June 3, 2008
Dear Editor:
It is with great pride and gratitude that we are able to
report that this year’s Strawberry Festival was a record
breaking success! Thanks to generous underwriting support
from Brandywine Hospital, Willow Financial Bank and other
sponsors, hundreds of volunteers who planned and worked throughout
the four-day event, and the many businesses and non-profit
organizations donating time and money, the income of the
event grew by more than 25% - a phenomenal improvement in
a tough economy.
Special thanks are due Freedom Village for their sponsorship
of the spectacular fireworks, DNB First’s raffle, Kia
of Coatesville’s entertainment stage, Herr’s “Strawberryland” area
for young children, Commerce Bank’s “Berry Blast
Zone” for older children and teens, Citadel for sponsoring
the ever popular Strawberry Shortcake booths, ArcelorMittal’s
TGIF concerts, Krapf’s Coaches’ free shuttle service,
and WCOJ and the Daily Local News for their great coverage – you
get the picture! There are so many generous businesses in our
community and the Brandywine Health Foundation is honored to
have their support.
There are many highlights from the beautiful weekend, but
we would be remiss if we did not acknowledge the Caln Township
Police Department for their exemplary job in maintaining order,
calm and safety despite the thousands of people on the Brandywine
Hospital grounds throughout the four-day event, and the Washington
Hose, Minquas, Westwood and Martin’s Corner EMS departments,
who were available in case of emergency.
We are grateful to the Coatesville Rotary Club, the Thorndale
Volunteer Fire Company, the Brandywine YMCA and the Coatesville
Public Library (we love the Used Book Sale!) for their committed
partnership with the Brandywine Health Foundation, as well
as the individual members of the volunteer Steering Committee
who are always looking for ways to improve the Festival - listening
to YOU, our community, when you make suggestions.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for May 28-31 for
the 2009 Strawberry Festival and thank you again to our fabulous
supporters and volunteers. You are the best!
Sincerely, |
