First Saturday art exhibits start this weekend
The Palatine/Inverness Arts Council will begin its new season of First Saturday art exhibits with a Cajun flair this weekend.
The council will host a public reception to meet local artists from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Gumbo A Go-Go, 43 N. Bothwell St. in downtown Palatine. The event is free and light refreshments will be provided by Gumbo A Go-Go, a new restaurant featuring authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine.
November's exhibit will feature paintings by artist Jan Pennor-Drake. In addition, photos from Palatine's sister city, Fontenay, France, will be on display.
"We are excited to partner with Sister Cities of Palatine to feature the beauty of Fontenay," said Barb Black, arts council president
The First Saturday receptions provide an opportunity for the community to meet and greet local artists and view their works. After the reception, the works will be on display in the restaurant for the entire month.
"This program is designed to draw attention to the many talented local artists we have in the community," said Bill Pohlman, program co-chairman. "Last year's series of receptions were well-received and we hope to grow the program this year."
The receptions will be held the first Saturday of each month through April, and each month the exhibit and location will change.
Artists and businesses interested in displaying their work or hosting a reception are encouraged to call (847) 943-6451 or visit www.palatineinvernessarts.org for more information.
Model citizens: Congratulations to the three winners of the Palatine Area Chamber of Commerce's "model" citizen contest -- Andrea Smith, a Fremd high school student; Cynthia Johnson, mother of two; and Tom Seick, downtown business salesman.
Each of the winners will take to the runway at the annual Community Holiday Fashion Event from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the Cotillion Banquet Hall, 360 S. Creekside Drive.
The holiday fashion show and dinner is open to the public. Tickets are $70 each. For more information, contact the Palatine Area Chamber of Commerce at (847) 329-7200 or e-mail info@palatinechamber.com.