Remembering Beth

Well, this post is quite late, but I needed time to sort out what I wanted to say. Tuesday, March 24th I arrived at the museum to learn my friend, co-volunteer, and mentor for 3 credits of my in-progress practicum work, had passed away. It really didn't seem real to me at the time I heard the news. I was set to begin another week of practicum work and had just discussed my progress with her a few days prior. She had been battling off and on sickness for about three weeks, but so had a lot of other people, it had been going around. As the day went on it did eventually sink in that Beth was really gone. I'm selfishly disappointed that we won't get to do all of the wonderful art projects and classes we discussed together. I'm also somewhat overwhelmed when I consider the hole that she left, not just in our hearts, but in the community. Beth was a go-getter and touched many lives. She left us unexpectedly and far too soon.

I hope that I can honor Beth's legacy by helping the Art Association and the Carver Community Center continue to offer and grow the programs Beth was so committed to recently. She had plans, dreams, sometimes it seemed like limitless ideas about what to create next with her students and fiber art friends. We were mid-progress on planning a more efficient public mural completion program. I will finish documenting our program idea and work alongside other members of the Art Association to see it through. I have requested the mural program be named the Beth Notaro Community Mural Camp. Following approval of the program from KAA, I will share the details and how to participate.

Barbara and I have welcomed a couple members of Beth's family into her Carver Center classroom who hope to assist for a while in keeping the Wednesday night art program going. I have volunteered to provide instruction through at least May, but will stay longer if needed to keep Beth's classroom there alive with art.

We love and miss you, Beth. It's on us now to step up and serve!

**If you would like to volunteer or donate to support these programs with us, please contact the Carver Community Center at 765-457-9318 or the Kokomo Art Association 765-459-4579 or leave a comment with contact information here.**