NewsSection

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Downtown Community Cleanup Set for May 30-31

Heart of the City will be hosting walking tours of the downtown area for incoming Ball State University students beginning the first week of June.

We want to put our best foot forward as we welcome these families to our city, so we are hosting a Downtown Cleanup May 30th & 31st, from 9:00AM to 3:00PM.

What we need most is volunteers, but there are also some costs we need to cover.

The project will entail trash pickup, and pressure washing sidewalks, curbs and gutters.

Muncie Sanitary District will be running street sweepers, providing materials for trash pickup and hauling away trash.

Donations are requested for equipment rental, fuel, cleaning supplies, and refreshments for volunteers. Some businesses have already stepped forward to help fulfill these needs:

A Rental Service - (765) 282-2386 - is providing half of their pressure washer fleet, and at a steep discount.

The Fickle Peach has offered to cover the Sanitary District's costs for running the street sweeper.

We'll add more businesses to the list as they come on board.

To volunteer or make donations, visit http://www.lightupmuncie.org.

Donations to Heart of the City/Downtown Development are tax-deductible.

Here's the schedule:

Saturday, May 30th, 9:00AM-3:00PM
We will be start at the E 500 block of Main Street, in front of Cornerstone Center for the Arts, and sweep west to the E 100 Block.

Sunday, May 30th, 9:00AM-3:00PM
One team will be start at the E 100 block of Charles Street, in front of Fickle Peach, and sweep east to the E 300 Block, also covering the S 500 block of Walnut Street. A second team will start at the S 100 block of Walnut Street, and sweep south towards Charles street.

For more information, contact Ty Morton, (765) 749-0652 or visit www.lightupmuncie.org.



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Southside and Central Students Featured at The Artist Within

Longtime local art teacher and co-owner of the Artist Within, Bob Hartley opens their gallery space to local high school artists. May at the Artist Within features artwork by advanced art students from Muncie Central and Muncie Southside.

Art instructors Anny Delk, Britt Husman, Helen Zacek and Christine Royster have selected "the best of the best" from their advanced two dimensional and three dimensional classes.

The show will include drawings, paintings, prints, sculpture, jewelry and pottery. An opening reception is planned for first Thursday, May 7 from 5-8 pm. The show runs from May 5-30, 2009.

Heidi J. Hale, local jewelry maker, is teaching jewelry classes at the Artist Within.
Get a group of four or more and set up a class just for you.

The Artist Within will continue to offer "Art Clay Silver" workshops, but Marti wants you to pick the date and time. She will come from Indy for as few as four students! Call to set up a Class.

It is not too early to make plans for Summer Art Camp. This year's theme is "Artists Go Green" The Artist Within is taking applications for "Clay Camp 2009". "Session 1" camp for 6-8 year olds will be held M-F June 15-19 from 9am-noon every day; "Session 2" camp for 9-12 year olds will be held M-F July 13-17 from 9am-noon every day. Karen Fisher, of the Art Mart, is offering "Going Green", a one week camp for 6-12 year olds emphasizing recycling, reusing and re-purposing materials while painting, sculpting and printmaking. Her classes are to be held at the Village store July 6-10. All art campers will have their work displayed at Gallery 308 in August.

Contact the Artist Within, 765-289-7895 or the Art Mart, 765-284-2919 for more information or to register your child. Discounts for families with multiple campers and for attending both camps are available. Register and pay before June 1, 2009 and save $25!

Adult hand building clay classes and throwing instruction are available, but limited. Call to check availability. Already know how to throw...rent the wheel for $10/hour and we'll include the bisque firing!

For these activities or to sign up for classes and workshops call the Artist Within at 765-289-7895 or visit us online at www.theartistwithininc.com.


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Wednesday, April 29, 2009

My Name Is Jerry Screening in Downtown Muncie Indiana

A screening for "My Name is Jerry" will be shown at the Horizon Convention Center in downtown Muncie, IN on May 7th at 8pm.

Check out our new trailer here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DSkPSn0r30

Someone special to the film will be there and his name is...oh what is it?...I think it starts with a D...oh yeah, Doug Jones will be there!

There will be a VIP event at 6:30pm before the event to hang out and meet Doug, the director, and other big contributors to the film. It's a great chance to mingle and meet some cool people involved with the film before we all get to see the screening! Those tickets are $35 and can be purchased right now atwww.mynameisjerry.com/tickets.

After the VIP event comes the screening at 8:00pm. If you want to only attend the movie screening you can purchase your tickets for only $10 right now atwww.mynameisjerry.com/tickets.

Following the screening we're going to want to get some feed back from you guys. So make sure you get your tickets because your opinion is important to us!

This screening will be an important fundraiser for the future of this film, so we really need your help to spread the word. Please tell anyone you know in the Indiana area who might enjoy a unique night out to see a great film. Visit www.mynameisjerry.com/tickets for more information.

The following cast/crew members will be at the screening coming up on Thursday, May 7th, 2009:

* Doug Jones (BSU Alumni/star Pan's Labyrinth, Hellboy, & Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer) as Jerry
* Katyln Carlson as Jordan
* Steven Yeun as Chaz
* Levi Holloway as Slim
* Dwandra Lampkin as Gina
* Crew Members: Morgan Mead the Director, David Hamilton the Writer, Nathan Wilson the Director of Photography, Bruce Economou the Executive Producer, Patricia Daehn the Costume Supervisor, and the list goes on!

PRE-ORDER YOUR TICKETS NOW. A limited number of tickets are available for the event so we are encouraging anyone interested in attending to pre-order to make sure you get a seat.

The last day for VIP ticket sales is this Friday, May 1st. If you are interested in attending, please make sure to purchase tickets before this date!

TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION AT www.mynameisjerry.com/tickets. If you have any trouble with the site, feel free to contact us a jerry@mynameisjerry.com.

See you there!


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Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Free Friday Night Movies Lineup Announced

Heart of the City, MSD Education Initiative and WLBC are pleased to announce the 7th season of Free Friday Night Movies Downtown. Movies will be shown every Friday in June, July and August in the 400 block of Walnut Street at dusk.

Local not-for-profit organizations are encouraged to volunteer for concession sales and to assist with set-up and clean-up. A portion of the proceeds of concession sales will benefit the evening's volunteer organization. We are also seeking entertainment groups to volunteer their performance for 1 hour prior to the movies.

If your not-for-profit organization or entertainment group would like to volunteer for "Free Friday Night Movies" please contact Cheryl Crowder @ (765) 282-7897 or chercrowder@gmail.com

June
5- Madagascar 2
12- High School Musical 3
19- Speed Racer
26- Kung Fu Panda

July
3- TBA
10- Superman
17- The Incredible Hulk
24- The Tale Of Despereaux
31- Perfect Game

August
7- Ironman
14- Ghostrider
21- Hancock
28- Indiana Jones


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ecoREHAB Students to Present Designs for Rehabilitated Homes

You are invited to see final presentations for the "ecoREHAB" architecture class: Friday, May 1, 1:30-4:00 p.m. in the City Hall auditorium.

ecoREHAB is a new non-profit organization to demonstrate affordable & sustainable rehabilitation of existing homes. "ecoREHAB" will partner with the city, Ball State University, and Historic Landmarks Foundation to rehab houses and to create a Design Assistance Center for homeowners.

Already, Jonathan Spodek is teaching an architecture studio which revolves around ecoREHAB. The students have field measured a dozen homes from our unsafe buildings, drawn plans and elevations and assessed existing conditions. On Friday they will present designs for the rehab of these homes.

ecoREHAB has been awarded a grant from Community Development to rehab one of these homes as an initial demonstration project. It has also become part of BSU's "Immersive Learning" program.

Please come for all or part of the presentations and see what the students have come up with, and give them feedback. Bring anyone else who may have an interest.


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Garden Party Tea and Open House at Cassella's Kitchen

Cassella's Kitchen is hosting a Garden Party Tea and Open House on Sunday May 3rd, from 1 to 5pm at the shop, located at the corner of Walnut and Charles streets in downtown Muncie.

Enjoy refreshments, Music and save 25% on your total purchase - just in time for Mother's Day and the wedding season.

Ten percent of all sales (excluding promotionally priced items) will benefit Muncie Symphony League.



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Registrations Accepted for Camp Minnetrista

It's back! Camp Minnetrista is more exciting than ever this year. Due to last year's popularity "Cool Sports" and the "Mysterious Minnetrista" classes will be returning. Also, Camp Minnetrista will offer two photography classes, "Photography Fun" for the younger children and "Photo Editing" for older children. Campers will be going on several exciting field trips this year. The "Fables, Fantasies, and Faeries" class will be going to see the new Harry Potter movie. The "Earth Power" class will be visiting the Giant, an underground house that runs by alternative energy. And the "Awesome Astronomy" class will sleep over at Minnetrista for a night of stargazing.

There is much, much more. For parents who are looking for an exciting and educational experience for their children this summer, Camp Minnetrista is an excellent opportunity. Taking place on the Minnetrista grounds, the four, week-long day camps are from June 15 to July 31. Camp Minnetrista is for kids Pre-K to those who are entering sixth grade in the fall of 2009.

"Camp Minnetrista is a great choice because it gives parents a safe, fun, and educational place to drop their kids off while at work during the summer," said Jennifer Peters, camp director. "All of our camp teachers have experience in education, which in return reflects the classes offered here at Minnetrista. They not only provide fun but also learning for the children."

This year Minnetrista is offering a deal for parents who sign their child up for a full day of camp classes. Campers can come one week or four weeks and can choose to attend half day or full day camps. "We also offer a discounted scholarship price for those parents who can't afford the regular rate," said Peters.

Full-day campers will participate in classes and activities from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Campers attending Full-Day Camp should bring a sack lunch and drink. Minnetrista will provide morning and afternoon snacks for all campers. Half-day campers can choose a morning or afternoon session for the week. Morning campers will participate from 8 a.m. - noon. The afternoon campers will participate from 1-5 p.m. For afternoon campers, extended care will be available from 5-6 p.m. for $25 per child, per week.

For Members, Camp Minnetrista costs $70 each week for Half-Day Camp and $120 each week for Full-Day Camp. For Non-Members, Camp costs $85 each week for Half-Day Camp and $150 each week for Full-Day Camp. "All of our camp classes are centered around Minnetrista's nature, history, gardens, and arts programming," said Peters.

There is also an early registration discount available for Camp Minnetrista. All kids who register before May 1 receive $15 off the Full-Day price and $10 off the Half-Day price. For those who register after May 1, the Friends and Siblings discount will provide a savings for families. For every child that pays full price (after May 1), a friend or sibling receives $15 off the Full-Day price and $10 off the Half-Day price. To receive the discount, both children must sign up at the same time, with one payment.

"Your children will gain friendships and education all while having fun at Camp Minnetrista," said Peters. "Youth Volunteers provide mentoring for the younger children and each child will receive a free Camp Minnetrista water bottle." To receive a camp brochure by mail or for more information on Camp Minnetrista scholarships, call (765) 282-4848. For more information about Camp Minnetrista, contact Jennifer Peters at 765-287-3551

REGISTRATION DEADLINE! One week prior to start of class. For more

information contact Jennifer Peters at (765) 287-3551 or jpeters [at] 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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Downtown Community Meeting About Indiana Main Street

Indiana Main Street will be the focus of the final Downtown Business Council meeting on Wednesday, April 29th, at 4:30 pm at Muncie Civic Theatre. Refreshments will be available in the lobby.

Guest speakers will be Indiana Main Street program manager Shae Young, and Darrin Murrell of Historic Farmland USA.

After the Main Street program, Bill Morgan will give a presentation on Muncie's Facade Restoration, and Ann Johnson will talk about Muncie's pursuit of state recognition as an arts and cultural district. Robby Tompkins will speak about the recently formed Muncie Arts and Culture Council.

Anyone with an interest in downtown Muncie is urged to attend this meeting, as we take the first step toward becoming a Main Street community. The public will have the opportunity ask questions about Indiana Main Street, and to learn more about how the downtown neighborhood, as well as the entire Muncie community, can benefit from the program.

The Muncie Downtown Business Council and Heart of the City organizations voted in March, 2009 to join forces and apply for Main Street designation as a combined group.

The group will keep Heart of the City’s name and not-for-profit status, and will maintain the Downtown Business Council’s membership base. Meetings will continue to take place on the last Wednesday of every month, at 3pm in the Star Press building conference room.


ABOUT INDIANA MAIN STREET

Main Street was created by the National Trust as an approach to commercial district revitalization, a methodology that combines historic preservation with economic development. Today, it advocates preservation-based commercial district revitalization as an ethic that all communities can use to revive their traditional commercial areas.

Main Street uses a “four point approach” to provide a framework for downtown development, focusing on organization, promotion, design and economic restructuring.

There are no fees or financial obligations to become a Main Street community.

Program benefits include fundraising opportunities and increased eligibility for improvement grants, networking with other Main Street communities and valuable resources, technical assistance provided through a partnership with Ball State University’s center for Historic Preservation, as well as access to a building site locator database.

Other recognized Main Street communities in Indiana include Farmland, Madison, Bloomington, Indianapolis, Richmond, and dozens more.

For more information on Main Street, visit www.ocra.in.gov or www.mainstreet.org.

For more information about Downtown Muncie, and updates on our Main Street project, visit www.munciedowntown.com or www.mainstreetmuncie.com .



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Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Spring Zing Activities Schedule for April 25th

The 3nd Annual Spring Zing will be held on Saturday April 25th from 10am-5pm on Walnut Street in Downtown Muncie. Admission is $3 for adults; kids free.

This year's event will focus on ways for parents to explore children's interests through activities that can be enjoyed in Muncie all summer long.

Events and activities schedule:

Muncie Sanitary District: DO the Blue! blue bag toss, cornhole, ladder golf, hulla hoop contest, face painting, balloons

Solutions Ramp Park BMX Trick Bike demo
Sponsored by Wishbone Gifts
12:00,1:00, 2:00, 3:00. 4:00

Toys Forever Remote Control Toy demo
12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30

Toys Forever RC Track Car Racing

Pumpkinvine Express Train
Sponsored by Fickle Peach

Youth Talent Exhibition
10:00-10:30- Arteggo Luckett Dancer
10:30-11:00- Muncie Ballet Studio
11:00- 12:00- TBA
12:00-1:00- Creating Constellations
1:00-2:00- Jack Hood
2:00- 4:00- CHS Jazz
4:00-5:00- Zepher

MITS: Pretend to be a Trolley Driver w/ photo
Toys are Forever Kite Flying
Solutions Ramp Park
AMA Remote Control Airplane Demo
Free Friday Night Movie Info
Shelter Insurance duck pond
Muncie Ballet Studio
Summer Art Camp with Artist Within and Art Mart
Cornerstone Center for the Arts- musical petting zoo
Muncie Public Library



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Sunday, April 19, 2009

Taste of Muncie Winners Announced

The winners have been announced for the 23rd Annual "A Taste of Muncie" held at Cornerstone Center for the Arts on Sunday, April 19, 2009. Thank you to our Sponsors, WLBC, WERK, MAX, ESPN Radio, Indiana Michigan Power, Old National Bank, Indiana Arts Commission, all of the participants, volunteers and staff who worked extremely hard to prepare for todays event.

There were an estimated 508 people through the doors for the event which aims to highlight Restaurants, and Caterers from Muncie and surrounding areas.

The winners for this year were:

Best Appetizer: Vera Mae's for their Shrimp Toast
Best Side: Bird's Smokehouse for their Corn Casserole
Best Entree: Ruby Tuesday's for their Ribs
Best Beverage: Coffee Junkiez for their Assorted Coffees & Fruit Freezes
Best Sandwich: Ruby Tuesday's for their Ruby Minis
Best Salad: Carino's Italian Grill for their Italian Wedge Salad
Best Dessert: Dairy Dream for thier Specialty Sundaes
Best Soup: Scotty's Brewhouse for thier Brewhouse Potato Bacon Soup

And the Best of Taste went to:

Dairy Dream of Albany, Inc.

The 24th Annual "A Taste of Muncie" will be held on Sunday, April 18, 2010.

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Cardinal Greenway Announces 2009 Run Series

Cardinal Greenway kicks off Spring with the first run of the 2009 Run Series with a 5K Run on April 25.

The Spring event features a 5K competitive run and a non-competitive 5K walk. The entry fee is $10 until April 17th, and $15 from April 17 forward. Registration will be from 7:00 to 7:45 a.m. with an 8:00 start time. Entry forms may be downloaded from www.cardinalgreenways.org or picked up at the Wysor Street Depot, the downtown YMCA or Kirk's Bike Shop or the Muncie Visitor's Bureau.

Awards will be given for the 5K competitive run for 1st place male & female, 2nd place male & female, 3rd place male & female. Awards will also be given in 12 additional age divisions for both male & female.

The course will start and finish at the Historic Wysor Street Depot and travel along the paved Cardinal Greenway and White River Greenway as well as the roads and dirt trails through McCulloch Park. Timers will be at each mile. NO PETS ALLOWED!

We hope you will join us for an opportunity to improve your health and see the Spring foliage along the course.

Save the dates for the Cardinal Greenway 10K Run ~ June 13th and our Red-tail 15K Run ~ September 26.

For more information, contact Cardinal Greenway, Inc. at 765-287-0399 or visit www.cardinalgreenways.org



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Friday, April 17, 2009

Three Musketeers at Muncie Civic Theatre

Muncie Civic Theatre presents The Three Musketeers by Ken Ludwig, from the novel by Alexandre Dumas, on the Mainstage, April 17th-19th, 23rd-25th, & May 1st-2nd. Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm and the Sunday matinee on April 19th is at 2:00pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for college students and younger.

The Three Musketeers is a classic tale that features exciting sword fights, humor, and a wonderful time for the whole family!

Based on the timeless swashbuckler by Alexandre Dumas, a tale of heroism, treachery, close escapes and above all, honor. The story, set in 1625, begins with d'Artagnan who sets off for Paris in search of adventure. Along with d'Artagnan goes Sabine, his sister, the quintessential tomboy. Sent with d'Artagnan to attend a convent school in Paris, she poses as a young man - d'Artagnan's servant - and quickly becomes entangled in her brother's adventures.

Soon after reaching Paris, d'Artagnan encounters the greatest heroes of the day, Athos, Porthos and Aramis, the famous musketeers, and he joins forces with his heroes to defend the honor of the Queen of France. In so doing, he finds himself in opposition to the most dangerous man in Europe, Cardinal Richelieu. Even more deadly is the infamous Countess de Winter, known as Milady, who will stop at nothing to revenge herself on d'Artagnan - and Sabine - for their meddlesome behavior.

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.


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Tuesday, April 14, 2009

2009 Children's Health Fair at MCM

The tenth annual Children's Health Fair will be on Saturday, April 19, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Muncie Children's Museum. Admission to the Museum is free, from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The mission of the Children's Health Fair is to promote free health and safety focused education for children through a fun and interactive environment. The Children's Health Fair is the only health fair specifically for children in East Central Indiana and this year, we anticipate approximately 700 children, not to mention their caregivers, to attend this free event.

Each year, over 40 health-related organizations donate their time and talents to the Children's Health Fair. East Central Indiana's country station, Hit Country 102.5 WMDH, will be broadcasting live from the Museum during the Children's Health Fair.

Prizes will be awarded to children throughout the day. Raffle prizes for the Children's Health Fair include: two children's bicycles, a one-year Family Membership to the Muncie Children's Museum as well as a one-year Family Membership to Minnetrista.

The 10th Annual Children's Health Fair is underwritten by The Delaware-Blackford County Medical Society. It is sponsored by: Associates in Women's Health, PC, Cardinal Health Systems, Hillcroft Services, Minnetrista, the Muncie Children's Museum, Luke and Dianne Philippsen and WMDH.

For more information about the Children's Health Fair, call (765) 286-1660, visit www.munciechildrensmuseum.com or www.childrenshealthfair.org.

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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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Horizon Convention Center Hosts Gymnastics Championship

This weekend, April 16-19, the Horizon Convention Center will host DeVeau's School of Gymnastics Region V Level 9 & 10 Championship for the first time. At the three day-long competition, attendance is expected to exceed 2,400 people and will bring nearly $750,000 of economic impact to Muncie and Delaware County.

DeVeau's School of Gymnastics will begin its Region V Level 9 & 10 Championship on Friday. Gymnasts, ages 11 to 18 will be traveling from Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan and Indiana to compete in uneven bars, balance beam, vault and floor routines. At the conclusion of the weekend, the top six gymnasts will be eligible to compete in the national championship.

Competitions are open to the public and will take place on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9am-9pm each day. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for seniors, and $4 for children. Children 5 years old and under are free. Concessions will be available throughout the event.

The Horizon Convention Center is host to local, regional, national, and international guests and events which have a significant economic impact on Muncie and Delaware County.


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A Taste of Muncie at Cornerstone

The 23rd Annual A Taste of Muncie is on Sunday, April 19th from 4:00-6:00pm and will feature some of the area's finest eateries offering their unique delights in a range of categories.

Participants will sample appetizers, soups, entrees, salads, desserts and more at the all-you-can-eat fundraising event. Vote for your favorite at the event and see who takes away the Best of Taste awards! Tickets are $20 per person, groups of ten or more are $18 per person, students are $15 with I.D. and children under 6 are free. All proceeds will support Cornerstone Center for the Arts programming.

Exhibitors include:

Applebees

B.L.D. 50s Cafe, LLC

Bird’s Smokehouse BBQ

Blue Bottle Coffee Shop

Carlos O’Kelly’s

Coffee Junkiez

Dairy Dream

Grand Grilling to Go

Incredible Yogurt

Ivy Tech Culinary Department

Johnny Carino’s Italian Grill

MCL Restaurant and Bakery

Noodles & Company

Oakwood Retreat Center

Peck’s Catering

Pepsi

Pete’s Duck Inn

Qdoba Grill

Ruby Tuesday

Scotty’s Brewhouse

Vera Mae’s Bistro

White River Valley Pizza Hut

Wilson Wines

For tickets, call 765.BUY-YOUR (765-289-9687) or stop by Cornerstone at 520 East Main Street in Muncie. Tickets will be available at the door but space is limited so be sure to buy your tickets in advance!

This event is sponsored by ESPN Radio 1340, WLBC 104.1, WERK 101.7 and 104.9, and MAX 93.5 and 96.7, Indiana Arts Commission, and Indiana Public Radio. All proceeds will benefit programming at Cornerstone Center for the Arts.


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Monday, April 13, 2009

The Art of Journaling at Gallery 308

The Art of Journaling Workshop will be held Saturday April 18,2009 from 10AM - 3PM at Gallery 308, located at 308 E. Main St in Downtown Muncie.

Pre-registration deadline is Tuesday, April 14th.

Bring paper, pen and your imaginations!


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Sunday, April 12, 2009

Downtown Muncie Goes Main Street

The final meeting of the Muncie Downtown Business Council will be a symbolic transition into a new era of downtown revitalization.


Indiana Main Street will be the focus of the group’s last public meeting on Wednesday, April 29th, at 4:30 pm at Muncie Civic Theatre. Refreshments will be available in the lobby.


Guest speakers will be Indiana Main Street program manager Shae Young, and Darrin Murrell of Historic Farmland USA. Some time will also be dedicated to other community announcements at the end of the presentation.


Anyone with an interest in downtown Muncie is urged to attend this meeting, as we take the first step toward becoming a Main Street community. The public will have the opportunity ask questions about Indiana Main Street, and to learn more about how the downtown neighborhood, as well as the entire Muncie community, can benefit from the program.


“There is so much enthusiasm from various groups in the community, centered around developing downtown Muncie as an arts and entertainment district,” said Carey Hays, manager of munciedowntown.com and president of the Downtown Business Council. “My personal vision is to see all these organizations working together with the new Heart of the City, and creating a unified environment in pursuit of our common cause.”


The Muncie Downtown Business Council and Heart of the City organizations voted in March, 2009 to join forces and apply for Main Street designation as a combined group.


The group will keep Heart of the City’s name and not-for-profit status, and will maintain the Downtown Business Council’s membership base. Meetings will continue to take place on the last Wednesday of every month, at 3pm in the Star Press building conference room.


ABOUT INDIANA MAIN STREET


Main Street was created by the National Trust as an approach to commercial district revitalization, a methodology that combines historic preservation with economic development. Today, it advocates preservation-based commercial district revitalization as an ethic that all communities can use to revive their traditional commercial areas.

Main Street uses a “four point approach” to provide a framework for downtown development, focusing on organization, promotion, design and economic restructuring.

There are no fees or financial obligations to become a Main Street community.

Program benefits include fundraising opportunities and increased eligibility for improvement grants, networking with other Main Street communities and valuable resources, technical assistance provided through a partnership with Ball State University’s center for Historic Preservation, as well as access to a building site locator database.

Other recognized Main Street communities in Indiana include Farmland, Madison, Bloomington, Indianapolis, Richmond, and dozens more.

For more information on Main Street, visit www.ocra.in.gov or www.mainstreet.org.

For more information about Downtown Muncie, and updates on our Main Street project, visit www.munciedowntown.com or www.mainstreetmuncie.com .



Contact:
Carey Hays
President, Muncie Downtown Business Council
Phone (765) 760-3187
Email info@munciedowntown.com



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Tuesday, April 07, 2009

Spring Zing Returns to Downtown Muncie April 25th

The 3nd Annual Spring Zing will be held on Saturday April 25th from 10am-5pm on Walnut Street in Downtown Muncie.

Click here for the schedule of music, entertainment and activities.

This year's event will focus on ways for parents to explore children's interests through activities that can be enjoyed in Muncie all summer long.

Wishbone Gifts presents the Solutions BMX Bike Team Trick Bike and Skate demo, and there will be art demonstration, a youth talent show and kids art sale. Toys Forever remote control toy demo, kite flying, games and activities will also be featured.

Admission is $3, kids 12 and under get in free with adult.

Local organizations and businesses that provide classes, camps, programs or outing opportunities during the summer are encouraged to join us as we inspire parents and entice children to enjoy Muncie during their summer break.

Groups who engage children in mind and body fitness, environmental fun, sports and competition, spiritual enrichment or cultural and arts programs should take advantage of this opportunity to promote their summer activities.

Organizations, business or food vendors who would like to participate in this year's event can access vendor forms and information at www.munciedowntown.com or by calling: Cheryl Crowder at Downtown Development (765) 282-7897.

Watch the video from Spring Zing 2008!

Click Here to download the poster!

Click Here to download an application if your organization would like to participate in Spring Zing.

Click Here if you want to exhibit in the Kids Art Show.


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Heart of the City Development Corp. dba Downtown Development is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit group. Our mission is to promote, maintain and enhance a safe, friendly and economically viable central business district and the expansion of arts, entertainment and destination retail in Downtown Muncie.


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Monday, April 06, 2009

Weekly Downtown E-News 4-6-09

Heart of the City is merging with Muncie Downtown Business Council, and the combined group will be applying for Main Street designation for Downtown Muncie. The state director of Indiana Main Street will give a public presentation on the program on Wednesday, April 29th at Muncie Civic Theatre. Doors open at 4:30pm, with the presentation to begin at 5pm.

Anyone with an interest in downtown is urged to attend this meeting. This is a great opportunity to learn more and ask questions, and learn how the entire community can benefit from this program. If you are in the neighborhood, a volunteer will be coming to talk to you soon, with more information. Please help spread the word, we need to have everyone's input. Click here to receive Main Street updates by email if you are not already on our mailing list.

Deadline has been extended to Wednesday, April 8, for local artists who wish to submit their original art work to Cornerstone Center for the Arts' third annual juried art show. Artists can register and submit their work from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. Prizes will be awarded based on the winners for each category in each age group. Read More...

The 3nd Annual Spring Zing will be held on Saturday April 25th from 10am-5pm on Walnut Street in Downtown Muncie. This year's event will focus on ways for parents to explore children's interests through activities that can be enjoyed in Muncie all summer long. If your organization would like to participate, or if you'd like to volunteer to help with the event, contact Cheryl Crowder at 282-7897 or click here for more info.

Read More Downtown News at MuncieDowntown.com

APRIL EVENTS

April 6 - FM Music Live at Doc's Downtown, a live radio broadcast each Monday on MAX 93.5 & 96.7 FM from Doc's Music Hall. Tune in every Monday from 10p-12a to hear an interview and LIVE acoustic set from regional bands.

April 9-11 - Orphans by Lyle Kessler at Muncie Civic Studio Theatre, April 3rd-5th & 9th-11th . Thursday through Saturday performances are at 8:00pm and the Sunday matinee on April 5th is at 2:00pm. READ MORE...

April 9 - We Are Hex and Midnite Daymen at Doc's Music Hall.

April 10 - Jazz Alive at Vera Mae's, 7:30-10:30pm, with Mark Buselli, Frank Smith, Kenny Phelps and Frank Puzzullo with special guest Ken Jolls. Call 747-4941 for info.

April 10 - James Brown Car Alarm and Goldcure at Doc's Music Hall.

April 11 - Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band, Everything Now! and Bears of Blue River at Doc's Music Hall.

April 13 - FM Music Live at Doc's Downtown, a live radio broadcast each Monday on MAX 93.5 & 96.7 FM from Doc's Music Hall. Tune in every Monday from 10p-12a to hear an interview and LIVE acoustic set from regional bands.

April 14 - Cornerstone Third Annual Juried Art Show, 5-8pm, Cornerstone Center for the Arts. READ MORE...

April 16 - Chamber Connect Speed Networking, 2:00--4:00pm at the Horizon Convention Center. Reservations Required, bring plenty of business cards! For reservations contact Nance Buchert at 765-751-9114, nbuchert [at] muncie [dot] com.

April 17 & 18 - Muncie Ballet Studio presents Alice in Wonderland @ 7 pm. READ MORE...
April 18 - 10th Annual Children's Health Fair at the Muncie Children's Museum. Free admission from 10 am to 5 pm. The mission of the Children's Health Fair is to promote free health and safety focused education for children through a fun and interactive environment.

April 18 - Andy Davis and Alisa Turner at The Living Room. READ MORE...

April 18 - Muncie Ballet Studio presents Alice in Wonderland, 4pm. READ MORE...

April 19 - The 23rd Annual A Taste of Muncie is on Sunday, April 19th from 4:00-6:00pm and will feature some of the area's finest eateries. READ MORE...

April 20 - FM Music Live at Doc's Downtown, a live radio broadcast each Monday on MAX 93.5 & 96.7 FM from Doc's Music Hall. Tune in every Monday from 10p-12a to hear an interview and LIVE acoustic set from regional bands.

April 24 - Adam Weber and Jon Hainstock at The Living Room. READ MORE...

April 25 - Farmers Market at Minnetrista is expanding the season! Join us inside Minnetrista from 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for delicious local meats, cheeses, eggs, honey, produce, coffee, baked goods and more! READ MORE...

April 25 - The 3nd Annual Spring Zing will be held on Saturday April 25th from 10am-5pm on Walnut Street in Downtown Muncie. READ MORE...

April 25 - Muncie Children's Museum - 11:00 a.m. Music on the Move Programming by the Muncie Symphony Orchestra. Admission is free. This entertaining and fun opportunity for children and visitors to interact with musicians and their instruments is in conjunction with the MCM's Free Family Saturdays. The day's program will include a performance from the percussion section and arts and crafts!

April 26 - Join Cornerstone Center for the Arts in celebrating a successful spring session at our open house to be held Sunday, April 26th, from 2:00-5:00 pm. Take a free class, enjoy crafts, watch dance performances, and more.

April 26 - The Living Room farewell show, featuring 11 bands. Please stop by and give them thanks for bringing great live music to Downtown Muncie for so many years. Show starts 5pm. READ MORE...

April 27 - FM Music Live at Doc's Downtown, a live radio broadcast each Monday on MAX 93.5 & 96.7 FM from Doc's Music Hall. Tune in every Monday from 10p-12a to hear an interview and LIVE acoustic set from regional bands.

APRIL ONGOING

Through April 11 - Muncie Ballet Studio will hold Alice in Wonderland workshop for children age 6 and older. Previous dance experience not required to participate. The workshop meets weekly through April 11 with performances on April 17-18. Scholarships and tuition assistance available. For reservations, call 282-1480. Free show tickets for participant's family is included in the class fee. READ MORE...

Through April - "New Works" will be the featured exhibit for April at the Artist Within by local artist Ross Wagner. An opening reception will be held during the First Thursday Gallery Walk April 2nd from 5-8pm; the public is invited to this free event. READ MORE...

Through April - Local artist, Martha Gilliom and former Muncie resident, Cheryl Anne Lorance, will exhibit their artwork during the month of April at Gordy Fine Art and Framing Co. READ MORE...

Through April - Local brothers Thurman and Lee Grantham are featured in the April exhibition at Gallery 308, located at 308 East Main, Muncie. The two men are collaborating on a new exhibit entitled "Two Brothers," their first show together. READ MORE...

Through April - Artworks in April will feature the artists from the Art Association of Madison County.

Through April - Ongoing - Muncie Children's Museum - Make 'n Take. Included with admission. Come to the MCM Monday through Friday, at 1:00 p.m., to take part in innovative and fun crafts in the Museum's Make 'n Take! Pre-registration is not required.

Through May 3 - Joseph Holston's "Color in Freedom: Journey Along the Underground Railroad" exhibit at Minnetrista. READ MORE...

Through May 15 - "Cool Moves! The Artistry of Motion!" at the Muncie Children's Museum. READ MORE...

Through August 23 - Minnetrista introduces its latest exhibit Can It!, April 4 through August 23. This highly interactive original exhibit not only looks at the historical production of the Ball jar and its influence on Muncie and surrounding communities. READ MORE...

LOOKING AHEAD

June 2 - July 10 - BSU Orientation parent tours of Downtown Muncie will be conducted every Tuesday through Friday from 10:30am to noon. Stay tuned to munciedowntown.com for details.

June 6 - Freaky Tiki Fridays and Free Friday Night Movies begin in the streets of downtown Muncie, every Friday evening through June, July and August.


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Saturday, April 04, 2009

Comedian Dan St. Paul at Muncie Civic Theatre

Muncie Civic Theatre is proud to present stand-up comedian Dan St. Paul on Saturday, April 4th at 8:00pm. Tickets are $15 in advance and $18 at the door. 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. This is a great show for the whole family and all proceeds from this event support the Muncie Civic Theatre.

Comedian Dan St. Paul is a regular on the popular radio show Bob and Tom and has appeared in numerous shows on VH-1, MTV, and Comedy Central. He has opened for such superstars as Jerry Seinfeld, Natalie Cole, Dwight Yoakum, Smokey Robinson, and Vince Gill. He appeared in the movie "Flubber" with Robin Williams, and signed a recording deal with MCA records. His CD, "Natural and Good for You" contains one of the most requested comedy pieces on radio, "The First Baseball Game". He also is the star of his own one-man play, "Outer Mission, Middle Class - The Comic Diary of an Immigrant's Son".

The Los Angeles Theater and Entertainment Review said about Dan, "Combining a sharp, clean wit with an outstanding talent for creating characters, Dan's show appeals to audiences of all ages...what sets Dan apart is that he doesn't just tell jokes, but rather creates a series of comedic events."

Tickets are $15 in advance and $18 at the door. 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. This is a great show for the whole family and all proceeds from this event support the Muncie Civic Theatre.

Go to www.danstpaul.com for more information. Go online to www.munciecivic.org for complete season information.


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Thursday, April 02, 2009

Sock Hop at Muncie Children's Museum's Friends and Family Fun Night

Make sure you have your poodle skirt and penny loafers on when you come to the Sock Hop at the Muncie Children's Museum's Friends and Family Fun Night, on April 3, 2009, from 3 - 7 p.m.! Admission is free.

April's Friends and Family Fun Night will be centered around a Sock Hop theme. Come to the MCM April 3, to participate in hula-hoop contests, dance to the rhythm of 50s music, bowl a few frames and make root beer floats!

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

For more information on April's Friends and Family Fun Night, call (765) 286-1660 or visit www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.


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The Living Room Farewell Show is April 26th

Micah Dalton, Ryan Horne, David Berkeley, Jon Black & Kim Taylor will be at The Living Room this Friday as part of the "All the Lads and A Lady" tour. Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Show starts at 8:30pm.
www.kim-taylor.net
www.davidberkeley.com
www.whoisjonblack.com
www.ryanhorne.com
www.myspace.com/micahdalton

Other upcoming shows include Andy Davis & Alisa Turner on April 18, and Adam Weber & Jon Hainstock on April 24th.

The decision was made several weeks ago to close The Living Room at the end of this semester due to lack of funding. The final show is on Sunday, April 26th starting at 5pm. There will be 11 bands, 2 stages, and tickets are only $2 at the door. Here is the schedule for the night:

5:00- Jon Hainstock
5:30- Leah Ashton
6:00- Sarah Scharbrough
6:30- Nate Hack
7:00- Cliff Ritchey
7:30- Mike Dean
8:00- Ferguson
8:30- Joel Levi
9:00- Adam Weber
9:30- Adam Clark
10:00- Dave Elwert

Thanks for your support over all these years. We will all miss The Living Room a lot. I hope to see you at all the shows this month...they will all be awesome!

Betsy



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Wednesday, April 01, 2009

Celebration at Cassella's Kitchen

Cassella's Kitchen in downtown Muncie is celebrating its third year in business on Sunday April 5th, 12:00—5:00 pm

Sample gourmet foods from our store prepared by chef Heather Pier, and get 25% off your entire purchase (excluding promotionally priced items).

Cassella's Kitchen specializes in housewares, gourment foods and kitchen accessories. Visit the website at www.cassellaskitchen.com.


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Join Your Friends in Downtown Muncie for First Thursday Gallery Walk

Celebrate the arts in Downtown Muncie at our First Thursday gallery walk, April 2 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 galleries will be opening new exhibits (in alphabetical order by gallery) during First Thursday:




111 Arts Gallery & Tattoo Studio ~ 111 East Main Street ~ 765-282-8342
111 Arts Gallery will feature artworks by Stallio! There will be an opening reception during First Thursday, April 2nd, from 5 to 8pm at 111 E. Main Street. Mike Schulz will be featured on May 7th First Thursday. For more information visit www.tattooindiana.com or http://www.myspace.com/tattooindiana.





The Artist Within ~ 313 S Walnut Street ~ 765-289-7895
"New Works" will be the featured exhibit for April at the Artist Within. Local artist Ross Wagner will showcase his recent oil paintings with an extensive display that will occupy both the main gallery and the upstairs gallery space. An opening reception will be held during the First Thursday Gallery Walk April 2nd from 5-8pm; the public is invited to this free event. READ MORE...





Artworks ~ 301 South Walnut Street ~ 765-288-2221
Artworks in April will feature the artists from the Art Association of Madison County. There will be an opening reception during First Thursday from 5 to 8pm. Artworks is an artist owned and operated sales gallery located at the corner of Walnut and Adams Sts. in downtown Muncie, Indiana. Come visit the gallery and see the original works by outstanding Indiana artists. Hard to Find Yarn and Knitting Supplies now available. Regular Hours are: 11:30 to 5:30 Tuesday thru Saturday.





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 features an art gallery on the second floor, with regular exhibits by local and student artists. The gallery is open during First Thursdays. Local artists are invited to submit their original art work to Cornerstone Center for the Arts' third annual juried art show. Artists can register and submit their work during the week of March 30th through April 3rd from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. Prizes will be awarded based on the winners for each category in each age group.
Read more...





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.





Gallery 308 ~ 308 E. Main Street ~ 765-289-8575
Local brothers Thurman and Lee Grantham are featured in the April exhibition at Gallery 308, located at 308 East Main, Muncie. The two men are collaborating on a new exhibit entitled "Two Brothers," their first show together. This exhibit highlights their independent yet complimentary artistic styles.
For more information about gallery hours, volunteer and donor opportunities, please call 765-289-8575. READ MORE...





Gordy Fine Art & Framing ~ 224 E Main Street ~ 765-284-8422
Local artist, Martha Gilliom and former Muncie resident, Cheryl Anne Lorance, will exhibit their artwork during the month of April at Gordy Fine Art and Framing Co. Beginning with a reception on Thursday, April 2nd from 5 to 8 PM, the multi-media show continues through April 30th at the downtown gallery. The public is invited to attend the opening, and light refreshments will be served. The show may also be viewed during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5:30 PM, and Saturday, 9 to 3. 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.

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


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