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Food fest sticks to tangy ribs

The event, which kicks off today, will serve up heaping helpings of barbecue samples.

By JACKIE RIPLEY
Published February 3, 2006

CITRUS PARK - Oldsmar has its Octoberfest; Town 'N Country, its Salsa Fest. And now Citrus Park has its Rib Fest.

"We try to make the festivals match the needs and desires of the community," said Jerry Custin, president of the Upper Tampa Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce. Citrus Park "is a good barbecue community."

This year's Great Northwest Rib & Family Fest, which starts today and goes through the weekend, will take place at Sickles High School, which is cosponsoring the event with the chamber. The event replaces the old Taste of Citrus Park.

While admission is free, you'll want to bring cash for those restaurant samples.

"People can buy ribs from vendors and vote for their favorite one," said Diane Paul, the chamber's event manager.

Chamber leaders wanted to give the festival more of a carnival feel and have added rides and a talent show. Musical acts include Blue Dice, Brer and Rock & a Hard Place. An open-mike talent show also will be held.

Proceeds, as in past years, will support the chamber's education foundation, which provides college scholarships to graduates of area high schools.

"Our goal over the next five years is to get up to $500,000 in scholarships for Upper Tampa Bay high schools," Custin said.

Festival hours are Friday, 5 to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.

Jackie Ripley can be reached at ripley@sptimes.com or at 813 269-5308.

[Last modified February 2, 2006, 11:27:10]