Allison Chavez. Courtesy photo.
OXNARD — Out of 1,633 entries from kids in kindergarten through sixth grade, the creative strawberry design of 8-year-old Allison Chavez from Haycox Elementary School in Oxnard was selected as the grand prizewinner of the California Strawberry Festival 35th Anniversary Celebration’s Youth Art Design Contest.
Festival representatives threw a surprise strawberry cupcake party and award presentation today with Chavez’s second grade class joining in. Chavez received a $100 gift certificate and a framed presentation of her design, which will be displayed at the California Strawberry Festival May 19 and 20. Her teacher Jennifer Vazquez was awarded a $50 gift certificate. District Director Jeanette Sanchez from Assembly member Jacqui Irwin’s office issued a certificate of recognition and Superintendent of Hueneme Schools Christine Walker joined in the festivities.
The hundreds of students who participated in the contest from school districts throughout Ventura County will receive a free festival ticket as an appreciation for their efforts.
Chavez’s colorful creation features a large strawberry with a sweet smile surrounded by sunshine and blue sky.
“We first talked a lot about strawberries, the festival and the contest in class. The students especially wanted know about the strawberry pizzas and tacos, games and carnival rides,” says Vazquez. “Then, they got to work on their drawings. They’ve been asking me when the winner would be announced. I’m so excited for Allison. Her artistic talent really came through in her design.”
“We want to thank the teachers who always do such a wonderful job to inspire their students to do their best artistic work on their Youth Art Design entries,” says Festival Chairperson Mike Thompson. “Kids get to show off their creative skills while learning about the region’s rich agricultural heritage. The contest is just one of the ways the community can be part of the festival.”
Official sponsors for this year’s festival are Smart & Final, Budweiser and Coca-Cola. Media sponsors include the Ventura County Star, KTLA-TV, The Wave, KEARTH, KOST, Myfm, Gold Coast Broadcasting, Cumulus Media, Radio Lazer, Jack FM and Oxnard Convention & Visitors Bureau.
The 35th Annual California Strawberry Festival is May 19 and 20 at Strawberry Meadows/College Park in Oxnard (3250 South Rose Ave.). Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., both days. General admission is $12, seniors 62 and over are $8, and children ages 5-12 are $5. Kids 4 and under are free. Active military and dependents with ID are $8. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or in advance online. The California Strawberry Festival toll free information line is 888-288-9242. For tickets and information, visit http://www.castrawberryfestival.org