To the Journal editor:

The Lake Superior Fiber Festival on Sept. 16 was truly a community event that was of interest to a variety of ages and showcased several fiber arts.

The natural beauty of our area seems to inspire various art groups. The fiber arts grew out of necessity over a long history in a wide range of cultures.

There are many people to thank for their months of planning. Women in leadership roles in various groups/guilds recommended: specific artists, discussed traditional to modern techniques, worked with groups to determine who had the experience of teaching, and those who have historical knowledge to share.

The committee included Rosemary Michelin, Judy Parlato, Mary Ann Theis, Melinda Stamp, Pat Gunning, and Cris Osier and Emily Varga from the Marquette Regional History Center.

The fiber artists who gave presentations included: Tina Baker, Mary Stunkard, Judy Parlato, members of Yarnwinders, Jo Wittler (MRHC Curator) and Jan Ricker.

Educational programs for children were organized by: Susan Balmer, members of Yarnwinders, and Megan & Friends (youth teaching youth). All day floor demos were provided by; Sue Wagner (Gladstone), Vicki Ruesing, Patty Beyer, Mary Brown and Cassie Haapapuro, giving attendees the opportunity for hands on and to ask questions one-on-one.

Rosemary Michelin coordinated the very popular fashion show that was open to all community members. The models ranged from the primary grades to adults across the spectrum showing their spectacular workmanship, while color burst under the dome of the MRHC.

Twenty-one door prizes were distributed by Kathryn Russell (MRHC Board) and Mary Ann Theis. Business donors included; Alley Kats (Kathryn Norton), Berroco Yarn and Knitting Fever Inc. Donations from groups and guilds include; Gwinn Quilters, Lake Superior Knitters at the MRHC, Marquette County Quilters Assoc., UP N Knitting Guild, Yarnwinders and the MRHC. Prizes from individuals included: Rosemary Michelin, Nan Sprawr Seaton, Betty Sommers, Mary Ann Theis, Jo Wittler and Shirley Timberman.

There were women from each group that volunteered time to answer questions at their group table, women/youth who set up for the event and wrapped prizes.

This program was a great example of a community supporting the arts and the MRHC allowing the event to take place in an ideal location and sharing a historical perspective. Thank you to all who support the arts.