Local artists fare well at county fair

Two Libby women, who have earned consecutive titles for Exhibitor of the Year at the Lincoln County Fair, are urging other residents of south Lincoln County to compete at the annual event.

Monica Webb earned the title of 2013 Exhibitor of the Year during the just-completed Lincoln County Fair. Webb achieved that status for earning the highest point total for her entries in Division E (Domestic Arts) and Division F (Fine Arts).

“It’s an honor to be selected for this honor for doing what I enjoy,” Webb said. 

Webb submitted quilted arts and a painting, of which she admits she is most proud.

Webb, who is retired, submitted 39 entries, of which she entered 24 in the Domestic Arts. Of those 24 entries, she received 18 blue ribbons and three reds. She also received two special awards.

In the Fine Arts category, Webb received eight blue ribbons and seven reds.

“I was really excited that my painting was recognized,” Webb said of the honor she received for Fine Arts.

While Webb was recognized for her arts, sewing and quilt work, Beth Kumle was crowned Exhibitor of the Year last year mostly for her cooking. Kumle submitted 43 entries last year, mostly vegetable dishes, breads, jams, jellies as well as some quilting and crafting.

Webb and Kumle are members of the Kootenai Valley Quilt Guild.

The quilting works of Webb, Kumle and others will be on display during the Quilt Guild’s event at Asa Wood during Nordicfest.

“Everyone should come,” Kumle said.

Kumle was awarded the Exhibitor of the Year plaque she won last year during this year’s fair, which was Aug. 23 to 25 at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds in Eureka.

“That’s the only bad thing. I’ve got to wait a year for my plaque,” Webb said.

The women invited more to participate.

“Sure, we’d like to see more involved,” Webb said.