UNIQUE 2009 - Arise

FRONT COVERBlue MoonAlice OlcottAlice Olcott grew up in Michigan, and lived in Englandand Southern California before moving to CentralNew York in 2004. A life-long lover of the arts, shedid not consider art a career until after her first brainaneurism in 1993. Alice’s inspirations come frominternal emotions. “I find many people are touchedby the emotion that they feel from what is mainlyabstract, conceptual art.” She describes “Blue Moon”as serene and mysterious, and says, “I find her a goodmeditation piece.”Honorable Mention: “Rage”

The Art & Literary Magazine 2009Published byARISE Child and Family Service, Inc. [ARISE]Supported byUNIQUE is made possible with funds from DeFrancisco Arts, Culture and Heritage Grants, NewYork State Council on the Arts Decentralization Grant Program, a State Agency, and the CulturalResources Council, a Regional Arts Council.How You Can Support UNIQUEYour contribution to UNIQUE helps increase awareness of the capabilities and talents of peoplewith disabilities. As a non-profit agency, ARISE depends on the generosity of our supporters tocontinue publishing UNIQUE.To make a contribution, please mail your check, made payable to ARISE, to the address below oruse our secure online form at www.ariseinc.org.Thank you for your generosity!635 James Street, Syracuse, NY 13203www.ariseinc.org© Copyright 2009 ARISE Child and Family Service, Inc.

The Art & Literary Magazine 2009Editorial BoardJoan ConleyDenise MakoTeresa MelnickJenny TerreroManaging EditorElizabeth L. DunnDesign byHeather Braathen, Cazenovia, NY (315) 655-4227Artwork Photographs byBenjamin Cooper, Syracuse, NY (315) 478-2577Printing byThe Scotsman Press, Syracuse, NY (315) 472-7825Submission ProcessUNIQUE is published annually to display the creative work of artists with disabilities living inCentral New York. We welcome submissions of written and visual works. Guidelines and deadlinesfor UNIQUE 2010 will be announced by April 2010 and will be published on the ARISE website.Alternative FormatsPortions of UNIQUE are available in alternative formats upon request.Please contact ARISE’s Information and Referral Specialist at (315) 472-3171.

Table of ContentsRebecca Stam, Journey from the Forest ...... 1Jenny E. Dunlop, Hope .......................................... 1Michele Gaframcesco, Grape Country ........... 2Amy Van Riper, Reflections of the Willows ... 2Erika Vitthuhn, Spring Scene ............................. 3Christine Moyer, Trinity ....................................... 3Barb Higgens, Falling Man .................................. 4Ricky Ryder, Acceptance ..................................... 4Elissa Hyre, Grieving .............................................. 5Jeffrey D. Harrington, Dancing Lovers .......... 6Carol Broome, Easter Egg Tree ........................ 6Amanda Townsend, Diana’s WonderfulWorld .......................................................................... 7Justin Teeter, Godzilla .......................................... 7Maria Heinlein, My Loss, Lights Out ................ 8Elizabeth Watson, Exhaust ................................. 8Christine L. Eldred, Mirror Like ......................... 9Melly Putman, Picture Frame& Hand Drawn Bird ................................................ 9Renee Thornton, The Outhouse ..................... 10Luann Knight, Resting ....................................... 10Jessica Bero, My Cat Buddy ............................ 11Brian Rahl, Dragon Wars ................................. 11Joseph H. Cooter, Jr., Masks ......................... 12Richard Rowley, Seascape ............................... 13Dennis Pullen, Jr., An Unborn Child .............. 13Josh Webster, Typhon (The Mighty PirateShip) .......................................................................... 14Laura Masuicca, “Love”ing Hand ................... 14Members of Upstate Cerebral PalsyClassroom #7, Fall Watercolor ...................... 15Melissa Lesley-Fox, Feelings ........................... 15Jennifer A. Fulco, Symphonic Gestures ....... 16Ted Nicholson, Wooden Walking Stick ........ 16Kevin Mitchell, Clutch ........................................ 17Eyal Sherman, The Big Apple .......................... 18Members of the Cortland CommunityReentry Program Art Group, State Fair .... 18David Bottego, Buddy Walk ............................. 19Roger Henley, Hand Crafted Celtic Plate .... 19Jim Ervin, Time to Rest ..................................... 20Donna August, Calm Before the Storm ...... 20Derek Grindle, Hall of Fame ............................. 21Nasia Henderson, Untitled ............................... 21James Tarbell, Get Out of My Head .............. 22Rhonda Peterson, Mocking My-Ra ................ 22Robert Szpak, Harlequin ................................... 23Gary Manning, In Memory of FallenHeroes ..................................................................... 23Steve Ingerson, Der Längste Tag/TheLongest Day ........................................................... 24Shonda Bleichert, Christmas .......................... 25Richard McCarthy, Poppies Made From CatFood Cans ............................................................... 25Vivian A. Golding, Oswego Winter Scene ... 26Annalise Erlanson, Snow Trees inLevitown ................................................................... 26Jeremy Kelley, Block Lines ............................... 27Frederick G. Kretzmer, The WarmPlanet ....................................................................... 27Honorable Mention ............................................ 28FRONT COVER: Alice Olcott, Blue MoonBACK COVER: Chris Sheridan, NightWatercolor

Journey from the ForestRebecca StamRebecca Stam, 17, lives in Fayettevillewith her father, brother and grandmother.Her motivation for art began in art classat school where she learned to draw,paint, and take pictures. “Journey from theForest” was inspired by a picture in photoclass and created with both watercolorand prismacolor.Honorable Mention: “Ms. Cally Oliver”HopeI remember that long and rocky road,So hopeless I lost track of time.About to give up until I found out quitters never win,So slowly I began to climb.Finally I got to my senses,And to reality, I knew.I can’t just rely on everyone else,There are things I have to do too.Take responsibilityDo what I know is rightDon’t do what I know is wrongStand up for myself with confidenceTake courage and be strongI’ve had my ups and downs,My moments and hard times too.But there wasn’t anything that I couldn’t get through.I look back now, smile and say,All of this just prepared me for today.New skills, a new life, an open doorBecause I was willing to learn, love,and have hope in what I live for.HopeJenny E. DunlopJenny Dunlop, 15, lives in Tully anddreams of becoming a professionalwriter. She began writing poemsat the age of eight. Diagnosed withschizo-affective disorder and anon-verbal learning disability, sheoften uses writing as a means ofprocessing her feelings and toencourage others. “Hope” reflectssome of Jenny's struggles, lessonslearned, and the reward for notgiving up.Honorable Mention: “O the Beauty ofHis Creation”1

Grape CountryMichele GaframcescoMichele Gaframcesco, 87,created “Grape Country” as atribute to a Finger Lake vineyardthat reminded him of vineyardsin Sicily. He began art as a hobbyafter retirement by taking acourse through BOCES. Michelelives with Multiple Sclerosis anduses a wheelchair, but says,“My art gives me joy to do and asense of fulfillment.”Honorable Mention: “USSHutchins “Home Again””Reflections of theWillowsAmy Van RiperAmy Van Riper, 28, was sitting ona bench as the sun rose when shetook “Reflections of the Willows.” Shebelieves the photograph expressescalmness and serenity. Amy lives inHannibal with her husband and threechildren. Amy embraces her disabilityand says that “it opens up my mindand eyes to see things as a form ofart.”Honorable Mention: “Dunkin Ducks”2

Spring SceneErika VitthuhnThe Asian-inspired “Spring Scene” makes ErikaVitthuhn feel and think of the bright colors ofsummer. She enjoys creating art because it givesher a new look at things, and the opportunity to gether hands dirty. Erika lives in her own apartmentwith her husband and her small dog. She is amember of the David Clark Learning Center, aprogram of Transitional Living Services.TrinityChristine MoyerChristine Moyer lives inSyracuse, and became active asan artist when she was 45. Sheuses art as a form of meditationto help with bipolar and anxiety.“Trinity” expresses a spiritualconnection with a higher power.To Christine, the sun, moon, andstars represent Father, Son, andHoly Spirit.Honorable Mention: “DearWorld, I am Your Future”3

Falling ManBarb Higgens“Falling Man” started with a giftof paints to Barb Higgens thathad once belonged to someonediagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Shepainted what she felt: a man witha golden glowing head falling. Barblives in Fayetteville and has alwaysbeen creative. Five years ago, shestarted painting on a regular basis.“Art is healing for me,” Barb says.“It has changed my life, lifting meout of depression.”Honorable Mention: “Hole in theHead”AcceptanceLaughing at my every moveTalking behind my backThen asking if I want their helpMy silence would force them back.Things that I see as achievementsAre failures to the restThey just see that I can’t do itBut, I know I did my best.Things that mean a lot to meMay mean nothing to someone elseHappiness to me, is doing somethingWithout having to ask for help.I can give all I’ve gotAnd never finish a taskJust leave me alone, if I need helpI’ll ask.AcceptanceRicky RyderRicky Ryder, 50, is a NetworkAdministrator at Mackenzie-Hughes Law Firm in Syracuse. Hebegan writing poetry in college atBinghamton University. He wroteabout having Cerebral Palsy, whichhelped him accept himself, andbecome the positive, outgoingperson he is today. “Acceptance” isabout growing up with a disabilityin the 60’s and 70’s, a time whenmost people thought people withdisabilities should be kept at homeor institutionalized.4

GrievingElissa HyreElissa Hyre, now 25, lives inSyracuse with her parents andyounger brother. Writing is herpassion, and her inspirationscome from people she has known.Elissa has lived with epilepsy sinceshe was nine years old. “Grieving”was written about a death of afriend, and reveals Elissa’s feelingssurrounding the death.Honorable Mention: “Our InternalBattles”GrievingI remember that chilly Tuesday afternoon.It felt so good to get in Aunt Alma’s house. Wewere in the middle of a card game when sheasked me if I had read that day’s paper.“Nineteen years old,” she said as though shehad seen too many casualties in her life already,and lifted her frail body out of her chair. Shegot his first name wrong, so all I could do washope that she got his last name wrong, too, andwipe the sweat from my palms. She came backwith the newspaper, pointing to a little blurb onthe side as she handed it to me. I glanced athis name and the word ‘died;’ a wave of anger,confusion, and disbelief came over me as I thenread the article thoroughly. I felt my heart raceand my throat close up. I wanted to cry, butinstead I picked up my cards and thoughtlesslydrew another one. I continued doing so while mymind was elsewhere. The walk home seemed alot longer than usual. The road seemed so muchmore dangerous, too.As I was walking, I thought of Aunt Alma,living to be so old, and one of the sweetest guysI graduated with died at nineteen. Today I turnednineteen. Today I also gained a new perspectiveon life. Whether I live to be an old, frail womanlike Aunt Alma, or if I don’t even live to see mytwentieth birthday, in the game of life I can onlyhope I was given a full deck of cards. From nowon though, I will not draw them thoughtlessly.5

Dancing LoversJeffrey D. HarringtonJeffrey Harrington, 19, lives in Fayetteville withhis parents and sister. He studies art throughthe East Area YMCA and with Jackie Adamo, ateacher at the Edward Smith School in Syracuse.Jeffrey has autism, but doesn’t let it get in theway of his goals. “Dancing Lovers” captures theemotion of the moment the couple shares bydancing to their special song.Honorable Mention: “Bohemian Lovers”Easter Egg TreeCarol BroomeCarol Broome, 61, lives in Syracuse and hopes shemakes her parents and two sons proud of her. She hada stroke, and is currently a member of the David ClarkLearn Center, a program of Transitional Living Services.“Easter Egg Tree” is the end result of creating a 3-Dshadow box, taking a digital photograph, and furtherapplying text to finish the piece.6

Diana’s Wonderful WorldAmanda TownsendAmanda Townsend, 18, lives in Manlius and isinterested in working with children. She has DownSyndrome, which can affect her coloring and painting.Shapes and sizes of objects are different becauseof her perception. “Diana’s Wonderful World” is adrawing of a Teaching Assistant. Amanda enjoyedbeing able to add a lot of detail to the picture.Honorable Mention: “Amanda Bookworm”GodzillaJustin TeeterJustin Teeter, 14, lives in Chittenango and enjoys swimming,video games, TV, movies, and creating art. He likes claybecause it has more dimensions than paper, and it helps easeaggravation and bad experiences. Justin sculpted “Godzilla” aspart of creating a stop-motion video. The idea was influencedby old Godzilla movies and stop motion videos on the Internet.Honorable Mention: “Film Crew: Dan & Steve”7

My Loss, Lights OutMaria HeinleinMaria Heinlein, 45, wrote “MyLoss, Lights Out” when she was18, having lost her vision twoyears earlier. She has sincegraduated from high school,Onondaga Community Collegeand Empire State College, andattained certificates from theSchool for the Blind in Buffalo.She raised two boys and currentlyworks as a Sprint Relay Operatorin Syracuse.Honorable Mention: “RosieFingers of Dawn”My Loss, Lights OutWhen it first happenedIt was like a bad dream, almost a nightmareSometimes I just sat and staredI hoped and prayed that life would be fairNobody seemed to get itThey just had no clueThat I have a heart that is really black and blueEverybody whispers but I can hearAll the laughs, the jokes, about my fearsThe way they all made fun of my dead brown eyesHidden under my long brown hairIf only my life could be easyI wish that life could be fun and even withBlindness, my personalBattles could be won!ExhaustElizabeth WatsonElizabeth Watson, 16, lives and attends school in Fayetteville. Shewas born with Cerebral Palsy, and has a seizure disorder. Lovefrom her family and friends gives Elizabeth the inspiration to keeptrying and not give up. She painted “Exhaust” as a self portrait.The bright colors expanded her artistic skill set, since much of herother artwork is in black and white.Honorable Mention: “Future White Lighter”8

Mirror LikeChristine L. EldredChristine L. Eldred, 45, wasinspired to write poetry followingher brain injury, and used it to helpreconstruct her life. After manyrehabilitation facilities and grouphomes, Christine now lives in herown apartment in Utica. “MirrorLike” is a reflection of Christine’sfeelings during her rehabilitation.Honorable Mention: “Song of Life”Mirror LikeWho is that I see?Is that a reflection of me?Or just someone I used to be?The whole thing at times seems confusing to me!Who am I... do I really see?Or am I looking at who I am trying to be?I do hope that the person I see in the glass is me,Not the me of yesterday or of tomorrow—What would be the use in reliving so muchof yesterday’s sorrow?It seems that some of us have more thanenough burden to bear.Still, when confusion strikes – don’t let it sting you...Pick up and carry on with your dreams of music,hope and belief!There should be some help and relief forconfusion of mind...I hope someday I can find itNever give up on this dream!Picture Frame & Hand Drawn BirdMelly PutmanMelly Putman lives in Oneida and enjoys drawing,plastic canvas sewing, and being creative witha variety of materials. She does not believe herdisabilities hinder her artistic talents. Melly drew thebird in “Picture Frame & Hand Drawn Bird,” cut itout, and decorated it with various items, then chosethe frame. She says, “When I draw birds, flowers, andother animals, it makes me feel happy.”9

The OuthouseRenee ThorntonRenee Thornton is 23 and lives with hergrandmother in Syracuse. She graduatedfrom Solvay High School, and attendedthe New York State School for the Blind inBatavia, where she took art classes. “TheOuthouse” was created as part of a schoolproject, where each student had to paint anouthouse with an animal.Honorable Mention: “The Waterfalls”RestingLuann KnightLuann Knight, 54, uses her camera as her windowto the world outdoors. She was diagnosed withphotophobia, and needs to protect her eyes fromall bright light. “Resting” is a digitally-manipulatedphotograph of a little bird resting on a large crane.Luann says, “As this little bird evolved, so have I as Ihave found a new platform for my love of art.”Honorable Mention: “Woodsy Walk”10

My Cat BuddyJessica BeroJessica Bero, 23, lives near DeltaLake in Rome. She enjoys movies,shopping, ice cream, playinggames, and swimming. She tookan art class through her DayHabilitation program, and nowbrings her camera with her totake pictures like “My Cat Buddy”wherever she goes.Honorable Mention: “New York City”Dragon WarsBrian RahlBrian Rahl is 17 and would like to be acartoonist. Drawing helps him relax, andboosts his confidence. Brian lives in Camillusand attends school at Onondaga – Cortland– Madison BOCES. “Dragon Wars” wasinspired by a movie and picture on theInternet. Brian notes, “The dragon is takingover and no one can stop him.”Honorable Mention: “Rock & Roll”11

MasksJoseph H. Cooter, Jr.Joseph Cooter, Jr., 38, lives inDewitt and attends LeMoyne College.He has been writing poetry on andoff for twenty years as a way forhim to cope with Attention DeficitHyperactivity Disorder and a learningdisability. “Masks” is a poem aboutpretending to be normal and thedread of being found to be different.Joseph remarks that, “Manydisabilities are hidden. I know what itis like to appear normal and at thesame time feel different.”Honorable Mention: “Mania”MasksI wear a mask,To hide myself from the worldI wear a mask,To cover who I amand not let people know the real me.I wear a mask!I wear a mask because I’m afraid of whatpeople will think of meIf they knew who the real me was.I know I’d be rejectedI know I’d be an outcast.I’m afraid I’d lose everythingIncluding the one that I love.I fear that she will let me go.I fear she will say no,I fear she will say yes.I fear the night.I fear the day.I fear the city,I fear the country.I fear me more than life itself.I fear I won’t beWho I’m supposed to be,If they know my secrets.So I must live in disguise.And pretendTo be somebodyI am not.I must wear this maskAnd let people seeWhat they want to see.12

SeascapeRichard RowleyRichard Rowley, 65, loves the water and fishing, and combined the two in “Seascape.” He was a tool and dye maker for30 years, and now he enjoys spending time with his grandchildren. Richard is a member of the David Clark LearningCenter, a program of Transitional Living Services.An Unborn ChildThe unborn son I’ll never haveOh how it would feel to hold a little handTo be one to see his life expandWhy was the feeling of a father taken from this man?Teach him well to see all the sights and smellsSeeing him ride his bike and see him succeed in lifeThis is one thing in life that was takenfrom some devilish spellJust being a role model in children’s lives gives me lifeAn Unborn ChildDennis Pullen, Jr.Dennis Pullen, Jr. lives inOswego. He was in a caraccident at the age of seven,where he became quadriplegic.To express himself, he drewpictures, and painted, all bymouth. Dennis began to writepoetry when he was 21. Hestarts with an idea and letsthe words flow. “An UnbornChild” was inspired by Dennis’snephew.A son or daughter someone to call me fatherThe simple things in life that you think are a botherA son or daughterI just want to be their fatherSickened and sad by the modern manThe sickened part is how a fatherwouldn’t hold his child’s handThis is another thing that’s hard to understandJust to be a father, this is what it means to be a man13

Typhon (The Mighty Pirate Ship)Josh WebsterJosh Webster, 20, constructed “Typhon (theMighty Pirate Ship)” out of pressure-treatedwood and named it named after the Greek Titan.Josh lives in Mexico and is interested in mythicalcreatures, hot rods, and ships from the 1800’sand earlier. He has been creating art sinceelementary school, and says, “Wherever I go,I see art or I turn the image I see into art.”Honorable Mention: “Morning Glory”“Love”ing HandLaura MasuiccaLaura Masuicca, 44, is attending Onondaga Community College forHuman Services and is concentrating on American Sign Language(ASL). A worsening back injury prompted her to return to school.The inspiration for ““Love”ing Hand” comes directly from Laura’s signlanguage class. The ceramic hand is positioned in the sign meaning “ILove You,” in ASL.14

Fall WatercolorUpstate Cerebral Palsy TradewindsEducation Center Classroom #7Several artists, between the ages of 12and 20, worked together to create “FallWatercolor.” The artists have multipledisabilities and enjoy sensory-based activitiesthat provide the opportunity to be creative.Inspiration for their artwork comes from thesupport of all the staff in the classroom, whoencourage the artists’ creativity.FeelingsMelissa Lesley-FoxMelissa Lesley-Fox, 30, lives inSyracuse, and is studying accounting.After a surgery, and losing a lot of usein her right arm, Melissa learned to useher left. She has since regained someuse of her right hand. The colors in“Feelings” represent Melissa’s moods.Times of anger (red) or depression(blue) happen, but they are limited andinterspersed with being happy andsatisfied (yellow and purple).15

Symphonic GesturesJennifer A. FulcoJennifer A. Fulco usedSyracuse Symphony Orchestraperformances as inspirationfor “Symphonic Gestures.” Shegraduated from the Universityof Hartford with an English andWriting concentration. Diagnosedas Bipolar, Jennifer feels, “Mycreative purpose is to let the publicknow that people with disabilitiescan be intelligent, creative and‘unique.’”Symphonic GesturesWhen the symphony slides into its surge,We see hands, eyes and hear harnessing in unison.The eye knows the handAnd the ear knows the eyeAnd the hands know the touch.Touch the gargantuan triumph of a stage of talents.The conductor carefully masters as “maestro.”The violins are crucialWhether first or second violin—Each player has his or her partTo perform for perfect unison.Each player is like a rain drop in a stormAnd the spotlights are the thunderous lightning.The bass is the biggest wooden one,only lesser than the pianoAnd the violas are the smallest string instrument,But each piece is punctualAnd has its position.Throughout the music, the melody emergesAnd the cacophony continues itscurrent during the concert.The clap, cheer and roar round outThe ending of the Symphonic Gesture.Wooden Walking StickTed NicholsonTed Nicholson, 26, lives in Oneida. He enjoysworking with animals and helping people out. Tedcreated the “Wooden Walking Stick” after findinga piece of a branch. He sanded the piece down,carved the design and stained it. Ted notes, “Thewood is oak, which is a harder wood to work with.”16

ClutchStadium lights beamed down over the baseball diamond. The crowd waspacked in the stands that accommodated thousands; nobody was sitting down.Many had their flash-cameras out, ready to contribute to the already eyesquintingillumination in the famous sports complex. From the blimp over the city,it was like seeing thousands of tiny fireflies, all idle around a giant light bulb.On the field, the air was cool, but not chilly. The grass was cleanly cut, whilethe dirt had become messy after several innings of sprinting players. The noiselevel from the fans was as deafening as ever. While in the dugouts and onthe field, everyone was completely silent. The fielders, bench players, coaches,and umpires had all tuned out the noise from the crowd and the stadiummusic played over the speakers. The only thing on their minds was absoluteconcentration.Players of the visiting team were spread out onto the field to prevent awinning hit. The final inning of the game—unless a tie sent them into extra play—was something nobody was strange to. The home team was down by two runs,with only one out left before the visitors were victorious. With runners on firstand third base, there was still a shred of possibility that the home team couldprevail.A loss would spoil the home crowd, leaving many disappointed as they leftfor the massive parking lot. But hundreds of miles away, people in living rooms,restaurants, bars, and even hospitals, would also feel the crushing weight ofdefeat if their own team lost. Whether the game went into extras or not, therewere only two possibilities at the end of the game: one where the grey uniformswould run to the mound, dog piling each other where the game had just ended.The other would be a group of white uniforms bursting out of their dugout, andwaiting for their teammate at home plate, where the winning run would score.The pitcher on the mound was an ace—a veteran southpaw with a nastyarsenal. His stare left the rookies intimidated with his trademark stare down, andeven the all-stars were nervous when looking into the man’s eyes.The hitter who just stepped to the plate was a lean player in the prime of hiscareer. He carried some power, but mainly hit for average. Most importantly, hewas undeterred by the viper’s look in his opponent’s eyes.It was time to play for the championship. Both players were ready for thenext pitch, right after the catcher gave the signals. The pitcher went into windup,dealed... and with just one pitch, the game ended on a memorable play.ClutchKevin MitchellKevin Mitchell, 21, lives in Clay and follows many college and professional sports teams. He writes because he enjoysusing his imagination and telling stories. He calls his disabilities, “distractions that have only made me want to writemore.” Kevin wrote “Clutch,” because of his love for sports and the thrill of competition.17

The Big AppleEyal ShermanEyal Sherman, 28, graduated fromSyracuse University in 2009 with aFine Arts degree. After undergoingsurgery for a brain tumor as a child,he had a brainstem stroke that lefthim in a coma for three months.Eyal emerged a quadriplegic and allof his artwork is done with a mouthstick.He sees all problems aschallenges and opportunities. Eyalcreated “The Big Apple” becauseof the great time and memorieshe has from visiting New York Cityseveral times.Honorable Mention: “Big Red”State FairCortland Community ReentryProgram Art GroupRichard Carpenter, Kenneth R.Cormack, John A. Kauffman, JosephKreig, Chris Serio, Harry Smith, andSuzanne Warner created “State Fair”for a display booth at the New YorkState Fair. It is now permanentlydisplayed at the Cortland CommunityReentry Program facility. All theartists who worked in creating thiscollaborative piece have sustained abrain injury. They are encouraged tobe creative and work together.Honorable Mention: “Twin Peaks”18

Buddy WalkDavid BottegoDavid Bottego, 20, created “BuddyWalk” because he enjoys BuddyWalk ® events. The events are heldnationwide by the National DownSyndrome Society to celebratethe abilities of people with DownSyndrome. David likes painting withbrushes and using bright colors.He also enjoys movies, musicalsoundtracks, and participatingin the Special Olympics.Honorable Mention: "Mardi Gras"Hand CraftedCeltic PlateRoger HenleyRoger Henley, 60, lives in Syracuse and beganpursuing creative activities after mobilityrestrictions made participating in hunting andfishing difficult. His interests include wood turning,and painting heritage wooden toys and woodendecoys. Roger created both the wooden plate andthe Celtic design that he painted on it.Honorable Mention: “Hand Crafted Wine Stopper”19

Time To RestJim ErvinJim Ervin, 39, lives in Syracusewith his wife and son. Hebegan writing poetry after hegraduated college. Jim feelsthat as he has grown, hisfamily and friends have helpedhim realize that his CerebralPalsy is only a small fractionof the person he is. Jim wrote“Time To Rest,” as a tributeto his father after his father’sdeath.Time To RestMy call carries across the windOver hills and valleys and back again.I’ve walked through miles of woods until the sun has setNow I can rest with no regrets.With rod and reel I cast no doubtsAbout what my life has been about.A grandchild’s laugh, a son’s first stepA family drive, a game of catch.I have the freedom to wander over land and waterWithout barricades, my mind is now free to wonder.Take comfort in family and in friendsAnd know that this is my beginning, not my end.Calm Before the StormDonna AugustDonna August, 45, worked as a 30-ton craneoperator and a work leader at Crucible Steel. Shecurrently lives in Hastings and enjoys working withcolor and paint. Donna created “Calm Before theStorm,” using a wet-into-wet watercolor technique.She is a member of the David Clark LearningCenter, a program of Transitional Living Services.20

Hall of FameDerek GrindleDerek Grindle, 19, lives in Oswego with hisparents. He has autism and started creating artwith the help of his teacher, Harry Rapshaw, asa form of therapy. “Hall of Fame” was createdusing a multi-stage process. Derek drew andphotographed concentric circles, then cut thephotos into different shapes and arranged them.Finally, he took digital photographs. Derek feels“Hall of Fame” expresses that life is an endlesscircle.Honorable Mention: “Expression”UntitledNo one can feel how I feel when I’m down.But they might and can turn my frown upside down.The things we experience are now in the past.But they’ll never fade. They’ll always stay.They will always stay in the head.Although they are being saidUntitledNasia HendersonNasia Henderson, 11, lives inSyracuse and enjoys math andsocial studies. She uses poetry tohelp express herself. This workshows Nasia’s feelings aboutwanting to have fun, but having tobehave likean adult.I’m a kid in school, but it feels like I’m an adult at homeThere’s nothing to do and I feel like I’m all alone.Hopefully this will all fadeAnd I won’t have to worry about so many things.21

Get Out of My HeadJames TarbellJames Tarbell, 53, draws his inspiration from hissecond chance at life, and wants to inspire othersto express themselves through exploration of mind,heart, and soul. “Get Out of My Head” was inspiredby hours of psychological testing and the RollingStones song "Get Off of My Cloud".Honorable Mention: “Your Fish Is Out of Tuna”Mocking My-RaRhonda PetersonRhonda Peterson, 53,lives in Altmar withher boyfriend, dogs,cats, and parrots.She uses art as painmanagement andtherapy. Rhondacreated “MockingMy-Ra” as a ‘journeyquilt’ to counterextreme physical painand emotional turmoil.She says, “I felt somuch better, almostwhole, by the time Iput the last commenton it.”Honorable Mention:“My Colorful Universe”22

HarlequinRobert SzpakRobert Szpak, 60, attended Boston Museum School ofFine Arts and Syracuse University. His favorite worksare Impressionist or Modern works from Picasso andDegas. “Harlequin” represents differing points of viewand perspective. The Harlequin is both observing theworld with his open eye and shutting the world outwith the closed eye.Honorable Mention: “Balance Beam Girl”In Memory of Fallen HeroesGary ManningGary Manning, 58, is a musician who spent years on ‘MusicRow’ in Nashville, TN. He now lives in Syracuse and is amember of the David Clark Learning Center, a program ofTransitional Living Services. “In Memory of Fallen Heroes”combines digital photography, watercolor painting, andphotographs and a prayer book from Gary’s tour in Vietnam ina shadowbox collage.23

Der Längste Tag/The Longest DayDer Längste TagAm längsten Tag waren wir da -wir tapfere Jungen,wir beängstigte Soldaten.Da versuchten wir -schreiend, weinend, betend -uns gleichzeitig umzugebringen.Dieser Tag endet nie;in Albträumen kommenBlicke und Geräusche zurück.Am schlimmsten aber sind die Gerüche:heisses Blut, Kotzen, brennendes Fleisch.Nach diesem Gang durch die Höllefreue ich mich auf den Tagwenn ich zusammen mitmeinen Kamaraden -ob Freund oder Feind -Im ewigem Schlaf Ruhe finde.The Longest DayOn that longest of dayswe were there—we brave boys, we scared soldiers.And there,with screams, tears and prayerswe did our best to kill each other.This day never ends; in nightmaresthe sights and sounds return.Worst are the smells:the hot blood, vomit, andburning flesh.After this sojurn in hell,I look forward to the timeWhen, with my comrades—both friend and foe,I find peacein eternal sleep.Der Längste Tag/The Longest DaySteve Ingerson“Der Längste Tag/The Longest Day” expresses that despite differences, people share common experiences that bindthem together. Steve Ingerson, 58, was inspired by a program on World War II and how the experience and emotionsof both German and American soldiers were similar. He wrote the poem first in German and then in English. Stevegraduated from SUNY at Buffalo with a BA in History, and was a United Methodist Pastor until he went on permanentdisability due to fibromyalgia. He has three children and lives in Oswego with his wife.24

ChristmasShonda BleichertShonda Bleichert, 15, lives in NewHartford and enjoys spending timewith her friends and family. She isinspired by her mother, who tells herthat she can do anything if she putsher mind to it. Shonda enjoys writingpoems and short stories. She wrote“Christmas” as a present for hermother.ChristmasTis almost Christmas,The best time of the year.To show warmth and bliss,When family and friends are near.All singing the songs,To show joy and pride.With happiness sitting,Right by your side.As happiness fills the air,Smile, its only here once a year.When frosty cold snowflakes fall on your hair.Santa will be here with his nine reindeer.I just want to say,Merry Christmas to you,And may all of your dreamsCome true.Poppies Made FromCat Food CansRichard McCarthyRichard McCarthy is 76 and lives inSyracuse. He has been artistic since anearly age, and switched to crafts whenhis tremor worsened. As a former floraldesigner, Richard is always looking forobjects to turn into flowers, which he didin “Poppies Made From Cat Food Cans.”He hammered flat the cans and sprayedthem with a plastic coat paint to takeaway the metallic look and cover lines.Honorable Mention: “Medusa on aHubcap”25

Oswego Winter SceneVivian A. GoldingVivian Golding is 66 and lives in Oswego.She has Multiple Sclerosis and finds arttherapeutic. Since retiring, she has moretime to enjoy her family and hobbies. “OswegoWinter Scene” was inspired by winter lakeeffectsnowfalls in Oswego and the hills behindher home on which her family sleds in thewinter. It is a reflection of wintertime serenityafter a snowfall.Honorable Mention: ““Bonnet” in Field ofSunflowers and Perennials”Snow Trees in LevitownAnnalise Erlanson“Snow Trees in Levitown” remindsAnnalise Erlanson, 51, of her backyard where she grew up. In additionto painting, she enjoys music andplaying the piano. Annalise is amember of the David Clark LearningCenter, a program of TransitionalLiving Services.26

Block LinesJeremy KelleyJeremy Kelley, 17, is a highschool senior with autism.He lives in the CentralSquare-Constantia areawith two sisters and onebrother. He is inspired bycolors, patterns and nature,which calm his moodsand help him concentrate.“Block Lines” was createdas part of a school project.He carved an abstract leaflikepattern, which he thenused to create differentprints.Honorable Mention:“Dinosaur Days”The Warm PlanetFrederick G. KretzmerFrederick Kretzmer, 62, grew up in New Jersey and movedto Central New York in the 1990’s. He started paintingwhen he was sixty and is self-taught. Frederick’s inspirationsare American culture, individual aspirations, and the politicalenvironment. He believes the planet in the yellow sky of“Warm Planet” signifies the ‘Green Affect.’Honorable Mention: “Argyle Hypothesis “Let’s Get Togetherfor a Drink””27

Honorable MentionThe UNIQUE Editorial Boardwishes to recognize the talentand creativity of the followingsubmissions:Joshua AlbertRobotsStanley BellSandyTonja BleichertThe Journey of LifeBriananichole Burke-HillAnother Tale, Another StorySheala BurksThe Noblest StatesmanThe Wedding of Teddy BearsDavid BurnsButterfly BreakfastThe Early Bird Who Got the WormMark CappolettiMe and My DadMichael JordanNakia CasePlay GamesMichele CousineauChocolate is My DrugStubborn as a BullPhilip DawsonWinterscapeRandy DraughnBest Pals: Donald & DaisyBest Pals: Mickey & MinnieBetsey DuFourGood MorningTheodora EmchJoy of FireworksWatching Over My FamilyKim GrindleCaptain MidnightSusan HeffronAutumn Still LifeRoses in a Black VaseTaeshaun JenkinsGraduationHard StudentAlfonso Kuss, Jr.Untitled #6Untitled #9Dawn LiddleA Day in the Rainbow Rock StreamFrog KingDavid ListowskiSyracuse CastleWestcott Street DragonLloyd LokhartFuture HopeJody Jane MailletMy Hero – My MotherKareem McKinney Browna.k.a. Secret Sensations Public EyeCadillac LaneTake Your Shoes OffLindsey MorrisThe PrincessCheryl MullerStencilJenny C. PetrellaApron DollMagnetLorraine PiazzaLeaf LadyJeremy RavenscraftThe Dark TowerAlison ReidPassion FlowerPeonyCourtney RichMom and Her BabiesThe Sea OceanJoseph RufoButterflySplash the HorseJoseph SchnittAlmond BlossomsRed Wood (The Clock)Dexter ShawEverything In BloomPaul SingerCountry Scene by the RiverIndian BraveErica SorarCats in SpaceMelissa SorarCats in SpaceRebecca StaplePurple PassionLinda C. TownsendMargaretKatrina UrbenI Now Pronounce You Meowand MeowedPeaceful Hide AwaySam WayneClonesVillainsMark WilsonChallengedThis Day Should Have Never Been28

Night WatercolorChris SheridanWhen creating “Night Watercolor,” Chris Sheridan, 38, wanted to capture the feeling oftwilight. He used a wet-into-wet watercolor painting technique. Chris loves to work with awide variety of mediums, including ceramics, watercolor, plaster cast, and acrylic. He livesin Syracuse and is a member of the David Clark Learning Center, a program of TransitionalLiving Services.