This tradition was started in Mobile, Alabama, though many associate it with New Orleans. Mobile first celebrated Mardi Gras in 1703, with the party really heating up in 1831. The colors closely associated with Mardi Gras also have a special meaning: purple stands for justice, green for faith, and gold for power. Here in Asbury Place, we had our own celebrations, starting off with happy hour and Mardi Gras Music by Mr. Clazz! We also had some music straight from Mobile at our weekly Cheddar & Corks Performance with David Reid and Wiley Porter. We finished our festivities with, of course, King cake and coffee.

We had a surprise guest visit us in RISE to add even more joy to our day!

Every week, we are fortunate to host numerous exceptionally talented individuals. We witness their incredible abilities in singing, various instruments, and sharing historical insights. Many folks in Asbury Place mark their calendars in anticipation of these performances. To celebrate our performers' unique talents, each month, I will spotlight one of these remarkable individuals, gaining insight into their backgrounds and getting to know our favorite performers even better!

"Art has always been my love. I worked at The Poughkeepsie Journal lay out and selling display ads. I worked in IBM's, Fishkill, NY Patent Department illustrating inventions created by engineers and scientists. I taught elementary school children at local schools in Greensboro, NC. There is more to tell another time.

I was born in Poughkeepsie, NY. I have an Associate of Applied Science degree from Dutchess Community College in commercial art, and a Bachelor of Science in Art Education from the State University of New York at New Paltz.

Why do I give art lessons at Arbor Acres? I love art in all forms, and I love to watch others enjoy creating their very own artwork. The residents of Arbor Acres add a lot to my life through our conversations. I enjoy sharing interesting facts that relate to the project at hand.

I also enjoy working with Arbor Acres' very special activity directors and employees. I see the care, attention, and love they show the residents and I feel that care in my heart, too. For all this, I am grateful."