"Into the Room" author event with Steven Rogers
2021-06-05 14:30 - 16:00 UTC | Booklovers’ Gourmet, 72 East Main St, Webster, MA, 01570, United States
Meet and greet with Steven Rogers, author of Into the Room, A Contemporary Christian Novel & Book One in The Accidental Pilgrim Trilogy.
Signed copies will be available for purchase that day.
About the book:
Can a journey across the Holy Land redeem a reluctant pilgrim?
Ben Cahill’s life is an alcohol-saturated mess. After an insincere effort in a rehab facility, he is alienated from his family, out of work, and determined to continue his habit. To make matters worse, thanks to his brother, he reluctantly finds himself on a twelve-day tour of Israel, along with, as he calls them, a bunch of Holy Rollers.
As the trip progresses, Ben experiences the Holy Land’s major historical sites and is exposed to God’s word. He interacts with his fellow travelers, gradually learning about their faith and their lives. Along the way, Ben becomes embroiled in a spiritual war, reinforcing his guilt and, in turn, forcing him to recall his past actions and behaviors. He also begins a different journey, one that leads him to redemption and a place in God’s family.

Steve Rogers is an award-winning author and novelist. After attending The College of the Holy Cross, he became a Certified Public Accountant and went on to fill various roles in public accounting and private industry. When asked to describe his professional career, he uses the phrase, “fortunate beyond all reason.” It enabled him to travel extensively around the United States, visit Amsterdam, England and South America, meet famous people like Alan Alda, Howie Long, and Earl Hamner, ride in a private jet, tour a nuclear power plant, interact with members of Congress, and, incredibly, stand next to Bill Clinton as the former President shaved in a public restroom. More importantly, his corporate career created profound and enduring friendships. In addition, Steve fondly remembers his time as a fifth-grade teacher, a role he filled for three years between financially oriented gigs.
In his free time, Steve loves to fish, hike, and travel. His favorite destinations are Israel, Jordan, Costa Rica, and Italy. Having grown up in Massachusetts, he is a die-hard Boston sports fan and enjoys visiting Maine every summer to fish. Steve, a proud father of three adult children and one incredibly lucky son-in-law, is happily married to his wife of thirty-four years, Kathy. They live in Richmond, Virginia.

In the Heights virtual book launch
2021-06-15 20:00 - 21:00
Your ticket includes admission to this exclusive online event plus a hardcover copy of In the Heights: Finding Home ($40 retail price).

Get your ticket HERE!

About this event

Before Hamilton became a global phenomenon, before Lin-Manuel Miranda became a household name, a little show called In the Heights shook up Broadway with its hip-hop and salsa soundtrack and big, bilingual heart. In the new book In the Heights: Finding Home, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Quiara Alegría Hudes, and Jeremy McCarter tell the story of the show’s humble beginnings, from rehearsals in a bookstore basement to the Broadway smash (and soon-to-be feature film!) that created an unbreakable community and a new kind of family for everyone involved.
Join Miranda, Hudes, and McCarter for a very special In the Heights Virtual Book Launch on Tuesday, June 15 from 8:00 to 9:00pm ET on Zoom. Sure to be an unforgettable conversation on creativity, community, and finding home, this is your chance to hear directly from the creative team behind the timeless story of how one neighborhood—Washington Heights—can speak to the world.
Please contact Booklovers’ Gourmet with any questions. We can’t wait to see you there!

"Wedding Interrupted" author event with Debi Graham-Leard
2021-06-26 14:00 - 15:30
Click on image to purchase online.
Come meet Debi Graham-Leard who will be discussing her latest novel, Wedding Interrupted.
Signed copies will be available for purchase.
Free, RSVP requested. Call 508-949-6232 or email deb@bookloversgourmet.com
‘Wedding Interrupted’ — the 4th story in the Gwen Andrews mystery series — takes Gwen and her cousin Sally from Harbor Falls to Cape Cod in search of proof that her niece is innocent of any wrong-doing. Her latest takes the reader on a suspenseful journey toward a most satisfying ending.

Author bio:
New England author Debi Graham-Leard retired from her marketing position in the business word before writing her first Gwen Andrews mystery titled ‘The Uninvited Guest’. Three more mysteries have been published in the series including The Uninvited Guest and Bed, Breakfast & Blackmail. Born in Delaware, she now resides with her husband in southeastern Massachusetts. For more information, visit debigrahamleard.com

July Art Exhibit - At Peace in Nature
2021-07-01 - 2021-07-31
Fox Totem by Lisa Kretchman
Mixed-media artwork by Lisa Kretchman, will be on display and for sale July 1st-31st during regular business hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10-5.
A meet and greet with the artist will take place on Saturday, July 17th from 2-4 p.m. Please RSVP to deb@bookloversgourmet.com or 508-949-6232.
For a video interview with the artist, go HERE.

Artist Bio
Lisa Kretchman is a local mixed-media artist living in Dudley, MA.
She studied painting, illustration, and digital media at Massachusetts College of Art and Design. Her artwork has been shown in local galleries, museums, and events, including the Warwick Museum of Art, The Attleboro Arts Museum, the RI Convention Center (as part of the Flower Show), and the Quinebaug Valley Council for the Arts & Humanities. She also participates in several public art projects, including Putnam’s Fire & Ice Festival, and is a regular artist at the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, RI, an event that draws tens of thousands of viewers each year.
Much of her work is inspired by nature, often with added story or symbolism. In her process, she blends media including watercolor, pastel, and acrylic, and found objects. By exploring themes of positive intention, compassion, and peace, she hopes to share that energy through her work with others.
More examples of the artist’s work, including her Art Hearts charity project can be seen at: lisakretchman.wordpress.com/fine-art/

Artist Reception for "At Peace in Nature"
2021-07-17 14:00 - 16:00
Ever curious to ask the artist what inspires them or how they approach their materials or technique? Now is your chance! Come meet the artist of the month, Lisa Kretchman. Her mixed media work includes watercolor, pastel, ink, wax and more.

Soul Vibrations, a mixed media art exhibit by Dawn Wilson
2021-08-03 - 2021-08-31
“Chakras”, by Dawn Wilson
Come on in to view the August Art Exhibit!
“Soul Vibrations”, a mixed media exhibit by Dawn Wilson will be on display and for sale August 3-31, 2021 during regular business hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10-5.
A meet the artist reception will take place on Saturday, August 14th from 2-4 p.m. For more information, call 508-949-6232.
Artist Statement
The mystery of life is all around us.
Soul Vibrations is an exploration of life through energy.
These interpretations are rooted in energy medicine (Reiki, Chakras, and meditation), wavelengths of color, frequency of sound, and quantum physics. Experimenting with different mediums the artist digs into the meaning of life using art as the vehicle through which the divine can be reached.

Artist Biography
Dawn Wilson is a Central Massachusetts artist, teacher, and soon to be author.
Dawn has a BA in Fine Arts from Framingham State College and a Masters in Occupational Education from Fitchburg State University. Her artwork has been shown in local galleries and museums throughout the United States. She has also been published in Somerset, Art Doll Quarterly, and Cloth Paper Scissors Magazines, as well as, the following book “Altered Art: Techniques for Creating Altered Books, Boxes, Cards & More”.
Dawn’s inspiration is drawn by her daily life, life observations and the relationship to human energy and healing. The work is created from recycled and repurposed materials from her many collections. Using what she has is an important part of the making process. Exploring themes of healing, the human connection, and relationships to color, she hopes to empower others in their own healing journeys.

"Strange New England" author signing & talk
2021-08-07 14:00 - 15:30
Join us as we welcome back a visit with paranormal investigators Thomas D’Agostino and Arlene Nicholson who will be signing and talking about their newest book, “Strange New England”. Please RSVP to deb@bookloversgourmet.com or 508-949-6232.
New England boasts some of the strangest characters and stories that ever graced a region. From ghosts blessing a marriage to a clairvoyant who raised the dead, mysterious happenings abound. There is the simple grave of the mysterious and anonymous “XYZ” and the extravagant monument built for a pauper. One man may have actually found the elixir of immortality, while another woman left her whole fortune to a spirit she met via a Ouija board. Stories of the Melon Heads, the Leather Man and the Old Coot of Mount Greylock have fascinated New Englanders for years. Join Tom D’Agostino and Arlene Nicholson as they unveil the mysteries and oddities of this unique region.

About the authors: Thomas D’Agostino and his wife, Arlene Nicholson, have been extensively studying and investigating paranormal accounts for more than thirty-eight years, with more than 1,400 investigations to their credit. Tom and Arlene are ardent researchers of New England history, haunts, legends and folklore. Creators of fourteen books, together they have penned and captured on film the best haunts and history New England has to offer. Tom and Arlene’s interviews and paranormal experiences have appeared in numerous newspapers, magazines and other periodicals throughout New England and beyond in regard to their books and comprehensive work in the paranormal field. Tom has contributed to various other books and publications and has appeared on many television and radio shows, as well as documentaries on the subject of the paranormal. Arlene is a professional photographer with a degree in photography. Tom is a graduate of Rhode Island College with a degree in political science. He is a professional teacher and musician. Tom builds his own musical instruments, many from the Medieval and Renaissance periods, that are used in his profession.

Bookstore Romance Day!
2021-08-21 10:00 - 17:00
Join us in celebrating Bookstore Romance Day 2021, because who couldn’t use a little more romance in their life? Stop in the store anytime during the day on August 21st and get 20% off any new or used romance title on our shelves! Plus, pick up a special candle by Hardin Soy Candles at a 20% discount as well. Choose from scents like Steamy Romance Novel, Book Boyfriend, A Midsummer Night’s Dream & more!!
You can also join in the fun online all weekend long. For a full schedule of events, go HERE. Tickets are free, but you must pre-register.

Granite: The Bullmastiff Story, children's author event
2021-08-21 11:00 - 12:30
Join us for a barking good time with local author Louise Chadborne as she reads her new book “Granite: The Bullmastiff Story”! There will be time for coloring too and you can take home your very own book signed by the author to read again and again.
Space is limited so please reserve your spot by email at deb@bookloversgourmet.com or call 508-949-6232.
Please note: children must be accompanied by an adult. Appropriate for ages 4+

Granite: The Bull Mastiff Story is about a family pet that was adopted
when he was a puppy into a family that loves dogs. When Granite gets to his new
home, he is given some amazing presents including toys, a bed, treats, and a huge
condo to sleep in. As he grew from 8 lbs to 165lbs, he became a great helper to the
family. For instance, standing guard and helping to do chores around the house
and yard. The book also, includes pet tips to teach your children how to take care of their pet.

About the Author: Louise Chadborne is born and based in Webster, Massachusetts. She has worked in the Department of Mental Health for more than 32 years and co-own Frosty’s Tree Stand Farm. When not writing, she can be found volunteering at the zoo because animals bring her joy and a feeling of companionship.

Closing at 3 pm
2021-08-28
We are closing at 3 pm today in order to attend the wedding of some good friends.

The Curious Life of Pollinators photo exhibit
2021-09-01 - 2021-09-30
September Photo Exhibit – The Curious Life of Pollinators
By Nature’s Perspective Photography
Stop in to check out this month’s featured local artist 0n view September 1st-30th in our cafe gallery during regular business hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10-5.
Please note, the store will be closed September 14-16 for a brief vacation.
A meet and greet with the artist will take place on Friday, September 10th from 3:30-5 pm.
For more information email deb@bookloversgourmet.com or call 508-949-6232.
Nature’s Perspective Photography started when photographer Nicole Giles began raising Monarch Butterfly Caterpillars in 2017. The hobby grew and in 2018, Nicole released 271 tagged butterflies, with almost 200 more in 2019. She is now working on a Master’s Degree in Entomology where her interest continues to expand to include improving insect habitat and pollinator health. Along the way, Nicole discovered a talent and passion for photography, and has now amassed a collection of nature-themed pictures ranging from beautifully colored butterflies to macro photography of native bees and caterpillars.
The goal of Nature’s Perspective Photography is to increase nature appreciation through educational and artful photographs. Through craft fairs, library displays, and social media posts, Nicole is opening eyes to the curious life of pollinators and the need for conservation. Follow Nicole on Instagram at @naturesperspectivephotos to join her on an endless search for the perfect photos of new and different pollinator species.

CLOSED FOR VACATION
2021-09-14 - 2021-09-16
We will be closed for a brief vacation September 14th-16th, reopening on Friday, September 17th our usual hours 10-5.

Four States of Abuse book signing & talk
2021-09-25 11:00 - 12:30
Join us for a book signing and talk with Dorothy Cooper-Browne, author of “Four States of Abuse”
RSVP to deb@bookloversgourmet.com or 508-949-6232. Masks are required for anyone not vaccinated.
About the Book
“Four States of Abuse” is my personal journey of experiencing abuse from my childhood to adulthood. I did not know that I was being abused at times, but it was abuse, mental and physical. I was born in the south. Sheltered from society. Taught to not question adults.
At a young age, I found out that my mother did not want me and sent me to live with my Aunt and Uncle, who did not have kids. It was here that I was closed off from the world, sheltered from society. I was made to follow commands without question or hesitation.
Being an only child, my sense of innocence was not exposed to life and I took everything at face value. There was no one really there to educate me about the way life should be.
Through my story, I hope to inspire people to get out of their situations and seek help.
Bio
Dorothy Cooper-Browne wants to help other people by sharing her harrowing story of abuse. While she did not know at the time that she was being abused, she survived mental and physical mistreatment. Growing up, Dorothy thought she would be a nun, so she never smoked, never drank, and never did any drugs. To this day, she is still living a clean lifestyle. Though she never had any idea what the future would hold for her, she has always been on a journey to love herself unconditionally. With her sons’ encouragement, she finally decided to pen her story.
In her downtime, Dorothy loves to read, spends quiet moments working on puzzles—everything from crosswords to Jigsaws—and enjoys dancing and singing. With an impressive forty-two years in the banking industry, she is proud of her achievements. She hopes to inspire others who are caught in abusive situations to escape and seek help. There is no shame in starting over and she believes everyone has the right to be happy, safe, and loved for their true selves… even if they can’t see that.

October Art Show- #stillhereb!tch*s
2021-10-01 - 2021-10-30
Wear a Mask, painting by Annie Spear
Paintings of Fur Friends by Annie Spear will be on display and for sale October 1-30, 2021 during regular business hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10-5.
A meet the artist reception will take place on Saturday, October 30th from 2-4 p.m.
About the artist: Annie had fourth stage heart failure and was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus at 32yrs. Every year for the past 15 years she has had a different major organ failure, coma, 2 strokes. She has been criticality ill 70% of her life but still manages to keep a positive attitude, smile and cheer us up with her crazy, funny, healing art.

The Last Green Valley poetry reading
2021-10-02 14:30 - 16:00
We are pleased to present a reading with Barbara Thomas from her newest poetry collection, The Last Green Valley. Barbara will be joined by fellow poet Joan Bernard, who will also read a selection of her work. Please RSVP your attendance to deb@bookloversgourmet.com or 508-949-6232. Masks are required for anyone not fully vaccinated. Signed copies will be available for purchase.
Bios:
Barbara Thomas grew up in the Last Green Valley. She earned a Masters Degree from Boston University in Education and was an English and Reading teacher for 35 years. She is an active member of the New England Poetry Club, the Greek Institute, Glenbrook, a nature writing group in New Hampshire. She was a Joiner/Umass participant for ten years and received the Jeff Mayle Award for her recent book, The Last Green Valley, Cherry Grove Press, 2019. Other publications are a chapbook, Seduced by Sighs of Trees, Cloudkeeper Press, 2007 and poems published in The Paterson Literary Review, 2015, Fiele-Festa, an online publication, Lalitamaba, 2005, and in several Bagel Bard Anthologies. Barbara’s poem, Hickory Nuts will be published in Treelines, An anthology of 21st century American Poems, by Grayson Books in 2022.

A native of Thompson, CT, Joan Bernard divides her life between Thompson and Boston, MA. Always a poet, her work morphed into a level of earnestness in the 1980s when she mentored with the late Ottone Riccio, teacher of creative writing and author of books, notably The Intimate Art of Writing Poetry,” both privately and in the classroom. Since that time, she received tutorship from Fran Quinn, former Poet-in-Residence at Butler University and founding member of The Worcester County Poetry Association. Joan has studied at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education and at the William Joiner Institute/UMass Boston. Her poetry has been published in The Main Street Rag, the Aurorean, Connecticut River Review, The North American Review, The Bellowing Ark and in two anthologies. She is in the process of culling her poems for a chapbook submission to a literary press.

Mystery Book Group-October
2021-10-20 11:00 - 12:00
This month’s pick is Murder at the Vicarage by Agatha Christie.
Please RSVP your attendance to deb@bookloversgourmet.com or 508-949-6232.

Fantasy Author event Xionqnu
2021-10-23 14:00 - 16:00
Queen Astrid & Sorcerer Gaul

Fantasy Author event Xionqnu, Book 3 in the Saga of Kee series signing event with Robert Conard and Cathrene Youngquist. Signed books will be available for purchase. The first two books in the series, Book I Nogard and Book II Nubia, will also be available. Call 508-949-6232 or email deb@bookloversgourmet.com to reserve a space.
Xiongnu, a fast paced, YA/Adult fantasy-adventure novel, is a great read for all who love the power of dragons. This unique action-packed fantasy features strong female protagonists, historical facts woven into the rich tapestry of the tale, and dragon-napped hatchlings. Set in the time of the Vikings, the novel follows a diverse band of characters working together through many amazing adventures that span the globe.
Bio: Robert Conard
Robert Conard was born in Columbus, Ohio in November 1939. He is a Navy veteran who served on a destroyer as a gunner’s mate during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Bob is an avid fisherman, and has written several periodicals for the New England Fisherman. In addition to the Saga of Kee series, he has also written several short stories. Sharks’ Soup, taken from a personal experience in the drink; Jake’s Springs; and The Flower of the Mashantucket are the best known. He currently lives in Guilford, Connecticut.
Bio: Cathrene Youngquist
Cathrene Valente Youngquist is a retired educator and author of The Three Billygoats Gruff and Mean Calypso Joe, published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers. Her two YA/Adult poetry books: Island, Vignettes from Paradise and Caribbean Smiles invite all readers to experience Caribbean life on the island of Anguilla, where her family had a second home for over twenty-five years. She is an active member of SCBWI and the Connecticut Poetry Society. You will always find her with pen at the ready. Xiongnu is her first novel with Robert Conard.

Artist Reception with Annie Spear
2021-10-30 14:00 - 16:00
Come meet artist Annie Spear, whose animal paintings #stillhereb!tch*s are on display through October.

"It's a Colorful Life", Paintings by Jen Niles
2021-11-02 - 2021-11-30
Seaside Scituate Scene, painting by Jen Niles
Drop by to see this month’s featured artist, Jen Niles, in our cafe gallery during regular business hours:
Tuesday-Saturday 10-5, open Wednesdays until 6.
For more information call 508-949-6232 or email deb@bookloversgourmet.com
Artist’s Statement: I am a self-taught artist living and working in Paxton, Mass. I’ve been drawing all my life, and for many years concentrated on pen & ink illustrations including commissioned house portraits. In 2001 I began experimenting with acrylics, inspired by the comical antics and effortless elegance of my two cats, PK and Nellie. From there, I developed a recognizable, whimsical style usually featuring bold color and cheerful subjects from everyday life. In recent years, I’ve started teaching both adults and children, including my popular “Paint Your Pet” classes. Whether it is animals, my surroundings here at home in New England, or scenes from daily life, I never fail to find inspiration.

Children's Author Extravaganza!
2021-11-06 11:00 - 12:30
Meet three local children’s book authors in one day! Pick up some signed copies to keep or give as gifts this holiday season. Read on for details!
Please register to attend by calling 508-949-6232 or emailing deb@bookloversgourmet.com.

Julia Kneeland is a Connecticut author of Jig Gets Lost, an adventure story about a dog named Jig. He lives in a big city and decides he wants to go exploring. One day he leaves his home and discovers the wonderful smells from the street vendors selling all different kinds of foods. He meets a young vendor who gives him a treat! But when he looks around to get back home, he cannot find his way.
Julia Kneeland is a retired public school teacher. She taught in Eastford and Tolland Connecticut for twenty-six years. She especially enjoyed teaching writing classes to her fifth grade students. She would share with them her own writings. Also, she participates in the Teacher as Writer classes at University of Connecticut.

Pedro Samuel Saquic and Ana Echevarria DeSaquic are a mother/son duo authors of the bilingual book Pedro Penguin: Let’s Go to the Beach/Vamos a la Playa. Pedro Penguin a great story that teaches children to be kind and share.
Ana and Pedro live in Rhode Island. Ana enjoys writing and crafts while Pedro loves watching gaming videos and playing his Nintendo Switch games. They’re tight-knit and enjoy spending family time at the beach. Pedro is an energetic young one who enjoys nature and playing in the great outdoors. The pair hopes to inspire other families to try new activities and stay positive no matter what obstacles arise in life.

Shawn Boyle of Massachusetts, is the author of several children’s books in The Chief & Lefty series, which take place in Paperville City, a place where almost everyone and everything is made of paper. The top cops in charge of keeping everyone safe are The Chief, a paper action figure and Lefty, a paper hand turkey. They deal with great adversity when they encounter an epic losing streak trying to catch bad guys.
Shawn currently lives in Massachusetts with his wife, two daughters and son. Shawn has spent the last several years as a stay at home dad. In a different lifetime, Shawn had a job in finance just outside of Boston. He has also tried his hand at stand-up comedy and improv.

"Always Play the Dark Horse" mystery author event
2021-11-13 13:00 - 15:00
Join us in welcoming back Sharon Healy-Yang, author of a new film noir mystery Always Play the Dark Horse, the third installment of her Jessica Minton Mystery series. Once again diving into the perspective of Jessica Minton, Always Play the Dark Horse shows a gradual but significant transformation in this main character; Healy-Yang describes the newly engaged Jessica Minton as someone who has transformed from the strong woman who felt she had to prove herself to the strong woman who is confident in having proved herself.
Healy-Yang finds mystery narratives as the best format to imagine contemporarily written film noir worlds, as the genre regularly proves itself particularly adept at moving readers into dreamy and shadowy new worlds with sharp twists and turns. Always Play the Dark Horse returns to these aesthetics as Healy-Yang once again brings the magic of film to the page for all mystery-book lovers.

About the author: Sharon Healy-Yang is an aficionado of 1940s cinematic and written mysteries. A professor emerita at Worcester State University in Massachusetts, where she was known for her 1940s hats, she had the great fortune to share her love of literature and film with her students in her courses. Now retired, she’s excited to recapture for readers the smart-talking heroines, suspense, adventure, and sharp wit of 1940s films in her Jessica Minton Mystery series: Bait and Switch, Letter from a Dead Man, and Always Play the Dark Horse.

Open Mic Poetry
2021-11-20 14:00 - 16:00
This will be our last open mic poetry event of the year. We will resume them again in January on the 3rd Saturday of the month. Masks are required for anyone not vaccinated. Bring original or favorite poetry to share in a round robin style.
Space is limited to 12, so please reserve your space ahead of time in order to participate by emailing deb@bookloversgourmet.com or calling 508-949-6232.

Small Biz Saturday!!
2021-11-27
Join us to “Shop Small” this season with a BIG impact on your community and reward yourself too. You will find special deals, raffles, giveaways & more all day long! From loads of books for everyone’s taste, to cute cards, awesome jigsaw puzzles, handmade journals & jewelry, lanterns and light-up ornaments, cardinal wall art, snowmen and gnome shelf-sitters & so much more!
Plus, enjoy cider and cookies while you browse.
We look forward to seeing you!!

Paintings by Anne M. Tisdell
2021-12-01 - 2021-12-31
Chickadee, watercolor by Anne Tisdell
Paintings by Anne M. Tisdell will be on display and for sale December 1st-31st.
A meet the artist reception will take place on Saturday, December 11th from 1-3 pm. For more information email deb@bookloversgourmet.com or call 508-949-6232.
Hours for viewing the show are Tuesday-Saturday 10-5, Wednesdays 10-6, Sundays, December 5th, 12th and 19th 12-4, Mondays December 13th & 20th 10-5.
Artist bio:
I have dabbled in art all my life with sketching and drawing. I grew up in Swampscott, MA., an oceanside community north of Boston. Professionally, I have worked as an RN and a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner for 45 years. I had a few courses in art as a teen and took 2 courses at Montserrat School of Art in Beverly, MA in pastels and watercolors with artist/teacher, Mimi Johnson. Retiring in 2016, I have had the time to pursue my interests in art, music, dance and photography.
Many of the paintings that I create are based on my photographs or the photographs by friends with their permission. Artist, Elaine Griffith taught classes at Holden Senior Center in acrylic painting which I started in October 2017. Since then, I have exhibited in various places in Central MA. I started Art Classes with Bill Griffiths at the Worcester Art Museum in 2018, which brought me to a new level as an artist. He has taught in all mediums and students work in the medium of their choosing. I have exhibited at the Museum’s Adult Student Art Exhibit and at Arts Worcester. In 2018, I started watercolor classes with Charlie Grey in Rutland, MA., a local well-known artist who has been instrumental in improving my watercolor technique. In July 2021. I participated in an intense workshop under the direction of Artists Mimi Johnson and Mark Hayden in multiple art forms. I am also a musician and singer and have sung in choruses and churches in Greater Boston. I studied voice with the late Pauline Maher of Lynn, MA.
The Pandemic in 2020 cut into my exhibition time. Booklovers’ Gourmet in Webster, MA was my first exhibit of 2020. I am happy to return in December of 2021 with a mix of Landscapes, Birds, Animals and Flowers for all to enjoy!

"Pondering the Pandemic during The Rust Years"-poetry reading
2021-12-04 13:00 - 14:00
Joe Fusco Jr. is a well-seasoned poet/humorist from Worcester, Massachusetts.
He is the author of three books of semi-amusing poems and essays: “Hmm…That’s Different” (2020); “Three Score” (2014); and “The Lost and Found Essays” (2012).
In his new book “Pondering the Pandemic during The Rust Years,” Joe muses about growing old uncomfortably during the pandemic.
Joe’s musings have appeared in Damfino Press, Ballard Street Poetry, Worcester Review, Asinine Poetry, and the naughty ezine Clean Sheets. He was a co-winner of the Jacob Knight Poetry Award in 2002 and was named Best Poet by Worcester Magazine readers in 1999 and 2002.
Joe is still a frequent contributor to Worcester Magazine and the last Worcester Mega-Slam winner in 2017.
Joe has lived in lovely Worcester with his better-half Cyndi and their large family for thirty-five years. He is a registered Independent and sleeps with one eye always open.

OPEN 12-4
2021-12-05, 2021-12-12

December Artist Reception
2021-12-11 13:00 - 15:00
Come meet the featured artist of the month, Anne Tisdell of Webster, MA, whose paintings will be on display and for sale in our cafe gallery.
Her work includes wildlife, nature and landscapes.

Ralph Masiello's The Unicorn Drawing Book
2021-12-12 13:00 - 15:00
Join us for some unicorn & drawing fun at this book signing event with illustrator Ralph Masiello and his latest, The Unicorn Drawing Book. Ralph will teach you how to draw along with him. Please RSVP to deb@bookloversgourmet.com or 508-949-6232. The event is free but registration is highly recommended. Other books in the series will also be available for purchase. Appropriate for ages 6+. Children must be attended by an adult.
Ralph Masiello—affectionately known as ‘The Icky Bug Man’—has illustrated several children’s books including The Icky Bug Alphabet Book, The Yucky Reptile Alphabet Book, and The Flag We Love. His oil paintings are remarkably rich and realistic and bring to life the subjects of his books—be they bugs, flags, dinosaurs, or well-hidden messages and secret drawings.
A graduate of Rhode Island School of Design, Ralph has produced numerous works of fine art for galleries in addition to picture book illustrations and magazine covers for Omni and Tennis. He is twice the recipient of the Society of Illustrators Certificate of Merit. But it is his visits with school children that give him the most satisfaction. “Adults are very subdued. They say, ‘Isn’t that lovely?’ But children will go, ‘That’s so cool, dude!’ That’s better than any award.” Along with discussing the technical aspects of book making, Ralph tells his audience about his own education, stressing reading and library skills as they relate to the research and development of an accurately illustrated book. Audience participation and spontaneity is highly emphasized and always leads to boisterous, but stimulating and educational, fun for kids. For years, children have benefited from visits from ‘The Icky Bug Man.’

OPEN 10-5
2021-12-13
