Festival organizers “very pleased” with 2010 edition

By Kate Jackman-Atkinson

Despite heavy rain on Thursday and ominous clouds Friday evening, those who came for the 14th annual Neepawa and Area Lily Festival enjoyed the festival under blue skies and sun.
Overall, the festival went well and Festival administrator Audrey Heffell, said “We were very, very pleased.”
The opening ceremonies on Friday morning took on a sombre note as attendees stood for a moment of silence in memory of festival co-founder Barrie Strohman.  Strohman had passed away early that morning and Heffell said that his loss “affected the [Lily Festival] committee”.  His wishes were to see the festival and the tours of his Lily Nook property continue.  
With weather which Heffell described as “absolutely wonderful”, attendance at the festival was strong, especially on Saturday which is usually the busiest day.  
New events at the festival seemed to be well received.  Heffell said that while people were hesitant at first, the Friday night trivia was “wonderful”.  She added that the wheel of fortune was, “pretty popular” and the antique tractor show was “very well received”.
Also new for this year were the 5 km and 10km runs in which 60 people participated.
Vendor participation was up to 47 booths which is about 10 more than previous years.
A change in entertainment saw the festival moving away from the country themed acts.  Heffell said that the change “maybe wasn’t as well received [as acts from previous years]” but added, “We were trying to have something for all age groups.”.