That is except for the times she's breaking out in full-fledged laughter.
Johnson's giddiness started Thursday when she learned that the American Museum of Ceramic Art had been chosen to receive a $50,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
"We needed this badly," said Johnson, AMOCA director. "Our membership has remained the same, and we're grateful for that, and the donations have been coming, but the donation amounts have been smaller."
Nonprofit arts organizations are receiving grants to support the preservation of jobs that are threatened by declines in philanthropic and other support during the current economic downturn, according to the NEA Web site.
Johnson applied for the grant after Congress removed museums from the list of stimulus exclusions such as casinos, sports arenas and amusement parks. The grant is part of the $50 million federal economic stimulus recovery package.
In California, 99 nonprofit arts organizations are cumulatively receiving $4.45 million in funding, and $50,000 is the maximum a single organization can receive.
"We're young and stand-alone, being the only museum on the West Coast dedicated exclusively to ceramic art," Johnson said.
AMOCA will celebrate its fifth anniversary Sept. 11. Since its inception, the museum has received grants from the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, the James Irvine Foundation,
If you own or operate a business, professional office, or are a merchant of any kind in downtown Pomona, you are eligible to be posted on the Metro Pomona Business Directory, free of charge.
Your business must be within the following boundaries; First Street to Mission Blvd. and Parcels to Allen Lane.
You may already be listed, please check at http://www.metropomona.com/. If you are not listed or if the information is dated or not accurate email us with the correct information at downtownpomona@hotmail.com and we'll fix it right away.
You are also invited to set up at either of the downtown Pomona Farmers Markets free of charge. If you are interested check out :
Guest DAVID FURMAN Slides and Dialogue: 40 Years of Work
Saturday, June 27, 5 - 7p.m.
For more than 40 years, artist David Furman has created diverse works in clay that express his ideas, experiences, and perceptions through irony, empathy, and humor. His repertoire is vast, ranging from miniature room vignettes and small dioramas to tromp l' oeil works. Furman's recent work is focused on composite-vegetable teapots and wooden-mannequin based scenarios that portray human emotion. Open to the public, $5 admission; free for members
Recognized as one of the most important and influential ceramic artists of this century, Don Reitz is well known for reviving salt and wood-firing techniques. His life-long commitment to research, testing, and experimentation have been crucial to the development of his cutting-edge work. Reitz's distinctive use of color, surface, and gestural markings make him one of the most recognized artists in American studio ceramics.
Fee: $65 for AMOCA members, $85 for non-members and includes continental breakfast. To purchase a reservation, please call: 909-865-3146 with a major credit card, (VISA, MASTERCARD or DISCOVER) or send a check to: AMOCA, 340 South Garey Avenue, Pomona, CA 91766
Calling all Artists who would like to help the dA celebrate 25 years of community art happenings in Pomona. Saturday, June 27th will be the official birthday celebration for the 25th anniversary of the dA. The highlight of the event will be a reprise of dAzert, a favorite fund raising event.
Please stop by the dA starting today to paint a birthday cake plate which will be sold at dAzert for $20. Dee Cole has donated paints to the dA that adhere to porcelain plates, and David Armstrong has donated 200 plain collector plates.
So far the artists have had a lot of fun painting them.
When to stop by: Wednesday noon to 5pm, Thursday noon to 9pm, Friday and Saturday noon to 5pm
Where: The dA ceramics lab, upstairs at the dA Gallery, 252 S. Main St., 909-397-9716
We also need birthday cakes. If you enjoy baking, please create a special cake for our birthday party.
I just wanted to share with you that this month's Second Saturday had a fabulous turnout, especially for West side of the Arts Colony. In the three years that I've been here, this has been one of the biggest and best turnouts - definitely the reason DPOA needs to continue it's fine work and keep doing what it does - so that we can continue to have these kinds of turnouts throughout the entire Arts Colony and the positive response from visitors to our Downtown.
Lisa Cabrera Cabrera's: An Eclectic Art Gallery 637 W. Second St. Pomona, CA 91766
The Glass House has a new entrance, all glass (what else?).General Manager James Barnum promised recently that the Glass House would get a facelift. He wasn't wrong. First the upper facade, now the entrance, and next the windows. It's looking good!
Hurray! Aladdin Jr opened today for lunch. They had a steady crowd all day with their all you can eat buffet, which was delicious!!! They will be open for lunch from now on and said they will be open for dinner tomorrow. So head on over and check it out!!
Welcome to the downtown Aladdin Jr! We are so happy you are here!
• Locally owned businesses spend their profits locally, purchase more goods from local suppliers, and employ their own office and support staff.
Get More for your Money
• When more money gets re-circulated in the community, general prosperity as well as tax revenues increase, creating a more vibrant and sustainable economy.
Local Businesses Offer Unique Character
• A wide variety of locally owned businesses contributes to a stronger local identity and cultural diversity, creating an attractive place to live and visit.
Neighborly
• Strengthening our locally owned business community promotes authentic and meaningful relationships between employees, business owners, customers, suppliers and neighbors. • Business owners, who live in town, take better care of the environment, participate in public life and local charities.
Sundarii Hair Studio, located at 250 S. Garey Ave., Pomona (Next to El Merendero restaurant) recently opened a flower shop within the salon. Now, with just one stop, you can purchase fresh flowers and have your hair coiffed.Nestled in Beautiful Downtown Pomona's Antique Row. Experience a sanctuary of beauty and comfort at Sundarii Hair Studio. Their mission is simple ... to provide their guests with the highest quality service possible, provided by their professional and talented staff. They take pride in providing extreme make-overs. Specializing in Women's and Men's haircuts. Color and highlights, extensions, Special ocassion services ( Updo's & Makeup) and threading.
250 S. Garey Ave Pomona, CA,91766 909-622-5840 Phone www.myspace.com/sundarii studio4beauty@verizon.net
Last Wednesday evening the DPOA hosted a mixer for Joey's BBQ Art Gallery and Selkouth Art Gallery, two new additions to Pomona's Art Colony. Several people came to show support for these new ventures, in spite of the cold and wet weather. City Council members Rodriguez, Atchley, and Saunders were on hand to assist Mayor Rothman with the ribbon cutting ceremony. Several City Commisioners, as well as city management and staff also came. It was a great turnout. The DPOA thanks everyone who came to show their support. The downtown is very proud to have these two new additions.
The long awaited Aladdin Jr. is hosting an opening reception and sneak-peek this Saturday during the Art Walk on Valentines Day February 14th. Come sample traditional Mediterranean food in a comfortable dining environment! Aladdin Jr. will feature a lunch buffet, hookah bar, belly dancers, and a large selection of beers and wines. You can find them at 296 W 2nd St. on the corner of 2nd and Main St. Stop by during the Art Walk and see what they are all about!
You are invited to a DPOA mixer 5-7 PM, Wednesday February 11, welcoming two new art galleries to downtown Pomona; Joey's BBQ Gallery and Selkouth Gallery, located at 117 and 119 W. 2nd St., Pomona. Hope to see you there!
Last night's mixer at the Acerogami Bar, or as the locals call it, "Glass House Bar", was a huge success. Sponsored by the Pomona Chamber of Commerce and Valley Vista Services the downtown was alive with the who's who of Pomona. Guests included, among the many dignitaries; Assemblywoman Norma Torres, Mayor Elliott Rothman, Councilmembers Atchley, Lantz, Soto, and Saunders. Chamber president Ricardo Delgado, Executive Director Frank Garcia,Board members Andre Robinson and Adrianna Robledo, DPOA President Carolyn Hemming, Board members Cathy Tessier, David Armstrong, Don Church, Jason Abboud, just to name a few.
Sakura Ichi provided the catering with plenty of food to go around. The ambiance is subtle elegance with steel scultures, handmade tables, stools and bar, made of steel. A full wall is dedicated to a masterful mural by artist Tom Pathe.
The night's event was well attended by an estimated 200 people. A great turnout!
The host and proprieter, Perry Tollett, unfortunately was ill and couldn't attend his own party. The buzz was so positive that Perry will be seeing many of these people back for a long time to come.
The winner of the first annual chili cook-off at the dba256 wine bar and gallery is,....(drum roll here), Dano! Along with a trophy comes bragging rights for the next year! Congratulations Dano!
This year's cook-off judges were David Allen and Larry Egan. The judges tasted and re-tasted the entries.., all entries were worthy of an award ! The tasting was blind, the judges had no idea who's chili they were tasting. A big thank you to David for taking time out of his day to participate.
There were two other winners as well; Second place went to Colin, coincidentally co-owner of the dba256, and the People's Choice award went to Tibbi, Pomona's beer guru. Apparently the gang at dba256 really know their chili. There were several entries, all of them winners!
Calling all downtown Pomona business owners, bartenders, locals, firefighters and police (you know who you are).
The dba256 is hosting their 1st annual chili cook-off, Saturday, January 17, 2009. For those of you who brag that you make the best chili ever, here's your chance to prove it!
Bring your award winning chili to the dba256, 256 S. Main St. at 11:00 AM, Saturday January 17, 2009. Please bring it ready to go, preferably in a crock pot.
Judging will begin at 12 noon.It is rumored that David Allen from the Daily Bulletin, and Larry Egan from the DPOA will be the judges. David, of course, is a epicurean expert, and Larry just knows what he likes.
A trophy will be awarded to the winner, certificates to runners-up.There will be drink specials, and of course some very fine chili to eat.
So, if you think your recipe has what it takes to win the coveted "Best of Pomona" chili award, join in the fun!
There is no charge for entries, so what have you got to loose.For more information contact the dba256 at (909) 623-7600 and speak with Ron, Johnnie, Dano, or Tibbi.
Two of the Art Colony's own, Amy Bystedt and Sally Egan, extend an invitation for all to view their photo exibit entitled "Let Them Eat Steak" at the new 5iftybucks Gallery, located at 213 Holt Ave.(in the American Legion parking lot), Pomona. Opening reception is Saturday, January 17, 2009, 5PM -10PM.
High above the street, atop the AMOCA building on Garey Ave. is a beautiful lighted sunburst, red, white and blue! Very Pretty. David Armstong, founder of AMOCA says there is a twin to this display which he will install atop the Armstrong Building.
Tray Chic Serving up FUN & FUNDS Event date: Saturday, November 22, 2008 Time: 6pm to 10pm Location: The dA Center for the Arts, 252 S Main St., Pomona Arts Colony, CA 91766 The dA Center for the Arts is known for creative fundraising. There were the metal chairs, the bowling balls, the skulls, and now artists have taken cafeteria trays and transformed them for the "Tray Chic" silent auction fundraiser. The event will take place this Saturday during the closing reception for the dA's current show, a remarkable art exhibit titled Popztlan. The dA has gained its reputation as a place where established contemporary artists such as Karl Benjamin and André Miripolsky, show alongside talented local and emerging artists. The Popztlan exhibit, featuring two paintings by Karl Benjamin, and a bridge that was once installed over the L.A. river, is truly a sensory adventure. A preview of early Tray Chic submissions, indicates a range of concepts that are “off the hook” so to speak. Notable artists such as Michael Woodcock, Dan Van Klapp, Fr. Bill Moore, and Dee Marcellus Cole are contributing trays, our beloved First Street Gallery volunteers are in the mix, and a few new artists will be making their en-tray into the downtown art scene. The dA has a strong artist base and the support for this event has been enthusiastic. Trays will be sold in an silent auction format, with proceeds going to support The dA’s mission. Bidding starts at 6pm, and closes at 8:45pm. Winning bidders can purchase and take their trays on the spot. Trays not sold during the silent auction will be available for purchase during the month of December. For extra fun while deciding which tray to bid on, there will be a wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, the dA Martini Club will be recruiting new members, and a jazz trio to embellish the evening. For more information Contact Terry Castillo, 909-397-9716 # # #
Well it finally happened. After a long and much anticipated wait the Glass House Bar opened last night and boy did the word get around. The service was great and so were the drinks. Many of the locals came out in support along with a steady crowd of new faces. Another great addition to the Metro.
We would like to invite you to join us for the first anniversary of Ink'd Chronicles on Saturday, November 8th from noon until midnight. We have organized Tattoos for the Cure – a day (and night) of music, art and charity. There is no charge to attend however donations will gladly be accepted.
Our artists will be tattooing pink breast cancer awareness ribbons and other designs as requested. There is an $80 minimum and all of the proceeds going to the Breast Health Program at the Robert and Beverly Lewis Family Cancer Care Center . There will also be a tattoo-inspired art show with proceeds going to the cancer center.
In addition, there will be live musical performances beginning at 7:00 PM on the street stage in front of Ink'd Chronicles.
I Do Bridal is new to the neighborhood and we wish them a warm welcome and great success. They've created a lovely niche for themselves by providing the bride or grooom to be with a one-stop shopping experience. Everything you need for that perfect wedding! Not just weddings, any formal event.
Planning for a wedding, prom, a formal event? I Do Bridal has bridal gowns, tuxedos, prom, sweet sixteen or quincenera attire. Packages are available that include photos, flowers, cake, beauty salon, etc. Everything for your party needs and more. Also, photograher available at store location: 626-712-8264. . Hours: Mon. by appt. only. Tue & Thur. 11-7, Wed. 11-6, Fri. 11-8, Sat. 11-5, Closed Sundays. Open till 10pm on 2nd Sat. of month.
Happy Birthday to dba256 Gallery Wine Bar! Yesterday marked the 1st anniversary of the dba256 Wine Bar located at 256 S. Main St., right in the heart of Downtown Pomona.
And what a year it has been! From the get-go this establishment has been the hub of activity downtown. It's the place to go to meet and greet, view wonderful art pieces, raise a glass of your favorite wine or brew. It's been a favorite watering hole for locals and visitors alike. Many is the time people come to Downtown Pomona for one event or another, discovered the dba and returned time and again to enjoy the comraderie of the place. Last week a young couple announced their engagement there, and we've all seen local politicians and City staff there from time to time. It's the place to be!
Every Wednesday evening they feature a wine tasting which brings in the novice taster as well as the connoiseur. The place has taken on the role of our very own "Cheers", where everybody knows your name. After just one visit, you will be greeted by your name and make a connection to others. If you want to know what's "really" happening in town, check out the dba. The proprietor, Ron Faris, is a big supporter of all that is Pomona.
SUITE 101 Presents: An Evening of Music benefiting the JAYCEES Featuring performances by: Adjoa Skinner & Trevor Davis
This Friday, Oct. 3rd, SUITE 101 will be hosting a Special Evening ofMusic, benefiting the Pomona Jaycees, an organization of youngprofessionals ages 18-41 that participate in community service, businessnetworking, and leadership development.This event will feature performances by Trevor Davis, and now SUITE101 resident, Adjoa Skinner.There will be networking, socializing, dancing, and many give-aways at this event. We hope to see you all there.To reserve a table for this event at no charge, simply visit our events page at http://www.3x5music.com/ and fill inthe necessary information for you and your party
Hosted By:Suite 101 When:Friday Oct 03, 2008at 7:30 PM Where: Sakura Ichi Bar 101 W. Mission Blvd, Ste. 101 Pomona, CA 91766
A Night at the Movies Saturday, October 11th, 4-6pm
On Saturday, October 11th, the American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA) will present The Village Potters of Onda. This fascinating 27 minute documentary film, created in the 1960’s, by artist Robert Sperry explores the production of the historic pottery making village of Onda, Japan before it was forever changed by machine production. This documentary, which has been re-released by AMOCA, was formerly only available film and is now available on DVD at the museum for $29.95. This event is free with admission and is in conjunction with our exhibition, Robert Sperry, Bright Abyss through November 8th. Refreshments will be served.
A full color 271 page book titled Robert Sperry, Bright Abyss covering the lifetime achievements of Sperry, published by AMOCA with text by Matthew Kangas will accompany this exhibition. Hard cover $69.50, soft cover $49.50.
Special Events: A Night at the Movies, featuring the Village Potters of Onda A 27 minute documentary film by Robert Sperry Saturday, October 11th, 4-6pm Refreshments will be served FREE with admission
Art & Pottery Market Southern California Artists sell their handmade ceramics in our outdoor patio Friday, November 7th, noon-5:00pm Saturday, November 8th, noon-8:30pm FREE
Books, DVD’s and original ceramic artwork will be available for sale in our museum store.
American Museum of Ceramic Art 340 S. Garey Ave, Pomona, CA 91766 Open: Wed.-Sat., 12-5 pm & 2nd Saturday of the month, 12-9 pm, or by appointment. Admission: Adults $3; Seniors & Students $2, Members & Children 12 yrs. or under are free. Phone (909)865-3146 / Fax (909) 629-1067 E-mail: frontdesk@ceramicmuseum.org Web site: http://www.ceramicmuseum.org
At last night's Pomona Planning Commission meeting the commission voted unanimously to approve the Conditional Use Permit for a Tequilla bar to be located at 184 W. Third St (The Prog building and former home of Postal Annex).
A power point presentation was made to the commission by Assistant Planner Heidi Fanous and several people spoke in favor of the project. There were no dissenters.
The proprietors of the bar will be Ed & Alejandra Tessier. After listening to the power point presentation and Ed Tessier's comments this observer is very impressed with the research and committment displayed by the Tessiers. The bar will feature over 200 premium tequilla brands and boasts a dessert menu like nothing ever seen in these parts. Some tequillas will retail for as much as $600 a bottle, but have no fear, there will be cactus squeeze to fit any budget.
Speakers included Dwayne Kaiser, George Cuttress, Terry Dipple, Arturo Jimenez, and Mervyn Seldon. Summarizing the comments; "Bring it on! A wonderful project which is a class act!".
Our very own Sakura Ichi restaurant will be featuring live entertainment every Friday night through October. Check out the schedule at www.3x5music.com. It's just one more component that is making Downtown Pomona a destination place for dinning and entertainment. Sakura Ichi is located a 101 W. Mission Blvd., Pomona. In the Mission Promenade.
You are cordially invited to the VIP grand opening of Locust Lounge Restaurant & Nightclub (located in the middle of Antique Row in Downtown Pomona - just east of Garey Avenue next to the Locust Plaza).
6:30pm on Friday, August 22, 2008. 205 E. 2nd Street, Pomona, California, 91766.
The Locust Lounge is a beautifully designed new restaurant/nightclub with a full bar, dance floor, DJ/live music, bottle service, two patios, and mezzanine lounge, accompanied by exquisite California Cuisine served till close.
Please RSVP by Wednesday, August 20, 2008 by calling (818) 427-6737 or (909) 629-7777 or via email rolandsm@dslextreme.com
Even though the Artesia House is not located in the Downtown, we recommend it highly for its historic significance and sheer ambience. It's a wonderful "Piece of Pomona". Check out the link at artesiahousebnb.com
At long last! The Pomona Baking Company, located at 200 E. Old 1st St., in the heart of Antique Row, is now open for business! Rustic and European Style Breads and Pastries. Great stuff! Try it Today!!!
You've got to see this! An honest to goodness tatoo fashion show on Second St., in front of the Glass House Record Store, Ink'd Chronicles, and Bunny Gunner. There will be a runway for the models, music and skin!
The Locust Lounge is a beautifully designed nightclub and restaurant with a full bar, full kitchen, nice mezzanine lounge, dance floor, two patios, and much more. The Locust Lounge is Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties’ newest and hottest venue with great ambiance, trendsetting music, and exquisite food.
Hours of Operation:Tuesdays5pm - 1amWednesday – Saturday5pm – 2amNightclub hours:Thursday –Saturday9pm – 2am Location:205 E. 2nd StreetPomona, CA 91766
Your favorite neighborhood 2nd Street Bistro is back online! For those days when you only get 30 min for lunch you can now browse the menu online and decide what you want before you get there or call it in andget it to go. Rest assure the menu has not changed so your favorite French and Italian cuisines are all still available. Great prices and service is the icing on the cake when combined with the great food. They also have an excellent wine and beer selection as well. It is my favorite place to go for Art Walk nights! If you have not yet experience this place, get down there today!!! www.pomonabistro.com
Come see the hottest line up of cabaret dancers and music in Southern California. Grand Opening Weekend is September 6th and 7th. Located at 244 S. Garey Ave in the middle of Metro Pomona. Visit their myspace page for more information and photos.
