Fiber Show benefits cancer research

As a breast cancer survivor, Orion Township Clerk Jill Bastian knows just how important research can be.
As a knitter, she’ll also get a chance to work on her art for that great cause at the Second Annual Fiber Art Show, sponsored by Heritage Spinning & Weaving in Lake Orion.
The show is going on now, and runs through Feb. 11. Proceeds support breast cancer research.
‘It’s a great show for a great cause,? Bastian said.
Joan Sheridan of Heritage started the show in memory of dear friend, Bettie Rae, who lost her life to breast cancer a couple of years ago.
‘We have a lot of cancer patients and survivors that come here, like Jill,? Sheridan said.
Raising money for research was a natural tie-in for Sheridan, and the show raised over $1,000 a year ago.
All of the proceeds go to the University of Michigan Cancer Center.
‘We want more this year,? Sheridan said.
Sheridan predicted that there would be around 50 entries at $5 per entry in the show’s 20 categories, ranging from the novice to experienced, and the serious to the whimsical.
The public will determine the winners by casting their votes, with each vote costing 50 cents.
There is no limit to the amount of votes that one can place. Sheridan suggests voting early and voting often.
In addition to the voter’s choice prize, there is a judge’s choice prize in each category.
A handspun, handwoven shawl will be awarded to the overall grand prize winner.
There is also a special showcase of work of the staff of Heritage on display.
At least 50 percent of the yarn/fiber used in each entry came from Heritage, and all types of fiber arts are eligible.
Winners will be announced at 2 p.m. on Feb. 12.
‘It’s a nice way to see what people in the area are doing,? Sheridan said.
‘Plus it supports the arts, and is all for a good cause.?
Heritage hosts the Fiber Art Show through Feb. 12, for breast cancer research.
Heritage is located at 47 E. Flint Street.
Call 693-3690 or visit www.heritagespinning.com.