January at The Artist Within

The Artist Within will be closed New Year's Day. We will also be closed January 15th and January 26th thru January 30th for "Winter Break".

January will offer a "Sneak Peek" of work by the artists who will be featured in 2008. We plan to have a "First Thursday" opening from 5-8 pm January 3rd. Come see what 2008 has in store for you.

Jewelry classes with Heidi J. Hale will be back in February. Marti offers two Art Clay Silver classes on Saturday, January 19th: "Basic Art Clay Silver" from 9:00am-noon and "Band Ring" from 12:30-5:30pm. Class size is limited and pre-registration is required.

Kim Anderson offers throwing lessons throughout January...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 a date for your group...cost varies with the pottery piece being painted. We have lots of stories and related pottery or we can build around your child's favorite story.

Join the "Lunch Bunch" for a great work getaway...call or stop by for details.

Looking ahead to February... Tina Icenogle, Marti's daughter, will offer a two day workshop on "Fused Glass" in February. The class will meet from 11:00am-5:00pm on Sundays February 3rd and 10th. Class size is limited to six so plan ahead and sign up early.

Don't forget "Valentine's Day Desserts and More" February 14th from 6-9 pm...call or stop by for more information.

"Muncie Gras" comes early this year...Saturday, February 2...make plans early.

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

Weekly Downtown E-News 12/28/07

December Events: 26th-January 6th Muncie Children's Museum's Winter Break Programming. Check website for details at www.munciechildrensmuseum.com. Muncie Children's Museum supports the Ball State Cardinals--wear your Ball State t-shirt or sweatshirt and receive half off a youth admission with the purchase of adult adm.

28th Morton's Pub & Grub features: Megan's Mystical Harp at 8pm

28th - Doc's Music Hall features Muncie rock band Long Plastic Hallway are performing at 10pm.

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

29th - Doc's Music Hall - Tony Z's birthday, with no cover, drink specials and performances by Doc's sound engineer and hip-hop emcee Tony Z, Rediculigion (formerly Redic-u-lishous), Green Suga, and Bogardus.

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

29th - Muncie Children's Museum--Free Family Saturday 10-5pm

29th - Morton's Pub & Grub will feature music by Jake Hendershot. Show starts at 8pm. No cover! Visit www.myspace.com/mortonspub for info.

31st - New Year's Eve Dinner at Vera Mae's. Seating from 5 to 9:30 pm. Music by Frank Puzzullo Trio from 6 to 10pm. Reservations strongly suggested. Call 765-747-4941.

31st - New Year's Eve at Doc's Music Hall, featuring Know More Robots, the Michael Martin Band, Shoeshine Joe & The Muddy Souls, and The Spitshine, with a special performance at 7pm by Doc Peterson and Friends.

31st - New Year's Eve at Fickle Peach, featuring The G.O.A.T.

31st - New Year's Eve at The Heorot features Shoeshine Joe and the Muddy Souls

31st - New Year's Eve at Morton's Pub & Grub Downtown on High Street....ring in the new year Irish style

DECEMBER ONGOING:

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

Through December - Artworks Gallery presents Mary Ann Rahe's exhibit "Inspired by Nature," ffeatured 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. The exhibit "The Painters of Life and Light" continues through December 31, 2007.

Through December - Blue Bottle will exhibit the artwork of Jessica Maxwell during December.

Through January - Gordy Fine Art & Framing will host its annual Print Show, featuring twenty area artists. 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. 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.

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.

JANUARY EVENTS:

5th - Tic-Tac Turtle at Minnetrista, 1 - 2:30 p.m. Discover the differences between land and water turtles, then make a fun tic-tac-toe game to help you remember! Registration Deadline: Wed., Jan. 2. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

10th - Winter Carnival OPEN HOUSE at Community Center for Vital Aging, 4:00-6:30PM. FREE and open to the public. Observe and participate in demonstrations of Yoga, Tai Chi and Sweating To and With the Oldies (our new exercise class). Participants can sign up for all of our new classes, have refreshments, get health screenings, and play carnival games with door prizes. Please call the CCVA at (765) 289-4541 to reserve your seat.

13th - Open Kiln Night: Small Pieces at Minnetrista, 4 - 8 p.m. Choose from a wide variety of glass, use Minnetrista's cutting tool, and fire your own piece to take home. Size templates will be provided. Knowledge of glass cutting and basic techniques is required to participate. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

16th - PBS Program Club, 2 - 4 p.m. This month's discussion is about "Prayer in America." Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

16th - Community Center for Vital Aging presents WONDER WOMEN 6:30 -- 8:00 p.m., FREE lecture by Elaine Cotner of Ball State University's Women's Studies Department. Please call the CCVA at (765) 289-4541 to reserve your seat.

19th - Show & Tell: Kick in the New Year at Minnetrista, 1:30 - 3 p.m. Kick in the New Year with a lesson in Kung Fu. Learn how this martial art is also a form of meditation. Kung Fu trainers from Laughing Monkey will demonstrate and show you a few moves. Call (765) 282-4848 or visit http://www.minnetrista.net.

22nd - Community Center for Vital Aging presents HOME BASED BUSINESS: HOW TO GET STARTED AND BE SUCCESSFUL 6:30--8:00 p.m., FREE Small Business Development Center director, Rick Leibowitz, will share information on how to start a small home business and be successful. Please call the CCVA at (765) 289-4541 to reserve your seat.

23rd - Community Center for Vital Aging presents INVENTIONS OF THE 21ST CENTURY 6:30 -- 8:00 p.m., FREE lecture by Dr. Rich Seymour from the BallState University's Department of Technology. Please call the CCVA at (765) 289-4541 to reserve your seat.

25th - Community Center for Vital Aging presents a CRAFT SEMINAR 10:00 a.m. -- 12:00 p.m. Cost includes 2-3 craft activities to make and take home. Please call the CCVA at (765) 289-4541 for cost and info.

28th - Community Center for Vital Aging presents BABY BLUES, BEAUTIFUL BROWNS: EXCELLENT EYE INFORMATION 6:30 -- 8:00 p.m., FREE lecture byDr. Vasilis Makris. Please call the CCVA at (765) 289-4541 to reserve your seat.

30th - Community Center for Vital Aging presents FLOWN THE COOP 6:30 -- 8:00 p.m., FREE lecture by Dr. Bradley Hartman from Associates in Mental Health.

JANUARY ONGOING:

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.

Through January - Artworks presents an exhibit by Jack Orrick, "The Wood Speaks," with an opening reception at First Thursdays, January 3, 2008, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Through January - Gordy Fine Art & Framing will host its annual Print Show, featuring twenty area artists. 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. 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.

Through January - Gallery 308 presents an exhibit by Margie Prim, to open on January 3, 2008. The public is invited to the opening reception, 5-8 p.m., when light refreshments will be served and the artist will be on hand.

Jan 28-Apr. 24th Cornerstone for the Arts winter classes. Call for more info about classes at 281-9503 or visit www.cornerstonearts.org.

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

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.

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

Upcoming events at the Community Center for Vital Aging (CCVA)

The Community Center for Vital Aging (CCVA) is Located at the Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Open to ALL ages with a target audience of those age 50+. Please call the CCVA at (765) 289-4541 to reserve your seat. SPACE IS LIMITED!

January 10th, Winter Carnival OPEN HOUSE, 4:00-6:30PM. FREE and open to the public. Observe and participate in demonstrations of Yoga, Tai Chi and Sweating To and With the Oldies (our new exercise class). Participants can sign up for all of our new classes, have refreshments, get health screenings, and play carnival games with door prizes.

January 11, TRIAD MEETING
10:00 -- 11:00 a.m. Open to the general public. TRIAD is open to anyone interested in the rights and issues of seniors. TRIAD is made up of seniors, social service agents, and law enforcement.

January 11 - Brown Bag and a Movie: Sabrina. 12-2pm, FREE.

January 16th - WONDER WOMEN
6:30 -- 8:00 p.m., FREE
Women like Rosa Parks and Marie Curie grace the pages of countless history books. There are many other women not as well known but were equally influential on our lives today. Join Elaine Cotner of Ball State University's Women's Studies Department as she explores the lives of some of these amazing women.

January 22 HOME BASED BUSINESS: HOW TO GET STARTED AND BE SUCCESSFUL
6:30--8:00 p.m., FREE Small Business Development Center director, Rick Leibowitz, will share information on how to start a small home business and be successful. It takes more than an idea so learn from the best.

January 23 INVENTIONS OF THE 21ST CENTURY
6:30 -- 8:00 p.m., FREE
Ever wonder what scientists and inventors will come up with next? Dr. Rich Seymour from the BallState University's Department of Technology will share what we can expect in the future. Will cars run on magnetic tracks in the road and not need fuel? Who knows! Hopefully Dr. Seymour will bring his crystal ball and give us a glimpse into the future.

January 25 CRAFT SEMINAR
10:00 a.m. -- 12:00 p.m.
Cost: $6.00 per person
We are continuing to host our monthly craft class that will offer 2-3 craft activities to make and take home. Enjoy the fellowship of other crafters and learn to make interesting items.

January 28 Beginning Bridge 11a.m.-12:15 p.m. FREE
Duplicate Bridge 1:00p.m.-2:00p.m. FREE

January 28 - BABY BLUES, BEAUTIFUL BROWNS: EXCELLENT EYE INFORMATION
6:30 -- 8:00 p.m., FREE
We only have one set of eyes and they are the windows to our world. Dr. Vasilis Makris will talk about the latest techniques in treating cataracts, macular degeneration, lasik surgery, diseases and conditions of the eye. Eye surgery is a fairly risk-free type of treatment that can often restore and recover lost or limited vision. You owe it to yourself and your eyes to get the best care.

January 30 - FLOWN THE COOP
6:30 -- 8:00 p.m., FREE
What do you do when your little "birds" have flown the coop?
Dr. Bradley Hartman from Associates in Mental Health will discuss ways to cope with a suddenly childless home and how to build a "new" nest.


___________ Ongoing __________

EXERCISE CLASSES:
YOGA -- Thursdays, January 17-- March 27th, 9:30 -- 10:30 a.m. Cost: $30 for 10 sessions.
Learn Yoga from the inside out with instructor Sara Lyttle. If you want a good workout that is gentle to the body but invigorating, then this is the class for you.

SWEATING TO AND WITH THE OLDIES Thursdays, January 17-- March 20, 4:00 -- 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $30 for 10 weeks. For those of you who want a good workout that won't leave you gasping for breath, YOU need to join our guru of dance, Arttacgo Luckett. You can exercise, have loads of fun, work off the holiday pounds and listen to sounds of the 50's, 60's. and 70's.

January Programs at Minnetrista

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."

Upcoming Programs & Events:

ADULT Programs

Open Kiln Night: Small Pieces - Sun., Jan. 13, 4 - 8 p.m.
If you'd like to be a glass artist, but you lack the tools, join us for this workshop. Choose from a wide variety of glass, use Minnetrista's cutting tool, and fire your own piece to take home. Size templates will be provided. Knowledge of glass cutting and basic techniques is required to participate.
Space is limited, pre-registration is required. Price: Members, $10; non-members, $15.

PBS Program Club - Wed., Jan. 16, 2 - 4 p.m.
This month, join us for a lively discussion about "Prayer in America." This two-part documentary explores how prayer has shaped America.
Meeting place: Minnetrista.
Price: FREE.


Family Programs

Tic-Tac Turtle - Sat., Jan. 5, 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Discover the differences between land and water turtles, then make a fun tic-tac-toe game to help you remember!
Price: Members, $10 per family; non-members, $15 per family.
Registration Deadline: Wed., Jan. 2.

Show & Tell: Kick in the New Year - Sat., Jan. 19, 1:30 - 3 p.m.
Kick in the New Year with a lesson in Kung Fu. Learn how this martial art is also a form of meditation. Kung Fu trainers from Laughing Monkey will demonstrate and show you a few moves.
Price: Included with paid admission.

HomeSchool Programs

It Stings Your Toes and Bites Your Nose - Fri., Jan. 11, 1 - 3 p.m.
(Program recommended for ages 5-9)
Explore all things affected by frost, from plants to animals to people. Meet Tim Carter, Assistant Professor of Biology at Ball State University, and his bats; see the exhibit, Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm; and learn how to protect yourself from the cold.
For Indiana standards regarding this program, visit www.minnetrista.net.
Meeting place: Minnetrista.
Price: $5 per student; parents FREE.
Registration Deadline: Wed., Jan. 9.


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

Muncie Ballet January Classes

Muncie Ballet Studio provides performance based classical dance classes for children. Classes begin Jan 5th. Registration for new students ends Jan. 21, 2008. All dancers are invited to perform in Muncie Ballet's Spring Concert: Alice in Wonderland April 25 & 26, 2008
Once a week classes are $36 monthly. To register visit www.MuncieBallet.org or call 765-282-1480

Muncie Ballet Pre-K Age 3-5

Ballet stories brought to life with tutus, tip toes and twinkle
Classes offered:
Monday 6:30-7:15PM Or
Tuesday 4:15-5:00PM Or
Saturday 11:00-11:45PM

Muncie Ballet K-Grade 1
Ballerina in Training
Classes offered:
Monday 5:30-6:30PM Or
Thursday 4:00-5:00PM Or
Saturday 10:00-11:00AM

Muncie Ballet Grade 1-3
On Your Toes! Ever wonder how a ballerina dances on her toes? Learn ballet with a spin and some sparkle.
Classes offered
Monday 5:30-6:30PM Or
Saturday 9:00-10:00AM


Muncie Ballet Grade 3- 6 & up
Pirouetteses & Piques
Classes offered:
Monday 5:30-6:30 PM Or
Saturday 9:00-10:00AM

Muncie Ballet Pre-Pointe Age 9 & up
For dancers with previous dance experience
Tuesday & Thursday 5:00-6:00PM, Saturday rehearsal 12-2:00pm on most Saturdays.
Preparing for pointe work begins with this class.

Muncie Ballet Pointe Classes Age 13 & up
For dancers with previous dance experience
Tuesday & Thursday 6:00-7:30Pm, Saturday rehearsal 12-3:00pm on most Saturdays.
Join this class and bring your flexibility, extension, turns, jumps and pointe work to a new level. Pointe shoes not required.

This Week at Doc's Music Hall

Week of 12/27... THIS THURSDAY - Cotton Mouff presents the After-Christmas Hip-Hop Bash. Music starts at 10pm and goes until close. $5 cover gets you performances by CoTToN MouFF, Phenom, K.I., New Level Records, Dopey D & Big Face, Ron C, and more, as well as $2 gin and juice and $1 Long Islands!

THIS FRIDAY
Muncie rock band Long Plastic Hallway are performing at 10pm. No cover, free hot dogs, and $1 Killian's all night.
http://www.longplastichallway.com/

THIS SATURDAY
It's Tony Z's birthday! No cover, $1 white Russians, $5 cheese pizzas, and performances by our resident sound engineer and hip-hop emcee Tony Z, Rediculigion (formerly Redic-u-lishous), Green Suga, and Bogardus.
http://www.myspace.com/tonyzsoundman
http://www.redic-u-lishous.com
http://www.myspace.com/greensugamusic
http://www.myspace.com/bogardusrapmusic

THIS SUNDAY
The weekly battle of wit and cunning where egos are crushed and legends are born continues this Sunday with Trivia Night. The winners get a $50 bar tab, but everybody gets our $10 "Pizza and a Pitcher" special, along with $1 pints of any of our draft beers with an FM Music mug. It's free to play, but we start at 9pm sharp.

THIS MONDAY - NEW YEAR'S EVE
The biggest New Year's Eve party in town is at Doc's, and it's absolutely FREE to get in to! Come downtown to join us and see performances by some of Muncie's favorite bands: Know More Robots, the Michael Martin Band, Shoeshine Joe & The Muddy Souls, and The Spitshine, and the evening is going to start off at 7pm with a special performance by Doc Peterson and Friends.
http://www.myspace.com/knowmorerobots
http://michaelmartinband.com
http://www.myspace.com/shoeshinejoeandthemuddysouls
http://www.myspace.com/thespitshine


DOCSMUSICHALL.COM
Check out our website for an updated menu of our beer selection, as well as our food menu, list of daily specials, and a printable coupon for a free slice of pizza with purchase of any drink.

STREET TEAM
If you would like to join our street team, come down on Mondays at 6:30pm for free pizza and beer and opportunities to help promote what's happening at Doc's.

DAVID ALLAN COE
There are still tickets available for the return of outlaw country legend David Allan Coe (of "Take This Job and Shove It" and "If That Ain't Country" fame) to Doc's Music Hall. Doors open 5pm, Friday, February 8th, and music starts at 9pm. Tickets are $30. Opening bands include the Michael Martin Band and the Silver Dollar Family Band. Purchase tickets at Doc's or over the phone with your credit card by calling (765) 286-0949.

COUNTY DONATES CONDOMS TO DOC'S
The Delaware County Health Department and Doc's Music Hall have teamed up to create a downtown distribution point for free condoms. We'd like to thank the Health Department for giving us this opportunity to promote safe sex. If you plan on having any of that anytime soon, stop on by Doc's to pick up the necessary supplies!


See you downtown!
- Doc's Management.

Weekly Downtown E-News 12/20/07

Downtown Announcements: Congratulations to the winners of the Muncie Downtown Business Council Holiday Storefront Contest. They are: "Most Traditional"- Toys Forever, "Most Artistic & Creative" - Murray's Jewelers, and "Most Well-Lit" - The Artist Within. The gift basket awards will be distributed after the New Year.

Don't forget to Shop Downtown for last-minute holiday gifts. All of our shops are independently owned and operated. Click here to print out the Downtown Deals coupon sheet from munciedowntown.com. Printed copies of the coupon sheet are available at various Downtown establishments. Additional copies are available at the Downtown Development office, if you'd like to make some available for your own customers.


DECEMBER EVENTS :

18th-24th Minnetrista membership special~~buy a one-year membership and you will receive an additional membership for 50% off. Call 282-4848 for details.

20th - A Very Metal Christmas" at Doc's Music Hall. Consume the Eyes, Nomadic, the Antagonists, Laid To Waste, and Malachai are going to fill the night with the relentless sounds of Hoosier metal. Visit www.docsmusichall.com for info.

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.

21st - Muncie rock band Ruined For Life (http://www.myspace.com/ruinedforlife66) will be performing at Doc's Music Hall. Visit www.docsmusichall.com for details.

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.

22nd - Lafayette rock band the PMG (http://www.myspace.com/thepmg) will be performing at Doc's Music Hall. Visit www.docsmusichall.com for info.

24th - Doc's Music Hall presents a Christmas Eve acoustic jam, with Mike Martin and Derreck Spaulding. Visit www.docsmusichall.com for info.

26th - January 6th- Muncie Children's Museum Winter Break Program. Check website for details at /www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

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

29th - Muncie Children's Museum--Free Family Saturday 10-5pm

29th - Morton's Pub & Grub will feature music by Jake Hendershot. Show starts at 8pm. No cover! Visit www.myspace.com/mortonspub for info.

31st - New Year's Eve Dinner at Vera Mae's. Seating from 5 to 9:30 pm. Music by Frank Puzzullo Trio from 6 to 10pm. Reservations strongly suggested. Call 765-747-4941.

DECEMBER ONGOING:

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

Through December - Artworks Gallery presents Mary Ann Rahe's exhibit "Inspired by Nature," ffeatured 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. The exhibit "The Painters of Life and Light" continues through December 31, 2007.

Through December - Blue Bottle will exhibit the artwork of Jessica Maxwell during December.

Through January - Gordy Fine Art & Framing will host its annual Print Show, featuring twenty area artists. 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. 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.

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 JANUARY:

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.

Through January - Artworks presents an exhibit by Jack Orrick, "The Wood Speaks," with an opening reception at First Thursdays, January 3, 2008, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Through January - Gordy Fine Art & Framing will host its annual Print Show, featuring twenty area artists. 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. 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.

Through January - Gallery 308 presents an exhibit by Margie Prim, to open on January 3, 2008. The public is invited to the opening reception, 5-8 p.m., when light refreshments will be served and the artist will be on hand.

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

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.

This Week at Doc's Music Hall

We have a lot of fun events coming up this weekend, and as a Christmahanukwanzaaka gift to you, we're not charging cover for anything this week!

THIS WEDNESDAY
Open Mic Night starts at 9pm, and whiskey drinks drop to $2.

THIS THURSDAY
"A Very Metal Christmas" comes to Doc's! Consume the Eyes, Nomadic, the Antagonists, Laid To Waste, and Malachai are going to fill the night with the relentless sounds of Hoosier metal, and our hardworking bartenders are going to fill your stomach with $2 J?ger shots and $3 J?ger bombs.

THIS FRIDAY
Muncie rock band Ruined For Life (http://www.myspace.com/ruinedforlife66) will be performing, and we'll be giving out free hot dogs and $1 Killian's.

THIS SATURDAY
Lafayette rock band the PMG (http://www.myspace.com/thepmg) will be performing, and our specials will be $1 white Russians and $5 cheese pizzas.

THIS SUNDAY
Trivia night returns! Sign up before 9pm, play for free, and collect a $50 tab if your team wins. Draft beer is $1 on Sundays with an FM Music mug, and our Sunday "pizza and a pitcher" special is only $10.

THIS MONDAY
We expect anything but a silent night for our Christmas Eve acoustic jam, with Mike Martin and Derreck Spaulding giving performances and our bartenders giving $2 pitchers of Bud Light, $2 J?ger shots, and $3 J?ger bombs.

DAVID ALLAN COE
We're pleased to announce that outlaw country legend David Allan Coe will be returning to Doc's Music Hall on Friday, February 8th. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased in person or by calling Doc's at (765) 286-0949. The night's opening acts will be the Michael Martin Band and the Silver Dollar Family Band. Doors open at 5pm and the show kicks off at 9pm.

THE GRAHAMMYS
Breaking news! Saturday, March 1st, Doc's will host The Grahammys: The First Annual Muncie Scene Awards Banquet. We're gathering together all of the bands that have played at Doc's Music Hall over the past year and giving out awards to the most outstanding, notable, unique, and bizarre performers that have graced our town with their talent. Presenting the awards will be the event's host and namesake: local promoter, emcee, and founder of TheMuncieScene.com, Graham "Phantom" Watson. Ticket information will be announced soon, as will the guest performance lineup. Spread the word about the Grahammys!

STREET TEAM MEETINGS
If you'd like to help support your favorite local art and music hangout, come on down to our street team meetings every Monday at 6:30. Free beer and pizza go to everybody that wants to take part in getting the word out about events at Doc's.

Minnetrista Offers Membership Special

A Minnetrista membership makes a great gift for family and friends! Now through December 24, if you buy a one-year Minnetrista Membership, you will receive an additional membership, of equal or lesser value, for 50% off. Minnetrista members enjoy free admission to all exhibits, discounts at the Center Shop and Orchard Shop, program and workshop discounts, a free subscription to Columns, a quarterly magazine, invitations to exclusive events, and more. Spend the coming year exploring nature, history, gardens and art with your family and friends! For information, contact Deborah Lindsey at (765) 213-3540, ext. 120.

Minnetrista hours: Mon. - Sat., 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Admission: Members, FREE; non-members, $4 child/student; $6 senior; $7 adult.

For more information, call (765) 282-4848 or visit www.minnetrista.net.

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.

Margie Prim Exhibit in January at Gallery 308

GALLERY 308, the downtown Muncie art gallery, announced today that an exhibit by Margie Prim, a local painter and member of the Indiana Plein Air Painters and the Minnetrista Art Guild, will open on January 3, 2008. The public is invited to the opening reception, 5-8 p.m., when light refreshments will be served and the artist will be on hand.

Prim's work often features local scenery and still life compositions but with a private, spiritual sense of color. She launched her art career in the 1960s, set it aside for a while before resuming her artistic pursuits in Muncie in the early 1990s. Her paintings have been described as "impressionistic and textural".

She was included in the Indiana Waterways Project in 2002 (which culminated in a book), and her paintings have been in many juried exhibitions, including the Minnetrista Annual, the Richmond Art Museum Annual, the Indiana State Fair, The Women's Commission Art Exhibit, the Red-tail Conservancy Open Spaces Exhibit and the Hoosier Salon.

In 2003 Prim's first one-woman show opened at Maring-Hunt Library. Her work has been shown at other local venues like The Artist Within, Gordy's, The Blue Bottle, The Main Street Coffee Company, F B Fogg and ArtWorks.

Prim started painting as a child in Oklahoma and later took painting classes at a university near her home. After moving to Muncie, she put painting on the back burner for a while, until the 1990s when she decided to paint again. "I enrolled in painting classes at the Stan Nossett Art School, joined the Indiana Plein Air Painters and the Minnetrista Art Guild... I work with only a few brushes and a palette knife, and several tubes of red, yellow, and blue paint. Even so, I like my work to have a soft, gentle feeling." She works on a small scale, usually 16 by 20 inches, both manageable and intimate, "a scale people can relate to..."

Genny Gordy of Gordy's Fine Art and Framing said of Prim: "She has got to be the most awarded female African-American artist in Muncie. She is very important in this community."


Meet Margie Prim at the opening reception for her exhibit, January 3, 5 to 8 p.m., at GALLERY 308, 308 East Main Street, Muncie.

Gallery 308 is a 501(c)(3) community art gallery which exists to provide exhibition space for artists, encourage innovative work and serve the community as a cultural and educational resource. A new exhibit opens at the Gallery every First Thursday. Contributions to Gallery 308 are tax-deductible. For more information about gallery hours, volunteer and donor opportunities, please call 765-289-8575.

Holocaust Survivor Welcomed by Community

Marion Blumenthal Lazan, Holocaust survivor and co-author of Four Perfect Pebbles, came to Muncie to share her story of respect, tolerance, perseverance and hope. Thanks to The Community Foundation of Muncie & Delaware County, Inc. and the Altrusa Foundation, Marion was able to travel to Muncie and stay for two weeks. During that time, she spoke to over 2,000 area students. In the summer of 2007, the Indiana Department of Education passed a resolution that requires all school students to learn about the Holocaust before graduating high school. Mrs. Lazan also participated in two free public programs that allowed her to speak to an additional six hundred members of the community. "Marion's story touched the hearts and minds of everyone who met her, regardless of their age," noted Betty Brewer, Minnetrista President and CEO. "We are honored to have been able to introduce her to Central Indiana through the support of The Community Foundation and the Altrusa Foundation."


From the ages of 6 to 10 Marion Blumenthal Lazan was interred 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 book Four Perfect Pebbles recounts the dark days of the Holocaust and the power of the human spirit to overcome the worst of times. Signed copies of the book are available at The Center Shop at Minnetrista.


Minnetrista continues to host Anne Frank: A History for Today through January 20. This historical and 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.


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 about Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net. For more information about Marion Blumenthal Lazan, visit www.fourperfectpebbles.com.

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.

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.


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Cornerstone Center for the Arts Opens Registration for Classes

The Cornerstone Arts Program is excited to introduce its next series of classes, which start January 28 and continue until April 24. The Arts Program offers classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts.

Youth (K-8th Grade) classes include: Youth Dance, Youth Hip Hop, Youth Tap, Youth Art, Youth Ceramics, Group Piano, Ballet classes, Kindermusik(R), Youth Drama, Baby Sign Language, Art Exploration, and Early Art

8th Grade-Adult classes include: Hip Hop Aerobics, Cheerleading, Adult Hip Hop, Dance & Fitness, Belly Dance, Scrapbooking, Swing Dance, Drawing, Painting, Adult Ceramics, Jewelry Making with Polymer Clay, Jewelry Making with Beading, Handmade Books, Shakespeare Troupe, Creative Writing Workshop, and Basic Sign Language.

In addition, the Cornerstone Arts Program offers private instruction for all ages in the following areas: Drums, Guitar, Piano, Voice, Strings, Trumpet, Saxophone, and American Sign Language.

Register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

* What: Open registration for Fall Classes
* When: January 28 - April 24
* Where: Cornerstone Center for the Arts, 520 E. Main St. Muncie, IN 47305
* Who: Open to the public.

Call Cornerstone Center for the Arts 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.

A Comically Classical Christmas Cabaret

Muncie Civic's Main Street Studio Theatre will present A COMICALLY CLASSICAL CHRISTMAS CABARET Featuring the Music of PDQ BACH on Thursday, Friday & Saturday, December 20, 21 & 22 at 8:00pm. Performances will be in the Studio Theatre at 222 E. Main St. in Downtown Muncie. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for college and younger. Only 50 tickets will be available for each performance. Tickets may be purchased by calling 765-288-7529. Box office hours are Wednesday through Friday from 3:00-6:00pm and one hour prior to each performance.

A COMICALLY CLASSICAL CHRISTMAS CABARET is a collection of songs about or inspired by the holiday season, each with a unique comical twist. Most of the music will have the feel of classical music, although the words and performances will add a comic interpretation. Many of the songs are by PDQ Bach, also known as Professor Peter Schickele, and include his "A Consort of Christmas Carols: Throw the Yule Log On Uncle John, Oh Little Town of Hackensack and Good King Kong Looked Out." Also featured will be PDQ Bach's "Oedipus Tex." Other songs included in the program include Tom Lehrer's satirical "Christmas Carols" and other comical holiday tunes. The entire evening will be presented in the style of a classical chamber recital and seasonal refreshments will be available during intermission.

A COMICALLY CLASSICAL CHRISTMAS CABARET features performances by Darrin Murrell and Julie Barber, who also conceived and compiled material for the show, Marty Grubbs and Zack Fisk.

For tickets and information call 765-288-PLAY.

Weekly Downtown E-News 12/6/07

DOWNTOWN ANNOUNCEMENTS: Best wishes and many thanks to Tom Steiner, who has recently sold the Blue Bottle Coffee Shop. Please take the time to stop in and greet the new owner, Tom Green. Lots of luck to you both!

The Downtown promotional display at the Muncie Mall was installed on Sunday with the help of Jamaal Bell, Bob Hartley and Carey Hays. It looks very nice! Thanks to all the businesses who helped sponsor the promotion. The display is on the wall at the main mall entrance at Macy's, near Finish Line. The display will run at least through January.

The Downtown Deals coupon sheet is now available online at munciedowntown.com. Check out deals from CJ Alterations, Pazols Jewelry, Cassella's Kitchen, The Artist Within, Doc's Music Hall, Ink Solution, Morton's Pub & Grub, Poppy N Sons, Nuturing Touch Therapeutic Massage, and the Muncie Children's Museum.
Click here to download and print from your own computer, or pick up a printed sheet at the Downtown display at the Muncie Mall, or at select locations around Downtown Muncie.


DECEMBER EVENTS :

6th - Celebrate the arts in Downtown Muncie for extended hours this First Thursday, December 6th, from 5 to 9pm. Our many art galleries spotlight their exhibit openings on the first Thursday evenings of every month, with meet-the-artist receptions.

6th - MSO Chili Dinner at Artwork during First Thursday, December 6, from 5-8pm. Chili provided by Ivy Tech and Westminster Village. Presented by Muncie Symphony League in support of Muncie Symphony Orchestra. Tickets available by calling 765-285-5531.

6th - Mitchell Place Studio in downtown Muncie would like to invite you Thursday, December 6th at 5:00pm to this month's showcase of recent, supported student art and research projects in association with the Muncie Arts/Walk. This month's feature is... CUBES: Interactive Virtual Reality Media Browser. Be sure to stop by free of charge and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies at... Mitchell Place Studio 301 S. Walnut St. For more information on this and other IDIAA programs visit www.bsu.edu/cmd/mps.

7th - Muncie Children's Museum, friends and family fun night 3-7pm FREE. Visit www.munciechildrensmuseum.com for details.

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.

11th - 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. To make a reservation, call Brenda Brumfield at 751-9128 or email bbrumfield@muncie.com. Reservation deadline is December 7.

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 Children's Museum: Santa visits from 11-2pm. Visit www.munciechildrensmuseum.com for details.

15th - Muncie Ballet Studio presents The Children's Nutcracker Saturday, Dec. 15, 7:00pm and Sunday, Dec. 16, 4:00pm. A holiday classic and wonderful family holiday tradition. A perfect length for our younger audience. For tickets and information call 765-282-1480 or visit www.MuncieBallet.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 Children's Museum: Santa visits from 2-4pm. Visit www.munciechildrensmuseum.com for details.

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.

Dec. 26 - January 6th- Muncie Children's Museum Winter Break Program. Check website for details at /www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

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

Through December - Artworks Gallery presents Mary Ann Rahe's exhibit "Inspired by Nature," ffeatured 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. The exhibit "The Painters of Life and Light" continues through December 31, 2007.

Through December - Blue Bottle will exhibit the artwork of Jessica Maxwell during December.

Through January - Gordy Fine Art & Framing will host its annual Print Show, featuring twenty area artists. 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. 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.

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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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.

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First Thursday Student Showcase at Mitchell Place Studio

Mitchell Place Studio in downtown Muncie would like to invite you Thursday, December 6th at 5:00pm to this month's showcase of recent, supported student art and research projects in association with the Muncie Arts/Walk.

This month's feature is...

CUBES: Interactive Virtual Reality Media Browser

This project is an interactive 3-dimensional media browser built within a virtual reality authoring environment that allows a user to select media through the use of RFID tags. The project was produced in the immersive experience designed by a team of students participating in IDIAA's Immersion Seminar with additional help from students involved in the Digital Fabrication Insititute. It was awarded and Award of Excellence and a cash prize at the iDMAa Beyond Boundaries 2007 conference in Philadelphia.

Be sure to stop by free of charge and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies at...

Mitchell Place Studio
301 S. Walnut St.
Suite# 102

(765)896-9407

Contact Brian Carriger at bscarriger@bsu.edu

Book Signing at Danner's

Chris Wright, channel 13 chief meteorologist at Channel 13, who has written nine mystery books and three children's books will be present at a book signing of the new "Sisters In Crime" mystery anthology Racing Can Be Murder The signing will be at Danner's Books, Gifts, Yarn and Knitting Shop. December 8 from noon until 2pm.

Local authors, Tamara Phillips, an insurance adjuster, and Sherita Campbell, poet, freelance writer, have stories in the new anthology as two of the 14 authors in the book.

Phillips has written several non fiction articles for media magazines concerning television and radio communication. Campbell has her fourth short story published in this book.

Other authors present at the signing include Brenda Robertson Stewart, president of the Speed City chapter of Sisters in Crime. Stewart is a forensic artist specializing in facial reconstruction on skulls for identification purposes and the author of the Lettie Sue Wolfe mystery series. She has given several presentations in Muncie recently on this subject. She is also co-editor with Tony Perona of the anthology. Perona is the author of the Nick Bertetto mystery series. Wanda Lou Willis is a folklore historian specializing in Hoosier folk tales and history, who recently spoke about ghost stories at Carnegie Library in Muncie. Andrea Smith’s Chicago police detective has been featured in three published short stories and is president elect of Sisters in Crime.

Other authors in the book include: Tamera Huber is mystery author playwright, poet, and award-winning journalist. Sheila Boneham has won multiple awards for books and articles about dogs and cats. Judith Skillings is a mystery novelist, playwright, and a graduate of the Bertil-Roos race-driving school. Phil Dunlap is the author of historical/police procedural novels. P.J. Robertson is a sociologist and mystery writer. S.M. Harding is the author of several short stories. Lucy Coyle Schilling is a journalist. D.B. Reddick, is a nurse practitioner and a contributing editor to Shore magazine. Sheila Sowder works in advertising. Jaci Muzamel is a publicist and photographer. Dianna Catt is an instructor and post doctoral research fellow at IU School of Dentistry.

Sisters in Crime is an international group of women and men who are professional mystery writers or mystery enthusiasts formed 'to combat discrimination against women in the mystery field, educate publishers and the general public as to the inequalities in the treatment of female authors, and raise the level of awareness of their contribution to the field.'

Racing Can Be Murder is an anthology of 14 Indiana authors about murder and mayhem that happens either at the Indy 500 and at the practices, parties during and after the race. There are Snake Pit and Pole day stories. In addition to volunteer, galas, and grease pit stories that put you right there in the race day fun. There is even a short vignette on the Wright Brothers fly in during the race. Good stuff. Plus, a whole little venue of history about the 500, written by historian Willis. It is a breathtaking exciting addition to your collection of Indiana authors and events. Can be purchased at Danner's.

Some of the authors will discuss their writing and be available for book signings. The anthology is a money making project for the Carmel City chapter of “Sisters In Crime” to enable the organization to conduct mystery writing workshops and provide more guest speakers at the meetings. You may call ahead and reserve a book. They will be nice Christmas gifts for racing fans and mystery readers alike. You may call Danner's Books, Gifts, Yarn and Knitting Shop, 1765 288-1122 to pre-order or Sherita Campbell 765-289-9767 for more information.

Celebrate the Arts at First Thursday Downtown

Meet the Artists and Vote for the Best Decorated Windows at First Thursday in Downtown Muncie
Celebrate the arts in Downtown Muncie for extended hours this First Thursday, December 6th, from 5 to 9pm. Our many art galleries spotlight their exhibit openings on the first Thursday evenings of every month, with meet-the-artist receptions.

The Muncie Downtown Business Council (MDBC) is sponsoring a contest to select downtown storefronts that best demonstrate the Holiday spirit by way of decorations. Visitors to Downtown Muncie during First Thursday may vote for their favorite storefronts in three categories:

*
Most traditionally appointed storefront (i.e. a storefront that is grounded in traditional themes using traditional decorations)
*
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)
*
Most well-lit and/or media focused storefront (i.e. a storefront designed with lights or other media, such as electronics))

Ballots may be picked up or dropped off at any participating business that will be open during First Thursday. Prizes will be awarded to the top business in each category. Bring the family Downtown on this evening for a free and festive event. Visit www.munciedowntown.com for details.

Some of the gallery events (in alphabetical order by gallery) at the next First Thursday:


The Artist Within ~ 313 S Walnut Street ~ 765-289-7895

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.

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.



MSO Chili Dinner at Artworks

Artworks will host the 2007 MSO Chili Dinner during First Thursday, December 6, from 5-8pm.

Chili provided by Ivy Tech and Westminster Village.

Presented by Muncie Symphony League in support of Muncie Symphony Orchestra.

Tickets $5, available by calling 765-285-5531.



Artworks ~ 301 South Walnut Street

"The Painters of Life and Light" continues at Artworks Gallery through December 31, 2007.

Mary Ann Rahe's exhibit "Inspired by Nature" will be featured 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.

Artworks is an artist owned and operated sales gallery, featuring original works for sale by outstanding Indiana artists. Regular gallery hours are from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm.



Blue Bottle ~ 206 S. Walnut ~

Blue Bottle will exhibit the artwork of Jessica Maxwell during December.
Jessica Maxwell is a Muncie native, born and raised. Jessica grew up in a bi-racial family, the youngest of five children, she felt very fortunate to be raised by both her mother and father. Jessica, home schooled by her mother, was exposed to different cultures, and many forms of art.

"I found my love of art at the age of six, when my oldest brother (now deceased) and I, would draw Garfield cartoon characters. From those days, I have dedicated myself to perfecting my skill as a realism pencil artist. I have spent many years perfecting my own style, including at the age of 16 enrolling in the Art Instruction School of Minneapolis, Minnesota, where I later earned my degree, and finally adopted the style I have today."

"Most recently I have developed a love for photography as well as writing. I hope one day to own my own business offering custom portraits, custom designs, personal stylist, and interior design. Through all of this, my passion for art will forever remain in the forefront."



Gallery 308 ~ 308 E. Main Street ~ 765-289-8575



The nonprofit community art gallery is located at 308 East Main Street in downtown Muncie.

Gordy Fine Art & Framing ~ 224 E Main Street ~ 765-284-8422

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.

Gordy Fine Art and Framing is located at 224 East Main Street, next door to Civic Theatre. For more information call 765.284.8422 or visit www.gordyframing.com.





Mitchell Place Studio ~ 301 S Walnut

Institute for Digital Intermedia Arts & Animation Student Art & Research Showcase
Thursday December 6th, 5 p.m.

See monthly showcase of recent, supported student art and research projects in association with First Thursdays downtown. For more information on this and other IDIAA programs visit www.bsu.edu/cmd/mps.

Other downtown Muncie businesses may have art exhibits or special events during First Thursdays include:

~ Cortex Hair Salon, 112 W Jackson Street - 765-288-6685
~ David Dale Designs, Interior Designs & Fine Art Gallery, 421 S Walnut Street - 765-284-4987
~ FB Fogg, 418 E Main Street - 765-289-7464
~ Glitterati in the Rose Court on Charles Street
~ Minnetrista, 1200 N. Minnetrista Parkway - 765-282-4848

Additionally, all of Downtown's independently owned bars and restaurants will be open and ready to serve you. For more information, visit www.munciedowntown.com.

Please keep us informed of any upcoming events or exhibits in Downtown Muncie. Email details to info [at] munciedowntown.com.

Visitors Bureau Seeks Info on Outdoor Art

The Muncie Visitors Bureau is currently gathering information on outdoor art/sculpture for Muncie. If your facility has outdoor art, large or small of any kind, please contact the Visitors Bureau, or please let them know of any locations you may be aware of.

The Muncie Visitors Bureau has been collecting information on many areas of art in Muncie over the past summer. We realize the value of art to the community and its role in drawing the traveler to Muncie.

Response is required by December 14 to be included in their web site and printed materials.

Contact:
Shonda L. Kane
Convention & Marketing Sales Manager
Muncie Visitors Bureau
765-284-2700
800-568-6862
Let's have a ball in Muncie!

Art of Jessica Maxwell at Blue Bottle

Blue Bottle Coffee Shop will exhibit the artwork of Jessica Maxwell during the month of December. Jessica is a Muncie native, born and raised.

Jessica grew up in abi-racial family, the youngest of five children, she felt very fortunate to be raised by both her mother and father. Jessica, home schooled by
her mother, was exposed to different cultures, and many forms of art.

"I found my love of art at the age of six, when my oldest brother (now
deceased) and I, would draw Garfield cartoon characters. From those
days, I have dedicated myself to perfecting my skill as a realism pencil
artist. I have spent many years perfecting my own style, including at
the age of 16 enrolling in the Art Instruction School of Minneapolis,
Minnesota, where I later earned my degree, and finally adopted the style
I have today."

"Most recently I have developed a love for photography as well as
writing. I hope one day to own my own business offering custom
portraits, custom designs, personal stylist, and interior design.
Through all of this, my passion for art will forever remain in the
forefront."