LaShawn Cunningham named to NAC board

LaShawn Cunningham has been voted a member of the  Norwich Arts Center's Board of Directors.

Cunningham, a 2003 Norwich Free Academy alumna, is a licensed foster parent through Waterford Country School and works at the Oak Hill Connecticut Institute for The Blind. She is the mother of three children.

Cunningham's history of  community service began as a youth leader at Tabernacle of Deliverance and Praise. That's when her dance company, Unique Praise Anointed Worship, was also born.

Cunningham is also founder and director of Blooming into Greatness,a nonprofit youth organization. She won the 2016 Norwich NAACP Robertsine Duncan Youth Council President Award and the 100 Women of Color 2021 award.

Local photographer publishes second book

Globe Pequot Press has announced publication of a second photography book by Lyme author Caryn B. Davis.

Titled "Connecticut Waters: Celebrating our Shoreline and Waterways," the book "is a tribute to Connecticut's maritime roots, both past and present," according to a release. "The book takes readers on a nautical journey exploring the many ways Nutmeggers use our lakes, rivers, sounds and shores for industry, education, and recreation."

The book includes images of boat builders, sailing vessels, lobster shacks, historic ferries, lighthouses and more. Davis' first book was titled "A Connecticut Christmas: Celebrating the Holiday in Classic New England Style."

Davis, who grew up in New London, specializes in photography involving architecture, gardens, boats and travel. She has visited more than 50 counries, and her articles and images have been seen in more than 60 publications worldwide.

Her new hardcover coffee table book sells for $27.95 and is available online and around the region.

Friends & Neighbors is a regular feature. To contribute, email times@theday.com.