Ring In the New Year in the Streets of Downtown Muncie Indiana!

Be part of Downtown’s best New Year’s Celebration ever! Featuring a Unity Walk from the County Courthouse to the New Year's Eve festivities at Walnut and Charles Street in Downtown Muncie.

Festivities begin at 10:30pm, followed by a midnight “Times Square” ball drop and fireworks and heated indoor kids’ activities.

New Year's Eve in Downtown Muncie is sponsored by PhyTx Gears, Indiana Michigan Power, Advanced Signs and Graphics, Muncie Sanitary District, and Downtown Development.



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Muncie Action Plan Seeks Public Opinion - That Means YOU!!

The Muncie Action Plan needs you! This is your community, get involved and make your voice heard as we identify what is important to Muncie's future. Come to one of five public meetings Dec.1, 2 or 3. See below for meeting times and places. MITS will provide free bus service to all the public meeting locations.

This may be the only plan that is being developed by the community, for the community through Public Input Meetings that will allow us to express our values and aspirations for Muncie.

Through a process of talking to fellow citizens in small groups (8-12 people) your thoughts will be captured and form the basis of a plan which will guide the City for years to come.

These meetings will begin with a full overview of the process and then break into small groups of 8 - 12 where you will share your ideas with neighbors and colleagues in a personal, meaningful, and directed process. All information will be collected by a facilitator.

The final product - The Muncie Action Plan - will serve as a blueprint for the future and will include specific - and implementable - action steps for short term and mid-term projects.This will not only capture the values and hopes, but provide an action plan, it will be the basis for planning for the City in the years to come. Part of this effort will identify priorities for spending Community Development Block Grant and HOME funds for the next five years.

Whether you live here, work here, or both; whether you have been here your entire life or just a few months - please don't miss this opportunity to participate in this exciting project that will guide Muncie's future.

Muncie Action Plan Public Input Meetings:
Dec. 1 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Hospital Auditorium
Dec. 2 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Southside HS Cafeteria
Dec. 2 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Career Center Presidents Room
Dec. 3 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Forest Park
Dec. 3 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Northside Cafeteria

Visit the MAP facebook page, or cityofmuncie.com for more information.

This is a valuable and meaningful way to spend your time and we encourage you to make a commitment to attend. Please forward to everyone you know who lives, works and/or plays in Muncie!

Click here to download a PDF to print and post, or pass around.

You Are Muncie - Let Your Voice Be Heard!



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Farmers Market at Minnetrista Continues Through Winter

Farmers Market at Minnetrista will continue during the winter months, December through April, on the third Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. - noon.

Shop for delicious local meats, cheeses, eggs, honey, winter produce, baked goods, coffee and more! While you're here, visit the Orchard Shop at Minnetrista and try our fresh pressed apple cider. Pick up a Cider Club Card and buy 11 gallons and receive your 12th gallon free!

These special winter dates will be held inside Minnetrista.

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


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

"A Time For Christmas" at Muncie Civic Theatre

Muncie Civic Theatre presents A Time For Christmas on the Mainstage Theatre, December 4th-6th, and 10th-13th. Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm and the two Sunday matinees on December 6th and 13th are at 2:00pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for students.

This Broadway-style musical is an imaginative adventure throughout time where we learn the true meaning of Christmas. This is a story of hope and the opportunity to change one's life for the better. Audiences will experience music and drama that capture the wonder of Christmas for the whole family.

A Time For Christmas features live musical performances, under the direction of Dr. Michael Williamson, and a cast of more than 70 community members under the direction of Laura Williamson. Join us as we celebrate the holiday season!

Tickets can now be purchased online at www.munciecivic.org or by calling 288.PLAY or by stopping 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.



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

"Sanders Family Christmas" at Muncie Civic Theatre

Muncie Civic Theatre presents Sanders Family Christmas in the Studio Theatre, December 4th-5th, 11th-13th, & 17th-19th. Thursday through Saturday performances are at 8:00pm and the Sunday matinee on December 13th is at 2:00pm. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students.

In this sequel to the ever popular hit Smoke on the Mountain, the Sanders family returns to Mount Pleasant, North Carolina, home of the Mount Pleasant Pickle Factory. It's Christmas Eve, 1941. Reverend Oglethorpe has invited them to the Baptist Church to sing and witness, getting the congregation into the down home holiday spirit before the boys, including one of the Sanders' own, are shipped off to World War II.

More than two dozen Christmas carols, many of them vintage hymns, and hilarious yuletide stories from the more or less devote Sanders family keep the audience laughing, clapping and singing along with bluegrass Christmas favorites. Richly entertaining, this wildly infections musical brings cheer to audiences eager to see how their friends from Smoke on the Mountain have been getting along.

Tickets can now be purchased online at www.munciecivic.org or by calling 288.PLAY or by stopping by the Box Office, Tuesday-Friday from Noon-6:00pm at 216 E. Main Street in Muncie. Tickets are also available at the door one hour prior to the show for cash walk-in sales only.

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


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Muncie Children's Museum is Free on the Three

The Muncie Children's Museum is moving its Free Saturdays to the third Saturday of the month, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., starting November 21, 2009 and going throughout 2010.

Free Saturdays began in 2006 as an outreach to offer families, especially those at-risk populations in our community an opportunity to visit the museum. Free Saturdays directly impact youth by providing educational exhibits and programs at a free admission price.

Since the inception of Free Saturdays in 2006, more than 18,000 people have taken part of free admission to the museum. So far, in 2009 we have welcomed more than 4,600 visitors through the doors of the Muncie Children's Museum during Free Saturdays.

Through continued support from Muncie-area businesses, philanthropic organizations and East Central Indiana supporters the Muncie Children's Museum has been able to continue our mission by providing free admission during our Free Saturdays for the residents of East Central Indiana.

For more information about Free Saturdays at the Muncie Children's Museum, visit www.munciechildrensmuseum.com or call 765.286.1660.

The Muncie Children's Museum was founded in 1977, as a hands-on, educational and innovative museum for children. The museum is aimed at bringing educational and interactive entertainment to the children of East Central Indiana. The museum's exhibits are designed to be fun, raise questions, provoke interest and stimulate curiosity. The museum is located at 515 S. High St. in downtown Muncie. Museum hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday and 1 - 5 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $6 per person ages 1 - 100.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Candy Cane Lane at Cornerstone Center for the Arts

Cornerstone Center for the Arts will be turned into a winter wonderland on Saturday, November 21st from 1:00 to 3:30 pm for the annual Candy Cane Lane!

Children can enjoy crafts, presents, entertainment, and visit with Santa. All children will get to visit with Santa and receive a free toy for the holidays! Last year over 1,200 visitors enjoyed this exciting event.

The event is free and open to the public, so come out and celebrate the holidays!



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Cardinal Greenway Hosts Annual Turkey Trot

Move your feet so others can eat! Cardinal Greenway will host the annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 26, on the Cardinal Greenway. Registration opens 7:30a.m., Walk/Run begins 8:00 a.m. at the Wysor Street Depot, 700 E. Wysor, Muncie.

Cardinal Home Medical and Kohl’s are proud to sponsor the annual non-competitive run and walk. The event offers a variety of distances, refreshments, and family time.

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 is $7.00/person or $12.00/family (family = living in same household). Pre-registrations must be received by 4:00 p.m. November 20, 2009.

Registration day of event is $10.00/person or $15.00/family (family = living in same household)

One non-perishable food item 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 online at www.cardinalgreenways.org.

Turkey Trot is hosted by Cardinal Greenway and sponsored by Cardinal Home Medical of New Castle and Kohl’s.

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


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

"Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" at Muncie Civic Theatre

Muncie Civic Theatre presents "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" in the Studio Theatre, November 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, & 21. Thursday through Saturday performances are at 8:00pm and the Sunday matinee on November 15th is at 2:00pm. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students.

"Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" focuses on an embittered academic couple who gradually draw a younger couple, freshly arrived from the Midwest, into their games of marital love-hatred. The play is a dramatic blood sport fought with words rather than weapons and is a powerful display of human nature. This was Edward Albee's first full-length play and his first to appear on Broadway, and is considered by many to be his greatest dramatic achievement, as well as a central work in the contemporary American theatre.


Featuring Tom Cherry, Lisa Etchison, Ryan Lash, and Erica Dumond as the cast with direction by Bill Wilkison.

Tickets can now be purchased online at www.munciecivic.org or by calling 288.PLAY or by stopping by the Box Office, Tuesday-Friday from Noon-6:00pm at 216 E. Main Street in Muncie. Tickets are also available at the door one hour prior to the show for cash walk-in sales only.

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

What: Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

When: November 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21
Where: Muncie Civic Theatre Studio, 222 E. Main St. Muncie, IN 47305

Who: Open to the public.
Cost: $10 for adults, $7 for students


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Lt. Governor Becky Skillman Welcomes the Heart of the City in Muncie as an Indiana Main Street Participant at Statehouse Ceremony

Lieutenant Governor Becky Skillman welcomed the Heart of the City to the Indiana Main Street program at a ceremony on Friday at the Indiana Statehouse. Indiana Main Street is administered by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA). The program provides assistance to participating Indiana cities and towns for economic development efforts in their local downtown and commercial business districts.

"Viable downtowns are crucial to the economic health of our state, and we need strong business districts now more than ever considering the current economic environment," said Lt. Governor Skillman. "The Indiana Main Street program is creating opportunities for revitalization and restoration, as well as encouraging a favorable environment for businesses."

The City of Muncie will join more than 90 other Indiana Main Street communities dedicated to the revitalization of their downtown communities. Indiana Main Street is founded on a community-driven "Four Point Approach" to downtown development: organization, design, promotion and economic restructuring.

The Heart of the City in Muncie has been actively involved in downtown development for the past 10 years, completing projects like facade restorations, street renovations, and new housing projects to increase the downtown population, as well as hosting community events.

The group is currently working on projects like a public park and green space, as well as pursuing avenues to develop new business opportunities. The goals of the group are to continue redevelopment and economic growth, create a unified marketing plan, and use their historic heritage to establish downtown Muncie as an arts and cultural district.

OCRA's Executive Director David Terrell said, "We are honored to have the Heart of the City as part of the Indiana Main Street family. They know and understand the importance of a thriving downtown and have community members willing to assist in the revitalization efforts of their downtown. We are very proud of Muncie and are happy to recognize them today."


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Real Food, Real Indiana Expo Returns to Minnetrista

Join the Indiana Foodways Alliance at beautiful Minnetrista, on the banks of the White River in Muncie, for the Real Food, Real Indiana Expo, a big celebration of Indiana-made foods on Saturday, November 21st, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This is IFA's second annual Expo, an indoor event where you may taste, savor and buy locally made artisan foods just in time for the holidays and tour the exhibits at Minnetrista, the Ball Family's community center and museum. Sample sauces, meats, preserves, baked goods, coffees, wines, cheeses, honey, hand-made candies and much more.

Admission is $5, children under 12 accompanied by an adult free.

Minnetrista is located at 1200 North Minnetrista Parkway (left off Wheeling Ave.) in Muncie, Indiana, 47303-2925. Parking for the event is free.

Expo admission is just $5, and benefits the Indiana Foodways Alliance.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Live Jazz Tonight at White River Landing Nov. 20

Live Jazz Tonight will perform at White River Landing this Friday, Nov. 20, from 6:30 to 9:30. The band will also perform at Motini's Saturday night from 9 to midnight. Live Jazz Tonight features the music of John Coltrane, Modern Jazz Quartet, Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, Cole Porter, Gershwin and original compositions by Paul Rhine and Tim Van Cleave.

For more information, visit the band's website: www.livejazztonight.net.

Also, the Tim Van Cleave Project performs at Motini's every Thursday night from 9 to midnight. The group features Tim Van Cleave on vibes, Gabe Beach on drums and Paul Rhine on electric fretless bass and flute. The band plays the fusion music of Chick Corea, Freddie Hubbard and others as well as original music.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Harvest Moon Film Festival Rescheduled for February

The Harvest Moon Film Festival will now be held on February 11, 12, and 13, 2010, due to the large number of responses prompting festival expansion. The festival will now include three days of film screenings instead of two. The festival will also include more films as well as more opportunities to view those films, making it the biggest event yet. Films will be screened both at Cornerstone Center for the Arts and Muncie Civic Theatre.

The festival will also include an expanded community component. Not only will there be workshops about the art of filmmaking, but local community members can also take part in open auditions to be added to a community actor database that will be a resource for local and regional film projects. Anyone interested in filmmaking as an actor, director, screenwriter, crew, etc. will have the opportunity to be added to an extensive database for networking and collaboration in future film projects.

This will be a great opportunity to view independent films, learn more about filmmaking, or become involved in upcoming films. Visit www.harvestmoonfilmfestival.com in the coming months for details!

* What: Harvest Moon Film Festival
* When: February 11, 12, and 13, 2010
* Where: Cornerstone Center for the Arts and Muncie Civic Theatre
* Who: Open to the public.

For more information about the Harvest Moon Film Festival, call Robby Tompkins, Director of Education, at 765.281.9503, ext. 23.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

After 5 at Minnetrista presents Dr. Entomo's Sideshow

Join your friends at Minnetrista Friday, Oct. 30 from 6-9 pm and get creeped out by crawlies, scared by spiders, and itchy about insects while visiting Dr. Entomo's Palace of Exotic Wonders! Enjoy insect themed appetizers, a signature drink and a cash bar, buggy activities and much more! Don't miss this special event including some of the creepiest, cringiest bugs around.

Minnetrista has partnered with Muncie Young Professionals Group to create an after-work series of events called After 5 at Minnetrista. The series features food, drink, and fun activities to introduce people to Minnetrista and other professionals.

Must be 21+ to attend.

Cost: $10 per person.
Registration deadline: Monday, Oct. 26. Call (765) 213-3549.

-------

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.



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

New Contemporary Art Gallery To Make Debut In Downtown Muncie: Art & Soul By Phoebe Art Gallery

Artist Phoebe Wantz is opening a new art gallery, Art and Soul by Phoebe Art Gallery, in Downtown Muncie.

The grand opening will be on Friday, October 30, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. with an artist reception starting at 6 p.m. at 409 South Walnut Street, downtown Muncie.

Ms. Wantz is a former art major at Ball State, but better known locally for her work in Community Theater, has currently turned her focus to her artistic talent and established a new contemporary art gallery, the "Art and Soul by Phoebe Art Gallery."

Wantz currently has about 100 completed canvases and these paintings cover a variety of eclectic themes - from Southwest art, religious themes, abstracts to nudes. One can tell by Wantz's work that the "Muse" has really taken her by storm, since she has painted all of these works since March, 2008. Her paintings recently took first, second and third place in acrylics at a juried art show at the Minnetrista Cultural Center.

Multi-media artist Michael DuQuette will be the artistic director and curator of the gallery. Mr. DuQuette recently moved to Muncie from Chicago where he received his BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Mr. DuQuette is a rare artist in that he displays convincing accomplishment both in abstract expressionism and a kind of "funk-neo-realism" with which he creates portraits, cityscapes/landscapes and other urban vistas in a decidedly off beat style which is visually provocative, compositionally exciting and wild with color. DuQuette has received several awards over the last 25 years and has shown his work nationally and internationally.

The gallery's Artist-in-Residence, Mrs. Hye-Sook JEE, will be the on-site studio artist creating traditional Korean paper art using only paper to form bowls, lamps, tables and sculptures. Ms. JEE and her family just recently moved to Muncie from Korea. Not only will the public be invited to enjoy her work, but to SEE her work.

This new art gallery's mission and motto is: "Artist First". Art and Soul by Phoebe Gallery will be focusing on the art and artists which includes low commissions on sales: 20% for established/up and coming artists and 10% for student artists (currently enrolled) with no membership fees, which is unheard of in traditional galleries.

The gallery will be providing a Senior High School Student Scholarship Program and month long show with the scholarship awarded in the late spring of 2010. Plus there will be monthly featured artists, periodic juried art shows, poetry readings, book signings, play readings, musical presentations and other artistic adventures in the future.

Tanglevine Crossing, of Farmland, Indiana, will also be adding some selected pieces to be displayed and sold at the Gallery.

This is an exciting opportunity for local and out-of-state artists to display their work while bringing the spirit of the arts to the Muncie community. The Art and Soul by Phoebe Art Gallery is seeking artists for upcoming shows located downtown at 409 S. Walnut Street. It is certain to be a showplace of fresh and exceptional talent. The gallery welcomes diverse, unique artistry encompassing all media forms. Interested artisans should contact Art and Soul by Phoebe Art Gallery at 765-288-0005.


Contact Information:
Phoebe Wantz, Owner/Artist/Director
Michael DuQuette, Artistic Director and Curator
Art and Soul by Phoebe Art Gallery
Phone: 765-288-0005 Cell: 765-717-5456
Email: artandsoulbyphoebegallery@gmail.com


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Farm Stand Deli Now Open in Downtown Muncie!

The Downtown Farm Stand has just opened The Farm Stand Deli, "a local organic eatery," inside their organic grocery at the corner of Mulberry and Main streets in Downtown Muncie.

The Farm Stand Deli is open Monday - Saturday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm, and will soon be open Sundays. Carryout available: Soups for carryout served in re-usable containers only (no disposables).

Delivery available to the immediate downtown area. Free Wi-Fi is also available at the store.

The Farm Stand Deli makes excellent sandwiches and wraps, has an all organic salad bar, homemade soups, and does fresh organic fruit and vegetable juicing. We will have a constantly changing menu and selection in our deli case. We have European, New York, Midwestern, and International influences in the food.

The everyday special is the $3 traditional taco! We make our tacos with outstanding fillings that change weekly. ALL OF OUR MEATS AND CHEESES are procured from local environmentally sustainable producers. We make all of our food from what we carry in our store! Daily specials are at the heart of what we do, we like to use what's fresh, good, and in-season....so all of our food is healthy and delicious!

The Basics ....

* Fruit and Vegetable juicing - All Organic! We take the work out of juicing for you! Try our delicious and healthy juices today! Ask us for suggestions!
* Two soup varieties that change throughout the week - One meat based, one vegetarian each day.
* A full salad bar! All organic. Get your salad dressings and sides of meat and cheese at the deli case.
* Three dollar tacos everyday with fillings that change often - Excellent and already popular. These are great everyday food - very filling, wholesome, delicious, all organic, and gluten free. Two makes a meal. Tell us if you like it spicy!
* Sandwiches and wraps - We have lots of great ideas for you here. We will have our own cherry wood smoked ham, 100% grass fed shaved roast beef, our gourmet balsamic Italian cold chicken (a delectable cold cut), homemade bean burgers, and our Farm Stand hummus everyday!
* Did I mention cheese? If you're a customer you know what to expect here from our amazing cheese suppliers. We can slice cheese and meat however you like!
* Specialty items like home made kimchi, will be available - just keep watching for more variety in the "wet" salads department.

What's special about us?

Over 40 local sustainable farms supply our store and deli! We are the only all local and organic eatery in all of East Central Indiana and beyond!

We are the only restaurant that has traditional tacos in Muncie. We sell tacos the way they are sold in a traditional taqueria.

We have the only fruit and vegetable juice bar in Muncie, and ours is 100% organic!

We are also the only delicatessen in Muncie and in all of Indiana that has created a new eco-gastronomical restaurant!

We are the only restaurant in Muncie that does not have a major national food distributor coming to our door such as Sysco or GFS. Our food is REAL!

All of our dishes are homemade from whole organic foods all of the time. We do all of the prep work!

Want more? How about the fact that the same comfortable family atmosphere and excellent service you've come to expect from The Downtown Farm Stand, you can now get at The Farm Stand Deli!

The Future ...

Soon we expect to be making our own in house corn tortillas. We also have the desire to make sausages - gourmet varieties that you can't get anywhere else. We have many ideas for great new foods for the deli case. Stay tuned ...

To our loyal supporters,

Thanks to everyone for your enthusiasm! You have supported us and now we are able to respond to your requests with a fully functioning delicatessen! Only our long time patrons know the years of planing and hard work that have gone into this process, and our wonderful customers have supported us throughout. What we have created is something entirely unique. The pure mission behind this venture is to help create a local, sustainable, and organic food system. We operate with a minimum amount of waste. As much of our food as is possible is purchased from local organic farms, and all other food is certified organic. We hear the food is sensational! There is nothing like The Farm Stand Deli anywhere around. We hope you brag to your friends about what you have here and we know that, properly utilized, it will increase your quality of life tremendously. This is your deli - we hope you enjoy it, watch it change and grow, and we look forward to your feedback!

Dave Ring

Downtown Farm Stand and Farm StandDeli
125 E Main St - Corner of Main and Mulberry
Downtown Muncie
765-288-3775

Now open 60 hours a week...
Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday - 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Sunday! 12 - 5 pm

Parking Info:
We have parking available on Main street in front of our door along the sidewalk! You can also park in the two hour FREE city lot right behind the building off of Jackson St and also 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. Additionally you can always find a friendly face to ask for help!


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

The Basement Opens October 9 at Muncie Children's Museum

The haunting-season is upon us and the Muncie Children's Museum's The Basement is your portal to the dark and terrifying world of ghouls, werewolves and things that go bump in the night! The Muncie Children's Museum's Basement will open its doors on Friday, October 9.

The haunting season commences at the Muncie Children's Museum's on October 9, with The Basement! The faint of heart are not encouraged to attend The Basement to avoid being scared to death!

The Basement runs every Friday and Saturday from October 9 through October 31. The 2009 hours of operation are:

Friday, October 9 6:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 10 6:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Friday, October 16 6:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 17 6:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Friday, October 23 6:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 24 6:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 29 6:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Friday, October 30 6:00 - 11:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 31 6:00 - 11:30 p.m.

With help from students from the Ball State University Theatre Education Department, The Basement will transport you to the Netherworld. The Basement is being coordinated, for the fifth year in a row, by Professor Michael Daehn, of the Ball State Theatre Education Department, and his wife, Patti.

Admission to The Basement is $6.00 per person with all of the proceeds going to benefit the exhibits and programs at the MCM. With alarming and gory sights around every corner, The Basement is not recommended for children.

The Basement is sponsored by All Access, Elite Printing Services, Frank & Rosemary Ball, Gill Bros. Furniture, Great Deals magazine, Industrial Centre Federal Credit Union, Insight Consulting, McDonalds, Sight & Sound, Meijer, Mutual Bank, thestarpress.com, Vectren, WLBC, WERK, MAX and Yorktown Lodge No. 345.

For more information, visit www.munciechildrensmuseum.com or call 765.286.1660.

###

The Muncie Children's Museum was founded in 1977, as a hands-on, educational and innovative museum for children. The museum is aimed at bringing educational and interactive entertainment to the children of East Central Indiana. The museum's exhibits are designed to be fun, raise questions, provoke interest and stimulate curiosity. The museum is located at 515 S. High St. in downtown Muncie. Museum hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday and 1 - 5 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $6 per person ages 1 - 100.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Muncie Music Fest Band Lineup

Don't miss Muncie MusicFest on Saturday, October 10 in the streets of Downtown Muncie! More than 60 bands will be featured at this gated, all-ages event, on multiple outdoor stages and in all of our downtown music venues.

For advance tickets, up-to-date band lineup and more information, visit munciemusicfest.com.


2009 Muncie MusicFest Lineup

FM Music Stage
6:00pm mike milligan and steam shovel
7:00pm wes moore
8:00pm Catch Curtis
9:00pm Eight Stories High
10:00pm Michael Martin Band
11:00pm The Middlemen
12:00am Rich Hardesty Band

Michelob Stage
6:00pm The Cowboy angels
7:00pm Awkward Silence
8:00pm A Bad Idea
9:00pm Moser Woods
10:00pm Midwest Hype
11:00pm Crusoe
12:00am Soraia

Heart of the City Stage
6:00pm Diagram Of Truth
7:00pm wormusic
8:00pm Ironworkers Guild
9:00pm Small Wonders
10:00pm Jenn Cristy
11:00pm The Embraceables
12:00am Rodeo Ruby Love

DJ Tent
8:00pm Random Art Projects
9:00pm Tiger Cub
10:00pm The Electrostatic Attraction
11:00pm justplainpaul
12:00am Amtrak

Doc's Music Hall
6:00pm The Bashville Boys
7:00pm Crazy Larry and the Dead Blues Band
8:00pm Mad Anthony
9:00pm Tax Brandywine
10:00pm Samesoul
11:00pm Shotgun Scooter
12:00am The Bonesetters
1:00am Dave Elwert

Center Stage
7:00pm In the Face of War
8:00pm Birth of Oceans
9:00pm Devils of Belgrade
10:00pm Cursed For Manners
11:00pm Losing September
12:00am Necrophagous

The Living Room
6:00pm The Poor Kids
7:00pm Violence Against Robots
8:00pm The Main Squeeze
9:00pm Rale
10:00pm Selifane Parade
11:00pm Jeffrey James
12:00am .Records.

The Heorot (downstairs)
8:00pm Anthony of Archer St.
9:00pm Derek Jones (solo)
10:00pm The Shawn Salmon Trio

The Heorot (upstairs)
9:00pm Dead End Drive In
10:00pm The Impetuous Impregnables
11:00pm Coinslot

The Blue Bottle
6:00pm Brian Chauncey / Bouncy Cassette
8:00pm bert n stu the folkie blues 2

The Fickle Peach
9:00pm Pray For Mojo

The Silo
7:00pm Dreams of University
8:00pm The Two Timers
9:00pm One Side Later
10:00pm Steely James
11:00pm Bleed Stone


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Downtown Muncie to Host Craft Beer Festival

Muncie has become the craft beer capital of Indiana. According to area distributors, more craft beer is sold here than in Bloomington, Ft. Wayne, or even Indianapolis; and most of that is sold downtown. The Fickle Peach alone is the number one account for Bell's, Founder's, Magic Hat and Warbird; and the number two account for Three Floyds and Stone.

There's no better way to celebrate our status than to raise a glass - except maybe to raise 1,000 glasses. October 24th, 2009, Muncie will host the Muncie Brewfest, at the Horizon Convention Center's Interurban Hall. Over 20 breweries will be represented, as well as area distributors, home brew and brewpub suppliers, and some of Muncie's finest craft beer sellers.

In addition to great beer, there will be great food, live music by Cory Hill and Mikey Mason, a homebrew competition and live airing of the the best podcast ever, The Good Beer Show - all included in the $35 admission.

If a full day of tasting America's best beers isn't enough, the Fickle Peach will host a private VIP Reception, where - for an additional $15 - guests can mingle with brewers and beer geeks, taste some exclusive beers not available at the festival.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Muncie Historic Preservation Commission and Muncie Downtown Development. If the goal of 1,000 attendees is reached, it will mean $20K for Historic Preservation to use for matching funds on grants that the office wouldn't otherwise be able to apply for; and $5K for Downtown Development, which will fund this year's New Year's Eve fireworks display.

The event is being presented by Light Up Muncie, and sponsored by the Fickle Peach, Cavalier Distributing, World Class Beverages, St. Gobain Containers, Hiatt Printing and Outfitter. The homebrew competition is sponsored by Great Fermentations, the Wine-N-Vine and Barley & Vine Brewery.

Event organizer and Light Up Muncie founder, Ty Morton, hopes to see more destination events like these in the future:

"There's no reason we shouldn't be having an event like this every month in Muncie. Whether it's craft beer, classic VWs, model trains, or whatever you're into; there are thousands of people out there that are into the same thing. Why not invite them here? While they're here, they'll shop, eat, rent a room, etc.," Morton says. "Plus, it's not that hard to put these things together. There are lots of people here that are eager to help."

Cheryl Crowder, Program Manager and Event Director for Heart of the City:

"We are very excited to be one of the beneficiary of the proceeds from this event. We look forward to utilizing the funds to bring a fireworks show to our family friendly New Year's Eve Celebration in Downtown Muncie. Downtown has always been focused on offering an exceptional experience to visitors, something out of the ordinary. This year's Muncie Brewfest, its organizers and sponsors are great Downtown ambassadors for quality product and an exceptional experience. We are glad to share in their vision."

Bill Morgan, Muncie Historic Preservation Officer:

"The recent Governor’s Arts Awards at Muncie’s Cornerstone Center for the Arts proves that this town can throw a great party. Proceeds from this benefit will provide the match for us to seek federal grants that will continue the redevelopment of our historic downtown and help us save our endangered historic treasures. Drink beer and do good!"

For more information about the festival, or to purchase tickets, visit the website at http://www.munciebrewfest.com.

Light Up Muncie, Inc. (http://www.lightupmuncie.com) is dedicated to developing new ways to address the problems of financing community enhancement initiatives in today's economy. By harnessing the power of many smaller contributions – small potatoes – LUM helps local organizations raise the resources they need, and do so in a manageable way that has low impact on contributors.

For more information, contact Ty Morton at (765) 749-0652, or via email at ty@lightupmuncie.com.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

It's a Zoo at the Muncie Children's Museum!

Friends and Family Fun Night at the Muncie Children's Museum, on Friday, October 2, from 3 - 7 p.m., will be centered around exotic and entertaining animal from Mark's Arc! Admission is free.

Mark will be bringing the zoo to the Muncie Children's Museum. Mark presents animals in a hands-on, friendly presentation with humor! Mark will perform his half hour sessions at 3:15, 4:15, 5:15 and 6:15. This program is funded by the generous support of the Isaac and Ada Durham Veterinary Trust.

Underwriting for Friends and Family Fun Night is provided by the Edmund F. & Virginia B. Ball Foundation.

For more information about Friends & Family Fun Night at the Muncie Children's Museum, call (765) 286-1660 or visit www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

###

The Muncie Children's Museum was founded in 1977, as a hands-on, educational and innovative museum for children. The museum is aimed at bringing educational and interactive entertainment to the children of East Central Indiana. The museum's exhibits are designed to be fun, raise questions, provoke interest and stimulate curiosity. The museum is located at 515 S. High St. in downtown Muncie. Museum hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday and 1 - 5 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $6 per person ages 1 - 100.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Muncie Music Fest Coming to Downtown October 10

Muncie MusicFest is right around the corner! Over 100 artists submitted to our call out for musical acts, and it was hard to sift through all the great bands that applied. Muncie MusicFest will feature over 60 bands on Saturday, October 10 in downtown Muncie! Rich Hardesty, Jenn Cristy, and Soraia are headlining and are just a FEW of the musical acts ready to rock downtown.

Muncie MusicFest is a gated, all-ages event that rocks downtown Muncie, IN once a year, featuring a host of local talent on multiple outdoor stages and events in all of our downtown music venues.

Tickets can be purchased for eight dollars presale or twelve dollars at the door. Muncie Sanitary District Recycling Initiative is also offering two dollars off at the gate with a donation of an old cellular phone.

Please visit the website at "munciemusicfest.com" for a full list of the schedule and for presale locations.

This year, we are also opening the gates to local vendors and businesses. This is a community event, to which we would like all facets of our community represented. If you would like your business to partake in the festivities, we ask that you visit our website and contact us there.

Get excited! Muncie MusicFest is less than two weeks away, and we can't wait to see you there!


Presented by Muncie Downtown Development, and brought to you by WLBC 104.1 and MAX 93.5 and 96.7. Sponsored by MSD Recycling Initiative, FMMusic, and Michelob Brewing Company.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

ArtsWalk Update - Outdoor Activities Moved Inside in Case of Rain

ArtsWalk is a rain or shine event! Look for all of our featured artists and community information booths at inside locations in case of rain. Vendors will be moved into First Merchants Bank on Main Street, as well as The Rose Court on Charles St., in case of wet weather.



Look for the Red, Yellow and Blue Balloons for activity and exhibit locations. MITS trolley will help keep you dry if you would rather "ArtsCruise" from location to location. Grab those umbrellas and come play in the rain!



Click here for a full list of activities, exhibits and entertainment offered at ArtsWalk. Meet your friends downtown and enjoy this spectacular celebration of Muncie's arts and cultural heritage. ArtsWalk is a free family event.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Weekend of the Arts Kicks Off Thursday with ArtsWalk!

Join us in the streets of downtown Muncie for the annual ArtsWalk event this Thursday, September 24, from 5 to 9 p.m.

This year's ArtsWalk will be bigger and better than ever, as we celebrate a Weekend of the Arts in honor of the Governor's Arts Awards, hosted this year at Cornerstone Center for the Arts in downtown Muncie.

See below for a full list of activities, exhibits and entertainment offered at ArtsWalk. Meet your friends downtown and enjoy this spectacular celebration of Muncie's arts and cultural heritage. ArtsWalk is a free family event.

Transportation will be provided by the MITS TROLLEY, making a continuous loop through Downtown every 15 minutes, stopping at all galleries and attractions on Main, Walnut and Charles - Philip Stephenson will be your trolley guide for the evening.

Dave Nelson's public art pieces entitled "Conceptual Continuity: ArtWalkers" will be featured throughout ArtsWalk.

Washington Street

Emily Kimbrough House: The East Central Neighborhood Association (ECNA) is sponsoring an exhibit that will highlight local artists from the turn of the century to present time. Many of the artists lived or are currently living in the East Central Neighborhood and the exhibit will also include historic photographs of Muncie from ECNA's private collection. The art exhibit will be presented in Hoosier author Emily Kimbrough (born 1899) childhood home located at 715 E. Washington Street.


Main Street

FB Fogg: Local clothing artist, Jennifer Wilson and her whimsical Children's Clothing. Sharon Larue will be bringing by some of her new bug friends, and Amy Greely will have her new fall lineup on display, new seasonal sculptures by FB Fogg artists. We will be serving wine and appetizers. Muncie Symphony League- MSO benefit discount sale.

Gallery 308: "Carte da Trionfi" The Work of Margaret Cartmell Cantrell. Aerosol art demonstration featuring Will Britton. ArtMart- Aerosol demonstration in parking lot adjacent to Gallery 308. Creation of two pieces of Public Art- one professional piece and one created through audience participation

GordyFine Art and Framing : Salon-style group exhibit, titled, Featured Artists of 2009, Gordy Fine Art and Framing Co.

The group includes: Kim Anderson, Carol Burt, Eric Ernstberger, Jim Faulkner, Charlene George, Brian Gordy, Paul Laseau, Alan Patrick, Margie Prim, and Carol Strock Wasson. The artists will be presented at 6 PM.

Clay demo by Kim Anderson and/or Carol Burt, tour of our newly remodeled framing & gilding facilities at 7 PM., Jason Cooper, guitarist, will play sets throughout the evening. Two or more recent grads of BSU Art Dept. will have a booth of their drawings & paintings on the sidewalk.

Muncie Civic Theater: 7:30 performance of "Charley's Aunt"

First Merchants Bank Lobby: Ladies Choice!

Green Glam- jewelry and fiber arts

Gypsy Wilderness- Jewelry and Fiber Arts

Cassandra Foxx- jewelry, handbags and fiber

Jill Palumbo-polymer clay jewelry and demonstration

MaryAnn Tooley- hand smocked children's clothing

Dianne Schafer-handmade greeting cards, note cards and bookmarks

Downtown Farm Stand: Function Pottery by Sue Beech, lots of fresh local organic food, potential food demonstrations from the Bistro if permitting allows!

111 Arts Gallery: Tattoo themed artwork by working tattooist. Paintings, traditional flash and assemblage from Indiana to Ohio, Bloomington to Muncie. Art Sidewalk sale from a variety of local artists.


100 Blk South Walnut St.

Patterson Building: Culinary Students and faculty from IVY Tech will be on sight to discuss with visitors the new working kitchen/classroom plans for this historically significant Downtown building.

City Parking Lot: Garlando Drums Unlimited: interactive percussive experience for both kids and adults utilizing many different rhythmic instruments.

Pazols Jewelers Alcove: gowithlala.com is hosted by two seven year old girls, Bella and Jayla and features tourism and charity in Indiana through the eyes of children. We showcase Indiana businesses and open doors for children to explore new things in their own backyards. The girls will be doing temporary tattoos and covering the event with their video camera.

RD Hunt: Showcasing family & children photo styles with a special savings coupon for all visitors.

Muncie Ballet Studio: Muncie's newest dance studio will open it's doors for Arts Walk. Muncie Ballet, 18 years old is in a new home on 118 S. Walnut street. Twirl in a tutu and spin with sparkle! Make a tiara and try on a tutu. Refreshments provided by "The Island" Muncie's little piece of paradise located just of the Cardinal Greenway. www.theislandmuncie.com

Dandelions: Tropical Plant Centerpiece Arrangement Demonstration

Kirks Bike Shop: Extended hours and end of summer clearance sale (all 2009 bikes discounted)with stationary Bike racers in front of the store all evening long.


Jackson Street

Cortex: various musical guests from Jazz groups to vocal artists

Brenda Ramsey- hair art, Beth Chico-video art, Cortex Art Collection - various local artist

GEA Architects- BSU Student presentation of the "Cultural Trail" charrett results.


200 Blk South Walnut

Wishbone Gifts: Performance Art piece featuring Mark Carter as the "Hotdog man"J

Towne Boutique: One of a kind, eclectic and fanciful hats and accessories

Blue Bottle: 111 Arts Gallery will be collaborating with the Blue Bottle coffee shop in theme and display. www.tattooindiana.com The YWCA's art exhibit will be on display in the new restaurant which is located at 206 S. Walnut Street. The residents and staff painted soup bowls that will be on display and will be available for sale that evening. Also on display will be a quilt that was designed by Betty Hutchins and was made by RSVP volunteers. Pictures from the quilt were later painted by Rosemary Holloway and will also be on display.


Blue Bottle Parking Lot: Performance Stage

5:00-6:00 BSU Jazz Band
6:30-7:30- BSU Sax Ensemble
7:30-9:00- Gordon Brooks

Daves Alley: Performance Stage 7:00-8:00- BSU Student Dance Association - Department of Theatre and Dance: tap dancing wars and conceptual interpretation.

Vera Mae's Bistro: IVY Tech Culinary students will demonstrate the art of garnishment "Garde Manger" outside the Bistro.

Docs Music Hall: 5:00-8:00 Steve Penrod singer songwriter, Creative Opportunity Center artists, 8:00-10:00- Peterson Simmons and Dunn jazz

Heorot: Finely Crafted Beers served in a traditional ale house setting

Chase Bank Sidewalk: MACC: Muncie Art and Cultural Council Member Booths:

* Minnetrista- painting activity and information
* Heart of the City- Event and Membership Information
* Muncie Music Fest- Festival Info and ticket sales- digital madness
* Emens Auditorium- Information about upcoming season
* Indiana Public Radio- Listener supported radio information
* Muncie Historic Preservation and Rehabilitation Commission- Display of Downtown Facade Program, 2009 Historic Preservation Awards and Student Designs for Green Rehab of Derelict Homes
* Muncie Delaware County Chamber of Commerce-selling Muncie pen and Ink drawings by KP Singh

Chase Bank Alcove: 6:00-7:00 The Euphonium: BSU Tuba Ensemble performance

7:00-9:00- BSU Student Chase Skiles: interactive booth where people can experiment with controls for light and video.


300 Blk South Walnut

ArtWorks: Jon Becker - Masks , Ken Ryden - Bronze Sculptures, Harrison Hunt - author and book sale and signing of "Johnny Hoosier: Lessons Learned in the Heartland", growing up in Indiana in the fifties. As well as "The Disintegration of America; From Powerful to Powerless". Lylanne Musselman - poet and book sale and signing , Country Jazz Caravan w/Bob Foster (Owner of the Hedgehog Music Showcase of Arcadia) rhythm guitar, Harry Davis - lead guitar, Jim Ashley - bass and vocalist, Darlina Metz , International Wines: Wine-tasting - free to the public, Featuring our gallery potters: John Peterson, Linda Morton, Barbara Swain and Zac Medler well. The Maccauley's with Food for Thought.

Goddard Building: The Mundell family, current owners of Toys Forever Models and Hobbies, and new owners of this building will be onsite to discuss plans for this last large scale Walnut St. renovation project.

Toys Forever Model and Hobbies: Plastic Model Club, special theme model display

BSU Center for Media Design: The Institute for Digital Intermedia Arts (IDIA) will showcase recent artworks and interfaces that connect physical and virtual spaces. These works have been widely exhibited including venues such as the NatLab (former Philips factory) in Eindhoven, Netherlands; the Boston Cyberarts Festival; and the Villaggio Fogliano Festival delle Arti in Italy. IDIA Lab will present two interactive works which can be performed by gallery viewers connected to a virtual world.

The Artist Within: Photographs by Ohio artist Dave Liggett, food, live music, the studio will be open for pottery painting, Nancy Barnett/Beyond I Can, and Jim Keirien on sight charcoal drawings, Debra Dragoo's Green Glam, Cinda Dior-Fiber Art


Old National Trust Parking Lot:

* Klayvision- ceramics exhibit
* MudPics- custom art and logo display
* A.S. Koons Photography- Wildlife and Historic Photos
* The Ball State Fine Arts League- sale of student artwork, handmade items and photographs
* BSU Art Department Faculty pottery throwing demonstration.
* Ken Baily-photography
* Cornerstone Center for the Arts- chalk drawing and instrument petting zoo
* MatMar WoodWorks- turned wood and wood products
* Jeff Charlton- photo display
* Quilters Toy Box-quilting and embellishment demo
* Dee Harris- DeeArts: Original pen & ink Afro-American Art Work & DeSigns


Old National Trust Lot Stage

Performance Stage:
5-7:30- Cornerstone Center for the Arts Performers
7:30- 8:00- Ancient Arts Bellydancers
8:15-9:00- Premium Sound (formerly CHS Jazz)


400 Blk South Walnut St

Cassella's Kitchen: Visit the east coast with seafood sensations prepared by Chef Heather Pier. Sample complimentary wines provided by Wilson Winery. Enjoy a musical serenade from the Muncie Symphony.

Art & Soul by Phoebe LLC at 409 S. Walnut St.: Phoebe Wentz, award winning emerging artist of The Muncie Artist Guild will have paintings on display along side other members of The Muncie Artists Guild displaying their art in several medias. Joe Gutshall, beautifully detailed, wood burned etchings of Native Americans, Michael and Kara Duquette-mixed media, sculpture and paintings,


100 Blk West Charles

White River Landing: Featuring local artist in Cabin and live music from 7-9 on the patio


100 Blk East Charles

Fickle Peach: Where Craft Beer is Liquid Art!

Two Johnny's: Featured local artists


300 Blk N. High St

Muncie Visitors Bureau: "Face of Garfield" Garfield Art Exhibit by Jim Davis

Muncie City Hall: City Hall Art Collection Tour

Local Architect, cultural supporter and art enthusiast Jim Godden, will lead a public tour of the Muncie City Hall art collection during this year's ArtsWalk event on Thursday, September 24th, 2009. Mayor Sharon McShurley arranged to have offices and lobbies open for the rare viewing.

The nineteen artists represented in the collection were all residents or former residents of Delaware County when the City Hall building was completed in 1991 and include paintings and prints by Francis and Beulah Brown, Dave Dale, Jim Faulkner, George Mock, Hill Sharp and other professionals. The pieces were selected by The Muncie City Hall Art Committee, comprised of local professionals, collectors and art educators from the Muncie area. Acquisition of the collection was funded by grants from The Community Foundation, Ontario Corporation Foundation and other interested friends. The original brochure states:

"The Committee has presented this collection as a gift to the citizens of Muncie for the enjoyment and pleasure of all who view it. "

To participate in this unique opportunity, interested citizens are asked to meet at the reception desk on the first floor of City Hall at 6 PM on Thursday, September 24th. Copies of the brochure will be distributed. Limited parking will be available in the City Hall parking lot, or in the Star Financial Bank lot next door. City Hall is located at 300 N. High Street.


100 Blk N. High St.

Savages Ale House- Downtown's Newest Pub

EldenWare- Gallery display of various local Artists

Hans Heintzelman- tours of available commercial and residential space


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Muncie Music Fest Extended to Two Days!

Over 100 artists submitted to our call out for musical acts, and it was hard to sift through all the great bands. It was such a hard time, that an extra day was added. Muncie MusicFest now will feature over 60 bands on Friday, October 9, and Saturday, October 10! Rich Hardesty, Jenn Cristy, and Soraia are just a FEW of the musical acts ready to rock downtown.

Muncie MusicFest is a gated, all-ages event that rocks downtown Muncie, IN once a year, featuring a host of local talent on multiple outdoor stages and events in all of our downtown music venues.

But the planning is not over yet! We are asking YOU to come lend a hand. Volunteers are needed this Wednesday, September 23 to help get the word out. Come to Muncie Downtown Development, located at 300 South Walnut in Muncie, Indiana. Not only do you get to help out a great program, but there will also be FREE BEER AND PIZZA to all who help out. It can't get better than that, right?

This year, we are also opening the gates to local vendors and businesses. This is a community event, to which we would like all facets of our community represented. If you would like your business to partake in the festivities, we ask that you visit our website and contact us there.

Get excited! Muncie MusicFest is less than one month away, and we can't wait to see you there!


Presented by Muncie Downtown Development, and brought to you by WLBC 104.1 and MAX 93.5 and 96.7. Sponsored by MSD Recycling Initiative, FMMusic, and The Good Beer Show.


###


For band information, links, map, and all the latest news of the Fest, please visit munciemusicfest.com or contact Cheryl Crowder at (765)282-7897.




Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

The Living Room Reopens This Sunday in Downtown Muncie

Hey Living Room Fans! As most of you are aware, last April the Living Room closed its doors for what many feared would be the last time. Fortunately, it wasn't, and the Living Room is back and ready to rock!

The Living Room will be run by the Ball State campus church, The Revolution. The church has located its office in the old green room but the rest of the venue is still your favorite venue, bright orange, yellow red and blue!

We'll be starting things out slow for the first few months, we are aiming to have one show a month until we can get really organized and get a good group of volunteers together.

If you are an artist that has played at the Living Room before and want to do a show in the future, contact us on here or e-mail the new general manager Nick Hewitt at nmhewitt [at] bsu.edu. We are excited about working with both new and old Living Room Favorites.

If you are a fan of the Living Room and are wondering what to expect, your experience won't be too different from before. We're in the process of booking new artists for shows in October, November and December.

This weekend we will be having Living Room Favorites Cliff Ritchey, Joel Levi, and TJ Fields return for our Grand Reopening Show with Eight Stories High, Save Our Syndicate and Jim Gedda. Tickets are $2 and doors open at 5:30pm.

So drop us a line on the page, shoot us an e-mail or just come on out this weekend!

See you soon!

Upcoming Shows
the grand reopening - 09/13/09
the living room is back and we're celebrating with a night of local favorites....

Sunday, Sept. 13, 2009

TJ Fields 6:00-6:30

Save Our Syndicate 6:30-7:00

Joel Levi 7:00-7:30

Cliff Richey 7:30-8:00

8 Stories High 8:00-8:30

Ben Clark 8:30-9:00

Hope to see ya there!!!


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Live Jazz Tonight will perform at 2 Johnnys on Friday

Live Jazz Tonight will perform at 2 Johnny's on Friday, Sept. 18, from 8 to 11 p.m.

From their website:

"Live Jazz Tonight is a Muncie-based band featuring veteran drummer Charlie Owen (from left), vibraphonist Tim Van Cleave, pianist Dr. Phil Cooley, and Paul Rhine on double-bass and flute. The group formed eight years ago. Repertoire includes tunes by Coltrane, Charlie Parker, Modern Jazz Quartet and original compositions by Paul Rhine."

For more information visit www.livejazztonight.net.



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Lil' Daddy's Downtown Diner Now Open!

Now there's another place to Eat Downtown! Lil' Daddy's Downtown Diner opened Monday at 118 N. Walnut Street in Downtown Muncie (former location of The Spot).

From their facebook profile: "Our diner is a friendly place where all is welcome. Home cooked food, friendly folks, and prices you can afford are our goals. Where you are family."

Downtown Muncie sends a warm welcome, and wishes its latest restaurant lots of luck in their new venture.



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Cassella's Kitchen Hosting Food Drive for Second Harvest

Cassella's Kitchen is pleased to announce our partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana. September is national food drive month. Please help Cassella's Kitchen collect non-perishable foods through the entire month of September.

For each food item you donate you will receive a 5% discount. Receive up to 25% off any individual item purchased through the month of September. No limits. Return with as many donations as you like! Promotionally priced items not included.
Thanks to everyone for their donations so far!

Cassella's Kitchen is located in downtown Muncie, at the corner of Walnut and Charles streets.



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Living Lightly Fair Returns to Minnetrista

Living Lightly at Minnetrista, a FREE resource fair for sustainable lifestyles, will take place Saturday, September 19 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., with free admission and free parking.

For the third year in a row, Living Lightly will offer practical tips for greener living, alternative energy, recycling and healthier environments. The fair features workshops, numerous presentations covering a variety of sustainable topics, children’s activities, local food, musical entertainment, a green market place and much more!

The keynote speaker will be Mike McGrath, host of National Public Radios’s weekly radio show You Bet Your Garden. His keynote presentation, “The Seven Secrets of Successful Organic Gardeners,” will share the secrets that every good organic gardener should know including easy-to-learn tips, feeding soil, adding beneficial life to your garden, and more. The presentation will take place inside Minnetrista in the Indiana Room from 10 a.m. – 11: 15 a.m.

For more information, visit livinglightlyfair.org or minnetrista.net.

Living Lightly Workshops

Workshop: "Wind and Solar Power for the Home"
by Eric Cotton
Saturday, Sept. 19, 8 - 9:50 a.m.
Inside Minnetrista, Cantina

This introduction to renewable energy for the home will begin with a presentation on the basic components of solar and wind electric systems.

Participants will learn about site evaluation, planning, and introductory system design. The group will then be able to work hands-on with small wind turbines and solar panels – testing voltages and currents and looking at components to see how they go into complete systems.

The workshop will end after a Q & A session. The first 25 registrants will receive digital multi-meters for voltage testing and other uses.

Eric Cotton has been using renewable energy to live since 2005. A partner with ECI Wind and Solar (Fairmount), Eric has been working in Indiana to bring clean renewable energy to Hoosiers. He is a founding member of the Indiana Renewable Energy Association, which is an Indiana non-profit dedicated to educating Hoosiers on renewable energy.

Workshop: "How to Reduce Your Home Heating Bills: Separating Fact from Fiction"
by Dr. Bill Hill
Saturday, Sept. 19, 2:30 – 4 p.m.
Inside Minnetrista, Cantina

Want to reduce your home heating bill? Put away the caulk gun, forget the weather-stripping, don't drop the ceiling, and by all means-don't invest in replacement windows. Research has shown that none of these means will significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.

Learn what does work and why it is impossible to diagnose any building without the proper tools. You'll also get to look at the tools that building scientists use to trace the paths by which tiny air pressure differences move energy and moisture through a house.

Dr. Bill Hill began his energy career in the early 1970s, building and promoting solar energy systems. He has been working to make homes more energy-efficient ever since, and along the way he and his colleagues across the country have become very proficient at making homes not just more efficient in their use of energy, but more durable and comfortable as well. Bill now heads his own consulting firm, W. W. Hill & Associates, specializing in building science, building diagnostics, and the training of weatherization professionals.

Both workshops are free and open to the public. Pre-registration is preferred but not required! To register call (765) 213-3549.

---

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



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Charley's Aunt at Muncie Civic Theatre

Muncie Civic Theatre presents Charley's Aunt on the Mainstage Theatre, September 11th-12th, 18th-20th, 24th-26th. Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm and the Sunday matinee on September 20th is at 2:00pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for college students and younger.

This classic farce of mistaken identity comes to life on Muncie Civic Theatre's Mainstage. Charley and Jack love Amy and Kitty. Amy is about to go away, and Charley thinks he may miss his opportunity to ask for her hand in marriage. Then he discovers that his aunt, a Brazilian woman he doesn't know, is coming for lunch. As is the custom, a chaperone is needed and the aunt can fulfill the role while each man asks his lady to marry him.

Naturally, things don't go quite as planned. Donna Lucia, the aunt, is late, and their friend, Lord Fancourt Babberley ("Babbs") shows up. The guys see no other alternative, so Babbs has to dress up and pretend to be Donna Lucia in order for Jack and Charley to have any shot at winning over the ladies. A wild afternoon of young love, old love, angry uncles, and the story of a not-so-typical aunt ensues in this hilarious classic by Brandon Thomas. Directed by Marty Grubbs.

Call 288.PLAY to purchase your tickets over the phone or stop by the Box Office, Tuesday-Friday from Noon-6:00pm at 216 E. Main Street in Muncie. The Box Office opens one hour prior to each performance for walk-in sales.



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

Cast List:

Jack Chesney - Drew Eberhard
Charley Wykeham - Ed Conley
Lord Fancourt Babberley - Robby Tompkins
Kitty Verdun - Linda Sherfick
Amy Spettigue - Skylar Etchison
Sir Francis Chesney - Todd Sandman
Stephen Spettigue - Bob Green
Brassett - Jeff Shull
Donna Lucia D'Alvadorez - Lori Lloyd
Ela Delahay - Caitie Noller


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Cornerstone in Downtown Muncie to Host Governor's Arts Awards

The 2009 Governor's Arts Awards will be held on September 25th at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Governor Mitch Daniels, the Indiana Arts Commission, and the City of Muncie will honor the following recipients for their outstanding achievements in and contributions to the arts in Indiana:

Angela Brown, Indianapolis

Ball Brothers Foundation, Muncie

George & Frances Ball Foundation, Muncie

International Violin Competition, Indianapolis

Sweetwater Sound, Fort Wayne

Vectren Corporation, Evansville

Initiated in 1973, the Governor's Arts Awards honors artists, individuals, educators, organizations, businesses, and communities for their efforts to further public awareness of the arts.

The Schedule of Events is as follows:

4:30 - 6:00 p.m. - Arts Expose & Reception sponsored by the Community Foundation of Muncie & Delaware Co.
6:00 - 7:45 p.m. - Formal Dinner
8:00 - 9:30 p.m. - Awards Ceremony
9:30 - 11:00 p.m. - Afterglow



For more information, or to purchase tickets, go to http://www.cornerstonearts.org.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Join Your Friends in Downtown Muncie for First Thursday Gallery Walk

Explore Downtown Muncie's many galleries at our monthly First Thursday gallery walk, Sept. 3, from 5 to 8pm. The galleries simultaneously launch their monthly exhibits on the first Thursday evenings of every month, with meet-the-artist receptions and extended hours, live music and light refreshments.

ArtsWalk, a larger arts event in coordination with Ball State University, will take place on September 24th this year. The ArtsWalk event normally takes place during First Thursday in October.

This year's Artswalk date has been changed to Thursday, Sept. 24, to kick off the Governor's Arts Awards celebration. The Governor's Arts Awards ceremony will take place the following evening at Cornerstone Center for the Arts.

This month's exhibits will be opening at the following galleries (in alphabetical order by gallery) during First Thursday:


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

September at the Artist Within will feature the photography of Ohioan Dave Liggett. The gallery will have the First Thursday opening reception September 3rd from 5-8pm.
READ MORE...


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

Artworks featured exhibit for September is "Jon Becker's Masks." There will be an opening reception during First Thursday, September 3, from 5 to 8 p.m.
READ MORE...


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

Every First Thursday is Redtail Day at Blue Bottle Coffee Shop. Stop in anytime during the day, or during First Thursday in the evening, and help support Redtail Conservancy. You can also make donations online at fortheland.org.


Cornerstone Gallery ~ 520 East Main Street ~ 765-281-9503, ext. 15

Cornerstone Center for the Arts offers an arts gallery on the second floor, and frequently displays the works of student artists. The gallery is open during First Thursdays. Cornerstone will also host this year's Governor's Arts Awards on Friday, September 25. Visit the Cornerstone website for more 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 is open during First Thursday, and 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.


FB Fogg ~ 418 East Main Street ~ 765-289-7464

Don't forget to stop into FB Fogg, gallery of world renowned paper sculptures, handmade papercrafts, unique gifts, apparel and otherworldly treasures. Visit the FB Fogg website for more info.


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

Margaret J. Cartmell Cantrell is the featured artist at Gallery 308 in September. Her exhibit, "Carte da Trionfi," opens on First Thursday, September 3, with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m.
READ MORE...



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

Gordy's Fine Art & Framing will host two events in September. Watercolor paintings by Muncie artist, Paul Laseau, in an exhibit titled "Porch Encounters," will be on display Sept 3 - 22. There will be an opening reception during First Thursday. Acoustic guitarist, Jason Cooper, will provide music during the event.

Then during ArtsWalk on Sept. 24, a group exhibit including artists Kim Anderson, Carol Burt, Eric Ernstberger, Jim Faulkner, Charlene George, Brian Gordy, Paul Laseau, Alan Patrick, Margie Prim and Carol Strock Wasson will grace the walls & display areas of the gallery, and will continue through October 31st.
READ MORE...


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.

-----

Please visit all our other downtown Muncie businesses, many have extended hours or special events during First Thursdays. 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.



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Dave Liggett's Photography Featured at The Artist Within

September at the Artist Within will feature the photography of Ohioan Dave Liggett.

The gallery will have the First Thursday opening reception September 3rd from 5-8pm.

A native of Circleville, Ohio, Dave Liggett has been taking pictures for as long as he can remember. Dave loves to combine photography with travel and some of his favorite subjects are landscapes, animals, people, and decaying buildings.

Dave's favorite camera to use is his 4x5--through which he exposes one 4"x5" inch sheet of film at a time--and he enjoys the craftsmanship of film photography which includes developing and printing his own black-and-white negatives. Digital photography has become a necessity in order to meet the quick turnaround times involved with his freelance work.

Dave shows his work mostly in the central Ohio area but individual pieces are exhibited around the world. Some of Dave's photography has been published by National Geographic Kids' Magazine, The New York Times, Africa Geographic, and The World Atlas of Great Apes and Their Conservation. See more of Dave's photography at www.DaveLiggett.com .

The exhibit will be on display through Sept. 26.


ArtsWalk, which is traditionally the First Thursday in October, will be held in conjunction with the "Governor's Arts Awards". This year is the first time the prestigious award presentation will be held in a city other than Indianapolis. The actual award ceremony is to be held on Friday, September 25th at Cornerstone Center for the Arts.

The yearly ArtsWalk will become the "Governor's ArtsWalk" and will be held from 5-9pm on Thursday, September 24th. Live entertainment, art exhibits and demonstrations will fill the streets of Downtown as we showcase the arts that are such a vibrant part of our community. Please make plans to join us as the Artist Within encourages you to express your creativity painting pottery at our studio...wear your Artist Within Tee and paint "Studio Free".


The popularity of "Artist Within" tee shirts has prompted us to expand the promotion.

Purchase the $10 tee shirt or wear one from camp to take advantage of our September specials. Wear an "Artist Within" or "ArtCamp/ClayCamp" tee-shirt ANY day and you will receive 20% off the piece of pottery you paint! Check the September calendar for "T-Shirt Tuesdays" and other "Wear Your T/Studio Free" days too.


Throwing lessons have become more popular; plan ahead for the best choice of times... we have hand building classes too. Two throw and the second is half price! Already know how to throw? Call to rent the wheel and throw on your own or to schedule a lesson.


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Two Exhibits at Gordys in September

Please mark your September calendars for the biggest "Art Month," in recent history of Muncie. Gordy Fine Art & Framing, along with the other galleries downtown, will have our usual First Thursday Art Openings on September 3rd from 5 to 8 PM.

Three weeks later, on Thursday, September 24th, from 5 to 9 PM,we will all join forces to kick off ArtsWalk 2009. This year, our annual art celebration will be the first of 3 days celebrating the arts as part of the Governor's Arts Awards. Needless to say, we will all be putting our very best efforts into our gallery exhibitions.

Please come to both events and enjoy excellent art, great snacks, a glass of wine or sparkling water, music and conversation. It would be a lovely time to invite out-of-town friends or family to visit Muncie.

Paul Laseau, Porch Encounters, Sept 3 - 22, 2009

Laseau, After the Party Feast your eyes on a new series of watercolor paintings by Muncie artist, Paul Laseau. Twenty six images lure with crisp white details and shady scenes that call the viewer to enter and sit in the cool breezeways of yesteryear. Laseau, architect, BSU professor emeritus, author, traveler and artist will be on hand to greet visitors and answer questions during his opening on Sept. 3rd, from 5 to 8 PM.

Acoustic guitarist, Jason Cooper, will provide music during the event.


Featured Artists of 2009, Gordy Fine Art & Framing

An outstanding group exhibit including artists Kim Anderson, Carol Burt, Eric Ernstberger, Jim Faulkner, Charlene George, Brian Gordy, Paul Laseau, Alan Patrick, Margie Prim and Carol Strock Wasson will grace the walls & display areas of our gallery for ArtsWalk 2009 - Thursday, Sept 24th, 5- 9 PM - and continue through October 31st.

Landscapes and still life paintings in oils and watercolors, abstract paintings in acrylics, pottery and clay sculptures by the featured artists will be supported with prints, bronze sculptures, portraits, charcoal and pencil drawings by other artists in special display areas. A complete visual feast for our guests awaits, along with sweet and salty nibbles, wine and stimulating conversation.

Artists will be introduced at 6 PM. Music provided by acoustic guitarist, Jason Cooper, throughout the evening. Clay demonstration. Tour of newly remodeled wood and gilding shops at 7 PM.
Please call 284-8422 to register for tour.



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

John Becker's Masks at Artworks Gallery in September

Artworks featured exhibit for September is "Jon Becker's Masks." There will be an opening reception during First Thursday, September 3, from 5 to 8 p.m.

Jonathan Becker is an actor, teacher, director and artist. In addition to acting and teaching, he is considered a master mask maker and is the owner/operator of www.theater-masks.com a full service production shop creating masks and puppets for clients worldwide. Masks from his studio are currently being used by educational institutions, professional theatres and individual artists in over 30 countries.

He is a master teacher of mask in the Collaborative International Acting with Masks Program involving Oslo University College, DAMU in Prague, Nanjing University in China and Ball State University. Jonathan is currently an Assistant professor of Acting and Movement
at Ball State University.



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

First Thursday at Gallery 308 Features Carte da Trionfi by Margaret Cantrell

Margaret J. Cartmell Cantrell is the featured artist at Gallery 308 in September. Her exhibit, "Carte da Trionfi," opens on First Thursday, September 3, with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m.

Cantrell has redesigned the major arcana of carte da trionfi (tarot cards, 0 through 21), adding her own interpretation in digitally rendered giclee.

The Hoosier artist's work has been seen at other venues around Muncie in recent months.

The opening reception is free. The public is invited to enjoy light refreshments while perusing Cantrell's work.

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.



Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.

Last Call for ArtsWalk Information!

The deadline for submitting information for any and all ArtsWalk events and activities is Monday, September 1st to be included in the Star Press special pull-out section.

Galleries, entertainment, special events and anyone participating in the annual ArtsWalk event on Thursday, September 24th, needs to contact Cheryl Crowder by phone at (765) 282-7897 or email chercrowder [AT] gmail [DOT] com.

Information may also be dropped off at the Downtown Development office, at the corner of Adams and Walnut streets in downtown Muncie.

This year's ArtsWalk is being held early as part of the Governor's Arts Awards celebration.

For more information on Governor's Arts Awards events, see cornerstonearts.org.

For more information on ArtsWalk, stay tuned to munciedowntown.com


Find Downtown Muncie on myspace and facebook and follow us on twitter.