About 1,700 Alabama farmers gave Ozark watercolor artist Jack DeLoney a standing ovation this morning as the famous painter of agricultural scenes received the Alabama Farmers Federation's Image of Agriculture Award.

Federation President Jerry Newby presented the inaugural award to DeLoney during the organization's 91st annual meeting held at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center.

"Jack's work has inspired many, has brought farm images to life and has served as a piece of nostalgia for those who aren't even associated with farming," Newby said. "We are proud to be able to present Jack our first-ever Image Of Agriculture Award, which is given to an individual who has dedicated his or her life to enhancing the image of farmers."

At the end of this year, DeLoney is closing his gallery and will cease to produce limited edition prints. He plans to travel throughout the United States and continue to paint original works and commissioned pieces.

For immediate release–The original Christmas musical, “My Favorite Christmas Card,” will return this year to Frazer United Methodist Church for a second year by popular demand. The free program will be held at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15 and Sunday, Dec. 16 in Frazer’s Wesley Hall.

“As a child, I was fascinated by the beautiful artwork that graced the Christmas cards my parents received,” says Ken Roach, co-writer of the drama. “Those paintings seemed to be trying tell me story. In these performances, we bring those stories to life on stage. Ultimately our goal is to convey that Christmas itself is a kind of “card,” a message from God to mankind of His love.” The drama written by Roach and Will Adams, and performed by Frazer volunteer actors, includes scenes that are both humorous and poignant, portraying the joy, struggles, and hope of Christmas.

November 2012 marks the beginning of Alabama River Region Arts Center’s 3rd year.  The first year volunteers worked tirelessly renovating the old Jr. High, painting, scraping old paint, acquiring furniture and setting up policies.  In 2012 ARRAC goals of developing repeatable programs produced the following program structure and continue to improve the facilities and policies.  Annual programs are M.U.G.S. Fest (Feb); Camp ARTumpka (summer); and Christmas Faire (Nov/Dec) programs.  The monthly structures are Blue Grass Jam; Sit ‘n Sew; Sit ‘n Scrap (first Saturday); and Clubs for Kids (Tuesday afternoons).  Still, a wide variety of classes are offered as artists, crafters, musicians, and singers, both experienced teachers and novices bring their talents to the people of the River Region.