Nothin’ says lovin’ like something from the oven baked on a 90-degree day

To the Editor:

On behalf of the board of Altamont Community Tradition, I would like to express our thanks and deep appreciation to all those involved in making our Fourth Annual Strawberry Festival a huge success.  Although Mother Nature threatened with a rainy outlook, skies cleared just in time to start serving up our delicious strawberry shortcake to attendees, and for children of all ages to gather around Stu Linendoll's multicolored parachute for games.

Once again, Stu entertained us all with wonderful games and contests, while MacIntosh the clown (and Mrs. Mac, also known as Elaine Person) delighted kids with balloon creations and colorful tattoos. Board member Norm Bauman got to intern the skill and enjoyed helping with the tattoos!

The background music from the gazebo was volunteered by artist Peter Hazen, who treated us to many great songs accompanied by his guitar — thanks, Peter!

The strawberry shortcake was deftly served by our always-reliable volunteers from the State Employees’ Federal Credit Union, Nancy and Shelly — thanks, girls!

I must also extend kudos to bakers Ronnie DeLauria and Marijo Dougherty for the homemade biscuits — nothin' says lovin' like something from the oven baked on a 90-degree day!

The sweetest strawberries were donated from our friends at Altamont Orchards, and Cindy Pollard from the Home Front Café donated our strawberry sauce to add to the berries! Stewart’s Shops provided ice cream cone prizes for the children participating in our games.

We cannot leave out Desolation Road Gallery — board member Jim Miller always does a great job with printing our flyers and posters. Please support these businesses that do so much for our community.

This year, new board member Laura Shore created a painting of strawberries in the quart container so vivid one wanted to pluck them from the picture.  Jim printed those as our first commemorative poster, and the few left are available at the gallery in case you missed getting one.

Another first, we were glad to have new board member Melissa Whipple on hand for free chair massages — what a treat!

Needless to say, there were many ACT members there who set up and took down all the necessary tables, tents, etc. They work behind the scenes, but are so appreciated as are many of their spouses who also support us.

Lastly, thanks to all the folks who attended our event and who make Altamont a truly wonderful place to live.

Judi Dineen

Altamont Community Tradition

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