June 2025
SHE'S ROCKING IT in ENUMCLAW, WASHINGTON!
Kristin Wierenga
Photo Courtesy: Kristin Wierenga Resources:
|
What type of educational programs do you provide?
We offer online and in-person educational programs designed to help families across the U.S. grow their own nutrient-dense food, cook seasonally, and reduce their reliance on the conventional food system. Through online workshops, checklists, garden planning tools, and seasonal guides, we empower home growers — especially parents — to build confidence in the garden and the kitchen. While our core focus is on adult education, we’ve also hosted in-person garden tours for children with age-appropriate curriculum to spark curiosity about where food comes from. Do you collaborate with other farmers in your community? One of our most meaningful collaborations has been with other local farmers as we work together to explore how we can support each other’s farms and potentially create a cooperative model. These conversations have focused on how to reach more customers, share resources, and strengthen our local food system as a whole. We’ve also been actively involved with the downtown business community and our local farmers market, looking for ways to collaborate on events, cross-promotions, and community education. These partnerships are all about building stronger connections between local growers, small businesses, and the families we serve. What has been your biggest challenge? One of the biggest challenges has been helping people understand the true value of nutrient-dense, locally grown food and the time, labor and care that go into producing it. We’ve found that many customers expect prices to be lower than grocery store produce, even though our costs and standards are much higher. It’s a broader cultural issue: Many people are willing to spend on convenience or entertainment but hesitate to invest in learning how to grow and cook nourishing food. That’s been a challenge not just with market sales, but also with our educational programs. |
About Kristin
Kristin Wierenga is the cofounder of Locust Hill Farm, where she helps modern families reconnect with their food by growing abundant, organic gardens and turning harvests into wholesome meals. Passionate about seasonal living, nutrient-dense food, and self-reliance, she teaches others how to reduce their dependence on grocery stores and embrace the rhythms of homegrown life.
About Locust Hill Farm
This is a four-and-a-half-acre, family-run, educational farm and garden located at the foothills of Mt. Rainier in Washington State. The founders are committed to sustainable, regenerative farming practices and follow no till methods. The mission is to educate and empower families to take back control of their food — by growing their own or sourcing directly from farmers who prioritize soil health, animal welfare, and nutrient density. Core belief: Understanding how food is produced leads to better choices for our bodies, our communities, and the planet.
Photo Courtesy: Kristin Wierenga
|
Do you know someone who is rocking it in your local area? Email us!
TIPS & TALES
Women in Business Provide their Expertise
Women in Business Provide their Expertise
|
|
Jeanne Kelly
Founder of The Kelly Group Jeanne shares "Three Common Credit Pitfalls" readers should avoid.
As the founder of The Kelly Group in 2000, Jeanne Kelly helps clients understand credit reporting, achieve high credit scores, and avoid identity theft. She is a nationally recognized authority on credit consulting and credit scores and is the author of The 90-Day Credit Challenge and The Credit Makeover. Jeanne has appeared on The Today Show, The Breakfast Club, Success Magazine, Huffington Post, Credit.com, MyFico.com, ESME.com, and more. Most importantly, she is a trusted resource, advocate of credit education, and the go-to expert for individuals looking to improve their credit.
|
CREDIT OVER COFFEE PODCAST
With her New York charm and no-nonsense attitude, Jeanne makes navigating credit, mortgages, real estate, side hustles, and more feel approachable and engaging. Whether sharing personal anecdotes or expert insights, Jeanne's goal is to demystify finance and empower listeners to take control of their financial futures. |
OUT & ABOUT
The Deer Head Inn and All that Jazz ~ Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania
|
Slideshow Credit: Myrna and Kirk Haskell
Bonus: A terrific hike up Mount Minsi via the Appalachian Trail. Find parking off Mountain Road, adjacent to the Deer Head. Caution: There are steep/rocky sections along the way up to the top, but the views are worth it. Bring lots of water, pack bug spray, and wear good hiking shoes. Note: Moderately challenging, even for those who hike often.
|
"I'm a big fan of this venue. My first trip to the Deer Head Inn was over a decade ago. Mary Carrig, co-owner, is a delight to chat with. Owning Deer Head Inn since 2005 has been a labor of love for her. Jazz enthusiasts will enjoy the music, as the Deer Head continues with the tradition of booking gifted musicians, both locally and from areas throughout the U.S. I've met and then later featured several notable women who played here: Amina Figarova, Adison Evans and Najwa Parkins. The food is delicious as well. My sesame crusted ahi tuna was perfectly cooked and scrumptious. The menu has gluten free, vegan and vegetarian choices. Stay the night in one of the quaint rooms, tastefully decorated to hold true to the Deer Head's history. Visitors can enjoy lounging on one of the expansive wraparound porches with comfortable furniture. Continental breakfast is served to those staying the night."
~ Myrna Beth Haskell, Executive Editor, Reports
Tip: Besides the quaint shops, nearby eateries, and the beloved Village Farmer Bakery (a must-visit) in town, East Stroudsburg's downtown shops and restaurants are less than a 10-minute drive from the inn. So, there is plenty to do if staying for a long weekend.
|
About the Deer Head Inn
Built in the 1840s, this inn is the oldest continuously running jazz club in the country and is located in historic Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania. There are eight rooms and two suites available for those planning to stay for one or more nights. Jazz greats who have played at the Deer Head: John Coates, Jr., Al Cohn, Zoot Sims, Urbie Green, Steve Gilmore, Bill Goodwin, to name a just a few. Since co-owner Mary Carrig bought the inn with her beloved, late brother, Dennis, and two other longtime fans of the club, there have been several major restorations, including the rooms on the third and fourth floors.
|
Getting Social in Kingston, New York!
|
Video Narrated and Filmed by Sandra Bertrand
Edits: Myrna Haskell |
"Sanctuary readers will remember an earlier feature we did on artist Anne Sanger and her Pinkwater Gallery in Kingston, New York (2022). As an artist and retailer, she has proven herself to be an indispensable addition to the uptown community! On May 10th, I was delighted to attend the one-year anniversary of the Kingston Social Gallery, which not only exhibits fine arts but offers an inviting café and contemporary gifts for the home."
~ Sandra Bertrand, Travel & Culture Editor, Reports
Check out Kingston Social
237 Fair Street Kingston, New York |
About Kingston Social
In 2023, three friends with a love of design, art, and great coffee decided to collaborate on their shared vision for a welcoming and creative space in Uptown Kingston. Together they bought the building located at 237 Fair Street and first renovated the two upper floors (now available for lease as creative/office space) and then completed the rebirth of the ground floor as KINGSTON SOCIAL.
The gallery is run by Anne Sanger.
The café is run by Helena Palazzi. The Mercantile is run by Samara Daly. |
ASK THE AUTHOR
Ana Hebra Flaster
Photo Courtesy: Ana Hebra Flaster "This is a memoir filled with wisdom, history, joy, and the reverberating waves of grief. I wanted to sit with the viejos and all the love and chaos in their multi-generational home and hold on to Abuela and her stories forever." ~ Marjan Kamali, USA Today bestselling author of The Lion Women of Tehran |
As you reflect on the time shortly after your family's "exit papers" were dropped off at your home in Cuba (November 1967), what was your perspective as a six-year-old child? Are there any first impressions you recall? Running my hand over a fascinating discovery: carpeting on a wall at the refugee center — or maybe it was on a wall of the plane. Nubby, wiry, and soft at the same time. Alfombra, my mother explained. Wow. A triple decker bunk bed in the refugee center that towered over me. The first blast of cold air when we came out of the plane in New York, the shock of it, the smell of cold. Watching my first snowfall from a window and noticing how some of the little white cups flew up...not down. Magic. What values or traditions from your homeland, Cuba, do you still hold dear? Noche Buena, Christmas Eve, is a wonderful tradition that we celebrated no matter how little we had. My parents were thrilled to be able to celebrate it again, because the revolutionary government had suspended Christmas. What piece of advice would you give a young refugee first coming to the U.S.? When you feel scared, try to make yourself brave. When you run into a mean person, remember there are more good ones than bad ones out there. Love your old people and listen to their stories. |
About Ana
Ana Hebra Flaster has written about Cuba and the Cuban American experience for national print and online media including The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and The Boston Globe, as well as for her popular Substack, @CubaCurious.
Click Book Cover for an Exclusive Excerpt
|
EVENT HOP
Annual Women's Exhibition Draws Enthusiastic Crowd
|
Video Credit: Myrna Haskell
|
NAWA's 136th Annual Member Exhibition Reception
June 13, 2025 "The work at this prestigious exhibition is always top-notch, and this year exceeded my expectations. It was the first year NAWA held its annual at Leonovich Gallery (520 W. 24th Street, New York, NY). I spoke briefly with gallery owner and award-winning fashion designer and fine artist, Katya Leonovich, who is thrilled to be in this new location in the heart of the Chelsea neighborhood, an influential art district. "I am extremely passionate about supporting women artists," shares Katya, a member of NAWA.
It's always a thrill to catch up with friends and make new acquaintances while browsing the inspirational and incredibly diverse works. The energy and camaraderie at this event is always a high point, too. I highly recommend!" ~ Myrna Haskell, Executive Editor, Reports
|
About NAWA
Founded in 1889, the National Association of Women Artists (NAWA) is the first women’s fine art organization in the United States. It is a vibrant community of professional women artists that strives to support its members and women artists at large through exhibitions, programs and education. The organization's history is a testament to the strength and resilience of a group of strong women who would not accept being shut out of the art salons, galleries, and art exhibitions open to male artists during the 19th century. Their founding of the organization (subsequently named the National Association of Women Artists, Inc.) proves that, despite adversity and discrimination, women are an integral and valuable part of the arts community.
The exhibition is open to the public through June 21st.
Gallery Hours: Tuesday through Sunday ~ 12 to 6:00 p.m. |
Nonprofit Helps Children with Terminal Illness and their Families
|
Slideshow Photos: Myrna Haskell
|
Making Wishes Come True: A Million Dreams Gala
June 7, 2025 "This was the second year I attended this annual event to help raise money for Angels of Light. Lori Cassia-Decker and her team of dedicated volunteers work tirelessly all year long to help children with terminal illness and their families. This event is the largest, but the organization holds diverse events and volunteer opportunities throughout the year. To go with the circus theme this year, tethered hot air balloon rides, people on stilts, animals for children to interact with, dance performances and more were part of the line-up. Although, it rained all day long, the skies began to clear just as the event started, almost as if the universe was providing a sign of hope. I spoke briefly with Lori, whose dazzling smile and unending energy serves to uplift everyone around her. I first met Lori at a women's professional networking event more than eight years ago, and the organization has expanded its services tremendously since then. Bravo to all involved!"
~ Myrna Beth Haskell, Executive Editor, Reports
|
About Angels of Light
Angels of Light is a 501(c)3 providing assistance to children and families in the Hudson Valley Region of New York who are faced with life-threatening illness. Once focused on providing gifts for the children struggling with terminal illness, the organization now provides year-round assistance with medical bills, utilities, food, gas, and much more.
2025: The opening of a new Activity Room in the Pediatric Unit at Vassar Brothers Medical Center was dedicated to the memory of Christine “Rocky” Ault. 
Photo: Instagram @jenkelll47
|
A Stunning Opening at the MET
|
Video Filmed by Sandra Bertrand
Edits: Myrna Haskell |
"I made a preview visit to the magnificently reimagined Michael C. Rockefeller Wing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and I have one word for it: WOW! The Arts of Africa galleries include a collection of some 500 sub-Saharan African creations from the Middle Ages to the present, and each one is worthy of repeated visits. Origin stories abound, like the ancestor poles from New Guinea. Such artworks deserve the kind of open reverential space that is now their permanent home."
~ Sandra Bertrand, Travel & Culture Editor, Reports
|
About the Exhibitions in the Michael C. Rockefeller Wing
Following a multiyear renovation, the Michael C. Rockefeller Wing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art opened to enthusiastic crowds. Three exhibitions are ongoing: 1) Arts of Africa encompasses works from Mali to Madagascar, created from the twelfth century to the present, in a diversity of media, ranging from wood sculpture and textiles to photography. 2) Arts of the Oceania includes artworks from the large island of New Guinea and the coastal archipelagos that stretch beyond its shores to the north, central, and eastern Pacific, as well as the two neighboring regions of Australia and the islands of Southeast Asia, whose Indigenous communities all share a common ancestry. 3) Arts of the Ancient Americas represent the artistic legacy of Indigenous artists from across North, Central, and South America as well as the Caribbean prior to 1600 CE.
|
GALLERY VISITS
An All-in-One Stop ~ New York, New York
|
Slideshow Photo Credit: Myrna Haskell
|
"I stopped by 547 W. 27th Street to find Ceres Gallery's "Raising Women's Voices 2025" show, a group exhibition of select gallery artists, which included "Unstoppable" by our Fine Arts page sponsor, Mary Ahern. In an adjacent space in the gallery, visitors will find a solo show by Nancy Quin titled "Armoresque." Both shows are must-sees and run through June 21st."
~ Myrna Beth Haskell, Executive Editor, Reports
More About Ceres Gallery
This is a feminist, not-for-profit, alternative gallery in New York City, dedicated to the promotion of contemporary women in the arts. Ceres provides an exhibition space that enhances public awareness and helps remediate women’s limited access to commercial galleries. It provides a showcase for women artists regardless of age, artistic style, or commercial viability to exhibit their work in New York City.
|
A Surprise: So Many Shows!
"I hadn't realized that a number of other galleries, most artist-run co-ops, were also open in this same location. Although time was limited, I particularly enjoyed the following:
Running through June 21st, are a trio of solo shows at The Painting Center: Lauren Skelly Bailey's "Craze", Jamie Powel's "Love is Alive," and Lisa Petker Mintz's "Impulse & Improv." Two shows which were soon closing, but definitely worth looking into: Renowned sculptor Mary Lou Alberetti's "Ruins, Remnants, and Rust" at Blue Mountain Gallery, an exhibition showcasing her latest collection of ceramic reliefs, collages, and mixed media works that incorporate rusted metal elements. Eve Mansdorf's "Goodbye To All That..." was a pleasure to view at First Street Gallery. Partial artist statement: 'There is no overt message or narrative, but things fall into place as a painting evolves. A world is created out of the confluence of the empirical reality of what I am looking at, the subconscious reason it matters to me to look at it anyway, and often an underlying sense of irony.' |
SNEAK PEEK RECOMMENDATIONS
|
Video Narrated and Filmed by Sandra Bertrand
Edits: Myrna Haskell |
"Something on my radar was to visit Kingston’s new 68 Prince Street Gallery where color abstractionist painter Francine Tint’s solo exhibit, “Symbolic of the Whole,” was showing through June 15th. Francine’s successes include more than 30 solo exhibits in the United States and Europe, as well as the Pollock-Krasner award in 2004, 2017 and 2023. At 82, she is still a creative force to be reckoned with."
~ Sandra Bertrand, Travel & Culture Editor, Reports
© Francine Tint
|
About Prince Street Gallery
68 Prince Street Gallery is a contemporary art gallery located in the burgeoning midtown arts district of Kingston, New York. The space is 1800 square feet with the ability to showcase large sculptures and paintings as well as intimate books and prints. The gallery's mission is to show and nurture a selection of artists with deep commitment to their practice, be they emerging or established.
Gallery Hours:
Thursday ~ 12 to 5 p.m. Friday ~ 12 to 5 p.m. Saturday ~ 12 to 6 p.m. Sunday ~ 12 to 5 p.m. |
|
Slideshow Photos: Courtesy Listed on Image
On June 2, 1863, Harriet Tubman, under the command of Union Colonel James Montgomery, became the first woman to lead a major military operation in the United States when she and 150 African American Union soldiers rescued more than 700 slaves in the Combahee Ferry Raid during the Civil War. |
Picturing Freedom: Harriet Tubman and the Combahee River Raid This exhibition is inspired by the untold story of the Combahee River Raid from the perspective of Harriet Tubman and the enslaved people she helped to free that is revealed for the first time through groundbreaking research by Carnegie Mellon University historian, Edda Fields-Black, Ph.D., in her recent book COMBEE: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War (Blackstone Publishing, Inc.). The exhibition features major works by some of America's leading artists honoring Harriet Tubman throughout more than 100 years of artmaking in America. These paintings and sculptures are combined with stunning environmental photographs by J Henry Fair, renowned environmental photographer, of the Combahee River serpentine landscape where the heroic raid took place, alongside historical items and archival images.
"We were alerted to this special exhibition that I thought would be of interest to our readers. It includes an inspiring mix of history and diverse artworks that both celebrate Harriet Tubman's brave leadership and the harsh terrain enslaved people had to traverse to find freedom."
~Myrna Beth Haskell, Executive Editor, Reports
|
About Gibbes Museum
Established in 1858, the Museum’s art collection was founded as the Carolina Art Association and is heralded as one of the earliest and most longstanding arts institutions in the United States. In 1905, the Museum moved into a new Beaux Arts building at 135 Meeting Street in the heart of the Charleston Historic District.
Exhibition Details:
Now through October 5, 2025 Gibbes Museum of Art Gallery 8 & 9 135 Meeting Street Charleston, South Carolina Gallery Hours: Monday through Saturday ~ 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday ~ 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. |
PODCAST PORTAL
|
|
Find us on YouTube @Sanctuary2016!
|
ANNUAL COMMUNITY PROJECT
Send us your recipe for our community cookbook. 
Click Cookbook Cover for Information & Instructions
|
READER RAMBLE
Share a popular summer festival in your area. 
Click Image for Local Hot Spots and Send Us Your Recommendations
|
Happy Father's Day to all the incredible dads out there!
