NewsSection

Friday, November 30, 2007

Gordy Annual Print Show and Sale

Twenty area artists will exhibit new prints at Gordy Fine Art & Framing in downtown Muncie. Professional and student printmakers from Ball State University will be joined by artists from Anderson University, along with professional and amateur artists from the community. The print show will include the traditional woodcuts, intaglio prints, lithographs and serigraphs, along with photos and giclees. Selections will include many sizes, subjects and price ranges, with all works available for purchase.

The print show is the largest exhibit of the year at Gordy's, with works hung "salon style" - on top of each other rather than a single string of works hung at the same level. Prints may be removed from the exhibit at the time of purchase. An opening night reception will be held on First Thursday, December 6th from 5 to 8 pm. Refreshments will be served and several artists will be on hand to talk about their work.

The Annual Print Show will continue through January and residents are encouraged to bring visitors during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 to 5:30, Saturday, 9 to 3, or by appointment. Gordy Fine Art & Framing Co. is located at 224 East Main Street, next door to Civic Theatre.

For more information call 284-8422 or visit www.gordyframing.com.

Thursday, November 29, 2007

December at The Artist Within

In December, The Artist Within will feature local print- and bookmaker, Emily Leiserson, in a show entitled Social Dimensions: Identity, Location, and Narrative. There will be an opening reception from 5-8 pm on Thursday, December 6, 2007. The public is invited.

Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Emily Leiserson completed a BA in Studio Art at Carleton College, in Minnesota. She will receive an MA in Printmaking from Ball State University, in the summer of 2008. Emily has exhibited work in several local shows over the course of 2007, at local arts venues including Cornerstone Center for the Arts, Minnetrista Cultural Center, ArtWorks, and Fort Wayne’s ArtLink. Her work received recognition and awards from the juried exhibitions at both Cornerstone Center for the Arts and ArtLink.

Social Dimensions: Identity, Location, and Narrative: The prints and books in this show can be grouped into three vectors: 1.) Self-portrait, representing identity or self-image; 2.) Landscape, representing relative and specific location, and 3.) Cultural narrative – including mythology, religion, and folk and fairy tales – representing society and culture. Each of the pieces in this show is based essentially on drawing, rather than computer images or photography. It is made up primarily of woodcut prints and books.

Handmade gifts from Beyond I Can will be on display and for sale during the First Thursday Holiday festivities.

Jewelry classes with Heidi J. Hale take a break in December; new classes start in 2008. Marti Icenogle will teach "Basic Art Clay Silver" and "Lacy Ball Earrings".

Kim Anderson offers throwing lessons throughout December…already know how?...rent throwing time. Call to set up an appointment or for more information.

Story time for pre-schoolers continues. Call to set up dates, times, and titles…we only need eight children to set up a "story time".

Pottery pieces need to be painted by Saturday December 15th to be ready for Christmas…plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Don't forget to pick up your pottery or complete those pieces in the "to be continued" room…we have several pieces that seemed to have taken up residence here…thanks!

Visit our website for a complete calendar of events: www.theartistwithininc.com

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Four Perfect Pebbles: A Holocaust Story + Anne Frank Exhibit at Minnetrista

Marion Blumenthal Lazan, a Holocaust survivor and author of Four Perfect Pebbles, will share her story Dec. 4 at Pruis Hall and Dec. 12 at Parker City Christ Fellowship. Both programs are free and open to the public. The events will begin at 7 p.m. with a book signing following each program.

Marion Blumenthal Lazan was in two of the same concentration camps as Anne Frank. Her family endured six and a half years of fear and persecution in some of Europe's most notorious refugee, transit and concentration camps. Her message is one of respect, tolerance, perseverance and hope.

There will be an opportunity to meet Marion Blumenthal Lazan at a Meet the Author event held at Minnetrista. Meet the Author will take place Tuesday, Dec 4 from 4:30-6 p.m. Light refreshments will be served and her book, Four Perfect Pebbles, will be available to purchase.

Cost: Members, $15; Non-members, $20. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, please call (765) 213-3549.

Anne Frank: A History for Today

Now - January 20, 2008

Minnetrista will host Anne Frank: A History for Today October 27 through January 20. This historical, yet intimate exhibit depicts Anne Frank's life story using family photos and passages from her diary. Her biographical story is enhanced by testimony and powerful imagery from Holocaust survivors.

Anne Frank: A History of Today illustrates the continuing relevance of Anne Frank's story and the important lessons it can teach us today. The exhibit is a reminder that the discrimination and racism that brought her life to an end did not disappear when World War II concluded. Learning about her life story challenges the viewer to reflect upon the value of tolerance, mutual respect, and the significance of human rights.

Minnetrista hours are: Mon. - Sat., 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Admission is FREE to members. General Admission is $4 child/student; $6 senior; $7 adult.

For more information on this exhibit or Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net.

Anne Frank: A History for Today was developed by the Anne Frank House and is sponsored in North America by the Anne Frank Center USA.


Exhibit Explores Religious Diversity

Now - January 20, 2008

To coincide with the exhibit, Anne Frank: A History for Today, Minnetrista will also host B'ruchim Habaim: Midwestern Sanctuary, October 27 - January 20. The exhibit, a photographic essay, is a Minnetrista original and depicts the Jewish temples of East Central Indiana. Four temples and their congregations are represented. They include: Temple Beth El in Muncie; Temple B'nai Israel in Kokomo; Beth Boruk Temple in Richmond and Sinai Temple in Marion.

Elizabeth Leeor, exhibit creator/photographer, is a former resident of Muncie and converted to Judaism in 1990. She wanted to use her talents as an artist to increase Indiana's awareness of its own religious diversity. According to Leeor, all four of the temples represented in the exhibit have been around for more than 100 years.

"For me, the important message in these pictures goes beyond the discovery that rabbis can be female, married, and pregnant," says Leeor. "It goes past questions of sexual preference, degrees of religious observance, and the politics of personal choice. Religious diversity exists in America, while social and political acknowledgement of this fact has yet to be fully realized....these images are about joy, survival, commitment and the power of art to communicate what social-political religious debate often fails to acknowledge."


Bruchim Habaim: Midwestern Sanctuary will be on display in the Indiana Room. As always, member admission is free. Admission for non-members is $4 child/student; $6 senior; $7 adult. Exhibit hours are Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

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Located along historic White River, Minnetrista includes 40 acres of beautiful gardens and grounds, a modern museum facility, an historic home, Nature Area, numerous sculptures, and a portion of the Cardinal Greenway. Minnetrista serves East Central Indiana with dynamic community activities and exhibits that honor and reflect its natural and cultural heritage. For more information about Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net.

Fall Celebration at Cornerstone

Cornerstone Center for the Arts is holding its Fall Celebration on Sunday, December 2nd from 2:00-5:00pm.

The Celebration is free to the entire community, and will include games; crafts; toys; refreshments; hip hop, ballet, and tap dance performances; theatre performance; free class sessions including Hip Hop Aerobics, Kindermusik (ages 1-5), Dance & Fitness, Belly Dance, and more; art demonstrations on the clay wheel and painting easels; an art gallery of student and instructor works including ceramics, painting, and jewelry; voice and piano recitals; Spring class registration; special appearance by Santa at Candy Cane Lane on the 2nd floor, and more!

Cornerstone's fall classes will perform on stage and will be featured throughout the displays while several classes will be open to the public for a free trial. Come and see what Cornerstone has to offer!

* What: FREE Cornerstone Celebration
* When: Sunday, December 2, 2-5pm
* Where: Cornerstone Center for the Arts, 520 E. Main St. Muncie, IN 47305
* Who: Open to the public.

For more information about the Celebration, call Robby Tompkins, Director of Education, at 765.281.9503.

Monday, November 26, 2007

Legislative Road Show Coming to Horizon

Property Tax Reform will be the HOT topic of the 2008 Indiana General Assembly. Join us for an educational opportunity to hear about the various proposals that our legislators will likely be debating.

The Indiana Chamber of Commerce will bring their Legislative Road Show to Muncie-Delaware County on Tuesday, December 11, 2007.

The event will be held at the Horizon Convention Center. Breakfast will be served at 8:00 a.m. with the program to follow.

Cost is $15.00 per person for Chamber Members, $25.00 per person for non-members. To make a reservation, call Brenda Brumfield at 751-9128 or email bbrumfield@muncie.com.

Reservation deadline is December 7, 2007!

This program is made possible by the generous support of:
Indiana Michigan Power

Sunday, November 25, 2007

Polar Express Returns to Wysor Street Depot

The Muncie Sanitary District and Kohl's are proud to present a magical evening at the Historic Wysor Street Depot with Polar Express.

Santa, Mrs. Claus, and a few reindeer will make their way to the Historic Wysor Street Depot November 30th and December 1st from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Climb on to Santa’s lap and share your holiday wishes with him while Jack’s Camera shop captures the moment with a picture. Listen to our special guest readers as they read the story of the Polar Express. Santa’s elves will make sure you take home a silver bell to remind you of your journey – and this time we’ll make sure yours doesn’t get lost! Sip hot chocolate as you listen to carolers share the songs of the season. New this year, you can visit Ron Orebaugh's Grand Grilling to Go pulled pork sandwiches which will be set-up in the parking lot of the Depot. Pictures and food available at posted prices.

Luminaries, lights and live reindeer will decorate the grounds of the Depot as train whistles sound in the distance. Polar Express is a FREE event and takes place in conjunction with Minnetrista’s Luminaria event on Friday, November 30th and Saturday, December 1st, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

MITS will provide free trolleys both nights between Polar Express, Minnetrista's Luminaria, and Ball State University to make sure you don’t miss any of the attractions.

For additional information, contact Angel Silvers, Cardinal Greenway, at (765) 287-0399 or by email at info@cardinalgreenways.org.

Children's Nutcracker and More at Muncie Ballet Studio

Muncie Ballet Studio presents The Children's Nutcracker Saturday, Dec. 15, 7:00pm, Sunday, Dec. 16, 4:00pm

Length: 1 hour 30 minutes

Tickets are now available at Bill McCoy Ford
2001 E McGalliard Rd
Muncie, IN 47303
(765) 289-0431

A holiday classic and wonderful family holiday tradition. A perfect length
for our younger audience. Tickets $8 adults, $5 children/seniors
765-282-1480 www.MuncieBallet.org

Nutcracker Teas: (Activity Event) Saturday, Dec. 8, 10:00am & 2:00 pm,
Sunday, Dec. 9, 2:00pm
Length 1 hour 30 minutes

Sparkle, glitter and a sprinkle of Sugarplum Fairy dust make the Nutcracker
Tea a grand event. Come dressed fancy and frilly, dance with the Sugarplum
Fairy and meet the Nutcracker Prince. Finally, create a keepsake to remember this special day. Tickets $10. 765-282-1480
www.MuncieBallet.org


The Rat King's Quest: (Activity Event)
Saturday, Dec. 8, 10:00am & 2:00 pm,
Sunday, Dec. 9, 2:00pm
Length 1 hour 30 minutes

Think you know the whole story of The Nutcracker? Just wait till you hear
the Rat Kings version. It will take some scavenging, crafting and a sense of adventure to figure out what the Rat King has planned for you. Tickets
$5. 765-282-1480 www.MuncieBallet.org

Minnetrista Hosts Annual Enchanted Luminaria Walk

MUNCIE, IN - Minnetrista's annual Enchanted Luminaria Walk will take place November 30 & December 1, from 6 - 9 p.m. Admission is free, so bring the whole family.

Visitors will enjoy luminaries, holiday decorations and music, carriage rides, and free exhibits. There will also be great holiday shopping opportunities at the Minnetrista shops and The LuminArtist Market. Enjoy the best traditional art in Indiana including custom-made jewelry, baked goods, hand-made cards, wood carvings and more.

Other activities include pictures with a Gingerbread man, a Gingerbread house exhibit, Yorktown United Methodist Church Bell Choir, Crown City Squares Square Dancing, puppet shows, creating animal friendly ornaments and much more!

Travel back in time at the Historic Wysor Street Depot when Santa comes to visit! Listen to guest readers as they share the Polar Express.

MITS will be providing free trolleys between Polar Express, Minnetrista, and Ball State University.

For more information about Luminaria, call (765) 282-4848 or visit www.minnetrista.net. For more information regarding Polar Express, call (765) 287-0399 or visit www.cardinalgreenways.org

Located along historic White River, Minnetrista includes 40 acres of beautiful gardens and grounds, a modern museum facility, an historic home, Nature Area, numerous sculptures, and a portion of the White River Greenway. Minnetrista serves East Central Indiana with dynamic community activities and exhibits that honor and reflect its natural and cultural heritage. For more information about Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Downtown Business Council Announcements

Downtown Business Council Announcements: Don't forget to attend the next Downtown Business Council meeting and mixer on the last Wednesday of the month, November 28th, at 3pm.

Please note, this month's meeting will be held in a special location, at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. A holiday "Meet the Members Mixer" will follow immediately after the meeting, from 4:30 - 6:30 pm, at Cornerstone. Santa will be there at Cornerstone's Candy Cane!

This is an excellent opportunity to network with your downtown peers, keep informed of downtown happenings, and learn all about the Downtown Business Council and our continued efforts to market your business and our downtown neighborhood. Members will be on hand to answer any questions about the Downtown Business Council, and membership applications will be available for anyone who wants to join.

Please spread the word, or pass this email along to any Downtown business who might be interested in the Downtown Business Council.

HOLIDAY WINDOW DRESSING CONTEST

The Muncie Downtown Business Council (MDBC) is sponsoring a contest to select downtown storefronts that best demonstrate the Holiday spirit by way of decorations. To that end, three categories are announced:

1) Most traditionally appointed storefront (i.e. a storefront that is grounded in traditional themes using traditional decorations)

2) Most artistic and creative designed storefront (i.e. a storefront that stretches the boundary of traditional decorations and that expresses businesses offerings in a very creative and artistic way)

3) Most well-lit and/or media focused storefront (i.e. a storefront designed with lights or other mediaa"such as electronicsa"and that conforms to local electrical codes!)

Judging will occur the evening of Thursday, December 6th, which is the First Thursday event for December. Judges for the event will be the general public who attend the eveningas event downtown. A card will be developed that lists all storefronts up for judging and passed out to each participating business prior to the evening of December 6th (in order to complete the printing of voting card please have your storefront window decorated by Friday, November 30th). Cards will then be left at each participating business and gathered by the MDBC the begining of the following week.

We hope that you will participate. I have noticed that a number of storefronts have already been decorated and they look just wonderful.

The three prizes will be bestowed to the winners within the week after the event with the aim of having the Muncie StarPress cover the event before, during and upon notification of the winners.

Again, the MDBC hopes that you will participate. Questions? Please don't hesitate to contact Andrew Dale, President of the Muncie Downtown Business Council, at 284-4987.


DOWNTOWN MUNCIE - MUNCIE MALL PROMO UPDATE

URGENT! Any Downtown business owners interested in participating in the Muncie Mall promotion for the holiday season should contact Bob Hartley at The Artist Within (email theartistwithininc@yahoo.com) or Jamaal Bell at Downtown Development (email jamaal.bell@gmail.com).

We are under a tight deadline and must hear from you right away if you want to take part in this great promotional opportunity. Space is limited and will be available on a first come, first served basis.

The space we have to work with is about 20' wide by 14' high, and will be on the large wall adjacent to Macy's at the Macy's/Finish Line entrance. There will be a large header panel urging mall visitors to "Discover Downtown." Beneath the larger panel will be 10 smaller panels, each one representing a Downtown business or group. See the graphic below for a general idea of how the display will look.

The display will run beginning in November through January 20, 2008. This covers holiday shopping and returns, so our Downtown promotion will receive the maximum exposure.

The cost to sponsor a panel for your business is $210, and will cover the cost of the space and print production. The list below is what Jamaal needs from you to create your individual 22"x36" panel:

* The 5 best photos of your business doing business
* Their largest digital file of your logo (file type doesn't matter) If logos were designed professionally a copy the CD is needed
* Short paragraph marketing the experience and service of your business no more than 60 words.
* Contact info (Name of business, address, phone number, hours of operation and web address).

Please spread the word to any Downtown merchant you think may be interested. Stay tuned to munciedowntown.com, and sign up for the mailing list to stay informed.


MONTHLY COUPON SHEET

MuncieDowntown.com is launching a new "Downtown Deals" monthly coupon sheet in December, to be posted on the website and emailed to its mailing list subscribers. Printed copies of "Downtown Deals" will also be made available at various locations downtown. CLICK HERE TO VIEW A SAMPLE.

Proceeds from the ad sales will be shared with the Muncie Downtown Business Council, to help provide funds for the continued improvement and marketing of our downtown district.

Ads are business card size and cost $50 per month. Call Jomo Williams at 765-282-9477 or email jwilliams@citynfocus.com to reserve your space today. Ask about package discounts!

Please let us know if you'd like to receive printed copies to distribute at your business, or request copies anytime by email to info@munciedowntown.com.

Stay tuned to munciedowntown.com, and sign up for the mailing list to stay informed.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Annual Turkey Trot at Cardinal Greenway

Move your feet so others can eat! Cardinal Home Medical and Kohl's are proud to sponsor the annual Turkey Trot non-competitive run and walk on the Cardinal Greenway Thanksgiving morning, Thursday Nov. 22. Registration opens 7:30a.m., Walk/Run begins 8:00 a.m. on the Cardinal Greenway beginning at the Wysor Street Depot, 700 E. Wysor, Muncie

The event offers a variety of distances, refreshments, and new this year - a chance to win one of two gift bags filled with various items graciously donated by local community businesses. Turkey Trot provides a fun, family-friendly event to show off the Greenways to visiting family
and friends; not to mention a great way to build up an appetite - or burn a few extra calories before the big meal!

Pre-registration: $5.00/person
$10.00/family (family = living in same household)
pre-registrations must be received by 4:00 p.m. November 21, 2007.

Day of event:
$7.00/person
$12.00/family (family = living in same household)

One non-perishable food item or recycled cell phone per participant is also required as part of the registration fee. All collected items will be donated to The Muncie Mission.

Registration forms are available at the Wysor Street Depot, Muncie Visitor's Bureau, YMCA, Kirk's Bike Shop, and on-line at www.cardinalgreenways.org Turkey Trot is hosted by Cardinal Greenway and sponsored by Cardinal Home Medical of New Castle and Kohl's.

For more information, please contact Cardinal Greenway at 765-287-0399.

Cardinal Greenway, Inc.
700 E. Wysor St.
Muncie, IN 47305
Contact: Angel Silvers
Phone: 765-287-0399
Email: angel@cardinalgreenways.org

Weekly Downtown E-News 11/15/07

NOVEMBER EVENTS: 15th - Whitinger & Company and Whitinger Financial Advisers invite the community to its open house, celebrating its new building and renewed commitment to our community. Thursday, November 15, 2007 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. White River Blvd. at Ontario Place.

16th - Join Vera Mae's Bistro for the 5th Annual Wine Dinner and Art Auction on Friday, November 16. Art preview will be at 6pm, with wine dinner at 7pm. Proceeds of the art auction to benefit Gallery 308 and ARF. Cost of the wine dinner if $75 per person (prepaid) and seating is limited to 75 guests. Past wine dinners have sold out quickly, so reserve your seat at 747-4941. Please, no emailed reservations.

17th - Coffee 101 - A Better Cup at Home, from 2-4pm at Blue Bottle. Dave Darga of Harvest Cafe and Tom Steiner of Blue Bottle will show you some of the tips and tricks they use to make great coffee at home. Class is limited to 15 people. Sign up at the counter or send us an e-mail. Lots of good coffee and food. And it is free. Sponsored in part by Cassella's Kitchen and The Artist Within.

17th -Muncie Children's Museum 30th Birthday party ~~featuring Survivor superstar: Rupert Boneham, 1:30pm, adm. to hear Rupert is $1 which will go to his Kids foundation. Museum adm. free 10-5pm. 11:30 free pizza and at 3:00pm free cake and ice cream.

17th - Candy Cane Lane at Cornerstone Center for the Arts from 1-3:30pm. Bring the family for this FREE event to start off the holiday season! Various activities on the 2nd floor, crafts for the children to make, entertainment in the theatre room, and children can walk through Candy Cane Lane to get their picture taken with Santa and receive a gift. For more information please contact Brett Ellison @ 765-281-9503, ext. 53.

17th - Muncie Civic Theatre will hold open auditions on Saturday, November 17 at 1:00pm in the main auditorium at 216 E. Main St. in downtown Muncie. Shows being cast from this audition include GODSPELL, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST, CHRISTMAS WITH PDQ BACH and THE FOLK SONG CABARET. For more information call 765-288-PLAY x4.

16-17th - The Main Street Studio Theatre will present a return engagement of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW at 10:00pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at the Box Office. THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW is intended for mature audiences and contains strong adult language and situations. No one under 17 will be admitted.

17th - The Artist Within turns three this month! Stop by Saturday, November 17th for cake and punch and to help us celebrate...thank you for your support the past three years!

17th - Farmers Market Demonstration with Gingerbread at Minnetrista, Saturday, November 17, 9 a.m.-9:45 p.m. There is no fee or registration required for this program. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

22nd - Annual Turkey Trot on the Cardinal Greenway. For more info, please contact Angel Silvers at 765-287-0399.

23-24th Muncie Children's Museum--Santa visits free to members, otherwise $6 adm. Friday & Sat. 11-2pm, Sunday 2-4pm.

23-25th - Muncie Civic Theatre will continue its Family Theatre Workshop Series with the classic family musical ANNIE JR. The play will perform on November 23, 24, 30, December 1, 13, 14, & 22 at 7:30pm as well as on Sundays, November 25, December 9 & 23 at 2:00pm. Call 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

28th - Downtown Business Council will meet at 3pm. Following the meeting will be a "Meet the Members" mixer, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Santa will be there at Cornerstone's Candy Cane! Members will be on hand to answer any questions about the Downtown Business Council, and membership applications will be available for anyone who wants to join. Visit www.munciedowntown.com/DBC for more info.

30th - Muncie Civic Theatre will continue its Family Theatre Workshop Series with the classic family musical ANNIE JR. The play will perform on November 23, 24, 30, December 1, 13, 14, & 22 at 7:30pm as well as on Sundays, November 25, December 9 & 23 at 2:00pm. Call 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

30th & Dec. 1 - 2nd Annual Polar Express at the Historic Wysor Street Depot For more info, please contact Angel Silvers at 765-287-0399.

30th & Dec. 1 - Luminaria Walk 6-9pm at Minnetrista.

NOVEMBER ONGOING:

Through November - The Artist Within will feature artwork by members of "Creative Artists", a local organization that has a membership with a wide range of interests and mediums. These artists work in drawing, mixed media, oils, pastels, watercolor, sculpture and photography. The exhibit and sale will run November 1-30, 2007. An artists reception will be held from 5-8 pm, Thursday, November 1, 2007.

Through November - Gallery 308 will exhibit ceramics by the Ball State students of Ted Neal. An opening is scheduled for 5 p.m. on November 1 at the gallery.

Through November - Gordy Fine Art and Framing will exhibit "Odd Tales" by David Hannon, assistant professor of painting at Ball State University. An opening reception for the award-winning artist will be held during First Thursday on November 1, 2007, from 5 to 8 PM. Refreshments will be served and the public is invited to attend.

Through December - Artworks Gallery will exhibit "The Painters of Life and Light" from November 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007. An opening reception will be held during First Thursday Downtown, November 1, 2007 from 5:30 pm to 8:30pm, with light refreshments.

Through December 6th- Fall classes at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Call Cornerstone at 765.281.9503 to be added to the mailing list or pick up a brochure in the building. You can also register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through January 12 - Minnetrista will exhibit "White River Turtles: Paintings from Brian Gordy". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will host Anne Frank: A History for Today. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will exhibit "Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will exhibit "B'ruchim Habaim: Midwestern Sanctuary". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

DECEMBER EVENTS :

1st - 2nd Annual Polar Express at the Historic Wysor Street Depot For more info, please contact Angel Silvers at 765-287-0399.

1st - Luminaria Walk 6-9pm at Minnetrista.

1st - Muncie Civic Theatre will continue its Family Theatre Workshop Series with the classic family musical ANNIE JR. The play will perform on November 23, 24, 30, December 1, 13, 14, & 22 at 7:30pm as well as on Sundays, November 25, December 9 & 23 at 2:00pm. Call 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

2nd - Fall Celebration at Cornerstone Center for the Arts, from 2-5pm. The Celebration is free to the entire community, and will include games; crafts; toys; refreshments and more, including a special appearance by Santa at Candy Cane Lane on the 2nd floor.

4th - Minnetrista: meet the author, Marion Blumenthal Lazan, co-author of Four Perfect Pebbles 4:30-6pm

7th-8th - Muncie Civic Theatre presents A CHRISTMAS STORY at 7:30pm. The performances will be on the main stage at Muncie Civic Theatre. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

8th - Family Gingerbread Workshop at Minnetrista, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Gingerbread walls, icing cement, gumdrop chimneys...the whole family will have great fun building a tasty house together! Everyone can be a part of this sweet and sticky program. Registration Deadline: Saturday, December 1.

8th - Minnetrista Winter Market; honey, baked goods, meats, cheeses, fall vegetables, assorted other food items & greenery; 9am-noon

8-9th - Muncie Ballet Studio will host a series of Nutcracker Teas, on Saturday, Dec. 8, 10:00am & 2:00 pm, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2:00pm. Length 1 hour 30 minutes Come dressed fancy and frilly, dance with the Sugarplum Fairy and meet the Nutcracker Prince. Finally, create a keepsake to remember this special day. Call 765-282-1480 or visit www.MuncieBallet.org

8-9th - Muncie Ballet Studio presents The Rat King's Quest on Saturday, Dec. 8, 10:00am & 2:00 pm, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2:00pm Length 1 hour 30 minutes Think you know the whole story of The Nutcracker? Just wait till you hear the Rat Kings version. It will take some scavenging, crafting and a sense of adventure to figure out what the Rat King has planned for you. Call 765-282-1480 or visit www.MuncieBallet.org

9th - Muncie Civic Theatre will continue its Family Theatre Workshop Series with the classic family musical ANNIE JR. The play will perform on November 23, 24, 30, December 1, 13, 14, & 22 at 7:30pm as well as on Sundays, November 25, December 9 & 23 at 2:00pm. Call 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

13-14th - Muncie Civic Theatre will continue its Family Theatre Workshop Series with the classic family musical ANNIE JR. The play will perform on November 23, 24, 30, December 1, 13, 14, & 22 at 7:30pm as well as on Sundays, November 25, December 9 & 23 at 2:00pm. Call 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

15th - Muncie Civic Theatre presents A CHRISTMAS STORY at 7:30 pm. The performances will be on the main stage at Muncie Civic Theatre. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

16th - Muncie Ballet Studio presents The Children's Nutcracker Saturday, Dec. 15, 7:00pm, Sunday, Dec. 16, 4:00pm Length: 1hour 30 minutes A holiday classic and wonderful family holiday tradition. A perfect length for our younger audience. Call 765-282-1480 or visit www.MuncieBallet.org

16th - Muncie Civic Theatre presents A CHRISTMAS STORY at 2:00pm. The performances will be on the main stage at Muncie Civic Theatre. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

20-21st - Muncie Civic Theatre presents A CHRISTMAS STORY at 7:30pm. The performances will be on the main stage at Muncie Civic Theatre. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

22-23rd - Muncie Civic Theatre will continue its Family Theatre Workshop Series with the classic family musical ANNIE JR. The play will perform on November 23, 24, 30, December 1, 13, 14, & 22 at 7:30pm as well as on Sundays, November 25, December 9 & 23 at 2:00pm. Call 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

29th - Minnestrista: Bend, Balance, and Belly Dance for 4-9 year olds; 1-3pm

29th - Minnestrista: Show & Tell: Dance, Dance! Dance in the New Year with belly dancers from the Laughing Monkey. 1:30-3pm

DECEMBER ONGOING:

Through December - Artworks Gallery will exhibit "Inspired by Nature" by Mary Ann Rahe from Dec. 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007. An opening reception will be held during First Thursday Downtown, Dec. 6, 2007 from 5:30 pm to 8:30pm, with light refreshments.

Through January 12 - Minnetrista will exhibit "White River Turtles: Paintings from Brian Gordy". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will host Anne Frank: A History for Today. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will exhibit "Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will exhibit "B'ruchim Habaim: Midwestern Sanctuary". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

************************************************************

SEND NEWS ITEMS:

Send information on downtown-related events for the weekly emailed newsletter to nancylnorris@aol.com.

Send information to be added to the downtown website to info@munciedowntown.com.

******************************

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Cornerstone Presents Candy Cane Lane

Come join Cornerstone Center for the Arts for this FREE event to start off the holiday season! Children and adults alike will enjoy various activities on the 2nd floor of the Cornerstone Center for the Arts building.

We will have Crafts for the children to make, Entertainment provided in our Theatre Room, and best of all children can walk through Candy Cane Lane to get their picture taken with Santa and receive a gift courtesy of Advance Dental Care, A Bright Smile Toy Drive!

For more information please contact Brett Ellison @ 765-281-9503, ext. 53.


Additional Support provided by Indiana Public Radio, Indiana Arts Commission, Arts Place, Inc., and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.


Who: Cornerstone Center for the Arts

What: Cornerstone Candy Cane Lane Presented by Alpha Chapter of Psi Iota Xi.

When: Saturday, November 17, 2007
1pm-3:30pm

Where: Cornerstone Center for the Arts
2nd Floor
520 E Main St
Muncie IN 47305

Monday, November 12, 2007

DBC ANNOUNCEMENT: Muncie Downtown Business Council Mall Promotion

Deck the Mall and Bring Them Downtown for the Holidays! Attention Downtown business owners... we have been given a great - and affordable - opportunity to establish a Mall presence for the holiday season.

Stacie Nance, director of the Muncie Mall operations, is making the large wall adjacent to Macy's at the Macy's/Finish Line entrance available to the Muncie Downtown Business Council. The space we have to work with is about 20' wide by 14' high.

If several businesses co-op this space, it becomes very affordable. Who wouldn't want the thousands of eager-to-spend Muncie Mall visitors/shoppers, from our own city and surrounding ECI towns, to "come on down...discover Muncie's Downtown"?

We need to act quickly in order to have the Holiday exposure we want. The display will run from November 20, 2007 through January 20, 2008. This covers holiday shopping and returns, so our Downtown promotion will receive the maximum exposure.

The cost is more affordable than you might think! Please contact Mike Martin at Doc's (email hillbilly_martin@hotmail.com), or Bob Hartley at The Artist Within (email theartistwithininc@yahoo.com) for more information, or to sign up for this great opportunity to help grow our Downtown.

Please spread the word to any Downtown merchant you think may be interested in this opportunity.

Stay tuned to munciedowntown.com, and sign up for the mailing list to stay informed.

Fall Celebration at Cornerstone

Cornerstone Center for the Arts is holding its Fall Celebration! The Celebration is free to the entire community, and will include games; crafts; toys; refreshments; hip hop and tap dance performances; theatre performance; free class sessions; art demonstrations on the clay wheel and painting easels; an art gallery of student and instructor works including ceramics, painting, and jewelry; voice and piano recitals; Spring class registration; special appearance by Santa at Candy Cane Lane on the 2nd floor, and more. Cornerstone's fall classes will perform on stage and will be featured throughout the displays while several classes will be open to the public for a free trial. Come and see what Cornerstone has to offer!

* What: FREE Cornerstone Fall Celebration
* When: Sunday, December 2, 2-5pm
* Where: Cornerstone Center for the Arts, 520 E. Main St. Muncie, IN 47305
* Who: Open to the public.

Whitinger & Co. Open House

Whitinger & Company and Whitinger Financial Advisers invite the community to its open house, celebrating its new building and renewed commitment to our community.

Thursday, November 15, 2007
4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m.
White River Blvd. at Ontario Place.

Please join us!

Thursday, November 08, 2007

Weekly Downtown E-News 11/7/07

November Events: 8-11th - Harvest Moon Film Festival, For more information : A Gathering of Films and Filmmakers Celebrating the Midwest, at Cornerstone and Civic Theatre downtown. The festival will feature classic Midwestern films and submissions from regional filmmakers. Visit harvestmoonfilmfestival.com for details.

9th - Minnetrista "Minnetrip" to Fort Wayne's Country Kitchen SweetArt, Inc., where we'll practice making candy, cookies and cakes, just in time for the holidays. Lunch will be provided. Registration Deadline: Fri., Nov. 2. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

9th - Minnetrista Home School Program: Turtle Photography Fri., Nov. 9, 1 - 3 p.m. Be a wildlife photographer! Learn the basics of photography using the various turtles of East Central Indiana as your subjects. Registration Deadline: Fri., Nov. 2. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

9-10th - The Main Street Studio Theatre will present a return engagement of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW at 10:00pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at the Box Office. THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW is intended for mature audiences and contains strong adult language and situations. No one under 17 will be admitted.

14th - Women in Business Unlimited 11:45 at Horizon Convention Center--topic Consuela Parsons, Lifestreams Services; and Women in Business Unlimited--Women's Self Defense Boost Workshop 5:30-7:30pm at Hillcroft, 4105 N. Walnut St.

14th - PBS Program Club at Minnetrista, 2-4pm. This program is free. Pre-registration is appreciated. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

16th - Join Vera Mae's Bistro for the 5th Annual Wine Dinner and Art Auction on Friday, November 16. Art preview will be at 6pm, with wine dinner at 7pm. Proceeds of the art auction to benefit Gallery 308 and ARF. Cost of the wine dinner if $75 per person (prepaid) and seating is limited to 75 guests. Past wine dinners have sold out quickly, so reserve your seat at 747-4941. Please, no emailed reservations.

17th - Coffee 101 - A Better Cup at Home, from 2-4pm at Blue Bottle. Dave Darga of Harvest Cafe and Tom Steiner of Blue Bottle will show you some of the tips and tricks they use to make great coffee at home. Class is limited to 15 people. Sign up at the counter or send us an e-mail. Lots of good coffee and food. And it is free. Sponsored in part by Cassella's Kitchen and The Artist Within.

17th -Muncie Children's Museum 30th Birthday party ~~featuring Survivor superstar: Rupert Boneham, 1:30pm, adm. to hear Rupert is $1 which will go to his Kids foundation. Museum adm. free 10-5pm. 11:30 free pizza and at 3:00pm free cake and ice cream.

17th - Muncie Civic Theatre will hold open auditions on Saturday, November 17 at 1:00pm in the main auditorium at 216 E. Main St. in downtown Muncie. Shows being cast from this audition include GODSPELL, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST, CHRISTMAS WITH PDQ BACH and THE FOLK SONG CABARET. For more information call 765-288-PLAY x4.

16-17th - The Main Street Studio Theatre will present a return engagement of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW at 10:00pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at the Box Office. THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW is intended for mature audiences and contains strong adult language and situations. No one under 17 will be admitted.

17th - The Artist Within turns three this month! Stop by Saturday, November 17th for cake and punch and to help us celebrate...thank you for your support the past three years!

17th - Winter Market Demonstration with Gingerbread at Minnetrista, Saturday, November 17, 9 a.m.-9:45 p.m. There is no fee or registration required for this program. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

22nd - Annual Turkey Trot on the Cardinal Greenway. For more info, please contact Angel Silvers at 765-287-0399.

23-24th Muncie Children's Museum--Santa visits free to members, otherwise $6 adm. Friday & Sat. 11-2pm, Sunday 2-4pm.

23-25th - Muncie Civic Theatre will continue its Family Theatre Workshop Series with the classic family musical ANNIE JR. The play will perform on November 23, 24, 30, December 1, 13, 14, & 22 at 7:30pm as well as on Sundays, November 25, December 9 & 23 at 2:00pm. Call 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

28th - Downtown Business Council will meet at 3pm. Following the meeting will be a "Meet the Members" mixer, from 5 to 7 pm at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Members will be on hand to answer any questions about the Downtown Business Council, and membership applications will be available for anyone who wants to join. Visit www.munciedowntown.com/DBC for more info.

30th - Muncie Civic Theatre will continue its Family Theatre Workshop Series with the classic family musical ANNIE JR. The play will perform on November 23, 24, 30, December 1, 13, 14, & 22 at 7:30pm as well as on Sundays, November 25, December 9 & 23 at 2:00pm. Call 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

30th & Dec. 1 - 2nd Annual Polar Express at the Historic Wysor Street Depot For more info, please contact Angel Silvers at 765-287-0399.

30th & Dec. 1 - Luminaria Walk 6-9pm at Minnetrista.

NOVEMBER ONGOING:

Through November - The Artist Within will feature artwork by members of "Creative Artists", a local organization that has a membership with a wide range of interests and mediums. These artists work in drawing, mixed media, oils, pastels, watercolor, sculpture and photography. The exhibit and sale will run November 1-30, 2007. An artists reception will be held from 5-8 pm, Thursday, November 1, 2007.

Through November - Gallery 308 will exhibit ceramics by the Ball State students of Ted Neal. An opening is scheduled for 5 p.m. on November 1 at the gallery.

Through November - Gordy Fine Art and Framing will exhibit "Odd Tales" by David Hannon, assistant professor of painting at Ball State University. An opening reception for the award-winning artist will be held during First Thursday on November 1, 2007, from 5 to 8 PM. Refreshments will be served and the public is invited to attend.

Through December - Artworks Gallery will exhibit "The Painters of Life and Light" from November 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007. An opening reception will be held during First Thursday Downtown, November 1, 2007 from 5:30 pm to 8:30pm, with light refreshments.

Through December 6th- Fall classes at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Call Cornerstone at 765.281.9503 to be added to the mailing list or pick up a brochure in the building. You can also register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through January 12 - Minnetrista will exhibit "White River Turtles: Paintings from Brian Gordy". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will host Anne Frank: A History for Today. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will exhibit "Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will exhibit "B'ruchim Habaim: Midwestern Sanctuary". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

UPCOMING IN DECEMBER:

4th Minnetrista: meet the author, Marion Blumenthal Lazan, co-author of Four Perfect Pebbles 4:30-6pm

8th Minnetrista Winter Market; honey, baked goods, meats, cheeses, fall vegetables, assorted other food items & greenery; 9am-noon

29th Minnestrista: Bend, Balance, and Belly Dance for 4-9 year olds; 1-3pm

29th Minnestrista: Show & Tell: Dance, Dance! Dance in the New Year with belly dancers from the Laughing Monkey. 1:30-3pm

Through December - Artworks Gallery will exhibit "Inspired by Nature" by Mary Ann Rahe from Dec. 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007. An opening reception will be held during First Thursday Downtown, Dec. 6, 2007 from 5:30 pm to 8:30pm, with light refreshments.



************************************************************

SEND NEWS ITEMS:

Send information on downtown-related events for the weekly emailed newsletter to nancylnorris@aol.com.

Send information to be added to the downtown website to info@munciedowntown.com.

***********************************************************

Mary Anne Rahe "Inspired by Nature" at Artworks in December

Artworks presents a new exhibition by Mary Ann Rahe for December. "Inspired by Nature" will be exhibit December 1, 2007 through January 1, 2008, with an Opening Reception at First Thursday, December 6, 2007, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm with light refreshments.

Mary Ann Rahe was born in Muncie, Indiana. She attended St. Louis University and earned B.A. and M.A. degrees in ceramics from Ball State University. During the nineteen-eighties, she was resident potter at Sinclair Shops, Hartford City, Indiana. She taught ceramics at Yorktown High School during most of the nineties. She is currently an instructor for the Art Department and School of Extended Education at Ball State University. Her artwork consists of ceramics and works on paper and is frequently inspired by relationships found in nature.

ONGOING EXHIBITS AT ARTWORKS GALLERY:

Linda Norris Morton - Pottery

Sally A. Myers - Metal and Ceramic Sculpture

Beth Whitney-Wentz - Handmade Paper and Jewelry

Ann Johnson, F. B. Fogg - Handmade Paper Sculpture

Barbara Swain - Pottery

Contact: Jeanette Gilbert for more information

765 288 0025

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

December Events at Minnetrista

Enchanted Luminaria Walk Nov. 30 & Dec. 1, 6 - 9 p.m. Don't miss this annual holiday celebration, featuring carriage rides, food, music, luminarias, decorations and more. "Gingerbread Acres" will be the theme this year.

In the Galleries at Minnetrista:

Anne Frank: A History for Today
October 27-January 20, 2007
Minnetrista will host Anne Frank: A History for Today October 27 through January 20. This historical, yet intimate exhibit depicts Anne Frank's life story using family photos and passages from her diary. Her biographical story is enhanced by testimony and powerful imagery from Holocaust survivors.
Anne Frank: A History for Today was developed by the Anne Frank House and is sponsored in North America by the Anne Frank Center USA.

B'ruchim Habaim: Midwestern Sanctuary
Now - January 20, 2007
This Minnetrista original is a photographic essay that depicts Jewish temples of East Central Indiana. Four temples and their congregations are represented. They include: Temple Beth El in Muncie; Temple B'nai Israel in Kokomo; Beth Boruk Temple in Richmond and Sinai Temple in Marion.


Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm
Now - January 20, 2008
Do you really know what you are eating? Discover the past of Indiana agriculture while learning about the current process of farming at Minnetrista now through January 20. Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm will explain the history of agriculture and its importance to the region.

White River Turtles: Paintings from Brian Gordy
October 13 - January 12
Award-winning Muncie artist, Brian Gordy, will exhibit the "Turtle Series" watercolor paintings October 13-January 12. These paintings have been the focus of his research and artwork for the past 10 years.
Gordy's works portray the basking habits and naturally composed self-arrangements he has witnessed during many hours of observation along the banks of local and regional water bodies. "These turtles are impressive, if not iconic, when you realize some might be 50 to 60 years old. They survived the polluted waters of the 60s, 70s and 80s when the river's species counts fell dramatically as a result of heavy industrial and sewage contaminations," Gordy says. "But these paintings are simply about the beauty of the animal."

PROGRAMS

Meet the Author:
Marion Blumenthal Lazan, co-author of Four Perfect Pebbles.
Tuesday, Dec. 4, 4:30 - 6 p.m.
Minnetrista Cultural Center
Price: Members, $15; non-members, $20. Pre-registration required.
Registration information: (765) 213-3549

Four Perfect Pebbles: A Holocaust Story
Hear Marion Blumenthal Lazan's story of survival. Marion's family endured six and a half years of fear and persecution in some of Europe's most notorious refugee, transit and concentration camps. Her message is one of respect, tolerance, perseverance and hope. Both programs are free and open to the public.
Tuesday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m.
Pruis Hall, Ball State University
Presented in partnership with Ball State University
Book signing following program

Wednesday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m.
Parker City Christ Fellowship Church
Presented in partnership with Christ Fellowship Church
Book signing following program

Family Programs

Gingerbread House Workshop
Sat., Dec. 8, 1 - 3 p.m.
Gingerbread walls, icing cement, gumdrop chimneys... the whole family will have great fun crafting a tasty house together! Everyone can be a part of this sweet program!
Price: Members, $15 per house; non-members, $20 per house.
Registration Deadline: Sat., Dec. 1.

Bend, Balance, and Belly Dance
For 4-9 year-olds
Sat., Dec. 29, 1 - 3 p.m.
Exercising is good for you. It can be lots of fun, too! Join us as we shape up for an afternoon of fun-filled activities! Children will practice endurance, strength, and flexibility on Minnetrista's very own agility course, exercise their mind with great memory and trivia games, and finish by learning some wiggly, jiggly moves performed by the Laughing Monkey belly dancing group.
Price: Members, $7; non-members, $10. Registration Deadline: Wed., Dec. 26

Show & Tell: Dance, Dance!
Sat. Dec. 29, 1:30 - 3 p.m.
Dance in the New Year with belly dancers from the Laughing Monkey. Watch them make their moves and then join in on the fun. Price: Included with paid admission.

For more information on any of these great events or programs, please visit us at www.minnetrista.net.

Coffee Workshop Nov. 17 at Blue Bottle

Join us November 17th from 2 to 4 pm for our Coffee 101 - A Better Cup at Home
Dave Darga of Harvest Cafe and Tom Steiner of Blue Bottle will show you some of the tips and tricks they use to make great coffee at home.

Class is limited to 15 people. Sign up at the counter or send us an e-mail. Lots of good coffee and food. And it is free.

Sponsored in part by Cassella's Kitchen and The Artist Within.

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

Muncie Civic presents A Christmas Story

MUNCIE CIVIC THEATRE will continue its season of revolving repertory
with the addition of A CHRISTMAS STORY to the December performance schedule. A CHRISTMAS STORY will be presented on alternating evenings along with the Family Theatre Workshop musical ANNIE JR. throughout the month. A CHRISTMAS STORY will perform on December 7, 8, 15, 20 & 21 at 7:30pm as well as on Sunday, December 16 at 2:00pm. The performances will be on the main stage at Muncie Civic Theatre, 216 East Main Street, Muncie, Indiana. Tickets are $15 for Adults, $6 for Ball State students and $5 for High School & Younger. Group rates are available. This production is rated G. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org. Box Office hours are Wednesday through Friday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm and one hour prior to each performance.

A CHRISTMAS STORY by Philip Grecian is based on the motion picture by Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown and Bob Clark which was adapted from the book "In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash" by Jean Shepherd. Hoosier humorist Jean Shepherd's memoir of growing up in Hammond, Indiana in the 1940s follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher and even Santa Claus himself at Goldblatt's Department Store. The consistent response: "You'll shoot your eye out." All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here, including the family's temperamental exploding furnace; Scud Farkas, the school bully; the boys' experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost; the Little Orphan Annie decoder pin; Ralphie's father winning a lamp shaped like a woman's leg in a net stocking; Ralphie's fantasy scenarios and more. The play is very faithful to the classic film with the addition! of an on-stage actor narrating the audience through the story as an adult Ralphie, a device that was accomplished through voice-over in the movie. Jean Shepherd's joyous celebration of childhood has already become a theatrical holiday perennial and audiences have the opportunity to experience it in a whole new way in this hilarious live stage version.

Under the Direction of Ball State Department of Theatre & Dance professor Dr. Michael O'Hara, the production features performances by professional actor Andrew Persinger as The Old Man and Ball State Theatre professor Michael Daehn as Adult Ralphie. The cast also includes Civic veterans Rita Wessel, Jeff Shull and Neil Renike as well as Civic Young Actors Workshop & Yorktown Middle School student Scott Meyer as Ralphie. The production is sponsored by Defur Voran and Rutter Media.

For tickets and information call 765-288-PLAY.

Thursday, November 01, 2007

Weekly Downtown E-News 11/1/07

NOVEMBER EVENTS: 1st - First Thursday from 5 to 8pm. Downtown's many art galleries host meet-the-artist receptions and spotlight their exhibit openings for the month. All the specialty and gift shops are open late on this evening; and music and light refreshments can be found at almost every stop for a free, family fun event.

1st - Artist Within: feature Marilyn Derwenskus demonstrating "Fuse" the encaustic work of BSU art students.

2nd - A ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the South Walnut Street Roundabout is scheduled for Friday November 2nd from noon-1:00pm with official comments and ribbon cutting at 12:15. Brown bag lunch from Carter's Hotdog Cart and live musical entertainment from Muncie Central High School Band will be available throughout the lunch hour. The public is encouraged to attend. For more information please contact Cheryl Crowder @ 765 282-7897 or chercrowder@gmail.com.

2nd - Muncie Children's Museum - Friends and Family Fun Night. Free admission from 3 - 7 p.m. November's Friends and Family Fun Night will feature performances by Ball State University's Theatre Education Department's, Stone Soup

2-3rd - The Main Street Studio Theatre will present a return engagement of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW at 10:00pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at the Box Office. THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW is intended for mature audiences and contains strong adult language and situations. No one under 17 will be admitted.

3rd - Show & Tell: Gingerbread Houses at Minnetrista, Saturday, November 3, 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. Included with paid admission, there is no registration required for this program. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

8-11th - Harvest Moon Film Festival, For more information : A Gathering of Films and Filmmakers Celebrating the Midwest, at Cornerstone and Civic Theatre downtown. The festival will feature classic Midwestern films and submissions from regional filmmakers. Visit harvestmoonfilmfestival.com for details.

9th - Minnetrista "Minnetrip" to Fort Wayne's Country Kitchen SweetArt, Inc., where we'll practice making candy, cookies and cakes, just in time for the holidays. Lunch will be provided. Registration Deadline: Fri., Nov. 2. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

9th - Minnetrista Home School Program: Turtle Photography Fri., Nov. 9, 1 - 3 p.m. Be a wildlife photographer! Learn the basics of photography using the various turtles of East Central Indiana as your subjects. Registration Deadline: Fri., Nov. 2. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

9-10th - The Main Street Studio Theatre will present a return engagement of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW at 10:00pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at the Box Office. THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW is intended for mature audiences and contains strong adult language and situations. No one under 17 will be admitted.

14th - Women in Business Unlimited 11:45 at Horizon Convention Center--topic Consuela Parsons, Lifestreams Services; and Women in Business Unlimited--Women's Self Defense Boost Workshop 5:30-7:30pm at Hillcroft, 4105 N. Walnut St.

14th - PBS Program Club at Minnetrista, 2-4pm. This program is free. Pre-registration is appreciated. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

16th - Join Vera Mae's Bistro for the 5th Annual Wine Dinner and Art Auction on Friday, November 16. Art preview will be at 6pm, with wine dinner at 7pm. Proceeds of the art auction to benefit Gallery 308 and ARF. Cost of the wine dinner if $75 per person (prepaid) and seating is limited to 75 guests. Past wine dinners have sold out quickly, so reserve your seat at 747-4941. Please, no emailed reservations.

17th - Muncie Civic Theatre will hold open auditions on Saturday, November 17 at 1:00pm in the main auditorium at 216 E. Main St. in downtown Muncie. Shows being cast from this audition include GODSPELL, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST, CHRISTMAS WITH PDQ BACH and THE FOLK SONG CABARET. For more information call 765-288-PLAY x4.

16-17th - The Main Street Studio Theatre will present a return engagement of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW at 10:00pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at the Box Office. THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW is intended for mature audiences and contains strong adult language and situations. No one under 17 will be admitted.

17th - The Artist Within turns three this month! Stop by Saturday, November 17th for cake and punch and to help us celebrate...thank you for your support the past three years!

17th - Winter Market Demonstration with Gingerbread at Minnetrista, Saturday, November 17, 9 a.m.-9:45 p.m. There is no fee or registration required for this program. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

22nd - Annual Turkey Trot on the Cardinal Greenway. For more info, please contact Angel Silvers at 765-287-0399.

23-25th - Muncie Civic Theatre will continue its Family Theatre Workshop Series with the classic family musical ANNIE JR. The play will perform on November 23, 24, 30, December 1, 13, 14, & 22 at 7:30pm as well as on Sundays, November 25, December 9 & 23 at 2:00pm. Call 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

29th - Downtown Business Council will have a "Meet the Members" mixer, from 5 to 7 pm at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Members will be on hand to answer any questions about the Downtown Business Council, and membership applications will be available for anyone who wants to join. Visit www.munciedowntown.com/DBC for more info.

30th - Muncie Civic Theatre will continue its Family Theatre Workshop Series with the classic family musical ANNIE JR. The play will perform on November 23, 24, 30, December 1, 13, 14, & 22 at 7:30pm as well as on Sundays, November 25, December 9 & 23 at 2:00pm. Call 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org.

30th & Dec. 1 - 2nd Annual Polar Express at the Historic Wysor Street Depot For more info, please contact Angel Silvers at 765-287-0399.

30th & Dec. 1 - Luminaria Walk 6-9pm at Minnetrista.

NOVEMBER ONGOING:

Through November - The Artist Within will feature artwork by members of "Creative Artists", a local organization that has a membership with a wide range of interests and mediums. These artists work in drawing, mixed media, oils, pastels, watercolor, sculpture and photography. The exhibit and sale will run November 1-30, 2007. An artists reception will be held from 5-8 pm, Thursday, November 1, 2007.

Through November - Gallery 308 will exhibit ceramics by the Ball State students of Ted Neal. An opening is scheduled for 5 p.m. on November 1 at the gallery.

Through November - Gordy Fine Art and Framing will exhibit "Odd Tales" by David Hannon, assistant professor of painting at Ball State University. An opening reception for the award-winning artist will be held during First Thursday on November 1, 2007, from 5 to 8 PM. Refreshments will be served and the public is invited to attend.

Through December - Artworks Gallery will exhibit "The Painters of Life and Light" from November 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007. An opening reception will be held during First Thursday Downtown, November 1, 2007 from 5:30 pm to 8:30pm, with light refreshments.

Through December 6th- Fall classes at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Call Cornerstone at 765.281.9503 to be added to the mailing list or pick up a brochure in the building. You can also register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through January 12 - Minnetrista will exhibit "White River Turtles: Paintings from Brian Gordy". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will host Anne Frank: A History for Today. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will exhibit "Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

Through January 20 - Minnetrista will exhibit "B'ruchim Habaim: Midwestern Sanctuary". Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

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David Hannon Exhibits "Odd Tales" at Gordy Fine Art & Framing

David Hannon, assistant professor of painting at Ball State University, will exhibit new paintings during the month of November at Gordy Fine Art & Framing Company in downtown Muncie. An opening reception for the award-winning artist will be held during First Thursday on November 1, 2007, from 5 to 8 PM. Refreshments will be served and the public is invited to attend.

Hannon's unique style in this series fuses traditional landscape with acrylic transfer images borrowed from the masters. He encourages his audience to read into each piece. "I believe my paintings should form a relationship between beauty and mystery, and invite the viewer to search deeper for the meaning and significance of each work," offers the artist. The show's title refers to the mixed media use of his contemporary painting, co-mingled with images borrowed from ages past. "I found working with another artist's drawings created an interesting dynamic between the original artist's intent and how I can manipulate their images with my invented landscape and imposed narrative."

Odd Tales will be on display through November 30th, and may also be seen during normal business hours, Monday - Friday, 9 AM to 5:30 PM, Saturday, 9 to 3. Gordy Fine Art & Framing Company is located at 224 East Main Street in the historic Boyce Block. For more information, call 284-8422 or visit their website, www.gordyframing.com.