Thanks to the inaugural Pierce County Fair Placemat Challenge, Meals on Wheels recipients through the Pierce County Aging & Disability Resource Center will receive a fun surprise: a quilted placemat.

Fair Manager Liz Dietsche learned of the idea at the Association of Fairs Convention and brought it to Pierce County.

“It was an easy thing we can do and so many people here like to quilt,” Dietsche said.

Marsha Shafer, the fair’s Open Class Superintendent of Home Furnishings, said about 30 participants quilted 80+ placemats for the challenge. Quilters were required to use Christmas/winter fabrics in their designs. All entries are 12x16 rectangles and washable.

Pierce County Nutrition Coordinator Lena Aumann said Meals on Wheels drivers check on their clients every day and are often the only face some people see. If drivers don’t make contact with their clients, Aumann starts calling them to make sure they’re okay.

The placemats will be distributed to Meals on Wheels clients throughout Pierce County. The Placemat Challenge will take place at next year’s fair with a Fall/Spring design. Quilters are encouraged to participate, not only for a chance at a ribbon, but to bring a smile to someone’s face.

For more information, make sure to check the 2024-25 Pierce County Fair book, available at the Fair Office (364 N. Maple St., Ellsworth).