Alice Fae Weiland has long been a cornerstone to the Whitley County Extension Community Arts Center. Her unwavering dedication to preserving the art of basket weaving through the Extension Community Arts Center’s basket program has touched countless lives. With thousands of volunteer hours under her belt, Alice Fae has worked tirelessly to ensure this traditional craft continues to thrive.
Because of her generous volunteerism, the Extension office has been able to offer basket weaving classes at a fraction of the usual cost, charging only for materials. While similar classes typically cost around $120, thanks to Alice Fae, participants have paid an average of just $30. This has resulted in more than $10,000 in collective savings for community members, making the program accessible to individuals who may otherwise never have had the opportunity to participate.
At 84-years-old, Alice Fae continues to inspire those around her with her boundless energy and passion. Even after a recent cancer diagnosis, she remains undeterred spending her days weaving baskets, gardening, and surrounding herself with loved ones.
On Tuesday, April 29, her partner, Jim Moss, hosted an early surprise birthday celebration in her honor. The event drew a large crowd, including Williamsburg Director of Tourism Alvin Sharpe and guests from Louisville, Knoxville, and Georgia. Williamsburg Mayor Roddy Harrison and his wife Maria also stopped by to wish her a happy birthday.
During the celebration, Community Arts Agent Cortney Moses presented a commemorative plaque, which will be permanently displayed at the Arts Center. The plaque features a quote and image from a documentary produced by Western Kentucky University’s film graduate program, highlighting Alice Fae’s contributions and life story.
Alice Fae Weiland exemplifies resilience, community spirit, and an unwavering commitment to service. This celebration was just a small token of gratitude from those whose lives she has touched, and a reminder that her impact reaches far beyond what words, or a single event can express. She is, without question, the embodiment of perseverance and purpose.
