Tonight was a wonderful example of why I am proud to be from Plant City, Florida.
Our youngest child decided last year that he wanted to show a pig at The Florida Strawberry Festival. So, we completed the application process a few months ago, and tonight was the night of the lottery drawing. I have often heard about how intense this evening gets, but I got to see it for myself tonight. There were over 200 applicants from all over Hillsborough County, and only eighty-four names were drawn for showing and selling the swine.
Well, Cole didn’t get drawn to show this coming year (which, BTW, will be March 2-12, 2017), but our experience made me walk away feeling proud.
I am proud to be from a town and associated with a festival that honors God, country, agriculture, and our youth.
The event was opened up with a beautiful prayer. Our military, youth, the upcoming presidential election, our country, the festival, and families were all lifted up to our Heavenly Father for guidance, peace, and prosperity. The attendees all stood, faced the American flag, and said The Pledge of Allegiance while putting their hand over their heart. Throughout the lottery process, others were congratulating ones drawn. At the end of the lottery the other 60% of youth walked away with their heads held high. Well…most did. Yes, there were tears from some youngsters, but respect and gracious were displayed.
Now, I’m not sure of too many communities where people come together for one occasion, yet walk away with a sense of pride because of the honoring of God, country, the agricultural community, and invest in our youth, but I do know that I am a part of one.
Thank you, Plant City, for growing yet keeping that small town atmosphere and humble respect for others and our Creator. Thank you to the Future Farmers of America and the 4-H organization for encouraging our youth and teaching them many values that we often don’t see focused on in the media today. I know that as a product of both these organization, treasured lifelong skills and values were instilled in me.
God bless The Florida Strawberry Festival! God bless our agricultural community!