The Urbanna Oyster Festival Foundation has named Linda and Dave Cryer grand marshals of the 69th annual Urbanna Oyster Festival set for Nov. 6 and 7.
The Cryers moved to Middlesex County in 2002 and have devoted “23 years of extraordinary service, leadership and compassion to the residents of the community,” stated a “Resolution of Appreciation” from the Middlesex County Board of Supervisors in February.
The Cryers spearheaded the creation of the “Cryer Center” located in the Harmony Village area of Locust Hill, which provides a central location to house the volunteer organizations Hands Across Middlesex and Habitat for Humanity. Hands Across Middlesex sponsors a food bank and clothing closet at the facility.
The Cryers financed the building that opened to a great deal of fanfare in 2010. At that dedication, U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Montross, said, “What a great contribution by individuals in a community who see a need. The Cryers are certainly to be commended for their efforts but also everyone else who seizes the need to help other people in need.
“There is no higher calling than helping others in their time of need and I believe efforts like this are a window into the souls of our community,” he said. “As I look around here today at the people here, I see the heart and soul of this community. A facility like this will truly help others in their time of need,” he said.
Then Virginia Del. Harvey Morgan said, “What a sensational day this is and what a rare opportunity for so many people who desperately need help. I can’t tell you how pleased I am to be here on this occasion and to see our county move in this direction.”
Dave Cryer, who has always been humble in his description of their role in the amazing financial gift of support to the Cryer Center, said at the 2010 dedication, “The real truth of the matter is that the effort it took to build this building for me was in a twist of the wrist to write a check.
“It was hardly the effort of all the volunteers who have been here every day folding clothes for the needy, building stud walls for a home for a family in need, and people who donate the food.
“I hope you will consider volunteering because everyone in this area needs a hand or a helper,” he said. “Please consider being one of those. We need your help!”
Urbanna Oyster Festival Foundation official Joe Heyman said that “the Cryers have given so much to help the people of Middlesex County and we felt by naming them our grand marshals was a small way of honoring and recognizing Linda and Dave. There are few people who have come into our county and given so much to help our people in need,” he said.
The Cryers have moved to Richmond to be closer to family. They will ride in the Fireman’s Parade on Friday night and the Saturday parade during the day. They will also participate in other festival activities.