BRANDON — As the annual Fourth of July parade hits the streets this weekend, one father-daughter duo will be a part of the summer tradition after winning over the hearts of the Community Roundtable.
Without her parents' knowledge, 9-year-old Holly Browder entered a short essay contest in an attempt to have her dad, Mark, crowned as Father of the Year. In about 50 words, kids explained why their dads are their heroes.
Holly's parents didn't find out about the contest until someone from the roundtable, which organizes the parade, called to say she won.
"For three days, she was just like on cloud nine around here," her mom, Shelly, said.
Holly said she didn't expect to win, but figured she "may as well try." Along with riding on the roundtable's float in the parade, Mark, 43, who works for the U.S. Postal Service, gets an array of prizes that include a round of golf for four, tickets to a Rays game and a family portrait.
The second- and third-place finishers also take home gifts. Here are the top three entries, printed as written.
First place
Holly Browder, 9,
Boyette Springs Elementary
My dad is special because he always gives to others in need. Even though my family is not very fourtunate somehow we make it all work. The reason why you should pick my dad is because I have not seen a true smile on his face in so long.
Second place
Cristina Delvescovo, 10,
Boyette Springs Elementary
Some special reasons my dad Arthur is my hero is because he cheers people up by telling jokes in the hard times like when he lost his job. Also my dad is always there for me know matter what. Thoes are the special reasons my dad is my hero.
Third place
Caitlyn Rothenbush, 9,
Symmes Elementary
My hero is my dad because he's always there to pick me up and dust me off. Like this one time at my volleyball game. I was struggling but when my dad walked in he sat me up and whispered "I believe in you!" After those four words I was rocken out my game!
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