Oh, how I wish more people would write about the Heartland Idol contest. It is truly remarkable to see such talent coming from right here in our own back door. I would not be a judge if they paid me NFL money. For the most part, even the people who don't move on to the next level are good and fun to watch. Don Ewell makes a great emcee; he sure has some quick wit about him and has a way about him that can relax the contestants. You don't have time for dinner before the 6 p.m. start? Not to worry. There is some mighty fine food to be bought. Hey, another reason to come is to see the size of them hot dogs. The bratwurst, pulled pork and hamburgers are nothing to turn your nose up at, either, and then there is the smell of popcorn, as well as all kinds of other snacks. Plus, right across the street is a cold treat wagon with all kinds of cold treats, which is nice on a hot night. ...more

October 27, 2009

Michelle Stringer last week claimed a slice of Florida Strawberry Festival history. ...more

March 11, 2009

PLANT CITY Michelle Stringer claimed a slice of Florida Strawberry Festival history. The 24-year-old college student on her spring break became the first woman to win the festival's shortcake eating contest. ...more

March 6, 2009

Record-breaking rapper Flo Rida rolls through his home state. ...more

March 3, 2009

The United Food Bank is still tallying up the figures, but it appears a fundraiser featuring celebrity chef Jon Ashton brought in at least $40,000. The venue, the Trinkle center on Hillsborough Community College's Plant City campus, was packed Saturday as Ashton entertained with wit and a cooking demonstration. Ashton, a frequent guest on NBC's "Today" show, also helped auction sports memorabilia. ...more

February 10, 2009

Convincing local businesses to sponsor a fashion show during a sputtering economy has been a monumental challenge for three local women. ...more

January 18, 2009

TAMPA "Marvelous Marvin" Boone will say hello and goodbye to fans of his canceled radio gig at an "Oldies Party" Thursday night at the Ritz Theater in Ybor City. "Some are calling it a tribute, but that sounds like I'm dead or my career is over," he says. "I think of it as a party, because we're going to have a good time." ...more

December 9, 2008

Holiday music will fill the air for Christmas on the Mall, starting at 6 p.m., Monday, Dec. 8, in front of the Hotel Jacaranda. ...more

December 6, 2008

Flobots are among the performers at Sunday's "Next Big Thing" ...more

December 5, 2008

This year's Heartland Idol competition will last just one more exciting night. ...more

November 8, 2008