CHERRY VALLEY- One hundred disposable cameras have already been purchased and will be handed out this weekend for residents to record 'One Day in the Life of Cherry Valley.'

From the creation of the new arts council in Cherry Valley, Artworks, community members can take pictures which will be developed and exhibited at the old school in Cherry Valley, said Patti Erway, acting secretary/treasurer for Artworks.

Artworks member, Jane Sapinsky, who is a professional photographer, created the idea of the photo day. She has been a part-time resident in Cherry Valley for 18 years and full-time resident for three and a half years.

"I love the area," she said recently. Sapinsky believes this project is a way for people to show appreciation for the area.

"It should be a lot of fun," Erway said.

The exhibit is slated to be on display sometime during the weekend of August 21.

Interested participants can pick up a 27 exposure camera at The Cherry Branch art gallery on the corner of Main and Montgomery Sts. on Friday, August 6 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

"They don't have to be artists or photographers," Bill Isaac, current Artworks president, said.

He said people can "photograph anything of interest and beauty in their lives. It's a celebration of Cherry Valley."

"I think we'll have a good turnout," said Erway.

The cameras will be collected on Sunday, August 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Cherry Branch.

At least one photograph will be taken from each person's submission.

Guest judges will be choosing three winners with the best photos. Cash prizes will be awarded as well as the photo itself, enlarged, matted and framed, said Erway.

The arts council has considered compiling all or some of the photographs to publish in a calendar or a book, Isaac said.

Sapinsky roughly estimated that the project may cost $1,000 to $1,200. Thus far, they have raised some of that amount, she said.

Because of the uncertainty of film processing costs, Isaac said they are still searching for donations.

Although the group has grown considerably since it began, they continue to look for more membership.

Cherry Valley Artworks was formed in January and already has 30 serious members, said Isaac recently.

The groups mission is to "encourage and promote the work of local artists and stimulate public interest in the arts and culture of the Cherry Valley area," he said.

Other Artworks events may be planned for the future such as classes and workshops, he added.

Annual membership fees are $10 for students and $20 for community individuals. Although some meeting times have varied, they tend to meet on Sunday afternoons.

Anyone interested in applying for membership, receiving meeting dates or donating money towards the photo project can contact Patti Erway at 607-264-3502 or more preferably at pattierway@hotmail.com.