Moving in the School of Arts

The School of Visual and Performing Arts (SVPA) in Stroudsburg, PA celebrated a Grand Reopening of their Gallery facilities with an Artists’ Reception on Saturday June 21st featuring an exhibition the incredible talents of local artists titled, “An Artistic Movement.” The evening included multicultural music performed to enhance the mood, a performance of dance along with a communal dance improvisation, and an art raffle. A large gathering filled the spacious school with the excitement of rediscovering a renewed venue to explore the arts.

A joyous vitality filled the air as the wonders inherent in the pieces presented throughout the school inspired words of adoration and delightful amazement to be shared during the numerous conversations that transpired during the course of the evening. The sounds of drumming and flute emanating from the instruments of musicians Michael G. Williams and Babakeino Anderson enhanced the mood and nature of these social intercourses. Their lively hypnotic rhythms entreated each converser to move their words gently along the concepts they sought to convey until their spoken words desired to become transcended through the communicative form of dance as evident in the swaying to and fro seen among the denizens throughout the night.

It was in the midst of the dancing chats did the gallery’s director Jody Singer take a microphone in hand in order to verbalize the school’s appreciative welcome to the multitude of art lovers who were present. He concluded his remarks with an introduction of Emiko Okamoto of The Galumpha Dance Company who performed a piece along with John Laguio titled, “Floating” which was Choreographed by one of The School of Visual and Performing Arts’ founders, Kathy Kroll. The performance was exquisite as the dancers moved their forms upon the air with the aide of draperies attached to the studio’s ceiling. The work gave each experiencer of it the sensation of flight not only inducing the physical dimensions of their forms to become uplifted but their spirits and souls as well.

The Galumpha Dance Company was formed by Andy Horowitz and Greg O’Brien in 2002 bringing to life a world of imagination, beauty, muscle, and merriment. Many of their performances include the elements of the acrobatic, physical comedy, and inventive choreography with all creating a sensory feast of images ranging from the ridiculous to the sublime. The company has received a number of awards including The Edinburgh Festival Critics’ Choice Award and The Moers International Comedy Arts Prize. Their work has been seen on a number of television shows including The Late Show with David Letterman. You can learn more about The Galumpha Dance Company by exploring their website at www.galumpha.com.

The performance concluded as conversations inspired by it consumed the studio. The effects of the performance led many to take another look at the nearly 100 pieces presented throughout the school in order to see them afresh through their newly opened eyes. The music performed by Michael G. Williams and Babakeino Anderson resumed and a deeper resonance was felt in the heart of each listener. Some time had passed until Mr. Singer took to the microphone once again to introduce Kathy Kroll who shared her welcoming sentiments with the gathering.

 It was at this point did Ms. Kroll invite those who wished to participate in the Improvised Dance Demonstration to do so. It began as one participant moved onto the floor in a manner he/she felt expressive of their present state of being and to stop thus allowing another participant to follow in their aesthetic footsteps until the were moved to become motionless and thereby inspiring another participant to follow him/her. This continued until the nearly 30 participants who consisted of those among the gathering who proved to be slightly more adventurous than the rest took their creative place upon the floor. They were then guided to movements by Ms. Kroll of which they did so by incorporating their own individualized interpretation to the suggestion. The entirety of the demonstration brought both an outer and inner smile to those who witnessed it enhancing the perception of their own creative abilities.

It was some time after the demonstration did the evening’s raffle take place. Shane Izykowski took the microphone to echo the sentiments expressed through the conversations that permeated the evening regarding the high caliber of quality and creativity found in the work presented upon the school’s walls as well as the thoroughly inspiring performances shared throughout the evening. It was then when members of the gathering were invited to come forth in order to pick numbered ticket from the cups that were placed before the creative endeavors some of the artists who participated in the exhibit donated for the raffle whose proceeds benefited the school and all it has to offer the community. An anticipatory excitement rose to fever pitch as each number was called until the final digit ignited a cry of ecstasy from the individual who held the winning ticket.

It was after the final number of the final ticket was called and the corresponding piece collected did the evening begin its journey toward its conclusion. However, the journey’s end led to another beginning as those who slowly left the school shared the desire to return in order to explore the work during its business hours and to explore their creativity by enrolling in the educational opportunities the facility has offer. The evening proved to be a wonderful Grand Reopening event as it not only re introduced the school to the creative community but it also reopened the hearts of those who love the arts so they could experience it through even wider horizons. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Artists’ Reception in The SVPA 2014 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152519973960421.1073741905.636000420&type=1.

The School of Visual and Performing Arts is located in Stroudsburg, PA and has been instrumental in the creative development of its students for over 20 years. The facility holds classes in dance, ballet, and movement led by Diane Verdi, Paul Heeschen, and Kathy Kroll as well as classes in the theater arts led by Jazmin Ospa and Shelie Bransford. The school also offers a number of workshops with each focusing on a number of creative disciplines. You can learn more about The School of Visual and Performing Arts by exploring their Website at www.schoolofvisualandperformingarts.org.

The exhibition titled, “An Artistic Movement” will be on display in The School of Visual and Performing Arts until July 12th. Their next exhibit is titled, “Loops and Hoops” and an Artists’ Reception is scheduled for Saturday July 19th beginning at 6pm. All area artists are welcomed to participate by placing their work related to the theme in the exhibit.  The drop off dates are July 10th and 11th. Please contact Jody Singer at mountainsidearts@hotmail.com for more information.

Let’s Dutot by The River

The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery in Delaware Water Gap, PA held an Artists’ Reception on Friday June 13th for “The Riv11 - The Delaware River - A Big Picture” Exhibition featuring the work of a variety of artists. The exhibition is an annual event inviting area artists to share their unique vision and interpretation of the Delaware River which runs from the town of Jefferson, NY into the Delaware Bay near Philadelphia, PA before entering the Atlantic ocean. It is the largest river near the eastern coastline of the United States.

A gentle flow of art lovers trickled into the gallery like the rain drops that fell from the day’s sky. A sizable pool of concentrated thoughts was created as each work and its qualities were awash in their explorations. The aesthetically enhanced nature of the inspired conversations reflected the joy one feels while experiencing the intricacies of a babbling brook as each piece presented in the show revealed the artist’s love for the river while immersing the viewer in its beauty and profundity. These aquatic elements enticed the imagination as the stories they conveyed could become keepsakes in the everlasting realms of memory.

Yet, as captivating as these depictions of the mighty Delaware River were, a great deal of attention was given to the very young artists whose work created under the instruction of Jill Swersie were on display. The already astounding exhibit was enhanced by their creative injections of youthful exuberance that were emitted through the uncanny nature of their newly discovered abilities. There were a number of innovatively inventive aspects embodied in some of the pieces which indicated the list of things one can not do as an artist had not as yet been fully developed. A special exhibit featuring the work of children ages 6 - 16 titled, “The Riv-Kids Art Show” will be on display at The Historic Castle Inn in Delaware Water Gap, PA www.facebook.com/historiccastleinn on June 28th and 29th during the town’s Founder’s Day Celebration.

As was with the work presented, the Artists’ Reception for The Riv11 - The Delaware River - A Big Picture exhibition filled the souls of those who came to experience it with a variety of sensations ranging from a deep reverence for the life changing qualities of the river to a exploratory frivolity of getting one’s feet wet just to see what the water is like. The work presented in the exhibition reflected the many variant tides of the Delaware River as well as those found throughout our lives thus making it an enjoyable and meaningful one to visit. The exhibition will be on display at the gallery until June 29th. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Reception in The Dutot 2014 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152447565060421.1073741899.636000420&type=1.

The Riv11 - The Delaware River - A Big Picture exhibition is part of an annual event created by the Delaware River Project who encourages attendees to the exhibit to explore the Delaware River through multiple artistic perspectives. Since its beginning in 2003, The Delaware River - A Big Picture has showcased the works of local and regional fine artists, poets, and musicians through a series of events dedicated to the river. You can learn more about the Delaware River Project and view images presented in previous exhibitions by visiting their website at www.iriv.wordpress.com/riv-show.

A book titled, “So the River flows…. Voices from the Delaware” is inspired by the exhibition. It is an anthology of the history, art, science, and recreation associated with the Delaware River. The book will be available during the 2014 Christmas season at www.worldoneriver.org where one can sign up to be notified of its availability.

The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery originated as a brick school house built c. 1850 by Antoine Dutot who founded the town of Dutotsville before it was renamed to Delaware Water Gap, PA. In addition to the exhibitions presented at the gallery, the museum offers tours and educational opportunities for those who would like to learn more about the area. Their next exhibition will be for their Women’s Show beginning with an Artists’ Reception on Friday July 4th and will continue to be displayed until July 20th. Please Explore The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/DutotMuseumAndGallery?fref=ts for more information.

COTA is a Many Splendored Thing

The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) held its general meeting at The Deer Head Inn in Delaware Water Gap, PA www.facebook.com/deerhead.inn on Monday June 9th to plan their 37th Annual Jazz and Arts Festival which is scheduled to be held September 5th - 7th. A sizable gathering of friends who shared the love for the musical form and the camaraderie it inspired slowly began to form as the commencement of the meeting grew nearer with every minute that past. The din of reacquainting conversations filled the room until a gavel was enthusiastically struck so news and thoughts regarding this years festival could be explored.

The first item on the agenda was the official revealing of the new COTA Poster created by Tim Helman. The remaining detailed work which was discussed during the meeting in May was now completed and it was announced some preliminary distribution of the poster can now begin. Several members of the company eagerly approached those who were in charge of the task of mapping out areas where posters would be placed so they could participate in the process of sharing the word about COTA with others.

Other announcements made during the meeting included information for those who would like to support the festival by purchasing advertising space in the event’s program so one can share one’s information with the many who will read it of the online availability to do so. It was also announced advanced tickets to the festival are available to be bought online at a discount. Those who wish purchase advertising space and/or discounted tickets are encouraged to visit the www.cotajazz.org website which has been recently redesigned and contains a great deal of information relating to the festival.

As if this exciting news wasn’t plentiful enough, there were still more announcements to greet the ears of those who eagerly awaited to hear them. They included an $18,000 Grant that was received by the Hughes Foundation, endeavors to create an enhanced presence in the realm of internet social mediums, the ability for those who wish to support COTA through their purchase of non festival items through www.smile.amazon.com, and a spot in the food court that is currently is open for a non profit organization who would like to share their culinary skills with festival goers.

However, the grandest of all of the news that was shared was that of COTA obtaining an official office space which is located in The Castle Inn in Delaware Water Gap, PA. The office (at the time of the meeting) consisted of a number of unpacked boxes filled with items awaiting to be placed upon shelves and other areas so they could be viewed in awe by those who would visit and/or perform the administrative functions needed to bring another wonderful festival year about. A great deal of excitement filled the room as desires to visit the space once it was “moved into” was shared in exuberant whispers.

Many more topics were shared and discussed until the meeting came to its conclusion. However, the adjournment did not vacate the Inn as many lingered in order to share more conversations about the festival and how their lives were in general. The next general meeting scheduled to be held at The Deer Head Inn in Delaware Water Gap will be on Monday July 14th beginning at 6:30pm. The public is invited and encouraged to attend this and all future meetings as all ideas are welcomed and opportunities to participate as volunteers are provided. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Monday June 9th meeting at The COTA Meetings 2014 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152423759645421.1073741897.636000420&type=1.

The mission of The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) is to present and to support the art of jazz in all its forms and historical breadth through youth education, performing arts presentations, scholarship opportunities, and community outreach throughout the Pocono area. Please Explore The Celebration of the Arts Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/COTA-Celebration-Of-The-Arts/234094683405815, their Website at www.cotajazz.org, or by calling 570-424-2210 to learn how you can become a volunteer and to learn for more information all about COTA has to offer.

Partying at The OMN

The Sherman Theater’s Living Room Stroudsburg, PA held their weekly Open Mic Nite event on Sunday June 8th offering an opportunity to the numerous talented individuals and groups to share their gifts with an accepting audience. I arrived late to the event as C’ Rock One Thirteen www.facebook.com/crock113officialmusic was preparing to perform. Many who have witnessed the musician’s expertise with the electric guitar discovered a new dimension to his considerable talents as he strummed song after song on an acoustic guitar. The instrument provided each song he rendered upon the audience with a more subtle quality allowing the composition to be felt as well as heard on a profound level.

C’ Rock One Thirteen was followed to the stage by a newcomer to the event named, Krystal Waltz. The young woman bravely shared her comedy routine with an audience who encouraged her through every utterance and gesture during her first attempt in the genre. She was followed by Guitarist Vinnie Huevos who was accompanied by the event’s co host AP www.facebook.com/APbboxes4u on vocal percussions, Nicholas Desouza on Bass guitar, and Tyler Hartle who sat upon a box he utilized as a percussion instrument. Together, they rocked the house inspiring a great deal of dancing especially during their performance of a bubblegum pop song titled, “Sugar Sugar” which was written by Jeff Barry and Andy Kim in 1969 and performed originally by The Archies who were a virtual band consisting of characters from an animated TV series titled, “The Archie Show” which aired Saturday mornings on The Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) in 1968.

As Vinnie Huevos and company completed their set, the evening’s co host announced a break would soon be taking place. But first, a moment was given to celebrate the birth of Paul Adam Smeltz (yeah that’s me) whose birthday was that day. A cupcake from a pack of Hostess cupcakes was lovingly delivered with a candle atop of it by a poet known as The Carlton as the company of friends sang the happy birthday song which was written by Kindergarten teachers, Mildred and Patty Hill, in 1893. And no, I was not one of their students.

The break was filled with conversations inspired by the evening’s performances that took place up to that point. These verbal exchanges concluded as the poet known as The Carlton took the stage and shared some comedy along with a number of thoughtful poetic pieces as he built an everlasting rapport with the audience. He was followed by Kevin “Tails” Moucha whose a cappella renderings entertained the crowd as the delivery of the songs he sang focus upon the deeper meaning of the words they enveloped. He was followed by a poetic duet known as “Day and Tilly” whose profound and moving poetry expressed a meaning that was embodied in a realm where words are yet to be born. They were followed by Benjamin Ordonez whose commanding voice echoed the poetry’s beat reflecting the pulse of life. He was followed by Melissa Johnson who was joined by co host AP. Together, they sang and danced while bopping the house fantastic with songs ranging from those originating from Imagine Dragons to the Jackson Five.

The official list of performances came to it’s end as electronic music artist Wilbium manned his keyboard and guitar readying the audience for their flight into the netherworlds of the imagination. Trancelike dancing filled the room as each hypnotic note created a melody of translucent dreams. As the music and the experience it inspired came to its conclusion, it was announced there was more time available for the event so those whose names were on the waiting list could share their talents.

The first of these performers was a duet known as “Ryan and Cory” who enlivened the crowd with their tunes. They were followed by a Guitarist known as “James” whose deep lyrics and voice brought a haunting element to the songs he played inspiring their essential qualities to become manifested in the thoughts of those who were touched by them. The evening concluded by a very brief performance given by a Guitarist known as “Geo” who blasted his song upon an audience who soon yearned for another week to pass so they could experience another Open Mic Nite Session. You’ll be able to find more photographs taken during the Sunday June 8th Open Mic Nite Session in The Living Room 2014 Gallery Part 3 at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152343904050421.1073741890.636000420&type=1 and Part 4 at www.facebook.com/forwardian.dude/media_set?set=a.10152489839930421.1073741902.636000420&type=3.

The next installment of the Living Room Open Mic Nite Series will take place on Sunday June 22nd beginning at 7pm with sign ins beginning at 6:30pm. The featured band for the evening will be Kill The Red Queen www.facebook.com/pages/Kill-The-Red-Queen/262246083884298. Musicians, poets, writers, and anyone who would like to share something with a receptive audience are welcomed to do so. You can learn more about The Living Room Open Mic Nite Series by Exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/OpenMicAtTheLivingRoom.

In addition to the Open Mic Nites presented at The Living Room, the venue also holds a Gallery which presents the work of visual artists from around the area. Their current exhibition features the works of Kelly Ann Klee (aka Girl from Mars), Laurinda Faye Rubin, James Chesnick, and Jeff Echevarria and will be on display until June 30th. Their gallery’s next exhibit will be a group show inviting local artists to utilize a steam punk technology theme titled, “1850’s Carnivale.” The work can be presented in any medium and/or style the artist wished to explore. The Artists’ Reception will be held on Saturday July 5th beginning at 6pm and will continue to be on display until July 30th. Submissions of work will be accepted on Thursday July 3rd from 6 until 9pm. Please contact the gallery’s Directors and Curators, Keyaira Lynn Von Dred and Andrew Ozkenel, at 570-421-2808 for more information.

The Living Room is located on Main Street in Stroudsburg, PA next to The Sherman Theater who owns the building. The Living Room is a non-profit artspace and community hub featuring live music, performance, and other events in an intimate setting at affordable prices. Please Explore The Living Room Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/The-Living-Room/123978921059378 for more information on The Living Room, all they have to offer, and how to be a part of it all.

Rambling Upon The Gazebo Blue Grass

A gentle day touched the hearts of the music lovers who gathered upon the grounds of The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain in Delaware Water Gap, PA on Sunday June 8th as they prepared to enjoy another segment of their Summer Gazebo Concert Series. The warm weather and the smell of Hot Dogs cooking on a grill combined with the congenial nature of the greetings shared among members of the sizable crowd as they placed their chairs and blankets upon the freshly mowed lawn. The conversations inspired by the day quieted as the evening’s host, Jim Dellaria, stepped upon the stage in order to share his welcoming words and to introduce the eagerly awaited musicians to their audience.

The Lost Ramblers is often seen by the many who have come to enjoy their performances strolling around festival sites while playing their renditions of Bluegrass compositions. It is a rare occurrence to see the group of musicians who consists of Neil Armstrong on Vocals and Guitar, John Updike on Banjo and Vocals, Jim Schaefer on Upright Bass, and Dave Husic on Fiddle standing stationary upon a stage but such a sight enhanced the enjoyable nature of their performance. However, what is not rare is the groups ability to softly touch the deep wells of the earthy aspects of the listener’s soul through songs originating from eras that transcend the times they were written. A contemplative gaze could be seen upon many of the faces in the audience only to be interrupted by the demonstrated desire to engage in toe tapping, hand clapping, and their voices as they sang along during several of the songs that inspired a communal response. What a great way to spend an afternoon.

The Summer Gazebo Concert Series at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain (PCOM) began in 1990 and is presented every Sunday evening throughout the Summer months until the end of August in order to support the local musicians and provide a venue where all ages could learn to appreciate Jazz and acoustic music. In reflection of Delaware Water Gap, PA being considered a Mecca for the Jazz community, the concerts has a great number of Jazz performances in their schedule. However, all musical styles are showcased during the summer which includes Blue Grass and Classical Music. The next installment in The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Summer Gazebo Concert Series for 2014 is scheduled for Sunday June 22nd and will feature Vinny Bianchi and Jazz Juice (It’s Good for You). The concert is free to the public and begins at 6pm. You’ll be able to find more photographs taken during The Lost Ramblers concert in The PCOM 2014 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152489811720421.1073741901.636000420&type=1.

According to their website, The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain is “… a community of disciples illuminated by God’s love who care for others spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially as we explore new avenues of grace and grow in faith through worship and service.” In an endeavor to manifest the goals of this statement, they hold weekly services every Sunday beginning at 10am, provide a hostel for those hikers who travel along the Appalachian Trail as well as holding a Hikers’ Dinner every Thursday evening throughout the Summer Months to replenish their energies. They also support the Kenyan village of Amilo by providing a school feeding program for 15 orphans, a well, housing, and simple medical care and information to the villagers and the church shares a partnership with the Reformed Church located in Cardenaz, Cuba. In addition to all this, they support the local Fire Company and Women’s Resources Center as well as provide community aid funds for residents who are suffering economic burdens. The size of the congregation is approximately 200 people. Please Explore The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/Presbyterian-Church-of-the-Mountain/234593743269661 for more information.

A Living Room as Sweet as Candy

The Sherman Theater’s The Living Room Gallery in Stroudsburg, PA celebrated National candy month with an Artists’ Reception on Saturday June 7th for their June Exhibition featuring the work of Kelly Ann Klee (aka Girl from Mars), Laurinda Faye Rubin, James Chesnick, and Jeff Echevarria. The confectionary colors of the exhibit immediately overwhelmed the senses as the sizable gathering who had come to partake of the evening’s wonders were inspired to utter a number of oooos and ahhhhhs upon their entry into the delectable lair. These verbal expressions of amazement echoed throughout the room until the were slightly quelled by the eager consumption of sweet culinary delights provided by Earthlight Natural Foods www.facebook.com/earthlightnatural, Kitchen Chemistry www.facebook.com/pages/kitchen-chemistry/245276232196, and friends of the gallery who wished to share their sweet baking skills.

The celebration was enhanced by the Willy Wonka theme which was derived from the children’s book titled, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” written by Roald Dahl around 1964. It was followed by a sequel “Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator” and the books became known for their unexpected endings filled with some dark humor. The books inspired two film adaptations. The first of these films was titled, “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” which was directed by Mel Stuart in 1971 and starred Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka. The second film was titled, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” which was directed by Tim Burton in 2005 and starred Johnny Depp as Willy Wonka. Although the stylings of both films were well represented, the cinematic atmosphere created in the 1971 interpretation of the books seemed to hold a slight dominance to The Living Room’s furnishings for the evening.

To enhance the celebratory mood and the theme for the evening, three Golden Tickets (in reference to the plot of the Roald Dahl book) were concealed inside the wrappers of the many Willie Wonka Chocolate Bars that were on sale.  Those who had bought the three bars with the winning tickets inside were awarded with admission to a concert titled, “An Evening with Moe www.moe.org” which is scheduled to take place at The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA on Friday July 28th. A frantic candy grab took place throughout the evening until nearly all of the bars were purchased and delighted yelps were heard from those who found the coveted item.

The sweetness of the evening included the sounds emanating from a guitarist known as SunnyShady who has become a favorite among those who frequent The Living Room’s Open Mic Nite Series held every Sunday evening. The thoughtful and joyous contrasts embodied in his renditions of well established compositions as well as original pieces he shared with the crowd moved skillfully among their waiting ears. The artistic flexibility of the musician was further demonstrated as two unscheduled performers joined him on stage in song. The camaraderie between the three proved to be infectious as the scene as well as the congenial qualities of the songs they performed touched the conversations of the room’s population.

Among the sounds, confectionary delights, and the contestial excitement, the art that was featured in the exhibit flowed together like a syrupy elixir of a concoction filled with dreams. Yet, this flow did not diminished the nuanced qualities found in each artist’s individualized approach to his/her creative endeavors. Instead, it inspired those who became enamored by the entirety of the exhibition to delve deeper into each piece in order to discover its special treats.

The photographic work and digital prints placed on varying surfaces by Laurinda Faye Rubin processes the vibrant sensuality of the flora she captures as each work touches the eye with their visual fragrances. The abstract designs created in the mediums of paint and photography by James Chesnick www.carzwellco.com entreats the mind through their meandering shapes and textures whose bright vibrancy reflects the fullness of life. Although there were only three penciled prints (with two of them included in the raffle drawing) presented by Jeff Echevarria www.facebook.com/echevarria.art.studio, their mythical essence reached into the imagination of all who peered into the figure’s depths only to find a reflection of their own soul within the depiction’s eyes. The exquisite photographic pieces rendered by Kelly Ann Klee (aka Girl from Mars) offered memories that were held gently in their contrasting hues moving our thoughtful dreams through their ever present nostalgia. Ahhh.

As the art and the contemplative conversations it inspired filled the room, the time had come to hold the eagerly awaited Art Raffle which has become an iconic aspect of The Living Room Gallery’s Receptions. All of the artists featured in the exhibit had a number of their creative endeavors available as prizes for the event and all of them drew the tickets indicating who would win these pieces except for Jeff Echevarria who could not be in attendance as his immediate family experienced a profound sadness prior to the reception. A quietness touched the gathering as sympathetic wishes were silently expressed. Still, an exuberant excitement erupted as each winner of the work offered was revealed which celebrated not only the event and the confectioned holiday but life itself. The final prizes in the art raffle were given out and it was this point were concert tickets to those who found the Golden Tickets were awarded.

It was at this time did the gallery’s Directors and Curators, Keyaira Lynn Von Dred and Andrew Ozkenel, share some final sentiments of appreciations and farewells while inviting those who were still present to come to the next Artists’ Reception exploring the fantastical world of steam punk technology. The imaginations of those who learned the preliminary details of the exhibition and were familiar with the term were visibly impressed with the conceptual possibilities. You’ll be able to find more photographs taken during the June Artists’ Reception in The Living Room 2014 Gallery Part 3 at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152343904050421.1073741890.636000420&type=1.

The Sherman Theater’s Living Room Gallery February exhibition featuring the work of Kelly Ann Klee (aka Girl from Mars), Laurinda Faye Rubin, James Chesnick, and Jeff Echevarria will be on display until June 30th. Their next exhibit which will be a group show inviting local artists to utilize a steam punk technology theme titled, “1850’s Carnivale.” The work can be presented in any medium and/or style the artist wished to explore. The Artists’ Reception will be held on Saturday July 5th beginning at 6pm and will continue to be on display until July 30th. Submissions of work will be accepted on Thursday July 3rd from 6 until 9pm. Please contact the gallery’s Directors and Curators, Keyaira Lynn Von Dred and Andrew Ozkenel, at 570-421-2808 for more information.

The Living Room is located on Main Street in Stroudsburg, PA next to The Sherman Theater who owns the building. The Living Room is a non-profit artspace and community hub featuring live music, performance, and other events in an intimate setting at affordable prices. Please Explore The Living Room Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/The-Living-Room/123978921059378 for more information on The Living Room, all they have to offer, and how to be a part of it all.

In addition to their exhibitions, The Living Room presents a weekly Open Mic Nite which occurs every Sunday Evening beginning at 7pm. Musicians, Poets, Writers, and anyone who would like to share their talents with an eagerly accepting audience are welcomed to participate. There is occasionally a featured band or performer scheduled that enhances the enjoyment of the event. You can learn more about The Living Room Open Mic Nite Series on it’s Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/OpenMicAtTheLivingRoom?ref=ts&fref=ts.

The 2014 Pocono Raceway Festival

The Sherman Theater www.facebook.com/ShermanTheater?ref=ts&fref=ts held their 6th Annual Pocono Raceway Festival throughout the town of Stroudsburg, PA on Saturday June 7th to celebrate the approach of the upcoming Pocono 400 NASCAR Race which is part of their Sprint Cup Series.  The event was sponsored by Kalahari Resorts and Conventions of the Poconos www.facebook.com/kalahariresorts which is a resort designed to reflect the flavor of African Plains that will be locating their operation in the Monroe County, PA area in 2015. Activities were plentiful throughout the day and were focused throughout the Main Street area of the town which was blocked off from automobile traffic and was filled with pedestrians, vendors, musicians, and a carnival that included a Ferris wheel and other rides.

I arrived in town an hour or two before the festival began and gained the opportunity to explore the wonders found in the produce and other offerings presented at the weekly Farmers’ market held around the Courthouse Square area of the town. The market is operational every Saturday morning featuring items from local farmers, bakeries, and businesses including The Daily Bakeshop from Mountainhome, PA www.dailybreadbakeshop.com, Pocono Limited Winery from Stroudsburg, PA www.poconolimitedwineryonline.com, and The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resorts in Shawnee on Delaware, PA www.facebook.com/shawneeinnresort who were there to share their wares and provide delicious samplings of their culinary delights while children played among the statuesque cannons created to memorialize the citizens of the area who have fallen in wars past.

After my visit to the market, I spotted Airbrush Artist Peter Ambush who was standing outside The PoconoArts Community Cultural Center www.facebook.com/poconoartscouncil creating an image upon a canvas. He was one of the center’s featured artists for the month of June and the Artists’ Reception focusing upon their work was scheduled to take place later that day. The artists sharing the galley with Mr. Ambush for its June exhibition  are Christine Medley and Ralph White and the winners of the 2014 PoconoArts Members’ Exhibition. I wasn’t sure if the plentiful events of the day would allow me to attend the reception so I ventured inside the gallery to view the work. The work proved to be as captivating as it was varied and I recommend visiting the center to experience the work as many of the pieces presented touches the soul of those who peer into its depth. The exhibition will continue to be on display until June 30th.

I eventually left The PoconoArts Community Cultural Center and made my way to the festival. I didn’t have far to walk as I was immediately met with a plethora of sound coming from the abundance of bands preparing to perform their sets upon the many stages placed throughout Stroudsburg, PA’s Main Street area. While I saw few of what might be considered “Race cars,” I did manage to spy a number of cars whose sporty featured created an interest from those who peeked through their windshields to imagine themselves in their interiors. I, myself, envisioned an excursion along a scenic vista somewhere along the Californian coast with a decadent woman indigenous to the region’s hedonistic culture moving auspiciously toward me while seated wantonly by my side. But, I digress.

I moved from the cars that were on display to partake the sight of sculpted Elephants stationarily roaming the streets as passerbys stopped to have their picture taken by staff members from Kalahari Resorts who were dressed in safari gear. The Pachydermian pleasure embodied in the countenance of those who posed for images to be shared with their friends and family members whom they could relay tales of their jungle adventures with some photographic validity brought a smile to many of the faces belonging to the spectators who viewed the joyful stampede of dreamers. I reluctantly moved from the spot to explore the many offerings presented by the merchants who had set up shop for the day.

These merchants included Dead Head Gifts from Luzerne, PA www.facebook.com/DeadAheadGifts who offered a variety of Tie Dyed apparel along with incense and jewelry reminiscent of the 1960s. Beside their tent, Jazz Saxophonist Adam Neiwood and Percussionist Blake Flemming set up their instruments and began to play an extended improvised composition that flooded the thoughts of those who passed by with a series of extraneous measures filled with notes designed to heighten their perceptions of reality through their confused associations. It was one of those wow experiences that proved to be prevalent during the day.

Other merchants who were present that day included Zuzu Confectionery www.facebook.com/zuzu.confectionery?fref=ts whose prize winning chocolate and fruitful delight pleased the palates of all who partook of their delectable morsels, The Saw Creek Soap Company www.facebook.com/sawcreeksoap who offer a variety of scented soaps made with natural ingredients, and Master’s Gutter Shield Systems www.facebook.com/BestGutterGuard who offers ways to make maintaining a home easier. While many more merchants set up booths throughout the festival grounds, other partook of a certain mobility in order to gain more contact with festival goers. These businesses included Ahh…Sheri Empanadas www.ahhsheri.com whose stuffed pastries are made from Artisan Flours with no GMO, Servo’s Computer Doctors www.facebook.com/pages/Servos-Computer-Doctors/131044033655475 who offer a number of services in repairing or maintaining computers to they’ll operation at their maximum capacity.

Art groups also shared their endeavors during the festival. These included The Theater Studio who are associated with The School of Visual and Performing Arts www.schoolofvisualandperformingarts.org who will premier their new art gallery on Saturday June 21st with their exhibition titled, “An Artistic Movement,” The Pocono Black Box Theater www.facebook.com/thepoconoblackboxtheater who presents a variety of concerts and theatrical productions, The Altar www.facebook.com/TheAltarStudios who provide those who are seeking to enhance their for with body art an opportunity to do so, and Rockn Willys’ Tea and Hookah Lounge (aka The Happy Pipe) www.facebook.com/pages/Rockn-Willys-Tea-Hookah-Lounge/272837069403557 who provides those who enters their domain an opportunity to enjoy the art of relaxation. There were also a number of non profit organizations who encouraged those who attended the festival to reveal their better natures in providing aid in their worth while endeavors.

These non profit organizations included The Pocono Parents of Down Syndrome (PPODS) who serves as a support group for families and intervals who are living with the condition. They also work to reveal the abilities individuals with Down Syndrome have and how they can contribute their skills in ways that are meaningful to both the community and themselves. Their 6th Annual Buddy Walk/Family Fun Day is scheduled to take place on Saturday September 27th during the 2nd Annual Buddy Ride at The Dansburry park in East Stroudsburg, PA.  The group meets at The DES office the 4th Thursday of the month. Please explore their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/ThePPODS for more information.

Along with the offerings from merchants, artists, and non profit organizations, there was music. The festival provided three stages upon which musicians filled every conceivable musical need a festivalgoer could have. The first stage was located near the corner of the town’s 6th and Main Street. It featured Randy Bigness www.randybigness.com and Friends which included Forbidden Dreams www.facebook.com/Forbiddendreammusic. Except for the hard core earth shaking sounds of Forbidden Dreams that moved their audience deeper into the multilayered echoes embodied in every note they played, the majority of the performances reflected the bluesy ballsiness commonly associated with the qualities found in Mr. Bigness’ performances. This kick ass I don’t give a shit style delighted the crowd who lived each day to share the sentiments Mr. Bigness and his friends emanated throughout the day.

The second stage of the festival was located between the town’s 6th and 7th Streets in the alley where the Music in The Park Series takes place. A number of bands and musicians performed throughout the day but, unfortunately, I was unable to experience them all. These included The Juggernaut String Band www.facebook.com/JuggernautStringBand and Brian Xander www.reverbnation.com/brianxander. However, I did manage to catch the straight forward performance given by Kenny Scharlett www.facebook.com/KennyScharlattMusic of some simple country songs, the superbly crafted compositions rendered by the extraordinary Christian Porter www.facebook.com/christianportermusic, and Woodrow www.facebook.com/wearewoodrow who is a duet consisting of Theresa Ratliff on vocals and Brian Bramkamp on vocals and guitar and has performed in a variety of venues include The Sherman Theater’s Living Room during their weekly Open Mic Nites www.facebook.com/OpenMicAtTheLivingRoom which are held on Sunday evenings.

The third stage was located in Front of the Sherman Theater near the 5th street intersection. Again, I was unable to catch all of the performances that day which included Mike Miz and High Strung but I did experience The Ryan Alan Band www.facebook.com/theryanalanband whose kick ass country music pleased the crowd, The Quimby Mountain Band www.facebook.com/quimbymtnband who also thrilled the audience with their no nonsense approach to their straight forward tunes, Joey and the T-Birds www.facebook.com/pages/Joey-and-the-T-Birds/154428035574 whose memorable melodies brought a newness to the nostalgic elements of the songs they composed so long ago, and Bruce in The USA who is a Bruce Springsteen tribute band that capture all the magic the famous musician and his E Street band became loved for.

In addition to the music and other happenings taking place during the festival, a carnival offering rides to children of all ages was present throughout the day. Many screams were heard as thrill seekers grew closer to their hysterical destinations while being swung into the air or being placed in horizontal orbits at dizzying speeds. Damn, it was fun. You’ll find more photographs taken during my day at the festival in the Pocono Raceway Festival 2014 Gallery at  www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152489653940421.1073741900.636000420&type=1.

The 2014 Annual Pocono Raceway Festival was presented as a tribute to the late Doctor Joseph Mattioli who was the founder of The Pocono Raceway which is located in Long Pond, PA.  The Raceway began in 1968 as a three-quarter mile track and later expanded in 1971 to a two and one-half mile track which accommodated 500 mile races such as the one presently presented by NASCAR. Due to many mistakes in its construction which led to some very serious financial difficulties, the raceway was closed but was later reconstructed during the 1990s. In spite of the current energy crisis in which oil and gasoline continues to be depleted at alarming levels, the Raceway continues to entreat automobile racing fans throughout the area and beyond. You can learn more about The Pocono Raceway by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/poconoraceway.

A Finer OMN

The Sherman Theater’s Living Room Stroudsburg, PA the doors to their weekly Open Mic Nite event on Sunday June 1st at 6pm in order to receive the signatures of those who wish to share their talents by placing them upon the establishment’s list at 6:30pm. The performances were scheduled to begin at 7pm. By all accounts, all of this did occurred as preordained but I arrived later than usual to the event and missed these initiating experiences along with a number of performers who took the stage prior to my arrival.

However, when I did arrive, I was greeted by the music of a band known as Finer who where the featured performers for the evening. The band consists of the husband and wife duo of  Stacy Basner and Ethan James who took turns performing on guitar and an electronic keyboard as well as a computerized apparatus with Ms. Basner lending her vocal gifts to the songs they presented to the venue’s appreciative audience. The music they performed proved to be a lively mix resembling those related to the dance or techno music genre but embodying a certain distinction in their lyrical qualities to transcend the mere dance-ability of the popular forms. After performing a number of songs together, hey were joined by musical provocateur, Wilbium, who accompanied them on drums adding a supplemental beat to their musical endeavors.

Although Ms. Basner and Mr. James originated from separate areas of The United States, they both found themselves at the Musician’s Institute in Hollywood, CA where they were attending classes in order to (at first) individually enhance their musical talents. Their love for music soon coupled with a profound love for one another and they (along with their considerable musical talents) became married. They are currently sharing their unique blend consisting of each song containing elements found in danceable music while embodying a soul of its own that is embraced by those who are brought into each composition by the couple’s loving entreatments as they travel on tour to a number of venues. It was fortunate for the denizens of The Living Room’s Open Mic Nite to be a part of their journeys as their musical gifts touched an exuberant chord in those who heard them. You can learn more about Finer and their recent CD titled, “Magic Til The End” by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/finerband.

As the final echoes of Finer were absorbed by the room, a break ensued so the instrumentality of the band could be removed so the following performers would have the space they needed to share their enormous talents. The first of these to present their gifts after the break was Kevin Tails Moucha who sang a number of original pieces a cappella as written upon his laptop computer and was well received by those who felt their words in their hearts. He was followed by Benjamin Ordonez whose powerful delivery of some familiar poems as well as some newer pieces moved among the gathering enabling many to greet their emotions afresh. He was followed by a guitarist known as, “OK Enough” whose powerful rendering of his songs flowed through the audience in their thoughtfulness. He was followed by C’ Rock One Thirteen who began his set upon his electric guitar with a song that had previously been established by another artist and followed his interpretation of the piece with a number of his own soul touching originals.

C’ Rock One Thirteen was followed by Guitarist Vinnie Huevos whose hard hitting and irreverent lyrics never fails to delight the audience. The June 1st Open Mic Nite proved to be no exception as Vinnie rocked the house as a Living Room Denizen known as “Fred” accompanied him on drums. The evening concluded with a performance given by Wilbium who enhanced his well admired instrumental performance by including a number of songs in which he sung. These included some hard hitting Hip Hop along with some compositions that rocked the house as many danced during its quaking semblances. It was during his performance that it was announced the day marked Wilbium’s birthday and the company gladly celebrated in the singing of the traditional song associated with the occasion. It was then those who remained were bided farewell and everyone left with the desire to return the following week to partake of the offerings future Open Mic Nites holds for them. You’ll be able to find more photographs taken during the Sunday June 1st Open Mic Nite Session in The Living Room 2014 Gallery Part 3 at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152343904050421.1073741890.636000420&type=1.

The next installment of the Living Room Open Mic Nite Series will take place on Sunday June 8th beginning at 7pm with sign ins beginning at 6:30pm. Musicians, poets, writers, and anyone who would like to share something with a receptive audience are welcomed to do so. It was during the June 1st event was it announced the Scavenger Hunt to determine who will be a future co host for the events was made with flyers detailing the items to be gathered was distributed among the gathering. You can learn more about The Living Room Open Mic Nite Series and the Scavenger Hunt by Exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/OpenMicAtTheLivingRoom.

In addition to the Open Mic Nites presented at The Living Room, the venue also holds a Gallery which presents the work of visual artists from around the area. Their current exhibition is titled, “Art-ology” and features the work of artists from around the area. Their next exhibit will take place in June featuring the works of Kelly Ann Klee (aka Girl from Mars), Laurinda Faye Rubin, James Chesnick, and Jeff Echevarria. The Artists’ Reception will take place Saturday June 7th beginning at 6pm and will  celebrate National candy month: Willy Wonka Style. Music will be provided by SunnyShady and candy will be provided by Earthlight Natural Foods along with a golden ticket contest and an art raffle. The exhibition will continues to be on display until June 30th. Please contact the gallery’s Director and Curators, Keyaira and Drew Ozkenel, at 570-421-2808 for more information.

The Living Room is located on Main Street in Stroudsburg, PA next to The Sherman Theater who owns the building. The Living Room is a non-profit artspace and community hub featuring live music, performance, and other events in an intimate setting at affordable prices. Please Explore The Living Room Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/The-Living-Room/123978921059378 for more information on The Living Room, all they have to offer, and how to be a part of it all.

A Gentle Gazebo Among the Reeds

A cool breeze modified the prelude of a warm Summer day as music lovers gathered upon the grounds of The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain in Delaware Water Gap, PA on Sunday June 1st to partake of the fist of their gazebo concerts for the 2014 season. Those who have attended the series throughout the years eagerly dusted off their folding chairs and blankets of the chilled environs in which they were stored during the wintry months and seated themselves in order to embrace the warmth of the day and the conversations they shared with their fellow concert goers. Hot dogs were being prepared and snacks were set out by loving hands as the evening’s host, Bonnie Childs, took the stage to welcome moderately sized audience to the event.

Her words enhanced the warmth of the event as she included some celebratory words reflecting the Church’s acquisition of a new pastor, The Reverent Sherry Blackman, who will be their spiritual leader for many years to come. It was after these sentiments were the evening’s performers introduced to the waiting crowd. Jazz duo Spencer and Nancy Reed took their guitars in hand and began to play while accompanied by Paul Hubbell on Saxophone. Together, their musical renderings made a gentle afternoon an even more gentler one as the vocalizations presented my Spencer combined with the lyrical phrasings eluding from his wife, Nancy, flowed at varying speeds while Mr. Hubbell added an ambiance to the compositions through the deft tonal interpretations of his instrument.

It was during the mesmeric performance did the duo welcome Najwa Parkins of the After Hours Trio www.facebook.com/NajwaParkinsAndTheAfterHoursTrio to the stage. Ms. Parkins’ soft piercing voice immediately injected its healing properties into the essence of the song titled, “Summertime” which is from the George Gershwin 1935 opera titled, “Porgy and Bess.” She later joined her vocal gifts with those of Ms. Reeds’ to form a heavenly duet which led the audience upon a wonderful journey filled with melodious vistas to rest their listening ears upon.

A break ensued so those who experienced the musical wonders of the day had a chance to share the words reflecting their enhanced moods with one another and to partake of the culinary offerings of the day. The break ended as Nancy stood upon the stage with her guitar to share her rendition of the Jazz classic titled, “Take Five” that was composed by Paul Desmond and first performed by The Dave Brubeck Quartet in 1959. She was later re joined by Paul and Spencer and together they continued their renditions of beloved jazz melodies until the concert came to a conclusion.

Nancy and Spencer Reed are well known for their unique brand of vocal and instrumental styling. Their vocal blend, phrasings, and harmonies has been enjoyed by audiences throughout their 30 year career of performing in a variety of venues both indoor and out. Their performance at the June 1st concert at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain’s Gazebo proved to be an excellent beginning of the series as the music they rendered to the audience inspired a relaxed countenance enabling many to reflect upon the promises of the season both climatically and musically. You can learn more about Nancy and Spencer Reed by exploring their Website at www.reedjazz.com.

According to their website, The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain is “… a community of disciples illuminated by God’s love who care for others spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially as we explore new avenues of grace and grow in faith through worship and service.” In an endeavor to manifest the goals of this statement, they hold weekly services every Sunday beginning at 10am, provide a hostel for those hikers who travel along the Appalachian Trail as well as holding a Hikers’ Dinner every Thursday evening throughout the Summer Months to replenish their energies. They also support the Kenyan village of Amilo by providing a school feeding program for 15 orphans, a well, housing, and simple medical care and information to the villagers and the church shares a partnership with the Reformed Church located in Cardenaz, Cuba. In addition to all this, they support the local Fire Company and Women’s Resources Center as well as provide community aid funds for residents who are suffering economic burdens. The size of the congregation is approximately 200 people.

The Summer Gazebo Concert Series began in 1990 and is presented every Sunday evening throughout the Summer months until the end of August in order to support the local musicians and provide a venue where all ages could learn to appreciate Jazz and acoustic music. In reflection of Delaware Water Gap, PA being considered a Mecca for Jazz, the concerts has a great number of Jazz performances in their schedule. However, all musical styles are showcased during the summer which includes Blue Grass and Classical Music. The next installment in The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Summer Gazebo Concert Series for 2014 is scheduled for Sunday June 8th and will feature The Lost Ramblers. The concert is free to the public and begins at 6pm. Please Explore The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/Presbyterian-Church-of-the-Mountain/234593743269661 for more information.