OZ, the Artists’ Workshop and Patti’s Main Street Coffee House are inviting New Castle residents of all ages to create cut-out snowflakes, which will be displayed beginning Jan. 1 at both establishments. Patty Ringer from OZ is offering a free drawing lesson for the best in each age category depending on participation, and snowflake-makers will receive a complimentary cup of cocoa from Patti’s. Flakes must be submitted to either Patti or Patty prior to Jan. 1.

For more information about the Snowflake Contest, call Patti’s at 984-9115 or Patty at 984-0445.

“The Spirit of New Castle,” a mural located on the outside of the New Castle Community Center – by well-known local artist Mary Pilon – was dedicated last weekend during the Christmas in New Castle festivities. The mural consists of 15 angled panels.

The perspective is arranged so what seems to be closest is actually on the deepest panel. This optical illusion is designed to captivate the viewer and present fresh views to admirers walking past in either direction.

Pilon’s submission was chosen because it met all of the criteria to be located on the Community Center. It reflects the unique character of the Historic Old Town District, its history, a novel setting, life today and the family and community focus of its residents. It was funded through New Castle’s Arts in Public Places program.

First previewed in July as a work-in-progress, Pilon has since invited the public to visit and observe as she went through the steps required to complete this unique mural. Two craftsmen, Andy Honchell and Carl Maulbetch, and assistance from Mr. T’s Hardware helped complete the 12-foot-long supporting structure.

“New Castle is proud to call Mary, a groundbreaker among muralists, one of our own,” said Patty Ringer. “She is also in demand for prestigious interior and exterior faux finishing and interior murals, working professionally in the Roaring Fork Valley since the ’80s.”

Pilon’s works have been chosen by Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association for its annual greeting cards, and her poster, “Legends of Glenwood” was selected for the 2007 Fall Arts Festival poster. Pilon is best know for her renditions of Mt. Sopris, which are in numerous collections.

Stop by Patti’s Main Street Coffee House to check out Betsy Blackard’s colorful pastels, from small still lifes to landscapes. A reception to meet the artist will be held from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 at Patti’s.

And while doing some banking at Alpine Bank New Castle, take a few minutes to appreciate Jane Lee’s oils in the lobby through the end of January. Bucky Moser and Alpine Bank are to be commended for supporting local artists.

Last weekend’s Chili Cook-off featured ten contestants for chili and four microbrewers. More than 200 attendees sampled the chili and microbrews.

Steve Higgs of Cooters Country Catering won first place; Cindy Schons earned second place and Ben Dickson took home third place honors.

Jeremy West of Amorous Turtle Brewing won first place of the microbrews; and Rifle Brewing Company and Wes MacCochran were in a second-place tie.

Debra Enlow received a $1,000 store credit from Mr. T’s giveaway and Cindy Sarno won the Hot Chili-Cold Cash giveaway of $140.

“Special thanks to all of our contestants, Gina Granville [Love From Above Ministries] and guests who provided the live music in Ritter Plaza, the Talbotts for providing the hayrides, Eddie Dagner [Santa], and all our wonderful volunteers,” said New Castle Chamber President Susan Alexander. “We could not have done this without the help of our community.”

The event sponsors were Alpine Bank, Burning Mountain Bowl, Chili’s, Emz Treatz, Innermountain Distributing., Making New Waves, Pepsi and Spirits.

Bill’s Cowboy Steak House recently acquired its liquor license, so now you can order a glass of wine or beer with your steak, salmon, lamb or chicken. Patti’s Main Street Coffee House still wishes to remain the family-friendly gathering place it has been.

– Kay Vasilakis’ “New Castle News” column runs every other Thursday in the Glenwood Springs Post Independent. For possible mention of your positive local events or news items, e-mail kayvasilakis@yahoo.com or call 618-6689.