A weeklong countdown to homecoming concluded with a craft and vendor show Oct. 4 at Gillett High School.
The craft show, sponsored by the Gillett Area Chamber of Commerce, has been a part of Gillett’s homecoming celebration for four years, taking place on the Saturday following the homecoming varsity football game.
“After a weeklong countdown to homecoming,” said Chris Byars, chamber president, “the craft and vendor show is a great capstone to Harvest Days.”
The show featured about 20 vendors, from near and far, who displayed their creative goods for sale.
Louie Knapowski, of Suring, had tables lined with unique jewelry which he made from dinner spoons.
“I’ve been a vendor at shows like this for 54 years,” Knapowski said. “I used to do 200 shows a year, all over the country, but lately I’ve dialed it back due to health.”
Laurie Ferris, of Green Bay, had tables lined with beautiful homemade autumn décor.
The intricate pieces on display looked like they require hours to create, but according to Ferris, “after 40 years of working in the floral business, it only takes me about 20 minutes.”
Joanne Finnell, of Gillett, had tables lined with wallets, belts, key chain and various leather goods.
“Leather working has been a hobby of mine for many years,” Finnell said, “and I do custom work for folks. Recently, someone ask me to make a folding cribbage board out of leather.”
Ruth Milhans, of Gillett, had tables lined with patriotic, American flag crosses.
“These crosses are a very popular way to display love of God and country,” Milhans said. “We donated one to the raffle at A&W Tractor’s open house which is also happening today.”
Nicole Blaskowski, of Gillett, had tables lined with beadworks and harvest-themed décor.
“It’s funny how the providence of God works,” Blaskowski said. “As a little girl, I did crafting with my grandma and always dreamed of having my very own craft shop.”
Blaskowski served as a police officer in Oconto Falls, before being shot in the line of duty. Since entering an early retirement due to medical reasons, she and her husband are now in the process of opening a craft shop in the town of Stiles.
“We had hoped to be open for Christmas, but the building we are remodeling needs more work than we had previously thought,” Blaskowski said. “Our target date is now sometime in January.”
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