Foley Named 2009 Fair Homemaker

IRONWOOD, MI - Tuesday, August 25, 2009 - Sharon Foley of Ironwood is the 2009 Gogebic County Fair Homemaker. She was presented the Homemaker of the Year plaque by Lucia Patritto, County Director for MSU Extension, during an awards ceremony at the Fairgrounds on Sunday afternoon.

Patritto noted that Sharon Foley entered seventy eight exhibits, mostly in needlework, food preservation, and food preparation, but also in photography, antiques, floral, folk arts, and garden vegetables.

Sharon’s entries were on prominent display in two glass cases in the exposition building on Sunday. Patritto made special mention of a crocheted child’s vest, baked goods such as bread, several types of pies and povitica, maple syrup, many canned items, and a basket filled with beautiful garden produce. “I especially liked the cross stitch saying ‘A fisherman and the catch of his life live here’," said Patritto.

Sharon has been married to Jim Foley for fourteen years. They have five children, one in Virginia, one in South Dakota, and three who live in Ironwood, along with “four wonderful grandchildren," says Sharon.

She is a member of Our Lady of Peace Church, where she serves as a communion minister. Prior to retiring she worked as a secretary at Associated Bank in Hurley.

Foley noted she has entered exhibits in the Gogebic County Fair for a number of years, but never to this extent. Many family members joined other fair-goers in celebrating her accomplishment.

Any resident of Gogebic County who is at least 18 years old may compete to win the Homemaker award. The award is given through a system where each ribbon given to an entrant is awarded points. Exhibitors must have entries in four specified categories, but entries in other departments are added on, as well.