2012 FL Strawberry Festival Queen Pageant

77th ANNUAL

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL® Queen’s Scholarship Pageant Plant City, Florida March 1-11, 2012

Victoria Watkins

2011 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen

We are a proud supporter of the 2012

Florida Strawberry FeStival

Get your advance tickets today! • www.flstrawberryfestival.com

®

REBA

HANK WILLIAMS, JR. “TAKING BACK THE COUNTRY TOUR”

VINCE GILL

THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND

LUKE BRYAN

This year marks the 77th year for the Festival. We salute the hard work and dedication of the festival staff, board members, community leaders and visitors who will make this year’s Festival the best ever.

Also, as we enter our 58th year of service to the community, we thank all our friends and customers for making this milestone possible.

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

THE BAND PERRY

s ie r o m e M t e e w S g in w o r G

MAR. 1 - MAR. 11, 2012 PLANT CITY, FLORIDA

Plant City

Main Office 102 W. Baker St. 752-6193 2 Plant City Lions Club

Walden Woods

2400 Jim Redman Pkwy.

754-1844

Zephyrhills

36450 Eiland Blvd.

782-9593

Riverview

7459 Highway 301 S. 677-7102

JOSH TURNER

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS

TOBYMAC

THE GATLIN BROTHERS

CRYSTAL GAYLE

DEMI LOVATO

LEE GREENWOOD

LOUISE MANDRELL

THE JANEDEAR GIRLS

Brandon

420 W. Brandon Blvd.

689-1271 Plant City Lions Club

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Thanks for Your Support and

WELCOME

Plant City Lions Club Officers 2011-2012 Serving Eastern Hillsborough County for Over 80 Years

to the 77th Annual Strawberry Festival Queen’s Scholarship Pageant

L

ions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization with more than 1.3 million members in more than 45,000 clubs worldwide.

Clubs are comprised of active men and women in more than 200 countries and geographic areas. The Lions Clubs are best known for fighting blindness. This effort is supported by conducting vision screenings, equipping hospitals and clinics, distributing medicine and raising awareness of eye disease.

Lions work through their mission of providing vision for all. Lions have extended their commitment to sight conversation through countless local efforts and through their International SightFirst Program, which works to eradicate blindness.

The Plant City Lions Club was established in 1929 and is credited with being an integral part of starting the Florida Strawberry Festival in 1930. This partnership continues as the Plant City Lions Club hosts the annual Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Pageant. The Pageant is one of three major fundraising events for the Plant City Lions Club. The club also hosts an annual

golf tournament and runs an 11 day food booth at the Florida Strawberry Festival. As a result of the continued success of these major fundraising events, the Plant City Lions Club has a rich history of supporting much needed outreach in our local community and beyond.

In addition to supporting local and international sight programs, the Plant City Lions Club supports local organizations like Meals on Wheels, the United Food Bank of Plant City, Steppin Stone Farm, Southeast Guide Dogs, South Florida Baptist Hospital and more. Overall, the Plant City Lions Club invests more than $50,000.00 annually into outreach.

The Plant City Lions Club is also credited with empowering the next generation. The clubs outreach dollars support scholarships for our local high schools and homeschool students, Boys and Girls Scouts, Boys and Girls Club, and Little League. Also, our Leo Program provides the youth of Plant City with an opportunity for personal development through volunteering. Leos from our local high schools provide volunteer support for

GAIL LYONS President

all of the Plant City Lions Club events and activities. They are also active volunteers in their local high schools, for the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and for the United Food Bank of Plant City.

The Lions Club motto is “We Serve.” Lions are part of a global service network, doing whatever is necessary to help our local communities.

KERRIE GAFFORD First Vice President

JASON JONES

STEVE NIERMAN Second Vice President

KELLEIGH KLEIN

Third Vice President

Immediate Past President

Past Presidents of the Plant City Lions Club

2012 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Scholarship Pageant

A. Schneide......................................... 1929-30 W.D. Marley....................................... 1930-31 C.O. McRae & G.B. Overton............. 1931-32 Solon Southerland & Treman Barnes... 1932-33 No Record of Officers......................... 1933-34 Treman Barnes.................................... 1934-35 Dr. Edgar Austin................................. 1935-36 Edgar Hull.......................................... 1936-37 Edwin Griffin...................................... 1937-38 L.E. Morgan, Jr................................... 1938-39 J.Y. Blake, Jr........................................ 1939-40 Harrell B. West.................................... 1940-41 Mack P. Clark...................................... 1941-42 Fred D. Alley....................................... 1942-43 John H. Cone...................................... 1942-44 G.E. Blevins........................................ 1944-45 J.C. Moore.......................................... 1945-46 J.K. McAllister.................................... 1946-47 O.M. Andrews.................................... 1947-48 R.R. Abbot.......................................... 1948-49 Earl C. Barker..................................... 1949-50 R.H. Crum......................................... 1950-51 Dr. C. Glynn Capps............................ 1951-52 Sim C. Sparkman................................ 1952-53 Denton L. Cook.................................. 1953-54 Jack Dempsey...................................... 1954-55 R.L. Morgan, Jr................................... 1955-56 W. B. Henderson................................. 1956-57 4 Plant City Lions Club

This contest is sponsored by the Plant City Lions Club who will conduct the pageant through the Coronation Ceremony of the five finalists, one of whom becomes the 2011 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. The contestants are judged on personal interview, personality, beauty and poise. The entire pageant will be conducted at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds on Feburary 5, 2011 at 6:00pm.

Donald R. Yoho.................................. 1957-58 Paul Bailey.......................................... 1958-59 Cecil Everidge..................................... 1959-60 W. Glenn Knox................................... 1960-61 Henry McElveen................................. 1961-62 Hilman Bowden.................................. 1962-63 Horace A. Andrews............................. 1963-64 James L. Redman................................ 1964-65 Rodney M. Sparkman......................... 1965-66 John L. Ryals....................................... 1966-67 Robert Spooner................................... 1967-68 Vernon E. Ayscue................................ 1968-69 William D. Vernon............................. 1969-70 Jack T. GIbbs, Jr.................................. 1970-71 Gerald Hooker.................................... 1971-72 James Farmer....................................... 1972-73 Alfred E. Berry.................................... 1973-74 J. Myrle Henry.................................... 1974-75 W. Robert Martin................................ 1975-76 E. Robert Lastinger............................. 1976-77 Grady Hutto....................................... 1977-78 Paul B. Causey.................................... 1978-79 Ronald H. Baker................................. 1979-80 James S. Moody, Jr.............................. 1980-81 Bernard Caton.................................... 1981-82 Hubert Alderman................................ 1982-83 Jim Jackson......................................... 1983-84 Ned Butler.......................................... 1984-85

Frank Henderson................................ 1985-86 Dr. Don Humphrey............................ 1986-87 Coleman Davis.................................... 1987-88 Dan Walden........................................ 1988-89 O.C. Whitehead.................................. 1989-90 William Dodson.................................. 1990-91 Gary Boothe........................................ 1991-92 Doyle LaGrone.................................... 1992-93 G. Dean Snyder................................... 1993-94 Robert P. Fulks.................................... 1994-95 Daniel M. Coton................................ 1995-96 Doug Gibbs........................................ 1996-97 David Miles......................................... 1997-98 John Dwyer......................................... 1998-99 Dr. Greg J. Huang.................................... 1999 William P. O’Connor...................... 1999-2000 Judith P. Barta..................................... 2000-01 Timothy W. Shuff............................... 2001-02 Francis Hardee.................................... 2002-03 Lee Williams....................................... 2003-04 Jaime Davis......................................... 2004-05 Stephen Robert................................... 2005-06 Brian West.......................................... 2006-07 Bill Ulbricht............................................. 2007 Michael Cameron................................ 2007-08 Jodi Smith........................................... 2008-09 Charles Harris..................................... 2009-10 Kelleigh Klein................................. 2010-2011

®

Gifts and Other Incentives: The Strawberry Festival will provide: • A crown for the Queen • Banners (sashes) for each of the five finalists • Formal gowns and a wardrobe for each of the five finalists • Trophies for each of the five finalists Scholarships to be Awarded: The Plant City Lions Club will provide a $1,000 scholarship for the 2012 Strawberry Festival Queen

and $250.00 for each of the Court Members. The Florida Strawberry Festival will provide a $1,200 scholarship for the 2012 Queen, a $1,000 scholarship for the First Maid, and an $800 scholarship for each Court member.

Additional Prizes: Lions Club Auxiliary: $250 for Miss Congeniality Queen’s Portrait: Harry Jeffcoat will give the outgoing 2011 Queen a portrait of herself.

cates: $50 for the Queen, $40 for the First Maid, and $25 for each Court Member Sunshine State Federal S&L: Two $200 Savings Bonds for the Queen, a $100 Savings Bond for the First Maid, a $50 Savings Bond for each Court Member Hillsboro Bank: $100 Savings Bond for the Queen and First Maid, $50 Savings Bond for each Court Member

Hardee’s Fashions: Clothing for the flower girls Brown’s Florist: Flowers to the Queen and Court J&G Jewelers: Fine strawberry jewelry for the Queen and Court Members Crescent Jewelers: Fine jewelry for the Queen and Court Members Your Family Jewelers: Fine jewelry for the Queen and Court Members

Simmons Engraving and Monogramming, Inc.: Will donate a trophy for the incoming Queen and a jacket for the outgoing Queen.

YMCA: A year-long membership for the Queen and three months membership for the Court Members

Camellia Rose Tea Room: Christine Alexander tee shirt embellished with Swarovski Crystal strawberries for the Queen and Court Members. The Queen and her Court will be the guests during the annual “Tea with the Queen” teatime event. The Queen will also receive a tin of a special strawberry tea blend named in her honor.

Tip To Toe Salon: Choice of services from the Day Spa or merchandise for the Queen and Court.

Strawberry Accessories Gift Certifi-

Parrish Threads: 2012 Sashes for the Queen, First Maid and Court Members, Tapestry strawberry bag for the Queen and Court

Mango Cleaners: Monthly coupons for dry cleaning for the year of their reign for the Queen and Court Members

Merle Norman Cosmetics of Plant City: $150 Gift for the Queen, $100 for the First Maid and $75 for each Court Member

Platinum Bank: $50 Savings Bond for the First Maid and each Court Member Harrell’s Nursery: Use of plants for the pageant

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PLANT CITY LIONS CLUB Sponsor of the Florida Strawberry Festival® Queens Scholarship Pageant President Gail Lyons Strawberry Queen Pageant Queen Committees General Chairman Kerrie Gafford

The Plant City Lions Club Hard at Work and Hard at Play

Pageant Committee Program Book: Al Berry

Backstage: Jean Ann Davenport, Angie Nierman, Rhonda Miller, Courtney Singletary

Ushers: Bob Fulks (Chairman), Charles Carter, Michael Cameron, David Davenport, Coleman Davis, Bill Dodson, Jeff Dunn, Bill Fritz, Don Humphrey, Tony Jackson, David Miller, Rick Norman, Bill O’Connor, Randy Valdez, Durant Leos

Concessions: FFA - Pam Walden

Photography: Stephanie Humphrey

Back Door Security: Lee Williams, Stoney Burke, Michael Cameron

Communications: Kelleigh Klein

Decorations: Plant City Lions Club Auxiliary

Festival Liaison: Katie Sharer Butson

Dressing Room: Pat Carter, Sue Davis, Nancy Burke, Laurette Valdez, Joyce Fulks, Sylvia Dodson Tickets and Door: Judy Barta, Francis Hardee, Lisa Harris Tucker, Kelleigh Klein, Martha Lastinger Henderson Dance Choreography: Lisa Harris Tucker, Martha Lastinger Henderson

Sound/Lighting: Jay Ballard (Chairman), J.R. Pitts

The Royal Gallery photos courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives

Souvenir Program Book - Sales and Production: In The Field Magazine—Berry Publications, Inc.

Appreciation The Plant City Lions Club takes this opportunity to express its appreciation to the Strawberry Festival Association, the Plant City Area Merchants, and many others in the Plant City area who support the Lions Club in their sponsorship of the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Scholarship Pageant as well as the publication of the Strawberry Festival Souvenir Pro-

The Plant City Lions Club is proud to honor

AUXILIARY MEMBERS in this special section.

gram and other Lions Club projects. Special recognition and thanks are extended to Mr. Paul Davis, Manager of the Florida Strawberry Festival, and members of the Lions Auxiliary for their assistance in staging the Strawberry Queen Pageant.

The

Plant City Lions Club would like to thank

President: Jean Ann Davenport Vice President: Laurette Valdez Treasurer: Nancy Burke Secretary: Rhonda Miller Chaplain: Lois Lastinger Historian: Sylvia Dodson Members Sheryl Boggs Joyce Fulks Angie Nierman Debby O’Connor Teresa Lee Jennifer West Ledgie Alley Nora Hanna Pat Carter Ann Crampton Sue Davis Children’s Court Crown Bearer: Brandon Nielen Train Bearers: Caleb Urra, David Davenport Heralds: Mercy Pritt, Dorothy Deeds Flower Girls: Hope Storter, Lauren Miller We appreciate all the fine work and support in all our projects.

6 Plant City Lions Club

The

Durant High School Plant City High School & Strawberry Crest High School Leo Clubs for their exceptional participation in Lions activities and projects throughout the year.

We are very proud to have you as part of the “LION” Family Plant City Lions Club

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2012 Pageant Contestants & Sponsors Contestant

Sponsor

Page Contestant

2012 Pageant Emcees Sponsor

Page

1 Rebeckah Wellen

Badcock Furniture

14

16 Emily Gonzalez

Dental Associates of Central FL.

29

2 Christina Corzine

Platinum Bank

15

17 Erica Kelley

Uncommon USA

30

3 Jessica Brown

E.W. Simmons Family Farms

16

19 Katlyn Messick

Astin Strawberry Exchange

32

4 Courtney Kitchens

Wish Farms

17

20 Jordan Williams

Tampa Electric

33

5 Chelsea Talavera

Haught Funeral Home

18

21 Chelsea Bowden

Parkesdale Farms

34

6 Lauren Leveson

Jarrett-Scott Ford

19

22 Samantha Farkas

Poppell Insurance

35

7 Isis Ash

Stingray Chevrolet

20

23 Kelsey Fry

Broke & Poor Building Surplus

38

8 Tori Shepherd

Hillsboro State Bank

21

24 Chelsea Gifford

Gator Ford

39

10 Calli Jo Parker

Sunshine State Federal S&L

23

25 Olivia Higgins

Tip to Toe Day Spa & Gifts

40

11 Jordan Tucker

Camellia Rose Tea Room

24

26 Haley Hayes

Sisters & Company

41

12 Nichole Honaker

Florida Insurance Center

25

27 Haley Ours

Farm Credit

42

13 Kayla Faulk

Morrow Steel

26

28 Rebekah Thorne

Regions Bank

43

14 Ashton Houston

Sparkman Automotive Group

27

29 Amber Carapezza

Red Rose Inn & Suites

15 Hannah Jones

Tractor World

28

36-37

The Florida STrawberry GrowerS aSSociaTion conGraTulaTeS all oF ToniGhT’S conTeSTanTS.

To learn more about Florida strawberries, visit our web site.

WWW.FLASTRAWBERRY.COM OFFice: 813.752.6822 Fax: 813.752.2167

8 Plant City Lions Club

Gail Lyons Gail Lyons is the Vice President at Regions Bank with responsibility for business banking, managing the Plant City Branch, and developing relationships. At Regions she has been a four time winner of the Chairman’s Club Award. She currently serves as President of the Plant City Lions Club and prior to this community leadership role she was 2010 – 2011 Exalted Ruler of the Plant City Elks Lodge 1727. Along with being active in a variety of civic and cultural organizations she was Past President of the Plant City American Business Women Association. Gail is also a Board of Director of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce. She is President of Berry Fine Productions which organizes the Strawberry Parade. Gail proudly worked as a volunteer on numerous committees at the Florida Strawberry Festival for the past 19 years.

Outside of her professional and civic interests, she enjoys hunting, fishing, auto racing, trains, traveling widely and cooking southern traditions. An important aspect of her life is her family and friends. She has one daughter and one grandson (who live here in Plant City) while her two brothers and her father live in South Carolina. She enjoys living in Plant City with her four dogs.

Ruth Shuman Brown Ruth Shuman Brown was crowned Strawberry Queen in 1954. The daughter of strawberry farmers, Foy and Keturah Shuman, Ruth embraced her parents’ Christian faith, commitment to family and community, and Central Florida’s agricultural heritage. “The honor of representing the Plant City community and the strawberry industry as Strawberry Queen was, and still remains to this day, a cherished and unique opportunity,” Ruth said.

Upon graduating from Plant City High School, Ruth attended Florida State University, majoring in English and Speech Education, receiving a degree in 1958. She was active in campus life as a member of Zeta Tau Alpha, Sigma Alpha Eta, a national speech honorary, crowned Sigma Chi Derby Queen, and she performed with the FSU Flying High Circus.

During this time Ruth met the man she would marry, Donald Brown, a graduate of Oklahoma State University. He worked for the United States Department of Agriculture, stationed in the Plant City area.

In December of 1958, Ruth and Don were married and they eventually made their home in Plant City. Involved in both their church and community, they supported the Strawberry Festival as volunteers for various events. By 1969, they had two daughters, Leslie and Beckie, and Ruth had completed her Master of Arts Degree in Counselor Education at the University of South Florida.

In 1972, she became head of PCHS’s Guidance Services Department.

During her tenure, Ruth made significant contributions to the lives of the many young people who came through her office. In 1986, she led the way to establishing the first Senior High Guidance Council in Hillsborough County, and was elected the council’s first president. She served on the Principal’s Administrative staff, and was recognized by the Business and Professional Women’s Club as a Woman of Achievement. In 1994, she was named University of South Florida’s “Outstanding Alumnus of the Year” by the local Alumni Club. Ruth was also instrumental in creating the first Alternative Education Program in Hillsborough County for at-risk students. Ruth retired in 1994.

After a lengthy illness, Don passed away in November of 2009. “Life without him has been a difficult adjustment,” she admits, “But, I have many wonderful memories, including a 50th wedding anniversary celebration we shared with our family and friends.” She and Don were married 51 years.

Today, two young grandsons, Ry and Caleb, are the center of Ruth’s focus, along with family and friends. She is active in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Plant City, and remains involved in the community. “I am especially honored to have been selected, with my daughter Beckie, as an emcee of the 2012 Strawberry Festival Queen’s Pageant. The Strawberry Festival and the Queen’s pageant are two of Plant City’s most wonderful traditions.”

Beckie Brown Klein Beckie Klein, formerly known as Beckie Brown and the 1987 Plant City Strawberry Queen, graduated from Plant City High School in 1987 and earned an AA degree from Hillsborough Community College before she began her modeling career with Ford Models, which moved her to New York City to live and work as a fashion model. Soon after, she joined Elite Models and moved to Paris and worked throughout Europe for magazines such as Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire. After 10 years of modeling and commercial work, Beckie settled in NYC and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a journalism degree from Columbia University. She combined her passions and began writing for American Photo, Surface and Blackbook Photography among other international art and photography magazines. Today, Beckie is a wife, mother of two and co-founder of “The Re-Stylists,” which she created in 2009 with former model and long time friend Martina Gordon.

Together they change the lives of women every day with their fashion experience and insights.

Beckie continues to live in NYC in Tribeca with her husband Keith and their sons Ry and Caleb.

Plant City Lions Club

9

The Florida Strawberry Festival 2012 Growing Sweet Memories

ALWAYS HERE FOR OUR COMMUNITY Y membership is now more affordable than ever. Introducing Plant City

Select – a customized membership option with access to all the amenities and services the Plant City Y has to offer at greatly reduced monthly fees.

Save BIG with Plant City Select!

• Family memberships from $69 a month.

• Adult memberships (ages 30-61) are $41 a month.

• Young adult memberships (age 20-29) are $35 a month.

• Senior adult memberships (age 62+) are $35 a month.

• Senior couple memberships (age 62+) are $60 a month.

Visit www.tampaymca.org/plantcityselect for more info.

Come park at the Y for the Strawberry Festival!

We’re close to the Festival entrance, just behind the new Agriculture Building. Proceeds benefit the Plant City Family YMCA.

W. Risk St.

92

Tomlin Middle School

Y PARKING

Woodwrow Wilson St.

10 Plant City Lions Club

proud to honor the men and women in the community who were willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice.

The Festival has recently constructed the Evelyn and Batista Madonia Sr., Agricultural Show Center. This ag show center will be used for agricultural events during the Festival while also providing available space for rent for off season events. There is a great need for this facility in the Plant City area and the Festival is honored to provide this to the community.

Beginning in 2010, the Festival began renting its grounds to the public in order to provide available facilities to the community.

The Festival does, however, continue to donate its facilities throughout the year to support such events as the annual Law Enforcement Appreciation Banquet, the Chamber’s New Teacher Coffee and Diamonds and Denim just to name a few.

The Florida Strawberry Festival employs 22 full time employees year round and increases to nearly 500 staff members during the 11 day Festival. The administrative staff members along with each of the seasonal employees return year after year as they relish the opportunity to take part in the magical atmosphere that the Festival brings to the Plant City Community.

Steeped in tradition, the Florida Strawberry Festival is alive with volunteer spirit, uniting people from all parts of Plant City, Florida and the surrounding areas. Because of their love for this community, more than 2,500 volunteers and 30 board members devote countless hours to the success of the Festival.

It is the hard work and dedication of this community that makes the Florida Strawberry Festival a success. Each year the Festival holds a dinner in honor of these volunteers in order to show our sincere appreciation for the dedication and service they have given to the success of the event.

Due to the support of the local community, volunteers and dedicated patrons, the Florida Strawberry Festival has been named as one of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society. The Festival has also been named as a Blue Ribbon Fair by the Florida Federation of Fairs for the third consecutive year and is the recipient of the 2011 CMUS “Talk of the Town” award for excellence in customer satisfaction.

Think back to your first concert, that delicious strawberry shortcake or the many laughs you had with friends and family on the midway. This year the theme was chosen to reflect on the many memories that have been made through the years. Join us this year to make new memories as we have an outstanding headline entertainment line-up, competitive contests, youth events, free on-grounds entertainment, thrilling rides, and of course delicious strawberries. So come out and make new memories with us!

In addition to the 24 headline acts that will be featured on the Wish Farm Soundstage, the 77th Annual Festival will include a flavorful assortment of free family-oriented daily acts, over 80 thrilling rides on the Belle City Amusement Midway, nearly 400 vendors, exhibitors and food concessions and special days and discounts.

Make plans now and mark your calendars for the 77th annual Florida Strawberry Festival, March 1-11, 2012 where we will be “Growing Sweet Memories” in beautiful Plant City, Florida. Please follow the Florida Strawberry Festival at www.flstrawberryfestival. com, Facebook and Twitter, or call 813-752-9194 for further details.

N. Edwards St.

The Florida Strawberry Festival began planting its roots in 1930 when the newly formed Plant City Lions Club conceived the idea to create a celebration showcasing the bountiful strawberry harvest.

Over the past 77 years, the Festival has been a major economic contributor to the Plant City Community while also providing educational opportunities for local youth.

The Florida Strawberry Festival is primarily an agricultural fair, formed for a community celebration. Our founding principles continue to be the guiding purpose of our Festival while we strive to enrich the lives of thousands of our area youth. We find our youth to be our most precious resource and support higher education by providing agricultural organizational programs that benefit students financially. Students learn the value of hard work and dedication all while investing in their futures. Over the last two years, more than 5,800 students participated in competitive and agricultural contests at the Florida Strawberry Festival of which 1,600 students received more than $1,200,000 in funding through premium awards, scholarships and sales.

Each year, the Festival is proud to award $20,000 to the University of Florida Gulf Coast Research and Education Center. Funds are used to help growers increase productivity of their crops. This year, the funds were used to perform research on better alternatives to water usage during the winter months to protect crops.

Alternatives such as sprayed foam and thermal blankets were tested on a number of crops within the area.

In 2010, American Heroes Day was established at the Festival as a way to pay tribute to the men and women around the world who risk their lives on a daily basis to keep us safe and free. The Festival is proud to honor the men and women who are willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice by offering free admission to all active, reserve, retired military, veterans, law enforcement and first responders with a valid ID. While all American Heroes are honored, the Festival pays special tribute to Hillsborough County families who lost a loved one in the line of duty. A special presentation is given on the Wish Farms Soundstage before the 3:30 pm concert by the Commander of MacDill Air Force Base. Each of the families who lost a loved one are given the opportunity to spend the afternoon enjoying many of the Festival events and riding rides on the midway before a tribute ceremony in the Neighborhood Village. Neighborhood Village Chairman, Betty Lucas and volunteers make beautiful quilted flags that are monogrammed with the name of each Hero. During the tribute ceremony each family is given the handcrafted flag as well as a plaque that displays a photo of the Hero and the American Eagle.

The Festival works with many non-profit organizations, service clubs, churches and FFA chapters in Hillsborough County to help raise money for their organizations. This past year the Festival allowed the FFA Federation to sell bottled water during the Festival and raised a total of $4,688.50. The Plant City YMCA helped park cars during the 11 day event and collected $7,570 due to their efforts. The Festival Management, Staff and Board of Directors also participated in the 2011 Relay for Life at Plant City High School where more than $3,200 was raised to help find a cure for cancer.

In 2011, the Festival Board of Directors proudly approved a donation of $10,000 to the Plant City Veterans Memorial located in Downtown Plant City. The Festival Staff and Board of Directors are

W. Cleveland St. AG BUILDING

W. Oak Ave. TE GA 15 #

FESTIVAL

PLANT CITY FAMILY YMCA • 1507 YMCA Place • Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.757.6677 • www.tampaymca.org Plant City Lions Club 11

Welcome to the 77th Annual

Florida Strawberry Festival®, Inc. “A Corporation Not For Profit... For Progress”

The Florida Strawberry Festival, Inc. is not operated for profit. It serves the useful purpose of developing the Agricultural, Educational, Livestock, Cultural, Commercial, and Industrial resources of this county.

This Corporation is a Member of the Following Associations Florida Federation of Fairs National Independent Concessionaires Associations Country Music Association Plant City Chamber of Commerce International Association of Fairs & Expositions Brandon Chamber of Commerce Florida Festivals and Events Association

2012 Officers

Ronald E. Gainey PRESIDENT

General Manager

Jim Jeffries

VICE PRESIDENT

Dan Walden SECRETARY

Sandee Parke Systma TREASURER

Paul Davis

GENERAL MANAGER

Directors

Terry O. Ballard

Ken Lucas

Al Berry

Gary Boothe

Hilman Bowden

Daniel Coton

Floyd Hall

Dub McGinnes, Jr.

Joe Newsome

Kenneth Peace

Michael S. Sparkman

David Sullivan

Associate Directors Directors Emeriti

Member Emeritus

Renita Boles Dr. Michael Salvato Doug Driggers Chris Sparkman William Keel Kay Varnum Andrew Knotts Phillip Waldron Rick Lott Pamela Warnock David Miles Lane Wetherington Jon Poppell Danny Wilkes 12 Plant City Lions Club

Carl Carpenter, Jr.

Bruce Galloway Johnny Dean Page Evelyn Oszmianski Ray (Rolly) Rollyson, Jr. B.M. (Mac) Smith, Jr. Robert Trinkle William Vernon

General Manager Emeriti Kenneth Cassels, CFE

Patsy Brooks, CFE

Our Queen Looks Back A man named Francois once said, “A true friend is the greatest of all blessings.” Despite how scared I was at this time last year, God stepped in and quickly opened my eyes to how much support would be coming my way. I wasn’t taking on this responsibility on my own.

I had new friends all around me that were gunning for my success during my journey as the 2011 Strawberry Festival Queen.

Mrs. Deanna Rollyson, thank you for your strong personality and your many incredible skills. I would have been a mess without your training, and a nervous wreck without your love and support.

You made me feel proud of myself and for that I cannot thank you enough.

Mrs. Sandee, our Strawberry Mom and the Queen of All Queens, you are a truly unique person. Thank you for making the Queen Pageant a representation of honor, grace, and service. The Court and I love you and cherished every laugh and even every serious moment we had with you. Thank you (and Mr. Hank!) for being an amazing example of love and sacrifice. You are the foundation that supported me on many days when I wasn’t sure I was fit for this position To the Strawberry Festival and Directors, every single one of you made me feel welcomed and loved. I will miss y’alls hugs, smiles and words of wisdom. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. To The Lions Club and all Volunteers, thank you for keeping the Strawberry Queen pageant going strong and giving young women this awesome opportunity.

Victoria Garren, Summer Norris, Taelor Highland, and Kori Lane, this year would have been incomplete without you girls. I love you all so much. To our First Maid, Victoria, You brightened up every event and could even make me laugh through my tears on those days when I was being a little dramatic. I’m so glad I got to experience this with you and build a new friendship from our old one. Summer, I would have had some major bad hair days without you. You saved me from those countless times. You’re a beautiful Christian woman and you’ll be an amazing wife. Taelor, I love your spunk and we got along so well because of it. I swear it only took one look and I would know what you were thinking. I’ll miss those moments. Kori, the girl that I thought was quiet turned out to be the one that always kept us giggling. You have a smile that is contagious.

I enjoyed every minute I was able to spend with you.

To My Family, thank you for putting up with my scattered brain and crazy schedule over this past year. You all have become my best friends, especially you Daddy. I love you more than you know.

To all of Plant City, I am honored that I was able to represent you and I am so grateful for the smiles and words of affirmation that I received throughout the year. All five of us girls are beyond thankful that we were able to meet so many new people. We can only hope that we were able to give back at least a fraction of what you blessed us with. I am so proud to live in this town and I could never forget this experience.

God, you have blessed me immensely. Through this opportunity, you taught me that true beauty comes from one’s heart and not from a shiny crown or bright red lipstick…although that part was pretty fun, too! As we all move into the next stages of our lives, please remind us of the people that have been our foundation and help us to love others the way we have been loved this past year.

Gratefully Yours,

Victoria Watkins

Plant City Lions Club 13

Rebeckah Wellen, Contestant 1

• Parents are Bob & Cathy Wellen • Junior at Seffner Christian Academy - 1st in Class • President of the Debate Club, Sings in School Choir & Ensemble • Member of Nativity Catholic Church, Sings in the Praise Band • Starter in the 2011 Regional Champion 2011 Lady Crusaders Basketball Team • Hobbies include playing the guitar, writing poetry, riding horses & painting

Sponsored by Platinum Bank

Wishing Rebeckah Wellen the best of luck in the 77th Annual Florida Strawberry Pageant and in all her future endeavors!

Christina Corzine, Contestant 2

Sponsored by Badcock Home Furniture & More LOCAL OWNERS LOCAL DECISIONS

Best of Luck to Christina Corzine in the Strawberry Festival Queen’s Contest!

• Parents are Renee & Don Corzine • Involved in Cross-Country and Track at school, Member of National Honor Society, Youth Alive Club, Skills USA & Cosmo Club • Plays the cello; Leads the Children’s Ministry at her church • Volunteers at the Pregnancy Care Center • Plans to attend Trevecca Nazarene University to major in Psychology and minor in Children’s Ministry • Plans to become a child psychologist

Plant City Office | 1804 James L. Redman Pkwy. | Plant City, FL 33563 Telephone (813) 659-1234 | Fax (813) 659-9134 Other Locations: Brandon, Lakeland, Tampa, & Winter Haven

furniture • appliances floor coverings • home entertainment Proudly serving our community for over 75 years. Home owned and operated. Come visit us at one of Coleman Davis’ three locations.

Serving East Hillsborough & Pasco Counties

703 S Evers St Plant City, FL (813) 754-3547 14 Plant City Lions Club

14009 7th St Dade City, FL (352) 567-3322

5500 6th St Zephyrhills, FL (813) 782-4370

Lobby Hours: Monday - Thursday 9am-4pm Friday 9am-6pm Drive Thru Hours: Monday - Friday 8am-6pm 24 hour ATM in the Drive Thru www.platinumbank.com Plant City Lions Club 15

Jessica Brown, Contestant 3

Sponsored by Wish Farms

Best Wishes in the Pageant, Jessica!

E.W. SIMMONS FAMILY FARMS

It’s all about Family!

Fresh strawberries from our family farm to your family’s table.

• Parents are Kenny & Denise Brown • Junior at Plant City High School • Member of Plant City High School’s Cheerleading Squad, FFA and National Honor Society • Hobbies include mentoring young cheerleaders, saltwater fishing and spending time with her loved ones • Plans to pursue a degree in Agriculture at UF • Member of Plant City’s First Baptist Church Youth Group

5112 South Mud Lake Road Plant City, Florida 33567

813-478-9312

Courtney Kitchens, Contestant 4

Sponsored by E.W. Simmons Family Farms

Wish Farms, founded in 1922, is the largest strawberry grower and shipper in Florida and has been for over 50 years. Nationally recognized for quality and innovation, Wish Farms is a year round supplier of strawberries, blueberries and a variety of vegetables representing over 2,000 acres.

Scan this code to learn more about Wish Farms and “like” us on Facebook for exclusive articles, videos, sweepstakes and more!

Wish Farms is proud to sponsor the 2012 Florida Strawberry Festival Sound Stage.

We want to wish all of the Strawberry Queen contestants much luck!

For more information about Wish Farms, please visit www.wishfarms.com or www.facebook.com/wishfarms

• Parents are Toni & John Kitchens • Junior at Plant City High School • Member of Future Business Leaders of America & Youth Alive • Member of Bell Shoals Baptist Church • Hobbies include online shopping, reading and writing poetry, and watching old movies • Plans to pursue a degree in Computer Engineering at USF

W O R G E W “ Y R E V E TH BEST ” S E I R R E B

16 Plant City Lions Club

Plant City Lions Club 17

Chelsea Talavera, Contestant 5

Sponsored by Jarrett-Scott Ford

Lauren Leveson, Contestant 6

Sponsored by Haught Funeral Home

We are proud to sponsor

Lauren Leveson.

Good luck from all of us at Jarrett-Scott Ford.

• Parents are Bobby & Angela Talavera and Deanna & Scott WIlliford • Junior at Plant City High School, Member of National Honor Society, Junior Class Reporter, Student Council and a Varsity Cheerleader • Member of Plant City’s First Baptist Church Youth Group • Hobbies include reading, teaching the 3-year olds’ Sunday School class, cheerleading and spending time with her family • Plans to pursue a degree in Secondary Education to become a high school English teacher

• Parents are Lawrence Leveson & Dawn Blankenship • Graduate of Durant High School, Freshman at HCC • Volunteers as an elementary school tutor • Member of Turkey Creek First Baptist Church of Plant City • Hobbies include traveling, shopping and outdoor activities • Plans to pursue a degree in Sonography and specialize in Obstetrics

Serving Plant City and East Hillsborough County

813-717-9300

708 W. Dr. M.L. King Jr. Blvd. • Plant City Fl. 33563 www.haughtfuneralhome.com

For over eleven years Haught Funeral Home has been your family owned and operated choice in Plant City. If your need is for cremation or burial, we are here to serve you and your family.

KATHERINE, DAVID & CYNTHIA WOLF

TIM & JO HAUGHT

2000 E. Baker Street | 813-752-4171 | jarrettscottford.com Plant City Lions Club 19

Isis Ash, Contestant 7

Sponsored by Hillsboro State Bank

Tori Shepherd, Contestant 8

Sponsored by Stingray Chevrolet

Hillsboro BANK

Hillsboro Bank is proud to sponsor Tori Shepherd.

• Parents are Lyndi Mulder & Harold Ash • Senior at Plant City High School, Senior Class Secretary and Student Council Member • Co-founder of Special Olympics Tennis Program at PCHS • Member of National French Honor Society and Interact Service Club • Enjoys playing tennis with her grandmother and participating in theatre • Plans to pursue a Pre-Medical degree at the University of Florida • Passionate volunteer for the Florida Blood Services of Plant City

• Parents are Kari & Brian Shepherd • Freshman at Hillsborough Community College • Member of Welcome Baptist Church • Plans to pursue a degree in Nursing at the University of South Florida • Volunteers as a 3rd grade tutor at Robinson Elementary • Works at Southside Farm Supply • Hobbies include singing in choir at church, helping with the youth at church and tutoring children

509 West Alexander St., Plant City (across from Plant City High School)

Come and bank with your friends and neighbors

813-707-6506

VISIT OUR VALRICO LOCATION!

1016 Bloomingdale Ave. • Valrico, FL 33596 Tel: 813-657-8989

20 Plant City Lions Club

We offer Zoom Teeth Whitening–The Whitening of the Stars and Extreme Makeover!

Personalized attention nice Family atmosPhere

Calli Jo Parker, Contestant 10

Sponsored by Sunshine State Federal Savings

Hoping all of your strawberry dreams come true, Calli Jo Parker

We see children 5 and up. most insurance accePted new Patients welcome

• General Family Dentistry • Crowns & Bridges • Cosmetic Bonding & Veneers • Implant Restorative Dentistry • Dentures & Partials

We Provide All Features of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Ray Gutierrez, DMD Sarah Deeds, DMD

(813) 752-3030 512 E. Alexander Street Walden Woods Shopping Center Near Publix and CVS

• Parents are Kenneth & Dee Parker • Freshman at Hillsborough Community College, Officer of the University of Florida’s Collegiate FFA Chapter • Member of Welcome Baptist Church & Sydney First Church of God • Ambassador for the Florida Strawberry Growers Association • Advisor of Sydney Stampede 4H Group, Coach for local middle school FFA Contests • In her free time she enjoys reading her Bible, learning more about God’s Word, baking, and making memories with family and friends • Plans to major in Agricultural Communications at the University of Florida

AND LOAN ASSOCIATION

Main Office

Walden Woods

102 W. Baker St. | Plant City

2400 Jim Redman Pkwy. | Plant City

813-752-6193

813-754-1844

Your Hometown Financial Institution Since 1954 Plant City Lions Club 23

Jordan Tucker, Contestant 11

Sponsored by Florida Insurance Center

Nichole Honaker, Contestant 12

Sponsored by Camellia Rose Tea Room & Boutique

414 N. ALEXANDER ST. PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813-754-3561 FAX: 813-764-8402

WWW.FLORIDAINSURANCECENTER.COM

Plant City’s Shopping & Dining Destination Our gift shop is filled with

• Parents are Craig & Stacy Tucker • Senior at Plant City High School, Member of SADD, FFA & involved with Plant City FFA Alumni • Plans to attend Hillsborough Community College to pursue a degree in Elementary Education • Hobbies include spending time with her family, going deep sea fishing, eating and finding a good shoe sale

Apparel • Jewelry Unique Gifts • Home Decor Afternoon Tea • Lunch • Specialty Teas • Coffees • Pastries

For over 30 years, our staff at Florida Insurance Center has become more than just an organization of professionals – we are a family. In turn, we treat our customers as if they are a part of that very same close-knit group of individuals.

We at Florida Insurance Center, Inc. are dedicated to building and maintaining positive relationships with every customer we encounter, and tailoring their services to best fit the unique needs of each client and business.

As a full-service insurance agency, you can rest assured that you will receive the best representation available and prompt compensation when a loss occurs.

When it comes to peace of mind for your dwelling, no coverage is too small. We have made it our personal responsibility to secure your home and everything you care about inside.

Small enough to provide the service you want…

Big enough to give you the protection you need.

• Parents are Wendy & David Howell and Billy Honaker • Junior at Durant High School • Member of Durant FFA, participating in past swine and steer projects • Volunteers with church youth group at River of Life Christian Center • Hobbies include hunting, fishing with her family and shopping with her mom and girlfriends • Plans to pursue a degree in Elementary Education at Southeastern University and to become a Kindergarten teacher

We are thrilled to be your sponsor, Jordan...

Cheers & Best Wishes!

Tea and Gifts Fit for a Queen

Celebrate These Great Events With Us! Mystery Tea Party Summer Victorian Fashions Teatime

CRBFF

FRIENDS FOREVER

Be Our Facebook Friend

Call us for details and reservations.

120 North Collins Street • Plant City, FL 33563

813.659.TCUP (8287) • www.CamelliaRose.com

Birthday Celebrations, Bridal & Baby Showers, Church Events, Business & Civic Group Meetings

Plant City Lions Club 25

Kayla Faulk, Contestant 13

Sponsored by Sparkman Automotive Group

Ashton Houston, Contestant 14

Sponsored by Morrow Steel

The Sparkman Family is proud to sponsor

Ashton Houston in the 77th Florida Strawberry Festival® Queen’s Scholarship Pageant.

2012 Chevrolet Corvette

• Parents are Shannon & Travis Houston • Senior at Strawberry Crest High School • Member of the National Honor Society and National Beta Club • Served as FFA President and Reporter • Hobbies include, piano, decorating cakes, time with friends, family, fishing with her Papa.

• Plans to pursue a degree in business at the University of South Florida

• Parents are Kelly & Michael Mullis • Senior at Plant City High School, Member of the National Honor Society and Civinettes Club • Hobbies include playing guitar, photography, scrapbooking and traveling • Plans to attend University of Central Florida, majoring in Arts to be a photographer.

26 Plant City Lions Club

www.BartowChevrolet.com

www.SparkmanChevrolet.com

1475 W Main St. Bartow, FL 33830

36822 SR 54 Zephyrhills, FL 33541

(863) 533-0777 (813) 782-1538

Plant City Lions Club 27

Hannah Jones, Contestant 15

Sponsored by Dental Associates of Central FL

Emily Gonzalez, Contestant 16

Sponsored by Tractor World

Stop by and visit with us.

We’re looking forward to seeing you!

Forty-three years of serving you in equipment sales

• Parents are Rusty & Kathy Jones • Senior at Plant City High School • Active in the PCHS Drama Department • Member of the National Honor Society • Hobbies include acting and surfing with her dad • Plans to become a Federal Air Marshal

Specializing in Construction Equipment

• Parents are Steve & Kim Gonzalez • Junior at Durant High School • Member of the Durant Junior Council • Is a student leader at her youth group at Victory Worship Center • Plans to attend HCC and then further her education at the University of South Florida • Has gone to state twice with FFA for Ornamental Horticulture

Tractor World, Inc. Construction Equipment Sales 2410 US Hwy 92 E • Plant City, FL 33566 Ph: (813) 659-9523 • Fax: (813) 659-3716 And a special thanks from all of us!

JW Fulwood, Owner John Helton, Sales

Plant City Lions Club 29

Sponsored by Fred’s Southern Kitchen

The Pageant Emcees

Erica Kelley, Contestant 17

Sponsored by Uncommon USA

Pageant Emcees Gail Lyons, President of the Plant City Lions Club

The Manufacturers The Manufacturers The Manufacturers theOriginal Original ofofofthe the Original Telescoping Flagpole Telescoping Flagpole The Manufacturers Telescoping Flagpole

Ruth Shuman Brown, 1954 Plant City Strawberry Queen Beckie Brown Klein, 1987 Plant City Strawberry Queen

• Parents are Colin & Nancy Kelley • Graduate of Durant High School, currently a freshman at HCC • Is a photographer assistant for Photography Blu • Plans to pursue a degree in Business Management • Future goal is to open a couture pageant gown store in Plant City

of the Original Telescoping Flagpole

Flags Banners Flagpoles Flags Banners Flagpoles Flags Banners Flagpoles Flags Banners Flagpoles 1-800-419-5880

1-800-419-5880 1-800-419-5880 1-800-419-5880 WWW.UNCOMMONUSA.COM WWW.UNCOMMONUSA.COM WWW.UNCOMMONUSA.COM

Largo, FL Lombard, IL

Phoenix, AZ Willmar, MN

WWW.UNCOMMONUSA.COM Specialists in Custom Made

Largo,FLFL Phoenix, Phoenix,AZ AZ Largo, Largo, FL Phoenix, AZ Lombard,ILIL Willmar,MN MN Lombard, Lombard, IL Willmar, Willmar, MN Flags and Banners

SpecialistsininCustom CustomMade Made Specialists Specialists in Custom Flagsand andBanners Banners Made Flags Flags and Banners

30 Plant City Lions Club

Visit our booth in the Boring Building Booth #263 or New Expo Building Booth #299c and receive a special discount on your flagpole purchase.

Visit our our booth booth in the Visit our booth in #263 the or BoringVisit Building Booth Boring Building Booth Boring #263 or New ExpoBuilding BuildingBooth New Expo Building Booth #299c New Expo aBuilding Booth #299c and receive a special special discount and receive on andyour receive a special discount your flagpole flagpole purchase. purchase. on your flagpole purchase.

Plant City Lions Club 31

Katlyn Messick, Contestant 19

Sponsored by Tampa Electric Company

Astin Strawberry Exchange is pleased to sponsor Katlyn Messick in the 2012 Strawberry Festival Queen’s Pageant.

• Parents are Ted & Jimberly Messick • Freshman at the University of Central Florida, Member of UCF’s Women’s Club Volleyball, Chi-alpha, Cru & Calvary Fellowship A.G. • Majoring in Physical Therapy and plans to own a private practice for injured athletes • Loves running, playing beach volleyball, ping pong, spending time with family and friends • Serves community through organizations such as Angel Tree Association

Jordan Williams, Contestant 20

Sponsored by Astin Strawberry Exchange

TAMPA ELECTRIC COMPANY

Proudly Serving the Plant City Community

Tampa Electric has supplied the Tampa Bay area with electricity since 1899.

Its West Central Florida service area covers 2.000 square miles, including all of Hillsborough County and parts of Polk, Pasco and Pinellas counties.

• Parents are Jerrold & Julia Williams • Junior Graduate at Durant High School, Member of varsity flag football team, FFA & Junior Civitan • Competes at the Florida Strawberry Festival Steer Show • Hobbies include shopping, cheerleading, and training her cousin for pageants • Plans to obtain a degree in Dentistry from the University of South Florida

LEADERS IN THE FLORIDA STRAWBERRY INDUSTRY

Good Luck To All The 2012 Strawberry Queen Contestants 813-650-8448 32 Plant City Lions Club

Plant City Lions Club 33

Chelsea Bowden, Contestant 21

• Parents are Bud & Pam Bowden • Senior at Durant High School • Captain of the Varsity Volleyball Team • Member of Leo Club, Student Government & National Honor Society • Hobbies include shopping, swimming and dancing • Plans to pursue a degree in Nursing at a four-year university

Cover your dreams...

You’re Right...

It DOESN’T Get Any Sweeter Than This!

813-752-0502 3702 W. Baker Street • Plant City, FL www.parkesdale.com Open 7 days 9am-6pm

Sponsored by Poppell Insurance

Samantha Farkas, Contestant 22

Sponsored by Parkesdale Farms

We’re here for you 24/7 to help make your dreams come true.

Ask us about our

!

• Parents are George & Lisa Farkas • Graduate of Durant High School, currently enrolled at Hillsborough Community College • Member of the Turkey Creek First Baptist College and Career Ministry • Hobbies include baking, quilting, and spending time with my family and friends • Volunteer for the United Food Bank of Plant City • Career goal is to become a Neonatal Nurse after obtaining a B.S.N. in nursing from USF

503 W Dr Martin Luther King Jr. | Plant City, FL 33563

(813) 752-4155

34 Plant City Lions Club

Plant City Lions Club 35

Amber Carapezza, Contestant 29

Sponsored by Red Rose Inn & Suites

• Parents are Jimmy & Annie Carapezza • Graduate of Plant City High School • Sophomore at Hillsborough Community College • Competes in equestrian show jumping • Plans to pursue a degree to become a Veterinary Technician • Volunteers in the High Heel Hike promoting autism awareness

Kelsey Fry, Contestant 23

• Parents are Glenn & Kendra Harrell • Junior at Plant City High School, an honor roll student, Member of the Senior Chapter, FFA Parliamentary Procedure team, the National Honor Society, Civinettes and Best Buddies Club • Hobbies include swimming competitively, participating in speech competitions, attending First Baptist of Plant City and working on her community service project, “Facebook for Seniors” • Plans to pursue a degree in marketing at the University of Florida

IN BUSINESS NOW FOR OVER 15 YEARS

Sponsored by Gator Ford

Broke & Poor wishes Kelsey Fry the best in her quest for 2012’s Strawberry Festival Queen!

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

NEW, USED AND ABUSED!

HOME & MOBILE HOME SUPPLIES • Code Approved Windows • Window Rooms • Screen Rooms • Carports • Awnings • Wood Paneling • Steps • Alcoa® Vinyl Siding • Skirting • Doors (Interior & Exterior)

752-3378

813

OPEN SATURDAYS 8:30-5:00

38 Plant City Lions Club

• Roof Overs • Metal Roofing • Shower Stalls • Complete Line of Plumbing • Trim Moulding • Vanities • Kitchen Cabinets • Antiques • Stepping Stones/Pavers

2670 Hwy. 92 E Plant City, FL

(Between Lakeland and Plant City) www.brokeandpoorpc@aol.com

Chelsea Gifford, Contestant 24

Sponsored by Broke & Poor Building Surplus

• Parents are Angie Matthews & Robert Campanile • Graduate of Plant City High School • Currently attending Erwin Technical Center for Dental Assisting • Calendar Girl 2010 Miss November PCHS • Plans to pursue a degree in Public Health at USF • Attended Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Olivia Higgins, Contestant 25

• Parents are Barrett & Stephanie Higgins • A Home-Schooled Senior • Dual-enrolled at Hillsborough Community College • Member of Phi Theta Kappa, Youth in Government • Hobbies include swimming, attending her younger sister’s softball games and volunteering at church • Plans to attend USF to pursue a degree in Education and a Masters degree in English

Sponsored by Sisters & Company Boutique

Haley Hayes, Contestant 26

Sponsored by Tip to Toe Day Spa & Gifts

Serving Royalty Since 1992 Cosmetics • Hair • Nails • Skin

Fabulous Treasures

Gift Certificates Available www.tiptotoeplantcity.com 101 South Alexander Street

813-759-8637

2011 Strawberry Queen & Court

• Parents are Lisa & Casey Hardee and Andrea & Joe Hayes • Senior at Plant City High School, Member of the Plant City High School tennis team, a Buccaneers Student Ambassador, President of the Civinettes, Historian of Students Against Destructive Decisions and a member of the National Honor Society • Member of Plant City’s First Baptist Church • Plans to pursue a degree in Political Science at the University of Central Florida followed by law school.

• Hobbies include reading, playing tennis, going to church and traveling with family

straw·ber·ry (strô'běr'ē) queen (kwēn) n.

A girl who reigns supreme in strawberry apparel and accessories from Sisters & Company

Fabulous Gifts • Beautiful Accessories • Clothes You’ll Love 104 E. Reynolds St. • Historic Plant City 813.754.0990 www.sistersboutiques.com

Haley Elizabeth Ours, Contestant 27

Sponsored by Regions Bank

Rebekah Thorne, Contestant 28

Sponsored by Farm Credit

Best of Luck, Rebekah Thorne!

• Parents are Greg & Sharon Ours • Senior at Plant City High School • Member of the Student Council, National Honor Society, FFA, and a varsity cheerleader • Hobbies include baking and selling strawberry cookies to raise funds for Relay for Life, participating in the Operation Christmas Child Program, and is very active in promoting seatbelt awareness at school • Plans on attending USF and obtaining a degree in Education

Farm Credit has extended a helping hand to strawberry growers since 1916.

Farm Credit is as passionate about the strawberry industry as you are. Let one of our lenders help you finance your operation.

Give us a call today.

Regions Bank wishes you success as you follow your dream of being the next Florida Strawberry Festival Queen!

• Parents are John & Michelle Hawthorne • Graduate of Plant City High School with Honors, 4.58 GPA • President of Leo Club, Member of National Honor Society, Marching, Concert, and Jazz Bands • As a Junior, won Miss March in the PCHS Calendar Girl Pageant • Works at the Publix Pharmacy and is actively pursuing a career in Pharmacology • Hobbies include studying French, playing bass guitar, trying out new recipes in the kitchen

Simple and reliable has always been a good way to go.

At Regions, you’ll experience banking that’s personal, reliable and secure.

PLANT CITY 2303 Thonotosassa Road Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 659-2165

(813) 719-7341

2301 Thonotosassa Rd. | Plant City, FL 33563

Loans for homes, land, and country living.

www.farmcreditfl.com

MEMBER

FDIC

©2011 Regions Bank |1.800.regions | regions.com

Plant City Lions Club 43

The Royal Gallery

Florida Strawberry Festival® Queens—Past to Present

1952 Arvor Lois Harris

1953 Ruby Jean Barker

1954 Ruth Shuman

1955 Betty Clements

1930 Charlotte Rosenberg

1931 Irvin Wilder

1932 Elizabeth Carey

1933 Christine Walden

1956 Mary Jane Jackson

1957 Linda Potter

1958 Sheila West

1959 Linda Eady

1934 Dorothy Addison

1935 Virginia Moody

1936 Pauline Schulte

1937 Eloise Howell

1960 Betty Jean Cook

1961 Diane O’Callaghan

1962 Marlene Coon

1963 Janice Barnes

1938 Norma Robinson

1939 Faye Mott

1940 Catherine Fletcher

1942 Jane Langford

1964 Georgia Blevins

1965 Sandra Link

1966 Cathy Mascali

1967 Maria Junquera

1949 Peggy Hodges

1950 Etta Mae Helzer

1951 Edwana Snowden

1968 Silvia Azorin

1969 Dee Zoet

1970 Krysta Nifong

1948 Barbara Alley 44 Plant City Lions Club

1971 Sherrie Chambers Plant City Lions Club 45

1972 Linda Scanlon

1973 Phyllis Head

1974 Denise Watts

1975 Sheryl Simmons

1992 Lisa Stanaland

1993 Ashley Brooke Moody

1994 Amy Swilley

1995 Courtney Lee Clark

1976 Martha Lastinger

1977 Karen Owens

1978 Mimi Phillips

1979 Pam Smith

1996 Amy Marie Norman

1997 Stephanie St. Martin

1998 Jessica Eran McDonald

1999 Kayla Sharee Drawdy

1980 Lisa Lynn Harris

1981 Pam Farris

1982 Nancy Lyn Wright

1983 Lisa Johnson

2000 Alison Dianne Archbell

2001 Kellie Ann Hinson

2002 Shannon Davis

2003 Erica Leann Der

1984 Sandra Howard

1985 Kay Denise Newsome

1986 Rebecca Lynn Lewis

1987 Rebecca Sue Brown

2004 Katie Sharer

2005 Ashley Watkins

2006 Hannah Hodge

2007 Summer Pippin

1988 Robyn Cherie Simmons 46 Plant City Lions Club

1989 Kristen Lynn Martinson

1990 JoAnna Lynn Cooper

1991 Stephanie Chesser

2008 Kristen Smith

2009 Lauren Der

2010 Natalie Burgin

2011 Victoria Watkins Plant City Lions Club 47

Prices may vary by location. Please contact your local Zaxby’s for pricing. ®

Zappetizers TaTer ChiPs Thinly sliced fried potatoes with Ranch.

9 sauces

OniOn rinGs Batter-fried onion rings with sauce. sPiCy Fried MushrOOMs Batter-fried mushroom pieces with sauce.

Fried whiTe Cheddar biTes Batter-fried white cheddar cheese pieces with sauce.

Meal dealz

™

Meal Dealz are served with Crinkle Fries and a 22 oz. Beverage. ™

biG ZaX snaK® Meal Chicken Fingerz, Texas Toast and Zax Sauce . ®

buFFalO winGs Meal Wings, celery and Ranch.

ChiCKen FinGer sandwiCh Meal Chicken Fingerz, Zax Sauce and green leaf lettuce on a toasted bun. ®

Grilled ChiCKen sandwiCh Meal Grilled Chicken, honey mustard and green leaf lettuce on a toasted bun.

KiCKin’ ChiCKen sandwiCh Meal Chicken Fingerz, Ranch and Tongue Torch sauce on Texas Toast. ®

nibblerZ Meal ® Our classic Chicken Fingerz, tucked in toasted buns and topped with Zax Sauce ®. bOneless winGs Meal Boneless Wings, celery and Ranch.

Wimpy Original Tongue Torch Nuclear Teriyaki • BBQ • Hot Honey Mustard • Sweet & Spicy ®

®

The hOuse Mixed greens, red cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, roma tomatoes, cheddar and Jack cheese, fried onions, and Chicken Fingerz or grilled chicken, with Texas Toast.

The Caesar Mixed greens, Parmesan cheese, bacon, croutons, and Chicken Fingerz or grilled chicken.

The blue Mixed greens, red cabbage, carrots, roma tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, fried onions, and Buffalo Fingerz or blackened chicken, with Texas Toast. ®

dressings: Ranch, Lite Ranch, Honey Mustard, 1000 Island, Blue Cheese, Honey French, Mediterranean, Caesar, Lite Vinaigrette.

sandwich baskets Sandwich baskets served with Crinkle Fries and pickle spear.

ZaXby’s Club Chicken Fingerz, bacon, green leaf lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise and American cheese on Texas Toast.

Insane

TradiTiOnal Or bOneless winGs Wings are served with celery and Ranch.

5 piece 10 piece 20 piece ChiCKen FinGerZ Chicken Fingerz are served with Zax Sauce ®.

5 piece 10 piece 20 piece buFFalO FinGerZ® Buffalo Fingerz® are served with celery and Ranch.

5 piece 10 piece 20 piece For larger orders, please see our Party Platterz™ menu.

sides & extras The nibbler side salad CrinKle Fries (reG. & lG.) side OF OniOn rinGs side OF Fried whiTe Cheddar biTes TeXas TOasT

basKeT OF TeXas TOasT basKeT OF Celery COle slaw dressinG/sauCe

Zax Kidz

ChiCKen salad sandwiCh Meal All-white-meat chicken on honey wheat bread with lettuce and tomatoes.

Zalads

®

wings & Fingerz

®

Wishes the Best of Luck to the 2012 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Contestants

®

For our guests 10 and under. Includes a surprise and a Kidz drink.

Kiddie FinGer® Fingerz, Crinkle Fries and sauce.

Kiddie Cheese® 1/2 grilled cheese and Crinkle Fries.

KidZ nibbler Nibbler and Crinkle Fries.

desserts Fresh-baKed COOKies MilKshaKes (ChOCOlaTe, vanilla Or sTrawberry)

beverages COCa-COla ® FOunTain drinKs dasani ® iCed Tea MilK, ChOCOlaTe MilK Or aPPle JuiCe

CaJun Club™ Blackened chicken, bacon, green leaf lettuce, tomato, Ranch and American cheese on a toasted bun.

Most Popular ChiCKen FinGer PlaTe Chicken Fingerz, Crinkle Fries, Texas Toast, Cole Slaw and Zax Sauce ®. winGs & ThinGs Wings and Chicken Fingerz, Crinkle Fries, Texas Toast, celery, Ranch and Zax Sauce ®.

Each restaurant independently owned and operated. Pricing may vary by location.

© 2011 Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. “Zaxby’s” is a registered trademark of Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. © 2011 The Coca-Cola Company. “Coca-Cola,” the Contour Bottle design and the Red Disk Icon are trademarks of The Coca-Cola Company.

2901 1/2 James L. Redman Pkwy | 813-752-1971 restaurant | 813-754-1980 fax 48 Plant City Lions Club

10608 Paul Buchman Highway • Plant City, FL 33565 • 813-762-1591 2520 Guy Verger Boulevard • Tampa, FL 33605 • 813-247-5631 www.cfindustries.com

GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE CONTESTANTS

HOPEWELL

Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens www.hopewellfuneral.com 6005 CR 39 South (1/2 mile south of State Rd. 60)

813.737.3128

St. Clement Catholic Church “Make Your Own” Strawberry Shortcake

Proudly Serving Plant City and the Strawberry Festival since 1974!

For Advance Shortcake Tickets

Call 813-757-6479

50 Plant City Lions Club

TO HELP YOU CREATE AN INVESTMENT STRATEGY, WE’LL CONSULT WITH AN EXPERT - YOU. While markets and lifestyles may change, it’s likely your long-term financial goals have not. That’s why it’s so important to take advantage of our free portfolio review at least once every year. Together we’ll assess how changes in your career, aspirations and goals can impact your investments and discuss whether adjustments are necessary to help keep you on track or where you want to be long term.

Call your local Edward Jones financial advisor today to schedule your free review.

Stephen W Shouse, AAMS® Tim Shuff, CFP®, AAMS® Financial Advisor

Financial Advisor

104 N Evers St Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1071

1514 S Alexander St Suite 206 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-9400

www.edwardjones.com Member BIPC

Plant City Lions Club 51

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0 4 9 1 k r la C r e h tc le F e ne eri in th r Cathe a student at Plant City Senior High School, Ca being the While for the honor of oolmates competed wned Queen and and number of her sch en. Catherine was cro ue Q l va sti Fe rry be 1940 Straw well. t year in represented her town ay on March 12 of las aw d sse pa y lad ely always This lov Plant City Catherine in g in liv le hi W s. xa ities, serving as Houston, Te and community activ l va sti Fe e th in e tiv ub, and the Art’s remained ac ’s Club, Woman’s Cl an om W or ni Ju e th orida Strawberry president of st chairman of the Fl fir e th s wa ne eri th e Krewe of Venus Council. Ca o was a member of th als e Sh . ow Sh ion sh Festival Fa re Club. r of the Tampa Cent and a charter membe

Visit our website: www.feltonsmarket.com

Call for Special orders: 813-752-1548

t r u o C & n ee u Q 12 0 2 s n o ti Congratula Walker Plaza, 617 N. Maryland Ave. Plant City, FL 33563 ATM Available at Customer Service. TECO Payments Accepted

Mary Jane Jackson In 1956 Mary Jan

1956

e (Parolini) Jackson, firs t maid of the Festival Queen’s court, filled the unexpired term of Queen Virginia Young. During her reign, the Florida Str awberry Festival and the Plant Ci ty Jaycee’s sent her to Gl en wood Springs, Colorado to co mpete in the National Str aw berry Festival Queen’s Contest.

Mary Jane was selected as Queen from 15 entri es from all over the United States .

52 Plant City Lions Club

12 0 2 the l l a ts! to n k a t c s u e L ont C n e Good ue Q y r r be Straw Located at 1701 W. Baker we have been in continuous business since 1935. in Serv

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f Plant City Lions Club 53

ns

Good Luck 2012 Contestants

da Straw

i

r Past Flo

uee Q ® l a v i est F y r r e b

Ashley Moody

1993

Hillsborough Surveying Inc.

n and sparkling crow

by Erica Der dly wore the stival Queen. Sixtyou pr dy oo ley M rry Fe In 1993, Ashbe as the Florida Strawbe wed a long line of ladieson ro follo e ad cl sh y n, rr king back ga be be w stra e pageant ge of Festival royalty. Looho made the th r te af s ar le w linea three ye ted a unique recall the peop who represen ies, she cannot help but were in the court those memor sweet. l of the girls of my favorite ra ve so se ce at en th ri e expe ake som ate enough “I was fortun st friends. I was able to m Ashley said. s,” e be nd ry ie ve fr y t experience th y deares already m the chance to h some of m memories witthose memories included petitions. it ing Contest, One of ival com rawberry Fest rticipate in the Cow Milk h, all my friends St s ou m fa world a asked to pa cow. Althoug “When I was me I had ever milked a ity girl knows how to milk ti C st nt fir la ry was the ve ouse think that every P t , Ashley wen at the courth said. ing as Queenthe University rv se r te dy af oo , M se cow,” e courthou degree from Speaking of th elor’s, master’s and law ork for Tampa law firm, deral ch w ba to r t e a Fe he en on to earn pon graduation, she w ssociate and later becam her strawA U n ed a. io ad id at tr or ig e it Fl sh L of ce. In 2006, Knight, as a rt Judge Holland and r the U.S. Attorney’s Offi was elected Circuit Cou a judge as e fo sh le or n ro this be whe Prosecut ently serves in r a judge’s ro berry robe foJudicial District. She curr e uralia for thre for the 13th Criminal Division. and Justin D sb hu ny r lo he Fe to e in th en married protecting Ashley has be one son, Connor. al Queen or service that iv st ve Fe ha y ey rr th be w of years and hibited a life next ing as the Stra Whether servdge Moody has always ex Let’s just hope that the d.

Ju , ou ts pr gh ily ri l m ga fa le al iv our e courtroom. rawberry Fest makes her St p into her, it’s not in th m bu time you

Ruby Jean Barker Redman

by Erica Der

Plant City, Florida 813-707-9086 LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED TIMOTHY W. TEW, P.L.S. OWNER/PRESIDENT

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1953

When one thinks of th e Florida Strawberry that are lavished upon her, there are certain pr Festival Queen, and the myriad of gifts izes that always come crown, generous schola to mind, a stunning rsh say a toaster? While tod ips, a beautiful new wardrobe and a toaste r. Did someone just ay’s Queen and Court may not be dreaming appliances from Black about new kitchen and Decker, Ruby Jea n Redman, Queen in to tell.

1953, has a unique sto ry “In the 50s, it was expe cte d th at aft er a young lady gradu would soon become a ated from high schoo hous l she small appliances for my ewife. Therefore, when I was crowned in 1953, I was given home including a toa ste r and a coffee percolat She won the title in 19 or,” Ruby Jean said.

53 after a casual we Festival and an interv iew and evening gown ar competition on the first Monday of the porti on an outdoor stage an d served during her sen on on Thursday night. She was crowned ior year of high schoo Ruby Jean did, in fact, l. use her Strawberry Qu Redman and settling een appliances after ma down in Plant City, bu rrying Jim t first She graduated from Flo rida State University wi she set out to earn her college diploma. tion and went on to tea th a bachelor’s degree in elementary educach elementary school in both Gainesville an Jim and Ruby Jean ha d Plant City. ve th ree daughters, Susan Su Knotts, and nine grand llivan, Pam Bowden an children. Along with d Jeanne spending time with fam Jean stays busy as an act ily and friends, Ruby ive member of Plant Ci the Strawberry Festiva ty’s First Baptist Chur l To ch, Hospital Board of Trus ur Bus Committee and member of the South chairman of tees.

Florida Baptist Ruby Jean has served th e Pla nt City community and well for many, many ye the Strawberry ars when the conversation . And if you ask her about her time as Queen Queen legacy turns to coffee pots an , don’t be surprised d toasters.

54 Plant City Lions Club

“W

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YOUR HOMETOWN PROVIDERS Plant City Lions Club 55

The 2011 Queen and Court

The Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and Court are led by Florida Strawberry Festival Director, Sandee Parke Sytsma, daughter of Helen Parke and the late Roy Parke.

Since 2000 Sandee has devoted her time and talents to the program and her “girls.”

Although she admits that her duties are quite fabulous and fun, it is definitely a year long responsibility to coordinate schedules, outfits and appearances for five different girls, one queen and four court members, between the ages of 16 and 20.

The exciting and busy schedule begins with a Monday morning meeting immediately after the pageant to go over the preFestival events and to start preparation and planning for opening day. Her first instructions are, “always bring your camera, red lipstick, and be ready to have fun!” Wardrobe fittings, shopping trips, luncheons, interviews, and fashion shows kick off everything with a blast. The 2011 Queen and Court began their reign with a whirlwind, all expense paid trip to New York City, with chaperones, to choose their formal wardrobe. The trip, sponsored by Sisters & Company, Hopewell Funeral Home and Crawford Hill Interiors, Inc., was thrilling and captured in photographs by Stephanie Humphrey of Stephanie Humphrey Photography. As the old saying goes, “A good time was had by all.”

Sandee is assisted by Florida Strawberry Festival Associate Director, Kay Newsome Varnum. The 1985 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen helps Co-Direct, while many of the Directors wives assist in chaperoning the girls during the 11day celebration and occasionally throughout the year.

During the Festival you will see the Queen and Court signing cookbooks, attending concerts, visiting vendors, waving in parades, awarding winners, greeting guests and lending a helping hand to contestants in the “All-You-CanEat Shortcake Eating Contest.”

The Queen and Court participate in events and activities after the Festival that include Citizen of the Year Luncheon, Little Miss Plant City, Chamber of Commerce Breakfasts and Ribbon Cuttings, Relay for Life, Junior Royalty, and the Plant City Christmas Parade.

The Queen and Court Coordinator is constantly looking for ways to improve the program while promoting the Festival and increasing exposure that has captured the attention of Good Morning America and The New Yorker Magazine. Above all, it is important to her that the girls represent the Plant City community and the Florida Strawberry Festival in the best way possible while leaving them with a fun and memorable experience.

Through the years, the schedules may change, clothing trends will vary and a different group of girls are guaranteed to come in, but one thing will always remain constant, the friendships and memories that are made with “Ms. Sandee” during their reign.

The growth and success of the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Program can greatly be attributed to a gracious lady that follows behind a big smile (with red lipstick of course), a positive word for everyone and to a wonderful community who supports them both.

56 Plant City Lions Club

1901 Industrial Park Dr. | Plant City, FL | Office: 813-752-4510 | Fax: 813-759-6938

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Laying the groundwork for the new Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. Agriculture Show Arena

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Plant City Lions Club 57

“A

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58 Plant City Lions Club

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Left to Right: Mike Sparkman, Kevin McCloud, Paul Davis, Ron Gainey Project Manager, Kevin McCloud of Don Stine Constuction, turns the new Evelyn and Madonia, Sr. Agriculture Show Center keys over to the to Mike Sparkman, Chairman of the Festival’s Ag Building Committee, Festival Manager, Paul Davis and Strawberry Festival President Ron Gainey.

Since its founding in 1930, the Florida Strawberry Festival has been primarily an agricultural fair, formed to celebrate the bountiful harvest of the strawberry. Our founding principles continue to be the guiding purpose of our Festival while we strive to enrich the lives of thousands of our areas youth. We find our youth to be our most precious resource and support higher education by providing agricultural organizational programs that benefit students financially. Students learn the value of hard work and dedication all while investing in their futures.

For more than 30 years, the Florida Strawberry Festival Board of Directors and Staff have had the vision of building an agricultural center. The purpose of this building would serve as housing for the animals and horticulture, as well as a show arena for students competing in agricultural exhibits during the Festival’s annual event. This vision began taking shape nearly three years ago when the board of directors approved the construction of a multi-purpose agricultural complex. There has been a great need for this facility in the Plant City area and we are excited to see this vision come true.

The main building of this complex is approximately 30,000 square feet of enclosed air-conditioned space. The building will be used for agricultural events during the Festival while also providing available space for off season events. This building has 60 Plant City Lions Club

been named the Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. Agricultural Show Center.

Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. are active members of the Plant City Community. As agriculturists, they also saw the great need for an agricultural center for not only our area youth but for the Plant City Community. In an effort to help fulfill this need, the Madonia’s made a generous contribution which helped to fund the vision that will not only benefit the Florida Strawberry Festival and the Plant City Community but will have a life altering impact on the hundreds of individuals who attend and participate in agricultural events in this facility.

In addition to the Madonia Agricultural Show Center, two pavilions located on the East and West sides are in the planning stages of construction. Ideally, these pavilions will serve as housing for animals and horticulture during the Festival. These state of the art pavilions will include grooming stations for the comfort and convenience of those participating in our shows.

For many of us, the completion of this show center is the culmination of many years of dedicated work. We are proud to be a part of this community and in a small way build fond memories for years to come. From the Staff here at the Florida Strawberry Festival we thank you for being a part of our celebration and for letting us be a part of yours.

Verna McKelvin, Manager

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History of the Grand Stand Concrete Stadium

by Panky Snow In 1954 the Plant City Dad’s Club, The Hillsborough County School Board, The City of Plant City and the Strawberry Festival constructed a football stadium on property belonging to the City of Plant City, which was north of the exhibit hall, now named in honor of Roy and Helen Parke. The stadium was designed to seat 3,600 people.

With bleachers being constructed and the use of folding chairs, there are now approximately 15,500 seats available for entertainment.

The Hillsborough County School Board built another high school for Plant City and needed money to build a stadium on the school grounds. The Festival paid half of the cost of constructing the new stadium for the High School and the Dad’s Club and School Board gave up their rights to the stadium.

In 1985 Festival Director Harry Carlton reported that the City of Plant City would sell its interest in the property where the stadium was last located, the old American Legion Hall, as well as the Milton Hull Armory to the Festival. The purchase was made and the Milton Hull Armory was remodeled and converted into offices for the Strawberry Festival.

62 Plant City Lions Club

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Plant City Lions Club 63

2011 QUEEN & COURT

Great memories that will last forever: << Midway excitement: After all, what’s more fun than riding? The carousel is always a favorite. << Queen Victoria: Radiant royalty! A year I’ll never forget. Truly a dream come true! << Rockin’ the rain boots: Strawberry clad and waterproof... what more can a girl ask for? << Plant City Little League: Opening day for lots of little fingers provided us an opportunity to play a little baseball... well, at least Queen Victoria got to throw out the first pitch. << Hanging out at the Red Barn: We have some real comedians on this Court. We are always cracking each other up.

pageant excitement, photo shoots, new york city, shopping, gorgeous gowns, cute outfits, red lipstick, the palace, mrs. sandee, concerts, parades, forever friends, plant city residents, strawberries, good food, rides, fun! w w w . s t e p h a n i e h u m p h r e y p h o t o g r a p h y. c o m

<< Young and Old: Our city is an awesome place to live. << Strawberry Angels: We had so much fun on our photo shoot. This year we went to the Plant City Airport. << Past and Present: While in NYC we met the 1987 Strawberry Festival Queen, Rebecca Brown Klein. << New York City: We had the amazing opportunity to travel this year. Grand Central Station, Jovani, The Today Show, Time Square, Shopping, Shopping, Shopping! << Our Home Town: Our experience and opportunities have been numerous but none of them will we forget. Thank you, Plant City!

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The inception of the Florida Strawberry Festival was the idea of the Plant City Lions Club.

They knew the importance of the fast-growing strawberry industry in east Hillsborough County and wanted to celebrate and acknowledge the growing of this popular berry, thus the Festival was born in 1935.

Despite the perception that Hillsborough is an urban county, almost 33 percent of its land area is farmland. Agriculture has a long tradition in Hillsborough County, from cattle introduced by the early Spanish explorers, to Ruskin tomatoes and enough strawberry acreage to make the county the “World’s Winter Strawberry Capitol of the World.”

In 1995 the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau, in cooperation with other organizations, took part in the County Agriculture Force, a county-appointed agricultural advisory board. The charge given to this group was to first determine the current state of agriculture in Hillsborough County and then make recommendations to improve the industry’s economic sustainability. To demonstrate the current state of the industry, the Task Force commissioned an economic impact study. That study revealed that agriculture had an economic impact of $1.5 billion per year on the county, provided a tax surplus to the county, and that the opportunity cost of agriculture could compete very well with development.

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