Music, art bring people to downtown First Friday event

IRONWOOD - Downtown Ironwood and Depot Park were hopping Friday with events connected to the city's continuing First Friday promotion.

On a perfect day weather-wise, following the farmers market offerings at the park, the focus shifted to the main street area where people were shopping and taking advantage of some events designed for the kiddies.

"We're the Schnellers," of Ironwood Township, Elle Schneller proclaimed as she worked on coloring fans with her brother, Mason, and mom, Brittany.

There were about a dozen youngsters painting paper plates for fans at the Downtown Arts Place under the watchful eye of Polly Barbacovi. With temperatures around 80 degrees under the sun, the fans were a good choice for an art project.

Across the street at 906 Creamery, a line of about 20 people, mostly youngsters, was waiting at the outdoor vendor to eat ice cream treats.

At the Art Park, David Paul Martin (Niemi), of Neenah, Wis., was back for another performance, after also entertaining the Ironwood First Friday crowd a year ago in July. His shows feature him singing original compositions and playing guitar for two hours.

A state arts grant has been received to provide the music at the First Fridays through September.

Kids had a chance to use chalk to decorate the wall with their art at the park.

Later on in the evening, Tim Mesun played the Barton organ at the Historic Ironwood Theatre.

-Ralph Ansami