"Big Annie" Statue Fund Garners Community Support
Supporters and volunteers of the Big Annie Statue Fund Advisory Committee have been spending the summer engaging in community events and fundraising! The group’s first year has been focused on brining awareness to Annie Clemenc's legacy and the project. As of July 11, 2023, over $14,000 has been raised to support the Big Annie Statue Fund!
MAY
Volunteers participated in “Chuck-a-Wheel” at the Keweenaw Roller Derby bout at the Calumet Colosseum.
KCF and the Big Annie Statue Fund providing the community with information at Bridgefest, June 2023.
JUNE
On June 16, the Calumet Theatre showed a free film regarding the 1913 Strike to coincide with Annie Clemenc Day on June 17. Project lead and advocate, Vada Riederich, spoke before the film showing and also hosted a table in the lobby.
The Big Annie team was also present at 63rd annual Bridgefest! Lauren Phoenix, a resident of lower Michigan who had read about Big Annie online, traveled to the UP to dress as Big Annie and carry the flag alongside other fund supporters.
On June 17, KCF and the Big Annie Statue Fund team hosted a table to share information about the fund and other ongoing projects in our community.
JULY
The Big Annie Statue Fund also had the chance to participate in Independence Day activities! On July 3, they hosted a table at the Lake Linden park during the festivities. The following day, the group participated in the parade. Penny Menze dressed as Annie, wearing a vintage white dress created by Vada, and carried the flag.
AUGUST - UPCOMING
August 5 - Tamburitzans Performance - Preceded by an event in the park next to the Theatre. The Big Annie Fund team will have a table with materials and information.
August 19 - Calumet Pasty Fest - The Big Annie Fund team will share a table with KCF to share stories and community information.
August 25 - 27 - Lake Linden Watercross - The Big Annie Fund team will have a table. Community members are welcome to stop by for more information.
OTHER NEWS
In addition to accepting donations, the Big Annie Statue Fund now has items available for eligible donors! Author Mary Russell donated sixteen signed Women of the Copper Country books for fundraising. Kristan Coleman donated her specially created Big Annie coloring books and “Annie” enameled pins/magnets for fundraising purposes. Annie Clemenc collectible bookmarks were designed and printed as thank-you items for $5 donations. These items should be available at the upcoming events, listed above.
Interested in learning more or volunteering? Connect with Big Annie team lead Vada Riederich: vadalou@gmail.com
Learn more about the Big Annie Statue Fund and donate online: www.keweenawgives.org/big-annie