April is National Poetry Month! The Academy of American Poets – an organization that includes booksellers, librarians, teachers, publishers, poets, and literary associations – met in 1995 to discuss the need for a month-long celebration of poetry. The meeting was successful, and the holiday was officially launched in April of 1996. There are 6 key goals of National Poetry Month:
1) to highlight the achievements and legacy of American poets
2) to encourage poetry reading
3) to help teachers introduce poetry into the classroom
4) to increase media coverage of poetry and poets
5) increase publication of poetry books
6) to increase support for poetry and the poets who produce it
Did you know quilting may date back as far back as 3400 BCE?! It has remained a popular skill and hobby for many ever since it arrived in the United States with the first European settlers. It is a rich tradition with many interesting developments and stylistic differences. In honor of the rising popularity of the annual March 18th Quilting Day celebration, consider visiting one of the Panhandle’s wonderful quilting stores listed below: 
Are you located in or around Grand Ridge? Do you have children? Looking to create fun memories and lifelong mementos with them? Consider reaching out to a local photographer, Chloe Bishop, to schedule a fun mini-session for the kiddos in February. The theme is princess/superhero, and is appropriate for all ages. Bishop has experience working with children and has produced beautiful portraits such as those attached to this post (please do not repost without permission).
Today, January 23rd is National Handwriting Day! It was established in 1977 by the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association to promote the consumption of pens, pencils, and writing paper. The date chosen is significant because it is the birthday of John Hancock, the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence. Celebrate this annual event by putting a writing utensil to a writing medium: 
