Dear Sievers Family and Friends,
As spring arrives on Washington Island, we have always anticipated meeting new students, welcoming back those who are returning for class and greeting visitors in the shop. This spring, we, like you, are navigating our daily lives by placing the safety and health of those around us at the forefront. At the same time, we are all waiting to engage in the shared experiences that give us joy.
Using the guidelines that are available, we feel the responsible thing to do at this time is to cancel our classes in June (Classes 1 through 7). The nature of our classes and dormitory housing, with groups of people working and living in common spaces, often using shared materials and equipment, influences our decision. Knowing that many teachers and students travel from across the country to our remote community also plays a role during this public health challenge.
We have notified the teachers and students affected by the cancellation. Our hearts are set on continuing with the remainder of our classes. At the same time, we’ll be responsive to any new guidelines being issued to determine our course going forward.
For now, we can visit each other through continued postings on our blog, on Facebook and Instagram. Look for a variety of Sievers and Washington Island photos, news and links.
Ann, Cindra and Carolyn will each be working part-time in the office to answer your emails and phone calls. Barb and Butch continue to ship Sievers Benchwork daily. Many consignment items have arrived and we have a nice stock of new yarns, books and fiber art supplies. On a regular basis in our blog posts, we’ll be offering selected items from the shop that can be ordered online. Our goal is to open the shop as soon as it is safe to do so. When that time comes, we would welcome your visit!
We cannot thank you enough for the care you continue to show as well as your friendship and dedication to Sievers, our teachers and each other. Be safe, create and stay in touch. We’ll do the same!
Steve and I have been thinking of you all through Winter and now this global moment of Covid-19. The memory of our Spring visits with stunning wildflowers brings beautiful & the hope of nature.
Most affectionately, Ann & Steve Valenta
Thank you so much Ann and Steve!
We are doing well and are just today, really noticing all the green coming through, especially after a couple days of rain. Daffodils are ready to open and the birds are singing. It’s heart-lifting! Take good care,
Carolyn
I’m sure that was not an easy decision but I salute you for doing the responsible thing!
Thank you Gerri,
It is difficult. We will miss seeing so many people, but the constraints of what we all have to contend with wouldn’t make for the same Sievers experience. We’re looking ahead to a more certain environment.
Take care,
Carolyn
Sorry you have to cancel classes but I understand why it had to be done. I will so miss being in class this year. I am hoping that once things are able to open up again that we can make a trip to the island this year and at least visit you all at the shop. A whole year without browsing the shop and purchasing fiber?? Not sure I can survive. lol This certainly has been a trying couple of months but I continue to count my blessings . . . and there are many. I pray you all stay safe on the island. Continue to share the beautiful photos and I can live through the eye of your camera this summer. I may have to do some “online” shopping this year. 🙂
Hi Renee,
We’re so sorry, too. This year won’t be the same without the “Shawano Girls”! We do hope we’ll see you in person this season. We liked the “old normal”! Thanks for you nice comments and take care, we miss you already!
Carolyn
Such difficult decisions and times for you and all of us who love our Sievers visits. I’m going to enjoy the beautiful photos of the island and dream about future visits. Sending love to you all.
Thanks Karen! We’ve heard from many students like yourself, sending such kind thoughts our way. We so wish we could have made it work for June, but are staying positive for the rest of the season!
Take care of yourself and Bob!
Carolyn