Marci Penner is the executive director of the Inman, Kan., based Kansas Sampler Foundation that has organized the annual Kansas Sampler Festival each year since it started on the farm of Penner and her father. On the first weekend of May in both 2010 and 2011, the festival will be hosted by Leavenworth County. The foundation is also currently taking nominations for the Eight Wonders of Kansas History.
1) The Kansas Sampler Festival for 2010 is coming up soon. Could you tell us a little bit about the event? It’s like a living brochure of Kansas life. The festival provides ideas for day trips in every part of the state and introduces you to Kansas music, art, books, food, and products! It’s all Kansas-all weekend. Something to celebrate.
2) What at first motivated you to organize the Kansas Sampler Festival? My Dad and I had written our first guidebook and had a book signing party on our family farm. Some places in the book set up booths in one tent. The next year we named the event the Kansas Sampler Festival.
3) The 2010 festival is said to be the first time a whole county has hosted the festival. What could that mean for the event? It’s an inclusive way to host the event and gives all towns in the county a better chance for exposure.
4) The nominations are due soon for the 8 wonders of Kansas history. What is the Kansas Sampler Foundation looking for with those nominations? We’re looking for the most unique parts of Kansas history in which there is also something to see. For details go to www.8wonders.org.
5) How can people help with both the 8 wonders selection and the festival? We’re taking public nominations for 8 Wonders of Kansas History the month of March at www.8wonders.org. The festival needs lots of volunteers! Contact Bob Topping or Keyta Kelly. It’s fun to get involved!
