Boca Strawberry Fest a tasty success

An early rush of customers ensured the Boca Grande United Methodist Church Strawberry Festival would be a success although whether or not it will top the $75,000 raised for 21 charities a year ago won't be certain until after expenses and receipts have been tallied.

But the gorgeous, sunny 75 degree day kept things balmy at the Boca Grande Community Center where hundreds of visitors mingled with islanders munching bratwursts and scooping up strawberry shortcakes.

Co-Chair Beth Paxton said the event was a success.

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Kathi Hustedt and Kay Billman were kept plenty busy doling out the strawberry shortcake and making change for hungry customers.

Linda Sommerville, left, and Janet Andress work to keep up with the steady stream of strawberry shortcake orders Saturday.

The Rev. Brian Brightly, left, sporting a strawberry on his cheek and a Grilling for God apron, talks with two friends at the Strawberry Festival.

The 2011 Boca Grande Strawberry Festival added more strawberries in an effort not to run out before the shortcake demand died down. It was still a close call.

"All the baked goods have sold and we seem to have had a good crowd," a tired but smiling Paxton said.

The festival closed at 3 p.m. Proceeds this year will benefit the following eight charities:

Strawberry Festival island charities

Boca Grande Child Care Center

Friends of the Community Center children's programs

Neighboring communities

Catholic Charities in Arcadia

Children First, Sarasota County

Good Samaritan Fund

Grace Place Mission for Kids in Naples

Kids Needs of Greater Englewood.

International

Los Rieles/La Vega School in Dominican Republic

Hope International