Giving Back

The Frewsburg Legion is a place where I have formed many lasting friendships and have experienced first hand the generosity of its members. Many years ago, as a graduate of Frewsburg Central School, I was the recipient of the Samuel Derby Post #556 Scholarship, which helped me to pursue an education in the visual arts.

Now, as a creative professional, it is my mission to provide opportunities within the community for aspiring young artists to showcase their craft outside of the classroom.

From concept to completion, the Post was open to the idea and worked with the high school art teacher, Ms. Lindsey Vitello to secure supplies and prepare the surface for the mural. 

Together, Ms. Vitello and I met with the Art Club to discuss the parameters of the project, provided real-life visual samples and outlined a variety of concepts with appropriate subject matter.

It was Ms. Vitello who then brought this vision to reality. First, by creating a to-scale mockup for approval; then by guiding the students through the process of creating a full size grid in order to transfer the image onto the building. As painting began, each of the art club members were assigned to a section. 

This larger-than-life project took nearly 4 years to complete … and I must say, it was worth the wait!! The outpouring of positive feedback and praise these hard-working students have received is undeniable. My hope, moving forward, is that they will carry this experience with them and continue to harness their creative talents as a means for community vitality.

And … as time goes on, I will continue to smile every time I see a group photo in front of that beautiful American Flag.