Spring Issue: June 1 to August 30

Letter from Foothills Art Society President Jenn Bilow

                                  First, a few thank yous. I would like to thank everyone who made the Arnie Sauther Scholarship fund a huge success.  Thank you to Bev, Linda, Nancy, and Cathy for their hard work. Thank you to all the artists who donated works of art and mostly thank you to everyone who donated to our cause. 

                                  We have successfully set up a very rewarding scholarship fund. Three one hundred dollar scholarships were given to graduating seniors continuing their education in the arts at the Robideau-Lamitee King Art Exhibit on May 13. The event hosted by forARTSake, and FOOTHILLS honors Norbert Robideau, a revered local photographer, and retired art teacher Karen Lamite-King. Thank you to the Robideau family and Karen for their continued support of this  exceptional exhibit.                                                                                             Next, The Zucchini Brothers were awesome.  Thank you to Janet, Julia , and Tammy, our children’s program committee, for a great job. Thank you to Stewart’s Shops for sponsoring the show and to everyone who grooved to the Zucchini Brothers cool tunes.                         

                                   Last, a huge thank you to Save the Humans.  FOOTHILLS' coffee house in March at NCCC was a huge success. We had our largest turnout to date with a crowd that was as eclectic as the band itself.  Great job Susy and Nancy.                                    

                              The next few months are very busy for everyone, including FOOTHILLS. We have some great programs starting in May and continuing through the summer.  Holy Family School will host the Young Artists in Action 3 to be held at forARTSake from May 20th – 31st.  The exhibit will display artwork from our primary and secondary students reflecting “Beauty in Everything”.  The financial success of Young Artists in  Action has enabled FOOTHILLS to create our children’s workshop program.  Please join us for the children’s reception  Friday, May 30th.  There is nothing more special than young  children’s enthusiasm.                                                                                                  In June, FOOTHILLS will welcome David Taylor Dance Theatre from Colorado to Malone.  Local artist, Kristin  Glazier with three professional dancers from her theater will perform on Sunday, June 8. The dancers will lead a children’s workshop on Saturday, June 7th.  The children participating in the workshop will have a part in the dance performance. My daughter Grace said it best when she exclaimed, “Mommy, I get to dance with real dancers!”  Don’t miss this special event.                                                               Franklin County will celebrate its Bicentennial on June 14.  FOOTHILLS will honor the event with Open Hand Theatre, a puppet group from Syracuse NY.  Two fifteen foot puppets leading forty children with hand made puppets down Main Street to the fairgrounds for a fifty-minute puppet performance are just the highlights. See you there!                                    FOOTHILLS invites everyone interested in the arts to our Annual Meeting on June 18 at St. Lucia’s Café.  We will be welcoming our new board members and saying good-bye to our old ones.  Thank you to Suzy Cantwell and Pamela May for their  time and dedication. Join us from 6 to 8 PM for refreshments and a quick re-cap of 2007 and our goals for 2008.                                                                                        The FOOTHILLS Board has         successfully met our goals for 2007.  In 2008, membership will continue to be a priority.  Our annual membership drive, led by membership chairs, Carol McClain and Ellen Mainville will start in June. We will be sending a letter citing your membership and input for future programs. FOOTHILLS has tripled its membership in the last year. It is our goal to double that number this year. The board  understands that your support and participation are the foundation of                FOOTHILLS ARTSociety and necessary for continued growth.                                                                                               Looking ahead, FOOTHILLS will be partnering with the Malone Recreation Park in July and August to bring a six-week art program to local children. Area artists will offer free workshops, such as drawing nature up close, landscape painting, dancing, mosaic art with objects from nature, and journaling.

                             The last Saturday in July, FOOTHILLS is organizing the Chateaugay Lakes Arts Festival.  The event promises  top-notch artisans, demonstrations, and fun for the entire family. 

                                 In July, August, and September, FOOTHILLS will be hosting Artist in the Garden as well as, our signature event,  Whimsical Women.  Be sure to mark these creation days on the  calendar – they are supportive, inspiring and a lot of fun.  

                                      Enjoy summer. I hope we have  nurtured your creativity or your children’s                    as we continue to “Celebrate the Arts”.