As a concerned member of our vibrant Olympia community, I'm reaching out to urge fellow residents and community leaders to support the Spooner family and their beloved seasonal berry stand on Yelm Highway. The Spooner stand represents more than just fresh produce—it's a symbol of local heritage and community spirit.

I recently received an email from Sue Spooner, a passionate advocate for her family's farming business. She expressed heartfelt concern over the future of their berry stand, a staple in Olympia for decades. According to Sue, the City of Olympia had assured the Spooner family that the stand would remain undisturbed even after the construction of the new sports complex set to take place at its current site. Yet, recent developments suggest the contrary, jeopardizing the stand's existence and possibly devastating this longstanding family business.

Spooner's berry stand is not just any fruit stall. It's a tradition for families throughout Olympia who have visited over the years, creating cherished memories along the way. The thought of losing this beloved stand is one that could send ripples through our community's fabric, affecting not only the Spooner family's livelihood but also the numerous families and individuals, like me, who grew up here and have only known this particular location in our community as "Spooners".

Let us not forget that preserving local businesses like Spooner's berry stand is critical in maintaining our community's unique character and economic resilience. It is essential that we hold the city accountable to its promises and ensure that the stand remains where it has always belonged.

The construction of the sports complex should coexist with the preservation of our local heritage, including Spooner's berry stand. Simple adjustments to the construction plan or alternative arrangements for the stand's operational space during and after construction can ensure both can thrive.

We implore the City of Olympia to uphold their commitment to the Spooner family. Let’s show our support by standing with Sue Spooner and her family, protecting one of Olympia's cherished traditions.

Sign this petition to save Spooner's berry stand from disappearing and help preserve the cherished memories and traditions of our community.