A new season is quickly approaching with classes starting on May 28 while the Sievers Shop opens on May 20. A few studio rentals, including the upcoming Washington Island Art Association’s Spring Workshop, will lead us into our full summer schedule. Until then, the spring landscape brings forth something new each day.
In and outside the Sophie Studio, two new pieces have been added to our Permanent Collection, a handwoven rug by Rag Rug Weaving instructor, Deb Sharpee and a Bent Willow Chair from instructor John Rezachek. They’re beautiful additions to the work already in the Sophie Studio, not to mention all that’s on display in the Walter Studio and in the old Jackson Harbor School portion of the Sievers Shop.
As a little preview, we like to share news about Island events, businesses, organizations and more at this time of year. Coming up this weekend is the Washington Island Art and Nature Center’s Birding Festival. Many of the same events throughout the summer continue as they have in the past including the Washington Island Music Festival, the Rec Run/Walk, Death’s Door Barbeque, Washington Island Literary Festival, Gathering Ground’s June bike tour and this year, the Trueblood Performing Arts Center (TPAC) celebrates 20 years with another season of great performances.
Did you know that Washington Island now has it’s own radio station? A non-profit venture under the umbrella of the TPAC, you can learn more about it and stream programs online at www.washingtonislandradio.com.
In business news, most of the restaurants open last year are already open, or will open for the season soon. One has closed permanently, the Ship’s Wheel (near the ferry dock) and Kap’s Marina, on the same property, has been sold. Deer Run Golf Resort operated a restaurant last summer, but both it and the golf course are closed. Karly’s Bar and Restaurant has been sold to the next generation who will operate it as Karly’s Bar and Dance Hall. They have been closed for some renovations and expect to re-open soon. Hotel Washington began serving dinner on May 15, continuing on each Wednesday-Saturday. Their Honeymoon House Market featuring fresh bakery, goods and local grocery opens daily on May 24. Jackson Harbor Soup & Sandwich has an item of note – they will be closed on Saturdays from June through September due to their catering event schedule.
One shop has closed permanently, The Weathered Fern, which was located in the one-story Norwegian log building near Mann’s Mercantile.
For a recent article on Washington Island that takes you along for a tour, check out this link from the latest Madison Magazine.
We hope you’ll have the chance to have a real visit to Washington Island and to Sievers this season!
Cheena Wade says
Very nice. I love the forget me nots! Cheena
Carolyn Foss says
Thanks, Cheena! Pretty soon they’ll be like a carpet in the woods. Magical!
Suzanne Bromley says
It’s so good to hear Washington Island news and can’t wait to be there in October
Carolyn Foss says
We can’t wait either, Suzanne! Having all of you here will be a great finish to our season.
Laury says
Looking forward to seeing all of you on May 28! Thank you for the updates and beautiful pictures !!
Carolyn Foss says
All of you coming for the Open Quilt Studio are going to start things off right, as always! See you soon!
Christine Springer says
Counting down the days until August!