Editor’s note: You can read more about CarmelFest 2015 here.
By Jylian Vigar
After 32 years of selling shortcake the Lions Club Strawberry Festival is without a doubt a CarmelFest favorite. On July 4 the Lions Club will sell strawberry shortcake, ice cream, whipped topping and bottled water at their Club house on Main Street. The event lasts from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Last year the event raised $1,900. Money from the event goes toward charities such as Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Indiana Eye and Tissue Bank and many others. Along with benefitting charities, some of the proceeds go toward the upkeep of the Lions Club house, which is used not only by the Lions Club but also by Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and 4-H clubs.
David DeVilbiss, 10-year Lions Club member, has led the Strawberry Festival efforts since 2010.
DeVilbiss said the Strawberry Festival has had a gradual increase in popularity, which has led to longer hours and better sales.
“Over the last few years we’ve had a steady flow of customers before the parade because it’s a nice way for people to meet up with their friends, “ DeVilbiss said. “So we’ve opened earlier and we serve customers until nearly 1 p.m.”
Between 15 and 20 Lions Club members volunteer for the Strawberry Festival. DeVilbiss said the most rewarding part of his job is not only working with his fellow Lions Club members but also serving the community.
“It’s a way for us to serve the public and raise money for all the things the Lions Club does. It’s just all around good for everyone,” DeVilbiss said.
Rick Dossey, Lions Club secretary and six-year member, said people look forward to the annual event.
“People like to come and get strawberries and then sit in front of the club and watch the parade. It’s not just family fun, it’s a family tradition.”
