Genesee County Democratic Committee Chair Lorie Longhany had a chance this week to combine her love of art -- she's an art teacher and an artist -- with her commitment to politics when she attended an event in Rochester honoring Congresswoman Louise Slaughter, whom Longhany described as a long-time, steadfast supporter of the arts. Slaughter co-chairs the congressional arts caucus.
Caroline Kennedy was the keynote speaker and quoted her father, President John Kennedy, who said, "I look forward to an America which will not be afraid of grace and beauty, which commands respect, not only for its strength, but for its civilization, as well."
Attendees also enjoyed performances by the Tony Award winning the Garth Fagan dance troupe and jazz pianist Gap Mangione.
Pictured above, Teresa Martillotta, former Orleans County chair and 53-year state
committee member, current Orleans County chair Jeanne Crane, Slaughter and Longhany.
Lorie, Great picture. It
Lorie,
Great picture. It looks like you had a good time. I'm sure Caroline's speech was inspiring.
I'm so glad you went!
Thank you, Bea. In 1968
Thank you, Bea.
In 1968 Bobby Kennedy made a run through our area stopping at the American Legion in LeRoy. My father took me up to shake his hand. Teresa, pictured above, was Bobby's driver that day.
It was a thrill to meet Caroline. She is lovely and works tirelessly for the arts. She raises hundreds of millions of dollars for art education in the NYC school district.
It was a wonderful event, honoring the great work that Louise does for the art community. Louise once represented Genesee County and my predecessor, Ray Yacuzzo, did a yeoman's job on Louise's campaign. She mentioned all those memories and how much she enjoys eating at LB Grand in LeRoy.