Dear Pearl,
I must admit the “paperwork” part of setting up a nonprofit is less fun than the creative stuff I am eager to jump into. But first things first. I try to look to your example for patience, and my fondness for learning. I know it is bringing me closer to my goal of establishing an actual place to do all the fun things. When I need a break, I take a short break. When I need help, I seek it out. I am driven to do this, and sometimes it’s overwhelming, but in a good way. And I am so thankful for the community around me who has showered me with support and encouraged me to move forward with this dream.
So, first things first. My paperwork has been filed. My calendar is filling with upcoming events. And I’m seeking the courage to really step outside my comfort zone and begin to truly fundraise for the cause of opening an actual space. You may, or may not, know that I would love to purchase a train caboose to serve as our creative arts center. Being creative, I am also seeking shipping containers that could be made to look like a train caboose. Simultaneously, I am seeking a space to park my caboose, so to speak.
I know what it’s going to take to bring this ghost of a vision to life, and I am committed to our community. I know what’s coming next, and I know you will support me in my awkward, humble, and sincere efforts to raise money for our nonprofit, and use those funds to create a one-of-a-kind space where history and art come to life.
Your niece,
Aimee

Dear Pearl,
I need to find you a home, don’t I? I am searching for trains, trailers, vacant spaces and sponsors, and of course grants to bring this dream to life. I know it sounds crazy, Pearl, but the dream is to have a SPACE for artists to get in touch with their family history and be creative. I love taking you out to old town, but sometimes it’s too hot, and sometimes it’s too cold, and well, I would love to show you off and represent our mission every day of the week, and I know it’s possible!
Wish me luck! I need it!
Aimee

Dear Pearl,
You would be so proud of me, auntie! The Murrieta Public Library and Pearl Center for Creative Arts and the Murrieta Arts Council (MAC) are joining together to host a Teen Art Contest and award reception on July 8, 2022. The theme combines reading a book about a journey across the ocean with re-creating a book cover on 8 x 10 canvas boards with acrylic paints, provided free of charge by the library, and with support from Pearl and MAC.

Staying true to the mission, we are working together to provide 100 art kits to be given out at the library during special dates and times, and those who return their completed paintings will enter the contest. I will be hosting an art exhibit! Dreams are coming true, and by that I mean being able to lift up other artists in the community and give them a space to be artsy! Paintings will be on display at a public reception in the library garden and a panel of judges from our community will award 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Light refreshments and snacks will be served for our artists, family, and community members celebrating our Teen Art Contest.
I know this is just the beginning, Pearl. I know we are going places together. And by that I definitely mean going back to the library to host more events. You’d be so proud. At least I hope you would.
Your loving niece,
Aimee