We are saddened to hear that Toika Bridges has passed away. Lauriejo Raymond sent us this beautiful tribute to Toika:
Our fellow beader, pattern designer and writer, Toika Bridges went to be with the Lord on Wed. April 15, 2009. Toika was recognized nationally for her Delica bead patterns and her Internet business selling pens and other items for beaders to use in creating specialty items. Her love for the arts was unsurpassed and she was a real jack of all trades. Toika had a thirst for learning, and especially helping others to know "how to" do specific arts and crafts projects. Her love for writing is obvious as she submitted many "how to" articles over the years. Toika's most recent article, "How to color Fireline," was published in the April 2009 issue of Bead&Button. Toika will best be remembered for her kind heart, her love of working with Delica beads, and her custom-designed small beaded vessels. Her love of Chinese architecture and design was present in many of her creations. Let us remember her passion for the arts, and for her willingness to share her vast knowledge with others crafters. She will be dearly missed in the arts community. May her legacy survive through her wonderful bead patterns.