Tweens and Teens roll up their artists' sleeves to fight cancer: Artzuno.com and 12 year old singing phenom Abby Miller have joined forces to fight a rare form of childhood cancer. Neuroblastoma affects some 650 children each year. The online website for artists will, on Thursday, April 1, 2010, launch "If I Can Hold Your Hand" by Abby Miller and written by Andy Grube, one of Artzuno's Founding Directors. The single will be available exclusively on Artzuno.com for a price of $1.99 and all proceeds will go towards the Band of Parents Charity for Neuroblastoma to assist in research.

Neuroblastoma first came to the attention of Artzuno's Marketing Director Jim Carella when he saw a story of 4 year old Taylor Love battling the rare cancer. Meanwhile, Taylor's friend, Abby Miller was giving her time and talents by performing cover songs in public and collecting donations on behalf of her ailing friend. According to Carella, “This is a great opportunity to highlight Abby's talent on Artzuno and contribute to her amazing fundraising efforts." Approximately over $800,000.00 is needed to continue the research needed to find a cure.

Grayson High School presented "Beat the Beast," an art fundraiser to benefit the Melanoma Research Foundation last night. The Art Exhibit/Sale was organized by first year Grayson H.S. Fine Arts teacher, Megan Brockington. "My father has had four Melanoma surgeries since I was in high school," says Brockington. "I thought a fundraiser showcasing student artwork would bring awareness to this cancer that claims the life of one American every hour." The event, which featured Relief Sculptures taught in Brockington's class, was held in the Tech Lobby of Grayson from 6-8 pm. Brockington says, "My students were thrilled to be a part of this show, selling each of their pieces for 25.00. Our goal is to raise 1200.00." The event also featured bake sale items and an activities table where students could paint a ribbon to support Melanoma research. To support "Beat The Beast," visit www.firstgiving.com/meganbrockington.com

New Art Program comes to DeKalb County:  Young Audiences, Woodruff Arts Center (YAWAC) recently announced the launch of its Arts for Learning Lessons in partnership with DeKalb County School System. The Arts for Learning Lessons is a ground-breaking suppleme ntal literacy initiative that blends creativity and discipline of the arts with learning science to raise student achievement in reading and writing and to develop skills for learning and life.

“In the DeKalb County School System, we recognize the important role the arts play in developing a child’s creativity, communication and critical-thinking skills and improving their overall academic performance,” said Gloria Talley, Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning. The Arts for Learning Lessons will be delivered in extended day programs for 175 students in third, fourth and fifth grade at the following Title I elementary schools in DeKalb County: Rowland, Toney, Snapfinger, Oakcliff Theme, Jolly, Glenhaven and Rainbow. For more information, visit www.yawac.org

Friendship, Fun and Felt:  The second session of "All Mixed Up Art Class for Kids" wrapped up last night at Snellville Framing & Fine Arts. The super spunky and talented troupe of young ladies aged five to seven took a bow only after putting on a dazzling display of puppetry with their handcrafted felt characters. Shown left to right, Hamsty the hamster, Kiki the hamster, Ellie, Anna, Sara and Ashley.

The next session will focus on acrylic painting on canvas. Cost is 65.00 plus 10.00 supply fee and meets four consecutive Thursdays from 4-5:30 pm. (Class size limited to 10.) Please email sharna.fulton@att.net for more information.