Our featured artist this month is Olney watercolor artist Sue Beardsley. Sue feels that art, like life, is a journey, each following a path which she calls the creative process of discovery, exploration and choice. Sue chose watercolor as a medium for painting because it offers her the best opportunity to experience the complete process.

Sue has recently expanded her work into watercolor montage and collage which she especially enjoys because it creates an opportunity for visual impact with the element of shadow added to the versatility of the medium. Sue chooses to apply the montage and collage to still life paintings because of the varied approach that she can use. The use of watercolor allows maximum fluidity but at the same time can be explicitly controlled. Sue achieves the most visual impact by choosing to use all the characteristics that the medium allows.

Meet Sue during Whitefish Gallery Night, Thursday, May 7, 2009 from 6-9 PM. Sue's work will be displayed during the opening and throughout the month of May.

This month's column will continue to look at some of the common pollutants in our homes that effect indoor air quality and our health.

Biological pollutants include bacteria, molds and mildews, pet dander, dust mites and pollen.

Controlling the humidity of your home will minimize growth of bacteria, mold and mildew. Remember to install and use vented fans in kitchens and bathrooms and vent the clothes dryer outdoors. Ventilate crawl spaces and attics to prevent moisture build-up. Clean humidifiers, dehumidifiers, water trays in air conditioners and other similar appliances frequently. If carpets get water damage clean and dry them thoroughly and quickly to prevent the growth of mold.

Keep your house clean. Dust mites, animal dander, pollens and other allergy causing agents can be greatly reduced by regular cleaning and central vacuum systems vented to the outdoors.

Radon gas comes from the breakdown of uranium in the soil or rock on which homes are sometimes built. It is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas that can potentially seep into buildings. High concentrations are a concern. You can self-test but the EPA recommends that you get a professional to test your home and office.

High levels of radon can easily be addressed but you need the technical expertise of a professional. If you are buying a new home or office it is a good idea to have it tested for radon before you purchase.

This ad in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle was obviously directed toward pet lovers only: "Free to good home, a loving Jack Russell terror dog."