Art & Wine Walk is Sept. 19 The North Valley Arts Council and the Greater Grand Forks Convention and Visitors Bureau are pleased to present the Art & Wine Walk on Saturday, Sept. 19 from 1 to 5 p.m. in downtown Grand Forks and East Grand Forks. The Walk takes place on the third Saturday of the month, May through October. Stroll through downtown and view artwork by local artists at galleries, restaurants, and other business that serve wine or other non-alcoholic refreshment. Most artwork is available for sale, and artists will be on-hand to discuss their work. The Art & Wine Walk is a great way to experience downtown Grand Forks and East Grand Forks, view artwork by regional artists, and learn about the many and varied businesses downtown. The Art & Wine Walk begins at the Blue Moose Bar & Grill in East Grand Forks or GuestHouse International in Grand Forks. Maps can be purchased for $10 at either location. At participating businesses, maps will be stamped (wine consumption is not required to receive a stamp). Maps can be turned in at the closing reception at the Empire Arts Center to enter a drawing for a gift basket of prizes donated by participating businesses. The closing reception will also feature a champagne tasting, sponsored by Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops. To participate in the Art & Wine Walk, visit the Blue Moose Bar & Grill in East Grand Forks or the GuestHouse International in Grand Forks between 1 and 4 p.m. to purchase a map. A champagne tasting, sponsored by Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops, will take place at 5 p.m. at the Empire Arts Center. Patrons over 21 will receive a wristband, allowing participation in wine tasting. Children under 12 accompanied by an adult receive free admission. Art & Wine Walk 2009 event dates are Sept. 19 and Oct. 17. The Art & Wine Walk is sponsored by the North Valley Arts Council and the Greater Grand Forks Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Empire Arts Center, the Blue Moose Bar & Grill, GuestHouse Town House & Muddy Rivers, Clear Channel Radio, Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops, and Gilly’s Bar & Grill. To learn more about the Art & Wine Walk, visit www.culturepulse.org. To participate as a hosting business or an exhibiting artist, please contact the North Valley Arts Council at 777-6120 or info@novac.org. -- Nicole Derenne, Executive Director, North Valley Arts Council, info@novac.org, 701-772-3710