Construction and economic development that's going on in the city of Watertown might be leaving arts and culture behind. But some people are trying to change that. Garrett McCarthy is an artist in the area and works in historic preservation. He's noticed areas such as Clayton and Sackets Harbor have invested to increase music venues, galleries, and events.
McCarthy notes tourists traveling to the thousands islands and Saint Lawrence area could be tapped, along with Fort Drum's population to go to events and art venues. Musician and painter Annette Miller is seeing some movement...especially compared to when she moved there 17 years ago and looked for progressive artists.
Miller is also seeing a little better music scene, with more places for singers and songwriters like herself to perform.
She'd like to see some of the downtown renovation that's going on include artists' lofts and more galleries to attract both creative people and potential customers and audience. Miller will be singing at an event produced by Garrett McCarthy to preserve the theater scene.
McCarthy contacted Miller, along with pianist Phillip Lai (Lie) and Jazz musician James Rich for "A Night of Jazz" to benefit the Lyric Theater of Watertown. He hopes to help them find a new space. The event is Saturday Night, 7:00 to 10:00 at the Asbury United Methodist Church.