A golden sun casts a warm glow across the beach, lighting up an anchor that is wedged in the cool sand. In the background, a sailboat glides across the blue water.
This serene scene, printed on the 2014 Watercade button, features the site of many of Watercade’s beloved events — Lake Ripley, which is host to the beach party, sand sculpture building contest and ski show.
The button drawing was designed by 13-year-old Marlaina Mahlow. Each year, Litchfield Middle School eighth-graders compete for the chance to have their artwork featured on the button.
Mahlow’s drawing also depicts fireworks blasting above the lake, which is her favorite Watercade activity.
“They are so pretty. I always look forward to the fireworks,” she said. Mahlow said she also enjoys the lip sync contest and water ski show. Mahlow participates in volleyball and track and field, and said she is considering running in Watercade’s 4-mile run this year. She said she also enjoys drawing, writing, reading and watching TV.
Buttons can be purchased for $4 from a variety of businesses throughout Litchfield, including the Independent Review, as well as from any of seven Miss Litchfield candidates.
Community members sporting buttons will receive $1 off admission to the Miss Litchfield coronation July 13 at Bernie Aaker Auditorium. In addition, all buttons are numbered, and those who purchase a button will have the chance to win $100. Three button numbers will be drawn at the end of Watercade, and the winning numbers will be announced at the coronation.
Button sales help fund Watercade events and promote the annual community celebration. For more information, contact Watercade Board Member Mary Hansen at 320-693-7348.
Copyright 2014 Litchfield Independent Review/Crow River Media/Media News Group/