JODI LIEF WOLK
To round out the year, JP Centre/South Main Streets (CSMS) is organizing a number of exciting events that people will want to add to their social calendars.
4th Annual JP Artists’ Ball—Unmasking the Tradition
First up is the JP Artists’ Ball on Sat., Oct. 21 from 8 p.m. to midnight at Eliot Hall, home of The Footlight Club. This year the popular masked ball is going “All Live and All Local” so whether this is your first or fourth year attending, plan to experience something a little different.
The Artists’ Ball is an opportunity to enjoy the creativity, diversity and community spirit of Jamaica Plain, as well as to celebrate the accomplishments of the hard-working volunteers of JP CSMS and raise funds for them to continue to have a positive impact on the community.
One of the main attractions this year will be live music by the renowned JP-based band, Dave Hannon and the Solid Sinners. The members of this soulful blues foursome have played with some of the greats, including John Lee Hooker, Junior Wells and Buddy Guy, and they are guaranteed to have the crowd on their feet all night long.
This year the Artists’ Ball will also include a live auction in addition to the successful silent auction—both featuring unique items, including the works of 15 local artists, a catered Super Bowl Party for 10 in your home, prime Boston Red Sox and Boston Celtics tickets, and a “Best of JP” package that’s hard to resist. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Fiore’s Italian
Bakery, Fire Opal, Rhythm & Muse, James’s Gate or at www.jpcentresouth.org for $30 or at the door for $35.
JP Cooks for a Cause—Do a Good Deed and Dine Out
Many neighborhood businesses have been forced to close or temporarily relocate due to the recent fires here in Jamaica Plain. The community is saddened by the consequences of these fires which have directly affected the business owners and their employees as well as loyal customers and the community at large. At least 65 people worked in these businesses.
Fortunately, JP is a committed and caring community that very much wants to help these merchants while they rebuild their lives and businesses. JP CSMS has brought together some neighborhood groups to organize a fund-raiser called “JP Cooks for a Cause.”
On Nov. 1, many of JP’s great restaurants will participate in JP Cooks for a Cause by donating a portion of the evening’s sales to a fire fund that will directly support the affected businesses. People are asked to invite their friends and dine out on Nov. 1 to show community spirit and try a new eatery in JP’s vibrant restaurant scene. For a list of participating restaurants go to www.jpcentresouth.org.
First Thursdays—The Holiday Edition
The final First Thursdays for 2006 will take place on Dec. 1. This holiday edition is a great chance to stop by JP’s unique shops and restaurants to pick up holiday gifts for friends and family. Over 25 merchants will once again host art openings for local artists and provide refreshments for your enjoyment.
For more information about any of the events mentioned above e-mail [email protected] or call 522-0300.
The writer is program manager of JP Centre/South Main Streets.