Inspired by Scotland's hopes for independence and hot on the heels of Crime'a 95% preference for accession to Russia, 89% of the citizens of Venice voted for their own sovereign state in a ‘referendum’ on independence from Italy. As The Daily Mail reports, the proposed ‘Repubblica Veneta’ includes the five million inhabitants of the Veneto region and has been largely driven by the wealthy 'who are tired of supporting the poor and crime-ridden south' (Venice pays EUR71bn in taxes and receives only EUR21bn in services and investment). The ballot appointed a committee of ten who immediately declared independence from Italy. Venice may now start withholding taxes from Rome. Wonder why the US, Europe, and Japan have not announced the referendum "illegal" and announced sanctions yet?

Via The Daily Mail,

VenetiansFriday, December 9, 2016

The Art Books of Matisse presentation with Andrew Eschelbacher from the Portland Museum of Art

Grades 2 to 5 were lucky this afternoon to receive the visit of Andrew Eschelbacher, curator at the Portland Museum of Art. Andrew presented Matisse briefly and focused on its art books which are put on display at the current exhibition of the museum, The Art Books of Matisse.

The students had lots of interesting questions and comments. What a wonderful presentation! Merci beaucoup Andrew!