Oxnard, Port Hueneme students submit entries to Strawberry Festival

Forty-five teachers and 727 elementary school students from the Port Hueneme School District and Oxnard School District have submitted entries for the 28th Annual California Strawberry Festival Youth Art Design Contest, the organization reported this week.

The winner will receive a $100 gift certificate (teacher is awarded $50 gift certificate) and the honor of having his/her design showcased before a crowd of thousands at the festival on May 21 and 22.

In a tradition that dates back to the early years of the festival, K-6 students are encouraged within a lesson plan to create an original work of art depicting the festival (various mediums considered).

“It’s an excellent way for us to help instill community pride and give back,” said Conrad Alvarez, festival board member.

Each contest participant also receives a complimentary festival admission and a family four-pack of tickets will also be awarded to top place finishers from each grade level. Through a sponsorship alliance, the contest is presented by Valu Plus Food Warehouse.

The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to  6:30 p.m., with parking ($10) available at Strawberry Meadows of College Park, 3250 So. Rose Avenue in Oxnard. General admission is $12, seniors 62-plus are $8 and children ages 5-12 are $5. Children 4 and under are free. Active military and dependents with ID are $8. Advance tickets can be purchased at www.strawberry-fest.org For more information, call 1.888.288.9242.