Everyone in Snow Hill was talking with unbridled excitement as Friday, August 6th drew near. First Friday, they called it, an ongoing event of culture and carousing. When the awaited day arrived, Market Street became the ideal Victorian-style deviation from commercialism to class, as shopkeepers, visitors and residents alike cavort between wine-tastings, art galleries and music. This time, we got our fair share of remarkable artwork by Kenneth Browne and singing waiters at The Blue Dog Café.

Ann Coates welcomed us to into her fine art gallery, Bishop's Stock, to celebrate the release of her brand new line of wines being offered at the establishment. What could be more appropriate to match with perusing sculptures and paintings than a glass of wine? Ann has found an amazing way to support art and culture, both by providing the gallery space, and supporting the art effort through wine sales.

Presently, the gallery was filled with the work of Kenneth Browne, allowing viewers to see the latest of his burlesque series. Jinchul Kim, a former professor of Kenny, was beaming with pride. "His work is really strong!" said Kim. Kenny worked in New York six or so years, and his burlesque series is the result of a deep fascination with the people there and their culture. Wanting to produce work that was simple and unadulterated, Kenny chose portraiture. Look to see more of Kenny coming at the Fort Wayne Museum of Arts.

As the sun went to bed for the night, the good times were only just beginning at the Blue Dog – the restaurant that didn't hire mere waiters, but performers! Gary Weber, owner, knows how to infuse the proper dose of class and sophistication into his establishment to make for an unforgettable place. Romantic atmosphere, a dinner-theatre stage, even tapestry pillows strewn around the booths, and of course there was the live music:

Mayor Stephen Matthews (below)had nothing but good words for this evening's turnout. "First Friday is a fabulous concept for bringing in to see the town," he said. "It establishes a venue for tourists and locals." By the end of the night, everyone ends up feeling right at home in Snow Hill.

Written by Erik Yount. Photography & Video by Errol Webber.