it. We tell our employees, ‘If you see something, say something.’ It doesn’t hurt.” Lovett agreed. “Last year I expected more complaints, but we really didn’t receive any,” he said. “People know what’s happening in society these days, and they want to feel safe. I didn’t get called over for anyone who refused to let their bags be checked. All in all, we had a great festival last year.” “We prepare for the worst, hope for the best and pray,” Davis said.

SAFETY FIRST

“We tell our employees, ‘if you see something, say something.’ it doesn’t hurt.” — Paul Davis, Florida Strawberry Festival General Manager

But it wasn’t just installing the measure — it was ensuring that the technique was done properly. Prior to the start of the festival, security officers had to take a safety class to learn proper “wanding” techniques with an estimated cost of $75,000. “Tim was basically hired to head our security,” Davis said. “We’ve updated it substantially. We have security around the perimeter, including mounted and bike officers. You can’t be too secure these days. Our most important weapon is that our customers here are like family. They notice things and they are quick to tell us when they see something wrong. We had no complaints about searches last year because guests want to be safe, too.” In 2017, Lovett and Davis will continue to take measures to PlantCityObserver.com

ensure that the festival is a fun, safe atmosphere for all who attend. Annually, the festival spends about $500,000 on security, and partners with both the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Plant City Police Department. “The way things are today, we want people to feel safe coming here,” Lovett said. The latest security precaution was Lovett’s idea. This year, all vehicles that enter the grounds of the festival will be required to have a sticker on them with an identification number and pre-registered information about the driver. “If it doesn’t have one, it will be removed from the grounds,” Lovett said. To keep guests safe, vehicles won’t be allowed inside the grounds during the festival’s operating hours and will have restricted access during closed hours. Largely, the vehicles that come on the grounds after festival hours are for festival vendors who need to work on their booths and restock supplies. Emergency vehicles will be the only ones allowed inside the grounds during festival hours. “The sticker can’t be reused,” Davis said. “If you take it off, it will show as void. When we’re closed, there’s usually between 60 to 70 cars that stock and fix stuff.” Like vendors, musicians also will be given temporary stickers to use. Musicians will tell security about their vehicles ahead of time, so that the festival can anticipate their arrival. “We will advance that with every act coming in,” Davis said. “After the 2016 festival ... Tim saw the weaknesses of vehicles driving in.”

During last year’s festival, vehicles were required to be off the grounds before the festival opened. Lovett often had to track down drivers who kept their vehicles on the grounds too close to opening hours. That, paired with recent attacks in the United States and across the globe, led him to come up with the sticker idea. “As an added bonus, we’ll also know that all drivers have a valid license and insurance,” Davis

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Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.

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There were over 560,000 attendees of the 2016 Florida Strawberry Festival. Before any of them entered the festival’s gates, they were required to have their bags searched and be checked with a security wand at the festival’s entrance. The added safety measure was new last year, after the festival brought on Lovett, a Plant City native, as security manager. He encouraged the use of wands and bag checks at the festival from his time overseeing courthouse security in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World.

“Now let me tell you the real rules for safety.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 15

Steers & Service:

Jon Poppell

The newest member on the Florida Strawberry Festival’s board of directors has been involved in the festival’s agriculture scene since he was a teenager.

JON POPPELL Festival title: Director on board of directors; chairman of the steer committee Job title: Vice president of personal lines, Poppell Insurance Favorite festival food: Gyro Most looking forward to seeing: The Bellamy Brothers, Joe Nichols, Little Big Town

EMILY TOPPER MANAGING EDITOR

or Jon Poppell, the Florida Strawberry Festival is always a homecoming. The Plant City native and vice president of personal lines at Poppell Insurance was elected to the festival’s board of directors in September 2016. A position became vacant in June with the death of longtime director Terry Ballard. Though his election was recent, Poppell’s service to the biggest event in Plant City spans decades. Prior to being elected, Poppell served as an associate director for 15 years. Like many of his fellow Redcoats, his contributions to the festival began with volunteering. “The festival has a tremendous amount of volunteers,” Poppell said. “That’s the lifeblood of the festival. I liked volunteering.” Florida Strawberry Festival President Dan Walden also works for Poppell Insurance, and both have been active for years in the festival’s many events. When Walden was serving as the chairman for the Youth Livestock Swine Show and Sale, he encouraged Poppell to start volunteering. “I showed steers as a teenager at the festival,” Poppell said. “I always showed steers, from seventh grade to my senior year of high school.” Following his graduation from high school, Poppell attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultur16

“Can you steer me to the nearest volunteer sign-up sheet? See what I did there?”

Courtesy photo

Jon Poppell is the newest director on the festival’s board.

al College in Tifton, Georgia, before graduating from Florida Southern College in Lakeland. He’s worked for Poppell Insurance for close to 30 years, but his involvement in the festival is the equivalent of a second job. From his days as a volunteer, Poppell took over some of Walden’s responsibilities as he moved up the ranks, eventually filling in as the chairman of the swine committee. To date, he still serves as chairman of the steer committee. “I’m still in charge of the steer show,” he said. “Every director

kind of has an area of responsibility, which is what makes it work. I look forward to learning about more than just the agriculture area, but that will always be my first love. I love working with the kids.” Poppell and his wife of almost 30 years, Leslie, have passed down the love of agriculture to their sons, Daniel and Seth. “They both went to the University of Florida,” Poppell said. “Daniel is a seed salesman for Clifton Seed, and Seth works for W & W Supply Company of Florida.”

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

In addition to his work with the festival, Poppell was also a charter member of Plant City’s Daybreak Rotary Club. He has been a member of the Noon Rotary Club for about 15 years, and served as chairman of the United Food Bank of Plant City for two years. He still serves on the food bank’s board. “I love it here,” Poppell said. “All my life I’ve been here, and I’ve never wanted to leave.The festival is the biggest family reunion in the county. I’ll see people there that I only see once a year, and they might live two

miles from me. Everybody strolls through eventually.” He would encourage anyone who wants to get involved with the festival to find an area they’re passionate about — such as agriculture — and pursue it. “There are a bunch of opportunities,” he said. “There’s people that are ambassadors that have been doing it for 30 years or longer. Whatever you’re interested in, they can usually find something to put you in.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com. PlantCityObserver.com

We asked: What does the

Florida Strawberry Festival mean to you?

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“Friends and family, and a lot of visitors, coming together to have fun in a family-friendly way.” — Sandee Parke-Sytsma

“I would say community pride. The Strawberry Festival is different from other fairs, mainly because it’s got over 2,000 volunteers who work every year.” — Dub McGinnes

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“I’ve been a part of the Strawberry Festival as long as I can remember … The Strawberry Festival is like part of my family. It’s just something that’s inside of you.” — Al Berry

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 17

SPONSORED BY DENTAL ASSOCIATES AT WALDEN LAKE

From field to festival F

or 11 days out of the year, the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World becomes host to thousands of visitors who gather in Plant City to attend the town’s biggest event: the Florida Strawberry Festival. Packed daily with shows, rides, livestock exhibits and more, the festival is largely run by volunteers and has a number of wellknown and returning vendors. Established as a family-friendly event, the festival is a celebration of the harvest for berry growers who work in the fields during the cooler winter months and into the spring. The adjacent map shows the major locations for all festival exhibits, rides and more.

FESTIVAL SERVICES nLost & Found Caboose: East end of the Roy & Helen Parke Building. Sponsored by: ClickHeat nCarolina ATMs are located near Woodrow Wilson Street, the TECO Expo Hall, the Arthur Boring Building and other locations throughout the festival. nESCOT Bus Lines Free Shuttle Service running from designated festival parking lots to Gate 14. nImages Everywhere! Festival Photos available at Gates 1, 5, 13, 14, 16 Information Booths: Sponsored by: Uncommon USAPotillo’s Restrooms: Complimentary attendant services available.

ACCESSIBITY PARKING Accessible parking is available on festival property in the Blue Parking Lot across from Gate 14 for $5 and across from the Amscot Main Ticket Gate (Gate 1) on West Oak Avenue for $10. RENTALS Wheelchairs and motorized scooters are available for rent on a first come, first served basis directly inside Gate 1, Gate 14, Gate 16 and the Tour Bus Lot. Wheelchairs: $25 Motorized scooters: $55 for entire day or $35 after 5 p.m.

— EMILY TOPPER

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Pig Races Pioneer Village

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PARKING Parking is available on Florida Strawberry Festival property in the Blue, Gray and Red Parking Lots.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 19

TAMPA BAY TIMES

ERNEST HOOPER

‘We’re Playing Your Song!’ – and so are they Times columnist Ernest Hooper encourages Florida Strawberry Festival guests to seek out artists beyond the Wish Farms Soundstage.

F Courtesy photo

Patti LaBelle, set to perform Saturday, March 11, is a headliner this year.

lorida Strawberry Festival General Manager Paul Davis had long held Patti LaBelle on his wish list of headline entertainment. And just to make sure the soulful LaBelle still had the chops to deliver, he attended one of her recent shows and marveled over the diva’s performance that belied her 72 years. The festival’s brand rests on appearances by big stars like LaBelle, Rascal Flatts, Little Big Town and Jennifer Nettles. Even

so, Davis and his staff invest as much time in choosing the acts beyond the Wish Farms Soundstage. “Our newest on-grounds entertainer this year was actually booked two years ago, if that tells you the time that goes into it,” Lauren McNair, the festival’s media representative, said. “We want people to be entertained all day with their $10 admission, so we try to pack in as much as we possibly can. This year we have our traditional country music, bluegrass, ‘DoWhopHipHop,’ Spanish acts, gospel, a circus act (and) a magic show for children.” The Publix Showcase Tent has acts that perform daily — with the exception of March 5 — including the Redhead Express and Dennis Lee. A sister act, Redhead Express consists of redheads LaRae,

Alisa, Kendra and Meghan Walker and a show branded as bluegrass. The girls, however, also shift into country covers and the occasional pop anthem, always putting their own spin on the music. Lee, long a popular performer on the fair circuit, blends live music, big vocals and a trademark homespun humor best served with some corn on the cob. But Lee endears himself to audiences with genuine enthusiasm — he’s not afraid to sit on an adoring fan’s lap — and an unyielding desire to win over fans. Plus, he’s just a nice guy. Trust me. The Publix tent also features a number of groups making evening appearances, including Will Erickson and the Wreckage, 33 Years and the Soul Circus Cowboys.

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The Cowboys may be the Tampa Bay area’s most popular jam band. It roots its performance in country but when you sit in on one of the shows, abandon the labels. First of all, you won’t be sitting for long. Second, led by Brandon native Billy McKnight, the highenergy effort will cover a range of genres while leaving you more revved up than a strawberry shortcake drowning in whip cream. With 33 Years, you get Paula and Kevin Tolly and the promise of an indie-rock influenced show with “tight, swirling harmonies, folkpunk-like musical backing, ragged Neil Young influences and tenor vocals.” I’m not sure exactly what that means, but I’m intrigued. Erickson also brings a number of influences to his music. Perhaps the Wreckage name is derived from the collision between the acts his parents introduced to him (The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Fleetwood Mac and the Eagles) with the groups of his teen-angst years (Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots and Alice in Chains). I don’t think you

Courtesy photo

The Redhead Express will perform daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at the Publix Showcase Tent.

can go wrong mashing up those musical titans. But if such descriptions don’t entice you, just consider the craft. A certain admiration should rise in our hearts when we watch such groups because it’s love of music — not love of money — driving them to step out on the stage at festivals and bars and clubs. The Florida Strawberry Festival gives us a chance to salute their passion and appreciate

their artistry. “I have so much respect for these guys out there putting it on the line every night for peanuts,” Erickson wrote on his website. “I don’t think there is a value you can put on someone’s soul expressed through music.” Bingo. So whether it’s strawberry concoctions, Midway joys or big-name entertainment that gets you in the gate at the Florida Strawberry Festival,

take a few minutes to check out the musical acts beyond the big stage. Good music deserves a good audience. That’s all I’m saying.

Ernest Hooper is a columnist for the Tampa Bay Times and serves as its East Hillsborough Bureau Chief.

“Are they redheads — or strawberry blondes?”

From boyhood to Director, the Florida Strawberry Festival was truly one of Terry’s loves. He had a passion for what it signified and to govern it to its highest potential. He was grateful to all those involved in its continued success.

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what the Festival has become. We greatly miss him in our lives every day, and know his presence will be missed at the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival. - His Loving Family

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STUDIO 106 nce the cameras start rolling, it doesn’t take long for the memories to come to life. The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center began preserving photographs that captured the past of the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World in 2000, later expanding to include written articles and documents. Now, video recordings are being added to the mix. With funding from the Florida Humanities Council, the center has been able to obtain video recording and lighting equipment. This fall, the center began conducting video interviews as part of the center’s new program, ‘Strawberry Legacies: Field to Festival.’ The video interviews take place

with Plant City residents who have had major involvements with the Florida Strawberry Festival. “It’s wonderful,” Gil Gott, executive director of the Photo Archives, said. “To get them recorded is of great historical significance.” Additionally, Gott has recently published a book about the history of the festival with Lauren McNair, the festival’s public relations and media representative. The book, titled The Florida Strawberry Festival: A Brief History, was published in February 2017. Gott and McNair divided the content by decades. The book includes information on former queens and charter members of the festival. But though the festival has an extensive history that spans over 80 years, finding some information proved to be a challenge. PlantCityObserver.com

been in it.” — Gil Gott, executive director

Sandee Parke-Sytsma, daughter of the late strawberry grower Roy Parke, also has been interviewed. Today, Sytsma serves as the festival’s vice president. While the interviews were beneficial to Gott and McNair as they finalized the festival history book, all interviews will be available for Plant City residents to enjoy at the center. Gott plans to continue the program for as long as people can add to the festival’s history. “Oral histories are just great,” he said. “You’ve got to capture these things. You won’t find it written down anywhere. Once it’s gone, you just can’t make it up. It’s more a chronicling of their memories.” Those interested in having a personal copy of the oral histories must pay for the cost of production of a DVD. The festival oral histories will be available for viewing from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, at the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center, 106 S. Evers St. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com. PlantCityObserver.com

Check out the Strawberry Legacies oral history program at the Photo Archives and History Center. Where: 106 S. Evers St., Plant City Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday Call: (813) 754-1578 Visit: PlantCityPhotoArchives.org

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“There was some sparsity of information for some years,” Gott said. “That made it quite apparent that we need to capture as much as we can from the people who have been in it.” Thus, the oral history project was born. Gott and Kim Hamilton, the center’s administrative assistant, have set up a video recording space at the archives. Dubbed Studio 106, interviews conducted in the space include recordings with longtime festival names including B.M. Mac Smith and Al Berry, two former festival presidents.

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Courtesy photos

Deep-fried strawberry cheese bursts are a festival classic.

SNACKS OUTSIDE THE BOX Looking for fair food less conventional than hot dogs, nachos and ice cream? Try these unique meals at the Florida Strawberry Festival to treat your tastebuds. JUSTIN KLINE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

or the adventurous eater, making a trip to the Florida Strawberry Festival pays off. There are many more food options than the classic strawberry shortcake, and the decision between cake or a biscuit isn’t as wild as one can get. Every year, 24

the Plant City Times & Observer staff rounds up a list of the most unique eats the festival has to offer, and this year features some intriguing newcomers to go with returning favorites. BURSTING WITH FLAVOR

One of the newest food additions should strike up anyone’s sugar craving.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

Deep-fried strawberry cheese bursts, which can be gotten from the Best Around stand, is simple, yet effective: take some cream cheese and strawberry filling, ball it up, stick it in a deep fryer and serve with some powdered sugar. The Best Around’s stand is located near the grandstand entrance, on the west side.

“Sometimes I joke about strawberries being delicious, but this place is no joke y’all. Go ahead and enjoy these delectable concoctions, but please chew quietly. My pals and I will be observing a solemn moment of silence for our fallen brothers and sisters.” PlantCityObserver.com

Courtesy photo

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FROM PAGE 25

“My StrawMama used to call me shortcake. I don’t think this is what she had in mind.”

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One of the most interesting returning food items is Carousel’s Hawaiian Burger, which is a must-have for any fans of Hawaiian pizza. Customers can get their pineapple topping chopped or glazed onto the burger, which also includes a slice of ham and is topped with a cherry. As an added bonus, the buns have been replaced by glazed doughnuts — making this a fresh take on the burger. ONE FESTIVE BURGER

As Plant City gets caught up in the Strawberry Festival spirit, so too does this cheeseburger from Carousel. The Strawberry Shortcake Burger is, well, a cheese-covered patty sandwiched between strawberry shortcake. But, in true Plant City fashion, customers can choose between having cake or biscuits for buns. The Carousel stand is located in the East Independent area. Courtesy photos

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A “BERRY” SWEET DOUGHNUT

The Amish doughnut is a staple of the Florida Strawberry Festival, but that’s not all the Amish Baking Co. has to offer. Filled with creamy chocolate, the Sweetheart is served with toppings of whipped cream, chocolate fudge and chopped strawberries, garnished with a whole strawberry on top. For anyone with a sweet tooth, this concoction is a must-try.

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It wouldn’t be a fair without funnel cake, but guests don’t have to settle for the same old stuff. The Best Around brought back the Orie, which is best described as a giant Oreo cookie built for funnel cake fans. Two funnel cake “cookies” sandwich a layer of cream cheese for a final product closer to the size of a fist than an Oreo. It comes in chocolate, strawberry and “chocoberry” flavors. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com. PlantCityObserver.com

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There are several places to get barbecue at the festival, but only one will serve it to you in the form of a burger. Barbecue fans will dig the Lions Club’s Brisket Burger. A third of a pound of beef brisket is sandwiched between hamburger buns and topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato and onions. The Lions Club will sell this burger and other food at its station by the Arthur Boring building.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 27

Kneading a Passion:

The faces behind the Amish Doughnut One of the most popular baked goods at the Florida Strawberry Festival, the Amish Doughnut has a production process that yields customer satisfaction. DANIEL FIGUEROA IV STAFF WRITER

“Mmmmmm Amish Doughnuts. Even though I am trying to lay off the carbs, someone should help a StrawBuddy out and bring one to my dressing room.”

ut of the more than 20 events the Amish Baking Co. travels to throughout the country every year, the Florida Strawberry Festival and its half a million visitors serves as one of their most popular stops. Nate Peachey, along with siblings Sam and Sadie Peachey, have been serv-

ing up their old-world doughnuts since 2007. Nothing, Nate Peachey said, beats the devotion and desire the siblings see here in Plant City. “Nothing beats the Strawberry Festival,” Nate Peachey said. “We have people who come up from Sarasota and as far as 100 miles away. We don’t see that anywhere else.” Guests who have been to the festival are likely intimately familiar with the confectionated, buttercream-drenched dream

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about four minutes per side and dunked into a buttercream-based glaze. “The dough is very sensitive,” Sam Peachey said. “It’s time-sensitive from when you start mixing it to when it’s ready to use.” It’s part science and part art, he said. It’s necessary to know what the dough should feel like when it’s ready. If it sits for more than one hour unused, it must be thrown away. The yeast-risen style is what gives an Amish Doughnut its familiar light and fluffy texture. The frying gives it a crispy shell. Biting into a warm doughnut, sweet crisp gives way to a fluffy, melt-in-the-mouth experience. While the menu doesn’t often change, the Amish Baking Co. found inspiration at the festival and created the Sweetheart Doughnut, exclusively sold during their time in Plant City. In essence, it’s the siblings’ take on a strawberry shortcake: a glazed Amish doughnut topped with fudge, fresh strawberries (from Plant City, of course) and whipped cream. The life of a nomadic baker can be strenuous. Sam and Nate Peachey travel most of year, heading as far north as Michigan. They work for weeks on end, often putting in 16-hour days. But they wouldn’t have it any other way. “You work really hard while you’re working,” Sam Peachey said. “Then, you get to relax and have some downtime. It’s all about balance. This is by far the best thing I’ve done, careerwise.” Contact Daniel Figueroa IV at dfigueroa@plantcityobserver. com

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of ethereal goodness that is an Amish Doughnut. The face-sized fluff pillows are made daily on the spot from the dough on up, using a generations-old Peachey family recipe. The Peacheys grew up Amish and moved around frequently. Their travels took them to Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Ohio before the health of their father, Thomas Peachey, settled them in an Amish community near Sarasota. Travels which, Sam Peachey said, could be difficult when traveling via horse and buggy. They grew up bakers as well, working in their family’s North Carolina-based Peachey’s Home Baking company. The siblings made sourdough breads, pretzels and other baked goods to sell at local farmer’s markets. It was there, Sam Peachey said, that he and his siblings fell in love with the process of baking and selling their confections. “I’ve always enjoyed working with dough,” Sam Peachey said. “I like working with food, period. It’s a great feeling to make a product that’ll make people smile when you give it to them. That always makes my day.” The love his family shares for their products is evident in the care put into the production process. The Amish doughnut is yeastbased, as opposed to the regular cake-like donut, which takes longer to make. It takes about one hour to get the doughnuts ready. After setting aside 20 minutes for the yeast to rise, the other ingredients including egg, salt and flour — and even potato — are added to the concoction. The dough is then separated and formed, where it rests for the yeast to rise once more. When ready, the doughnuts are fried for

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HOTWHEELS This year’s Unity in the Community vehicle raffle giveaway is a 2017 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport. JUSTIN KLINE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

very year, one lucky winner rides out of the Florida Strawberry Festival in style. That’s because Unity in the Community, a local, volunteer-operated charity, partners with Plant City’s Stingray Chevrolet to raffle off a brand new car at the end of the festival. For the third year in a row, the prize car is a Chevrolet Corvette. This year, though, the grand prize is a Grand Sport. The Corvette Grand Sport packs a lot of punch: its 460-horsepower V8 engine gets drivers from zero to 60 miles per hour in just under four seconds. This year’s model has an eight-

speed paddle shift automatic transmission. Stingray’s torch red ride is loaded with more than the slick black wheels, daytime running lights and tinted windows that meet the eye. It’s outfitted with a Bose sound system, keyless remote engine start capability and heated outside mirrors. The car is hooked up to OnStar, SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and also comes with a Driver Information Center and an oil life monitoring system. Corvette Grand Sports often come with a retail price of around $67,000 but, as always, Stingray is donating the car to Unity in the Community with no strings attached. Rather than wait until

the car is paid off before donating, the dealership will donate all proceeds — even if only a fraction of the $67,000 was raised. But hitting that goal isn’t a problem. Last year’s Corvette Stingray, which featured a custom candy red paint job, raised $185,000 for Unity in the Community. That total bested the 2015 mark by $23,000. That makes the car raffle, which regularly raises more than $100,000 each year, Unity in the Community’s biggest annual fundraising event. Unity in the Community spreads all of the money it raises to charity organizations around Plant City, and has done so since its inception in 1999. The money goes to help families that need food, health care or other forms of help. Since partnering with Stingray eight years ago, the groups have raised over $785,000 to benefit

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

families in need. There are several options for those that wish to buy the $5 raffle tickets. They can be bought in-person at Stingray Chevrolet, 2002 N. Frontage Rd., until 6 p.m. Friday, March 10, or at the Florida Strawberry Festival until 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 12. They can also be bought online at StingrayChevroletRaffle.com until 3 p.m. Friday, March 10. The limit is 50 tickets per person, and the winner will be drawn at 5 p.m. Sunday, March 12, at the festival. The owner of the winning ticket does not need to be present that evening to win the car, but must respond to communication within 72 hours before a new winner is named. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

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Homegrown

QUEEN 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Drew Knotts’ childhood dream came true Saturday, Jan. 21, when she became the third person in her family to become a Florida Strawberry Festival royal. EMILY TOPPER MANAGING EDITOR

hen Drew Knotts was growing up, most of her babysitters were former Florida Strawberry Festival queens. Her earliest memories of wanting to serve on the royal court started around age three, when the former queens — including Katie Butson (Sharer), Alison Archbell and her cousin Chelsea Bowden — would bring their jeweled crowns over for Knotts to play with. “I would be the strawberry queen for the day,” Knotts said. “We would play dress up. Ever since then, I’ve really just looked up to the strawberry queen. I’ve wanted to be her, I’ve wanted the title, I’ve wanted to represent Plant City.” On Saturday, Jan. 21, Knotts stood as a member of the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s court, waiting on stage with anticipation before the winner was called. Newly sashed First Maid Marlee Arn was beside her. She had a one-in-four shot. Beyond the bright lights of the stage, her family was waiting. Knotts’ grandmother, 1953 Florida Strawberry Festival

Queen Ruby Jean Redman, was in the audience. “Your 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen is ... Contestant Number Four, Drew Knotts!” The crowd cheered and jumped to their feet. As 2016 Queen Haley Riley placed the new crown on Knotts’ head, she whispered to her to take her first walk as queen. So Knotts did as she was told, walking down the runway in a gold gown and a crown on her head, waving to the crowd. Her childhood dream come true. Only she wasn’t dreaming, and she wasn’t playing dress up. She’d just become part of something much bigger. ALL IN THE (ROYAL) FAMILY

The Florida Strawberry Festival runs in Knotts’ family, from volunteer involvements to the queen’s royal history. Her cousin, Chelsea Bowden, was crowned in 2012. Her grandmother, Ruby Jean Redman, was crowned in 1953. “My grandmother has a hallway full of old pictures of my mom and her sisters from when they were growing up,” Knotts said. “And her strawberry queen photos are on the wall. It’s just awesome to look at. It’s so cool because she was in the same pageant. Every time we see it, we ask

My StrawGranny once competed for Lil’ Miss Berry Patch back in ‘57 and lost to a raspberry. She spent the rest of her life being jelly.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

PlantCityObserver.com

cy. With her hard-earned crown, Knotts had broken a record: three Florida Strawberry Festival queens from one family. “It’s never been three times in a family before, so that’s really cool,” Knotts said. “I couldn’t be happier. I think that’s honestly a once in a lifetime thing. I’m just so thankful my grandmother was able to come. It’s something our family has looked forward to me doing, and it’s another thing we can bond over.” In a way, Knotts said, she has the best of both worlds. “I cheer,” she said. “I play competitive and high school soccer, and I’ve played varsity flag football for the past three years. I like that. I think it adds a little edge for the strawberry queen to be an athlete, but also to be a queen and be able to represent the town.” Knotts said she hopes that her affinities for working the runway and getting messy on the soccer field will encourage other girls to do the same. “You can do anything you put your mind to,” Knotts said. “We’re perfect examples on the court. Every single one of us is an athlete or a singer. I didn’t pretend to be the perfect pageant girl, because I’m not. I mess up.

I have bruises and scars on my legs, I don’t have perfect skin. But I think that’s what makes me beautiful, that I’m comfortable in my own skin.” When she won, Knotts said, she was grateful to be able to share the moment with her family, including her parents, Andy Knotts and Jeanne Redman Knotts, and her siblings, Regan and Jackson. “I was really surprised,” Knotts said. “All that emotion came rushing to me on stage when they announced it because I knew that I was myself on stage, and that I gave it everything I could. The work finally paid off. I couldn’t even imagine a better moment than that.” She was also grateful for the support her hometown community. “Truly being supported by the community is something you don’t get everywhere, and I think that’s something that makes Plant City special,” Knotts said. “I want Plant City to know wouldn’t have gone out for this pageant if I wasn’t 100% sure I could be that ambassador for this town.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.

File photos

Drew Knotts was crowned the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Saturday, Jan. 21.

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her about it. She’s been able to tell us all these stories from how it changed over time.” Growing up around royals, Knotts knew the importance of both the queen’s pageant and the queen’s role in the community. The Plant City High School senior and fifth generation Plant Citian wasn’t able to participate in the pageant last year due to soccer recruiting — she serves as captain of the varsity team, and has plans to play at Georgia Southern University in the fall — so she wanted to make her senior year special. But this year, she faced similar challenges. After suffering a knee injury on her 18th birthday in November 2016, Knotts had to have knee surgery in December. “Three weeks before the pageant I was on crutches,” she said. “But I set goals, we got into physical therapy and I worked really hard. I’ve waited my whole life to do this pageant.” Though it was her first time in the queen’s pageant, it wasn’t her first crown. In the past, she’s served as the Florida Strawberry Festival’s Junior Royalty Duchess, Princess and Queen. But this particular pageant continued a longstanding lega-

PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 35

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What was your reaction when you found out you made the court? I was completely speechless. I just thought court would be so great and then I was like, ‘Oh my goodness, First Maid!’ I was completely at a loss for words. I was thinking, ‘This is everything I’ve ever dreamed of.’ Especially growing up in Plant City, because you look forward to that.

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What’s it like serving on the court with your fellow Plant City High School Raiders? I just think it’s really cool to have a court that have all been able to go to the same school. I think it will be really convenient too, whenever we have events. But really, I think it’s an honor. I’ve been friends with these girls for as long as I can remember. It just gives us the opportunity to grow with each other. You went out for the pageant last year too, but this year you made First Maid. What was different this year? Last year when I did it, I just did it because I thought it would be cool. Last year I was nervous about it, and I was freaking out before I went on stage. This year, I just felt such a peace and totally content. I just thought, ‘If this is where God wants me this year, then this is where He’ll lead me to be.’

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What are you most looking forward to about the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival? I’m really looking forward to seeing how our palace turns out. I think it’ll be really cool for us to get ready there and then go out as a group. I’m really looking forward to seeing the community. I know we’re all really excited to meet different people. We’ll be feeding off each other’s energy the whole time. What would you recommend to any girl who is thinking about going out for the pageant in the future? I would say do it, for sure. Just because the experience overall is the biggest gain that you would ever get out of it. It’s just a really

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

File photos

“I think it’s time I confer with my agent. These girls have a palace, and I live out in the dirt.”

good way to find yourself. I came out of my shell a lot, I was more outgoing and I wasn’t afraid of public speaking. What is your favorite thing about Plant City? I would say just the community in general. We have such a family

atmosphere, and it’s really cool because everywhere you go in town, you see somebody you’re friends with or that you grew up with. To me, that means so much. I wouldn’t have wanted to grow up anywhere else.

PlantCityObserver.com

COURT MEMBER

CAROLINE BRUMMER What’s it like serving on the court with your fellow Plant City High School Raiders? It’s pretty great. I’m the only junior on the court. It’s good because we’re already so comfortable together, which makes it easier to work together. What are you most looking forward to about the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival? I’m most excited for Midway Day, and to ride on all the rides. Mostly, I’m excited to meet people from Plant City and people of all ages who come to the festival. I’m also looking forward to seeing Patti LaBelle, who I saw on ‘Dancing with the Stars.’ She has so much spunk and sass and grace. She’s truly the Godmother of Soul. What’s your favorite thing about Plant City? Definitely the support I get from so many different people in the community. This is a great place for kids to grow up. We really have such a loving and supportive community here. What was your family’s reaction when you made the court? My dad was relieved. He is not a dress person or anything like that, and he was really happy. My mom was so happy. She worked the closest with me and we went shopping together.

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What was your reaction when you found out you were in the Top 10, and then when you made the court? This has been my dream for so long, all the way back to when I was Little Miss Plant City in 2009. I was excited when I made the top 10 because it was one step closer to my dream. When I was called for court, I didn’t believe it at first.

ONLINE See more photos of the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Scholarship Pageant at PlantCityObserver.com

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FOOTBALL SOCCER BASEBALL LACROSSE

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“I definitely agree with Caroline. Plant City is the best place to grow! I mean, grow up.”

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 37

COURT MEMBER

COURTNEY COTON

Florida Strawberry Festival

What’s it like serving on the court with your fellow Plant City High School Raiders? It’s really exciting. Me and Caroline (Brummer) are together all year on the cheer squad, and Drew (Knotts) and I are together for football season. And I’m friends with Marlee (Arn) and Ariel (Navarrete). It’s exciting to share it with the girls I go to school with and that I’m also friends with. What are you most looking forward to about the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival? I’m just excited to spend all 11 days with four of my really good friends. I’m also excited to represent the festival and the city with these girls, and watch concerts and meet entertainers. I’m most excited to see Rascal Flatts.

Monday, March 6 6:00 p.m.

How did you feel when you were called for the Top 10, and then when you made the court? I was really excited when I was called for the top 10, and relieved. When I got called for the court, I got so excited. We were all smiling at each other. It was a really cool moment. What would you recommend to any girl who is thinking about going out for the pageant in the future? Go for it. It’s a lot of fun ad you’re able to learn a lot about yourself and just have confidence. I’d recommend anyone to go out for it. What was your family’s reaction when you made the court? My family was super excited. My dad has been waiting for me to do this pageant. It was a proud parent moment, for sure.

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What’s your favorite thing about Plant City? The Florida Strawberry Festival, definitely. It’s 11 days of food and entertainment. It’s like Christmastime in Plant City, it’s the best time of the year here.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

File photos

“Give me an ‘R,’ give me an ‘A,’ give me ‘S’ ... I’m not a cheerleader like Courtney, but I’m also berry excited to see Rascal Flatts.”

ONLINE See extended coverage with the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Court online at

PlantCityObserver.com

COURT MEMBER

ARIEL NAVARRETE me, that was a very important award for me. That kind of motivated me to do it again. I told my mom, I said, ‘We’re doing it again this year.’

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What was going through your mind when you found out you made it on the court? The first thing I did was look at my parents because they were the ones who motivated me the whole time to just be myself. One of the past queens also said, ‘If you love yourself, everybody else will love you.’ So that actually always stuck with me.

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What would you recommend to any girl who is thinking about going out for the pageant in the future? I would tell them to do it. It’s such a great feeling to know that you get to serve the community and that you have this opportunity. I would definitely tell them to not miss the chance. Just being in the pageant is a great experience. You become friends with the girls.

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What are you most looking forward to about the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival? Kip Moore. I’ve told everybody that. I’ll probably just hug him the first moment I see him. I love his music.

“As a young seedling, I also ran for student government. My other running mates were just rotten.” What’s it like serving on the court with your fellow Plant City High School Raiders? It feels great. I grew up with Drew (Knotts), Courtney (Coton) and Marlee (Arn). It’s just awesome. We’ve all known each other for a long time. I’m excited to serve the community with friends, and this is just the cherry on top.

PlantCityObserver.com

You were Miss Congeniality last year, and this year you made it on the court. How does that feel? It was great. The first year was a very positive competition for me. Getting Miss Congeniality for me was so important because it showed that girls who knew me for a certain period of time thought I was a nice person. To

What’s your favorite thing about Plant City? The community, the people in it. Being in student government has really given me the opportunity to see how much the companies in our community want to see young people be successful in life. I love the people in the community. What was your family’s reaction when you made it on the court? They were so excited. I saw them all screaming and jumping. The first thing I yelled to them was ‘Mi gente!’ and that means ‘my people’ in Spanish. They were excited for me.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 39

Fit for a strawberry

Queen Sisters Marsha Passmore and Dodie White are in charge of organizing the Strawberry’s Queen’s Exhibit in the festival’s Neighborhood Village. EMILY TOPPER MANAGING EDITOR

Emily Topper

To fit this year’s theme of ‘We’re Playing Your Song!’ sisters Marsha Passmore and Dodie White featured photos of headliners with queens from years past on display.

arsha Passmore and Dodie White can’t remember a time when they didn’t attend the Florida Strawberry Festival. Their earliest memories of the 11-day event are watching the Grand Parade with their mother, Dora Beveard. Years later, the s isters began attending the festival on their own. Year after year, the sisters’ vol-

unteer work continued to grow at Plant City’s biggest event. Passmore and White volunteered on the trams that pulled people around the festival for at least 15 years, and have worked at festival booths for even longer. “We still love it,” White said. “That 11 days is like magic for both of us. There is something here for absolutely everybody.” Last year, the sisters collected the crowns of former Strawberry Queens to be placed on display in the festival’s Neighborhood

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“I always thought my history as the one and only StrawBuddy should be immortalized in a display case as well. Apparently, Marsha and Dodie said ‘Knott.”

REMEMBERING THE ROYALS

Florida Strawberry Festival General Manager Paul Davis, along with Sandee Parke-Sytsma, vice president of the festival’s board of directors, were responsible for asking Passmore and White to take over the queen’s exhibit the year before. In the past, the chairmanship was held by former queens Barbara Bowden, Sherrie Chambers Mueller and Silvia Dodson. “Sandee Sytsma and Paul Davis called and asked to meet with us,” Passmore said. “We weren’t sure we would do it justice.” But, as they do for so many other events in Plant City, the sisters accepted. They moved the existing queen’s exhibit from the festival’s main exhibit hall to the Neighborhood Village before the 2016 festival began. At that time, the queen’s exhibit boasted a series of photos of each former queen, ranging from first queen Charlotte Rosenberg in 1930 to Samantha Sun in 2015. Passmore and White dusted off the photos and rehung each one in a long class case. At each end of the case, they left room for a former queen’s dress to be displayed. Last year, the sisters showed off the dresses worn by 2016 Queen Haley Riley and 1971 Queen Sherrie Chambers Mueller. This year’s display cases are connected by more than just royalty. 2017 Queen Drew Knotts’ flower-printed dress is in one of the display cases. The other case goes back to 1953, when Knotts’ grandmother, Ruby Jean Redman, was crowned queen. The case includes a retro mixer and toaster, both of which Red-

m a n wa s given the year she won. Knotts, who was crowned in January, is the third in her family to be queen. Her cousin, Chelsea Bowden, was crowned in 2012. “We had so much fun putting this together,” Passmore said. To match the 2017 festival theme of ‘We’re Playing Your Song!’ the sisters collected photos of past queens and their courts with headliners from previous years. In addition to the photos, records donated by Eleanor Poppell line the display case. “We thought, ‘What better way to showcase this year’s theme than pictures with past entertainers?” White said. “The first one we have is from 1980.” Headliners and pictures featured in this year’s exhibit include Charlie Daniels in 1999, Jason Aldean in 2008 and Taylor Swift in 2009. Though the exhibit serves as a way for Passmore and White to pay tribute to part of the festival’s longstanding history, the project has an added special meaning for them, too. “Marsha and I stay very busy and we’re torn in a thousand directions on a daily basis,” White said. “There’s very little time that we get to spend together, just the two of us. Working on the queen’s exhibit is one of those times. We’re thankful to God for allowing us to have that bit of time to work together on the exhibit.” The queen’s exhibit will be open to the public beginning Thursday, March 2. Located in the Neighborhood Village behind the festival’s main office, the exhibit will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

A photo of 2009 Queen Lauren Der with her court and headliner Taylor Swift is part of this year’s exhibit.

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Village to fit the 2016 theme of ‘Royal Fun for Everyone.’ For 2017, the exhibit is back with an all-new display for the 82nd Florida Strawberry Festival.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 41

Come and see us at the Florida Strawberry Festival

Meet a Former Queen:

Karen Owens Romero

To learn more about Florida strawberries, visit our web site. FLORIDASTRAWBERRY.ORG Office: 813.752.6822 Fax: 813.752.2167

Courtesy photo

Karen Owens Romero was crowned 1977 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen as a 17-year-old.

Crowned 40 years ago in 1977, Karen Owens Romero is still proud of the festival and all it stands for. EMILY TOPPER MANAGING EDITOR

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

s a kid, Karen Owens Romero was shy. “I didn’t say much until kindergarten,” Romero said. Wanting her to become more outgoing, Romero’s mother enrolled her in dance classes. “Dancing helped me come out of my shell,” she said. “It really did help me, and I ended up loving it. I did tap, ballet, jazz, you

name it.” Out of all the styles she learned, tap was her favorite. And she was good at it — 40 years ago, tap was Romero’s talent of choice when she was crowned the 1977 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. “I was really shocked,” Romero said. “I had been Little Miss Plant City, and I was a performer so being on stage came kind of natural for me. But I went out for it just because it was fun.” Unlike some girls who compete PlantCityObserver.com

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“My favorite part is seeing everybody that I know there that I may not see all year.”

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Favorite Festival Food: A corn dog or cotton candy Favorite way to eat strawberries: Regular, fresh and cold, or chocolate-dipped strawberries

— Karen Owens Romero

in the pageant today, Romero didn’t have a coach before working the pageant circuit. Instead, she talked with women who inspired her. “When I was younger, I talked with Ruth Brown and her sister, Della Kimbel,” Romero said. “They told me how to be a lady.” As queen, Romero’s favorite part of the festival was meeting and talking to new people. “It was fun just to walk around and meet people,” she said. “It was just fun, that interaction. I’m a people person, I’m a social person.” Today, Romero admires the community involvement of the current queen and court, which she believes has grown since her time as a royal. “They’re much more involved than we were,” she said. “They’re more community-focused. I think now the focus is better, to be more aware and educated about our community. It’s a very good thing.” Romero, a Plant City native, still resides in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. She currently works as the director for the First Presbyterian Church of Plant City’s Learning Center. “Once you graduate from high school, you really get grounded and realize the value of family and the value of walking into a business and them knowing you,” Romero said. “That is so valuable.” As a former queen, Romero still looks forward to taking her family to the festival every year. In 2017, she’ll also be able to take her newest family members with her. “I have three new grandchildren,” she said “I’m just so excited to be a new ‘mimi.’ I’m excited to experience the festival through their eyes, and I’m excited to see their reactions when they get here.” For Romero, the festival still has that same hometown, community feel that it had 40 years ago. “It’s like a homecoming,” she

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What did you do with your dress and crown? My dress was donated to the 1914 Community Center. My crown was donated to Marsha Passmore and Dodie White for their queen exhibit at the festival.

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said. “My favorite part is seeing everybody that I know there that I may not see all year. I like being able to be social and see all my friends and colleagues. It’s wonderful. That just powers me. The festival and the directors have been very successful in keeping the hometown feel, and that’s what I like about it. I’m proud to be part of it. I think God has blessed Plant City and the festival by keeping it the way it is. ”

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SHOPPING GUIDE

PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES & HISTORY CENTER

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here’s no shortage of goods, trinkets and other souvenirs to be bought at the Florida Strawberry Festival. But businesses around Plant City want festival-goers to know that they, too, have strawberry gear to buy and food to eat. The Plant City Times & Observer staff checked out restaurants, boutiques and other stores around the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World in search of good deals and keepsakes that capture the heart of Plant City.

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE TANK TOP Everyone has their own priorities and, at the Florida Strawberry Festival, strawberry shortcake always comes first. Let people know what’s most important with this tank top from RAOK Boutique.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

Fringe Boutique 601 E. Alexander St. Price: $34

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The Florida Strawberry Festival A Brief History

One of the most popular jewelry brands in the country has roots right here in Plant City. Durant High alumna Carley Ochs’s Bourbon and Boweties bangles sell like crazy during Strawberry Festival season. The brand releases a new design each year. The 2017 edition is set to be released shortly before the festival, and Fringe Boutique will have it.

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STRAWBERRY HANDBAG For the women out there that love unique handbags, Fringe Boutique has something to offer. The boutique’s strawberry handbag will boost anyone’s bag swag without breaking the bank.

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Fringe Boutique 601 E. Alexander St. Price: $34

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STRAWBERRY YETI TUMBLERS When it’s sunny at the Florida Strawberry Festival, having a cold drink goes a long way. Fringe Boutique sells these strawberry-adorned Yeti tumblers in 20- and 30-ounce models that will keep anyone’s drink colder than a Yeti eating frozen spaghetti.

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STRAWBERRY VASE

ST. PADDY’S DAY PARKING LOT PARTY

Located in Historic Downtown, the Art Lounge Gallery has something unique for locals and visitors alike. Local artists often stock the shop with strawberry-themed pieces, such as this vase by Josh McCarty of Born in Fire Raku Pottery.

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Art Lounge Gallery 119 E. Reynolds St. Price: $45

HAND-PAINTED STRAWBERRY GLASSES AND STRAWBERRY PITCHER

To Celebrate 10 Years in Plant City

Stay at the Fleet Hotel in Dublin Tour Old Jameson Distillery Guiness Connoisseur Experience City Insider Cork Day Tour Visit the Blarney Castle Much More!

Whether you’re enjoying punch with the family or some sweet strawberry wine with someone special, these glasses will make a great addition to your picnic set. Hand-painted by local artist Jules Burt, these strawberry glasses are perfect for a sunny Florida afternoon.

TRIP DAT

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June 9-15 2017

RAOK Boutique 2804 James L. Redman Pkwy #103 Price: $38 pitcher; $23 glasses

Please ask staff for more details STRAWBERRY JAM SHIRT AND ONESIE

1701 S Alexander St, Plant City FL 33566

Making a batch of good jam is a common use for some sweet Plant City strawberries. Now, momma and baby can both show their love with this “That’s my jam” and “That’s momma’s jam” onesie and t-shirt designed by local firm GTribe designs.

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RAOK Boutique 2804 James L. Redman Pkwy #103 Price: $24

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

PlantCityObserver.com

WATER TOWER TOWN SHIRT While in town for the Strawberry Festival, make sure to check out the iconic strawberry water tower. It’s one of Plant City’s more unique features, and this shirt shows you know your way around the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. Fringe Boutique 601 E. Alexander St. Price: $32

Plant City’s Leisure Lifestyle Manufactured Home Community

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3-D STRAWBERRY HAT FRINGE BOUTIQUE Bad hair day? Too much sun? Whatever the reason, you can keep your head cool and covered while still repping Plant City pride with this original creation from Fringe Boutique. Fringe Boutique 601 E. Alexander St. Price: $27.99

Family Owned & Operated

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Joe McInto

The Art Lounge Gallery 119 E. Reynolds St. Price: $200

• Southern Style Club House • Pool • Mini-Golf • Picnic Area • Shuffleboard

k Paul Buc

Like turtles? Your friends and family will love your artistic eye when they see this fun and original watercolor by local artist Rebecca Nipper hanging in your home. If the piece is gobbled up before you get to it, fear not. The gallery also has prints available.

Beautiful Rental Lots!

Hwy. 39 N. man Hwy

STRAWBERRY NOMS

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 47

STRAWBERRY-BASIL LEMONADE With it’s “Eat Well or Die” motto, The Corner Store in Plant City has become a champion of locally sourced, sustainable foods. This strawberry-basil lemonade, a light and refreshing beverage, can be perfectly paired with the eatery’s strawberry walnut salad.

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The Corner Store 121 E. Reynolds St. Price: $3.50

WORLD-FAMOUS STRAWBERRY MILKSHAKE Named the ‘Best Drinkable Dessert’ by Food Network, Parkesdale Farm Market’s strawberry milkshake is sure to hit your sweet spot. Don’t forget to sit in the Parkesdale throne on your visit.

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STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE With a special cake mixture, Krazy Kup now offers up its own strawberry shortcake in addition to a cup of joe. Of course, no shortcake would be complete without whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top. Krazy Kup 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Price: $4.57

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Grove Equipment Services 908 East Baker Street Plant City, FL Tel: 813-759-8722 • Fax: 813-752-9627

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The great outdoors just got better...

COME SEE US AT HH GREGG LOT SATURDAY, MARCH 4TH 9-5

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Hwy 60 & Falkenburg in Brandon

Cabot Creamery Co-operative is looking to make the world’s largest strawberry yogurt smoothie at the Florida Strawberry Festival. JUSTIN KLINE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

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he Florida Strawberry Festival is the biggest deal in Plant City, ries the featured fruit in making and it may soon have the the world’s largest strawberry biggest strawberry smoothie in smoothie,” Florida Strawberry the world. Growers Association Executive On Friday, March 3, the fes- Director Kenneth Parker said. tival will host Cabot Creamery “This is a record we are proud to Co-operative’s attempt to create be part of, and we hope that the over 1,000 gallons of strawberry record stands for many years.” yogurt smoothie in one day. The This smoothie will require a attempt will be monitored by 1,000-gallon holding vessel and Guinness World Records, which eight residential, four commerpreviously oversaw Cabot’s 2013 cial and two bicycle blenders, all smoothie record — a 400-pound provided by Vitamix. Cabot plans concoction that has since been to have people riding the bicycle doubled in size by other parties. blenders from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., What goes into a 1,000-gal- with riders coming and going in lon smoothie? Cabot and chef 15-minute intervals. Plant City plan to use 250 TM Times & Observer Sports/AssoMadeJimmy FromKennedy Scratch Biscuits gallons of Cabot Vanilla Bean ciate Editor Justin Kline will be Greek Yogurt, 3,375 pounds of one of the riders. ice, 265 pounds of Cabot whey But the smoothie isn’t just FOR $ protein powder being made to set a world record. plus tax and — because it’s LB. the Florida Strawberry Festi- All proceeds from the event will 1/3 ORIGINAL val — 2,000 pounds of Plant City benefit the United Food Bank of THICKBURGER strawberries. ® Plant City and Feeding Tampa “We are extremely pleased Bay. to be part of this event and to “We are grateful to be the have fresh Florida strawber- recipient for this record-break229519

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Where: Cabot tent, north side of the Carnegie House, near Gate 1 When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, March 3 Cost: Minimum $1 donation gets a commemorative cup and a smoothie after the record completion

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Tuesdays and

$ 00 FOR James 1713 Redman Parkway • Plant City , Florida • 813-752-3075 Wednesdays

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Offer valid through 3/31/17 at participating restaurants.

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1713 James Redman Parkway Plant City , Florida • 813-752-3075

PlantCityObserver.com

“After this event, please keep an eye on my BerryGram account. If I don’t post anything for a few days, please send out a search party.” ing event with our partners at Cabot,” Feeding Tampa Bay Executive Director Thomas Mantz said. “The enormity of this record reminds us of the enormity of the hunger issue in our community, with 700,000 of our neighbors not having stable access to food. The fresh and healthy ingredients used in this smoothie are perfectly aligned with Feeding Tampa Bay’s goal to deliver more fresh, nutritious foods to those in need every year.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

Courtesy photo

Participants will bike in 15-minute intervals in an effort to create the smoothie. The process will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. `

Covering Hillsborough and Polk County. Endorsed by Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and Polk County Cattlemen's

Follow us on facebook and instagram 1507 S Alexander St. #103, Plant City, FL 33563 www. inthefieldmagazine.com @InTheFieldMagazine PlantCityObserver.com

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OFFICE PHONE 813-759-6909

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 51

Get Ready to Read

The Florida Strawberry Festival: A Brief History The Florida Strawberry Festival: A Brief History will cover the festival from its inception through 2016. GIL GOTT PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES AND HISTORY CENTER

atch for the book – soon to be published by the Florida Strawberry Festival! The Florida Strawberry Festival was first presented in March of 1930 in Plant City to celebrate the town’s most notable product – the strawberry. With a then-population of 6,800 within the city, and many more in the surrounding com-

m s e o t C i c e s g i a P L Lipstick with Aloe Vera, m s e o t C i c e s g i a Minerals & Oils for Hours of P m s e o t C i ige L cs Courtesy photos

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rry Lipstick with Aloe Vera, he Strawbe T t a us it is V uilding Minerals & Oils for of - Main B ivalHours st e F Lipstickwith with Aloe Vera, Booth 31 Long Lasting Beauty Lipstick Aloe Vera,

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munities of Dover, Hopewell, Seffner, Trapnell, Lithia, Turkey Creek, Cork and Springhead, the festival drew an impressive 15,000 attendees on its first day. The festival has gone on for the past 86 years, save for a short hiatus during the World War II era. The long-running festival continues to focus on the area’s agriculture, including its 4-H and FFA clubs. There have been stories written in the past about the Florida Strawberry Festival, but there has not been a complete history of the festival from its inception in 1930 through 2016 – until now. The Florida Strawberry Festival: A Brief History is scheduled for publication in time to be available for this year’s festival. The book is an outgrowth of the Florida Strawberry Festival board of directors’ years of discussion of publishing a book about the festival. This time, the discussion began in earnest in July 2015 and a contract was signed with the Donning Company, Publisher. The board of directors appointed General Manager Paul Davis to oversee the project, and history committee members Al Berry and the late Terry Ballard were advisors. Davis assigned the task of researching and writing the book to Florida Strawberry Festival Media Representative Lauren McNair, along with Plant City Photo Archives and History Center Executive Director Gil Gott. Working closely with the Donning Company’s editor, McNair and Gott completed their work in November 2016. After editing, reviewing proofs and making some additional changes, they finalized the book in January 2017. It is currently going into production with a target date for shipment in late February. The coffee table-type book is in both black and white, and

“Eighty-six years of festival history? Wow! Thankfully there’s a book since I can’t even remember where I parked.” full color, with over 200 pages, a colorful dust jacket, and a bright re d h a rd bound cover. The narrative text covers a preface, a five-page introduction, a brief overview, and two chapters, each divided into decades and covering the years 1930 through 2016. This section includes over 200 images and photographs. The appendices include 82 photos of festival queens from 1930 through 2017, and listings of all maids in the queens’ courts. There are also 25 photos of the festival presidents and a complete listing of all the many directors over the years, as well as a list of the charter members. Last, the book also includes an extensive index consisting of 13 pages. Organizers are planning to hold a special event to release the new publication and celebrate the 80-some years of the festival and its amazing history. Book-signing events are also being planned and information will be available soon by contacting the Florida Strawberry Festival or the Photo Archives and History Center. For further information contact the Photo Archives at (813) 754 -1578 or email gil@ plantcityphotoarchives.org.

PlantCityObserver.com

Celebrating heritage and harvests in the community. Since 1930, the Florida Strawberry Festival has brought people together from across the state to celebrate traditions, bountiful successes and to enjoy parades and entertainment. Mosaic is proud of the 4-H and FFA students who work to make the Strawberry Festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s livestock events a success. Mosaic also salutes the community members and businesses that come out each year to support youth agriculture and this time-honored community event.

ÂŽ

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We help the world grow the food it needs.

mosaicco.com/florida

PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 53

FUN FACTS Plant City’s favorite fruit is one of the most interesting around. Did you know these facts about strawberries? n Strawberries can be grown nearly anywhere, and most continents have their own native species — except for Africa, Australia and New Zealand. n The strawberry is grown in all 50 of the United States, but the top two states for fruit production are California and Florida. n Strawberries are members of the rose family, and are the first fruits to ripen in the spring. n Florida’s strawberry season runs from December through May. The season peaks around March, coinciding with the Florida Strawberry Festival. n Because their flesh doesn’t derive from the ovary, strawberries are actually not considered to be berries. Instead, they fall in the “accessory fruit” group with apples and cucumbers.

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n There are approximately 247 varieties of strawberries, but one of the most popular to grow in Plant City is the Florida Radiance. Why? This fruit was bred to thrive in the state’s winter conditions.

“Did you know strawberries are members of the rose family? This must be why my favorite Golden Girl is Rose Nylund. Strawberries are red, blueberries are blue, I come from the rose family and I smell good, too!”

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

PlantCityObserver.com

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STORE HOURS:PARKWAY 2103 JAMES L REDMAN

MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM - 6PM | SATURDAY 7:30AM - 5PM | CLOSED SUNDAYS

McDonalds McDonalds

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813-756-2483

2103 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY

t t A l e x a nAdleerx aSn d e r S

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Reynolds St.

39 Park Rd

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Publix Publix Walmart Walmart

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THOUSANDS OF MAJOR BRAND TIRES IN STOCK!

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THOUSANDS OF MAJOR BRAND TIRES IN STOCK!

PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 55

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

PlantCityObserver.com

TEST YOUR

STRAWBERRY KNOWLEDGE 1

Roughly how many seeds does the average strawberry have?

A: 100 B: 200 C: 300 D: 400

Which other fruit has its seeds on the outside?

A: Papaya B: Dragonfruit C: Passion fruit D: No other fruit

What type of plant is the strawberry?

Where is the Strawberry Museum located?

A: Belgium B: California C: France D: Plant City

Which flower is the strawberry a direct relative of?

A: Sunflower B: Tulip C: Zinnia D: Rose

Where can one find the world’s largest strawberry shortcake every year?

A: Florida Strawberry Festival B: Lebanon Strawberry Festival C: San Diego Strawberry Festival D: Pawnee Strawberry Festival

“What do you call a sad berry, or even a sad StrawBuddy?”

How many strawberries make up one serving?

A: 10 B: 12 C: 14 D: 16

According to the University of Illinois, what percentage of American households eats strawberries?

RAOK boutique is located in The Village

A: 64% B: 74% C: 84% D: 94%

ANSWERS: 1. B, 2. D, 3. C, 4. A, 5. D, 6. B, 7. A, 8. D STRAWBUDDY RIDDLE: A BLUEBERRY PlantCityObserver.com

It’s Strawberry Season at RAOK 2804 James L. Redman Parkway Suite 103 Plant City, FL 33566 RAOK Regular Business Hours Monday - Saturday 10:00AM to 5:00PM

Brighton • Alex + Ani • Kendra Scott Crystallized Necktize • Joseph Ribkoff Loren Hope • & more...

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A: Annual B: Bi-annual C: Perennial D: Bi-ennial

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 57

Then ... F

rom 1930 until today, the Florida Strawberry Festival has served as one of the most beloved traditions in Plant City. Some of the activities date back decades, including the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce booth, shown here in 1959, as well as high school bands marching in the annual Grand Parade. The Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Scholarship pageant is also a longstanding tradition. From 1973, court member Essie Cecille Dixon is pictured with 1973 Queen Phyllis Head. Photos are courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center. — EMILY TOPPER

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

PlantCityObserver.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wow, look at that parade! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost the same amount of people that came to see my first production of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;A MidBerry Nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dream.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;?

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PLANT CITY 1907 S. Alexander St., Ste. 2 Plant City, FL 33566 | (813)752-6604 BRANDON 329 Pauls Dr. Brandon, FL 33511 | (813)689-9297

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 59

... & Now L

ast year, more than 560,000 people attended the 2016 Florida Strawberry Festival. Decades later, the annual festival still has the hometown roots it has had for the last eight decades: a place where families, friends and the Plant City community gather together to celebrate the harvest and the town they call home. Guests come from far and wide to join in on the fun. From the Grand Parade and rides to fair food and more, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something for everyone here.

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; EMILY TOPPER

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

PlantCityObserver.com

“So many people! My StrawPals and I may need to increase our handout samples of my new fragrance StrawBuddy Fields. This fragrance may be sprayed on any livestock you encounter to make your experience less troubling.”

WALDEN LAKE CAR WASH

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Dr. Jeremy H. Gaffney O.D. Dr. Barry M. Gaffney, O.D. PA Dr. Daniel G. Gaffney O.D. The struggle between fashion and function is officially declared a tie! Never before have eyeglass frames been offered in so many stylish choices. Yet, you’ll be amazed at how many options are at your fingertips to help you see well and protect your vision!

www.drgaffney.com 813.754.3593 | 2002 S. Alexander St., Plant City, FL 33563

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STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL SPECIAL

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 61

File photos

Left: Baked goods are popular fair food, from Amish doughnuts to shortcake. Below: The annual Lamb Costume Contest is a crowd favorite. This year’s Moonlight Magic will take place Friday, March 3 and Friday, March 10.

Babies raced to the finish line in last year’s diaper derby.

UNCLE MIKE’SL SMOKEHOUSE GRIL 106 East State Road 60, Plant City, FL 33567

B U I L D I N G R E L AT I O N S H I P S O N E G E N E R AT I O N AT A T I M E

(On the Corner of SR 60 & Hwy 39)

813-737-4444

Our store location will be closed during the Strawberry Festival . . . All repairs will be done in our booth at the Festival instead!

Fairground: 303 N. Lemon St. • Plant City, FL

WE BUY GOLD!

9 00

Burger Night with Fries & Drink

Ronaldo Designer Jewelry

Thurs 4PM - Close Free Line DanceLessons 7:30

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4pm-Close

with purchase of beverage

Custom Strawberry Jewelry by: JCS

Call us at 813-752-2413

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Come see us at BOOTH 115 & 116 under the grandstands. We’re open daily at the Festival from 10am-10pm | March 2-12, 2017

Looking a little ‘sheepish’ there, lambchop. Have you been a ‘baaaaaaaad’ boy?”

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ALL YOU CAN EAT STEAK SATURDAY

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Facepainting and rides are always popular activities.

PlantCityObserver.com

PARKESDALE’S Sweet Line Up.

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry Shortcake & Ice Cream

Sunday Boat

Berries & Cream

(Strawberries & Vanilla Ice Cream)

Milkshakes

Voted Best Drinkable Dessert by Food Network

PARKESDALE 3702 W. Baker Street • Plant City, FL.

Hwy 92 west of Plant City limits off I-4 between exits 17 & 19 OPEN 9-6PM OPEN 7 DAYS

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE 63

1407 W. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL

Plant City - Lakeland - Riverview - Lake Mary 64

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER 2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GUIDE

228018

Strawberry Shortcake Served Daily

PlantCityObserver.com