Seeing the Big Picture of a Mighty River

The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery in Delaware Water Gap, PA held an Artists’ Reception on Friday June 12^th for “The Riv12 - 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.

The mighty properties of the Delaware River were beautifully reflected through the scope and sheer magnitude of a number of large pieces which filled not only the walls of the gallery but the imagination of all who would endeavor to explore their landscapes. Yet, there were smaller images that captured the attention of those who peered into their depths as one would hold their fascinated gaze upon the ripples of a stream. Together, these depictions of The Delaware River flowed into one reflection as the waterway's myriad of wonders were revealed to the overwhelming number of art lovers who attended the reception by the outstanding quality of the artists who participated in the exhibit. You'll find more photographs taken during the Artists' Reception in The Seeing the Big Picture of a Mighty River Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153940238453761.1073741859.91146283760&type=3.

The Riv12 - 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.

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. The Riv12 - The Delaware River - A Big Picture exhibition continued to be on display until June 28^th. The Dutot's next exhibition will be a solo show featuring the work Jill Sandt Swersie www.jillswersie.com. An Artists’ Reception is scheduled to be held on Friday July 10^th beginning at 7pm and the exhibit will continue to be displayed until July 19^th. Please Explore The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/DutotMuseumAndGallery?fref=ts or their Website at www.dutotmuseum.com for more information.

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.

Small Works Make Big Impression

A comfortably sized gathering of artists and art lovers filled The PoconoArts Cultural Center in Stroudsburg, PA who held an Artists' Reception for their Small Works Exhibition in their ARTSPACE Gallery on Friday June 12^th. The exhibit was a juried one which featured over 40 pieces created by local artists employing techniques that manifested smaller images and objects than many were accustomed to producing. This allowed those familiar with the work of a particular artist to become aware of his/her prolific ability to modify their endeavors toward an even more creative outcome. Although not all the work was what could be considered by many to be small, each piece had its own beauty and profound presence that brought a thoughtful smile to the viewer.

Deborah Hamburger served as the exhibition's Judge and was charged with the daunting task of selecting pieces that would be especially honored with awards. The recipients were Melissa Benzinger who received a Honorable Mentioning for her piece titled, “Midnight Chorus,” Karen Duncan who received the Third Place Award for her piece titled, “Eric and Marshall,” Will Rothfuss who received the Second Place Award for his piece titled, “Grindstone Island,” and Doug Gilbert who received the First Place Award for his piece titled, “Elevation.” All these pieces were exceptionally well done and blended well with the work of other Artists in the exhibit whose marvelously crafted endeavors were made even more prestigious through their award winning presence.

In addition to the Small Works exhibit presented in The PoconoArts Community Cultural Center’s Artspace Gallery, their Studio Gallery offered a collection of Assemblages created by the late Morris Berman which were donated to PoconoArts by his daughter, Ilona Marmer. The work incorporates found objects arranged to divulge the contradictions of modern life which depicts both the whimsical and poignancy of it. The display also included several previously unseen two dimensional work created by Mr. Berman that further captivated those who viewed it. The display of Mr. Berman’s work is an ongoing one and can be explored during the center’s business hours. You'll find more Photographs taken during the reception in the Small Works Make Big Impression at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153940220158761.1073741858.91146283760&type=3.

The PoconoArts Community Cultural Center is part of The PoconoArts Council which is an organization designed to build the communities in which it serves artistically and culturally by providing leadership, service, and education. It does so by offering avenues for artists to display their work through the center and other galleries, educational opportunities for those who would like to explore and/or enhance their creative natures, and encouragement to those who seek to express and/or support the arts. The Small Works Exhibition continued to be on display until June 27^th. Their next exhibition will be their Landscape Exhibition to be held in their ARTSPACE Gallery along with the work of Joni Oye Benintende. The Artists' Reception is scheduled for Friday July 10^th beginning at 5pm with the work continuing to be on display until July 31^st. You’ll be able to learn more about The PoconoArts Community Cultural Center and all it has to offer the creative community by exploring The PoconoArts Council Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/poconoartscouncil or their Website at www.poconoarts.org.

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.

Fame Touches the Walls of Hotel Fauchere

On a beautiful afternoon that brought out the charm of the town of Milford, PA, the Hotel Fauchère held a special celebratory reception on Sunday June 7^th to honor those who have been recently chosen to be inducted onto their Wall of Fame. This prestigious honor is primarily bestowed upon the hotel’s former guests along with some noteworthy individuals who have either visited or have taken up residence in the area. Theses individuals have included Silent Film Star Mary Pickford and former President William “Bill” Clinton.

The considerable accomplishments of the current inductees have not only received local, national, and international accolades for their creative achievements, but their endeavors have touched the lives of those who have experienced them. Their names and their contributions to better the world through their art were announced by The Hotel Fauchère co-owner Sean O'Brien Strub upon which the veil concealing their photograph was lifted and each recipient who were present came forward to share their words of appreciation. They were:

Jimmy Sheehan who is an artist whose work combines elements of gestural abstraction, drawing, and iconography which are considered simultaneously epic and intimate. He currently lives in Godeffroy, NY, where he is an art director and designer. He also has participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions in New York City and elsewhere. Mr. Sheehan has recently been the subject of a documentary film titled, “Trusting the Struggle” which was produced and directed by Libba Marrian. You can learn more about Jimmy Sheehan and his work by exploring his Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/jimmysheehanart or his Website at www.jimmysheehan.com.

Barbara De Vries who is a designer of clothing, jewelry, and other accessories that enhance the human form through their adornments. She began her advocation by making clothes for herself, along with creating designs in jewelry for her friends, while living in her native city of Amsterdam which is the capital the Kingdom of the Netherlands. She later became a model and did shows for Yves Saint Laurent while living in Paris, France and appeared on the cover of Cosmopolitan (aka Cosmo) Magazine. After Ms. De Vries served as Sr. design director for Calvin Klein, she found plastic on the beach on an island in the Bahamas called, “Eleuthera” from which she made jewelry and founded Plastic is Forever. Ms. De Vries currently lives in Miami, FL where she spends her time designing, working as anti beach plastic pollution activist, and teaching beach plastic workshops locally and in the Bahamas. You can learn more about Barbara De Vries and her work by exploring her Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/Plastic-is-Forever-by-Barbara-de-Vries/117262538299908 or her Website at www.plasticisforever.net.

Ronny Whyte who is an accomplished Jazz singer and pianist has been featured on Marian McPartland’s Piano Jazz on National Public Radio and received the ASCAP Award for his lyrics to the song, “Forget the Woman” which was recorded by Tony Bennett and his music for “The Party Upstairs” which won the MAC Award for Best Song of 2006. Mr. Whyte has performed at The Weill Hall at Carnegie Hall, New York’s Town Hall, Washington’s Corcoran Gallery, and the Mellon Jazz Festival in Philadelphia, PA. Mr. Whyte currently produces and hosts a weekly jazz concert series titled, “Midtown Jazz at Midday” at St. Peter’s in Manhattan, NY. Mr. Whyte divides his time journeying between the New York area and his house in Milford, PA where he enjoys being an avid tennis player, skier, gardener, and gourmet cook. You can learn more about Ronny Whyte and his work by exploring his Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/Ronny-Whyte/222077051190627 or his Website at www.ronnywhyte.com.

David Lender who is an author of thrillers draws upon his experience as a former investment banker who worked in mergers and acquisitions for Merrill Lynch, Rothschild, and Bank of America to create six novels, six short stories, and novellas. He is also well known for his Sasha Del Mira Thrillers and White Collar Crime Thrillers Series. Mr. Lender lives in northern New Jersey with his family and a pit-bull named “Styles.” You can learn more about David Lender and his work by exploring his Website at www.davidlender.net.

Martha Lorin who is a Jazz singer whose debut LP titled, “The Best is Yet to Come” featured jazz icons Pee Wee Ellis, Larry Klein, Mark Isham, and others led her to tour throughout the US, Asia, and Europe. She later began a collaboration as lyricist with pianist/composer Frank Collette that resulted in several Billboard Award winning songs. Ms. Lorin has performed at The Weill Hall at Carnegie Hall, The Iridium Jazz Club, South Bend Jazz Festival, Trio's Jazz Club, Pearl's, Feinstein's at the Regency, Judy's, 88's, Metropolitan Room, Green Mill, Catch 35, Bailiwick Theater, The Milford Theater, The Gardenia, and others as well as recording large number of CDs. Ms. Lorin lives in Milford, PA and more information about her and her music can be found by exploring her website at www.marthalorin.com.

Robert La Fosse is a dancer who joined The American Ballet Theatre in 1977 and was invited by Jerome Robbins to join The New York City Ballet as a Principal Dancer in 1986. In addition to his work in classical ballet, Mr. La Fosse has also starred in Broadway productions such as Bob Fosse’s “Dancin'” and Jerome Robbins’ “Broadway” for which he received a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor. In addition to performing, Mr. La Fosse is also a choreographer whose works include “Rappacini's Daughter” which was created for Mikhail Baryshnikov. Mr. La Fosse has written an autobiography titled, “Nothing to Hide.” You can learn more about Robert La Fosse by exploring the website at www.dance.barnard.edu/profiles/robert-lafosse.

Those inductees who were not present for the adfternoon were Christopher Makos www.makostudio.com and Paul Solberg www.paulsolberg.com who are photographers along with Ron Kuby www.kubylaw.com who is a civil rights attorney and radio host as well as Bob Guccione, Jr. who is the eldest son of Penthouse founder Bob Guccione and is best known for founding music magazine titled, “Spin.” Their absence didn't diminish the contributions they made to the arts and the community as those who knew them shared stories filled with a plentiful amount of accolades through. These conversations allowed these inductees to be truly present in spirit. The images of those inducted onto The Hotel Fauchère Wall of Game will be on display in the stairwell between the first floor and the Bar Louis level of the establishment. You’ll be able to see more photographs taken during the ceremony and reception in The Fame Touches the Walls of Hotel Fauchere Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153927779913761.1073741857.91146283760&type=1.

The Hotel Fauchère in Milford, PA was build by Louis Fauchère who was born in 1823 in Vevey, Switzerland. He immigrated to the U. S, in 1851 where he found employment as a Master Chef at New York’s famous Delmonico’s Restaurant. He moved permanently to Milford, PA in 1867 and purchased a small saloon known as the “Van Gorden and La Bar” (which had previously been known as “The French Hotel”). Louis Fauchère became known as “the crazy Frenchman” by his neighbors and began expanding the Van Gorden and La Bar in the late 1870’s until it became The Hotel Fauchère that is known today. Louis Fauchère died on September 11, 1893 and the hotel remained in the family until it was sold in 1976.

The Hotel Fauchère in Milford, PA is currently owned by Sean O'Brien Strub and Richard L. Snyder. In addition to owning The Hotel Fauchère, Sean O'Brien Strub serves as the director of The Sero Project www.facebook.com/TheSeroProject which is a national network of people with HIV and is known for seeking a seat in the U. S. House of Representatives as the first openly HIV+ candidate. Besides owning The Hotel Fauchère, Richard L. Snyder is also owner of Snyder Quality Llamas www.snyderqualityllamas.com and has served on the Board of Pinchot Institute for Conservation and as vice-president of the Historic Preservation Trust of Pike County.

The Hotel Fauchère offers its overnight guests rooms whose amenities include flat-screen TV with cable, iPod docking stations, Frette linens, Kiehl's bath amenities, radiant heated bathroom floors, and warming towel racks along with complimentary wireless and hard-wired internet access. The Hotel Fauchère also offers fine dining facilities in its Delmonico Room and Bar Louis. You can learn more about The Hotel Fauchère and all it has to offer by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/hotel.fauchere.milfordpa.

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.

A June Day with The Arts

On a beautiful pre Summer day, the town of Stroudsburg, PA offered an opportunity for art lovers to spend the afternoon and evening pursuing the galleries that line its Main Street area during an Art Walk held on Saturday June 6^th. These galleries included DR's Custom Framing and Art Gallery, The SOHO in the Burg Gallery, The Origins Gallery, and The Sherman Theater's Living Room Gallery. Each establishment had its own flavor extending a variety of welcoming images to those who ventured into town that day.

The first gallery I visited in my travels was DR's Custom Framing and Art Gallery who featured the work of Jim Hannan. A collection of Charcoals depicting a variety of images filled the wall capturing the essence of the subject through the contrasts and shadings the artists deftly employed. A large number of people attended the Artist's Reception and many became spellbound by the shadows found in each piece. The exhibition continues until June 30^th and I recommend stopping in to view the work of Jim Hannan along with numerous pieces created by other highly skilled artists that are on display throughout the shop.

DR's Custom Framing and Art Gallery is located at 730 Main Street in Stroudsburg, PA. In addition to presenting art upon their walls, the shop offers a variety of framing options for artists who seek to present their visual work in an enhancing manner. They also offer  a number of gift items including artist note cards, greeting cards, jewelry, baskets,  posters, and prints. Their next featured exhibition will take place in July with an artist yet to be announced. You can learn more about DR's Custom Framing and Art Gallery by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/D-Rs-Custom-FramingArt-Gallery/115617568553944?fref=ts or their Website at www.drsgallery.com.

The next gallery I traveled to was The SOHO in the Burg Gallery who held an Artists' Reception for their exhibition titled, “Eye Candy.” I was greeted by the gallery's owner, Andrea Robbins-Rimberg, who stood beside a beautiful array of flowers which were arranged outside at the venue's entrance way. Both were pleasant spectacles to behold and served quite well as a preparation to the sights I would see within the gallery.

Intriguing images enticed the eye filled the enormous gallery space as a sizable gathering took in the magical elements embodied in each piece. A number of artists shared their works for the exhibit and their varied approach to the show's theme added to its colorful properties. This inspired a great deal of thoughtfully enjoyable conversation while the delicious victuals prepared and served by Chef G (aka Guarino Cortese) chefIIgo@yahoo.com added their own flavor to every word that was uttered.

The SOHO in the BURG Gallery is located on the corner of 6^th and Main Street in Stroudsburg, PA which was the location of the J. J. Newberry’s store. The Eye Candy exhibition will on display until July 30^th. The next exhibit will take begin in August and details regarding it will be announced in the future. In addition to the art exhibitions, the gallery holds a number of workshops and special art related events. You can learn more about The SOHO in the BURG Gallery and all it has to offer the creative community by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/sohointheburg or from their Website at www.sohointheburg.com.

The next gallery I visited was The Origins Gallery who held an artists' Reception for their exhibition titled, “Napkin Shmapkin - Whatever Happened to Saturday Morning Cartoons?” The work created by local artists consisted of drawings on napkins which were framed and hung throughout the gallery. The napkins displayed depicted a variety of images ranging from simple etchings to complex compositions. Both approaches revealed the talent and imagination of the artists which the large number of attendees to the reception found pleasing and intriguing. The exhibit also featured cells from cartoons that were on loan to the gallery for that evening. These images of Bugs Bunny, Tom and Jerry, Felix the Cat, and other characters brought a wonder to the smiles of many whose memories of their enchantments filled the soul of everlasting childhoods. In addition to the work being displayed, Artist Ted Michelowski shared his talents throughout the evening by drawing caricatures of those who attended the event.

The music for the evening was performed by Adam Bailey www.facebook.com/baileyadam92 which proved to be hypnotic as the musician played upon his guitar accompanied by an array of electronic musical voices who lent their chorus to each excellent piece he skillfully played. A number of announcements were made reflecting the scope of not only the gallery's endeavors but those of the local creative community as well. The evening ended at the venue with their well loved art raffle that inspired a great deal of excitement as prizes were given to those holding the fortunate numbers that were called.

The Origins Gallery is located at 580 Main Street in Stroudsburg, PA. The Napkin Shmapkin - Whatever Happened to Saturday Morning Cartoons? Exhibition ran until June 21^st. Their next exhibition is titled, “Papers, Prints and Frames” and will feature selected printed artworks from decades ago along with a selection of interesting frames and documents of interest. The Artists Reception is scheduled for Saturday June 27^th beginning at 6pm and the exhibit will be on display until July 12^th. In addition to the art exhibitions, the gallery holds a number of workshops and special art related events. You can learn more about The Origins Gallery and how it serves the community by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/OriginsGalleryStroudsburg or their Website at www.originsgallery.org.

The final gallery I visited was The Sherman Theater's Living Room Gallery who held an Artists' Reception for their group exhibition titled, “Music: My Universal Language” which featured the work of Steve Truglio. I arrived rather late to the event but the images which were on display had no less impact on me as their depth and insightful compositions moved the imagination of those who peered into their wonderments. A variety of delicious cupcakes provided by Kitchen Chemistry www.facebook.com/pages/kitchen-chemistry/245276232196?fref=ts sweetened the conversation the artwork inspired.

Unfortunately, my late arrival didn't afford me the opportunity to partake of the musical performance of EvaMarie Swartout www.facebook.com/evamarie.swartout?fref=ts. However, I did experience a mind blowing performance by a band known as Cascavel www.facebook.com/cascaveltheband?fref=ts who consists of Elizabeth on vocals, Kevin on guitar, Rich on guitar, Richard on bass, and Steve on drums. Their psychedelic sounds pierced the the reality of dreams with music that flowed that flowed from one subconscious plateau to another while the solid, kick ass voice of Ms. Elizabeth casted its subliminal spell leading all who were touched by it to the darkest domain within until they rediscovered their bliss. In other words, it was wow.

The Sherman Theater's Living Room is located 522 Main Street in Stroudsburg, PA. The Music: My Universal Language Exhibition continues to be on display until June 28^th. Their next exhibition is yet to be announced. In addition to the art exhibitions, the gallery holds a number of concerts and a weekly Open Mic Series www.facebook.com/OpenMicAtTheLivingRoom?fref=ts that occurs every Sunday evening beginning at 6pm. You can learn more about The Sherman's Theater Living Room and how it serves the community by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/shermanlivingroom?fref=ts.

My day walking with the arts proved to be an enjoyable one filled with wonderful images, music, and conversations that served to enhance my appreciation for the talent I experienced. This was shared by all who came out to partake of the day. Yet, there was tint of sadness among a number of us who remembered the grandeur of Art Walks in the past when the whole community cooperated with one another and it attracted a great number of people who were eager to come to town in order to experience something truly remarkable. The June 6^th 2015 Art Walk was a great one to be a part of, but remembering the past makes one realize it could be so much more.

Luckily, there are members of the creative community who are endeavoring to enhance the events to regain their former glory. This group is known at The Pocono Art District and you can learn more about them and how to become involved by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/ThePoconoArtsDistrict?fref=ts or by contacting them at jackswer@ptd.net. The next Art Walk will take place Saturday July 11^th. I hope to see you there. In the meantime, you'll find more Photographs taken during A June Day with The Arts at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153925098273761.1073741856.91146283760&type=1.

 

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.

A Willow Inn the Irish

The Willow Tree Inn in Stroudsburg, PA presented an evening of Traditional Irish music on Friday June 5^th. With a mosaic backdrop that captured the elements of the Inn, the musicians filled the air with the gaiety of their instruments inspiring reels and jigs to take place in the minds of those who listened. The musicians who performed in excellent form were Joan Sweeny on Bodhian, Molly Malone on Whistle, Barbara McMahon on Flute and Whistle, and J. Jeffery Gibbons on Guitar. The group was later joined by John Updike who enhanced the mood of the performance by adding the strings of his Banjo to its tempos.

A comfortably sized gathering filled the back porch area as the view of The McMichael's Creek and a huge willow tree added a delightful tone to the concert. It was a gentle evening filled with toe tapping smiles accompanied by the good food and wine the establishment offers its customers. You'll find more photographs taken during the show at The Willow Tree Inn Presents Irish Music Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153922524723761.1073741855.91146283760&type=1.

The Willow Tree Inn is located at 601 Ann St. in Stroudsburg, PA. In addition to the musical entertainment they provide regularly, a fine variety of food can be had in their extensive dining area providing their guest with various menus to peruse. However, The Willow Tree Inn is also open to producing a meal from a recipe or description a customer shares with their chef. You can learn more about The Willow Tree Inn and all it has to offer by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/willow.inn/timeline or their Website at www.thewillowtreeinn.net.

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.

Celebrating a Life with Rickfest

“I'll be loving you always,

With a love that's true always.” Irving Berlin

On Friday May 29^th, a tremendous outpouring of love filled Delaware Water Gap, PA as hundreds (if not thousands) of Rick Chamberlain's friends and colleagues joined with his family to honor his passing by celebrating his life throughout the Dining Hall of the town's Historic Castle Inn. Memories filled the halls as well as the hearts of those who shared them. These memories were given a musical voice as the upper level of the Hall offered the talents of numerous musicians whose tributes communicated their love in a language no words could ever convey.

These tributes began with those paid by Rick's students which included those who have attended The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) CampJazz which he and Phil Woods established in 2007 to provide young musicians who have a love for jazz an opportunity to explore their talents alongside musicians who have gained a well deserved reputation in the jazz world. They were followed by a number of musicians of whom many guided the CampJazzers through their musically expansive experiences. These musicians included “Sweet” Sue Terry, Evan Gregor, Spencer Reed, Paul Hubbell, Sherrie Maricle, Matt Vashlishan, Jay Rattman, and Bobby Avery who lovingly jammed together as the spirit of Rick Chamberlain guided each note.

The company was followed by the duo know as SheliaMark who consists of Mark Hamza and Sheila Stratton. They were joined by Spencer Reed, Bill Goodwin, Phil Woods, and others. The blues the duo is known for were belted out through music and a voice that slapped the audience with its power and left the gathering desiring more of the same. SheliaMark were followed by a number of musicians from the New York City Ballet Orchestra of whom Rick Chamberlain was their Principal Trombonist. The selections they performed were as majestic as they were reflective of their combined love they had for their friend and comrade. This was followed by a ceremony to honor Rick Chamberlain that was led by Lois Heckman.

The hearts of those who populated the Hall beat as one as stories about the antics and kind love Rick engaged in throughout his life filled the air. These remembrances inspired a great deal of thoughtful laughter that were tempered by tears. The speakers included Rick's sister, a life long friend, Phil Woods who co-founded (or co – Floundered) The Celebration of the Arts Arts and Jazz Festival which has been presented in Delaware Water Gap, PA annually since 1977, members of Rick's first band known as “Good Friends Coyote,” members of the New York City Ballet Orchestra, a friend who was referred to as Rick's “fishing buddy” who performed a song which inspired members of Rick's family to dance around the room. He was followed by Carol Dorshimer who spoke of the contributions Rick has made to the educational community of the area and by his neighbor who shared his memories of living next to the Chamberlains.

After a brief pause, Rick's wife, Darcy, and the adult children who shared a life with the couple stood to share their memories and love with the gathering. Their words touched the heart and soul of every individual who heard them as they added a dimension of love for the man and his family. They were followed by Nancy and Spencer Reed who sang their rendition of the composition titled, “Always” which was Rick's and Darcy's song written by Irving Berlin in 1925 as a wedding gift for his wife Ellin McKay whom he married in 1926. The song touched the gathering in an even more profound way as it's lyric and melody became intertwined with their being.

The reflections the performance inspired was followed by a New Orleans salute to Rick as presented by the Dixieland Gents whom Rick would play with at The Celebration of the Arts Festival as they roamed around the festival site and entertain the audience while the main stage was being set for the performers who were preparing to play. The liveliness of their music filled the room with joy as it served to remind many that death is a doorway to another adventure filled with music and love. They were followed by The COTA Festival Orchestra led by Phil Woods and offered the combined talents of the numerous esteemed musicians who have graced the festival's main stage over the years. They were joined by Bob Dorough who lent his well loved voice and style to enhance a number of compositions. It was after the Orchestra performed did the musical tribute to Rick Cahmberlain (which has been affectionately referred to as “Rickfest”) officially come to an end.

However, there was one gentleman who wanted to share a song he had written for Rick that was not on the schedule. He and his guitar was given the opportunity to do so and it was fortunate for all who heard the song that he was. The lyrics touched upon many aspects of his life which enhanced our love and memory of the man. The conclusion of his performance led to many conversations which furthered the memory of Rick Chamberlain and their words became part of his meaningful legacy. You'll find more photographs taken during the Celebration of the life of Rick Chamberlain at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153883974668761.1073741854.91146283760&type=1.

Rick Chamberlain passed away on Friday March 27^th due to pancreatic cancer. He studied music at New England Conservatory and was the Director of The Lafayette College Jazz Ensemble, Principal Trombonist at New York City Ballet Orchestra. Rick is best known to the area for joining with Phil Woods and the late Ed Joubert (who were known as “The Unholy Three”) to begin The Celebration of the Arts Arts and Jazz Festival (COTA) in 1977 which gave birth to COTA CampJazz whom Rick co founded with Phil Woods in 2007. Both the festival and camp are held Annually in Delaware Water Gap, PA and made the town a mecca for jazz enthusiast around the world. COTA's mission 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. You can learn more about Rick Chamberlain and as well as partaking of an opportunity to share your memories at The Celebration of the Arts Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/COTA-Celebration-Of-The-Arts/234094683405815 or their Website at www.cotajazz.org.

Although I've seen and admired Rick Chamberlain's mastery of the Jazz Trombone for many years, it wasn't until 2003 when I got to know him as a person. That was the year I began volunteering for The Celebration of the Arts Festival as a member of its security staff. We chatted a number of times after the general meetings held to plan the event and shared our thoughts on music, art, and many other things. Once he saw my photographic endeavors on line and noted how much I grew as a photographer. His word inspired me to learn more about the art so I would continue to grow in it. When I began writing articles about my experiences during the festival, he requested the first article I wrote be posted on the COTA Website. Rick, you were a great musician but you were an even greater man. I remain humbled by your love for art, music, and life in general. Thank you for being a friend and inspiration. I love you.

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.