By Grace Miller
Raider Review Staff
The 2016 Florida Strawberry Festival has two parades: the Civitan Youth Parade Saturday, March 5, and the Grand Parade Monday, March 7.
The Civitan Youth Parade is a Plant City tradition stretching back 43 years. It starts at the State Farmers Market and goes to the festival grounds.
The Grand Parade parade marches through Historic Downtown, down Reynolds Street and ends at the festival grounds.
Both celebrate Plant City’s rich agricultural history and tradition.
Plant City High School has always been a part of the festivities, and this year is no exception. From the royal court to the clubs, there will be no shortage of Raider representation in this year’s parades.
Senior Olivia Brosky is the grand marshal of the Civitan Youth Parade. She is a College Board AP scholar and a member of National Honor Society, Interact, drama club, PCHS Leadership Team and FFA.
Of course, the Strawberry Queen and court will be making an appearance in the parades. This year PCHS has two girls on the queen’s court, Ashtyn Steele and Ashlyn Yarbrough.
Also, the Raider Regiment Marching Band will be marching and performing in the parades.
“It’s always emotional to do something for the last time,” senior band member Ben Miller said. “It’s emotions of gratitude, though.”
On the school district float, PCHS will be represented by varsity football player Markese Hargrove. Multiple clubs will also be participating in the parade.