As a long time LeMoyne Arts board member and the artists' representative, I recognize the importance of having a local venue dedicated to the visual arts. With a new exhibit nearly every month and classes for children to adults, you need to visit LeMoyne! I exhibit my latest ornaments at the annual holiday show as well as my wood jewelry and other items in the gallery shop. We are excited about the improvements made to the garden and new Education Center.

Barkus is a celebration of all things dogs and Mardi Gras, benefiting our canine companions and featuring a costumed dog parade. Every year the community outdoes itself to support the event. Come down to Apalachicola for the day or the weekend for food, fun, and art. This year it will be held February 22.

The Chain of Parks Arts Festival is held every year in April in downtown Tallahassee, typically on the third weekend of the month. Featuring over 160 artists from around the country, it is a lovely event in the beautiful downtown Tallahassee Chain of Parks. Every year the Chain of Parks organization develops new enhancements, including chalk street artists. Check out the website. 2025 marks my sixteenth year participating. This year it will be held April 26-27.

I returned to the Downtown Festival and Art Show in 2023. Held annually on the streets of downtown Gainesville, I always look forward to returning to where I lived for 17 years to see some great friends and meet new people. It's a blast!

Market Days is an annual fund raising event for the Tallahassee Museum. Join us in 2024 on December 7 and 8 at the Leon County fairgrounds. Over 300 vendors come stocked with items suitable for holiday gifts. Hope to see you there!

After a one year absence, I returned to the Three Rivers Arts Festival in 2019. It is always a great opportunity to see friends and family and experience art and music in a wonderful setting. I first exhibited there in 1976 and look forward to going back whenever I can.