Art festival highlights locals

The local chapter of Aglow International, a worldwide prayer group, held an arts festival at the Northside Mall on Saturday.

Young and old alike viewed displays of local artists, including paintings, photography, sketches and crafts.

Live music from local guitarists and singers highlighted the afternoon, and spirits stayed high despite the increasing temperatures.

At one end of the mall, a quilt display was set, with a station set for children to create their own block for a quilt.

The quilt, including the crayon drawings of youngsters, will be donated to the Maryville Women and Children's center.

Aglow's Northwest Missouri area advisor, Katey Fletchall, Conception Junction, said the group continually looks for ways to give to the local community.

"We really like to do outreach projects," Fletchall said. "Our goal is to help as many people as we can."

The non-denominational group meets often and holds mutliple charity events throughout the year, including a booth at the county fair and frequent donations to various local centers.

Though this is the first year the group has held an art/music festival, Fletchall and others were happy with the outcome.

"We thought it would be a good idea to do the art show and music festival," Fletchall said. "There are so many good local artists that want to be part of a good cause."

The group has been a part of Nodaway County for more than 20 years, and plans to continue to help others through fun, family-oriented events.

"The adults enjoyed the paintings here," Fletchall said. "And the kids really loved the quilting project. It is a fun day."