The Art Box - Episode 447 - The Ripple Effect: Cheryl Kilker's Journey of Joy

The Art Box - Episode 447 - The Ripple Effect: Cheryl Kilker's Journey of Joy

On Episode 447 of The Art Box, we sit down with one of Mesquite's most beloved performers, volunteers, writers, and community champions, Cheryl Kilker. From her days traveling the world with Up with People as Cheryl Kirking to her years on stage, in community service, and as an author, Cheryl has spent a lifetime creating connections and inspiring others. We talk about her remarkable journey, her love of music and performance, her experiences as Ms. Senior Mesquite and Ms. Senior Nevada, and the life lessons that inspired her book, 100 Ripples of Joy. Along the way, Cheryl shares stories of resilience, gratitude, friendship, and the power of small acts of kindness to create waves of positive change far beyond what we can see. Her story is a reminder that one encouraging word, one song, one smile, or one act of service can send ripples across a community and beyond. Join us for a heartfelt conversation with a woman who has spent a lifetime proving that joy grows when it is shared. Because sometimes the smallest ripple becomes the biggest wave.

The Art Box - Episode 450 - MJ & Petty Fever Live at the Headliners Club

Turn it up, Art Box listeners! For our milestone Episode 450, MJ takes The Art Box on the road to the Headliners Club for an electrifying evening with Petty Fever, one of the nation's premier Tom Petty tribute bands. From the first guitar riff to the final encore, the energy was off the charts as fans packed the venue to celebrate the timeless music of one of rock's most beloved songwriters. MJ goes backstage and behind the music to chat with the talented musicians who bring the spirit, sound, and soul of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers to life night after night. We explore the passion, preparation, musicianship, and pure joy that goes into recreating these iconic songs for audiences who know every word. Whether you're a lifelong Tom Petty fan or simply love great live music, this episode captures the excitement, camaraderie, and magic that happens when a band connects with an audience through songs that have become part of our collective soundtrack. So grab your air guitar, sing along, and join MJ for a high-energy celebration of music, memories, and the enduring legacy of Tom Petty.

The Art Box - Episode 446 - Life Not Limits: Craft Beer, Community, and Connection with Scott & Vicki

On Episode 446 of The Art Box, we conclude our Gardnerville, Nevada road trip with Scott and Vicki, owners of Uninhibited: A Craft Brew Experience. What began as a love of craft beer has grown into something much larger, a gathering place where neighbors become friends, conversations flow as easily as the beverages, and community is always on tap. Scott and Vicki share the story behind their unique business, the welcoming atmosphere they've created in Gardnerville, and their mobile craft beer experience that brings people together at block parties, holiday celebrations, community festivals, and special events throughout the region. Along the way, we explore entrepreneurship, building community in a small town, and the simple joy of creating spaces where people can gather, connect, and share stories. Special thanks to the Nevada Arts Council for supporting our Gardnerville recording project and to Jen Tune and Main Street Gardnerville for their generous hospitality and for helping us discover the creative people and businesses that make this community so special. Life not limits. Community not strangers. One conversation at a time.

The Art Box - Episode 445 - More Than Ink: Building Community at Above the Bar Tattoo with Jennifer Sutton

On Episode 445 of The Art Box, recorded during our Gardnerville, Nevada road trip, we visit with tattoo artist and business owner Jennifer Sutton of Above the Bar Tattoo. Jennifer shares stories from her early life, her path into the world of tattoo artistry, and the creative journey that eventually led her and her husband Nick from Venice, California to the Carson Valley. What they found in Gardnerville was more than a place to open a business—it was a place to build community. Today, Above the Bar Tattoo serves as much more than a tattoo studio. Whether someone is stopping in for new ink, conversation, or simply a sense of connection, Jennifer and Nick have created a welcoming gathering place that reflects the spirit of small-town Nevada. Along the way, we discuss creativity, entrepreneurship, taking risks, and the importance of creating spaces where people feel at home. Special thanks to the Nevada Arts Council for supporting lodging during our Gardnerville recording project, and to Jen Tune and Main Street Gardnerville for their generous hospitality and assistance in helping us connect with the creative people who make this community so special. Abovethebartattoo.com Find out more at: http://Abovethebartattoo,com

The Art Box - Episode 444 - Drawing the Story: From Police Sketches to Travel Posters with Will Pender

On Episode 444 of The Art Box, recorded during our Gardnerville, Nevada road trip, we visit with artist Will Pender at the lively atmosphere of DST Coffee. Will shares stories of being the kid who was always drawing, how his artistic talents unexpectedly led him into a career as a law enforcement sketch artist, and how retirement has opened new doors for exploration, creativity, and curiosity. Today, Will is known for his striking travel poster artwork, capturing the character and beauty of places. Join us as we discuss the intersection of art and observation, the fascinating world of forensic sketching, and how a lifelong passion for drawing continues to shape Will's creative journey. And yes, you'll hear a little coffee shop ambiance in the background, a reminder that some of the best conversations happen in the middle of real life. Thank you Nevada Arts Council for covering in part my lodging and Jen Tune at Main Street Gardnerville for being a fabulous host.