The annual Cherry Blossom Festival in Marshfield is gearing up for its 20th season, and the festivities began with a heartfelt luncheon on Thursday, Sept. 26, at the newly announced event venue, The Jackson Grille. The event honored Teresa Parson, the First Lady of Missouri, in her role as Honorary Chairwoman of the festival.
Rev. Nicholas W. Inman, founder of the Cherry Blossom Festival, welcomed attendees with warm remarks, setting the tone for a day filled with community spirit. Mayor Natalie McNish provided the invocation, and students from Fordland Elementary led the Pledge of Allegiance, showcasing the involvement of local youth.
The program featured the singing of the National Anthem by Shayne Piles and a poignant reading of the Cherry Blossom Poem, which was written by Missouri Poet Laureate David Harrison. Guests were also treated to a rendition of "God Bless America," performed by Stacy Atkison, Roye Cole, Stan Whitehurst, and Rev. Inman, accompanied by Brenda Sommerville on piano.
A delicious buffet lunch prepared by Sheila's Place delighted the attendees, and the event provided an opportunity for the community to come together.
In her remarks, First Lady Teresa Parson expressed her appreciation for the festival, saying, "Cherry blossoms, I think, are a beautiful reminder of good things to come. Because, as they grow and prosper, they become very beautiful. So during my time as First Lady, I chose to focus on our future as well. Thanks for coming in the future."
"During the governor's time as Lieutenant Governor, we wanted to choose a project that we can work on together,” the First Lady added. “So one of the projects that we chose was JAG, the Jobs For America's Graduates Program."
Marshfield High School JAG students were recognized by the First Lady for their efforts in serving patrons during the luncheon, exemplifying the festival's commitment to community involvement.
"Six years ago, we began this venture of ours. We had six schools participating at the time, so the program sells itself,” Parson noted, reflecting on her journey with the JAG program. “It's not because of the Governor and I, but it's something that when they see the potential, they see what his JAG class is doing for the kids, then they begin to flourish."
Governor Mike Parson also addressed the gathering, reflecting on his upcoming transition back to Bolivar as his term draws to a close and teasing the crowd with details from his new book. Governor Parson emphasized the significance of community projects, noting that the citizens of southwest Missouri are his people–and festivals such as the Cherry Blossom celebration make him proud to be a Missourian.
In a special moment, Teresa Parson was awarded a plaque commemorating her role as honorary chairwoman, featuring a quote from Helen Keller: "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much."
The day concluded with a benediction by Pastor Bruce Blankenship of the Show Me Cowboy Church, and a book signing by Governor Parson. Parson also gifted a book to each JAG student in attendance.
Attendees left inspired and eager for the upcoming Cherry Blossom Festival. As the festival approaches its milestone 20th anniversary, the sense of community and celebration continues to bloom in Marshfield.
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