“Strawberry Nights,” the theme for the Strawberry Festival’s 117th year, invites the Strawberry Festival Court to reflect on the iconic film “Grease,” a movie about friendship, confidence, music, dreams, summer memories, school spirit and classic style.
Just like the film’s main characters, each Strawberry Princess is approaching the end of an era to enter the bigger world beyond, marked by a carnival or, in this case, a Strawberry Festival.
If Princess Tatum Cole could step into a scene in the movie, she probably wouldn’t step; she’d skip.
That’s because it’s the high school dance competition in “Grease” that she’d most enjoy being a part of, saying the scene “represents fun, school spirit and the excitement of being involved in something memorable with friends.”
At Lebanon High School, the 18-year-old participated in varsity softball all four years, while also being on the honor roll.
Softball has a special place in her heart because it’s an activity that draws out her energy and spirit, she said.
“It gives me a place to compete and grow. Every game pushes me to work hard, stay focused and give my best effort no matter the situation.”
Following graduation, Cole will leave her parents – Bess Kent and Cody Cole – and siblings Jorjia and Gavin to attend Odessa College in Texas, where she will continue her softball career while studying kinesiology to become a sports physical therapist.
Off the diamond, she also enjoys crocheting, baking, and being with family and friends.
And if she were to win a competition in either festival waving, dance moves, or an ability to eat fair food, she knows for sure which she excels best in: “Definitely my festival wave.”
As a Strawberry Princess, Cole’s role is to help represent the community of Lebanon. For her, that means being someone others can look up to through her actions, attitude and character.
“It means showing kindness, respect, leadership and pride in where I come from while setting a positive example for younger students and athletes.”