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Sam Collins Day a Success
By Mary B. Tomolonius, Canton
Many thanks to all the businesses, restaurants, community organizations, entertainment groups, Canton Police, Canton Fire/ EMS Department, financial sponsors, and of course the dedicated volunteers whose contributions made Sam Collins Day a success. The crowds were steady all day long, and attendance was higher than last year. Once again, despite early weather predictions of rain, the weather was sunny and beautiful.
Special recognition and thanks to the entire Sam Collins Day Planning Committee, a group of individuals who have devoted the past year to organizing and finalizing the incredible details that go into this event. Thanks to Nils Sellman, Ann Gagnon, Betty Berube, Mark Quattro, Julius Fialkiewicz, Darryl Griffing, Arnie Goldman, Douglas Fay, Dan Garza, Deneen Lockwood, Susan Wacht, Renee Hughes, Lucy Nathan, Gary Miller, Mark Lange, Pat Toro, Brenda Sullivan, Marcy Campbell, Carol Krawski, and Rose Stepnick. Each individual contributed their expertise, enthusiasm, talent and untold hours of time. A note of recognition for Walter Kendra, who year after year sets up the Welcome Tent in Collinsville, providing attendees with information about the events occurring at both the main site and in Collinsville.
The arts play a significant role in Canton, as evidenced by two of the attractions at the Sam Collins Day main site, the Invitational Art Auction and Made in Canton, and the Sidewalk Art Festival in Collinsville. Thanks to the 40 artists who donated their talented works to the art auction; the proceeds go to the Sam Collins Day Art Scholarship Fund, which awards scholarships each year to a graduating Canton senior pursuing a career in the arts. Local Canton crafters, painters, food purveyors, jewelry makers, knitters, quilters, etc. participate in the ever-popular Made in Canton, showcasing and selling their items in a fabulously decorated country stoic tent.
We are grateful to local cartoonist Brad Gilchrist for his yearly contribution of a new and unique design for the Sam Collins Day T-shirts, and his willingness to spend the day autographing them.
Many thanks to the Canton Lions Club members and others who volunteered their time handling parking throughout the day, and to Walter Lowell for providing two golf carts for use during the day. A special note of appreciation to Chief Lowell Humphrey, who spent the day directing traffic. Thanks also to the individuals who helped at the end of the day, picking up trash, taking down signs, etc.
Finally, thanks to everyone who attended Sam Collins Day—we appreciated your support and look forward to seeing everyone next year.
Mary Tomolonius is Chairman of the Sam Collins Day Planning Committee.
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