2 Painters + 2 Potters Exhibit at Gordys

The summer exhibit at Gordy Fine Art and Framing will feature works by four area artists whose works both contrast and compliment the others. Titled "2 Painters + 2 Potters," the show includes painters Eric Ernstberger and Margie Prim and potters, Kim Anderson and Carol Burt.

The opening reception will be held on Thursday, June 4th from 5 to 8 PM with light refreshments being served. The exhibit will continue through July 31st at the downtown gallery and frame studio. The public is invited to view the exhibit during the reception or normal business hours: Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5:30 PM, Saturday, 9 to 3.

Eric Ernstberger, well-known urban designer and principal of Rundell, Ernstberger Associates, LLC in Muncie, is quickly gaining recognition for his forceful abstract acrylic paintings. Alive in color, with an almost frenzied movement in application, buildings and landscapes dance with energy. These are contemporary and visually dynamic works. Explains the artist, "Painting for me is expression in the raw... an intensely focused yet spontaneous moment."

Margie Prim, like Ernstberger, also paints with a knife. Her landscape and still life paintings also vibrate with an energetic application, this time with oil paints. A different kind of vibrancy in color and surface tension moves the viewer's eyes over Indiana fields, tree lines, street scenes. While both artists paint buildings, Prim's focus is on historical places, threatened by neglect, that she can "save" on her well-tended canvas.

Like the two painters, the two potters exhibit similarities in their work as well as great differences. Well established in their field, Kim Anderson and Carol Burt both throw on potter's wheels to create vases, cups, plates, and other utilitarian objects which they finish with beautiful glazes. Anderson has created a body of work around the female figure, with reference to Venus and other ancient forms and her ongoing investigation about woman as vessel.

Burt is a well-known Muncie art teacher with numerous awards and grants to her credit. Her love affair with clay took a serious turn in 2002, and she began exhibiting in juried shows in 1990. Experiments with the firing process produced works of soda fired stoneware, raku, wood fired and gas reduction fired pieces. The feminine again shows in the clay, this time in scale, form, and decoration.

Gordy Fine Art and Framing is located at 224 East Main Street in downtown Muncie, next to Civic Theatre. For more information, please call (765) 284-8422 or visit www.gordyframing.com.



Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Minnetrista Hosts Garden Fair 2009

Garden Fair at Minnetrista is coming! This favorite weekend community event offers practical information for the home gardener including demonstrations, vendors, tours, and much, much more.

The weekend kicks off Friday, June 5 at 6 p.m. with Culinary Art! A Touch of Glass. Join us for a sampling of great food and great art. Watch as chefs from the American Culinary Federation prepare artistic appetizers and desserts. Guests can also visit the galleries for the opening of Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show.

Cost: $15 per person, includes 2 drink tickets, samplings of appetizers and desserts, and admission to Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show. RSVP by Monday, June 1. Space is limited, so call early! For reservations, call (765) 213-3549.

Garden Fair continues in traditional fashion Saturday, June 6 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. with free admission and free parking. The public is invited to enjoy shopping in the Garden Fair Vendors Tent, demonstrations, refreshments, and much more. Shopping continues Sunday, June 7 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. offering gardeners one last opportunity to purchase their plant selections and unique garden accents. Members of several local garden interest groups will also be set up under the tent prepared to share their knowledge and expertise about specific aspects of gardening.

For more information on this event, please visit www.minnetrista.net.

Located along historic White River, Minnetrista includes 40 acres of beautiful gardens and grounds, a modern museum facility, an historic home, Nature Area, numerous sculptures, and a portion of 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



Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Torch Song Trilogy at Muncie Civic Theatre

Muncie Civic Theatre presents Torch Song Trilogy, a collection of three plays by Harvey Fierstein, in the Studio Theatre. Muncie Civic will perform the second and third part of the trilogy rotating on different nights, and audience members can enjoy one part by itself or both parts equally. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for college students.

A very personal story that is both funny and poignant, Torch Song Trilogy chronicles a gay man's search for love and respect in a world that seems not especially made for him.

Armed with a keenly developed sense of humor and oftentimes piercing wit, Arnold Beckoff continues to test the commonly accepted terms of endearment - and endurance - in a universally affecting story that confirms that happiness is well worth carrying a torch for.

Parts 2 & 3 of the trilogy are five years apart and stand on their own, spotlighting different phases in the life of Arnold. Written by Tony Award-winning actor and playwright Harvey Fierstein.

Fugue in a Nursery - Part 2 of the Trilogy
Thursday, May 28th - 8:00pm & Saturday, May 30th - 8:00pm
Friday, June 5th - 8:00pm & Sunday, June 7th - 2:00pm

In part two of the Torch Song Trilogy, Arnold Beckhoff and Alan, a young fashion model, are settling into a blissful existence together. All seems to be well until they spend the weekend with Arnold's ex-lover, Ed, who left Arnold for a heterosexual relationship with Laurel. The two couples are forced to question themselves and their relationships while attempting to define the true meaning of love.

Widows and Children First! - Part 3 of the Trilogy
Friday, May 29th - 8:00pm & Sunday, May 31st - 2:00pm
Thursday, June 4th - 8:00pm & Saturday, June 6th - 8:00pm

Five years after the action in Fugue in a Nursery, this third installment of the trilogy finds Arnold in his New York apartment raising a gay son and coming to terms with fatherhood. Arnold's world is shaken when he realizes that his greatest challenge remains the complicated relationship with his mother who comes to visit for the first time. The story centers on accepting love in all its forms and the bonds of family.

Call 288.PLAY to purchase your tickets over the phone or stop by the Box Office, Wednesday-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, but seating is limited.

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


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Animal Secrets Exhibit Opens Saturday at Minnetrista

Where does a chipmunk sleep? What does an eagle feed its young? How do mother bats find their babies in a cave? In Animal Secrets, open May 23 through September 6 visitors to Minnetrista will learn the answers to these questions and more as they explore the hidden habitats and secret lives of forest animals.

"Animal Secrets builds on children's natural curiosity about the world around them and helps foster a sense of wonder about nature," said Amanda Hicks, marketing manager. "The exhibit is designed to encourage family learning and to help young children develop science skills through play and exploration. The exhibit also offers parents tips on how to encourage their children's interest in science."

Animal Secrets is specially designed for children ages 3 through 8, preschool to third grade school groups, and has English and Spanish text panels.

In Animal Secrets, visitors discover nature from an animal's point of view as they explore a stream, meadow, woodland, cave and naturalists' tent. Visitors see the world from an eagle's nest, pretend to be a chipmunk and gather food for the winter, and help a raccoon family escape from a hungry fox! Then, visitors can play the role of a naturalist and discover more about the animals that live in the woods by examining tracks, skulls, fur, bones and other real specimens.

Using imaginative role-play and hands-on activities, visitors can explore Animal Secrets in five naturalistic environments: stream, woodland, meadow, cave and naturalists' tent.

Animal Secrets was produced and is toured by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland, Oregon. The exhibit was made possible with funds provided by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Additional support provided by the Collins Foundation and Meyer Memorial Trust.

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

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.


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Two Johnnys - New Restaurant is Open Downtown

A hearty downtown welcome to our newest restaurant, Two Johnnys. Now open for business and serving home-cooked food Mondays through Wednesdays, 10:30am to 3pm, Thursdays and Fridays 10am to 10pm, and Saturdays 5 to 10pm.

Two Johnnys is located in the Rose Court building, at the corner of Charles and Mulberry Streets in Downtown Muncie, Indiana. Like all of our restaurants and shops downtown, Two Johnnys is independently owned and operated.

Stay tuned for details!


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Harvest Moon Film Festival Call for Entries

The third annual Harvest Moon Film Festival, which will take place November 12 - 14, 2009, in Downtown Muncie, is now accepting film submissions. The Harvest Moon Film Festival awards prizes in the areas of feature length, short film, documentary, and student film. The top film receives a $3,000 grand prize and additional prizes are awarded in each category. Selected filmmakers will be spotlighted throughout the weekend.

Harvest Moon Film Festival is looking for documentaries, short films, feature length films, and student films in any genre. Accepted films will be shown during the festival. Films can be submitted at www.harvestmoonfilmfestival.com through Withoutabox, an Amazon affiliate, or through a paper submission form located on the website. Please refer to the website for submission guidelines, fees, and additional information. Selected films will be announced in September.
Film submissions can also be submitted in person to the Harvest Moon Film Festival office at Cornerstone Center for the Arts, 520 East Main Street in Muncie.

Additional events the weekend of November 12-14 will include numerous film screenings at multiple locations, the Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony, Education Seminar, which presents an opportunity to learn about filmmaking through interaction with filmmakers and film professors, and Filmmaker question and answer time with the community. Keep an eye on www.harvestmoonfilmfestival.com for complete festival details.

For additional information contact Robby Tompkins at 765.281.9503 ext. 23 or email at rtompkins@cornerstonearts.org.


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Weekly Downtown E-News 5-18-09

Downtown Muncie will once again host tours for BSU orientation parents. Every Tuesday through Friday between June 2 and July 10, two *full* busloads of parents will be brought downtown, and led on a guided tour through our historic downtown district. Dropoff is at 10:50am near the Horizon Center, and pickup is at 11:50am at Muncie Civic Theatre. Click here for details as well as Orientation promotional opportunities for your downtown business or organzation.

Free Friday Night Movies are returning for the seventh year to Downtown Muncie. Movies will be shown every Friday in June, July and August in the 400 block of Walnut Street at dusk. Concessions will be provided by local not-for-profit organizations with of the proceeds benefiting that evening's volunteer organization. READ MORE...

Freaky Tikki Fridays are a great way to end your work and start the weekend with friends, food, drink and live music in the parking lot next to the Blue Bottle, each Friday @ 7-11 pm in June, July, August and September. Your business or organization can sponsor a Freaky Tiki Friday for only $100. The money will be used to pay the bands. Click here for details on this awesome promotional opportunity!

Beginning Monday, April 27, Carnegie Library will no longer be a circulating library. This means customers will need to visit Kennedy or Maring-Hunt Libraries to check out books magazines, and other materials. Even though library materials can't be checked out at Carnegie, customers can still return materials in the convenient drop box in Carnegie's parking lot. Carnegie's popular free computer lab will remain open during regular Carnegie hours.

Read More Downtown News at MuncieDowntown.com

MAY EVENTS

May 18 - 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.

May 18 - To celebrate International Museum Day on May 18, Minnetrista is FREE every Monday during the month of May! In addition, four Muncie museums - Ball State University Museum of Art, Minnetrista, Muncie Children's Museum, and the National Model Aviation Museum - are taking part in a "passport program" for a chance to win a museum prize package.

May 21 - Gallery 308's Living Arts series returns on Thursday, May 21, at 7pm at the gallery, located at 308 E. Main St. Sherita Saffer Campbell, Tammy Phillips and Delonda Hartmann will join forces to present "The Art of Crime Writing. READ MORE...

May 21 - Muncie Civic Theatre presents Blues Clues Live! The Most Spectacular Place as part of the Family Series on the Mainstage Theatre. Directed by Marty Grubbs. Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm. READ MORE...

May 22 - Muncie Civic Theatre presents Blues Clues Live! The Most Spectacular Place as part of the Family Series on the Mainstage Theatre. Directed by Marty Grubbs. Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm. READ MORE...

May 23 - Farmers Market at Minnetrista from 8am to noon, Saturdays in May outside at the Orchard Shop.Vendors from across East Central Indiana are geared up for another fantastic season of growing and sharing their fresh garden produce, meat, cheese, herbs, eggs, fresh cut flowers, soaps and lotions, and much more! READ MORE...

May 23 - Jam It! at Minnetrista, 2-4pm. Join us for an afternoon of canning. Experts from Jarden Home Brands will lead your family in canning homemade strawberry jam.

May 23 - Muncie Civic Theatre presents Blues Clues Live! The Most Spectacular Place as part of the Family Series on the Mainstage Theatre. Directed by Marty Grubbs. Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm. READ MORE...

May 25 - Minnetrista is FREE every Monday during the month of May, in celebration of International Museum Day. In addition, four Muncie museums - Ball State University Museum of Art, Minnetrista, Muncie Children's Museum, and the National Model Aviation Museum - are taking part in a "passport program" for a chance to win a museum prize package.

May 25 - 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.

May 27 - Heart of the City downtown public meeting at 3pm in the Star Press building conference room. There will be an update on the merger of the two organizations, announcement of proposed committee structures, and an update on the Main Street program.

May 27 - Copper Enameling Workshop at Minnetrista, 5:30-8:30pm. Try your hand at painting with glass using copper enameling techniques. Create a small mosaic for jewelry or window art.

May 28 - Chat with the Mayor, 6-8pm at Carnegie Library.

May 29 - Freaky Tiki Friday with live music by Jake Hendershot. Start the weekend with friends, food, drink and live music in the parking lot next to the Blue Bottle, each Friday @ 7-11 pm in June, July, August and September. Click here for schedule and details...

May 30 - Farmers Market at Minnetrista from 8am to noon, Saturdays in May outside at the Orchard Shop.Vendors from across East Central Indiana are geared up for another fantastic season of growing and sharing their fresh garden produce, meat, cheese, herbs, eggs, fresh cut flowers, soaps and lotions, and much more! READ MORE...

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. READ MORE...

MAY ONGOING

Through May 30 - The Artist Within features artwork by advanced art students from Muncie Central and Muncie Southside. An opening reception is planned for first Thursday, May 7 from 5-8 pm. The show runs from May 5-30, 2009. READ MORE...

Through May - Glass bead work from local artists on display at ArtWorks gallery. READ MORE...

Through May - "60 Years of Indiana Artist Bette Graham's Print Making" will be on display at Gallery 308 in Muncie. The exhibition is described as a "retrospective" which features pieces dating to the beginning of Graham's long and productive career as well as some newer works. READ MORE...

Through May - Gordy Fine Art & Framing will feature the artwork of Suzanne Marie Lambert, May 1st through 31st. There will be an opening reception during First Thursday, May 7th, from 5 to 8pm.

Through August 23 - Can It! 125 Years of the Ball Jar exhibit at Minnetrista, 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...

JUNE EVENTS

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

June 5 - Free Friday Night Movie: Madagascar 2. Free Friday Night Movies are shown every week at dusk in the 400 block of Walnut Street in Downtown Muncie. Concessions will be provided by local not-for-profit organizations with of the proceeds benefiting that evening's volunteer organization. FULL SCHEDULE HERE...

June 5 - Freaky Tiki Friday with live music by Peterson, Simmons and Dunn. Start the weekend with friends, food, drink and live music in the parking lot next to the Blue Bottle, each Friday @ 7-11 pm in June, July, August and September. Click here for schedule and details...

June 5 - Culinary ART! A Touch of Glass Friday, June 5 from 6 - 8 p.m. at Minnetrista. Feast your eyes on the culinary techniques of chefs from the American Culinary Federation as they prepare artistic appetizers and desserts. Participants can dazzle their palette with samples of their exquisite food and then take a stroll through the galleries for the opening of Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show. READ MORE...

June 5 & 6 - Garden Fair at Minnetrista Saturday from 8am to 4pm, and Sunday from 10am to 3pm. Garden Fair offers two days full of demonstrations, education and workshops for the garden enthusiasts.

June 12 - Friday Dance Movie & Crafts at Muncie Ballet Studio, 6:30-9:00pm. Drop off your dancer at the studio for a movie, popcorn, and fun crafts! READ MORE...

June 12 - Free Friday Night Movie: High School Musical 3. Free Friday Night Movies are shown every week at dusk in the 400 block of Walnut Street in Downtown Muncie. Concessions will be provided by local not-for-profit organizations with of the proceeds benefiting that evening's volunteer organization. FULL SCHEDULE HERE...

June 12 - Freaky Tiki Friday with live music by Doc Warner. Start the weekend with friends, food, drink and live music in the parking lot next to the Blue Bottle, each Friday @ 7-11 pm in June, July, August and September. Click here for schedule and details...

June 15-19 - The Artist Within and Art Mart art camps, "Art Camp Goes Green" Session 1, ages 6-8 years, 9am to Noon. Session 2, ages 9-12 years, is July 13-17 and Session 3, ages 12 and over, is Aug. 3-7. Sign up before June 1st for $25 early registration discount!

June 19 - Free Friday Night Movie: Speed Racer. Car Show and RC Racing prior to the movie. Free Friday Night Movies are shown every week at dusk in the 400 block of Walnut Street in Downtown Muncie. Concessions will be provided by local not-for-profit organizations with of the proceeds benefiting that evening's volunteer organization. FULL SCHEDULE HERE...

June 19 - Freaky Tiki Friday with live music by Bryce Taylor. Start the weekend with friends, food, drink and live music in the parking lot next to the Blue Bottle, each Friday @ 7-11 pm in June, July, August and September. Click here for schedule and details...

June 26 - Friday Dance Movie & Crafts at Muncie Ballet Studio, 6:30-9:00pm. Drop off your dancer at the studio for a movie, popcorn, and fun crafts! READ MORE...

June 26 - Free Friday Night Movie: Kung Fu Panda. Free Friday Night Movies are shown every week at dusk in the 400 block of Walnut Street in Downtown Muncie. Concessions will be provided by local not-for-profit organizations with of the proceeds benefiting that evening's volunteer organization. FULL SCHEDULE HERE...

June 26 - Freaky Tiki Friday with live music by Easy Leis. Start the weekend with friends, food, drink and live music in the parking lot next to the Blue Bottle, each Friday @ 7-11 pm in June, July, August and September. Click here for schedule and details...

JUNE ONGOING

June and July - Muncie Ballet Studio Summer Camps offer Crafts, Dance, Pointe, Theatre at the Island & Dance Movie Nights. Crafts & Dance in every class! Session One: June 4, 11, 18, 25; Session Two: July 9, 16, 23, 30. READ MORE...

June 6 - August 16 - Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show at Minnetrista, features work from glass artists from Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky and Michigan. Glasswork styles represented will be torchwork, mosaics, etched and cold techniques, blown, fused, cast and stained glass.

June 8 - July 30 - The Cornerstone Arts Program is excited to introduce its summer classes, which will run from June 8th-July 30th. The Arts Program offers classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts. Classes vary and run anywhere from 5-8 weeks. Payment plans and financial aid are available. READ MORE...

June 15 to July 31 - Camp Minnetrista is for kids Pre-K to those who are entering sixth grade in the fall of 2009. Taking place on the Minnetrista grounds, the four week-long day camps are an exciting and educational experience for their children. Campers can come one week or four weeks and can choose to attend half day or full day camps. READ MORE...


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Free Friday Night Movies Return to Downtown Muncie

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.

First showing is June 5th. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, bug spray and the whole family for this free night of family entertainment Downtown.

Concessions will be provided by local not-for-profit organizations with of the proceeds benefiting that evening's volunteer organization. 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 (car show and RC racing prior to movie)
26- Kung Fu Panda

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

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


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Culinary ART! A Touch of Glass at Minnetrista

Care to tempt your taste buds? Join us for an evening of delicious food and locally created glass art at Culinary ART! A Touch of Glass Friday, June 6 from 6 - 8 p.m.

Feast your eyes on the culinary techniques of chefs from the American Culinary Federation as they prepare artistic appetizers and desserts. Participants can dazzle their palette with samples of their exquisite food and then take a stroll through the galleries for the opening of Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show.

Tickets are $15 per person and include appetizers and dessert, 2 drink tickets and admission to Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show. For more information call (765) 213-3549.

Sign Up Now! Space is limited!

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.



Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Freaky Tiki Fridays Return to Downtown Muncie

It's back! Heart of the City in partnership with Doc's Music Hall, Heorot and Blue Bottle are pleased to announce the 7th season of Freaky Tikki Friday's Downtown.

Freaky Tikki Fridays are a great way to end your work and start the weekend with friends, food, drink and live music in the parking lot next to the Blue Bottle, each Friday @ 7-11 pm in June, July, August and September. We will kick off the season a tad early on May 29th.

June Schedule:
May 29 - Jake Hendershot
June 5 - Peterson, Simmons and Dunn
June 12 - Doc Warner
June 19 - Bryce Taylor
June 26 - The Easy Leis

June's sponsors include Kirk's Bike Shop, Custom Hardwood Floors by Hans Heintzelman and Wishbone Gifts.

July Schedule:
July 3 - Derek Jones
July 10 - Tom Kat Brothers
July 17 - The Michael Martin Band
July 24 - The Tom Kats
July 31 - 8 Stories High

July's sponsors include First Merchants Bank, Ineo Web Solutions, and Wishbone Gifts.

Your business or organization can sponsor a Freaky Tiki Friday for only $100.

You get...

• Your company logo on all monthly promo material (postcards, fliers)
• Banner or signage placement at Freaky Tikki (you provide)
• Your promotional material at each table if desired
• Opportunity to make an announcement about your company or upcoming events
• Recognition and thank you throughout the evening from the band
• The bands undying love, because they get the money!

Heart of the City will invoice you for the sponsorship amount. Payment and company logo must be received one month in advance to be included in promotional printing.

For more information or to sign up as a sponsor, please contact Cheryl Crowder at 282-7897 or chercrowder [at] gmail.com.



Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Muncie Ballet Studio Offers Summer Camps

Summer Camps begin in June at Muncie Ballet Studio. Crafts, Dance, Pointe, Theatre at the Island & Dance Movie Nights. Crafts & Dance in every class! Sign up early at www.MuncieBallet.org.

Session One: June 4, 11, 18, 25
Session Two: July 9, 16, 23, 30

2-3 yr olds 30 minute $25 session "story ballet" crafts & dance
Tuesday 6:30-7:00pm. Cost is $25 session.

4-5 yr old is a 45 Minute class mini ballet suite crafts & dance
Thursday 5:30-6:15pm. Cost is $35 per session.

Grade 1 & up Ballet Theatre crafts & dance
Thursday 6:30-7:30. Cost is $36 per session.

Pointe Workshop for students Age 10 and up in pre-pointe & pointe shoes
Tuesday 5:30-7:00. Cost is $45 per session.

Theatre at the Island - try something new! Kids acting class & show, Saturdays 12-2. Cost is $45.00 per session.
Our class will meet in the cabana, but bring sunscreen and a hat!
Shows TBA

Friday Dance Movie & Crafts 6:30-9:00pm on select Fridays. Mark your calendar! June 12 & 26, July 10 & 24. Cost is $10.
Drop off your dancer at the studio for a movie, popcorn, and fun crafts!
Call ahead 765-282-1480 or email muncieballet@gmail.com to reserve your spot.

For more information, vist mucieballet.org.


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Gallery 308 Living Arts Series: The Art of Crime Writing

Gallery 308's Living Arts series returns on Thursday, May 21, at 7pm at the gallery, located at 308 E. Main St.

Sherita Saffer Campbell, Tammy Phillips and Delonda Hartmann will join forces to present "The Art of Crime Writing."

The mystery writers will discuss how to write a mystery, how mystery story writing
differs from other short story writing, self editing, finding an editor, submitting a manuscript for publication, joining a group that encourages you to write and self-publication.

All three writers are members of Sisters in Crime, and are published. In addition, Brenda Stewart editor of Sisters in Crime Anthologies, will join the panel for the discussion.

There will be books available for purchase and signing. Please join us for this lively discussion! Light refreshments will be served.


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Cornerstone Center for the Arts Opens Registration for Summer Classes

The Cornerstone Arts Program is excited to introduce its summer classes, which will run from June 8th-July 30th. The Arts Program offers classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts.

Youth classes include: Youth Hip Hop, Youth Tap, Early Art, Youth Art, Youth Ceramics, Group Piano, Hip Hop for boys and girls, Indian & Bollywood Dance, Jazz, Art Exploration, Ballet classes, Kindermusik(R), Youth Drama, and Martial Arts.

Adult classes include: Tap, Hip Hop, Beginning and Advanced Belly Dance, Indian & Bollywood Dance, Belly Dance Boot Camp, Swing, Line Dancing, Pilates, Contemporary/Jazz, Progressions/Ballet Technique, Cardio Class, Drawing, Painting, Digital Photography, Adult Ceramics, Fiber Art, Beginning Sewing, Yoga, and Musical Theatre.

Classes vary and run anywhere from 5-8 weeks. Check out www.cornerstonearts.org to register online or pick up a brochure at 520 East Main Street for class details. Payment plans and financial aid are available. Call 765.281.9503 ext. 15 for any additional questions.

In addition, the Cornerstone Arts Program offers private instruction for all ages in the following areas: Drums, Guitar, Piano, Voice, Strings, Trumpet, and Saxophone.
The Cornerstone Arts Program is excited to introduce its summer classes, which will run from June 8th-July 30th. The Arts Program offers classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts.

Youth classes include: Youth Hip Hop, Youth Tap, Early Art, Youth Art, Youth Ceramics, Group Piano, Hip Hop for boys and girls, Indian & Bollywood Dance, Jazz, Art Exploration, Ballet classes, Kindermusik(R), Youth Drama, and Martial Arts.

Adult classes include: Tap, Hip Hop, Beginning and Advanced Belly Dance, Indian & Bollywood Dance, Belly Dance Boot Camp, Swing, Line Dancing, Pilates, Contemporary/Jazz, Progressions/Ballet Technique, Cardio Class, Drawing, Painting, Digital Photography, Adult Ceramics, Fiber Art, Beginning Sewing, Yoga, and Musical Theatre.

Classes vary and run anywhere from 5-8 weeks. Check out www.cornerstonearts.org to register online or pick up a brochure at 520 East Main Street for class details. Payment plans and financial aid are available. Call 765.281.9503 ext. 15 for any additional questions.

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


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Blues Clues Live! at Muncie Civic Theatre

Muncie Civic Theatre presents Blues Clues Live! The Most Spectacular Place as part of the Family Series on the Mainstage Theatre, May 15th-17th & 21st-23rd . Thursday through Saturday performances are at 7:30pm and the Sunday matinee on May 17th is at 2:00pm. All tickets are $5 and are general admission seating. Directed by Marty Grubbs.

Blue's Clues Live! The Most Spectacular Place begins when the curtain greets and welcomes the audience into the wonderful world of theatre. On stage, Blue and Steve lead the audience on a clue-based journey, in search of the most spectacular place of all.

This quest takes them through Storybook Forest, where Blue and Steve meet The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks, The Big Bad Wolf, and other characters from classic fairytales. Blue and Steve even travel to outer space in search of the most spectacular place, discovering planets and other celestial wonders along the way. When they discover the final clue, Blue and Steve learn that aside from the surprise-filled world of theatre, home is the most spectacular place of all!

Call 288.PLAY to purchase your tickets over the phone or stop by the Box Office, Wednesday-Friday from Noon-6:00pm at 216 E. Main Street in Muncie.

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


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Downtown Muncie Prepares for BSU Freshman Orientation

Ball State University freshman orientation begins Tuesday, June 2nd, and Downtown Muncie welcomes our guests with open arms.

Downtown businesses and merchants are encouraged to take advantage of the many promotional and volunteer opportunities offered over the next few weeks. We want everyone to get involved, to let our visitors know what a wonderful community we are and how much we Downtown Muncie has to offer!

Lots of information here, please read carefully:

Cleanup May 29-30

There is a downtown neighborhood cleanup planned for the weekend of May 29-30. To volunteer, make a donation, or for more information, visit www.lightupmuncie.org or call Ty Morton at 749-0652.

If you can't participate in the cleanup (or even if you can), property owners, residents and tenants are asked to neaten up the area around their buildings or storefronts. We strongly encourage the placement of flowers, and the use of red and white in your windows and displays. "Welcome" signs are available at the Downtown Development office, or email info [at] munciedowntown.com to request one.

Downtown Tours

Heart of the City, Ball State and MITS are partnering for the fourth year to provide Downtown Tours to the orientation parents. Every Tuesday through Friday between June 2 and July 10, two *full* busloads of parents will be brought downtown, and led on a guided tour through our historic downtown district. Dropoff is at 10:50am near the Horizon Center, and pickup is at 11:50am at Muncie Civic Theatre.

Volunteers are needed to be tour guides. The first two weeks of June are mostly full, but we have lots of empty slots in late June and early July. We also need a couple back-up tour guides for last-minute bail-outs. It's just a few short hours of your time, and it's lots of fun! The parents love it, and we get lots of positive feedback on-site.

If you cannot be a guide, please be prepared to welcome our guests, answer their questions and make recommendations of other places to visit downtown. Don't forget we've got Free Friday Night Movies coming up, as well as Freaky Tiki Fridays at Blue Bottle. Our monthly First Thursday gallery walk is another popular family-friendly event to suggest.

Welcome Kits

Each parent is greeted with a welcome kit when they arrive downtown. Bags are stuffed and provided by the Muncie Visitor's Bureau with flyers, handouts, coupons and literature. There is no charge to have your information included (aside from your printing costs). We urge everyone to take advantage of this great promotional opportunity if you can - the more, the merrier! We need 1500-2000 pieces, and the deadline is approaching soon - typically mid-May. For more information, email info [at] munciedowntown.com or call the Muncie Visitor's Bureau or Downtown Development office.

The Visitor's Bureau also distributes city-wide welcome kits to all parents *and* students as they arrive. This service is also provided free of charge. 3500 pieces of material to be included in orientation welcome bags (may be advertisements, coupons etc. All 8 1/2 x 11 sheets must be tri-folded.) need to be dropped off at the Visitor's Bureau office by May 7 (that's Friday!!)

Family Weekend Discount Postcards

All parents who take the downtown tours are given a downtown discount postcard when they arrive. The back of the card will list downtown businesses who agree to offer a discount or "special deal" during BSU Family Weekend in October. The postcard will be self-addressed by the parents during their visit downtown, then dropped into a fishbowl for a daily prize drawing (more on that below).

The self-addressed postcards will be mailed to parents just before Family Weekend in the fall, encouraging the parents to return to downtown Muncie and redeem the offered discounts. This has been a popular program in the past, and there is no cost to participate. You need to just let us know by May 19th what discount or special deal you are offering. Only businesses offering a discount will be listed on the postcard. Call Bob Hartley at The Artist Within, 765-289-7895 or email theartistwithininc [at] yahoo.com if you'd like to take part in this great promotion.

Door Prize Donations

We're also seeking door prize donations for daily drawings at the end of each downtown tour (22 visits between June 5th and July 13th). These door prizes can be large enough to be the "Daily Sponsor" or smaller contributions that go into a "Gift Basket". Please call Cheryl at Downtown Development office, 282-7897, or email chercrowder [at] gmail.com.

Additionally, Muncie Visitors Bureau has partnered with Ball State Athletics and local lodging and attractions to provide a prize package each morning of orientation to one lucky set of parents of an incoming freshman. Our lodging partners have provided complimentary overnight stays. We are now collecting admission passes and gift certificates from area attractions to also be included. 25 pieces or items are needed by May 7. Call the Visitor's Bureau office for more information.

Orientation Guides Downtown Experience

While the parents of our incoming freshmen get to experience downtown first-hand, we have limited opportunity to reach the students themselves. Last year, The Artist Within hosted a successful event for around 30 BSU orientation guides as part of their orientation training. Last year's event was great fun, and the upperclass guides brought home a great downtown experience to recommend to our new temporary citizens!

On May 27th from 6:30-8:30, this year's orientation guides will again take a MITS bus from campus to downtown, to learn how easy and accessible it is. Each of the students will be given a ceramic mug to paint while various Downtown business showcase their offerings through food samples, door prize gift donations and simply helping "work" the event at our studio.

If you'd like to donate door prizes or food, hand out literature, flyers or coupons, come to help out and answer questions, or help in any other way, call Bob Hartley at The Artist Within.

Get Involved!

Please help out and take part in this year's orientation any way you can! We've received lots of positive feedback in past years, and we want to continue to make a good impression on our new visitors. Be proud of our downtown community, we have so much to offer!

Stay tuned to munciedowntown.com for details.


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Celebrate the Arts at First Thursday Gallery Walk Downtown

Explore our many art galleries in Downtown Muncie at the monthly First Thursday gallery walk, May 7 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 light refreshments.

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 Mike Schulz. There will be an opening reception during First Thursday, May 7th, from 5 to 8pm at 111 E. Main Street.

For more information visit www.tattooindiana.com or http://www.myspace.com/tattooindiana.


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

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.

An opening reception is planned for first Thursday, May 7 from 5-8 pm. The show runs from May 5-30, 2009. READ MORE...


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

ArtWorks Gallery will be having a "Bead Fest" event and jewelry demonstrations during First Thursday in May 7th, 2009 in Downtown Muncie. This event is free and a must for anyone who has a fascination for bead making and fine handcrafted jewelry!

Artists presenting glass bead making demonstrations will be featured artists Camille Richard, Lori Smith, and Mary Van Hoy from Indianapolis. and Fran Carrico, from Pendleton. ArtWorks artists presenting jewelry demonstrations will be Judy Bunner (metal clay), Anny Delk (felt beads), Heidi Hale, Judy Kreiger Wand and Beth Wentz (metal jewelry). 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 features an art gallery on the second floor, with regular exhibits by local and student artists. The gallery is open during First Thursdays.


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

"60 Years of Indiana Artist Bette Graham's Print Making" will be on display at Gallery 308 in Muncie. The opening reception for the exhibit is First Thursday, May 7, 5 to 8 p.m.

The exhibition is described as a "retrospective" which features pieces dating to the beginning of Graham's long and productive career as well as some newer works. 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

Gordy Fine Art & Framing will feature the artwork of Suzanne Marie Lambert, May 1st through 31st. There will be an opening reception during First Thursday, May 7th, from 5 to 8pm.


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.

Click Here for More Downtown Muncie Events.

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


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

60 Years of Indiana Artist Bette Graham's Print Making

Muncie native Bette Graham is known for her landscapes, and popular images of cats. For 60 years she has been active in the local arts community. Proficient in several art media, Graham's primary focus throughout her lengthy career has been printmaking--both wood block and linoleum.

In the month of May, Graham's work will be on display at Gallery 308 in Muncie. The opening reception for the exhibit is First Thursday, May 7, 5 to 8 p.m.

The exhibition is described as a "retrospective" which features pieces dating to the beginning of Graham's long and productive career as well as some newer works.

Known for her landscape prints, which often feature local homes and other structures from the area, as well as her images of cats (which have been very popular for many years), Graham has placed many award-winning pieces into the exhibit, pieces that have been featured in local and regional shows. Some of her works currently reside in museums and private collections around the country and the world.

The show will also examine her influence in the local community. She has been involved with many local arts organizations, freely donating her time and talent in support of emerging artists and contributing to the creative culture in Muncie. Her works are for sale and will be on display May 7th through May 29th at 308 East Main Street in downtown Muncie.

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


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Minnetrista Celebrates National Public Gardens Day

National Public Gardens Day is Friday, May 8, and Minnetrista is celebrating throughout the entire weekend. Join us for special tours with "Get Up and Grow" columnists. Kids will enjoy fun activities in the Children's Garden, along with the trains running in our Garden Railroad. All garden tours and outdoor activities at Minnetrista will be free for the weekend.

National Public Gardens Day is a national day of celebration to raise awareness of America's public gardens and their important role in promoting environmental stewardship and awareness, plant and water conservation, and education in communities nationwide.

National Public Gardens Weekend activity schedule:

Friday, May 8

9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. ongoing
Explore our 40-acre campus of thematic garden spaces.
You, Me & the Bee exhibit in the lobby of the Cultural Center.

3 p.m.
Ideas for the Home Garden - Visit the Wishing Well Gardens with Susan Smith for ideas to use in your own garden. In this series of four gardens, you will learn about resources available to home gardeners, planting for year-round interest, and see examples of varieties suitable for this zone.

Saturday, May 9

9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. ongoing
Explore our 40-acre campus of thematic garden spaces.
You, Me & the Bee exhibit in the lobby of the Cultural Center.
Visit the Discovery Cabin to learn more about creatures you may find around your garden.

10:30 a.m.
Discovery in a Backyard Garden - Join Cassie Banning for a tour of Oakhurst Gardens, Minnetrista's historic backyard garden, to discover early spring perennials and explore ways to create what you see in your own backyard.

11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Children's Activities and Garden Railroad - Come play in the Children's Garden with activities suited for young green thumbs. We will also have our garden railroad going around the track.

3 p.m.
Deceptive Beauty - Invasive plants can have many unintended consequences when they make it out of our gardens and yards. Dustin Stillinger will explore the problems of invasive plants that can cause many problems like decreasing habitat for wildlife or increasing soil erosion. You will also learn what invasive species the Minnetrista staff combat along the riverbank. You may even have some in your own backyard!

Sunday, May 10

11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. ongoing
Explore our 40-acre campus of thematic garden spaces.
You, Me & the Bee exhibit in the lobby of the Cultural Center.
Visit the Discovery Cabin to learn more about creatures you may find around your garden.

11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Children's Activities and Garden Railroad - Come play in the Children's Garden with activities suited for young green thumbs. We will also have our garden railroad going around the track.

1 p.m.
Examining the Natural World - Take a stroll in the Nature Area at Minnetrista with Stephanie Dilk and explore nature's nuances and investigate the nature's mysteries. Take a look at the trees and indigenous plants of East Central Indiana; do a little Tree ID; and see what flowers are blooming in May.

3 p.m.
Diversify Your Garden - Walk through the gardens with Rachel Drucks and learn how to incorporate annuals, perennials, bulbs, grasses, shrubs, and trees to create a beautiful garden with year-round interest. Learn the basics of working with a garden theme and how to maintain and care for your plants.

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.


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com

Bead Fest and Demonstrations at ArtWorks

ArtWorks Gallery will be having a "Bead Fest" event and jewelry demonstrations during First Thursday in May 7th, 2009 in Downtown Muncie. This event is free and a must for anyone who has a fascination for bead making and fine handcrafted jewelry!

Featured guest artists for May will be Camille Richard, Lori Smith, and Mary Van Hoy from Indianapolis. Featured artist from the previous year, Fran Carrico, from Pendleton, will be exhibiting her new glass bead jewelry designs as well. These ladies are lampwork artists or “wound glass beadmakers”. The technique of winding glass around a metal rod to create beads dates back to the pharonic era Egypt.

Camille, Lori, Mary and Fran are members of ISLAGA, an Indiana organization of glass artists. They have spent many hours in their studios and have studied lampworking techniques under internationally renowned glass bead artists. The endless possibilities of glass bead techniques allow each of the artists to develop their own special “signature” bead designs. They will be demonstrating the art of wound glass beads using a “Hothead” torch from 5:00 to 7:30 pm on May 7th only.

Camille Richard has been lampworking for 10 years. “Her earthy and organic beads are inspired by her travels and nature. “I am fascinated that the same basic techniques have been used for thousands of years.“.

Lori Smith has been lampworking for 5 years. Lori states, “I’m especially drawn to ethereal looks and cool pastels.”. Lori never thought that she would be creating jewelry too and remarks, “I like the way it makes my beads pop!

Mary Van Hoy works and teaches lampworking in her studio at Merry-go-round Stain Glass in Indianapolis. Mary and her brother both create and design custom stain glass pieces. Mary attended college in Florida and became intrigued by the sea and marine life.
She credits her glass bead fish obsession with having to live for so many years in the “landlocked Mid-West”.

The “Art of the Bead” Exhibit will remain in the gallery for the entire month of May. ArtWorks gallery artists will also be giving bead and jewelry demonstrations from 5:00 to 7:30 pm during First Thursday Muncie Downtown Gallery Walk on May 7th. The artists giving demonstrations will be Judy Bunner (metal clay), Anny Delk (felt beads), Chicqiela Elbert-Velazco (lampworking), Judy Kreiger Wand and Beth Wentz (metal jewelry).

Date and Time of Opening Artists Reception: May 7th, 2009 from 5 to 8 pm.
Demonstrations: 5:00 to 7:30 (one day only)
Duration of Bead Exhibit: May 1st to 31st
Where: ArtWorks Gallery, 301 S Walnut St, Muncie


Please tell them you saw it on munciedowntown.com