By Shannon K. Jones
Staff Reporter
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SAULT STE. MARIE - With humidity reaching almost 100 percent and the temperature near 90-degrees, turnout for the Sault Area Arts Council's 33rd annual Sault Summer Arts Festival, held on Aug. 2, was down from previous years.
"I think this was the absolute hottest year we've had," said Jean Jones, festival chair. " It didn't even begin to cool off until around 7:30 p.m."
Heat hampered sales at this year's festival as well, which takes place each year on the first Tuesday in August.
"We had gorgeous items on display," said Jones. "I have received calls after the show from people who wanted phone numbers to order items because they couldn't withstand the heat. It's too bad because it was a good show."
More than 90 exhibitors from all over the country came to showcase their works, ranging from baskets to jewelry and paintings. According to Jones most artists return each year. The SAC attributes the success of the show to the voluntary efforts and donations that allow it to take place - the grounds where the festival is held were donated by Tendercare, a P.A. system was donated by Sault Community Theater, and the tent lent by Kewadin Casino.
"No one gets paid," said Jones. "Musicians even come out for free to provide entertainment."
Artists recognized for their work in the 2005 festival, receiving prizes donated by local merchants and professionals, were:
Best of Show Award: Sergio Barcena, jewelry and metal work
Best of Class Award: Janet Bonnell, pine needle baskets
Painting Award: Marlene Mousely
Arre Lahti Design Award: David Bigelow
Jewelry Award: Alice Landis, sterling silver jewelry
Fiber Arts Award: Chuck and Ann Mester, hand-woven baskets
Graphics Award: Mike Lofton, caricatures
Photography Award: Roger Chase
Pottery Award: Nancy and Joe Grimsley
Wood Award: Roger Bulkley, inlaid wood designs
Glass Award: W.T. Ritter, stained glass
Honorable Mentions: Stephanie Roose and Mike Johnston
