We lost our beloved cat Oliver in August, after 15 years. We adopted him in 1991 from the Chicago Anti Cruelty Society. He was quite a feisty feline and he is dearly missed... I posted a Tribute to him on my blog.

Many other folks I know have also recently lost their 4 legged friends. Among them two very special dogs, Charlie of The Dogs Gallery and Lenny owned by my friend Stephi of Angel Food Bakery. I had the pleasure of knowing and painting portraits of both of these sweet pups. I like to think that Oliver is up there frolicking in the clouds with all the other animals I've lost and those lost by my friends.

I painted this larger than life fiberglass cat for Treehouse Animal Foundation's Cats On Parade Art Auction and Gala taking place this week at the Chicago Cultural Center. Treehouse Animal Foundation is a shelter dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of sick, injured or abused stray cats.

My portrait of "Oliver", a commission from last spring, was featured in Modern Dog Magazine's Fall Issue. This magazine is available on newstands in the U.S. and Canada.

Come out for the Fall Festival on October 28th at Dogone Fun located at 1717 S. State Street in Chicago. This is a South Loop Dog Day Care, Dog Boarding, Training, and Grooming facility. There will be animals from Chicago ACC availble for adoption, pet massage, a costume contest and many other great offerings. I will have prints, paintings and Pet portrait Gift Certificates available for purchase!

I have more than 20 paintings currently hanging at the Roscoe Village Starbucks through the end of October...stop in for a visual treat! This Shop is located at 2023 West Roscoe Street in Chicago. Call (773) 281-6272 for store hours. I will donate 10% of any sale from this show to Friends of Animal Care and Control.