December happenings and changes ahead at Tehachapi Treasure Trove

Many changes are coming up for the Treasure Trove over the next few months, but some things will remain the same in December. First Friday's celebration will be on Dec. 3 from 5 to 8 p.m., and will once again offer regulars and newcomers alike a chance for laughter and camaraderie, beverages and snacks. As usual, we are proud to feature the wonderful music of Art Larson.

Please note that Tehachapi Treasure Trove is once again a collection spot for Toys for Tots. You can bring in new, unwrapped toys anytime the store is open, through December 10. When you drop off a toy or toys, you'll receive a chance (or chances) to win a flat screen TV or other prizes. Our special thanks to Marty Pay, the event sponsor and a driving force behind the local Toys for Tots effort for many years.

As mentioned above, changes are coming soon to the Treasure Trove which will officially start with the new year. Over the past few months, owner Mel White and several long-time active artist volunteers and Alari Jewelry have been exploring the idea of turning the sole proprietorship into a working artist co-operative. After gaining momentum, enough people – both artists and community supporters – have stepped up and signed up to make the idea a reality.

Display spaces throughout the store will be rearranged but we expect to continue to offer an even better variety of uncommonly eclectic and unusually unique, locally made items and supplies. New artists/vendors will be encouraged to apply in January.

One major change has already been decided by the new membership: the name for the store will be changed to Tehachapi Arts Center in the new year. Other changes will be discussed and announced by newly formed committees, which are currently working hard to ensure a smooth transition in January. Watch this space as more information becomes available.

One change already happening at the Treasure Trove is that the store has been able to increase business hours: we are now open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Upcoming classes for December include the ever popular Wine and Paint Nite on Dec. 18, with Judith Campanaro, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost is $30 per person and includes snacks, as well as painting supplies for the night. Come and enjoy a fun evening with friends and take home a finished painting! Call (661) 822-6794 early to reserve your spot.

Children's art classes continue on Wednesday afternoons, now with Grayson Kamerer. Call for more info. Other ongoing classes include Art Journaling and Mixed Media with Judith Campanaro on select Saturdays and Tuesday ZOOM classes. Call for dates and costs.

Open studios continue every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday morning (except when closed, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day). Cost for open studios is $5 each session. Bring whatever you are working on – painting, needlework, crafts, etc. – and meet and spend time with other creative types.

Tehachapi Treasure Trove (661) 822-6794 is located at 116 E. Tehachapi Blvd. (across the street from the water tower in historic downtown Tehachapi).

Soon to be known as Tehachapi Arts Center, we will continue to be the place where art happens!