Cornerstone Center for the Arts, an organization focused on connecting with and providing opportunities to the community, is asking local businesses to give back. The organization will collaborate with several Muncie restaurants to form "Dine on the Nines." On the ninth day of the ninth month in 2009, nine restaurants will donate 9 percent of their patrons' total bill to Cornerstone. No receipts or coupons necessary.
Chris Mahon, director of community engagement and the coordinator for "Dine on the Nines," said Cornerstone partnered with many of these restaurants not only because of their great location in Muncie and the varied price range but also because of their involvement with Taste of Muncie, another event designed to raise money for additional programs and events at Cornerstone.
For Dave Franklin, catering manager at Vera Mae's Bistro, the opportunity to help the arts venue and the current recession causing less people to eat out made the decision to become involved an easy one.
"We've always had a strong partnership with Cornerstone," Franklin said. "With the economy the way it is, this event was a no-brainer."
Even though this is the first time for the event, Franklin said he thinks it will attract additional customers.
"I believe we will have a larger crowd than normal for a Wednesday. This is a win-win situation," he said.
Andy Porter of the Blue Bottle Coffee Shop said he is also optimistic about participation.
"I can't say what to expect for a turn out, but our expectations are high," he said
Blue Bottle is also a big supporter of Redtail Conservancy nature preservation group. "We like to help out and support in any way we can," Porter said.
The proceeds from "Dine on the Nines" success will go to support events and classes offered by Cornerstone, so Mahon encourages visiting more than one restaurant.
"My suggestion is to frequent as many of these locations as possible," said Mahon. "Dine out, dine often."
Dining at any of the following restaurants will help Cornerstone Center for the Arts fund programs and events.
- B.L.D. 50s Café- Blue Bottle Coffee Shop- Carino's Italian Grill- Coffee Junkiez- Noodles & Company- Pizza Hut (all three Muncie locations)- Scotty's Brewhouse- Texas Roadhouse- Vera Mae's Bistro
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