Calling for works of art for 'art heist'
PUTNAM — The Putnam Arts Council (PAC) has issued a call for local artists who would like to donate a work of art for their second annual PAC Art Heist. It’s is a wonderful opportunity for artists to share their talent with new collectors (displayed in many Putnam locations prior to the Heist) while supporting local artists and art-based businesses through PAC scholarships and grants. In addition, each donor will be entered into a drawing for two Bradley Playhouse Flex Passes (each pass good for 4 plays in the 2025 season). 
Artwork donations must be valued at a minimum of $50 and can be any subject matter, media and theme. The PAC urges artists to submit their best representation of their talent as the Heist ticket holders will be competing to own the best! 
The Heist will be from 5 to 8 p.m. March 8 at the Montgomery Ward Building, 112 Main St. Starting in early February the public will be invited to purchase $50 tickets which will give them the opportunity to “steal” their favorite artwork during the event. It’s a unique and fun event where each ticket holder goes home with a new piece of art worth at least the same as their ticket price, usually much more.  More information: PutnamCtArtsCouncil.com.

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Agricultural society elects Sandness; names new directors

WOODSTOCK — The Woodstock Agricultural Society elected officers and named two new directors at its recent annual meeting.
The Society, whose purpose is to oversee and operate the annual Woodstock Fair, re-elected Jeff Sandness of Eastford as president for a fourth consecutive year. Dr. Steven Raheb of Pomfret Center was elected as first vice-president with Emilie Hebert of Woodstock selected as second vice-president. Gail White of Woodstock will continue to serve as treasurer of the Society as will Susan Webster of Woodstock as executive secretary. 
Bradley O’Connor of Ellington was chosen to serve as a member-at-large on the Society’s executive committee along with Tim Walsh (Tolland)
The Society also elevated two life members to its Board of Directors.
Ashley Rabello of Woodstock was elected to a three-year term on the Society’s Board of Directors while Barry O’Connor of Woodstock will fill a one-year term.
Others who will continue to serve on the board of directors for the next three years include Glenn Boies (Woodstock), Hebert; Susan Hibbard (Woodstock); Calvin Neely (Woodstock); Raheb; Walsh and White. 
Sandness thanked Patricia Kelly, a past president who will not be returning to the board of directors, for her long-time service to the Society.
The Woodstock Fair, Always Labor Day weekend, will celebrate its 164th year in 2025.

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The End of a Winter Day
A winter day goes out in a blaze of color in Woodstock. More photos on page 4. Expanded photo array Wed. night on our FB page: Putnam Town Crier & Northeast Ledger. Linda Lemmon photo.

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