News of
Happy Merry s a m t s i r h C
www.newsofkingspoint.com
December 2010
KPAL Students Shine at Show By NOKP Staff They say that experience is the best teacher; but, if the quality of the work at the Teacher’s Pet Art Show is any indication, the instructors at the Kings Point Art League are pretty good too! The Teacher’s Pet Art Show, held this past November 16 and 17 in the Kings Point Banquet Room, showcased the best work submitted by the 60-plus student artists currently studying with the Kings Point Art League. The show was open to students who had taken at least one class through KPAL in the past two years. “Some of the artists had been studying under KPAL instructors for 2 or 3 years,” said show coordinator Diane Simon, “But others have only been with us for a few weeks.” Whether weeks or years, these students sure know their stuff. Many different styles and subjects were represented: still life, bucolic and breathtaking natural scenes, family portraits and man’s best friend. There were watercolor and acrylic entries, as well as some truly innovative styles – such as a
“woven canvas” portrait. Attendees sipped drinks and nibbled on snacks as they strolled the aisles searching for their favorite piece or art. Certificates were awarded for people’s choice, excellence and outstanding student of the year – though winner names were not available at press time. Criticisms were few, but accolades were many as appreciative show guests gasped, grinned and marveled at their favorites, or the one’s that touched their hearts. The artists on hand were their own harshest critics, pointing out where they wished they had done something “differently” or “better.” But, though the paintings may not have been the work of the great masters, they were certainly well worth hanging in any of our homes to enjoy for years to come. And, who knows, as these talented students continue to study, they might just bloom into a Monet or grow into a Rembrandt. But, whether or not one of these Continued on Page 2
Works of Art From the Heart By NOKP Staff It began as an opportunity to show a few lonely people that someone cared. It became a movement that brought shared warmth and joy to thousands across two counties. For Jill Wiza and the staff at the Senior Living Guide, the Blanket Project, which started in May and ends this month, has already been an overwhelming success. The premise was simple: collect 500 handmade lap blankets and distribute them to seniors in need of some warmth and love. The call went out and hundreds from across Hillsborough and Pinellas counties responded. The blankets – and the stories – came flooding in. There were the teenagers, many who had never knitted or crocheted before. The kind soul who, at 101, understood more than many what it was to lose those you love. Then there was the group of 6 ladies from Rocky Creek Village in Tampa who made 150 blankets in 150 days. One of these folks was 96. “It’s astounding,” said Wiza, “When you consider that, on average,
Inside
one blanket takes 21 hours to make.” Senior Living’s staff has been involved in the project every step of the way. Marketing the idea. Providing materials. Delivering blankets. And the blanket makers have kept them hopping, dedicating days of work on a project just to give it to a stranger – 1,000 times over. There is a bulletin board up in the Senior Living office spilling over with photos of people involved in all facets of the project – and more pictures keep coming in,
Front Row (l to r): Marie Wilmouth, Betty Plante, Margaret Spero, Fran Tiedemann, Back Row (r to l): Bev Hurley, Shirley Johnson, Shelby Takala, Verna King, Pat Connelly, D’Etta Jones, Felicia Nixon, Jill Wiza
turning the wall into a mosaic mural of warmth and joy. Of course, the blankets themselves are also works of art, each one a masterpiece. “They are truly beautiful,” says Wiza, “Each one unique with, we like to say, a hug in every stitch.” Recently, a luncheon was held to celebrate the success of the Blanket Project at Homewood Residence Assisted Living in Sun City Center. Bev Hurley, Marketing Manager at Homewood, was justifiably
CARE................................ 8 Jim & Nell Taze Crossword..................... 25 ? For Catherine............... 7 33573.........13, 14, 15 & 16 Contract Bridge............ 25 Just Ask Anne ................ 9 Dixon’s...................20 & 21 Sudoku........................... 25 Horticulture Column Day Trips Golf................................ 11 Bulletin...................22 & 23 Horoscopes................... 27 Deputy Chris.................. 12 Poem Submission ........ 24 Solutions to Puzzles....... 27
proud of her residents’ response to the opportunity. “I put this out to the community, and the response was fabulous!” The day of the celebration luncheon, Bev collected 74 handmade lap blankets – and tons of stories to go with them. “What an outpouring!” she said, “We have heard so many touching stories from both contributors and recipients. We all know how good it feels to cuddle up with something warm and cozy Continued on Page 5
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