The restaurant at 1915 S. Calhoun St. has seen some changes over the years. After going from Calhoun Street Soups, Salads, and Spirits to Welch’s Ale House in 2018, it was renamed Proof in September. Now, the entertainment venue inside the building has also gotten a makeover.

After being known as The Tiger Room for years — a name co-opted from the 2008 movie “The Rocker” — the room is now known as The Socialite at Proof.

Along with being available for private parties, the venue will host the Cleveland-based acrobat troupe Sky Circus on Dec. 1-2, mentalist Bryan Friedman on Dec. 15-16, and a New Year’s Eve one-woman burlesque show with An Evening with Lavendelle on Dec. 31.

Fort Wayne parks receive statewide honor

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department received the Outstanding Agency Award at the Indiana Park and Recreation Association Awards of Excellence ceremony on Nov. 16. 

The award identifies an exceptional IPRA agency which shows involvement and significant contributions to the parks and recreation field. 

Fort Wayne was recognized for playing a vital role in providing recreational opportunities which add up to more than 1,500 programs each year, preserving natural spaces by maintaining, protecting, and restoring habitats, and fostering community engagement.

“Every year, I’m blown away by the accomplishments of our staff,” Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel said in a press release. “In 2022, the year this award marks, we were able to add 30 new pickleball courts, celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Franke Park Day Camp, restore Pavilion Three in Foster Park and the historic Wells Street Bridge, and earn the 32nd consecutive Tree City USA Award among many other improvements.”

Wabash hands out downtown award

Lisa Gilman was recently named the recipient of the Stephen H. Downs Downtown Legacy Award by Downtown Wabash Inc. and its board of directors.

The award was created in 2019 to honor Steve Downs for his years of service to Downtown Wabash Inc. The award is given to individuals or entities that have shaped the trajectory of downtown Wabash. 

“It is wonderful to receive an award for something that I’ve accomplished over the years,” Gilman said. “It’s really thoughtful of Downtown Wabash Inc. and is very special to me.” 

Gilman and her husband have purchased and renovated several buildings in downtown Wabash and have a strong commitment to historic preservation.

“I couldn’t have done any of this without my husband,” Gilman said. “We wouldn’t have anything here if it wasn’t for his hard work to support all that I’ve accomplished.”

Shop small businesses this holiday season

Shop among 48 retailers and more than 50 food and beverage establishments during Holly Shopping in downtown Fort Wayne on Saturday, Nov. 25, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Participating locations will offer discounted retail specials and provide plenty of festive cheer to celebrate the holiday season.

Trolleys will transport shoppers and a CTN bus will also provide accessibility to riders. All modes of transportation will run one continuous route with 15 stops near local retailers. 

Engage with various holiday characters throughout the day, including Santa, Buddy the Elf, and Jovie. 

For more information, a list of shopping specials, and a digital map, please go to HollyShopping.com.

Artlink hosting curated marketplace

Speaking of holiday shopping, you might want to stop by Artlink Market for curated marketplace featuring the best in fine art, contemporary crafts, and handmade goods. Artlink Market: Winter Edition takes place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. every Saturday from Nov. 25-Dec. 9. 

Black Friday wrapping party at The Charles

Once you’re finished shopping, head to The Charles, 3127 Carroll Road, for wrapping party Friday, Nov. 24, 6 a.m.-9 p.m. 

Wrapping supplies will be available for purchase or you can bring your own. There will also be snacks, soft drinks, hot chocolate, coffee, and a full bar service with a minimum of one drink per person per hour. 

Holiday movies and holiday music will provide entertainment throughout the event. 

News and Venues covers Northeast Indiana’s music and arts organizations, venues, and colleges, from large to small. Send your news items to info@whatzup.com.