I think that perhaps Janome in order to compete needed to change it's imge a bit. I loved my Janome machines but changed to Brother a few years ago and have not regretted it. I think from experience that this may be happening a lot more than we know. Kaye has been in the business for some time and we loved her; but a newer generation of sewers and quilters just might be reached by Marie. I think we should not judge companies by their celebrity image, of course; but I also think we should not be too judgemental.