Mentor, Ohio Student Wins $50,000 in Jo-Ann Prom Contest

HUDSON, Ohio Oct. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, the leading fabric and craft specialty retailer in America, is pleased to announce the winner of the 2010 Own Your Look, Own Your Future prom contest.  Congratulations to Sarah Lottes of Mentor, Ohio who created the winning prom dress!  Lottes received a $50,000 check and $1,000 Jo-Ann Gift Card during a pep rally at Lake Catholic High School, where she is currently a senior.

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"Sarah's dress stood out among the more than 2,800 entries submitted for the superior quality of her workmanship, combined with beautiful layering and stitching," noted Michelle Christensen, vice president general merchandise manager, sewing for Jo-Ann Stores.  

In January, Jo-Ann challenged students to create a prom garment and accessory for the chance to win $50,000 cash.  The garments were judged in three rounds by sewing experts, including Project Runway Season Five contestant, Suede.  The dresses created by these entrants were evaluated based on workmanship, skill level, originality and level of detail.  

Jo-Ann hosts the competition yearly to reward the next generation of sewers and inspire those across the country to express their creativity.  "The level of skill and amazing detail shown in so many of the entries was yet again remarkable.  All of the participants should be extremely proud of the garments they created," Christensen stated.  

Second Place honors went to Elaine Oquendo of Orlando, Florida, who received $10,000 cash and a $500 Jo-Ann Gift Card.  The Third Place winner was Grace Raines of Alexander, New York, who received $5,000 cash and a $250 Jo-Ann Gift Card.  The Runner-up Finalists in this year's competition:

To see all of this year's entries, visit www.joann.com/prom.  And, watch for details in stores and online on how to enter the 2011 Own Your Look Prom Contest beginning January 9, 2011.

About Jo-Ann Stores, Inc.

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores (NYSE: JAS) the nation's largest fabric and craft retailer with locations in 48 states, was founded in 1943 as a single retail store. Today, more than 750 Jo-Ann stores across the country provide consumers with creative inspiration. For additional information, visit www.Joann.com.

SOURCE Jo-Ann Stores, Inc.