Friends, this note is hard to write. Early in June, Kaaren Hoback - long-time and -distance friend, mentor, and inspiration - passed away from complications following open-heart surgery. Kaaren was the lead “sewing guru” (as Bob Clardy is the “computer guru”) behind both the DressShop and the My Pattern Designer pattern-design computer programs. Together with a dedicated band of sewing, technical, and support people, Kaaren was the wise one who answered even “senior-moment” questions, walked users through the steps to create garments that fit all shapes and sizes, and inspired an awesome array of creative projects.

We can’t replace Kaaren. What we can do best in the months and years to come is to continue the work she led. In that vein: the Custom-fit Software SIG of Philadelphia ASG is planning to meet in St. Davids on Tuesday, August 14. Please mark your calendar and save the date; details of the meeting will be forthcoming, closer to the 14th.

Marj Jensen