VLSP fundraiser to feature attorneys’ artistic works

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Retired Livingston County Court Judge Jerry Alonzo created a series of wooden art pieces called “Justice Is…” in 2015, using more than 150 responses collected through the New York State Bar Association.

The full series was on display at the Telesca Center for Justice in April 2017 and can still be seen on the artist’s website at www.jerryalonzo.com (under the Projects heading). Better yet, one of the pieces is available for auction on Oct. 3 at the Volunteer Legal Services Project, Inc. Art of Lawyering.

The VLSP silent auction fundraiser will include many other lawyer-artists, including Second Assistant Public Defender Jill Paperno, who started oil painting classes online in 2015. Both of her pieces sold at the 2017 Art of Lawyering, and her farm scene (oil on canvas) is sure to be among this year’s popular pieces.

All proceeds raised from sponsorships and from the event go directly to help VLSP coordinate civil legal assistance for many underserved residents in Monroe and surrounding counties.

Jewelry designed and made by Mary Chao and Nicole Black will be available to bid on, as will a top-of-the-line paper shredder and an Ascend desk lamp.

If you are thinking, “I already have enough art,” then perhaps consider bidding on one of the many packages being offered. All details have not been revealed, but there will be a package involving food and wine at Fox Run Vineyards; a Buffalo Bills package including tickets, a parking pass and food; and an opportunity to see internationally famous poet Naomi Shihab Nye right here in Rochester on Oct. 4.

Not a Bills fan? How about some Sabres tickets or a tour of the Martin House, a Frank Lloyd Wright designed home in Buffalo?

There are also attorneys who are known for their culinary skills. Specifically, a dinner for eight prepared by Raul Martinez and Matt Belanger will likely get multiple bids. The high bidder gets to help design the menu for a priceless evening of dining enjoyment.

While you check out the various auction items, you’ll get to hear several attorney-musicians as Special Counsel plays their smooth jazz and pop.

Once again, Constellation Brands is supporting VLSP. Beverage contributions are also lined up from Climbing Bines, Olney Place, Three Brothers and D&R Depot. In addition, Black Button Distillery will set up a sampling table.

In the nosh category, there will be selections from India House, Shui Asian Fusion, FLX Kombucha Tastings, Sapori, Get Caked, Hedonist Chocolate, “The Gatherings” at Daisy Flour Mill and D&R Depot.

As in the past, there will be a cash-and-carry boutique for items $25 and under, including a few edibles like Dilly Beans, vintage jewelry, handmade soap and wine cork trivets (designed and crafted by Lou Ryen). Art of Lawyering beer glasses will also be for sale, either empty or filled.

Tickets are available online at www.vlsprochester.org/art-of-lawyering or at the door on Oct. 3 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Nora A. Jones is a Rochester-area freelance writer.