Lewiston Council on Arts releases schedule of events

The Lewiston Council on the Arts has announced its 2014 schedule of events.

•The Lewiston Jazz Project will be held Wednesday evenings from July 9 through Aug. 13, at Hennepin Park Gazebo at Fourth and Center streets in Lewiston.

Beginning at 7 p.m., seven local jazz performers will play under the instruction of pianist/composer Ron Corsaro, until 9 p.m.

These concerts are open to the general public, free of charge.

•The 10th annual "Summer of '69" is also a free event. Come enjoy 1960s music courtesy of the Loved Ones, the County Orphanage, the Invaders, and special guest, Grammy Award winner Gary Baker at the Hennepin Park Gazebo on Friday, July 11, at 6 p.m.

•Blues fans, be sure to attend "Blue Mondays" at Hennepin Park Gazebo to hear Steve Burnside and the Original Marquis July 14, the Dave Constantino Band on July 21, the Chicago Blues Connection July 28, The Rod Nickson Project Aug. 4, Marsha McWilson Aug. 11 and Tommy Z Band Aug. 18. Concerts begin at 7 p.m. and run until 9 p.m. The Niagara Falls Bridge Commission sponsors these free shows.

•The annual Lewiston Art Festival will be held on Center Street, Aug. 9 and 10, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This year's must-sees include College Alley, made up of local student artwork, and the Modern Art Zone, where attendees will have the opportunity to create their own art using recycled materials. KeyBank, the LCA, Modern Recycling, Mount St. Mary's Hospital, Niagara Falls Bridge Commission and Tin Pan Alley are sponsoring the free event.

•The annual Key Bank Chalk Walk Competition takes place at the Lewiston Art Festival, Saturday Aug. 9, from noon to 5 p.m. This year's main challenge is for contestants to compose a "selfie" in the style of a famous artist's self-portrait. The contest prizes are cash awards, trophies and bragging rights.

•Partake in historical and educational tours of Lewiston every Saturday from Sept. 6 to Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. at 476 Center St. During the Marble Orchard Ghost Walks, visitors can learn about the village cemetery, myths, and eerie local tales staring ghosts that some say still occupy Lewiston today. A flashlight is recommended. Cost is $15 for adults, $12 LCA members, $6 for children 12 and under.

•During the Lewiston Harvest Festival, the Earth Voices of the Great Spirit will be held Sept. 27 from noon to 5 p.m. to celebrate Native American culture locally. Visitors also can experience the beautiful heritage and traditions in the Lewiston Peace Garden, at 476 Center St.

The celebration is free.

Come support Lewiston Council of the Arts and enjoy some of the best local events right in your backyard.

For more information on LCA's 2014 events, visit www.artcouncil.org or call 716-754-0166.