The Friends of the Astor Library will hold a fundraiser to benefit library programs. Raffle tickets are $5 each or 6 for $25 and are available at the Astor County Library for the chance to win “A Dry Place” fine art reproduction by celebrated artist Barry Barnett, on canvas with artist remark on the back. The drawing will be held on December 4th during the holiday activities.

Barry Barnett is a Florida native. His youth was spent fishing the salt-water coastal flats to the black water banks of the Saint Johns River. The cry of the osprey echoes in his creative mind, while images of gold and turquoise swim just beneath the silent surface of his canvas. Mr. Barnett's works in fine art are part of private, commercial, government and military collections throughout the United States. These works have found their place in Russia, England, Canada, and more than 25 other countries. His work with humanitarian and environmental good cause issues has established him as an artist of international note.

No matter where he goes or subject captured the artist's signature is etched deep in his first love … the sea. His works have been a part of the United States Senate Collection in Washington, D.C. and the Florida House of Representatives in Tallahassee. Mr. Barnett's contributions toward humanitarian and environmental concerns have been recognized by Florida State, national and international leaders on the highest levels.

For information on the raffle and the holiday activities please contact Nancy Hunt-McDonald at 352-759-2161.