Gilroy – Garlic Festival Association members are walking on the dark side this year.
Donning black polo shirts, selected by President Jennifer Speno, members including association chairs, directors, founders, and past presidents will wear the T–shirts for guests to distinguish the volunteers from the crowd.
“If somebody needs help, go and look for someone wearing a black shirt,” Speno advised.
Each year, the Garlic Festival Association’s president chooses the design of the T–shirt. Last year’s president John Zekanoski ordered a light beige polo with cobalt blue and forest green leaves scattered across the fabric.
This year’s T–shirt couldn’t be more different.
Speno chose a black, light weight polo style for this year’s model. Women have the option of wearing a version with capped sleeves. The association’s logo will appear on the front.
“People will think I’m crazy,” she laughed. “I have heard comments that it might be warm.”
Temperatures during the festival typically run at least 80 degrees, but that didn’t deter Speno from selecting the design.
“They’re lightweight. I think they’ll be OK,” she said.