The success of the 12th annual Maple Valley Days Arts Festival was attributed to many people and entities. It was evident that when many people came together to support a good cause, wonderful things happened. 2000 visitors to the city’s beautiful Lake Wilderness Lodge viewed artwork from many talented local artists and heard the musical talents of local musicians – from teens to adults.

It is a challenge to adequately thank everyone involved in the annual celebration of the arts. Thank you, first of all, to the city of Maple Valley for the use of its beautiful lodge and to its staff, especially Tannley DeVincent. 4Culture provided grant funding to support the expenses of the event. Chaz Olsen and Lisa Mantle from the Lake Wilderness Bar and Grill expertly catered our gala preview. Much appreciation to the Maple Valley Days Committee for their partnership.

Local businesses and sponsors provided funding for artists awards: Jim Flynn Development, Inc.; CPRS, Inc.; Sheila Dufford, in memory of Dorothy and Gordon Roessler; Jim Hanna; Penny’s Salsa, the Hagee family; Diane McClaine; The Loft Salon and Spa; and Village Coffee. Thanks to local businesses that assisted us: Eric VanRuff of MV Chevron UHaul; and WD Distillery.

Thanks to our many volunteers: Elisa Lewis and Jim Hanna, entertainment coordinators; Karen Jimenez, graphic artist; Sally Penley, calligraphy demonstrator; Meghan Goetz, children’s art and activities coordinator; Linda Denny, jurist; Josh Schmid & Marty Gomez, set-up; Ken Fox, technology supervisor and MVCAC members: Debye O’Rorke, Greg Bartol, Vicki Lewis, Gloria Peterson, Jules Gommi, Margaret VanDuine, Lori Collins, Patrice Colvin, Sheri Drllevich, Amy Kinshella, Dina Nichols, Ed Corrigan, Richard Jahn, Barbara Retelle, Amberlin and Gretchen Blair, Allegra Sundstrom, Breanne Buentemeier, Jordan Fujoka and Brenda Running.

More artists, over 70, submitted artwork than ever before. Congratulations to our award winners: Richard Jahn; Don Haggerty; Margaret VanDuine; Lori Twiggs; Donna Jean Perry; Kathy Fruge-Brown; Debra Cepeda; Karen Jimenez; Lea Bishop and Colton Running who won the peoples’ choice award.

Thank you to all our talented performers: the Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra; the Burwell Brothers & Chris Luquette; the Tahoma Drama Club; Allegra Sundstrom; Megan Kelly & Elisa Lewis; Hejira; Maple Villains; Washington Flute Circle; Lead Rose; Northern Departure Larry Murante; Camano Cadillac Band and 3rd Attempt.

It was a wonderful weekend thanks to everyone involved. Join us next year the second weekend in June for the 13th annual Maple Valley Days Arts Festival.

Mary Jane Glaser, Christina Grachek, Carrie Sundstrom, Ken Fox and Jim Hanna

The Maple Valley Creative Arts Council

Board of Directors