As I sit in my office, I am looking out at the beautiful blue sky and the sun is shining so bright, I can’t help but think of “Summer.” Summer arrives on June 20, with it also comes all types of community activities. This letter is in reference to one of those longstanding events and one in particular which has brought so much enjoyment to so many, and it may very well be no more unless people get involved.

Last year, many of us were sad and disappointed to hear that the long-running Marysville Strawberry Festival Adult Trike Races were being cancelled. For those of us who have been involved in the Strawberry Festival, this event was always a fun and enjoyable event that brought spectators and entrants alike together for what always turned into an evening of fun and excitement. This event is part of Marysville and has been since 1974, with the first race being held in June of 1975.

My challenge, “Do Not Let This Event Die.” Don’t let it go away not to ever be enjoyed by our community and visitors ever again. It only takes one business to get it started. The momentum will take shape when someone puts out the first “trike” for everyone to see; when someone puts together their first team and they challenge other businesses to do the same; when the first painted strawberries appear on business windows; the official T-shirts hit the stores. There was a feeling that took over this city when Strawberry Festival got near, it has been missing for too long and it is time for that feeling to come alive once again.

Let’s do this for the sake of our community and in honor of those who created this terrific event. Our community needs and it is time for the “Spirit of Strawberry Festival,” past and present, to take over and rule the city for the next three months … what do you say, shall the Festival begin?

Sincerely,

Cheryl Deckard

Marysville