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Once upon a time, there was a little gnome who lived in a garden that, in season, was full of lush plants and bright colors. But, alas, when this story opens, winter has cast an icy grip over the land, and the lovely garden has gone dormant. The plants had been cut back, the trees […]

Today, I went to a workshop on oil paints at the Partners in Art studio in North Tonawanda. The workshop, which lasted for three hours, was taught by  Joan Horn, who is a co-founder of Partners in Art. Information presented in the class included paints, brushes, and painting surfaces, as well as the care of

On Wednesday, in between photo shoots, I asked Vienna Laurendi Haak to tell me about the autism support group that she runs in Grand Island, New York. This is what she told me about this group that provides community for families of kids with special needs. How and when did the autism support group get

Note: I am currently enrolled in an online photography master class that is being taught by professional portrait photographer Annie Liebovitz. She has had her work published in many different magazines, including Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, and The New York Times. She has also shown in a number of galleries, including the National Portrait Gallery

On Saturday, January 27th, I went to a wellness fair that was organized by Grand Island’s small business group. It was a way to promote the businesses and the various service organizations in a fun atmosphere. I was told that the goal was to make this an annual event. The event was held at Key

Today, I went to Grand Island’s winter farmers’ market at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Chili was being served, and a variety of products were available for sale, as well. The displays were cheery and colorful and served to entice people to buy local when purchasing food.  At this time of year, the fields lie

A photograph of Grover Cleveland adorns the living room. Grover Cleveland, who is counted as two presidents (the 22nd and the 24th) because he was the only president in U.S. history to serve to nonconsecutive terms, was the nephew of Lewis F. Allen, who, at one time, owned a large piece of the southern tip

Dear Readers, I have really enjoyed sharing the story of an artist (weaver and retired art teacher Lee Tetkowski). I am grateful for the comments that you have made about this remarkable lady. I also thank Lee for opening her home and her life to me, for sharing stories over cups of tea, and for

Today, it was warmer. The snow still covers my garden but much of the snow has melted away. Soon, the deep freeze will return. The garden is still a distant dream. Last Thursday, I went to Stella Niagara for a painting class. It was the first of a two-week floral painting series. Last week, we

January 31st is Inspire Your Heart with Arts Day. I didn’t know that until a few hours ago. It’s not a holiday that is widely known or well advertised. I love the idea of having a holiday that’s dedicated to inspiring hearts. Sooooo…. put this on your calendar to celebrate next year. There are so