Jan/Feb Downtown Developments Newsletter 2010

FIRE & ICE face off at First Friday’s annual Ice Carving Festival Jan. 8!

I 2010 Downtown Event Schedule Downtown Canton’s stre etscape comes alive with fun fe stivals!

First Friday of every month

M a rk your calendar and plan to atte n d !

t may be cold outside, but things are really heating up for the premier First Friday of 2010! On Jan. 8, the annual ice carving festival is back with some fire flaring up this year for good measure!

Have a fiery good time at this cool party in downtown Canton from 6 to 10 p.m. Ice sculptures by downtown artists, including Vicki Boatwright, Patrick Buckohr, Craig Booth (a.k.a. Uncle Dreg), and student culinary artists from RG Drage Career Technical Center, will be on display throughout the Arts District.

Champion ice carver Aaron Costic will light up the night by creating an ice tower and setting it ablaze, combining these two seemingly opposing elements in a stunning visual display. A firstplace medalist in numerous World Ice Art Championships, Costic is a full-time ice sculptor with over 16 year’s experience, and he has earned the coveted status of master carver from the National Ice Carving Association. Join us and watch the master at work!

More than a few flaming surprises will take place outside during the evening, including fire twirling on a stage lit by luminaries and fire barrels to warm your hands and roast your marshmallows for s’mores! For those more inclined to linger indoors, the downtown galleries and artists’ studios will be open with cool art, and the bars and restaurants will be sultry with sizzling food, warm beverages and red-hot live music. For some impressive ice of a different kind, visit Gasser Jewelers and Jülz by Alan Rodriguez.

Ignite your visit to the Arts District and head downtown for wintry fun for all ages! For the most up-to-date First Friday info, visit CantonFirstFriday.com. First Friday, downtown Canton’s monthly arts and entertainment festival, is presented through a partnership between ArtsinStark, The County Arts Council, and the Downtown Canton Special Improvement District.

First Friday Tidbits

PARTNERSHIP REPORT BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT GUEST COLUMN LOOKING INSIDE SPECIAL FEATURES • First Friday Fi re & Ice • First Friday Tidbits • Downtown Canton Live Ente rtainment • Art s I n Stark Arts Awards • SID Board Elections • Public Art Installment WHATWHEREWHEN

First Friday on Feb. 5 is sure to make all of your Chocolate Dreams come true! Area chocolatiers will be selling their decadent creations, while downtown restaurants and bars will create special chocolate-inspired desserts and drinks. Come downtown for a slice of chocolate heaven!

The theme for the March 5 First Friday is Art Works, which is also the slogan for the 2010 ArtsinStark Fund for the Arts campaign. The revitalization of the Arts District has shown that art does indeed work in our city! Join us in March as we celebrate all aspects of the arts in beautiful downtown Canton.

Downtown Developments is published bi-monthly by Canton Development Partnership, a department of Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with Downtown Canton Special Improvement District

Kelly Blandford Bah

Laurie Fife Harbert

New decade, new developments in store downtown 2010 is set to be another stellar year in downtown Canton! Activities are planned throughout the year to expand the rising tide of excitement that surrounds downtown and the Arts District. The success of 2009 has resulted in so much interest and momentum that 2010 promises to be a banner year!

222 Market Ave. N. Canton, OH 44702 (330) 456-0468 fax (330) 452-7786 cdp@cantonchamber.org www.cantondevelopmentpartnership.com

Dennis P. Saunier President & CEO Michael P. Gill Director Kelly Blandford Bah Project Manager Laurie Fife Harbert Project Manager Annette Rosenberger Administrative Assistant Denise Burton Membership Director Jessica Bennett Editor David Zingery Marketing Director Sarah Bhatia Graphic Designer

The Canton Development Part n e rship is a coalition of area development organizations and city g ove rn m en t that share an interest in downtown C a n ton’s continual imp rovement, revitalization, image, and quality of life for its citizens.

Its mission is to support and coordinate the activities and programs of its partner organizations in order to encourage and sustain community and economic development in downtown Canton.

The partnering organizations include: Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Canton Special Improvement District, Downtown Canton Land Bank, Canton Tomorrow, Inc., and City of Canton.

Information regarding downtown events and news can be submitted for reprint at the discretion of the Partnership director and publication editor.

The Canton Development Partnership reserves the right to edit all copy. Deadlines are the 15th of the month, two months prior to publication (i.e., May 15 for the July/August issue).

Statements of fact and opinion within Downtown Developments are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply the opinion of the members of Canton Development Partnership or its partnering organizations.

Advertising rates and specifications are available by contacting the Chamber sales department at (330) 458-2067.

First Fridays will continue to top the list of fabulous events happening downtown. This popular monthly experience in the Canton Arts District has grown into an established tradition for the community to celebrate local art, food and entertainment. The 2010 First Friday themes have been set and the plethora of activities we have planned are sure to stimulate the senses and keep folks coming back for more each month.

First Friday brings it all together to celebrate the best we have to offer! It takes countless hours and a great deal of energy from members of our community and beyond to coordinate the festivities involving artists, community members, downtown businesses and local non-profits.

First Friday is a time to explore – discover new art the galleries have to offer each month, stop in the shops and studios, witness the amazing array of musical and performing arts talent we are so fortunate to have in our community and sample incredible cuisine from our local restaurants. Then, come back throughout the month and experience downtown again with your family and friends.

In addition to First Friday, we’re working on even more endeavors in the coming year to bring in energy and enthusiasm: new projects in the Arts District, continued visual and aesthetic imp rove m e n t s throughout downtown, lunch-time programs, and the ever-ripening Canton Farmers’ Market. We are

excited to get new faces involved and are looking forward to all of the potential 2010 has to offer.

Best wishes to everyone for good health and good fortune in the New Year. We hope you’ll make visiting downtown a regular part of your 2010 plans and we encourage you to join us for the distinctive events that can only take place in beautiful downtown Canton!

Mark your calendar for the first Friday of each month and visit the websites often to keep up to date on all that is going on in our dynamic downtown.

C a n to n D eve l o p m e n t Pa rt n e rs h i p . c o m CantonFirstFriday.com CantonArtsDistrict.com

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SarahCare© Adult Day Care Services 200-202 Sixth Street N.W. • Canton, Ohio 44702 Phone: (330) 244-2599 • www.SarahCare.com • Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mon-Fri. SarahCare© Adult Day Care Services, celebrating 25 ye a rs this Fe b ruary, was founded by Dr. Merle Griff, Ph.D., a gerontologist with twenty ye a rs experience who could not find the care she wanted for the families she worked with professionally or for her own aging mother as a loving daughter. Her desire to provide families with better care spurred her to create and develop SarahCare© Adult Day Centers.

The newest SarahCare location, located in downtown Canton, opened in October 2009, and offers out-ofhome virtual assisted living services as well as round-theclock in-home services, customizable for a variety of participants.

“Participants come to SarahCare for many reasons.

Some of our participants are looking to socialize with others and enjoy activities, while others have medical or cognitive health issues that dictate a need for more comprehensive assistance, but they still seek a sense of indep e n d e n c e ,” said Te rri Lepto, exe c u t i ve dire c tor of SarahCare’s new Canton location.

According to Lepto, participants are typically 60 and older, though the downtown Canton center has participants as young as 40 at their facility. Currently, there are a total of 60 enrolled participants, with an average of 40 participants per day onsite. SarahCare has a medical-based service model, and the facility has RNs on staff at each center as well as a comprehensive medical station, equipped to handle medical conditions and impairments including physical disabilities, participants afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other dementias or Parkinson’s disease, diabetics and special dieta ry needs, and participants who have suffered strokes, among other conditions.

Women’s Club. A contracted dietician and social workers oversee the diverse dietary needs of each participant, especially for special needs such as diabetic menus. The participants dine in a café-style dining room with large sunny windows that look out into downtown Canton.

SarahCare also provides transportation for participants – an estimated 70 percent of participants receive transportation to and from the adult day care services via SarahCare vans. SarahCare At Home services range from once-a-day help with cleaning, medication and personal hygiene, to around the clock care. Some participants live with spouses or family, and some live on their own and make their own decisions.

“The goal of Sara h C a re is to keep people as independent as possible for as long as possible, and in many cases, to keep families together at home,” said Lepto.

While SarahCare of Canton and their sister location, SarahCare of Belden Village, at 6199 Frank Road, are both corporate-owned facilities, SarahCare centers are available nationwide as franchise opportunities and there are currently locations around the country in 17 states. SarahCare of Canton is the newest facility model for the franchise, and potential franchisees tour the facility during corporate operations training.

The most rewarding part of working with SarahCare?

“We help our participants develop imp o rtant and meaningful connections. They become very close at the center. They care deeply about one another and worry about each other. There are strong friendships that blossom at SarahCare – and we have several groups that have grown organically out of shared interests and activities,” said Lepto.

“What do we do here? In short, we work miracles. I’ve only been at SarahCare since April, but I’ve heard many heartwarming stories about lethargic, non-verbal participants who have done a complete turnaround since they’ve begun attending,” explained Lepto. Lepto began working for SarahCare, driven partly by her experience caring for her mother, who suffered from dementia.

Such groups include the “Golden Oldies” and “Silver Threads,” a group that does more advanced crafts and has been known to hold craft fairs to sell their items.

There is also the men’s group named the “Cruisers,” who do small crafts and gather in the “Men’s Den” for separate movies and entertainment. They do cognitive puzzles called “Brain Fitness” in the mornings to stay sharp. According to Lepto, these relationships help participants channel their loneliness and grief into positive experiences.

“There is a retired teacher here that thinks this is his job.

We have participants who are able assist the staff with the daily programs and activities. We’re able to provide participants like these a sense of pride and of purpose,” said Lepto.

Incoming participants receive a thorough assessment and a customized plan is developed jointly by the participant with nurses, the activities staff and the family.

Reviews are conducted every three months to ensure comfort, review progress and address any concerns.

The activities staff develops programs with the different skill levels and participant interests in mind. Activities include arts and crafts, live entertainment performances like singing, performance troupes and magicians, as well as off-site activities like bowling, bingo, miniature golf and other outdoor activities, weather permitting.

They also receive visits from children’s day care groups and can take advantage of onsite hair and spa services.

There are several possible funding sources for those interested in adult day care services, including Veterans Administration, Medicaid (PASSPORT and Care Coordination), Long Term Care Insurance, Title XX and private pay. The cost to enroll in SarahCare varies based on services, but adult day care services nationwide are significantly more affordable than other types of care. For more information about enrollment, contact Terri Lepto at tlepto@sarahcare.com, or visit SarahCare.com.

SarahCare provides a light breakfast and snack, followed by a full lunch catered in from the Canton

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I nve sting in Our Dow n tow n Community

By Mark J. Samolczyk

In the short period of time since assuming my position at Stark Community Foundation, I have witnessed the vibrancy and vitality of the renewal efforts aimed at a downtown rich with history.

Our office in the Foundations Centre at 400 Market Avenue North provides views of the changing downtown landscape, overlooking historic buildings that are being restored to their former glory and downtown community events in the green space at Fourth Street and Market Avenue.

Stark Community Foundation has always called downtown Canton home. Over our 46-year history, the Foundation has maintained offices in the Red Feather Building, the Wells Professional Building, the United Bank Building, the Saxton House and the Unizan Bank Building.

The Foundation’s current home, The Foundations Centre, underwent a complete restoration in 2005. Originally home to the Yohe Hotel, it now houses the Sisters of Charity Foundation of Canton, the Stark Education Partnership and The Hoover Foundation. Stark Management Services, Hampton Capital Management and Picciano’s Martini Bar are also housed in the Foundations Centre.

I am pleased to note that Stark Community Foundation is actively collaborating with other organizations in downtown Canton to focus renewal efforts through the funding of a number of nonprofit agencies that bring arts, education, human services, housing and economic development to the area.

In the area of economic development, one of the signature programs funded by the Foundation is Community Building Partnership, an organization intent on the redevelopment of neighborhoods throughout Stark County. Working with the Special Improvement District of the Canton Regional Chamber, we will continue to focus dollars and energy in rebuilding not only our downtown core, but also the neighborhoods that surround us. The result will be continued improvements to our downtown environment.

On behalf of the entire staff of Stark Community Foundation, I look forward to our continued participation in the ongoing renewal and transformation of downtown Canton.

Mark Samolczyk is the president of the Stark Community Foundation.

Downtown Canton is your ticket to Whether you’re looking for a good time with some toe-tapping tenors, a laugh fest at an improv comedy show, or serious dramatic stage performances of the classics, downtown Canton’s lineup of live entertainment venues feature a grand variety of all types of music, performance theatre and other live entertainment options.

This issue’s center spread is your guide to live entertainment happening downtown in early 2010. There’s something for everyone everyday of the week!

ENTERTAINMENT VENUES Canton’s large entertainment venues can hold thousands of eager fans for large-scale performances, concerts and more!

Canton Memorial Civic Center 1101 Market Avenue N, Downtown Canton CantonCivicCenter.com • (330) 489-3090 The Canton Memorial Civic Center has been located in the heart of downtown Canton, Ohio, since 1951. The Civic Center is home to large live music performances from national artists, most recently to Bob Dylan in November, as well as hosting the indoor events of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival and the Canton Legends indoor arena football team.

Up next at the Civic Center: 11th Annual Canton Hot Rod & Custom Bike Show - Friday, Jan. 22 – Sunday, Jan. 24 Harlem Globetrotters - Fri., Jan. 29 at 7:30 p.m.

Live Entertainment

Hollywood Hit Movie Jan. 22 - 24 7:30 p.m.

Hollywood Hit Movie Jan. 29 - 31 7:30 p.m.

Malone University Piano Extravaganza Feb. 20 7:30 p.m.

Slim Goodbody Feb. 23 10 a.m.

CPTA 4th Annual Premier Night Auction Feb. 27 6 p.m.

Battle of the Bands Mar. 6 7 p.m.

Canton Ballet “The Wizard of Oz” Mar. 20 - 21 2 p.m.

Applause Dance Competition Apr. 10 - 11 7 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Three Stooges Film Festival Apr. 16 7:30 p.m.

Battle of the Magicians May 1 - 2 8 p.m.

Naturalization Ceremony May 7 10 a.m.

HOF Queen Pageant May 13 7:30 p.m.

Canton Idol - Finals May 15 7 p.m.

Colleen’s School of Dance May 20 7 p.m.

Theatre Dance Recital May 22 7 p.m.

Candy Apple Dance Recital Jun. 12 12 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Shirley’s School of Dance Jun. 17 - 19 7 p.m.

Diana Durkin School of Dance Jun. 27 3 p.m.

Canton Symphony Orchestra 1001 Market Avenue N, Downtown Canton CantonSymphony.org • (330) 452-2094 As the flagship performing arts organization of Stark County, the Canton Symphony Orchestra is one of the most highly respected small-budget symphony orchestras in the United States. CSO is lead by Gerhardt Zimmerman, now in his 28th year as music director.

Upcoming Performances: Variety and Virtuosity Saturday, Feb. 6 at 8 p.m.

Music by Golijov, Hua Yan-Yun, Bottesini , Shostakovich-Zimmermann, Rimsky-Korsakov Igniting Romance Sunday, Mar. 7 at 4 p.m.

Music by Rachmaninoff, Lieberson, Wagner, Tchaikovsky A Birthday Celebration in Ivory Saturday, Apr. 10 at 8 p.m.

Music by Barber, Chopin, Schumann Power and Passion Saturday, May 8 at 8 p.m.

Music by Adams, Mozart

Kathleen Howland Theater 324 Cleveland Avenue N, Downtown Canton SecondApril.org/Theater • 330-451-0924 The mission of the Kathleen Howland Theater is to provide a place where productions in the performing arts can be presented before a live audience in Downtown Canton.

The Canton Palace Theatre 605 Market Avenue N, Downtown Canton CantonPalaceTheatre.org • (330) 454-8172 (Box Office) • (330) 454-8171 (24-hour Event Info) Today, the historic Canton Palace Theatre is a vital multipurpose entertainment facility. Its marquee burns brightly sixty feet above Market Avenue, welcoming you to enter its grand foyer and become a part of Canton’s nostalgic past and its bright future.

The majestic Palace Theatre is the heartbeat of the Canton arts community and plays host to over 300 events per year that have an annual attendance of over 100,000.

Upcoming Schedule: Art Film Weekly Every Thurs.

7:30 p.m.

Hollywood Hit Movie Jan. 2-3 7:30 p.m.

First Friday Concert Series Jan. 8 6 p.m.

“Praying for Abbey” Jan. 10 2 p.m.

Hollywood Hit Movie Jan. 15-17 7:30 p.m.

Kids Movie Special Jan. 18 1 p.m.

ART VENUES There are a variety of performances held throughout the year in downtown Canton’s arts organizations and venues, from the Cultural Center for the Arts to Canton’s Arts District and more, there’s always fun in store downtown.

Canton Ballet 1001 Market Avenue N, Downtown Canton CantonBallet.com • (330) 455-7220 Canton Ballet is a non-profit organization committed to fostering an appreciation of the art of dance within the local community. They are dedicated to providing the highest artistic quality of instruction by operating a school for all age and skill levels, along with a pre-professional company with performance opportunities for the serious or career oriented student at the advanced level.

Upcoming Performances: The Wizard of Oz Reminisce with Dorothy, her beloved Toto and her yellow brick road friends as they outwit the Wicked Witch of the West en route to the Land of Oz. Saturday, March 20 at 2:00 pm Sunday, March 21 at 2:00 pm

Upcoming Schedule: “That Face” - Jan. 15, 16, 22 & 23 Scared Scriptless Improv Comedy - Jan. 9 Scared Scriptless Improv Comedy - Feb. 6 “The Lightbearer” - Feb. 19, 20 & 21 Scared Scriptless Improv Comedy - Mar. 6 Scared Scriptless Improv Comedy - Apr. 3 “Pieces Of Me” Melissa Franjesh In Concert Apr. 9 & 10 “Twelve Angry Men” - May 8, 14 & 15 Scared Scriptless Improv Comedy - June 5

Players Guild Theatre 1001 Market Avenue N, Downtown Canton PlayersGuildTheatre.com • (330) 453-7617 So, why live theatre? From Artistic Director Josh Erichsen’s perspective, it’s because theatre has the power to bring ideas to life on stage!

Upcoming Performances: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof William G. Fry| Jan. 29 – Feb. 7 Cat on a Hot Tin Roof offers a gritty dissection of the dysfunctional American family. No Frills, Just Drama. (continued on next page)

Winnie the Pooh William G. Fry| Feb. 26 – Mar. 7 A family classic for those young and young at heart, Winnie the Pooh is sure to please.

Fiddler on the Roof Main Stage| Mar. 26 – Apr. 11 Rich in historical and ethnic detail, Fiddler On The Roof has touched audiences around the world with its humor, warmth and honesty.

Annie Main Stage |May 21 - June 13 In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan’s evil machinations, befriends President FDR and finds a new family and home with billionaire Oliver Warbucks.

Disney’s The Jungle Book William G. Fry | July 30 – Aug. 1 The jungle is jumpin’ with jazz in this exciting Disney classic! Join Mowgli, Baloo, King Louie and the gang as they swing their way through madcap adventures and thwart the ferocious tiger, Shere Khan.

VOCI | Voices of Canton 1001 Market Avenue N, Downtown Canton VoicesofCanton.org • (330) 455-1000 Voices of Canton, Inc. is dedicated to engaging adults and youth in the performance of choral and vocal works in various genres in Canton, northeast Ohio and, whenever possible, other regions of the United States and abroad. By being the communities’ premier choral organization, we strive to improve the quality of life in these areas.

Upcoming Schedule: Visit the website for upcoming events

Desert Inn Restaurant & Lounge 204 - 12th St. NW, Dow n town Canto n DesertInn.biz • (330) 456-1766 Live piano music on the weekends and Sharena the Belly Dancer performs every Friday night.

Fedeli Restaurant 218 Court Avenue, Downtown Canton FedeliCantonOhio.com • (330) 489-9777 Fedeli, downtown Canton’s award winning restaurant is the ultimate destination for fine Italian-American food, wine, and live entertainment downstairs in LaCava Beer, Wine and Martini Bar.

Iris Restaurant 228 Fourth St NW, Downtown Canton IrisDowntown.com • (330) 313-1519 Iris Restaurant features American Food, American Wine and American Music, and regularly showcases some of the best local, regional, and national acts in their intimate setting. Come visit Iris to hear some of the best blues and rock while enjoying something delicious from the kitchen or bar.

Open Mic Night – Every Thursday Come see some of Canton’s best local talent each Thursday night at 9 p.m. Hosted by Big Pat.

Little Chicago Bistro 585 Market Avenue, Downtown Canton LittleChicago-Bistro.com • (330) 456-5999 Experience the “Neighborhood in the City” next to the Canton Palace Theatre. Unique lunch and dinner menus of small plates and entrees composed of comforting but contemporary bistro classics with live music on the pub side throughout the week from acts like Pressure Band, Zack Kouris, Tailormade Classics, Ed Ellis Magic, Broken Arrow, Danny Clark and 7t7 The Band.

RESTAURANTS

Pete’s Grill & Pizza

The following downtown Canton restaurants feature some of the best local music and entertainment through the week and on weekends.

401 Cherry Avenue, Downtown Canton PetesGrillandPizza.com • (330) 452-7383

Blue Olive Jazz Club

Live music indoors and out, on the patio stage, weather permitting!

601 Cleveland Avenue NW, Downtown Canton ChroniclesandBlueOlive.com • (330) 754-2322 Located in the historical district in downtown Canton, Blue Olive Jazz Club is the place you want to be seen! Offering world-class jazz, food, and service – you will not want to miss it.

Peter Shear’s Downtown 427 E. Tuscarawas Avenue, Downtown Canton PeterShears.com • (330) 588-8300 Live music and special events.

Picciano’s Martini Bar Live Jazz – Wed., Thurs., Fri. and Saturday Enjoy live, world-class jazz music every Wednesday and Thursday starting at 6:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays starting at 8:30. Reservations suggested for dinner. Performers include some of the finest in local jazz – past acts featured Kevin DiSimone, Steve Brown Trio, Sherena, Sam Farley, Groove Warehaus and Hilary James!

410 Market Avenue N, Downtown Canton (330) Live music every Friday evening plus special events!

*Be sure to check each venue’s website or contact the organization for the most up-to-date show information.

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Looking inside ...

Anderson Creative Studio

Ca n ton Arts District welcomes innovative ga l l e ry and st u d i o

W

e have just passed the oneyear mark on the construc-

tion and rev i talization of the space that Anderson Creative Studio now calls home at 331 Cleveland Ave. Owner Kevin Anderson has laid bare the bones of the building, replacing most of the sub-floor, gutting the ductwork and revamping the space into a gallery and working creative studio where he hopes to work alongside other artists and art educators. He’s putting the finishing touches on the gallery – but already the result is a feeling that you’re not merely stepping through a door into any old art gallery, rather you’re stepping through a portal into a big-city, burgeoning arts venue.

“It’s been awesome. It’s been hard. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” said Anderson.

A self-described “adrenaline junkie,” Anderson admits that some of his best work is born from having too many balls in the air. His plans are to complete renovations by mid to late January. One unfortunate casualty to the demanding wo rk required to complete the gallery is Anderson’s own design work. A renowned furniture designer, Anderson’s creativity has taken a back seat to his gallery endeavor over the past year. But there’s inspiration on the horizon.

“A month ago I got back into a creative groove.

I’ve been able to bring my work in through some newly installed double doors,” said Anderson. “It was a breath of fresh air to be able to stand behind my table saw and have the means to create. Up until a month ago, I was restricted to what I could fit through a 33” wide door opening.”

The gallery has displayed a series of small shows over the past year, mainly ex h i b i ted on Fi rst Fridays. Most recently it was host to the debut show

of Adam “Hanz” Gruber, a Kent State fiber and digital media student artist. Gruber uses sto p motion animation techniques and a series of projectors to show these digital clips alongside, and in some cases, over top of his sizable fiber art installations.

Next up for the gallery is Anderson’s first curated show, BLIND DATE: The Romance of Word and Image, involving 15 writers and 15 artists who will exchange something they’ve written or created.

Partners will then riff on the other’s work, creating a new piece of writing or art inspired by their partner. The project will metaphorically broaden the boundaries of the arts district to include writers, and will spark new collaborations not yet explored.

Anderson Creative will host the show from Jan. 8 through Feb. 3, before it moves on to tour Minneapolis, Minn. and Chicago, Ill. What does Anderson think of his yearlong journey that is now on the brink of fruition?

“The truth is that I’m winging it. I’m new to running a public venue and curating shows. What has helped is that my business plan for this space, the intent of the gallery, is to display large installments and complete shows.”

Anderson’s advice to artists who are interested in showing in the space is to send a brief bio, a description of the show concept, and to craft a great artist statement, which he maintains is the single most important asset any artist can possess.

“I like to read artist statements that are to the point – it should say who you are, where you come from, what inspires you right now and what your work is about.”

Anderson credits Canton as an important silent partner in his venture, one that readily embraces entrepreneurs and welcomes the arts and artists.

He is also indebted to the family, friends and his new arts district neighbors who have gotten dirty helping him prepare the gallery, and the Downtown Canton Land Bank and ArtsinStark that helped him with funding, as well as the City of Canton and Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce for embracing the arts in downtown Canton.

In addition to the rotating shows, he plans to have six to eight pieces of his incredible furniture on the adjoining studio side of the gallery, along with a workspace with the potential for classes in a variety of media.

“I’m completely overwhelmed by this space and its potential. My mind is wide open for ideas of what to host here, to show here, to teach here. I’m excited about bringing new, fresh work to Canton and I’m content in bringing art to the people of Canton.”

For more about Anderson Creative and upcoming exhibits, and for photos of the renovation in action, visit AndersonCreativeStudio.com.

ArtsinStark Arts Awards honor seven county leaders The annual Arts Award luncheon at The Cultural Center for the Arts on Nov. 18 honored seven area organizations and individuals. Three companies received Business of the Year awards: Fred Olivieri Construction Company, Sol Harris Day, and The Timken Company. Arts Volunteer of the Year went to Kumi Day. Citizen Artist of the Year went to Lois DiGiacomo. And two organizations received top awards for the best ArtsinStark grants projects: The Ananda Center in Massillon for Most Innova t i ve Project, and the Arts Academy at Summit for Best SmArts project.

“It’s been a great year for the arts in Stark County,” said ArtsinStark board chair Bob Timken, “and we wanted to thank some of the amazing organizations and individuals that have made it happen.”

This is the third year that ArtsinStark has hosted the Arts Awards and more than 100 people turned out.

Lois DiGiacomo took home the award for Citizen Artist of the Year. As the founder of the Rainbow Repertory Theatre in 1994 and the Canton Cabaret Theatre in 2007, DiGiacomo is no stranger to accolades. She was the YWCA Woman of the Year for the Arts in 1995, and has produced, directed, or written more than 30 plays dealing with social issues ranging from drug abuse to racism. Lois has hosted “State of the Arts” on Canton City Schools TV for more than 10 years and is a true believer in the arts.

Kumi Day was honored as A rts Volunteer of the Year. She became the “face” of the KIMONO AS ART exhibit, a show and overall media phenomenon that touched the lives of over 100,000 people who saw the exhibit or participated in one of the many activities, including the tea ceremonies, earlier this year. As one of the few Japanese-Americans in Stark County, Kumi spent endless hours teaching about the intricacies of the Japanese culture, even brining her mother from Japan to visit during the KIMONO explosion in Stark County.

In the category of Large Arts Business (employing over 500), The Timken Company received the award thanks to their one-two punch of financial support to both KIMONO AS ART and the $1.45 million Annual Arts Campaign, chaired by Tim Timken. Sal Miraglia, president of the Steel Group, accepted the award.

In the Mid-sized Arts Business (employing 50 – 499), the Fred Olivieri Construction Company, was given the award for their important work in the Cultural Center for the Arts’ massive renovations for KIMONO and the building of the Japanese tea house. Fred Olivieri, and son Dean Olivieri, accepted the award.

The award for the Small Arts Business (less than 49 employees) went to Sol Harris Day for their innovation in designing the new ArtsinStark administrative offices. Jeff Day, Partner, accepted the award.

The Arts Academy at Summit accepted the award for Best SmArts project, using their $500 grant award to connect 6th graders to Spain and its culture, which included the science of creating a working windmill. Principal Tom Piccari accepted the award.

The award for the Most Innovative Project in their use of an ArtsinStark grant went to The Ananda Center in Massillon. They created “Art Displaced,” one-night art shows in abandoned buildings – with five of the spaces now being rented. Artist Bili Kribbs and Ananda Center Executive Director Nicole Garlando accepted the award.

SID board elections The Downtown Canton Special Improvement District’s annual meeting was held Thursday, Nov. 19. At the meeting, the following individuals were elected to its board of directors for a two-year term: Timothy S. Belden, owner, Joseph T. Saxton Gallery of Photography David T. Beule, owner, Appalachian Basin CPAs Robert J. Hankins, president & CEO, ArtsinStark Michael E. King, owner, King Properties Rodney W. Meadows, owner, Motter & Meadows Michael E. Williams, executive director, Stark Metropolitan Housing Authority

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Michael P. Gill is the president of the board.

In addition, the organization recognized Timothy S. Belden, Joseph T. Saxton Gallery of Photography; Pete Pappacostas, Pete’s Grill & Pizza; Dina Tozzi, Picciano Martini Bar; and Jennifer Baus, Aaron Pechota and Will Dent, Wilson Pointe, for their commitment and investment in downtown Canton. A special award was also given to Larry E. Groves for his past 12 years of service to the Special Improvement District.

New public art installment SHATTERS convention downtown Shattered Expressions, a 40’ x 10’ threedimensional piece of public art designed by local artist Tommy Morgan, will reach completion and be hung this month in the Canton Arts District. The three-piece human emotional series will bring rage, sorrow and j oy to the corner of Fifth Street and Cleveland Avenue.

“I think the piece is self-explanatory. Human facial expressions and art share the same purpose – their purpose is to provoke and c o nvey emotion, nothing more, nothing less,” explained Morgan.

Created from sculpted, high-density foam and sealed with hard-coated cement, each piece is finished with colorful acrylic shards to truly encompass the raw emotion in each undulating expression. The smaller-scale prototypes for the exhibit will be on tour at various arts venues in Northeast Ohio in order to encourage interest in Canton's Arts District - and will ultimately be auctioned off.

Four cash investors, including Tim Belden, Bob Ti m ken, Canton Development Part n e rship and ArtsinSta rk, with in-kind labor, materials and installation from Coon Restoration & Sealants and Roricks, Inc, funded Shattered Expressions. The total cash and in-kind project budget was approximately $35,000.

Morgan’s past mural projects downtown include Homage (sans da Vinci), Mother of Invention, and the art deco design of the

Millennium Centre Parking Deck. Next up, Morgan is exploring more art from the same cement as Shattered Expressions, but with a functional twist – he hopes to create a football-inspired artistic climbing wall. For more about Morgan’s work, visit MorganFactory.com.

What began in 2005 as a way to transform old cement garbage containers into works of art has resulted in a concerted effort to invest in public art. Downtown Canton now has 35 pieces of public art, among which are numerous oversized murals and sculptures.

Together with the Canton Deve l o p m e n t Partnership, ArtsinStark evaluates public art proposals on a case-by-case basis and executes projects based on modest resources, largely funded from private sources. The organization’s goal is to get formal public arts ordinances passed by city and county governments in Canton, making way for a full time public arts administrator on staff and a formal public art process.

In the summer of 2009, ArtsinStark unveiled the idea for “The Amazing Football Collection” – more than a dozen provocative sculptures that would stop traffic in downtown Canton, and remind everyone that professional football in America began right here. Most important of all, “The Amazing Football Collection” would attract thousands of visitors and tourists to our center city.

Through Jan.

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Something from Nothing: Contemporary Recycled Sculpture from America’s Rustbelt 45: New Works by Terri Kern Curious World: Art from Fabric, Photographs and Found Objects

by Jane Reeves Mix of Style & Function from the CMA Ceramic Collection Canton Museum of Art www.cantonart.org

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JANUARY

First Wednesdays Wine Tasting Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography www.jsaxtongallery.com First Friday – Fire & Ice Canton Arts District www.cantonfirstfriday.com “Get Together” Second April Galerie www.secondapril.org Scared Scriptless Improv Comedy Kathleen Howland Theatre www.secondapril.org/theater Tea with the Curator: “Bridal Fashion” McKinley Presidential Library & Museum www.mckinleymuseum.org SymphonyLand! Strings Canton Symphony Orchestra www.cantonsymphony.org Folk Friday Second April Galerie www.secondapril.org That Face The Kathleen Howland Theatre www.secondapril.org/theater Kids Movie Special Palace Theatre www.cantonpalacetheatre.org Documentary Film Night Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography www.jsaxtongallery.com Art Splash ArtsinStark www.artsinstark.com Aultman Cameo Concert Canton Symphony Orchestra www.cantonsymphony.org Fibernation Fiber Arts Show Opening Reception Second April Galerie www.secondapril.org

Through Feb. 28

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Ohio Legacy Casual Friday Concert Canton Symphony Orchestra www.cantonsymphony.org Cat on a Hot Tin Roof Players Guild Theatre www.playersguildthaetre.com McKinley Day McKinley Presidential Library & Museum www.mckinleymuseum.org The Art of Chili Chili Cook Off Second April Galerie www.secondapril.org

FEBRUARY

Something from Nothing: Contemporary Recycled Sculpture from America’s Rustbelt; 45: New Works by Terri Kern; Curious World: Art from Fabric, Photographs and Found Objects by Jane Reeves; Mix of Style & Function from the CMA Ceramic Collection Canton Museum of Art www.cantonart.org First Wednesdays Wine Tasting Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography www.jsaxtongallery.com First Friday – Chocolate Dreams Canton Arts District www.cantonfirstfriday.com Cat on a Hot Tin Roof Players Guild Theatre www.playersguildthaetre.com Scared Scriptless Improv Comedy Kathleen Howland Theatre www.secondapril.org/theater MasterWorks Classical Concert III Canton Symphony Orchestra www.cantonsymphony.org SymphonyLand! Woodwinds Canton Symphony Orchestra www.cantonsymphony.org ‘Love is Eternal”: America’s First Couples National First Ladies Library www.firstladies.org “Get Together” Second April Galerie www.secondapril.org Final Day “Life in Miniature” Dollhouse Exhibit McKinley Presidential Library & Museum www.mckinleymuseum.org

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Documentary Film Night Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography www.jsaxtongallery.com Soup at Six: “Roaring Twenties Review” McKinley Presidential Library & Museum www.mckinleymuseum.org Folk Friday Second April Galerie www.secondapril.org Steve McCurry Artist’s reception & Book Signing Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography www.jsaxtongallery.com Steve McCurry Slide Show Canton Museum of Art www.cantonart.org The Lightbearer The Kathleen Howland Theatre www.secondapril.org/theater Malone University Piano Extravaganza Palace Theatre www.cantonpalacetheatre.org Aultman Cameo Concert Canton Symphony Orchestra www.cantonsymphony.org Opening: “A Stitch in Time” Quilt Exhibit McKinley Presidential Library & Museum www.mckinleymuseum.org Ohio Legacy Casual Friday Concert Canton Symphony Orchestra www.cantonsymphony.org Art A play by Yazmina Reza Kathleen Howland Theatre www.secondapril.org/theater

For more downtown event information log on to www.cantondevelopmentpartnership.com

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