February 16, 2013: The Belfast Organization for Artists held a free “Open Mic Nite” at 3 Bums Pizza, Main Street, Belfast, NY, from 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM. The 3rd annual early spring event features local artists and is always popular. This event was no exception—there was an enthusiastic standing room only crowd and excellent performances by 8 artists or groups. Student performers included Mia Enders (euphonium, vocals), Zach Enders (vocals), Kayla Ross (vocals, keyboards), and Kyle McCumiskey and Owen Hall (rapping to videos). Adult performers included “Reeni and Amy” (Reeni McCumiskey and Amy Preston), Derek Briggs and Mark Hunter, “Grane” (Reeni & Amy, Derek & Mark), and balladeer Jim Schwartz. Mia and Zach were accompanied by their parents (Aubri and Jeff Enders) while Kayla was self-accompanied. BOFA members Kathy Garrison (Events Coordinator, emcee), Marie Nix, and Derek Briggs (sound system, guitar, vocals) were also present for the event. It’s great to know there is so much local musical talent willing to come out and entertain!! Many thanks to 3 Bums Pizza for hosting our event!!!!!! -k.g.
January 31, 2013: The Belfast Organization for Artists sponsored a UFO Day at the Belfast Town Hall from 1:00 PM to 4:00PM. For this event, local artists and artisans are asked to bring their unfinished objects or projects with the intent of working on them in the congenial company of other artists. Some choose to bring completed or nearly completed projects; some are seeking various solutions to problems or sticking points; and some are looking for ideas for/critiques of new projects. Some people just wander in to see what others are doing and to socialize. This time we had 8 local artists working on various fiber projects, including BOFA members Kathy, Marie, and Janine. It was nice to see some of the “works in progress” for the upcoming August 2013 Art Show at the Belfast Library. -k.g.
