A campaign to expand the membership and attract both artist and non-artist members to the North Shore Arts Alliance has been launched by the organization’s new Board of Directors, now under the leadership of President Marcia A. Merrins. The new board was elected in October: Christine Davis Mantai, vice president; Elsa Schwab, treasurer; Diane Andrasik, secretary; Marsha R. Finley, membership; Jason Dilworth; Carrie Tredo; and Cecelia Ivy Price.

The North Shore Arts Alliance is the founder and organizer of the twice-yearly Chautauqua-Lake Erie Art Trail, which has attracted thousands to the area since its inception in 2009. The art trail is a tour of the open studios of two dozen professional artists who work in a variety of media: painting, photography, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, fiber arts, wood, and mixed media.

The alliance was incorporated in 2008 with a mission to support Chautauqua County artists, both established and emerging, and to promote the county’s image, economic vitality and quality of life through art education and exhibits.

“Joining the North Shore Arts Alliance is a way to demonstrate your belief in arts and culture and to invest in an organization working toward a positive future for Chautauqua County,” Merrins said. Membership in the non-profit organization counts as a tax-deductible donation. Various membership op-tions are available: Member ($35 to $99), Associate ($100 to $199), Supporter ($200 to $349), and Benefactor ($350 to $500).

More than 500 invitations to join have been issued to individuals, but those not on the mailing list are encouraged to contact the alliance directly either by email at director@northshoreartsalliance.com or by sending a check or inquiry to North Shore Arts Alliance, P.O. Box 233, Fredonia, NY, 14063.

Merrins, a Fredonia resident, has served two terms on the national Board of Directors of the League of Women Voters of the United States. She has also been president of the League of Women Voters of New York State for four years and has led the local League in Chautauqua County for many years. Through these organizations she has been in the forefront advocating for the preservation of hard-won women’s rights, championing women’s equality, and educating voters on issues.

More recently, she has become recognized as a local artist and, with her entrepreneurial interest, has moved this into a small business, Kniti Griti Works.

She currently chairs the Fredonia Cable Advisory Board and sits on the Chautauqua County Board of Health where she has served as chair. Just for fun, she has played the role of Elf Holly on local access channel. This will be her 25th year.

She is a Brooklyn-bred New Yorker who has lived in Chautauqua County since 1974.

She graduated from Hunter College in NYC with a dual degree in biology and elementary education.