“It's sort of like the running of the bulls, involving tomatoes,” the other announcer added.
“And today, Leamington put itself on the world map,” she said, “challenging Spain as the biggest tomato celebration in the world.”
“Leamington certainly staked its claim to be the most exciting festival in
our
county,” he continued, “I know where
I'm
going next fall.”
“Be sure to bring along a raincoat,” she added. “Now turning to the latest developments in that earthquake that hit the coast ofâ”
Mrs. Wallace muted the tv, and we all stood there in silence, staring at the silent set.
“World famous,” my father said.
“
CNN
coverage,” the chief added. “Do you know how much coverage like that is worth?”
“You know,” my father said. “I really wouldn't want to close off a section of street, but I wonder about the parking lot at the arena.”
The chief nodded. “That would work. It's completely fenced on three sides,
close enough to the other attractions, but contained and certainly far enough away from the parade route.”
“You mean, you want to have a tomato fight?” I gasped.
“Well, of course,” my father said. “Weren't you listening to the news at all? This could be an incredible opportunity.”
“We were looking for something extra to add to the festival,” the chief said.
“We could have people come from across the country. This could sell out hotel rooms, bring in more people to eat in the restaurants and shop at the stores. This could be amazing!”
“Does this mean we're not in trouble?” Keegan asked.
“Oh, no, you two are still in big trouble,” my father said.
“Big trouble,” the chief agreed.
“And as a big part of your punishment you both are assigned to the committee to arrange next year's tomato fight.”
“I think we can do that,” I said. “Now, if it's okay, do you think we could go and
change into something not covered by tomatoes?”
“That would be wise,” my father said.
“Yeah, I was hoping to catch the Miss Tomato Festival contest,” Keegan added.
“That's a great idea,” I agreed.
We strolled out of the office, leaving our fathers behind. We hurried down the stairs and out onto the street. The firemen were washing the last of the tomato skins and pulp into the sewers.
“Here, I have something for you,” Keegan said. He reached into the front pocket of his stained jeans and pulled out a very squished tomato. “I was thinking that maybe it would be smarter if you carried it. No telling if I might see Owen and his tuba.”
Eric Walters is the popular author of dozens of books for juveniles and young adults, including
Laggan Lard Butts
in the Orca Currents series and
House Party
and
Juice
in the Orca Soundings series. Eric lives in Mississauga, Ontario.