From left to right: Jenny Van Sickle, Kathy Laakso, Gina Thorsen, Teddie Meronek, and Briana Fiandt. Stormy Kromer
What's happening: Stormy Kromer has donated $12,900 to Friends of the Fitz, a Superior, Wisconsin, organization working to install a historical marker at the Edmund Fitzgerald's final port of call. The money was raised from sales of a limited-edition cap launched to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
About the cap: The commemorative cap featured a custom leather patch and special navy/black colorway. The cap sold out in record time both in-store and online in mid-July, according to Stormy Kromer officials. For every cap sold, the company pledged $20 to Friends of the Fitz to support their mission for a Wisconsin Historical Society marker.
What they're saying: "We knew this project would resonate with our community, but we were blown away by the overwhelming response," said Gina Thorsen, CEO of Stormy Kromer. "It's an honor to support this meaningful effort and help ensure the legacy of the Fitzgerald and her crew is preserved for generations to come."
About Friends of the Fitz: The group was formed in the summer of 2024 and dubbed 2025 as the Year of the Fitz, gaining publicity for efforts to raise money to purchase and install a historical marker to honor the loss of the famous ship and its crew. The marker will be installed on Barker's Island. A commemoration ceremony is planned for Nov. 9, 2025, at Barker’s Island.
"This generous donation got our fundraising across the finish line and shows just how powerful regional partnerships can be," said Jenny Van Sickle, a member of Friends of the Fitz. "We're incredibly grateful to Stormy Kromer and to every person who bought a cap to support our mission."
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