Michael Frazier, of Dowagiac, is on the board for the Dogwood Fine Arts Festival. He and the other members of the board work year round to prepare for the annual arts and culture festival, which draws artists of all mediums to Dowagiac each May.

 

How long have you been involved with the Dogwood Fine Arts Festival?

I’m just finishing my second year.

 

What is your position with the festival and what does that entail?

I am on the festival board. We are responsible for overseeing the entire slate of events including scheduling, venues and attending to the needs of performers and participants.

 

What do you like most about volunteering with Dogwood?

An event of this scope which touches so many residents, especially the youth of the community, is a real credit to a community of this size and I’m happy just to be a part of it.

 

Do you volunteer with any other organizations?

Since I’m retired, I try to be productive and give a little back. I am a lector and an usher at Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church, I volunteer at the Dowagiac Area History Museum and am involved in acting at the Beckwith Theater and the Tin Shop Theater in Buchanan. I help out with some of the backstage activities as well.

 

How can people get involved in helping with next year’s festival?

Anyone is welcome to serve on the event committees which prepare for the festival. Specifically, we have a need for help in re-instating the Dogwood Tea for next year, after a one year hiatus. Also, the two or three months before the festival are busy with fliers, mailings, posters and other office duties. Anyone who is interested in becoming a part of Dogwood is welcome and can contact our office by phone at 782-1115.

 

Do you know a volunteer worthy of recognition? Nominate him by calling Ted Yoakum, community editor, at (269) 588-1040, or emailing him at ted.yoakum@leaderpub.com