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Friday, November 28, 2008

Weekly Downtown E-News 11-28-08

Shop "locally" this holiday season. Downtown's diverse neighborhood of independent store owners invites you to find something for everyone on your list in the heart of the city. Read more...

Celebrate the arts in Downtown Muncie this First Thursday, December 4th, from 5 to 8pm. Our many art galleries launch their monthly exhibits on the first Thursday evenings of every month, with meet-the-artist receptions. December's First Thursday is Downtown's official kickoff celebration, with carolers and storefront window decorating contest. Read more...

The Downtown Business Council will meet a week earlier than our regular meeting time, which falls during the big holiday week. The meeting will be next week on Wednesday, December 17th at 3pm in the Star Press building conference room. Elections will be held on the new Board of Directors to serve the next two-year term, so attendance at this meeting is important.

Plan your New Year's Eve celebration in Downtown Muncie, starting at 10:30pm with a candle-light walk from the courthouse to South Walnut St. where there will be a ball drop at midnight. Read more...

Read More Downtown News at MuncieDowntown.com

NOVEMBER EVENTS

November 28-30th - Muncie Civic Theatre presents "A Time for Christmas," a Broadway-style musical with a heartwarming message. The show will be at Muncie Civic Theatre, 216 E. Main St. in Downtown Muncie. Performance times are Thanksgiving weekend: Friday, Nov. 28th, and Saturday, Nov. 29th at 7:30 PM and Sunday, Nov. 30th at 2 PM.Read more...

November 29 - Minnetrista Minne-Trip: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth, 12-5:30pm. Take a trip to DeBrand Fine Chocolates in Fort Wayne.Registration deadline: Friday, November 21.

NOVEMBER ONGOING

November 6-30 - Michael Hoots "Turning Wood Into Objects d'Arte" at Artworks, Opening Reception: November 6, 2008 - 5:30pm to 8:30pm.

Through November - The Artist Within will host an exhibit and sale of works by the members of local organization "Creative Artists." An artists reception will be held from 5-8 pm, Thursday, November 6, 2007.

Through November - Watercolors by Jim Faulkner will be exhibited at Gordy Fine Art and Framing during the month of November. A reception will be held during the First Thursday on November 6, 2008, from 5 to 8 PM. The public is invited to attend and light refreshments will be served.

Through Dec. 6 - Mischievous Elf Tuesdays 4-5pm at Muncie Ballet Studio. Jumping, turning, crouching,and creating a sprightly elf is the goal....Theatre movement class directed by Arttacgo Luckett - participants will have great fun creating movements using several different styles of dance. The final creation will be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.Read more...

Through Dec. 6 - Sugar Plum Fairy Saturdays 9:30-10:30 Nov. 1 - Dec. 6th at Muncie Ballet Studio. Tip toes, turning, twirling and creating the sweetest fairy is the goal... Theatre movement class directed by Lisa Love - participants will create a sparkle and shine fairy character dance to be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

Through December 13 - Cornerstone Arts Program classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts, including visual arts, dance and music. Register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through January 4 - Snakes, Rattles and Holes at Minnetrista, a walk-through replica of a snake's skeleton that utilizes videos, artifacts, text panels and interactive elements to teach visitors about snakes of the Midwestern United States.

Through January 9 - Earthworks at Minnetrista. Native American cultures in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia constructed geometric and animal-shaped earth works that often rivaled Stonehenge in their astronomical accuracy. See virtual reconstructions of these works from 39 sites.

Every Monday - Jazz at the Fickle Peach features Charlie Owen on drums, Paul Rhine on double-bass and flute, and Phil Cooley on Piano. They perform every Monday night from 9 to 11.

DECEMBER EVENTS

December 4 - First Thursday / Holiday Kickoff in Downtown Muncie from 5 to 9pm. Our many art galleries launch their monthly exhibits on the first Thursday evenings of every month, with meet-the-artist receptions. December's First Thursday is Downtown's official kickoff celebration, with carolers and storefront window decorating contest.

December 4 - Dale Potts will give a short talk on the history of bubble lights at 7pm at Gallery 308 as part of the "The Art & Craft of Christmas" exhibit.

December 5 - December's Friends and Family Fun Night at the Muncie Children's Museum will be centered around Ball State University's Theatre Education Department's, Stone Soup Players! Come and enjoy a fun evening of activities and entertainment on Friday, December 5, 2008, from 3-7pm. Admission is free.

December 5 & 6 - Polar Express returns to Wysor Street Depot from 6 to 9pm on Friday and Saturday. Visit with Santa Claus and listen to readings of The Polar Express.

December 5 & 6 - Join Minnetrista for an annual holiday celebration - Enchanted Luminaria Walk at Minnetrista will take place December 5 & 6, from 6 -9 p.m. Visitors will enjoy luminaries, holiday decorations and music, carriage rides, free exhibits, and a live reindeer. Admission is free, so bring the whole family!

December 5-7th - Muncie Civic Teatre presents "The Sound of Music." Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm and the Sunday matinee is at 2:00pm. Call 288.PLAY for tickets or info.

December 10 - Gingerbread House Workshop at Minnetrista. Bring your imagination and we'll supply the gingerbread, decorations and instructions. You'll leave with a sweet creation that's sure to be a great centerpiece for your family holiday gatherings. Registration deadline: Wednesday, December 10.

December 11-13th - Muncie Civic Teatre presents "The Sound of Music." Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm and the Sunday matinee is at 2:00pm. Call 288.PLAY for tickets or info.

December 14 - Cornerstone Celebration. Join Cornerstone Center for the Arts on Sunday, December 14th from 2:00-5:00 pm to celebrate our successful fall session. All twelve week and six week classes will be spotlighted at this event.

December 15 - Winter Market at Minnetrista, 9 a.m. - noon. Shop for delicious local meats, cheeses, eggs, honey, winter produce, Christmas wreaths, coffee and more at the Winter Market at Minnetrista.

December 17 - Downtown Business Council meets at 3pm at the Star Press building conference room. Voting on the Board of Directors will take place, all members are strongly urged to attend this meeting.

December 19-20th - Muncie Civic Teatre presents "The Sound of Music." Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm and the Sunday matinee is at 2:00pm. Call 288.PLAY for tickets or info.

December 20 - Gingerbread House Workshops at Minnetrista, 10am-12pm and 1-3pm. Two great chances for your family to make a gingerbread house. Visit minnetrista.net for more info.

December 31 - New Year's Eve celebration in Downtown Muncie, starting at 10:30pm with a candle-light walk from the courthouse to South Walnut St. where there will be a ball drop at midnight.

DECEMBER ONGOING

Through Dec. 6 - Mischievous Elf Tuesdays 4-5pm at Muncie Ballet Studio. Jumping, turning, crouching,and creating a sprightly elf is the goal....Theatre movement class directed by Arttacgo Luckett - participants will have great fun creating movements using several different styles of dance. The final creation will be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

Through Dec. 6 - Sugar Plum Fairy Saturdays 9:30-10:30 Nov. 1 - Dec. 6th at Muncie Ballet Studio. Tip toes, turning, twirling and creating the sweetest fairy is the goal... Theatre movement class directed by Lisa Love - participants will create a sparkle and shine fairy character dance to be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

Through December 12 - "The Art & Craft of Christmas" at Gallery 308, a collection of holiday ornaments from ornament collectors Hal Caldwell, Dale Potts, Martin George and Joshua Burton. The public is welcome; admission is free.

Through December 13 - Cornerstone Arts Program classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts, including visual arts, dance and music. Register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through December - The Artist Within will exhibit "De la France et de l'Espagne" by Suzanne Marie Lambert during December. There will be an opening reception and live music by Bryce Taylor during First Thursday, Dec.4th from 5-9pm. The reception is free and the public is invited.

Through December - Cartoonist and illustrator Dan Wright will be the featured artist during December at Artworks. An opening reception will be held during First Thursday, Dec. 4, from 5 to 8pm.

Through December - Watercolorist Brian Gordy will exhibit Turtle Prints at Gordy Fine Art & Framing. An opening reception will be held during the monthly First Thursday event, from 5 to 9 PM. Refreshments will be served and public is invited to attend.

Through December - $1 off general admission at the Muncie Children's Museum when you bring a non-perishable food item for the Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana, throughout the entire month of December.

Through January 4 - Snakes, Rattles and Holes at Minnetrista, a walk-through replica of a snake's skeleton that utilizes videos, artifacts, text panels and interactive elements to teach visitors about snakes of the Midwestern United States.

Through January 9 - Earthworks at Minnetrista. Native American cultures in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia constructed geometric and animal-shaped earth works that often rivaled Stonehenge in their astronomical accuracy. See virtual reconstructions of these works from 39 sites.

Every Monday - Jazz at the Fickle Peach features Charlie Owen on drums, Paul Rhine on double-bass and flute, and Phil Cooley on Piano. They perform every Monday night from 9 to 11.

LOOKING AHEAD...

Through January 4 - Snakes, Rattles and Holes at Minnetrista, a walk-through replica of a snake's skeleton that utilizes videos, artifacts, text panels and interactive elements to teach visitors about snakes of the Midwestern United States.

Through January 9 - Earthworks at Minnetrista. Native American cultures in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia constructed geometric and animal-shaped earth works that often rivaled Stonehenge in their astronomical accuracy. See virtual reconstructions of these works from 39 sites.


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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Muncie Children's Museum Collecting Non-Perishable Food for Second Harvest Food Bank

Help spread holiday cheer by bringing a non-perishable food item to the Muncie Children's Museum for the Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana, and receive $1 off general admission, per person, throughout the entire month of December.

The Muncie Children's Museum has teamed up with Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana to collect food items for people in and around East Central Indiana. To help, bring a non-perishable food item to the Museum, and receive $1 off general admission, per person, throughout the month of December. This offer is not valid with any other Muncie Children's Museum coupon. Non-perishable items such as canned meats, vegetables, fruit, peanut butter, cereal rice, chicken and tuna are preferred.

Second Harvest Food Bank relies on private and foundation support to fund our hunger-relief efforts in east central Indiana. Second Harvest provides emergency food to more than 7,900 people each week by collecting millions of dollars worth of food a year and distributing to families and individuals in need through emergency food pantries, shelters, and kitchens.

For more information on the Muncie Children's Museum's food drive for Second Harvest Food Bank, call (765) 286-1660 or visit www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

The Muncie Children's Museum provides hands-on, educational and innovative learning. The Museum is located at 515 S. High St. Museum hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays and 1-5 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $6 a person ages 1-100.


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Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Polar Express Returns to Wysor Street Depot

Mr. Blue, Wish the Fish and Kohl’s are proud to present a magical evening at the Historic Wysor Street Depot with Polar Express.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will make their way to the Historic Wysor Street Depot December 5th and December 6th 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. Sip hot chocolate as you listen to carolers share the songs of the season.

You can also visit Ron Orebaugh’s Grand Grilling to Go. Ron will be set-up in the parking lot of the Depot. Pictures and food available at posted prices.

Luminaries and lights will decorate the grounds of the Depot as train whistles sound in the distance. Polar Express is a FREE event.


Special guest readers at the Depot for the evenings include:

Friday, December 5th

6:00 pm Jackie Siefker, Muncie Boys & Girls Club

6:30 pm Derrick Jamerson, Longfellow Elementary

7:00 pm Scott Blakely, Northview Elementary

7:30 pm Kathy Brinson, St. Lawrence Elementary

8:00 pm Gene Williams, The Star Press

8:30 pm Mary Dollison, Motivate our Minds


Saturday, December 6th

6:00 pm Lori Clementi, Wes-Del Elementary

6:30 pm Steve Brown, WERK Morning Show

7:00 pm Myra Schull, Royerton Elementary

7:30 pm Chris Conley, Albany Elementary

8:00 pm Roni Johnson, Community Foundation

8:30 pm Steve Stark, Elem. Education Major/BSU

MITS will provide free trolleys both nights between Polar Express, Minnetrista’s Luminaria, and Scheidler Apartments to make sure you don’t miss any of the attractions. Also visit the Muncie Children’s Museum free on Friday from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

For additional information, contact Angie Pool, Cardinal Greenway, at (765) 287-0399 or by email at angie@cardinalgreenways.org.


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New Year's Eve Celebration Downtown

Downtown Development Partnership, MSD Recycling and Education Program and The PhyXTGears Robotics Team will host a Community New Year's Eve Celebration with a "Times Square" type ball drop and fireworks at midnight.

Festivities will begin December 31st at 10:30pm on the Delaware County Courthouse Square with a candlelight walk to the event area in the 400 block of Walnut St. Everyone is invited to bring a candle or flashlight and join us as we celebrate the strength of community in 2009.

The event will feature live music from Central High School Students: CHS Jazz followed by the party sounds of Doc Peterson, Dunn and Simmons. Warm tents, kid's activities, fire barrels, a new year wish tree, and projection of NYC's Time Square celebration will keep everyone entertained as we gear up for the big ball drop and fireworks at midnight! This is an alcohol free, family friendly event.

Our local "robotics team" PhyXTGears, composed of high school students from all schools in Muncie and Delaware have designed a New Year's Eve ball, to be lowered from a giant crane at midnight. Check this link for more info about the team and track their progress as they build the ball. http://muncierobots.iweb.bsu.edu/gallery/2009/NYE%20Ball%20Project%202008.htm l

Fireworks will be funded entirely through merchant and community sponsorship. The downtown merchants have contributed nearly half of the money needed for the fireworks display. A new website, designed and launched by Ty Morton, has been established to accept community contributions for the fireworks fund. If you would like to make a donation to this effort, please visit www.LightUpMuncie.org

The next year promises be full of new beginnings locally, regionally and nationally. We hope this Downtown celebration will give all of us a way to stand united in the heart of the city for a wonderful and productive New Year.



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Monday, November 24, 2008

December's First Thursday is Downtown's Holiday Kickoff

Shop "locally" this holiday season. Our diverse neighborhood of independent store owners invites you to find something for everyone on your list in the heart of the city.

Downtown art galleries, retailers and restaurants invite you to kick off your holiday shopping season with "First Thursday" December 4th from 5pm-9pm. Trolley service will be available all evening long.

All Downtown galleries will feature a new exhibit and shopping opportunities.

Santa arrives at "Toys Forever Hobby and Models" at 5pm. Jacks Camera will provide a photo opportunity for your little ones with ole St. Nick. Christmas caroler and refreshments will abound!

Want to be a part of spreading holiday cheer as a caroler? Gather your friends, families and neighbors and join in the fun. No need to sign up...just come on out!

Need a unique gift item not to be found anywhere else? Check out our multiple art galleries and one of a kind gift shops.

Need the gift of a fabulous experience? Downtown businesses offer theater tickets, art, photo, dance and exercise classes, paint your own pottery, museum memberships, tickets for national musical acts...so many ways to give the gift of fun!

Need a little something for those who love to eat? Some of the finest dining experiences in Muncie are awaiting you Downtown.

Specialty experiences, gourmet and organic food items, fine kitchenware, toys, models, hobbies, bikes, glassware, art work, electronics, fine and faux jewelry, framing, skateboards, one of a kind clothing items and so much more can all be found in your Downtown!

Remember...If you are gonna DO IT...do it Downtown! See you there!


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Sunday, November 23, 2008

The Sound of Music at Muncie Civic Theatre

Muncie Civic Teatre presents "The Sound of Music." Performances are December 5th-7th, 11th-13th, and 19th-20th. Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm and the Sunday matinee is at 2:00pm.

This classic story features music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. It was the last musical ever written by Rogers & Hammerstein and is coming to Muncie Civic Theatre as a fantastic holiday theatre experience.

The Sound of Music is set in 1930's Austria, where a young woman named Maria is failing miserably in her attempts to become a nun. When the Navy captain Georg von Trapp writes to the convent asking for a governess that can handle his seven mischievous children, Maria is given the task. When Maria arrives, she is initially met with hostility and skepticism, but her kindness, understanding, and sense of fun soon draws the children to her and brings some much-needed joy into all their lives - including the Captain's.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for college students and younger. Call 288.PLAY to purchase your tickets or stop by the Box Office Tuesday-Friday from Noon-6:00pm at 216 E. Main Street in Muncie.

Go online to www.munciecivic.org for complete season information.

"The Art and Craft of Christmas" at Gallery 308

Looking for something truly unique to get you in the holiday spirit? How about taking a stroll down East Main Street in Muncie on First Thursday (December 4)? Stop in at Gallery 308 at 308 East Main at 7 p.m. for the opening of a new exhibition, "The Art & Craft of Christmas."

Thanks to the generosity of ornament collectors Hal Caldwell, Dale Potts, Martin George and Joshua Burton, an amazing display of holiday ornaments will amaze you. "It is our Christmas card to the community," says Gallery Board president Martin George, whose contribution to the exhibit is a large tree covered by numerous blown-glass ornaments, mostly of German and Eastern European origin.

See 200 nutcrackers from Hal Caldwell's collection, along with a vintage silver tree from the Sixties, complete with a rotating color wheel, donated for the exhibit by another collector, Josh Burton. Dale Potts' collection of bubble lights dating from the Second World War is also on display.

At 7 p.m. in the Gallery's Founders Room, Potts will give a short talk on the history of bubble lights.

The exhibit continues through December 12. The public is welcome; admission is free.

Gallery 308 is a non-profit art gallery located at 308 East Main, Muncie. Donations to the Gallery are tax deductible. For information about volunteer opportunities and Gallery hours, call 765-289-8575.


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Friday, November 21, 2008

Enchanted Luminaria Walk at Minnetrista

Join Minnetrista for an annual holiday celebration - Enchanted Luminaria Walk at Minnetrista will take place December 5 & 6, from 6 -9 p.m. Admission is free, so bring the whole family!

Visitors will enjoy luminaries, holiday decorations and music, carriage rides, free exhibits, and a live reindeer! Be sure to check out a special performance of A Christmas Carol Unscripted, an improvised version of Charles Dickens' holiday classic, by Comedy Sportz from 7-8 p.m. There will also be holiday shopping at the Minnetrista shops featuring great gift ideas, works by local artists, specialty foods, educational toys and much more! Stop by the Orchard Shop to pre-order your gift baskets at 20% off.

Other activities will include dance groups from Premiere Dance Center, puppet shows, gingerbread cookie bars 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.

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.


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Thursday, November 20, 2008

Turtle Prints on Exhbit at Gordy's Through January

Watercolorist Brian Gordy has been painting local turtles for several years. What began as a curiosity about the health of Delaware County rivers and wetlands turned into a large body of work documenting the various terrapin communities and their habits, interactions and even estimated ages. From the riverbanks, Gordy was able to determine that not only were the turtle populations healthy, but many of them had survived more turbulent times, as evidenced by their huge sizes. As an artist, he admired the flat and domed shells, the subtle skin colorations and the way light played off the various planes of the prehistoric-looking creatures' backs.

"Turtles hold my attention and are seductive subjects for watercolor paintings. Forced to sit quietly, least they scatter, I've been amazed to see the formations they create. I simply capture moments that have certain elements - a variety of textures, strong lights and darks, interesting foreground/background play and sometimes, a sense of humor, " offers the painter. "Recently I came upon a pair of stacked turtles. Unusual, because they were simply sunning themselves, and stayed stacked while I snapped image after image of them."

Recently recognized as an "Indiana Artisan," Gordy continues to paint the wet world of the turtle and has a new website in the works to share his paintings and giclees with patrons from outside his Muncie studio and combination gallery/frame shop. For local art and turtle appreciators, he will exhibit thirty five different scenes and groupings at Gordy Fine Art and Framing for the holiday season. An opening reception will be held during the monthly First Thursday event, from 5 to 9 PM. Refreshments will be served and public is invited to attend.

Gordy Fine Art and Framing Company is located at 224 East Main Street in downtown Muncie. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5:30 PM and Saturday, 9 to 3. The Turtle Exhibit will be held through January 31, 2009. For more information call 765-284-8422 or visit www.gordyframing.com.



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Weekly Downtown E-News 11-20-08

MuncieDowntown.com has a new mobile site... get the day's events, latest news and quick access to our downtown business directory. Go to funcie.mobi on your cell phone or mobile device, or text FUNCIE to 41411 to have a link sent to you.

6th Annual Wine Dinner and Art Auction at Vera Mae's, to benefit A.R.F. (Animal Rescue Fund) and Gallery 308. Five course wine dinner with scrumptious fare by Vera Mae'sRead More Downtown News at MuncieDowntown.com

NOVEMBER EVENTS

November 20 - Aerosol artist Will Britton will talk about his inspiration, motivation, and give a short demonstration about how he does what he does at Gallery 308, 7pm. The program is free, and light refreshments will be provided.

November 20-22nd - Muncie Civic's Main Steet Studio Theatre is proud to present Thornton Wilder's The Skin of Our Teeth. Performances are at 8:00pm for Thursday-Saturday performances and 2:00pm for the Sunday matinee. Call 288.PLAY for tickets.

November 21 - 6th Annual Wine Dinner and Art Auction at Vera Mae's, to benefit A.R.F. (Animal Rescue Fund) and Gallery 308. Two-week auction artwork preview exhibit begins during First Thursday, Nov. 6.

November 21 - Micah Dalton & Ellery at The Living Room, show starts at 8:30. www.thelivingroommuncie.com.

November 22 - Candy Cane Lane at Cornerstone Center for the Arts, 1-3:30pm. Cost: Free and open to the public.Cornerstone 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 Advanced Dental Care, A Bright Smile Toy Drive.

November 22 - Gingerbread House Contest at Minnetrista, in the following categories: Amateur, Teen, Children, and Group. The winning entries will be displayed at Minnetrista November 28- December 7.

November 22 - The Artist Within turns four this month! To thank you for your support the past three years, stop by Saturday, November 22nd for refreshments and help us celebrate with a $4 Studio Fee, door prizes and specials all day!

November 22 - Jazz Alive at Vera Mae's Bistro, with Brent Gallaher, Art Gore, Frank Puzzullo and Joey Kelsey. Two shows at 7 and 8:30pm.

November 22 - Music Before the Feast at Centerstage, 8pm. featuring Deb Townsend, Doc Warner, Chet O'Keefe, The GOAT, Pray For Mojo. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Action for Animals.

November 22 - The Real Food, Real Indiana Expo will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 22, at Minnetrista, sponsored by Indiana Foodways Alliance. Taste, savor, and buy some of the best locally made Indiana food, including cheeses, salsas, honey, candy, baked goods, wines, beers, and much, much more. For more information, go to www.indianafoodways.com.

November 27 - Annual Turkey Trot, a non-competitive run and walk on the Cardinal Greenway Thanksgiving morning. The event offers a variety of distances, refreshments, and family time. Registration opens 7:30a.m., Walk/Run begins 8:00 a.m.

November 29 - Minnetrista Minne-Trip: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth, 12-5:30pm. Take a trip to DeBrand Fine Chocolates in Fort Wayne.Registration deadline: Friday, November 21.

NOVEMBER ONGOING

November 6-21 - Gallery 308 Annual Wine Dinner & Art Auction Advance Preview - works for auction will be on display in the gallery from First Thursday, Nov. 6 through the Annual Wine Dinner & Art Auction event on November 21.

November 6-30 - Michael Hoots "Turning Wood Into Objects d'Arte" at Artworks, Opening Reception: November 6, 2008 - 5:30pm to 8:30pm.

Through November - The Artist Within will host an exhibit and sale of works by the members of local organization "Creative Artists." An artists reception will be held from 5-8 pm, Thursday, November 6, 2007.

Through November - Watercolors by Jim Faulkner will be exhibited at Gordy Fine Art and Framing during the month of November. A reception will be held during the First Thursday on November 6, 2008, from 5 to 8 PM. The public is invited to attend and light refreshments will be served.

Through Dec. 6 - Mischievous Elf Tuesdays 4-5pm at Muncie Ballet Studio. Jumping, turning, crouching,and creating a sprightly elf is the goal....Theatre movement class directed by Arttacgo Luckett - participants will have great fun creating movements using several different styles of dance. The final creation will be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

Through Dec. 6 - Sugar Plum Fairy Saturdays 9:30-10:30 Nov. 1 - Dec. 6th at Muncie Ballet Studio. Tip toes, turning, twirling and creating the sweetest fairy is the goal... Theatre movement class directed by Lisa Love - participants will create a sparkle and shine fairy character dance to be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

Through December 13 - Cornerstone Arts Program classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts, including visual arts, dance and music. Register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through January 4 - Snakes, Rattles and Holes at Minnetrista, a walk-through replica of a snake's skeleton that utilizes videos, artifacts, text panels and interactive elements to teach visitors about snakes of the Midwestern United States.

Through January 9 - Earthworks at Minnetrista. Native American cultures in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia constructed geometric and animal-shaped earth works that often rivaled Stonehenge in their astronomical accuracy. See virtual reconstructions of these works from 39 sites.

Every Monday - Jazz at the Fickle Peach features Charlie Owen on drums, Paul Rhine on double-bass and flute, and Phil Cooley on Piano. They perform every Monday night from 9 to 11.

DECEMBER EVENTS

December 10 - Gingerbread House Workshop at Minnetrista. Bring your imagination and we'll supply the gingerbread, decorations and instructions. You'll leave with a sweet creation that's sure to be a great centerpiece for your family holiday gatherings. Registration deadline: Wednesday, December 10.

December 14 - Cornerstone Celebration. Join Cornerstone Center for the Arts on Sunday, December 14th from 2:00-5:00 pm to celebrate our successful fall session. All twelve week and six week classes will be spotlighted at this event.

December 15 - Winter Market at Minnetrista, 9 a.m. - noon. Shop for delicious local meats, cheeses, eggs, honey, winter produce, Christmas wreaths, coffee and more at the Winter Market at Minnetrista.

December 17 - Downtown Business Council meets at 3pm at the Star Press building conference room. Voting on the Board of Directors will take place, all members are strongly urged to attend this meeting.

December 20 - Gingerbread House Workshops at Minnetrista, 10am-12pm and 1-3pm. Two great chances for your family to make a gingerbread house. Visit minnetrista.net for more info.

DECEMBER ONGOING

Through December - The Artist Within will exhibit "De la France et de l'Espagne" by Suzanne Marie Lambert during December. There will be an opening reception and live music by Bryce Taylor during First Thursday, Dec.4th from 5-9pm. The reception is free and the public is invited.

Through December - Cartoonist and illustrator Dan Wright will be the featured artist during December at Artworks. An opening reception will be held during First Thursday, Dec. 4, from 5 to 8pm.

Through Dec. 6 - Mischievous Elf Tuesdays 4-5pm at Muncie Ballet Studio. Jumping, turning, crouching,and creating a sprightly elf is the goal....Theatre movement class directed by Arttacgo Luckett - participants will have great fun creating movements using several different styles of dance. The final creation will be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

Through Dec. 6 - Sugar Plum Fairy Saturdays 9:30-10:30 Nov. 1 - Dec. 6th at Muncie Ballet Studio. Tip toes, turning, twirling and creating the sweetest fairy is the goal... Theatre movement class directed by Lisa Love - participants will create a sparkle and shine fairy character dance to be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

Through December 13 - Cornerstone Arts Program classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts, including visual arts, dance and music. Register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through January 4 - Snakes, Rattles and Holes at Minnetrista, a walk-through replica of a snake's skeleton that utilizes videos, artifacts, text panels and interactive elements to teach visitors about snakes of the Midwestern United States.

Through January 9 - Earthworks at Minnetrista. Native American cultures in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia constructed geometric and animal-shaped earth works that often rivaled Stonehenge in their astronomical accuracy. See virtual reconstructions of these works from 39 sites.

Every Monday - Jazz at the Fickle Peach features Charlie Owen on drums, Paul Rhine on double-bass and flute, and Phil Cooley on Piano. They perform every Monday night from 9 to 11.


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"A Time for Christmas" at Muncie Civic Theatre

Muncie Civic Theatre presents "A Time for Christmas," a Broadway-style musical with a heartwarming message. The show will be at Muncie Civic Theatre, 216 E. Main St. in Downtown Muncie. Performance times are Thanksgiving weekend: Friday, Nov. 28th, and Saturday, Nov. 29th at 7:30 PM and Sunday, Nov. 30th at 2 PM.

In the tradition of Dickens' A Christmas Carol, a modern day Scrooge-like work-a-holic, Bill, learns to open his heart to the season by being guided on a mystical journey to see how Christmases through history were celebrated.

The journey starts in Bethlehem, travels to a medieval castle, then to Puritan England, followed by a Victorian orphanage, and ending in a quick musical tour of Christmases through decades of the 20th century. Bill is then given the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a single mother and daughter who are spending their first Christmas alone and he must choose between his old self-centered ways and the risk of opening his heart to love.

A Time for Christmas features a cast of 50 people of all ages, including 20 children. There will be a live 13-piece orchestra and it's a great entertainment option for the whole family to enjoy.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Call 288-PLAY to purchase tickets or stop by the Box Office Tuesday-Friday from Noon-6:00pm. Seating is by general admission and tickets are going fast with one performance nearly sold out.

Directed by Laura Williamson and Musical Direction by Michael Williamson.

Go online to www.munciecivic.org for complete season information.


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Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Suzanne Marie Lambert Exhibit "De la France et de l'Espagne" at The Artist Within

The Artist Within will feature an exhibit by Suzanne Marie Lambert titled "De la France et de l'Espagne" during December. There will be an opening reception during First Thursday, Dec.4th from 5-9pm. There will also be live music by Bryce Taylor. The reception is free and the public is invited.

Suzanne Marie Lambert splits her time between Europe and the US. She works from her 2 studios, one located in Cincinnati where she resides with her son Watts Dietrich, the other in Southwestern France. She works with mixedmedia on canvas and paper. Her work is abstract and contemporary.

In the 1970's she studied ceramics and sculpture, metal crafting and welding. She is self taught in painting, drawing and photography. Lambert studied classical ballet at Jordan College of Music at Butler University 1972-1975. She attended Indiana University 1981-1984, studying modern dance, psychology, specializing in sports psychology.

In 2001 she was invited by Miami University of Oxford, Ohio to teach abstract painting as a guest session artist.

In 2002 she worked in the Motion Picture Film Industry on the Jim Amatulli film, ‘Artworks’. Lambert worked on location during the filming of the movie; along with some art consulting, her paintings were used as those of the lead character,Emma, played by Virginia Madsen.

Although her formal education is other than painting, sculpture, and photography, it is in these fields of art where her passion resides. With her love of photography, she built her own dark room when she was 18 years old. She began drawing and painting at the age of 3 and has continued to become a working artist.Lambert exhibits nationally and internationally. Her work is collected privately and corporately. She is available for commission work and for design consultation.

“My intention is to visually demonstrate thru color, tone, and composition the energy and underlying movement within All of life. Energy of life is evident to me; I wish to bring it to the attention of the viewer, to enhance perception, to lift the soul. I wish to express the beauty which I see and feel in this adventure we call ‘Life’. To move beyond limitation, expressing movement, to find a freedom beyond rational procedure… an execution of genuine activity.”



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Monday, November 17, 2008

Artworks to Spotlight Cartoonist and Illustrator Dan Wright

Cartoonist and illustrator Dan Wright will be the featured artist during December at Artworks. An opening reception will be held during First Thursday, Dec. 4, from 5 to 8pm.

Dan Wright has been a working cartoonist and illustrator for over 400 years and attributes his great longevity to obscurity and a propensity for stretching the truth.

Dan was raised in Muncie and barely graduated from Muncie Southside High School where he was repeatedly sent to the dean for artistic differences. After serving three years in the U.S. Army, Dan attended the Herron School of Art and went on to become an award-winning graphic designer, illustrator and one of Muncie's three nationally syndicated cartoonists.

His strip "Wildwood", which he co-wrote with childhood friend and fellow Muncie native, Tom Spurgeon, ran in about 80 papers from 1998 through 2003.

For the past few years, in addition to co-writing and producing "Rustle the Leaf", an online, environmentally themed newspaper-style comic strip, Dan has studied storytelling and has finished the manuscript for his first children's picture book "Jaboo"

After a 23 year absence, Dan has moved back to Muncie because he likes how lived in the place looks.

At his Opening Reception on December 4, 2008 at ArtWorks Dan will read "Jaboo" in its entirety. Dan will also have many of his comic strips on exhibition in the gallery.



Artworks Gallery is a non-profit cooperative.



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Friday, November 14, 2008

Weekly Downtown E-News 11-13-08

Downtown Business Council will meet next Wednesday, November 19th. Please take note, this meeting is a week early, due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Nominations are being accepted for the Board of Directors, which has three openings for the next term. Names will be collected at next week's meeting, and voting will take place in December's meeting on Dec. 17th. Please take a few minutes to answer this 10-question survey about Downtown Muncie and the Business Council.


MuncieDowntown.com has a new website design, click here to see it
. We've also launched a mobile version of the website. From your cell phone or mobile device, go to funcie.mobi to find business directory listings, downtown events, driving directions and more.

Belated thanks to Ball Bearings and its staff members Jenny Pyle, Kevin Mealy and Alivia Bryak, for their nice presentation about Downtown Muncie, spotlighting The Living Room, the Artist Within, and the Muncie Children's Museum. Click Here to see it.

Harvest Moon Film Festival: A Gathering of Films and Filmmakers Celebrating the Midwest starts this evening at 6pm with a Gala Dinner at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Click here for details and the event schedule.


NOVEMBER EVENTS

November 13 - 15th - The second annual Harvest Moon Film Festival will take place November 13th -15th in downtown Muncie with film screenings, workshops and more.

November 13 - The Living Room will host an art show, featuring art from several Taylor University students. The show begins at 7pm. Free admission.

November 14 - Andy Davis, Dave Elwert and Seth Philpott at The Living Room, show starts at 8:30. www.thelivingroommuncie.com.

November 14 - Covert Operations at Doc's Music Hall. See www.docsmusichall.com for details.

November 14 - 16 - Muncie Civic's Main Steet Studio Theatre is proud to present Thornton Wilder's The Skin of Our Teeth. Performances are at 8:00pm for Thursday-Saturday performances and 2:00pm for the Sunday matinee. Call 288.PLAY for tickets.

November 15 - Cardinal Greenway's 15th Anniversary celebration continues with Write Your Own Story for a Healthier Life at 10:00 am. Lori Byers from Ball State Universityexplains how we have the power to improve our health based on the story and script we "write" for ourselves. Learn how to develop a pro-active plan for living a healthier life.

November 15 - Cyberchase(TM) Family Fun Day at Minnetrista, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Meet Harry from the PBS series, Cyberchase. Explore the exhibit. Put your math skills to the test to chase down the answers to some tricky mathematical mysteries. Price: FREE!

November 15 - Santa at Doc's Music Hall. See www.docsmusichall.com for details.

November 18 - "For Your Eyes Only" is the theme for the Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting at 5:30pm at the Horizon Convention Center. RSVP Deadline is November 14.

November 19 - PBS Program Club at Minnetrista, 4pm. Watch and discuss "Ride Along the Lincoln Highway." Price: FREE; but registration is requested.

November 20-22nd - Muncie Civic's Main Steet Studio Theatre is proud to present Thornton Wilder's The Skin of Our Teeth. Performances are at 8:00pm for Thursday-Saturday performances and 2:00pm for the Sunday matinee. Call 288.PLAY for tickets.

November 21 - 6th Annual Wine Dinner and Art Auction at Vera Mae's, to benefit A.R.F. (Animal Rescue Fund) and Gallery 308. Two-week auction artwork preview exhibit begins during First Thursday, Nov. 6. Read more...

November 21 - Micah Dalton & Ellery at The Living Room, show starts at 8:30. www.thelivingroommuncie.com.

November 22 - Candy Cane Lane at Cornerstone Center for the Arts, 1-3:30pm. Cost: Free and open to the public.Cornerstone 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 Advanced Dental Care, A Bright Smile Toy Drive.

November 22 - Gingerbread House Contest at Minnetrista, in the following categories: Amateur, Teen, Children, and Group. The winning entries will be displayed at Minnetrista November 28- December 7.

November 22 - The Artist Within turns four this month! To thank you for your support the past three years, stop by Saturday, November 22nd for refreshments and help us celebrate with a $4 Studio Fee, door prizes and specials all day!

November 22 - Jazz Alive at Vera Mae's Bistro, with Brent Gallaher, Art gore, Frank Puzzullo and Joey Kelsey. Two shows at 7 and 8:30pm.

November 22 - Music Before the Feast at Centerstage, 8pm. featuring Deb Townsend, Doc Warner, Chet O'Keefe, The GOAT, Pray For Mojo. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Action for Animals.

November 27 - Annual Turkey Trot, a non-competitive run and walk on the Cardinal Greenway Thanksgiving morning. The event offers a variety of distances, refreshments, and family time. Registration opens 7:30a.m., Walk/Run begins 8:00 a.m.

November 29 - Minnetrista Minne-Trip: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth, 12-5:30pm. Take a trip to DeBrand Fine Chocolates in Fort Wayne.Registration deadline: Friday, November 21.

NOVEMBER ONGOING

November 6-21 - Gallery 308 Annual Wine Dinner & Art Auction Advance Preview - works for auction will be on display in the gallery from First Thursday, Nov. 6 through the Annual Wine Dinner & Art Auction event on November 21.

November 6-30 - Michael Hoots "Turning Wood Into Objects d'Arte" at Artworks, Opening Reception: November 6, 2008 - 5:30pm to 8:30pm.

Through November - The Artist Within will host an exhibit and sale of works by the members of local organization "Creative Artists." An artists reception will be held from 5-8 pm, Thursday, November 6, 2007.

Through November - Watercolors by Jim Faulkner will be exhibited at Gordy Fine Art and Framing during the month of November. A reception will be held during the First Thursday on November 6, 2008, from 5 to 8 PM. The public is invited to attend and light refreshments will be served.

Through Dec. 6 - Mischievous Elf Tuesdays 4-5pm at Muncie Ballet Studio. Jumping, turning, crouching,and creating a sprightly elf is the goal....Theatre movement class directed by Arttacgo Luckett - participants will have great fun creating movements using several different styles of dance. The final creation will be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

Through Dec. 6 - Sugar Plum Fairy Saturdays 9:30-10:30 Nov. 1 - Dec. 6th at Muncie Ballet Studio. Tip toes, turning, twirling and creating the sweetest fairy is the goal... Theatre movement class directed by Lisa Love - participants will create a sparkle and shine fairy character dance to be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

Through December 13 - Cornerstone Arts Program classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts, including visual arts, dance and music. Register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through January 4 - Snakes, Rattles and Holes at Minnetrista, a walk-through replica of a snake's skeleton that utilizes videos, artifacts, text panels and interactive elements to teach visitors about snakes of the Midwestern United States.

Through January 9 - Earthworks at Minnetrista. Native American cultures in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia constructed geometric and animal-shaped earth works that often rivaled Stonehenge in their astronomical accuracy. See virtual reconstructions of these works from 39 sites.

Every Monday - Jazz at the Fickle Peach features Charlie Owen on drums, Paul Rhine on double-bass and flute, and Phil Cooley on Piano. They perform every Monday night from 9 to 11.

LOOKING AHEAD...

December 10 - Gingerbread House Workshop at Minnetrista. Bring your imagination and we'll supply the gingerbread, decorations and instructions. You'll leave with a sweet creation that's sure to be a great centerpiece for your family holiday gatherings. Registration deadline: Wednesday, December 10.

December 14 - Cornerstone Celebration. Join Cornerstone Center for the Arts on Sunday, December 14th from 2:00-5:00 pm to celebrate our successful fall session. All twelve week and six week classes will be spotlighted at this event.

Through December - The Artist Within will exhibit "De la France et de l'Espagne" by Suzanne Marie Lambert during December. There will be an opening reception and live music by Bryce Taylor during First Thursday, Dec.4th from 5-9pm. The reception is free and the public is invited.


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Thursday, November 13, 2008

Winter Market at Minnetrista

Winter Market at Minnetrista Sat. November 15 & Sat. December 15, 9 a.m. - noon

Shop for delicious local meats, cheeses, eggs, honey, winter produce, Christmas wreaths, coffee and more at the Winter Market at Minnetrista! While you're here, don't forget to stock up for the holidays at the Orchard Shop. We have quick and easy dips, cheese ball and dessert mixes, festive platters and serving dishes (great for hostess or holiday gift-giving), cider and mulling spices, and much more!

For more information on any of these events or Minnetrista, please 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 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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Important Muncie Downtown Business Council Announcements

IMPORTANT - The Downtown Business Council will meet a week earlier than our regular meeting time, which falls during the Thanksgiving holiday. The meeting will be next week on Wednesday, November 19th at 3pm in the Star Press building conference room.

Muncie Downtown Business Council has three positions opening up on its Board of Directors, and is taking nominations for the next two-year term. A slate of nominees will be presented at next Wednesday's meeting, and the floor will be open to anyone who wishes to nominate herself or himself at that time.

If you are interested in taking a leadership position in the organization, please be sure to attend the Nov. 19 meeting, or send an email with your full name, business / organization and contact information to info [at] munciedowntown.com.

As we ready ourselves for the next cycle of leadership, we ask that you take a few short minutes to answer this Muncie Downtown Business Council 2009 Vision Survey at the link below. If you are interested in serving on the Board of Directors, you will have the opportunity to indicate so in the survey.

Muncie Downtown Business Council 2009 Vision Survey
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=uUrELeYvq0NVsjB041DU4g_3d_3d

You do not have to be a member of Downtown Business Council to complete the survey. All opinions are highly valued.

The slate of nominees for the Board of Directors will be presented to the membership, and voted upon, during the December meeting. Both the November and December meetings are very important for members to attend. Only current members in good standing are eligible to vote.

IMPORTANT - please take note, the December meeting will also take place a week early, on Wednesday, December 17th, to accommodate for the holidays. The meeting will be at 3pm in the Star Press building conference room.

Per the Muncie Downtown Business Council by-laws, the newly elected Board of Directors will vote on the Officers, who will serve one year terms.

You don't have to be a DBC member to attend the meetings, but you do have to be a member to vote for leadership. We encourage everyone's active involvement in the organization, so membership is requested. Downtown Business Council is not limited to businesses and merchants. Residents, organizations and supporters of downtown in general are also welcomed to join DBC.

Downtown Business Council 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.


Please pass this message along to anyone who may be interested in having a voice in the Muncie Downtown Business Council.


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Tuesday, November 11, 2008

The Skin of Our Teeth at Muncie Civic Theatre's Main Street Studio

Muncie Civic's Main Steet Studio Theatre is proud to present Thornton Wilder's The Skin of Our Teeth on November 14th-16th & 20th-22nd. Performances are at 8:00pm for Thursday-Saturday performances and 2:00pm for the Sunday matinee. Tickets are $10 regular admission and $5 for students. Call 288.PLAY for tickets.

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and written by Thornton Wilder, The Skin of Our Teeth is the satiric story of the extraordinary Antrobus family. The main characters of the play are George and Maggie Antrobus (Greek for "human" or "person"), and their two children, Henry and Gladys.

The story features the most ancient of characters and is derived from Biblical and classical personalities such as Adam, Eve, Cain, and Homer with all of them being mixed in with a modern society twist. The Antrobus family must face the world-wide Ice Age, Noah's flood, war and rumors of war, book burnings, and more.

The Skin of Our Teeth presents a fun journey and presents a complicated spectacle of historical and literary classics and shows that human experience is much the same no matter the time or place.

Directed by Dick Willis.

Visit Civic Theatre online at www.munciecivic.org or call 288.PLAY for more information.

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Saturday, November 08, 2008

Downtown Farm Stand Newsletter

Downtown Farm Stand is taking pre-orders for fresh - not frozen - local sustainably produced free range pastured turkeys from Gunthorp Farms. We hope you can take advantage of the tremendous flavor difference that you'll find in a pastured bird for your Thanksgiving table.

The turkeys will be at the store on Saturday, November 22 and ready for pick-up. The birds will range in size between approximately 17 - 22 pounds. If weight is important, we will try to accommodate you, but it most likely won't be exactly the size you want. Theses are white "hybrid" type turkeys - not heritage breed - so these will have more breast meat like most people are used to.

I am offering these at a really good bargain price of $3.99 lb for a free range pastured local turkey. E-mail me your order with a phone number by November 15th.

An Award!
Sara and I are slated to receive the "Richard Greene Public Service Award", given for "active involvement in serving the public's environmental interests and concerns," from our local Robert Cooper Audubon Society on Monday night. This is a huge honor for us and we feel very humbled. It is certainly nice to be recognized by the community for hard work. I also feel very fortunate because I realize that each and every day there are good people in our society working hard to make a difference that go unnoticed, so we really appreciate being acknowledged!

There will be photos and a write-up on the Audubon Society website a week or so after the event. Special thanks go to Barb Stedman for nominating us!

Local Sustainable Produce

Lots of local sustainable chemical free produce stills dominates the stores produce shelves!

We have 4 kinds of garlic, fresh kale, sweet carrots, and brussel sprouts from the Certified Naturally Grown folks at Victory Acres near Upland, IN.

We have baby lettuce mix and excellent tomatoes from Wendy Carpenter of Christopher Farm near Modoc.

We have copious amounts of large candy onions from Gary Prater near Yorktown.

Really nice local produce list for November eh?

Gift Baskets
This is a special advance notice that we are going to be offering holiday gift basket deliveries this holiday season! Keep us in mind, you will have the option of customizing your basket or choosing from some pre-selected package deals.

Baskets will be sold with or without delivery. Gift baskets will have many different options from cheese and summer sausage, to coffee, chocolate, fruits, steaks, Traders Point yogurts, fruit butters, and just about anything that you could want.

More information on pricing and packages to come very soon!

The Downtown Farm Stand, "A Corner Grocery store with local, organic, and sustainable food" is located at 125 E Main St, Corner of Main and Mulberry Streets in Downtown Muncie.

Hours - Monday - Saturday - 10:00 am - 7:00 pm Open Sunday! 12 - 5 pm

765-288-3775 * www.downtownfarmstand.com, * dlring88 [at] sbcglobal.net

We have a lot of parking available right on Main street in front of our door, also in the two hour FREE city lot there is free parking right behind the building with access off of Jackson, and in the surrounding parking lots.

If you need help finding these areas, just ask! Many people find we are very convenient if you need to get in and out quickly and do not have time to walk through a big parking lot and wander through a huge store. You can always find a friendly face to ask for help!

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Thursday, November 06, 2008

Weekly Downtown E-News 11-6-08

Celebrate the arts in Downtown Muncie this First Thursday, November 6th, from 5 to 8pm. Our many art galleries launch their monthly exhibits on the first Thursday evenings of every month, with meet-the-artist receptions.

Harvest Moon Film Festival: A Gathering of Films and Filmmakers Celebrating the Midwest is November 13-15th in downtown Muncie. The festival has numerous film screenings of the eleven independent films featured along with question and answer sessions and select films. There will also be an education seminar featuring professional television and film director Roger Young, and a gala dinner and awards ceremony.The festival will be opening on Thursday, November 13th with the Gala Dinner at 6:00pm at Cornerstone Center for the Arts.

The Muncie Downtown Business Council is accepting nominations for the Board of Directors for the next two-year term. If you are interested in taking a leadership position in the organization, please send an email with your full name and business or organization (if applicable) to info [at] munciedowntown.com. A slate of nominees will be presented at the next DBC meeting on November 19th. NOTICE - this meeting date is a week earlier than our regular meeting time, which falls during the Thanksgiving holiday. Voting will take place during the December meeting.

NOVEMBER EVENTS

November 8 - "Writing from Memory & Experience" - a fall writing workshop at Gallery 308, 1-5pm. with Sarah Chavez, instructor in English Composition aned Literature at BSU. Registration deadline is November 3.

November 8 - Show & Tell: Gingerbread Houses at Minnetrista, 1:30 - 3 p.m. ACF certified chefs Chef Heather Pier, CC and Chef Will Wolfe, CC from Ivy Tech Culinary Program will demonstrate gingerbread house construction and decoration. No registration is needed.

November 8 - Flavors of Fall at Minnetrista - Celebrate the harvest season with a three-course outdoor dinner from the American Culinary Federation prepared and served in the Orchard Courtyard from 6 to 8:30 p.m. For reservations, call (765) 213-3549.

November 8 - Max Music Wars finals at Center Stage. Doors open at 7pm. Proceeds go to Action For Animals.

November 8 - Ferguson will be headlining at The Living Room on November 8th. Opening for Ferguson is Harlequin. Doors open at 8pm and show starts at 8:30pm.

November 12 - Warm Glass Workshop: Mini-Serving Plate at Minnetrista, 5:30-8pm. Create a serving plate just in time for the holidays! Registration deadline: Monday, November 10.

November 13 - 15th - The second annual Harvest Moon Film Festival will take place November 13th -15th in downtown Muncie with film screenings, workshops and more.

November 13 - The Living Room will host an art show, featuring art from several Taylor University students. The show begins at 7pm. Free admission.

November 14 - Andy Davis & Dave Elwert at The Living Room, show starts at 8:30. www.thelivingroommuncie.com.

November 15 - Cardinal Greenway's 15th Anniversary celebration continues with Write Your Own Story for a Healthier Life at 10:00 am. Lori Byers from Ball State Universityexplains how we have the power to improve our health based on the story and script we "write" for ourselves. Learn how to develop a pro-active plan for living a healthier life.

November 15 - Cyberchase(TM) Family Fun Day at Minnetrista, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Meet Harry from the PBS series, Cyberchase. Explore the exhibit. Put your math skills to the test to chase down the answers to some tricky mathematical mysteries. Price: FREE!

November 19 - PBS Program Club at Minnetrista, 4pm. Watch and discuss "Ride Along the Lincoln Highway." Price: FREE; but registration is requested.

November 21 - 6th Annual Wine Dinner and Art Auction at Vera Mae's, to benefit A.R.F. (Animal Rescue Fund) and Gallery 308. Two-week auction artwork preview exhibit begins during First Thursday, Nov. 6.

November 21 - Micah Dalton & Ellery at The Living Room, show starts at 8:30. www.thelivingroommuncie.com.

November 22 - Candy Cane Lane at Cornerstone Center for the Arts, 1-3:30pm. Cost: Free and open to the public.Cornerstone 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 Advanced Dental Care, A Bright Smile Toy Drive.

November 22 - The Artist Within turns four this month! To thank you for your support the past three years, stop by Saturday, November 22nd for refreshments and help us celebrate with a $4 Studio Fee, door prizes and specials all day!

November 22 - Gingerbread House Contest at Minnetrista, in the following categories: Amateur, Teen, Children, and Group. To enter visit, www.minnetrista.net or call (765) 282-4848. Entries will be judged on overall appearance, originality, construction and difficulty. Special awards will also be given to the overall "People's Choice." The winning entries will be displayed at Minnetrista November 28- December 7. Special thanks to Cassella's Kitchen for prizes.

November 27 - Annual Turkey Trot, a non-competitive run and walk on the Cardinal Greenway Thanksgiving morning. The event offers a variety of distances, refreshments, and family time. Registration opens 7:30a.m., Walk/Run begins 8:00 a.m.

November 29 - Minnetrista Minne-Trip: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth, 12-5:30pm. Take a trip to DeBrand Fine Chocolates in Fort Wayne.Registration deadline: Friday, November 21.

NOVEMBER ONGOING


November 6-21 - Gallery 308 Annual Wine Dinner & Art Auction Advance Preview - works for auction will be on display in the gallery from First Thursday, Nov. 6 through the Annual Wine Dinner & Art Auction event on November 21.

November 6-30 - Michael Hoots "Turning Wood Into Objects d'Arte" at Artworks, Opening Reception: November 6, 2008 - 5:30pm to 8:30pm.

Through November - The Artist Within will host an exhibit and sale of works by the members of local organization "Creative Artists." An artists reception will be held from 5-8 pm, Thursday, November 6, 2007.

Through November - Watercolors by Jim Faulkner will be exhibited at Gordy Fine Art and Framing during the month of November. A reception will be held during the First Thursday on November 6, 2008, from 5 to 8 PM. The public is invited to attend and light refreshments will be served.

October 28 through Dec. 6 - Mischievous Elf Tuesdays 4-5pm at Muncie Ballet Studio. Jumping, turning, crouching,and creating a sprightly elf is the goal....Theatre movement class directed by Arttacgo Luckett - participants will have great fun creating movements using several different styles of dance. The final creation will be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

November 1 through Dec. 6 - Sugar Plum Fairy Saturdays 9:30-10:30 Nov. 1 - Dec. 6th at Muncie Ballet Studio. Tip toes, turning, twirling and creating the sweetest fairy is the goal... Theatre movement class directed by Lisa Love - participants will create a sparkle and shine fairy character dance to be used in The Children's Nutcracker. Dance or stage experience is not required.

Through December 13 - Cornerstone Arts Program classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts, including visual arts, dance and music. Register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through January 4 - Snakes, Rattles and Holes at Minnetrista, a walk-through replica of a snake's skeleton that utilizes videos, artifacts, text panels and interactive elements to teach visitors about snakes of the Midwestern United States.

Through January 9 - Earthworks at Minnetrista. Native American cultures in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia constructed geometric and animal-shaped earth works that often rivaled Stonehenge in their astronomical accuracy. See virtual reconstructions of these works from 39 sites.

Every Monday - Jazz at the Fickle Peach features Charlie Owen on drums, Paul Rhine on double-bass and flute, and Phil Cooley on Piano. They perform every Monday night from 9 to 11.

LOOKING AHEAD...

December 10 - Gingerbread House Workshop at Minnetrista. Bring your imagination and we'll supply the gingerbread, decorations and instructions. You'll leave with a sweet creation that's sure to be a great centerpiece for your family holiday gatherings. Registration deadline: Wednesday, December 10.

December 14 - Cornerstone Celebration. Join Cornerstone Center for the Arts on Sunday, December 14th from 2:00-5:00 pm to celebrate our successful fall session. All twelve week and six week classes will be spotlighted at this event.

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Annual Turkey Trot Returns to Cardinal Greenway

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. The event offers a variety of distances, refreshments, and family time.

The Turkey Trot begins on the Cardinal Greenway at the Wysor Street Depot, 700 E. Wysor, Muncie.

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: $7.00/person
$12.00/family (family = living in same household)
pre-registrations must be received by 4:00 p.m. November 21, 2008.

Day of event: $10.00/person
$15.00/family (family = living in same household)

Registration opens 7:30a.m., Walk/Run begins 8:00 a.m.

One non-perishable food item or recycled cell phone per participant is also required as part of the registration fee. All collected items will benefit Christian Ministries.

Registration forms are available at the Wysor Street Depot, Muncie Visitor's Bureau, YMCA, and Kirk's Bike Shop.

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.

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Tuesday, November 04, 2008

Bring Your Friends Downtown for the First Thursday Gallery Walk

Celebrate the arts in Downtown Muncie this First Thursday, November 6th, from 5 to 8pm. Our many art galleries launch their monthly exhibits on the first Thursday evenings of every month, with meet-the-artist receptions.

The following exhibits will be opening (in alphabetical order by gallery) at the next First Thursday:

111 Arts Gallery and Tattoo Studio ~ 111 East Main Street ~ 765-282-8342

Graffiti artist Aaron Roberts will exhibit works at 111 Arts Gallery at 111 E. Main Street. There will be an opening receptio during First Thursday, November 6th, from 5 to 8pm.
For more information visit www.tattooindiana.com or http://www.myspace.com/tattooindiana.

The Artist Within Gallery

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

The Artist Within will feature artwork by members of "Creative Artists Guild", 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. "Creative Artists Guild" is a support group that offers encouragement to promote the development of the arts, as well as contributing to various local charities. Members take pride in their great fellowship and positive critiques and encouragement. Member artists have exhibited locally at the Maring Hunt Library, Robin's Nest, and the Blue Bottle. Guild members exhibiting their work in this show include: Sherman Bragg, Nancy Brown, Mike Fields, De Hale, Steve Hammond, Eric Murphy, Rose Ray and Tanya Ray. The exhibit and sale will run November 4-29, 2008.

An artists' reception will be held from 5-8 pm, Thursday, November 6, 2008.
Beginning Saturday November 8th, the Artist Within will be open from 11:00 am until 7:00 pm on Saturdays. We are also adding Sunday afternoon hours November 9th and will be open from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sundays. These new hours will remain in effect through the Holiday Season.

Several other Downtown businesses are extending their hours and we hope you will visit and shop with them too.

Artworks ~ 301 South Walnut Street ~ 765-288-2221

ArtWorks Gallery's featured artist for November is Michael Hoots, in an exhibit titled "Turning Wood Into Objects d'Arte." There will be an oening reception during First Thursday, November 6, 2008 - 5:30pm to 8:30pm. The exhibit runs through November 30th.

Michael Hoots started MatMar WoodWorks several years ago after becoming tired of the corporate world. "At the time I focused mainly on home renovation trim carpentry and custom decks while living in Georgia. MatMar WoodWorks took a few years hiatus when I decided to reenter the corporate world as a manager of a chemical plant in Ohio and then relocated to Indiana as a General Manager/VP of a small locally owned business. When asked to relocate along with the business, I decided to make a living doing what I really loved, working with wood".

Michael was introduced to wood working by his father and grade school shop teachers. As his skills and tool collection grew, so did the complexity of his projects.

A few years ago Michael made the choice to either learn how to use the lathe given to him by his father over 30 years ago, or give it to one of his sons and let it gather dust in their homes. Once he learned the basics he stated: "I was addicted".

Michael's first pieces were simple bowls and plates made out of solid blocks of wood. He began gluing various species of wood together after reviewing a 1976 article in "Fine Woodworking" on segmented bowls. He stared experimenting with different forms, deriving inspiration from ancient vases in National Geographic, forms in nature and other art sources. He eventually realized that the secret to a beautiful piece of turned wood lay not only in the turning, but in the preparation and especially the finishing. Now over half his house and most of his workshop is covered with pieces waiting to be turned.

Michael's current work primarily consists of segmented turnings made from both domestic (ash, walnut, maple, osage orange) and exotic (wenge, rosewood, purple-heart) woods.

Michael states that: "I am constantly trying new forms, techniques and finishes. A lot of time and effort is put into each piece and I want everyone who owns one of my pieces to be completely satisfied. The look and feel of a carefully crafted piece of woodworking can bring warmth and personality to a room like nothing else can".

" MatMar WoodWorks was named after my sons, Matthew and Marshall. They have always given me great joy and I consider them to be my best work".

ARTWORKS GALLERY'S MISSION - as a non-profit, cooperative artist gallery, our mission is to serve the Muncie community, provide local artists a facility to exhibit their art and to provide educational opportunities and affordable art to our community.

Blue Bottle ~ 206 South Walnut Street ~ 765-284-3630

Bottle coffee shop on Walnut St. showcases local artwork every month. Visit www.bluebottlecoffee.com or myspace.com/bluebottlecoffee for information.

Downtown Farm Stand ~ 125 East Main Street ~ 765-288-3775

Downtown Farm Stand organic market at the corner of Main and Mulberry streets now carries Sue Beach's functional pottery. The Downtown Farm Stand offers a seasonal selection of meat, dairy, eggs, produce, bulk foods and canned goods from Indiana's finest farms and regional producers. Visit www.downtownfarmstand.com for info.

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

November is for lovers...of art and wine! This month find some real treasures at the 6th Annual Wine Dinner and Art Auction sponsored by Gallery 308 and held on November 21 at Vera Mae's.

To kick things off, the Gallery is hosting a reception, Thursday November 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. Get a sneak peek at the art treasures to be on the auction block--and place your bids early. The "auction preview" (and early bidding) will continue through the month until auction night.

You may also purchase wine exclusively bottled for the event by Grape Expectations in Carmel. Well-known local artist Jim Faulkner has designed unique one-of-a-kind "collectible" labels for the wine bottles.

Once again, the proceeds from the silent auction and sale of wine will be divided evenly between Gallery 308 and A.R.F. (Animal Rescue Fund).

Admission to the November 6 opening reception is free and open to the public. Tickets for the dinner and auction are also available at the Gallery, 308 East Main, Muncie, or can be purchased from Sherry Powell at 765-282-0204. An auction book with photos of the artwork will be circulating prior to and during auction night.

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. Contributions to Gallery 308 are tax-deductible. For more information about gallery hours, volunteer and donor opportunities, please call 765-289-8575.

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

Watercolors by Jim Faulkner will be exhibited at Gordy Fine Art and Framing during the month of November and will include both new pieces and other related favorites.

A reception for the artist will be held during the First Thursday downtown event on November 6, 2008, from 5 to 8 PM. The public is invited to attend and light refreshments will be served.

If art communities had royal members, watercolorist Jim Faulkner would wear a crown. Much-admired by patrons, other artists and former students - he taught in the Ball State Art Department - Faulkner has lived the romantic life we all like to believe artists live. And he's still living it.

On several acres just outside the city limits, the artist, along with wife, Eleanor, raised and trained dogs, ran a successful kennel and pursued a solid art career. Both a plein air and studio landscape painter, Faulkner rigs his van to serve as mini-studio as he travels back roads of Indiana, searching for old barns, century-old hilltop brick homes, former garages in small towns. Back home, he applies finishing touches in his converted grand old barn studio. Normally a solitary painter, Faulkner spent a couple of years traveling the state with comrade David Dale, as they painted and sketched the entire course of the Wabash River.

"I paint the meadows, woods, homesteads, towns and people of the mid-west. Trying to find meaning in the stillness of an abandoned farm, or the quiet of a snow-covered woods, or even the aging of the human face. If I find that meaning and quality, the painting is worthwhile to me and I hope to the viewers of my work," offers the soft-spoken Faulkner.

The exhibit may also be viewed during normal business hours:Monday - Friday, 9 AM to 5:30 PM, Saturday, 9 to 3, or by appointment. For more information call 284-8422 or visit www.gordyframing.com. Gordy Fine Art and Framing is located at 224 East Main Street, next to Civic Theatre.

Mitchell Place Studio ~ 301 S Walnut

Institute for Digital Intermedia Arts & Animation Student Art & Research Showcase
Thursday April 3rd, 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.

Toys Forever Models & Hobbies ~ 311 South Walnut Street ~ 765-288-6505

On First Thursdays, Toys Forever Models & Hobbies hosts a meeting of modelers who build and detail plastic models of cars, trucks, aircraft, ships, sci-fi and other subjects. The meeting is held from 6:00PM to 8:00PM. Come see finished models on display, models in the process of being built and talk to the modelers about tips and techniques. Any person interested is welcome to join and participate in the display and discussion. For more information, contact Brandon Mundell at Toys Forever Models & Hobbies (765) 288-6505.

In addition, Toys Forever Models & Hobbies will be open to the public extended hours until 8:00 PM First Thursday. Come meet our knowledgeable and friendly staff while exploring East Central Indiana's premier selection of model and hobby supplies.

Other downtown Muncie businesses may have extended hours or special events during First Thursdays including:

~ Cassella's Kitchen, 401 S. Walnut Street - 765-289-8980
~ FB Fogg, 418 E Main Street - 765-289-7464
~ 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.

Click Here for More Downtown Muncie Events.

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

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Gallery 308 Art Auction Preview and Bidding

November is for lovers...of art and wine! This month find some real treasures at the 6th Annual Wine Dinner and Art Auction sponsored by Gallery 308 and held on November 21 at Vera Mae's.

To kick things off, the Gallery is hosting a reception, Thursday November 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. Get a sneak peek at the art treasures to be on the auction block--and place your bids early. The "auction preview" (and early bidding) will continue through the month until auction night.

You may also purchase wine exclusively bottled for the event by Grape Expectations in Carmel. Well-known local artist Jim Faulkner has designed unique one-of-a-kind "collectible" labels for the wine bottles.

Once again, the proceeds from the silent auction and sale of wine will be divided evenly between Gallery 308 and A.R.F. (Animal Rescue Fund).

Admission to the November 6 opening reception is free and open to the public. Tickets for the dinner and auction are also available at the Gallery, 308 East Main, Muncie, or can be purchased from Sherry Powell at 765-282-0204. An auction book with photos of the artwork will be circulating prior to and during auction night.

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. Contributions to Gallery 308 are tax-deductible. For more information about gallery hours, volunteer and donor opportunities, please call 765-289-8575.

Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

November at The Artist Within

Extended hours - Beginning Saturday November 8th, the Artist Within will be open from 11:00 am until 7:00 pm on Saturdays. We are also adding Sunday afternoon hours November 9th and will be open from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sundays. These new hours will remain in effect through the Holiday Season.

Several other Downtown businesses are extending their hours and we hope you will visit and shop with them too.

The Artist Within will feature artwork by members of "Creative Artists Guild", 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. "Creative Artists Guild" is a support group that offers encouragement to promote the development of the arts, as well as contributing to various local charities. Members take pride in their great fellowship and positive critiques and encouragement. Member artists have exhibited locally at the Maring Hunt Library, Robin's Nest, and the Blue Bottle. Guild members exhibiting their work in this show include: Sherman Bragg, Nancy Brown, Mike Fields, De Hale, Steve Hammond, Eric Murphy, Rose Ray and Tanya Ray. The exhibit and sale will run November 4-29, 2008.

An artists' reception will be held from 5-8 pm, Thursday, November 6, 2008.

The Artist Within turns four this month! Stop by Saturday, November 22nd for refreshments and help us celebrate...thank you for your support the past three years!

Enjoy a $4 Studio Fee, door prizes and specials all day!

It's not too early to schedule that special "Holiday Party"...painting pottery is a great break from the "same ol' party" rut. Call for information or to make a reservation.

Marti Icenogle will offer Art Clay Silver classes for groups of three or more. To schedule a class or for details call us: 765-289-7895.

Bob and Vicki attended a workshop for Contemporary Ceramic Studio Owners held at Mayco Colors, Inc in Hilliard , OH. Stop by and let them share some of the new "fun and easy" techniques for decorating pottery that they brought back with them...just in time for those one-of-a-kind personalized gifts for the holidays!

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

Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com