Fractures well cured make us more strong.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson Just released by The Head & Hand Press, the first Rust Belt Rising Almanac highlights the indomitable spunk and spirit of our region. The new anthology includes literature, photography, and art depicting loss, change, and creativity in urban communities scorched by economic recession. Detroit, Cleveland, and Philadelphia are among several Rust Belt cities represented. Two of my mixed-media pieces (“Remember” and “Cycles of the Muse”) are featured in full color near the front of the book. This is the first time my artwork has been selected for illustration — and I have to admit it’s pretty exciting. Since my…