ARTreach

When we launched ARTreach back in May, I was excited.  Wow, a program to put instruments that are just sitting around collecting dust to use.  On top of that, we had a grant from NCHS so we could purchase a new instrument for each one we received.  The community embraced this outreach program with arms more open that we had anticipated.  It is great to live in such a generous community.
When we approached the band and orchestra directors, they were both excited and skeptical.  Their concerns were legitimate and were addressed the best we could.  Once school started, they embraced the program, bringing me names of students in need of an instrument.  Finally, we were going to get instruments repaired and purchased.  We were seeing the next step of the program come about.
While all of this was wonderful, it couldn't prepare you for giving the instrument to a student.  Too see the faces and excitement on a 6th or 7th grader makes the program more that you could imagine.  They come in excited, they are about to get an instrument.  Then you show them the instrument, the excitement grows.  It is more than they could have ever expected, and it is about to be theirs.  As they walk out of the building with the instrument in hand, they have a glow of excitement that is about to explode.  They are ready to go home and practice.
On top of all of this, you have the parents.  They don't want to tell their child they cannot play an instrument because they can't afford one.  So, there is a sigh of relief come over them when you tell them the instrument is ready.  They are so happy and grateful for the generosity of the community and NCHS to have a program like ARTreach. 
ARTreach is one of the most rewarding programs I have ever been a part of.  The expression on the student's face will melt any heart and make even the worst day turn around.

Busy weekend with more to come

Friday night was the last Gallery Walk of 2010.  We had lots of fun with the One Great Read hanging out with us and the Bum Ditty Barn Dance Band keeping us hopping with their great music.  The artwork is, as always, absolutely wonderful.  (If you missed it, you have until October 22 to check it out.) 
Sunday was Art on the Wabash.  How exciting to see our favorites and many new faces.  It is even more exciting when a new artist to the fair wins the People's Choice Award.  Donna Leuck won with her kitchen robots.  They are really cool.
On top of it all was the Apple Popcorn Festival.  Things are really hopping and only getting more exciting over the next month.  Starry Night Arts and Music Festival is October 1 with the Feast of the Hunters Moon that Saturday and Sunday.  Bravo Brunch is three weeks away, October 13.  (RSVP by Sept 27.)  Of course Third Friday, October 15.  The final Gallery Reception of 2010 at TAF, October 29.  There are lots of wonderful Arts, Music, and Cultural events happening in the next month, that I know I do not have them all.
To keep on top of the many events happening, check out www.tippecanoearts.org.

Final Gallery Walk of 2010

You know fall is just around the corner... our mornings are cooler, days are starting to shorten, and the last Gallery Walk is here.  Friday the 17th is the final Gallery Walk of 2010.  There are 24 businesses participating, with many new ones, along with our favorites.  Grab your favorite walking companion and take a stroll through downtown Lafayette.  While your at it, let us know what your favorite part of the Walks are?