Wine and Roses an evening of celebration

The Wasco Elk Ladies will host "Wine and Roses Under the Stars" on Friday, Sept. 8, as part of this year's Rose Festival activities. It will be an honored guest reception as a tribute to the 2023 Grand Marshals, the late Charles Wedel and his family.

Serving as Honorary Grand Marshals will be the Wasco VFW Post 6742. The Miss Wasco Rose Queen and featured artists also will be recognized.

Last year was the first time the Elk Ladies presented the Wine and Roses event and was also the first organization in the festival's history to be named Honorary Grand Marshals.

Elk Ladies treasurer and organizing committee chair Liz Gerber said, "Last year, we had a fantastic event with 130 people attending. Everything just turned out really well, and it seemed like everybody was happy with it. We got a lot of nice compliments."

"This year will be just as special and very touching for our town. We are so glad to be involved in an event that has historically been an important part of the Rose Festival every year. Growing up the Rose Festivals were so memorable to all of us and to be a part of it now is very nice."

Last year's Grand Marshals were Tilo and Jeni Cortez, Roger and Deloris Harrison, and Tim and Karen Holtermann. At the event, Mayor Gilberto Reyna awarded them a key to the city for their years of service.

This year will be no different in celebrating the contributions of the 2023 Grand Marshals for their significant impact on the community by sharing their talents, time and resources.

For the Rose Queen, it will be her first official public appearance.

Also, instead of one featured artist, several students from Wasco High School will be acknowledged for their artistic excellence.

Gerber said, "It's a good community event full of family and friends because that is what we are to each other.

"It will be an opportunity to network and get to know your neighbors over a nice evening of camaraderie and pride."

The event will begin at the Wasco Elks Lodge from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $50 and include appetizers and two drinks. Call Liz Gerber 661-472-3875 or Kathy Giesy at 661-378-7468 for ticket information.