NewsSection

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Weekly Downtown E-News 9/26/07

Don't forget to attend the Muncie Downtown Business Council special session with the Mayoral candidates this afternoon, Thursday, September 27th at 3pm in the Star Press conference room. PLEASE NOTE: This meeting is a departure from the regularly scheduled MDBC members meeting, normally held on the last Wednesday of each month. Immediately following the Mayoral Event will be a DBC "Meet the Members Mixer" from 5 to 7pm at The Artist Within. Please make a point to attend! We value your input.

SEPTEMBER EVENTS:

26th - The Passing of the Buffalo sculpture will begin its journey home at the downtown roundabout, Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 7:30am. The sculpture has been in the lobby of Minnetrista since 1999. It will take a crew of 6 men, plus equipment, about 3 hours to remove the large sculpture.

27th - The Muncie Downtown Business Council will hold a special session with the Mayoral candidates, from 3 to 5pm in the Star Press conference room. Immediately following the Mayoral Event, DBC Vice President Bob Hartley will host a "Meet the Members Mixer" at the Artist Within from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. This is an excellent opportunity to network with your downtown peers, and to learn all about the Downtown Business Council and our continued efforts to market your organization and our downtown neighborhood.

27th - Downtown Business Council will have a "Meet the Members" mixer, from 5 to 7 pm at The Artist Within. Anyone is invited to attend and learn more about the Muncie Downtown Business Council.

27th - Altrusa Style Show at the Horizon Convention Center. Lunch show at noon, dinner show at 7pm. Contact Sandra Hoover @ 747-3128

28th - 29th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

29th - Minnetrista: Farmers Market Cooking Demonstrations 9:00am

29th - Muncie Children's Museum - Free Family Saturday. Free admission from 10 am to 5 pm.

SEPTEMBER ONGOING :

Through Sept. 29- Gallery 308 will exhibit "Earthbound" - Photographs of the Midwest By Earlham College Artist in Residence Walt Bistline, with an opening reception at the Gallery on September 6; the public is invited to meet the artist.

Through September - The Artist Within will feature paintings by Lynnette Whitesell throughout September. "containments: works of a small town grandeur" is the exhibit of a series of paintings created by Lynnette while on an Indiana individual artist grant. An opening reception will be held First Thursday, September 6 from 5-8pm.

Through September - Artworks will exhibit "Sculptures with a Whimsical Musical Feeling" during September. Artist Kim Kneist will display Medium Galvanized & Copper Metal Sculptures at the non-profit gallery and shop, with an opening reception during First Thursday on September 6, from 5:30 to 8:30pm. Ongoing exhibits feature Lynette Whitesell-acrylic painting; Pat Garafalo- watercolors; Jon Peterson - pottery; and Heidi Hale- jewelry artistry.

Through September - Martha Gilliom and Shonet Lambert Martin will join owner Genny Gordy for the September art show at Gordy Fine Art and Framing in downtown Muncie. Titled, "Works on Paper," the show includes watercolors by Gilliom, collages by Martin and mixed media and watercolors by Gordy. A reception for the artists will be held during the First Thursday from 5 to 8 PM. Light refreshments will be served and the public is invited to attend. For more information call 284-8422 or visit www.gordyframing.com .

Through September - Muncie Children's Museum - MCM Young Gardeners. Beginning June 20 and running through August. Every Wednesday and Friday at 3 p.m., children of all ages can enjoy gardening, nature and the environment in the Museum's Outdoor Learning Center. The program is free with regular Museum admission and free to members. 286-1660 or www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

Through September - Muncie Children's Museum - Pre-School Clubs. Train Club meets on Tuesdays from 10:30-11:30 am. Dino Club meets on Thursdays from 10:30-11:30 am. Messy Stuff Art Club meets on Fridays from 10:30-11:30 am. Pre-registration is not required. Contact the Museum at 286-1660 for details and cost, or visit our website at www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

Through September- Daily Themed Days at the Muncie Childrens Museum. Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, starting at 11:00 a.m. and the last activity of the day starts at 3:00 p.m. The current themed days are: Tricky Tuesday, Weird Science Wednesday, Theatre Thursday and Fun Friday. Children will take part in activities associated with each themed day such as story time, science activities and art projects in Make N Take. No registration is required. All themed day activities are included with the price of admission. Children can bring a lunch. For more information, contact the Museum at 286-1660 or visit our website at www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

Through October 1 - Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show Minnetrista is celebrating its regional heritage with its first juried glass art show and sale September 1 through October 1. Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show commemorates the Ball Brothers Manufacturing Company's contribution to Minnetrista and showcases glass artists from Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky and Michigan.

Through October 7 - Munciedowntown.com presents "Classic Rock & Roll Art by Tom Wilkes" show and sale at Doc's Music Hall. The exhibit will feature artwork from the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival; rejected album cover art for George Harrison and Neil Young; and select prints from his "Legends of the West" series, including rare photographs of Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris and bluegrass legend Bill Monroe. An opening reception will be held on First Thursday, September 6 from 5-8pm.

Through October 15th - Minnetrista features Open Space: Art About the Land is an art competition and exhibition which recognizes and encourages artists in East Central Indiana who derive creative inspiration from the land, or whose work celebrates the notion of open space as it relates to the land. Visit www.minnetrista.net for info.

Through October 28 - Minnetrista Farmers Market in the Orchard Shop Parking Lot - meets every Saturday, now through October 28 8:00 am - 12:00 Noon; and every Wednesday now through October 25 4:00 pm until sold out. Come enjoy a summer tradition here in Muncie at the Farmers Market at Minnetrista. Browse vendors for locally grown fresh vegetables, herbs, flowers (hanging baskets, annuals & perennials), honey, bakery items, eggs, fruits, cheeses and savory meats and more (as well as all your favorite items from the Orchard Shop). . The last Saturday of every month will feature cooking demonstrations using fresh produce and other items from the Farmers Market. Delicious foods created by chefs from the American Culinary Federation will be in the Orchard Shop courtyard. Sweet corn and tomatoes are now available too!!

Through December 6th- Fall classes at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Call Cornerstone at 765.281.9503 to be added to the mailing list or pick up a brochure in the building. You can also register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through January 20 - Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm at Minnetrista. Discover the past of Indiana agriculture while learning about the current process of farming at Minnetrista now through January 20. Visit www.minnetrista.net for info.

OCTOBER EVENTS:

3rd - The Mitchell Place Studio will host an Open House on Wednesday, October 3rd at 301 S. Walnut St. Suite 102. The special re-opening celebration is sponsored by Ball State University's Digital Exchange Immersive Institutes and Center for Media Design. A reception will be held from 5-7pm, with opening remarks at 5:30pm from BSU President Jo Ann Gora. Please RSVP to Dana Williams at 765-285-4321 or ddwilliams@bsu.edu.

3rd-7th - Middletown Idol and Junior Middletown Idol preliminary and final competition at Cornerstone Center for theArts. Visit www.cornerstonearts.org for info.

4th - ArtsWalk, 5-9pm at the art galleries in Downtown Muncie and at Ball State University. All retail merchants on Walnut and Main St. will keep extended hours during Art Walk and will have special treats in store just for you. Just stop in and see what they are up to! Call 282-7897 for details.

5th-6th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

6th - Vera Mae presents a Gourmet Beer Dinner featuring Upland Beer 6pm--reservations required.

7th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 2:00pm

7th- Minnetrista presents "Flavors of Fall" on Oct. 7 from 5:30 pm- 8 pm. Guests will watch and participate as chefs from the American Culinary Federation prepare a fall-focused meal using ingredients from Farmers Market at Minnetrista. The multi-course meal will feature a starter, entree, and finale. New Day Meadery will also provide wine pairings for each course. For reservations, call (765) 213-3549 RSVP Deadline: Friday, September 28

7th - October 7, 2007 - Walks Across Indiana on the Cardinal Greenway, including the Get Out and Play 5K run and walk. For more information, contact Cardinal Greenway, Inc. at 765-287-0399 or BSU Office of Recreation Services at 765-285-1753, or visit www.cardinalgreenways.org

11th-12th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

13th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

17th - Wellness Wednesdays every third Wednesday through October at the Wysor Street depot, 9:00 am - 11:00 am. Delaware County Health Department staff will offer free blood pressure and glucose testing. Cholesterol screening is also available for a small charge. For questions, contact Angel Silvers at Cardinal Greenway, Inc. 287-0399.

18th-19th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

20th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

26th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

27th - 2007 Run the Greenway 10K run and 5K walk. Begin and end at the Wysor Street Depot. Race/walk begins at 9:00 am, registration 7:30 - 8:30 am. Entry fee $12 until October 19th, $15 after and day of event. Awards for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place top Male and Female racers and in 13 age categories. Entry forms available at the Wysor Street Depot or on-line at www.cardinalgreenways.org, click on calendar.

27th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

OCTOBER ONGOING:

1st-31st The Artist Within features members of the Muncie Artist Guild, opening reception Oct. 4th from 5-9pm.

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

SEND NEWS ITEMS:

Send information on downtown-related events for the weekly emailed newsletter to nancylnorris@aol.com.

Send information to be added to the downtown website to info@munciedowntown.com.

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

Passing of the Buffalo Finds New Home at Roundabout

The Passing of the Buffalo sculpture will begin its journey home Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 7:30am. The sculpture has been in the lobby of Minnetrista since 1999. It will take a crew of 6 men, plus equipment, about 3 hours to remove the large sculpture.

Passing of the Buffalo was created by Cyrus E. Dallin (1861-1944). Dallin was known for his western-themed sculptures, especially those relating to Native Americans. In 1929, he completed Passing of the Buffalo, also known as The Last Arrow. A loin-cloth clad Chief stands with a moccasined foot resting carelessly upon the dried skull of a long-dead buffalo. The feathers of his headdress flow impressively to the ground behind him; a necklace of three bear claws adorns his chest. His arrowless bow hangs uselessly from one hand. He stares off into the distance but his face shows no emotion.

The sculpture was purchased by Edmund F. Petty in 1975, who proposed that it be acquired as a tribute to his father, Fred J. Petty. In 1976, the memorial was donated to the City of Muncie and was installed at the intersection of Walnut and Charles Streets in front of the Ball Stores department store. By the summer of 1999, the department store had closed, and the building had been demolished. Street repairs necessitated moving the statue, so the opportunity was taken to perform much-needed restoration and preservation. The sculpture has been displayed at Minnetrista since the restoration.


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 mission is to create awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the natural and cultural heritage of East Central Indiana. It offers dynamic community activities and exhibits that honor and reflect its mission. For more information about Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net.

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Harvest Moon Film Festival Coming to Downtown in Nov.

Harvest Moon Film Festival: A Gathering of Films and Filmmakers Celebrating the Midwest will feature classic Midwestern films and submissions from regional filmmakers.

The festival is sponsored by Ball State University, Community Foundation, Cornerstone Center for the Arts, Downtown Development, Indiana Arts Commission, Indiana Films, LLP, Joseph David Advertising, Muncie Civic Theatre, Muncie Sanitary District and Taylor University.

The festival will be opening with the Gala Dinner, followed by the Awards Ceremony, on Thursday, November 8. The Harvest Moon Film Festival will be awarding the grand prize of $3,000 to the top film. The Keynote Speaker will be Jeff Sparks, CEO and President of the Heartland Film Festival in Indianapolis.

The festival will continue celebrations on Friday with film screenings at Cornerstone Center for the Arts and Muncie Civic Theatre. Filmmakers will be available at various screenings to speak on behalf of their work. The full schedule will be released in early October.

Saturday, November 10, will feature a Film Vendor Fair, with information, internships and employment opportunities, followed by an Education Seminar. The seminar will have workshops and training in various areas of the art of filmmaking for high school and college students as well as anyone interested in learning more about film. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the afternoon and evening screenings of the award winning films.

The last day of the festival will provide a Q&A session with the award winning filmmakers located at Muncie Civic Theatre. The Viewer's Choice Award will also be presented to the film receiving the most votes at screenings throughout the weekend.

Who: Open to the public
What: Harvest Moon Film Festival
Where: Cornerstone Center for the Arts and Muncie Civic Theatre
When: Thursday, November 8th - Sunday, November 11th


For more information about purchasing tickets, film schedules, becoming a sponsor, volunteering, or other details, visit www.harvestmoonfilmfestival.com or contact Robby Tompkins, Festival Chairman, at rtompkins@cornerstonearts.org or 281.9503.

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Middletown Idol Event is Cancelled

MIDDLETOWN IDOL EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED
PLEASE DISREGARD THE FOLLOWING ANNOUNCEMENT.



Middletown Idol is a solo vocal contest sponsored by the Cornerstone Center for the Arts, Sam Pierceand WLBC Radio. It is loosely based on the American Idol television competition. Middletown Idol is a fundraising event with proceeds benefiting art programming at Cornerstone Center for the Arts.

Contestants must register by phone or in person and submit an application with an application fee. Registration will take place Sept 18 - 21, 2007 from 3pm - 8pm at the information desk on the 2nd floor of Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Cornerstone Center for the Arts reserves the right to extend registration, if deemed necessary.

Junior Middletown Idol contestants will compete Tuesday, October 3 for preliminaries, and will be notified on Wednesday for final competition on Friday, October 6. Due to the number of contestants, preliminary nights will not include any commentary from the judges.

Middletown Idol contestants will compete Wednesday and Thursday, October 4 & 5 for preliminaries, and be notified on Friday of final competition for Saturday, October 7. Due to the number of contestants, preliminary nights will not include any commentary from the judges.

20 contestants from Junior Middletown Idol will be chosen as finalists to compete on Friday night. Five of the twenty finalists will be chosen to give an encore performance to decide the First, Second, and Third Place winners. A Master of Ceremonies will host the competition and judges will be permitted to make comments on the performances. The winner of Junior Middletown Idol will perform on Saturday, October 7 for Middletown Idol Contest.

20 contestants from Middletown Idol will be chosen as finalist to compete on Saturday night. Five of the twenty finalists will be chosen to give an encore performance to decide the First, Second, and Third Place winners. A Master of Ceremonies will host the competition and judges will be permitted to make comments on the performances.

Five judges will use a 100-point scale for each contestant.

All contestants are to sign agreement to rules and regulations. All contestants under 18 must have a signed parental consent.

Junior Middletown Idol has cash prizes of $250 for 1st Prize; $100 for 2nd Prize; and $50 for 3rd Prize. Certificates of participation will be presented to all final contestants, along with other gifts for the finalists and winners.

Middletown Idol has cash prizes of $500 for 1st Prize; $250 for 2nd Prize; and $100 for 3rd Prize. Certificates of participation will be presented to all final contestants, along with other gifts for the finalists and winners.

For more information, please contact the Cornerstone Center for the Arts Box Office at (765) 289-9687 or email Brett A. Ellison, Director of Rentals & Events at bellison@cornerstonearts.org. Remember to put Middletown Idol in the Subject line. Good Luck!

Weekly Downtown E-News 9/20/07

Lots of Downtown Announcements this week! First, many thanks to the Ball State Daily News for the wonderful writeup in Tuesday's paper, "What's Up Downtown." CLICK HERE to read the article online.

The Muncie Downtown Business Council will hold a special session with the Mayoral candidates on Thursday, September 27th at 3pm in the Star Press conference room. PLEASE NOTE: This meeting is a departure from the regularly scheduled MDBC members meeting, normally held on the last Wednesday of each month. Immediately following the Mayoral Event will be a DBC "Meet the Members Mixer" from 5 to 7pm at The Artist Within. Please make a point to attend! We value your input.

The Mitchell Place Studio will host an Open House on Wednesday, October 3rd at 301 S. Walnut St. Suite 102. The special re-opening celebration is sponsored by Ball State University's Digital Exchange Immersive Institutes and Center for Media Design. Learn how this space will host immersive learning; collaboration with industry on digital projects that help Delaware County businesses compete; digital media training; and community outreach programs that help businesses anticipate digital media impact on their industry. A reception will be held from 5-7pm, with opening remarks at 5:30pm from BSU President Jo Ann Gora. Please RSVP to Dana Williams at 765-285-4321 or ddwilliams@bsu.edu.

Annual ArtWalk returns on October 4th 5-9pm: in addition to the well-established "First Thursday" art openings Downtown, BSU will share with Downtown a wealth of musical talent and visual artistry. Any artist/poet/musician/filmmaker/dancers or theatrical groups who would like to be involved in the evening's festivities are encouraged to call: Cheryl Crowder @ 282-7897. For more information please visit www.munciedowntown.com.

SEPTEMBER EVENTS:

20th - R.D. Hunt Studio and Gallery will have a Grand Opening on Thursday, Sept. 20 at its new downtown location, 118 S. Walnut St. A ribbon cutting ceremony is at 4:15pm, with an open house from 4-7pm.

20th - Gallery 308 Living Arts Series presents Ball State art professor and art historian Ron Rarick, who will present "How to View an Art Exhibit and Get the Most from the Experience."

20th-22nd Main Street Studio Theatre presents: The Hot Jazz Cabaret 8pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY.

22nd - The Artist Within presents the first "Late Night Saturday Live," from 8pm-midnight, featuring live music with a $5 cover that covers your studio fee if you choose to paint pottery. BSU msuician Craig Furnivall is the featured musician. Hope to see a lot of you who would like to listen to live music in a smoke-free/alcohol-free environment...join us for a relaxing evening in our beautiful studio.

22nd - Carenza's Caravan & Downtown Development are proud to present Muncie's first Belly Dance Carnivale downtown on Walnut Street.Featuring performers from all over the USA, live music, vendors selling belly dance items, food from the Acropolis, henna & makeup artists, & more! For more information visit www.carenzascaravan.com or call 765-717-2248.

22nd - Farm Fun Day at Minnetrista from 1-4pm Come on your own or bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun as we celebrate Indiana's agricultural heritage. Visitors will enjoy fun activities, including, crazy competitions, making apple head dolls, tractors and animals and much more! This event is FREE with paid admission! Visit www.minnetrista.net for info.

22nd - Muncie Civic Theatre features: The Second City with their new show "One Nation, Under Blog" 8pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY.

22nd - Muncie Civic Theatre Fall Acting Classes call 288-PLAY for details

23rd - Doc's Music Hall presents Hank Williams III with special guests Those Poor Bastards. Visit www.docsmusichall.com for details.

25th - Property Tax Repeal meeting and rally, starting at 6:30pm at the Delaware County Fairgrounds Memorial Building. For more information call 765-881-0183 or visit www.propertytaxrepeal.com.

27th - The Muncie Downtown Business Council will hold a special session with the Mayoral candidates, from 3 to 5pm in the Star Press conference room. Immediately following the Mayoral Event, DBC Vice President Bob Hartley will host a "Meet the Members Mixer" at the Artist Within from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. This is an excellent opportunity to network with your downtown peers, and to learn all about the Downtown Business Council and our continued efforts to market your organization and our downtown neighborhood.

27th - Downtown Business Council will have a "Meet the Members" mixer, from 5 to 7 pm at The Artist Within. Anyone is invited to attend and learn more about the Muncie Downtown Business Council.

27th - Altrusa Style Show at the Horizon Convention Center. Lunch show at noon, dinner show at 7pm. Contact Sandra Hoover @ 747-3128

28th - 29th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

29th - Minnetrista: Farmers Market Cooking Demonstrations 9:00am

29th - Muncie Children's Museum - Free Family Saturday. Free admission from 10 am to 5 pm.

SEPTEMBER ONGOING :

Through Sept. 29- Gallery 308 will exhibit "Earthbound" - Photographs of the Midwest By Earlham College Artist in Residence Walt Bistline, with an opening reception at the Gallery on September 6; the public is invited to meet the artist.

Through September - The Artist Within will feature paintings by Lynnette Whitesell throughout September. "containments: works of a small town grandeur" is the exhibit of a series of paintings created by Lynnette while on an Indiana individual artist grant. An opening reception will be held First Thursday, September 6 from 5-8pm.

Through September - Artworks will exhibit "Sculptures with a Whimsical Musical Feeling" during September. Artist Kim Kneist will display Medium Galvanized & Copper Metal Sculptures at the non-profit gallery and shop, with an opening reception during First Thursday on September 6, from 5:30 to 8:30pm. Ongoing exhibits feature Lynette Whitesell-acrylic painting; Pat Garafalo- watercolors; Jon Peterson - pottery; and Heidi Hale- jewelry artistry.

Through September - Martha Gilliom and Shonet Lambert Martin will join owner Genny Gordy for the September art show at Gordy Fine Art and Framing in downtown Muncie. Titled, "Works on Paper," the show includes watercolors by Gilliom, collages by Martin and mixed media and watercolors by Gordy. A reception for the artists will be held during the First Thursday from 5 to 8 PM. Light refreshments will be served and the public is invited to attend. For more information call 284-8422 or visit www.gordyframing.com .

Through September - Muncie Children's Museum - MCM Young Gardeners. Beginning June 20 and running through August. Every Wednesday and Friday at 3 p.m., children of all ages can enjoy gardening, nature and the environment in the Museum's Outdoor Learning Center. The program is free with regular Museum admission and free to members. 286-1660 or www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

Through September - Muncie Children's Museum - Pre-School Clubs. Train Club meets on Tuesdays from 10:30-11:30 am. Dino Club meets on Thursdays from 10:30-11:30 am. Messy Stuff Art Club meets on Fridays from 10:30-11:30 am. Pre-registration is not required. Contact the Museum at 286-1660 for details and cost, or visit our website at www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

Through September- Daily Themed Days at the Muncie Childrens Museum. Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, starting at 11:00 a.m. and the last activity of the day starts at 3:00 p.m. The current themed days are: Tricky Tuesday, Weird Science Wednesday, Theatre Thursday and Fun Friday. Children will take part in activities associated with each themed day such as story time, science activities and art projects in Make N Take. No registration is required. All themed day activities are included with the price of admission. Children can bring a lunch. For more information, contact the Museum at 286-1660 or visit our website at www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

Through October 1 - Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show Minnetrista is celebrating its regional heritage with its first juried glass art show and sale September 1 through October 1. Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show commemorates the Ball Brothers Manufacturing Company's contribution to Minnetrista and showcases glass artists from Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky and Michigan.

Through October 7 - Munciedowntown.com presents "Classic Rock & Roll Art by Tom Wilkes" show and sale at Doc's Music Hall. The exhibit will feature artwork from the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival; rejected album cover art for George Harrison and Neil Young; and select prints from his "Legends of the West" series, including rare photographs of Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris and bluegrass legend Bill Monroe. An opening reception will be held on First Thursday, September 6 from 5-8pm.

Through October 15th - Minnetrista features Open Space: Art About the Land is an art competition and exhibition which recognizes and encourages artists in East Central Indiana who derive creative inspiration from the land, or whose work celebrates the notion of open space as it relates to the land. Visit www.minnetrista.net for info.

Through October 28 - Minnetrista Farmers Market in the Orchard Shop Parking Lot - meets every Saturday, now through October 28 8:00 am - 12:00 Noon; and every Wednesday now through October 25 4:00 pm until sold out. Come enjoy a summer tradition here in Muncie at the Farmers Market at Minnetrista. Browse vendors for locally grown fresh vegetables, herbs, flowers (hanging baskets, annuals & perennials), honey, bakery items, eggs, fruits, cheeses and savory meats and more (as well as all your favorite items from the Orchard Shop). . The last Saturday of every month will feature cooking demonstrations using fresh produce and other items from the Farmers Market. Delicious foods created by chefs from the American Culinary Federation will be in the Orchard Shop courtyard. Sweet corn and tomatoes are now available too!!

Through December 6th- Fall classes at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Call Cornerstone at 765.281.9503 to be added to the mailing list or pick up a brochure in the building. You can also register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through January 20 - Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm at Minnetrista. Discover the past of Indiana agriculture while learning about the current process of farming at Minnetrista now through January 20. Visit www.minnetrista.net for info.

OCTOBER EVENTS:

3rd - The Mitchell Place Studio will host an Open House on Wednesday, October 3rd at 301 S. Walnut St. Suite 102. The special re-opening celebration is sponsored by Ball State University's Digital Exchange Immersive Institutes and Center for Media Design. A reception will be held from 5-7pm, with opening remarks at 5:30pm from BSU President Jo Ann Gora. Please RSVP to Dana Williams at 765-285-4321 or ddwilliams@bsu.edu.

3rd-7th - Middletown Idol and Junior Middletown Idol preliminary and final competition at Cornerstone Center for theArts. Visit www.cornerstonearts.org for info.

4th - ArtsWalk, 5-9pm at the art galleries in Downtown Muncie and at Ball State University. All retail merchants on Walnut and Main St. will keep extended hours during Art Walk and will have special treats in store just for you. Just stop in and see what they are up to! Call 282-7897 for details.

5th-6th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

6th - Vera Mae presents a Gourmet Beer Dinner featuring Upland Beer 6pm--reservations required.

7th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 2:00pm

11th-12th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

13th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

17th - Wellness Wednesdays every third Wednesday through October at the Wysor Street depot, 9:00 am - 11:00 am. Delaware County Health Department staff will offer free blood pressure and glucose testing. Cholesterol screening is also available for a small charge. For questions, contact Angel Silvers at Cardinal Greenway, Inc. 287-0399.

18th-19th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

20th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

26th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

27th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

OCTOBER ONGOING:

1st-31st The Artist Within features members of the Muncie Artist Guild, opening reception Oct. 4th from 5-9pm.

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

SEND NEWS ITEMS:

Send information on downtown-related events for the weekly emailed newsletter to nancylnorris@aol.com.

Send information to be added to the downtown website to info@munciedowntown.com.

Minnetrista Presents Open Space: Art About the Land

Visit the galleries at Minnetrista September 15-October 15 for a look at Open Space: Art About the Land. "Art About the Land" is an art competition and exhibition which recognizes and encourages artists in East Central Indiana who derive creative inspiration from the land, or whose work celebrates the notion of open space as it relates to the land.

A portion of the proceeds from the exhibit will go to help the Red-tail Conservancy further its mission to preserve and restore ecologically significant land in East Central Indiana.

Admission is $4 child/student, $6 senior and $7 adult. Exhibit hours are Mon. - Sat., 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. For more information, call (765) 282-4848 or visit www.minnetrista.net.

Located along historic White River, Minnetrista includes 40 acres of beautiful gardens and grounds, a modern museum facility, an historic home, Nature Area, numerous sculptures, and a portion of the White River Greenway. Minnetrista serves East Central Indiana with dynamic community activities and exhibits that honor and reflect its natural and cultural heritage. For more information about Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net.

Farm Fun Day This Saturday at Minnetrista

Join us at Minnetrista Saturday, September 22 for Farm Fun Day, a celebration of agriculture in Indiana. An afternoon of fun activities for families from 1 -4 p.m. will include an exhibit, crafts, contests, and more. All activities are included with exhibit admission ($4 child/student; $6 senior; $7 adult).

Au Tractor Display and information, 1930s - present, 1 - 4 p.m.

White River Heritage Antique Association

Au See the exhibit, 1 - 4 p.m.

Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm

Au The Grand Spinners Square Dancing Club, 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

Square Dance Demonstration & open lessons

Au Pedal Tractor Race, 3:30 - 4 p.m.

(ages 4 - 9)

Au Apple Craft, 1 - 4 p.m.

Apple Head Dolls

Au Tomato Toss Contest (TBA)

Au Watermelon Seed Spitting contest (TBA)

Au Meet some Farm Animals, 1 - 4 p.m.

Au Door Prizes

Au And more

Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the outdoors at Minnetrista, meet some local farmers, their animals, and engage in an afternoon of family fun while celebrating agriculture in Indiana!

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

Mitchell Place Studio to Host Open House Oct. 3

The Mitchell Place Studio will host an Open House on Wednesday, October 3rd at 301 S. Walnut St. Suite 102.

The special re-opening celebration is sponsored by Ball State University's Digital Exchange Immersive Institutes and Center for Media Design. Learn how this space will host immersive learning; collaboration with industry on digital projects that help Delaware County businesses compete; digital media training; and community outreach programs that help businesses anticipate digital media impact on their industry.

A reception will be held from 5-7pm, with opening remarks at 5:30pm from BSU President Jo Ann Gora. Please RSVP to Dana Williams at 765-285-4321 or ddwilliams@bsu.edu.

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

The Artist Within Presents the First "Late Night Saturday Live"

This Saturday, September 22, from 8pm-midnight is the first "Late Nite
Saturday Live" featuring live music with a $5 cover that covers your
studio fee if you choose to paint pottery. BSU msuician Craig Furnivall
is the featured musician. Hope to see a lot of you who would like to
listen to live music in a smoke-free/alcohol-free environment...join us
for a relaxing evening in our beautiful studio.

The Artist Within will also host the Downtown Business Council's "Meet the Members Mixer" on Thursday, Sept. 27 from 5-7pm, immediately following the DBC meeting with the mayoral candidates at the Star Press building.

Lynette Whitesell's "containments" series of paintings of rural Indiana
remains on display the rest of this month at the Artist Within.

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Mayoral Candidates to Speak at a Special Meeting of the Downtown Business Council

The Muncie Downtown Business Council will hold a special session with the Mayoral candidates on Thursday, September 27th from 3 to 5pm in the Star Press conference room.

This special meeting is a departure from the regularly scheduled MDBC members meeting, normally held on the last Wednesday of each month.

Immediately following the Mayoral Event, DBC Vice President Bob Hartley will host a "Meet the Members Mixer" at the Artist Within from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. This is an excellent opportunity to network with your downtown peers, and to learn all about the Downtown Business Council and our continued efforts to market your organization and our downtown neighborhood.

The next "Meet the Members" mixer is scheduled for November 29 at Cornerstone Center for the Arts.

Provided below is the agenda for the meeting along with the five initial questions we'll be asking each of the candidates:

1. Welcome & Introductions (2-3 minutes)

2. Mayoral Candidate Opening Remarks (at this time each candidate will have up to eight (8) minutes to share general platforms...anything you want to share with those in attendance)

3. Planned Questions: 1) Why are you running for mayor? 2) What is your position on downtown Muncie...to what degree of emphasis will you place your efforts toward the downtown? 3) What roll can you provide in facilitating a more meaningful dialogue between BSU and downtown Muncie? 4) What will your approach be in dealing with the Hotel Roberts? and 5) There are two organizations that focus to higher degree on downtown Muncie--that being the MDBC and Heart of the City. What rolls do you understand them to each maintain and how do you see yourself utilizing these entities during your tenure as mayor? (Questions will be alternated between each candidate so that neither candidate has an on-going advantage through the Q & A process.)

4. Questions from the audience (selected using index card submissions and gleaned so that a variety of questions can be responded to).

5. Closing Statements (up to five (5) minutes each.)

Annual ArtsWalk Returns on First Thursday, Oct. 4

Downtown Development and Ball State University's Departments of Fine Art and Music will join forces with downtown merchants, galleries and property owners for an evening of art, food and music for Artwalk 2007, 5-9 p.m. Oct. 4.

All retail merchants on Walnut and Main streets will be open for extended hours during ArtWalk, and will have special treats in store.

Any artist, poet, musician, filmmaker, dancer or theatrical group interested in being involved in the evening's festivities, as well as any business or organization with special events planned, should call Cheryl Crowder at Downtown Development, (765) 282-7897.

They are looking for info from all art galleries, restaurants, clubs or individual merchants who might have an exhibit, open house or entertainment available for our downtown guests on October 4th.

If you are an arts related organization not already located Downtown and would like us to find a place for you to set-up or perform, let them know!

If you are an information source, please send this request for info to you e-mail list or post to your website.

To be included in the "ArtsWalk" map, send information to chercrowder@gmail.com by next Tuesday, September 25th.

Friday, September 14, 2007

RD Hunt Studio and Gallery

R.D. Hunt Studio and Gallery will have a Grand Opening on Thursday, Sept. 20 at its new downtown location, 118 S. Walnut St. A ribbon cutting ceremony is at 4:15pm, with an open house from 4-7pm.

Photographer Rick Hunt, who still operates a studio in Modoc, relocated his local studio from Muncie's northwest side to the Heath Iron Building, which most recently contained a food court. The building has been extensively remodeled for Hunt's studio, which also includes gallery space.

Thursday, September 13, 2007

Weekly Downtown E-News 9/13/07

The Muncie Downtown Business Council will hold a special session with the Mayoral candidates on Thursday, September 27th at 3pm in the Star Press conference room. This meeting will take the place of the regularly scheduled MDBC members meeting, normally held on the last Wednesday of each month. Immediately following the Mayoral Event will be a DBC "Meet the Members Mixer" from 5 to 7pm at The Artist Within.

Annual ArtWalk on October 4th 5-9pm: in addition to the well-established "First Thursday" art openings Downtown, BSU will share with Downtown a wealth of musical talent and visual artistry. All retail merchants on Walnut and Main St. will keep extended hours during Art Walk and will have special treats in store just for you. Just stop in and see what they are up to! Any artist/poet/musician/filmmaker/dancers or theatrical groups who would like to be involved in the evening's festivities are encouraged to call: Cheryl Crowder @ 282-7897. For more information please visit www.munciedowntown.com.

SEPTEMBER EVENTS:

14th-15th Main Street Studio Theatre presents: The Hot Jazz Cabaret 8pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY.

15th - Artworks Gallery Annual Artists Attic, from 8:30 am to 4 pm at Artworks. Featuring artwork, paintings, pottery, prints, jewelry, woodwork as well as new or used brushes, paint, pastels, printers, cameras, art books, as well as fiction and non-fiction, paper, tools, baskets, boxes, greeting cards, frames and lot of other items to numerous to mention.

15th Muncie Civic Theatre: auditions are open to all ages and levels of experience for upcoming shows of The Rocky Horror Show, Annie, A Christmas Story, Christmas with PDQ Back and Ragtime. 1:00pm

16th Main Street Studio Theatre presents: The Hot Jazz Cabaret 2pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY.

18th-28th Cornerstone for the Arts is taking registration for Middletown Idol; two divisions, adult and junior--big prize money!

19th - Wellness Wednesdays every third Wednesday through October at the Wysor Street depot, 9:00 am - 11:00 am. Delaware County Health Department staff will offer free blood pressure and glucose testing. Cholesterol screening is also available for a small charge. For questions, contact Angel Silvers at Cardinal Greenway, Inc. 287-0399.

20th - Gallery 308 Living Arts Series presents Ball State art professor and art historian Ron Rarick, who will present "How to View an Art Exhibit and Get the Most from the Experience."

20th-22nd Main Street Studio Theatre presents: The Hot Jazz Cabaret 8pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY.

22nd - Carenza's Caravan & Downtown Development are proud to present Muncie's first Belly Dance Carnivale downtown on Walnut Street.Featuring performers from all over the USA, live music, vendors selling belly dance items, food from the Acropolis, henna & makeup artists, & more! For more information visit www.carenzascaravan.com or call 765-717-2248.

22nd - Farm Fun Day at Minnetrista from 1-4pm Come on your own or bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun as we celebrate Indiana's agricultural heritage. Visitors will enjoy fun activities, including, crazy competitions, making apple head dolls, tractors and animals and much more! This event is FREE with paid admission! Visit www.minnetrista.net for info.

22nd - Muncie Civic Theatre features: The Second City with their new show "One Nation, Under Blog" 8pm. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY.

22nd - Muncie Civic Theatre Fall Acting Classes call 288-PLAY for details

23rd - Doc's Music Hall presents Hank Williams III with special guests Those Poor Bastards. Visit www.fmmusiclive.com for details.

27th - Downtown Business Council Meeting with the Mayoral Candidates, 3pm in the Star Press building conference room.

27th - Downtown Business Council will have a "Meet the Members" mixer, from 5 to 7 pm at The Artist Within. Anyone is invited to attend and learn more about the Muncie Downtown Business Council.

27th - Altrusa Style Show at the Horizon Convention Center. Lunch show at noon, dinner show at 7pm. Contact Sandra Hoover @ 747-3128

28th - 29th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

29th - Minnetrista: Farmers Market Cooking Demonstrations 9:00am

29th - Muncie Children's Museum - Free Family Saturday. Free admission from 10 am to 5 pm.

SEPTEMBER ONGOING :

Through Sept 3 Minnetrista: GPS Adventures - Explore the latest craze in technology with GPS Adventures. Find out how global positioning systems are used not only for serious business, but for fun and recreation. (765) 282-4848.

Sept. 10 through Dec. 6 - Fall classes at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Call Cornerstone at 765.281.9503 to be added to the mailing list or pick up a brochure in the building. You can also register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Through Sept. 29- Gallery 308 will exhibit "Earthbound" - Photographs of the Midwest By Earlham College Artist in Residence Walt Bistline, with an opening reception at the Gallery on September 6; the public is invited to meet the artist.

Through September - Munciedowntown.com presents "Classic Rock & Roll Art by Tom Wilkes" show and sale at Doc's Music Hall. The exhibit will feature artwork from the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival; rejected album cover art for George Harrison and Neil Young; and select prints from his "Legends of the West" series, including rare photographs of Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris and bluegrass legend Bill Monroe. An opening reception will be held on First Thursday, September 6 from 5-8pm.

Through September - The Artist Within will feature paintings by Lynnette Whitesell throughout September. "containments: works of a small town grandeur" is the exhibit of a series of paintings created by Lynnette while on an Indiana individual artist grant. An opening reception will be held First Thursday, September 6 from 5-8pm.

Through September - Artworks will exhibit "Sculptures with a Whimsical Musical Feeling" during September. Artist Kim Kneist will display Medium Galvanized & Copper Metal Sculptures at the non-profit gallery and shop, with an opening reception during First Thursday on September 6, from 5:30 to 8:30pm. Ongoing exhibits feature Lynette Whitesell-acrylic painting; Pat Garafalo- watercolors; Jon Peterson - pottery; and Heidi Hale- jewelry artistry.

Through September - Martha Gilliom and Shonet Lambert Martin will join owner Genny Gordy for the September art show at Gordy Fine Art and Framing in downtown Muncie. Titled, "Works on Paper," the show includes watercolors by Gilliom, collages by Martin and mixed media and watercolors by Gordy. A reception for the artists will be held during the First Thursday from 5 to 8 PM. Light refreshments will be served and the public is invited to attend. For more information call 284-8422 or visit www.gordyframing.com .

Through September - Muncie Children's Museum - MCM Young Gardeners. Beginning June 20 and running through August. Every Wednesday and Friday at 3 p.m., children of all ages can enjoy gardening, nature and the environment in the Museum's Outdoor Learning Center. The program is free with regular Museum admission and free to members. 286-1660 or www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

Through September - Muncie Children's Museum - Pre-School Clubs. Train Club meets on Tuesdays from 10:30-11:30 am. Dino Club meets on Thursdays from 10:30-11:30 am. Messy Stuff Art Club meets on Fridays from 10:30-11:30 am. Pre-registration is not required. Contact the Museum at 286-1660 for details and cost, or visit our website at www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

Through September- Daily Themed Days at the Muncie Childrens Museum. Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, starting at 11:00 a.m. and the last activity of the day starts at 3:00 p.m. The current themed days are: Tricky Tuesday, Weird Science Wednesday, Theatre Thursday and Fun Friday. Children will take part in activities associated with each themed day such as story time, science activities and art projects in Make N Take. No registration is required. All themed day activities are included with the price of admission. Children can bring a lunch. For more information, contact the Museum at 286-1660 or visit our website at www.munciechildrensmuseum.com.

Through October 1 - Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show Minnetrista is celebrating its regional heritage with its first juried glass art show and sale September 1 through October 1. Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show commemorates the Ball Brothers Manufacturing Company's contribution to Minnetrista and showcases glass artists from Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky and Michigan.

Through October 28 - Minnetrista Farmers Market in the Orchard Shop Parking Lot - meets every Saturday, now through October 28 8:00 am - 12:00 Noon; and every Wednesday now through October 25 4:00 pm until sold out. Come enjoy a summer tradition here in Muncie at the Farmers Market at Minnetrista. Browse vendors for locally grown fresh vegetables, herbs, flowers (hanging baskets, annuals & perennials), honey, bakery items, eggs, fruits, cheeses and savory meats and more (as well as all your favorite items from the Orchard Shop). . The last Saturday of every month will feature cooking demonstrations using fresh produce and other items from the Farmers Market. Delicious foods created by chefs from the American Culinary Federation will be in the Orchard Shop courtyard. Sweet corn and tomatoes are now available too!!

Through December 6th - Fall Classes at Cornerstone Center for the Arts. For more information call 281-9503 or register online at www.cornerstonearts.org

Through January 20 - Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm at Minnetrista. Discover the past of Indiana agriculture while learning about the current process of farming at Minnetrista now through January 20. Visit www.minnetrista.net for info.

OCTOBER EVENTS:

4th - ArtsWalk, 5-9pm at the art galleries in Downtown Muncie and at Ball State University. Call 282-7897 for details.

5th-6th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

7th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 2:00pm

11th-12th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

13th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

17th - Wellness Wednesdays every third Wednesday through October at the Wysor Street depot, 9:00 am - 11:00 am. Delaware County Health Department staff will offer free blood pressure and glucose testing. Cholesterol screening is also available for a small charge. For questions, contact Angel Silvers at Cardinal Greenway, Inc. 287-0399.

18th-19th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

20th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

26th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: FOOTLOOSE 7:30pm

27th Muncie Civic Theatre presents: Frankenstein 7:30pm

OCTOBER ONGOING:

1st-31st The Artist Within features members of the Muncie Artist Guild, opening reception Oct. 4th from 5-9pm.

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SEND NEWS ITEMS:

Send information on downtown-related events for the weekly emailed newsletter to nancylnorris@aol.com.

Send information to be added to the downtown website to info@munciedowntown.com.

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Tuesday, September 11, 2007

October at The Artist Within

The Artist Within will feature artwork by members of the Muncie Artists Guild. Muncie Artists Guild was organized in 1952 as the Amateur Artists Association. Their first show was held in June of 1952 in Ball Stores' Blue Room.

Through the years, the group met and painted together in member's homes, plus enjoyed painting excursions to the Matthews Covered Bridge and the gravel pit on Cornbread Road. Many members took classes at Ball State and studied with Dr. Alice Nichols. Dr. Nichols became a mentor to them and encouraged them to exhibit at the Ball State Art Gallery, currently the Ball State Museum of Art. In time, the group decided to drop the "amateur" from their title and changed their name to the Muncie Artists Guild.

The Guild meets monthly at the Minnetrista Cultural Center where a variety of programs are presented by guest artists and lecturers. They also host a juried show at Minnetrista in August.

During first Thursday's ArtsWalk, the upstairs gallery will exhibit paintings and be the site for several Guild artists to demonstrate their drawing and painting techniques. Opening reception Thursday Oct. 4th/5-9.

Heidi J. Hale continues her jewelry workshop offerings throughout October. Call or stop by for more information and a schedule of classes.

Indianapolis Art Clay Silver Artist/Instructor Marti Icenogle will offer classes on two Saturdays in October. "Basic Art Clay Silver" and "Lacy Ball Earrings" will be held on October 6th and "Lentil Beads" will be offered October 26th. Check our website for times, class description and cost.

Kim Anderson's throwing lessons are still popular; plan ahead for best choice of times... call to schedule a lesson. Already know how to throw? Come rent the wheel...only $10/hr.!

Story time for pre-schoolers and moms is back...story, snack, and paint a piece of pottery!

Call for info and to schedule a story.

"Create for the Cure" will take place from October 1-6. 100% of studio fees collected during the week will go to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Local artists and celebrities have participated in "Paint a Plate for the Cure" and the plates they painted will be in a silent auction during the week and the winning bids will be notified Sat. October 7th and the monies will also be donated to the Komen Foundation. Come join the fun and help a worthy cause.

Mark your calendar: "ArtsWalk", Thursday Oct 4, 5-9 pm

Living Art Series at Gallery 308 Features Ron Rarick

Ball State art professor and art historian Ron Rarick will present "How to View an Art Exhibit and Get the Most from the Experiece" for the September 20 Living Art program at Gallery 308.

Professor Rarick has a degree in Art History from the University of Kansas but he graduated from Brown County (Indiana) High School, the son of two Ball State graduates. His wife Lucinda is an art historian and artist, and son John is a senior at Muncie Central.

Rarick has taught college students for 20 years, first in Kentucky, then Indianapolis. He has taught at Ball State since 1994. His research interests have primarily been in 18 th and 19th century architecture of France and Indiana, as well as the history of musical instruments.

"Living Art" is a monthly series of free programs sponsored by Gallery 308. The programs feature guest speakers who are themselves artists or teachers. Speakers address the body of their work, provide demonstrations, or lead discussions about a variety of relevant topics.

Gallery 308 is a nonprofit community-supported art gallery, offering "Living Art" as part of its mission to inform and educate the community about the arts. Questions about Gallery 308 should be directed to 765-289-8575.

Sunday, September 09, 2007

Washington Street Festival is a Long-Standing Muncie Tradition

Don't miss the 31st annual Washington Street Festival this weekend, Sept. 15 and 16. Tour the beautiful historic homes, and enjoy the traditional fare of local arts and crafts, live music and festival food.

From their website:

31st Annual Old Washington Street Festival and Historic Home Tour
September 15 & 16, 2007
Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday 11:00am - 5:00pm

Visit Magic City Gas Boom Era Muncie, Indiana

Be a part of all the excitement and festivities during the Annual Old Washington Street Festival to be held on the four blocks of East Washington Street between Madison and Hackley Streets.

The primary focus of the Old Washington Street Festival is on the architectural, cultural, and social heritage of Muncie's Emily Kimbrough Historic District and the surrounding neighborhood. Home tours and a walking tour extend the bounds of the Festival to approximately fourteen square blocks.

At the hub of the Festival on Washington Street are demonstrations of crafts contemporary to the turn of the Emily Kimbrough Housecentury, arts and crafts displays, musical entertainment, an ice cream social and other refreshments, antiques, a milk wagon and a hand-drawn fire pumper to take visitors back to the gas boom era. We expect the variety of attractions to draw over 8,000 people.

Since 1976 the East Central Neighborhood Association in Muncie, Indiana has sponsored the Old Washington Street Festival. The Festival focuses on the architectural, cultural, and social heritage of Muncie from the late 1800s through the turn of the century.

The East Central Neighborhood boasts a great variety of housing stock, most of it built between 1870 and World War I. At the turn of the century most of Muncie's gas-boom wealth had Historical Re-enactmentsbeen lavished on homes here, and many of the twelve-block section of the area has been designated locally and by the state as the Emily Kimbrough Historic District, and in 1980 it was included on the National Register of Historic Places (see neighborhood map).

Our neighborhood includes business and industry, as well as a number of community service agencies, organizations, and churches. The architectural charm and variety of homes here have attracted a number of families to return to the city. They are involved in housing restoration projects, some ambitious restorations, and some modest maintenance and redecorating tasks.

Our residents find our neighborhood an interesting mix of cultures, lifestyles, and activities; many residents feel that they experience living in a neighborhood in the truest sense.

For more about the East Central Neighborhood Association and the Old Washington Street Festival, visit their website at http://www.muncie-ecna.org.

Saturday, September 08, 2007

Artworks Gallery Annual Artists Attic

Artworks Gallery, at 301 S. Walnut St. in Downtown Muncie, will have its annual Artits Attic on Saturday, Sept. 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Artworks artists will be cleaning out their work and storage rooms just for you. You will find for sale wonderful artwork, paintings, pottery, prints, jewelry, woodwork as well as new or used brushes, paint, pastels, printers, cameras, art books, as well as fiction and non-fiction, paper, tools, baskets, boxes, greeting cards, frames and lot of other items to numerous to mention. There will be something for everyone.

For more information call 765 288 2221.

Friday, September 07, 2007

Fall Classes at Cornerstone Center for the Arts

The Cornerstone Arts Program is excited to introduce its fall classes, which start September 10-13 and continue until December 6th. The Arts Program offers classes for youth and adults in numerous areas of the arts.

Youth (K-8th Grade) classes include: Youth Dance, Youth Hip Hop, Youth Tap, Youth Art, Youth Jewelry Making, Youth Ceramics, World Percussion, Vocal Workshop, Group Piano, Ballet classes, Kindermusik(R), Youth Drama, Creative Writing, Baby Sign Language, and Martial Arts.

Adult (8th Grade-Adult) classes include: Hip Hop Aerobics, Beginning and Intermediate Hip Hop, Dance & Fitness, Belly Dance, Scrapbooking, Art Exploration, Drawing, Painting, Adult Ceramics, Jewelry Making, Printmaking, Bookmaking, World Percussion, Vocal Workshop, Creative Writing Workshop, Basic Sign Language, Beginning Acting, and Martial Arts.

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

Register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

* What: Open registration for Fall Classes
* When: September 10 - December 6
* Where: Cornerstone Center for the Arts, 520 E. Main St. Muncie, IN 47305
* Who: Open to the public.

Call Cornerstone Center for the Arts at 765.281.9503 to be added to the mailing list or pick up a brochure in the building. You can also register online at www.cornerstonearts.org.

Thursday, September 06, 2007

Minnetrista Top Ten

Top Ten Reasons Why David Letterman Should Visit Minnetrista While He Is In Muncie:


10. You could see what an "A" student does with an education from Ball State.

9. We'd love to name an exhibit gallery after you! Bring your checkbook!

8. No one else will be here this Friday, because everyone in Muncie is going to see you.

7. Garfield has been here. Do you want to be outdone by a cartoon cat?

6. It would bring nationwide exposure to the correct pronunciation of our name.

5. You are our #1 friend on Myspace! Do you want to stay there?

4. Your mom would like Minnetrista!

3. We use BSU interns and DO NOT check their grade point average first.

2. Thanks to Minnetrista, BSU has enough barricades to protect you from your raving fans!

1. Oprah isn't invited.


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 mission is to create awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the natural and cultural heritage of East Central Indiana. It offers dynamic community activities and exhibits that honor and reflect its mission. For more information about Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net.

Wednesday, September 05, 2007

Rare Beatles Art For Sale by Downtown Muncie Company

Photo Opportunity: The Allan Hays Company will host an opening reception for the "Classic Rock & Roll Art by Tom Wilkes" show and sale on Thursday, September 6 from 5 to 8 pm, at Doc's Music Hall, located at 215 South Walnut Street in Downtown Muncie, Indiana. "Peace to Monterey" will be among the prints on exhibit through September.



RARE BEATLES ART FOR SALE
"Dead Sea Scroll of Rock & Roll" Offered for Public Sale by Muncie, IN Company


MUNCIE, IN - A rare Beatles artifact has resurfaced and is offered for public sale.

The Beatles' rare "Peace to Monterey" artwork is an original drawing with felt marker, colored pencil and ink - the only known visual art to which all four members contributed. The drawing was created in 1967 during the recording of "Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band," and included in the Monterey Pop Festival program book later that year.

The public sale of the original artwork will launch with an exhibit, "Classic Rock & Roll Art by Tom Wilkes." The art show and sale opens today in Muncie, Indiana, home to The Allan Hays Company, who is managing the sale of the original artifact. Commemorative lithographs of "Peace to Monterey" will be on display, along with prints of Wilkes' works, through September.

Wilkes, who was art director for the Monterey Pop Festival, is selling the original Beatles art to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the historic event and of the artwork. Kept in a safe deposit box for nearly 40 years, he calls it "the Dead Sea Scroll of rock and roll." It is believed to be the most valuable Beatles artifact ever offered for public sale.

"This classic piece of rock art offers a unique view into the minds of a group considered to be biggest pop culture icon of the 20th century," he said.

"It has significant cultural value as an artistic document, as it celebrates a time of great spiritual and political change in the world. And now, 40 years later, their message of peace is just as relevant."

Bids on the original artwork are being accepted only through the website peacetomonterey.com.


###

Background information:
More information about the artwork and the sale can be found at www.peacetomonterey.com.


Video Available:
http://www.youtube.com/v/tfbPYrrmIm4
or Contact Allan Hays at 765-284-9138 for broadcast quality video


Artwork Available:
Download from Press Room at www.peacetomonterey.com
or Contact Carey Hays at 765-760-3187


Contact:
The Allan Hays Company, LLC
Multimedia - Internet - Marketing
405 S. Walnut, Suite 206, Muncie IN 47305
1-800-284-8745

Doc's Music Hall
215 S. Walnut Street, Muncie IN 47305
765-286-0949
www.docsmusichall.com

Upcoming Events at Minnetrista

Farmers Market at Minnetrista - Shop Farmers Market at Minnetrista now through October 27 and get the best locally-grown produce, meat, cheese and more that summer can offer. Farmers Market is open Wednesday evenings, 4 p.m. until sold out and Saturday mornings, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Farmers Market is brought to you by WMDH, IPR, Star Press.

Farmers Market Cooking Demonstrations

Join us the last Saturday of each month at 9 a.m. for Farmers Market Cooking Demonstrations. Each month regional culinary experts will prepare a different recipe using fresh ingredients from the market. The demonstrations are presented by the local chapter of the American Culinary Federation.


In the Galleries at Minnetrista

Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm

Do you really know what you are eating? Discover the past of Indiana agriculture while learning about the current process of farming at Minnetrista now through January 20. Indiana Acres: The Changing Face of the Family Farm will explain the history of agriculture and its importance to the region.


Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show

Minnetrista is celebrating its regional heritage with its first juried glass art show and sale September 1 through October 1. Sand and Fire: A Juried Glass Show commemorates the Ball Brothers Manufacturing Company’s contribution to Minnetrista and showcases glass artists from Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky and Michigan.





Upcoming Events:

Do you Salsa?

Friday, Sept. 7 from 5:30pm-8pm

Enjoy a salsa-filled evening of fun. We’ll start by teaching you how to prepare and can your own salsa. While it’s cooking, you’ll enjoy a Salsa dance lesson! You must register by Friday, Aug 31. For more details visit us on the web at www.minnetrista.net.

PBS Program Club
America at a Crossroads: Inside America's Empire

Meet and discuss the interesting and informative productions shown on WIPB. America at a Crossroads: Inside America's Empire, airs at 10 p.m. on September 3. A reporter travels the world exploring this American empire to discover why America's role is essential to global order.

Price: Free
Pre-registration appreciated

Farm Fun Day

Saturday, Sept. 22 from 1-4pm

Come on your own or bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun as we celebrate Indiana’s agricultural heritage. Visitors will enjoy fun activities, including, crazy competitions, making apple head dolls, tractors and animals and much more! This event is FREE with paid admission! Check out the website for moredetails-www.minnetrista.net.

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

Saturday, September 01, 2007

Civic Theatre Presents an All-County High School Production of Footlooose

MUNCIE CIVIC THEATRE will kick off its 2007-2008 Season with the modern rock musical FOOTLOOSE. The play will perform on September 28, 29, October 11, 12, 20 & 26 at 7:30pm as well as on Sunday, October 7 at 2:00pm. The performances will be on the main stage at Muncie Civic Theatre, 216 East Main Street, Muncie, Indiana. Tickets are $15 for Adults, $6 for Ball State students and $5 for High School & Younger. Group rates are available. This production is rated PG. Reservations and ticket sales are available by calling 765-288-PLAY or at www.munciecivic.org. Box Office hours are Wednesday through Friday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm and one hour prior to each performance.

FOOTLOOSE, one of the most explosive and popular contemporary movies, has burst onto the live stage as a full-fledged musical written by Dean Pitchford and Walter Bobbie, based on the Original Screenplay by Dean Pitchford
with new music by Tom Snow and Dean Pitchford and original music from the film by Eric Carmen, Sammy Hagar, Kenny Loggins and Jim Steinman. The story begins when teenager Ren and his mom relocate from Chicago to a small rural town, he is not prepared for the rigorous local laws. Years ago, following a night of partying at a dance, a car accident claimed the lives of four local teens including the son of a local minister, Shaw Moore. In a misguided attempt to honor the victims, the reverend pushed through a town ordinance banning dancing and in the process kept alive a memory that can only foster pain. At the emotional heart of FOOTLOOSE is a boy longing for the father who walked out on him and a man aching for the son he lost. Ultimately, Reverend Moore realizes that only through placing trust in our young people can they become truly trustworthy. FOOTLOOSE is propelled by the rockin' rhythm of its Oscar-nominated Top 40 score, the soundtrack album having hit number one on the Billboard charts and including such classics as "Let's Hear It For The Boy," "Almost Paradise," "Holding Out For A Hero," "The Girl Gets Around," and the title track, "Footloose." WNBC-TV called FOOTLOOSE "Exhilarating! You'll have a hard time staying in your seat!" while WOR-AM Radio said that it "Makes you want to dance in the street!" and the Denver Post called it "A hands-down winner!"

Under the Direction of Civic Education Director Marty Grubbs, the production features performances by Deleware County High School Students who were recruited during a spring audition tour to all nine county high schools. The result is a cast comprised of 40 teenagers representing Muncie Central, Muncie Southside, Burris, Delta, Cowan, Daleville, Wes Del, Wapahani and Yorktown High Schools. Also in the cast are 12 adult performers including Civic veteran Barry McMullen as Reverend Shaw Moore, Rita Wessel, Julie Bailey and Mark Whetstone. Music Direction is by Jason Sloan and Choreography is by Corey Mills.
Discounted season tickets for the entire 2007-2008 line-up will be available at performances of FOOTLOOSE. Other shows on the schedule include FRANKENSTEIN, A CHRISTMAS STORY, RAGTIME, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, GODSPELL and OKLAHOMA.

For tickets and information call 765-288-PLAY.

Register for Fall Acting Classes at Muncie Civic

MUNCIE CIVIC THEATRE is currently accepting registration for classes being offered as part of the Fall Acting Academy and Young Actors Workshop which has been a vital program at Muncie Civic since the 1960s. Classes are available for ages 7 - Adult. Class sessions will begin September 22 and continue for 10 weeks culminating in final performances and demonstration classes the week of December 2-7. Registration for each class will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Class size is limited to 15 per class. Tuition for classes range from $75-$100 depending on the class. All classes are held at Muncie Civic Theatre, 216 E. Main Street in downtown Muncie. Registration is available by completing a registration form and returning it to the theatre along with required deposit. Registration forms are available in the lobby of the theatre or by calling 765-288-PLAY.

Classes being offered as part of the FALL ACTING ACADEMY include: Improvisation (ages 8-14 - Wednesdays 4:00-6:00 or Saturdays 12:00-2:00), Technical Theatre for Youth (Ages 12-17 - Saturdays 12:00-2:00), Technical Theatre for Adults (Ages 18 + Tuesdays 7:00-9:00), Light & Sound for Teens & Adults (Ages 14 + - Wednesdays 7:00-9:00), Fairy Tale Theatre: PUSS IN BOOTS (a performance-based class for ages 7-12 - Saturdays 9:00-12:00), Family Theatre Workshop: ANNIE JR. (an advanced level performance-based class for all ages - this class is offered by audition only - auditions are on September 15 at 1:00pm).

Instructors for the classes include Muncie Civic Education Director Marty Grubbs, Muncie Civic Executive Director Darrin Murrell, Sasha Jones, Ball State Theatre Education senior Tonya Kunkle, and Muncie Civic Technical Director Andrew Bevacqua. Assistant Teachers and Interns are students from the Ball State Theatre Department's Education Program.

For more information call 765-288-PLAY.