Free arts workshops for vets

Newburgh — Free arts workshops in photography, painting, stonewall building and writing are being offered to Orange County veterans and their families this fall. Arts for Vets is an opportunity for county veterans and their families to experience the power of artistic activities, learn skills and work with other people in the county. The program hires Orange County artists to teach the workshops. “We are happy to continue and expand the workshops,” said Dawn Ansbro, board president of the Arts Council. One of the teachers in the program is Ramona Torres of Newburgh. Torres was a military post photographer whose job took her to new heights, literally, as she photographed while hanging from helicopters. She works with both film and digital mediums and specializes in capturing mother nature at her best. The Introductory Photography Workshops are scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. on Nov. 4 and Dec. 2 at the River Art Emporium, 317 Liberty St. in Newburgh. Participants should bring a camera and if possible, the manual. Additional workshops include painting with artist Shawn Dell Joyce and the Walkill River School; nature walks and family hikes with Bill Wisner and the Bellvale Community in Chester; Vets Write Program with experienced writers and teachers beginning Oct. 29; the Art and Craft of The Stone Wall with mason and stone artist Bob Hilfiger, beginning Oct. 27. For more information about these programs or to register for a workshop, call Arts for Vets Program Coordinator Megan Cooke at 469-8111 or email artsforvets@hotmail.com.