Sue has had a rough winter, for sure. Her car was smashed up; she got sick, she’s been shoveling for hours, sliding and driving on ice,  and finally hurt her shoulder. But she never complains or loses her love of teaching and gratitude for our support.  The kids always come first. You’re a saint to me, Sue, and I am so grateful you were willing to write this column here every Sunday. Your work with the art class is remarkable and stirring. No one could have done it without you. Thanks to all the good people who support her work. Sue couldn’t have done it without you, either. Jon Katz.

______

News from the Art Room – Winter break was not kidding!

Last week, I wrote about the coming break. Sometimes you get what you need without knowing what you need. The snow and ice started on the first day and seemed to snow for days. We got tremendous ice here in New York, and then a brief warm-up melted everything into a city-size skating rink. I have nothing but admiration for the folks who have worked day and night to clear the roads. We all worked to shovel before it froze hard on the walks and driveway. It was shoveling slush then, and I admit I hurt my shoulder. The wonderful things? It came on a vacation when I did not have to drive.

 I had time to rest, heal, and do many things I always said I would do when I had time. I have nothing to complain about. Tomorrow begins the warmup, and it will feel like heaven. The days are longer, the sun is brighter, and it is fast approaching the clean start of the world that Spring offers. There is a lot of anxiety in the country. I worry for my refugee families and families who need a hand from programs that provide help in times of need. I still believe that the power of goodness will win. I love Mitch Albom, my favorite author (next to that Jon Katz guy). I often read his book with Morrie and students on Tuesdays when I taught Social Justice.

Morrie, a beloved professor, is dying from ALS, and Mitch, a former student and journalist, travels the path with Morrie. It is an excellent read if you have not had the chance. I try to live by Morrie’s advice. His mantra, “Love always wins,” keeps me going when things get overwhelming or frightening.

I included a couple more photos from the piece-of-paper assignment. Molly and Jayden are the photographers this time, but all the kids did a fabulous job. I am looking forward to getting them outside in the coming months.

Sometimes, art should just be fun. Anthony created a collection of found objects that he has turned into his favorite game character, Kirby. Anthony is a great student who enjoys making people smile. He is a senior and also plays the piano. He plans to study finance in college.

Emma was channeling her inner Jackson Pollack and working on a painting for her father’s office. She plans to add inspirational words to the painting.

I received an email from Karen and Ken. They are from Rochester and have incredibly supported the NDBG students. They said they had been to a local store that would soon be closing and shopped for art supplies. Ken, an artist himself, included a unique set of drawing templates! I cannot thank them enough. Love always wins!

Cyndi from CT is sending a unique jewelry box from a thrift shop where she volunteers. Love always wins.

Thank you for the genuinely kind notes and emails. They mean so much!

I am excited to get back on Monday and have some awesome things planned. If you have small, colorful bottles, I found a project the kids will love. Seashells and beach glass, too!

The address is:

NDBG

2600 Albany Street

Schenectady, New York 12304

For anyone I miss, please know that we could not do this without you!

I would appreciate it if anyone could send basic cake and frosting mixes for decorating.

We are still looking for baking supplies if you have anything you no longer use. We always seek donations for anything you feel could be made into something new! Rolled gauze, wire, glassware, canvas, art supplies, heavy foil, pinecones, glue sticks, glue guns, baking tools, seashells, sea glass, bottle corks, sandpaper, and wood. I love hearing from you. My email is [email protected]. 

Have a blessed day! Happy New Year!

Sue