On Friday, August 22, 2003, Downtown Yuba City was bustling with people for the annual Yuba City Summer Stroll. Plumas Street was once again closed off to vehicle traffic for vendors, live music and games for all ages. A little bit of everything was brought out to attract people to take advantage of nice weather, good music and the chance to have something to do on a Friday night. Many of the Plumas Street merchants stayed open and welcomed strollers to shop after the sun went down.
“I am mainly looking forward to the vendors, good food and bargains,” said Potting Barn Annex employee Denise Baer. The Potting Barn Annex had just recently opened for business on Plumas Street so to have the opportunity to be introduced to the public was a treat. “I think this will help business immensely,” said Baer.
With dark clouds looming over Yuba City until 5:15, many were worried the weather might force cancellation. “At first I thought we were going to have a rainout,” said Baer, “but this turned out really nice.”
Once the larger bulk of the crowd the street looked much like a large outdoor party. There were hot dog and tri-tip sandwich vendors, bouce-house type activities for kids, a miniature train dubbed the “Bubblegum Express” toting riders up and down the street, poeple dancing to the live music of local band Deja Vu, and people gathering around talking about what a wonderful event it turned out to be.
The owner of The Potting Barn Annex, Joyese Sneed, said, “Its so nice that they shut down the street so people can walk up and down without worrying. Its something different for a lot of people.”
Samantha Ruiz, who was taking her very first pony ride, exclaimed from the ride, “Mom, can we come here all the time? I want to keep this pony!”
In front of the Sutter Theater, entertainment was provided from local talents such as Pom-Pom the clown, YMCA cheer spirit athletics and the Yuba Sutter Fair Royal Court.
The event was supposed to be in a 1950’s theme, but participants dressed up were far and few between. The employees of Hello Gardener were decked out in 50’s attire as they busily assisted customers until closing.
The event had been pushed back from July due to scheduling conflicts with other events such as the Tomato Festival, but was successful just the same. “This was lovely,” said Marysville resident Dora McKinley, “I would love to come back next year!”
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