May Evenson and Don Taylor, residents of Grandview Village in Marysville, met about a year ago and "they've been inseparable ever since," said Grandview's director Debra Loughrey-Johnson. On February 13, the couple found out they had been selected as the Strawberry Festival Senior Royalty representing Grandview Village.

"This is always a fun event," said Loughrey-Johnson. "The residents vote on their king and queen, and it's a secret until our Valentine's Day celebration."

The festive event featured entertainment by singer Bill Moyer, a local performer who has shared the stage with legends that include Johnny Cash and Elvis.

May Evenson, 95, retired from teaching in the public schools, including the Marysville School District with stints at Liberty and Sunnyside elementary schools, but never completely gave up her role as a teacher.

Roe Keating was in Evenson's third grade class in 1956, and has stayed in touch with her teacher throughout the years. "She is an amazing teacher," said Keating. "When she was 75 she started teaching the art of rosemaling to another generation of learners."

Rosemaling is a traditional Norwegian craft that incorporates painted roses and other flowers in decorative designs.

Don Taylor retired from the PUD, where he served as the superintendent of construction until 1987. He has lived at Grandview Village for about 13 months.

Bob and Emma Bergstrom were the 2008 Senior Royalty from Grandview. Bob Bergstrom has since passed away, but his daughter, Sharon Fowler, joined her mother in passing the crowns on to this year's royal couple.

Evenson and Taylor will represent Grandview Village in this year's Strawberry Festival Grand Parade. Senior royalty couples will also be chosen from Merrill Gardens, Madeleine Villa, Marysville Care Center and the Tulalip Tribes.

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