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To the editor;

This letter is addressed to the wonderful people of the South Cariboo.

A dream that began in Forest Grove at Kariboo Farms 10 years ago was another reason to have a good time with the most aromatic ingredient – garlic.

We wanted to invite the community and even the world to go to the beautiful South Cariboo and a good time was had by all; the festival grew and time passed.

After seven years at Kariboo Farms, the festival out-grew the farm and it was moved to Centennial Park in 100 Mile House, where it continued to grow. Years passed and this year we enjoyed the 10th anniversary.

During our 10-year history, we have taken great satisfaction in being able to return some financial support to those non-profit associations that helped us host the festival. Now, in our new economic climate and as costs to host the festival in 100 Mile House have escalated, our ability to give a tangible financial thank you to there groups have been eroded.

From the start, it was my hope that our festival would have a powerful and positive impact on the economy of the South Cariboo. Although this is difficult to measure overall, I have had enough feedback from local businesses to know the South Cariboo Garlic Festival has been successful in bringing new visitors and interest to our beautiful Cariboo.

I would like to thank so many people who, over the last 10 years, made this festival a dream come true; without you, it never would have happened. Thank you to all the businesses that have given the festival their support.

It's truly a great community to live in and it's my pleasure to call Forest Grove and the South Cariboo my home.

After 10 years at the helm, I have decided with a heavy heart that it is time for me to step down to spend more time with my family and grandchildren who have moved to 100 Mile. I also want to spend more time with my husband Steve, who has stood by me in my crazy dreams. I would be so happy if the festival was to continue to be the party of the year with a “stinkin' flavour and smell.”

This is a well-founded opportunity for a group or an individual to step up and write the next chapter of the South Cariboo Garlic Festival. I know you'll have fun and meet some really wonderful neighbours.

If anyone is interested, feel free to call me at 250 397-2540.

Gail Szolosi
Forest Grove