Dreams of Dust, French film, at JavaVino

Dreams of Dust, a French drama, will be shown at JavaVino on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 5 to 7 p.m., part of the Racine Public Library's screening of award-winning films from around the world.

Written and directed by Laurent Salgues, with cinematography by Crystel Fornier, and starring
Makena Diop and Fatou Tall-Salgues, it won the Grand Jury Prize at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival It tells the story of Mocktar, a Nigerian peasant looking for work in a dusty gold mine in Northeast
Burkina Faso, Africa and trying to forget a haunting past. His path collides with Coumba, a mother trying to raise her daughter after the death of her family.

Variety says, "Salgues' screenplay is perfectly crafted in the Western tradition, while Crystel Fournier's striking cinematography connects the film to a broad African vision..."

Because this film is not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend it for children under age 17. JavaVino is located at 424 Main St.

Downtown sets holiday parade, tree lighting

More than 40 entries are scheduled to participate in Racine's downtown Holiday Parade on Saturday, Nov. 8 beginning at 5:30 p.m. Among those marching will be Santa and his elves, live reindeer, lighted floats, costumed characters and more -- including the Marine Corps League Color Guard and the 132nd US Army Band.

Children are encouraged to bring their letters to Santa which will be picked up along the route by Racine Post Office postal carriers. Children are reminded to put their return address on their letter as Santa has promised that he will personally answer every letter.

The parade, sponsored by Twin Disc and presented by the Downtown Racine Corporation, begins at 5:30 p.m. on Main and State Streets, progresses south along Main Street and then heads west on Sixth Street to City Hall.

Immediately following the parade, a tree lighting ceremony will be held at Monument Square where Santa will light the Community Christmas Tree, accompanied by caroling, costumed characters and refreshments for sale at Monument Square.

This year’s Community Christmas Tree is a 30 ft. spruce donated by Paul Bouwma of Racine.

There will also be a free family hands-on art event at RAM. From 1-4 p.m., enjoy RAM's newest exhibition, "Basketworks: The Cotsen Contemporary American Basket Collection" and then weave a wonderful basket to give as a gift or keep as a treasure.

Parade participants in alphabetical order.

• 132nd Army Band with the Wisconsin Army National Guard
• Agerholm-Gross Detachment #346 Marine Corps League
• Academy of Dance
• American Coed Pageants
• American Professional Driving School
• CNH with Jane & Kidd from WMYX
• Central Bark – Racine Dog Day Care
• Century 21 Savaglio & Cape
• City of Racine Mayor Gary Becker
• City Alderman 1st District Jeff Coe
• City of Racine Stage on Wheels with Nightwing
• Corvettes for Christ
• Dance Arts Center
• Downtown Racine Corporation
• Downtown Racine’s Mr. Bear
• Eight Tiny Reindeer
• The Enchanted Carriage with Santa
• Four Seasons Lawn Care and Rent-This-Truck
• The Grinch - RIC Electric and Racine Harley Davidson
• Gospel Lighthouse
• Horlick High School Student Government
• It’s All About Racine – Mark Eickhorst
• Jelly Belly Visitor Center
• Jo-Don Farms Live Nativity Scene
• Mickey Mouse and Tigger
• The Milwaukee Dancing Grannies
• Miss Latino Racine Scholarship Corp.
• Proper Paws University
• Racine Area Soccer Association
• Racine Broadcasting, Lew Turner
• Racine County Fair, Little Queen Savanna Rasmussen
• Racine County Fair, Little King Dalton Scherer
• Racine 4th Fest Calliope
• Racine Kilties
• Racine Montessori School
• Racine Zoo
• R.E.A.L. School High School Band
• St. Sebastian School
• Sons of Norway Lodge 5-183
• SE WI Racine Hog Chapter #5624
• Star Wars, 501st Midwest Garrison
• US Postal Service Racine
• Vittoria Colonna Lodge
• WITI Fox 6, Justin Williams
• Washington Park High School Varsity Pom Poms
• Wizard of Oz Characters

Old-Fashioned (Doggie) Holidays

Proper Paws University will host a unique, dog-friendly “Old Fashioned Holidays” event on Sunday, Nov. 2.

The event, open to the public, will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Proper Paws, 2625 Eaton Lane. Friendly dogs and their humans are invited to join in an afternoon of holiday fun. In addition to holiday-themed, professional photos of your dog which can be ordered as greeting cards, there will be a variety of vendors with dog-themed items, which include dog collars, dog themed scarves, watches and jewelry, and glass works.

The event is free but a portion of the sales will go to support Hope Safehouse. Proper Paws University provides dog daycare, training, tutoring and specialized facilities to help families enjoy their canine companions. For more information, or to make an appointment for a photo session, call 262-634-PAWS.

No school at RUSD Thursday and Friday

All Racine Unified schools will be closed on Thursday, Oct. 30, and Friday, Oct. 31, due to the Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC) Teacher Convention.

School will resume for students and teachers on Monday, Nov. 3. Families with questions should contact their student's school.

RUSD superintendent at Cesar Chavez Center

Dr. Jim Shaw, the Racine Unified School District's new superintendent, will host a listening session to hear concerns of parents and the community on Nov. 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Cesar Chavez Community Center, 2221 Douglas Ave.

Homebrewers want to teach you how...

Check your calendar. Next Saturday, Nov. 1, is International Teach a Friend to Homebrew Day.

What, you didn't know that? You're thinkin' we made it up, right?

Not so! It's as real as you and me, Dorothy. A check of the Internets provides the details on numerous sites. Says one:

"Ah, it’s that time of the year again. Time to break out your mash paddle, fire up the burners and teach someone how to homebrew! According to the American Homebrewers Association this is actually the 10th annual Teach a Friend to Homebrew Day, "an international event to introduce people to the homebrewing hobby and establish relationships with local homebrew supply shops.”

Each year on the first Saturday in November homebrewers get together and gather up some friends and teach them how to brew beer. It could be possible that your friends may not ever brew a beer again, but I think it’s very important that if you love beer, you understand how beer is made.

See, doubting Thomas! Far better than "Algebra Day," eh? (Yes, there is such a thing... in early May. You could look it up.)

But I digress. Back to the subject at hand: Teach a Friend to Homebrew Day will be celebrated at DP Wigley, 234 Wisconsin Ave., on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Belle City Homebrewers and Vintners club will demonstrate beermaking on the dock and inside the store.

DP Wigley's store-within-a-store -- Hop To It Brewing & Winemaking Supplies -- carries a large selection of all the equipment and ingredients needed for making beer and wine. Equipment and ingredients are in stock, and home brew samples will be available.

The average beginning home brewer spends about $70-110 for equipment to make the first batch. Over 20 styles of ingredient kits are available with everything included to make a 5 gallon batch for $25-35. Once the equipment cost is recovered, each batch costs about .48 to .68 a bottle. This compares very favorably with similar brews costing $1 to $4 or more per bottle at the liquor store.

Partial grain brewing, the most common method, involves about 1.5 hours initially to prepare, cook, and transfer your batch to the fermenter. It then takes about 1-2 hours more over a 3-5 week period to complete fermentation and bottling. Drinking time varies.

All the equipment purchased for brewing beer can also be used for making wine. Making wine from a kit is extraordinarily easy, and the wine is very, very good. Homemade wine costs range from $1 to $3 a bottle ordinarily, and a batch is usually about 30-32 bottles.

This time of year, people are brewing batches of hard apple cider, or using other local fruits. Others are experimenting with Christmas ales, pumpkin ales, rhubarb, grape, cherry wines, or blends of whatever. The methods are simple, and as long as you follow some simple cleanliness procedures, you will create a flavorful brew that you can call your own.

Hop To It recently hosted Wisconsin’s largest home brew contest. Racine’s own Belle City Brewers and Vintners Club took top honors with the most club medals for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishes out of over 500 entries. So some of the best homebrewers win Wisconsin will be at DP Wigley on Saturday.

One more thing: There will be samples. 'Nuff said?

Case HS presents The Sound of Music

The J.I. Case High School Performing Arts Collective will present The Sound of Music on Nov. 21 and 22 at 7 p.m. and on Nov. 23 at 3 p.m. The show will take place in the high school’s auditorium, 7345 Washington Ave.

Tickets go on sale Nov. 1 and are $8 per person. Advanced tickets can be purchased by calling (262) 619-4203 between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. Parking is free in the North parking lot of the school.

For more information, contact Jeanne Schierstedt at (262) 619-4200.

Trying to live...happily ever after at RTG

Following two sold-out performances by John McGivern, the Racine Theatre Guild’s Comedy Tonight series continues on Nov. 8 with the popular “Trying to Live . . . Happily Ever After,” featuring Jane Matenaer and Steve DeClark. There will be just one performance at 8 p.m. at the Guild, 2519 Northwestern Ave.

The eternal hope of married couples everywhere is portrayed in this delightful comedy. Through a series of vignettes, you’ll get insights into the married “condition” and a hilarious view of its trials and tribulations. Get tips from both genders’ perspectives on how to survive, stay married, and achieve your own “happily ever after.” This is a show that every couple can relate to and appreciate, and every person contemplating marriage ought to see.

Jane Matenaer, beloved WMYX morning DJ, has a voice and distinctive laugh that have been part of southeastern Wisconsin’s radio scene for nearly 25 years. Recently Jane has been able to indulge her love of the stage, with roles in “Cheese Louise” and “The Vagina Monologues,” in addition to multiple performances of “Trying to Live . . . Happily Ever After” in sold-out houses throughout the region.

Steve DeClark has been performing stand-up comedy for as long as Matenaer has been on the radio, almost 25 years. While living in Los Angeles, he appeared on film and television. In 1996, he made the transition from stand-up comic to marriage and family therapist.

Individual tickets for “Trying to Live . . . Happily Ever After” cost $18 each for adults and $15 for students. The RTG box office is open from noon to 6 p.m. weekdays, and one hour prior to curtain time. For reservations and information, call 262-633-4218.

Tickets are also available for the remaining shows in the series, Dave Luczak on February 7 and ComedySportz on March 28. Visit online to learn more about the Racine Theatre Guild, a community theatre offering a wide variety of entertainment and enrichment opportunities.

Stuart Little onstage at Theatre Guild

The endearing classic tale of the adventures of a tiny mouse named Stuart will come alive when the Racine Children’s Theatre presents eight performances of “Stuart Little,” Nov. 7-9, at the Racine Theatre Guild, 2519 Northwestern Ave.

Stuart is the youngest and smallest addition to the family of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick C. Little of New York City. Being a teeny little mouse in a huge city isn’t easy, Stuart learns, as he maneuvers in a world full of big people. Stuart is an amazing mouse with a good heart and great determination that see him through even the most difficult of situations. UW-Whitewater actors play many human and animal roles in a series of delightful scenes. Stuart makes new friends in his adventures, like Dr. Carey, a dentist who lets him drive his toy boat, and a bird named Margalo. Join Stuart on a grand search when Margalo goes missing. All of the charm, wisdom and joy of the original book by E. B. White are captured in this adaptation by Joseph Robinette.

“Stuart Little, ” sponsored by the Junior Women’s Club, runs for one weekend only, Nov. 7, 8 and 9. Show times are Friday at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday at 12, 2 and 4 p.m. Patrons are advised to arrive at the theatre at least fifteen minutes prior to curtain time. Packy, the elephant mascot of the Racine Children’s Theatre, introduces each performance. The costumed actors meet and greet audience members in the lobby afterwards.

The box office at the Racine Theatre Guild is open from noon to 6 p.m. on weekdays and one hour prior to each scheduled performance. Tickets are $6 each for all ages. Packy Plays are designed for families with children ages 4 and older. Seating is by general admission. Call 262-633-4218 for reservations and other information. Visit the Racine Children’s Theatre and Racine Theatre Guild online.

Horlick High holds 15th annual Holiday Fair

William Horlick High School will hold its 15th annual “Horlick Holiday Fair,” on Saturday, Nov. 22. This family event will be held at the school from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Admission is $2 per person or free with a coupon from the school’s website. Booth space is still available for $55. Interested vendors and patrons should contact Victor Moreno or Jessica Shanine at (262) 619-4300 extension 8953 or visit the website for more information.

Halloween storytime for kids at Library

The Racine Public Library will host a Halloween Storytime for kids ages 4-10 on Tuesday, Oct. 28, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Youth Services Dept.

Children will hear "not-so-scary" stories, participate in a Halloween craft and enjoy light refreshments. The wearing of creative and non-violent costumes is encouraged. Registration is recommended for this program and may be done by calling the library at 262.636.9245 or
by visiting the Youth Services Dept. reference desk in person.

"Adventures in Stories" is a monthly program designed to provide families with a chance to enjoy quality time together with the library's enthusiastic and creative storytellers. Each month,
children will explore a different theme through great books and simple crafts.

Library slates breakfast with four authors

Great authors and their books, good food and exceptional company might best describe the annual Breakfast with the Authors hosted by the Friends of the Racine Public Library. Literary enthusiasts will want to mark their calendars for the 22nd annual Breakfast on Nov. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at Roma Lodge, 7130 Spring St.

This wonderfully intimate event features a fabulous breakfast with fellow book lovers and some of the region's best authors. Each author will offer a short presentation and will be available for book signings. Admission to the breakfast is $12 and reservations may be made by calling 262.681.2381. Proceeds from the event benefit the Friends of the Racine Public Library.

These featured authors will be in attendance at this year's breakfast:

Mary Bergin – "Hungry for Wisconsin: A Tasty Guide for Travelers"

Mary Bergin of Madison writes about and photographs Wisconsin more than anywhere else. That means she stays relatively close to home when doing much of her work, which includes a weekly and syndicated travel column that began in 2002.

The author of the new "Hungry for Wisconsin: A Tasty Guide for Travelers" and "Sidetracked in Wisconsin: A Guide for Thoughtful Travelers" worked for newspapers for 30-some years before becoming a full-time freelancer.

Freedom tastes better than wealth, she has decided, and riches sometimes can be measured in mileage. Follow her work at www.mary-bergin.com and www.roadstraveled.com.

Awards include 2007 Best Book ("Sidetracked") and 2007 Photographer of the Year, during Society of American Travel Writers Central States competition. A three-part photo/text package about Bavaria was judged Best Series in the 2008 Midwest Travel Writers Association contest.

Libby Fischer Hellmann – "Easy Innocence – A Novel of Suspense"

According to the Chicago Tribune, "Libby Fischer Hellmann has joined an elite club: Chicago mystery writers who not only inhabit the environment but also give it a unique flavor." While the Trib was referring to Libby's award-winning amateur sleuth series featuring Chicago video producer Ellie Foreman, her fifth novel, Easy Innocence, promises to do the same.

Easy Innocence is a dark, disturbing tale about high school girls and what they are doing when they're not adequately supervised. It came out of Libby's experience with her own daughter, and what she imagined as "every mother's nightmare."

Libby Hellmann is the author of the "Ellie Forman" series of mysteries which debuted in 2002 with "An Eye for Murder". This and several other books from the series have won the Readers Choice Award.

Libby has published over 12 short stories, and edited the acclaimed crime fiction anthology, Chicago Blues, which was released in October, 2007 by Bleak House Books.

A transplant from Washington, D.C., Libby has lived in the Chicago area thirty years. When not writing fiction, she conducts executive training programs in presentation skills, speech delivery, and media interviews. She also writes video scripts, articles, and speeches. She holds a BA from the University of Pennsylvania and an MFA in Film Production from New York University. A

Terry Lynch – "But I Don't Want Eldercare! ─ Helping Your Parents Stay as Strong as They Can as Long as They Can."

In this myth-shattering guide to aging in America, Terry Lynch unveils a compelling and effective counterpoint to the traditional "caring for your aging parents" theme. "We have more control over the future than we realize," says Lynch. "Dependency and the burden of caregiving are not inevitable - far from it. It is urgent that people understand why."

A remarkable personal journey underlies Terry Lynch's eye-opening from his work with the White House Conference on individuals with disabilities, to a decade as his mother's caregiver. Lynch's approach to self-reliant aging is based on Eight Rules or "counter-myths" that Lynch says we must know in order to make the best possible decisions and avoid disastrous mistakes.

Lynch's strategies set this book apart. "Many helpful books tell people what they should know and where to find it," says Lynch. "I take it further by showing readers how to use this information to achieve sometimes unconventional goals."

Lynch specializes in helping older people remain self-reliant and involved in community life. He has been advancing the independent living cause since 1977, first in Washington, D.C. and then as an independent living consultant in Wisconsin. Lynch is a member of the AARP-Wisconsin Executive Council and the State Board on Aging and Long-Term Care.

Michael Schumacher – "The Wreck of the Carl D.: A True Story of Loss, Survival, and Rescue at Sea."

This is the dramatic account of the sinking of the Carl D. Bradley on Lake Michigan, published on the fiftieth anniversary of the wreck.

On November 18, 1958, the Carl D. Bradley, a 623-foot limestone carrier caught in one of the most violent storms in Lake Michigan history, snapped in two and sank within minutes. Four of the thirty-five man crew escaped to a small raft, where they hung on in total darkness, braving massive waves and frigid temperatures. As the storm raged on, a search-and-rescue mission hunted for survivors, while the frantic citizens of nearby Rogers City, the tiny Michigan hometown to twenty-six members of the Bradley crew, anxiously awaited word of their loved ones' fates.

In Wreck of the Carl D., Michael Schumacher reconstructs, in dramatic detail, the tragic accident, the perilous search-and-rescue mission, and the chilling aftermath for the small town so intimately affected by the tragedy. A fitting tribute to a powerful ship, the men who died aboard it, and the town that still mourns its loss.

Michael Schumacher is the author of nine books, including Family Business, Francis Ford Coppola, There but for Fortune, Crossroads, Dharma Lion, Mighty Fitz, and, most recently, Mr. Basketball. He lives in Wisconsin.

Visit Wisconsin's most haunted locations

The Racine Public Library will host Wisconsin's Most Haunted Locations, a presentation by Chad Lewis of Unexplained Research. The event will be held on Monday, Oct. 27, from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Library's Atrium.

Chad Lewis, a Paranormal Investigator for Unexplained Research LLC, has traveled to numerous locations in search of paranormal phenomena. A former state director for the Mutual UFO Network with a Master's degree in Applied Psychology, Lewis has assisted in BLT Crop Circle investigations and has hosted numerous national radio and television programs. He is the author of "The Hidden Headlines" series and co-author of the "Road Guide to Haunted Locations" series..

The program is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended for this event as space is limited. To reserve a spot contact the Library at 262.636.9217 or visit the Adult Services
Reference desk in person.

'Fill the Beetle' benefit for Food Pantry

How much food can you stuff into a Volkswagon Beetle?

Three local computer nerds hope to find out on Saturday, Nov. 1, as they conduct a food drive outside the Pick n' Save grocery store to benefit the Racine County Food Bank.

Their "Fill the Beetle to Feed the People" food drive will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. outside the Pick 'n Save at the intersection of Green Bay Road and Spring Street. The nerds will be collecting non-perishable food items and donations to help the Racine County Food Bank restock its shelves.

The three nerds, led by Donte Cosey of Racine, are all contractors for Nerds on Site, a company that sends technicians to homes and businesses to deal with computer problems. And, yes, they show up in their signature red VW Beetles "NerdMobiles." For additional information on Nerds On Site call (262) 637-3737 or visit their website .

Boo at the Zoo event for kids

The Racine Zoo will host Boo at the Zoo on Saturday, Oct., 25, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for kids ages three to ten.

Boo at the Zoo features trick-or-treating and more in a safe, family environment. Children and parents are invited to visit nearly 20 stations featuring candy giveaways, crafts and art projects as well as experience up-close animal encounters with the Racine Zoo animal ambassadors and chats about Max and Jenny, the Zoo’s orangutans.

Participants are encouraged to wear costumes and bring trick-or-treat bags for taking home candy and crafts.

“We are thrilled to host Boo at the Zoo this fall. In the distant past, the Zoo hosted a similar annual event. I guess you could say the event is back by popular demand. Some of the past participants can likely bring their own children to this year’s Halloween event,” said Jay Christie, Racine Zoo president.

Admission to the Zoo is free for members and kids under 3, $2 for kids 3-15, $3 for seniors and $4 for adults. Children participating in Boo at the Zoo festivities will pay a nominal additional $3 for their “Pumpkin Pass” to each of the stations. Participation in the event is free, however, for children of Racine Zoo members. Membership cards must be presented at the entrance and at the “Pumpkin Pass” station inside the Zoo.

For more information on Boo at the Zoo and other Zoo events and programs explore the website or call 262.636.9189. The Racine Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Keeping it Concrete: Professional training session

“Keeping It Concrete: Fresh Ideas To Integrate Action And Talk” will be the first of a series of professional trainings as the fourth year of the Midwest Training series begins on Friday, Oct. 24, at Lake House Health & Learning Center, 932 Lake Ave.

Experiential techniques promise to enliven assessment interviews, group and individual therapy, coaching and classroom settings. In this workshop, with Karen Carnabucci, MSS, LCSW, TEP, you will learn:

• Simple, effective ways to enliven therapeutic situations, including the use of props.
• How to assess an individual or group with action techniques, rather than simply talking.
• How to identify the readiness of clients to take action.
• Improvisational ways to deepen a person's experience of self, the issue and possible solutions.

The program is scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon, with three continuing education and psychodrama hours, as well as continuing education credits for social workers, addictions counselors and licensed professional counselors.

For more information about the Midwest Training Series and its 2008-2009 schedule, see the website. Tuition is $35 for this program. Email Karen or call (262) 633-2645 for information or to register.

Doyle here Monday; Obama in Madison Thursday

Three events for local Democrats to attend.

-- Gov. Jim Doyle will be in Racine Monday, to discuss the importance of voting early -- for Barack Obama.

Doyle will be at Obama's Racine Campaign for Change Headquarters, 522 Sixth St., at 11:15 a.m. Monday, along with Reps. Bob Turner and Cory Mason

-- Doyle will then go to Carthage College, at 12:30 p.m., in the Todd Weher Center, to help get out the vote there.

-- Sen. Obama will hold a rally in Madison on Thursday. The free event will be at noon on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. at Main Street on the Capitol Square, rain or shine. If you plan to attend, be aware of street closings.

Sen. Lehman to speak on education to AAUW

State Sen. John Lehman will speak on what is being done in Wisconsin to improve and assist the educational system at the American Association of University Women – Racine meeting on Saturday, Nov. 8, at the Racine Marriott, 7111 W. Washington Ave.

Registration is at 8:30 a.m., brunch is at 9 a.m. and the program begins at 10 a.m. To make reservations, contact Joyce Gregg at 632-6341 by Nov. 1. While the 10 a.m. program can be attended free-of-charge, AAUW requests that those planning to attend call Gregg so that seating arrangements can be made.

More information about AAUW-Racine is here.

Two gigs for Brian Daniels and the Barrel Boys

Brian Daniels & the Barrel Boys have a pair of upcoming Racine gigs.

On Oct. 24, they will play at the Vintage Rock Cafe in Elmwood Plaza; on Nov. 8 they will be at Ricky's on Main Street, Downtown. Both shows start at 9:30, and have a $5 cover.

Brian Daniels and the Barrel Boys have been together just over a year, playing rock-influenced country music in a high-energy show. You can hear a sample on MySpace.

Benefit in memory of Wendy Leittl-Sprague scheduled

A benefit in memory of Wendy Leittl-Sprague will be held Nov. 1.

Wendy courageously battled cancer for four years and was only 48 when she died on Aug. 31, leaving her husband, Rick, her 9-year-old son Austin, and her daughter, Michelle, 23.

Wendy and Rich met at Acme Die Casting where they both worked. Wendy also worked at Andis Clipper Company for nearly 10 years. Deteriorating health forced her to quit working in December 2007. At that time she had already battled skin cancer and thought she had won, but in December a brain tumor was detected, and then more cancer which took her life.

The benefit will be held at the Hiawatha Bar, 9809 Durand Ave., Sturtevant, from 5 p.m. to midnight on Nov. 1, to raise funds for funeral expenses and to establish a trust fund for Austin.

The event will be a Halloween-themed celebration for Wendy and her family. Admission is $15 for adults and $7 for children under 12 and includes food, beer and soda. There will be many items up for raffle, silent auctions, live entertainment from Vinny da Fish DJ and the Kenosha band Unlikely Heroes. Come in costume and participate in the costume contests. There are also games for adults and kids.

Inquiries and donations should be directed to Mona Barrientez, (262) 637-4446, or Mark or Jan Scarce at (414) 421-8285.

Proper Paws U. to host 'Howleen' Party

Proper Paws University will host a unique, dog-friendly Halloween party, “Howleen,” on Saturday, Oct. 25.

The event, which is open to the public, will run from 6 p.m. to 8:30 on the Racine campus, at 2625 Eaton Lane.

Friendly dogs and their humans are invited to join in a costume contest, explore a haunted dog house and enjoy food and fun for the whole family.

Cost of the event is $1 per person or $3 per family with a portion of the proceeds going to support a scholarship program for dogs from Hope Safehouse, rescue dogs and others.
Proper Paws University provides dog daycare, training, tutoring and specialized facilities to help individuals and families enjoy their canine companions to the fullest extent possible. For more information on the event call 262-634-PAWS.

Library presents 'Bonk!' Arts performance series

This month marks the inaugural event for the Racine Public Library's new "BONK!" performance series. Created to expose the public to both local and nationally recognized artistic talents, the series showcases poets, writers, musicians, filmmakers and all sorts of talents in between. A free program, this series is located in downtown Racine at the Blueberries restaurant, 418 Sixth St., which will be offering food and drinks to be purchased at the
events.

This month's BONK! event takes place Saturday, Oct. 25, at 6 p.m. and the featured performers include Jessika Mikol of Racine (filmmaker), Lorrie Wilson of Milwaukee (poet), Matt Mulready of Racine (writer) and Brent Mitchell of Kenosha headlining (musician).

Brent Mitchell's albums include "Reciting Whitman to the Cows," "Fallen Angel Palace" and his most recent, self-titled album. A native Texan, he has earned a long list of accomplishments including a Grammy listing for his song "Hand of God." Incorporating blues, jazz, country, Cajun, English and Latvian folk influences (among others), Brent Mitchell's music embodies a style of its own. To hear and watch him perform, visit his website.

Local artists in particular are encouraged to attend this first program, as the BONK! series organizers will be soliciting talents to perform alongside headlining acts in the future. After the
performances, there will be a short question and answer session with the artists.

For more information on the BONK! series, contact Becky Spika at 262-619-2571, or by email; or Nick Demske.

Library offers program on DTV transition

The Racine Public Library will host a program about the upcoming nationwide DTV broadcasting transition -- from analog to digital -- due to take effect Feb. 17, 2009. The one-hour informational program will be held on Monday, Oct. 20, at 6:30 p.m. in the Library's Lee Room.

Laura Allard, a representative from RadioShack, will be on hand to discuss what the DTV transition will involve, how it will affect your TV set, and the options available to you in making the switch. Congress has created the DTV Converter Box Coupon Program to help ease
the financial burden some people may face in making the transition. Participants in the library's information program will have an opportunity to apply for the converter box coupon.

The upcoming transition has the potential to impact not only television sets, but VCR and DVD players as well. Cable and satellite subscribers may also be impacted, making an antenna necessary to tune into some local stations. This informational program will address
many unique challenges customers may encounter.

The program is free and no registration is necessary. Call 262.636.9217 or visit racinelibrary.info and rplinfo.blogspot.com for current information about library programs.

Racine Symphony Orchestra announces 2008-09 Classical Season

The Racine Symphony Orchestra opens its 77th classical season with an all-Mozart program at First Presbyterian Church (716 College Ave., Racine) on Saturday, November 1st at 7 p.m. RSO Music Director Andrew Massey will conduct, with guest artist Fumi Nishikiori, piano, performing Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20. Also on the program are the overture to the opera Così fan tutte and Symphony No. 38 ("Prague").

Fumi Nishikiori-Nakayama is a regular piano soloist at Racine’s First Presbyterian Church. She earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree both in piano and harpsichord from the Chicago Musical College of Roosevelt University and from Indiana University, where she was the recipient of numerous awards and conducted the Indiana University orchestras and vocal ensembles. Her love for vocal music and theater led her to work as an opera coach for Indiana University Opera Theater for 6 years. Currently, Ms. Nishikiori teaches at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music in Milwaukee, freelances as a piano-harpsichord soloist and accompanist in Milwaukee and the greater Chicago area, and often participates in recording of newly composed works by Midwestern composers. Her lecture recitals, "Keyboards Across the Centuries," present performance on harpsichord, fortepiano, and modern piano. In 2007, she received the Distinguished Musician Award at the Ibla Grand Prize competition in Ragusa, Italy.

Fumi Nishikiori-Nakayama

The Racine Symphony Orchestra, now in its 77th season, is the oldest orchestra in continuous operation in the state of Wisconsin. Begun by Frederick Schulte, who served as conductor for many years, the orchestra has performed under the batons of Dudley Powers, Stephen Colburn, and David Becker and Alexander Platt. The RSO is dedicated to preserving our musical heritage by entertaining, educating and enriching audiences and musicians in the Racine community.

Flex passes and individual tickets are now on sale at www.racinesymphony.org. New ticketing options such as student and senior discounts, as well as family passes are being offered this season. In the coming months, the RSO will welcome guest artists Ami Bouterse, soprano (Holiday Pops, December 5); violinist Janice Martin (February 7, 2009); and Choral Arts Society (March 21, 2009). The season finale will be at Memorial Hall on Saturday May 9, 2009.

New this year, the Young Artist Recital (April 26, 2009) will feature student musicians who win top prizes at RSO’s 2009 Young Artist Competition. The Young Artist Competition is sponsored by Educators Credit Union.

RSO Board member Ellen Cardwell commented: "This lively season will showcase the talents of guest artists with Racine-area connections, and feature Music Director Massey’s informative concert notes, illuminating some of the most beloved selections from the classical repertoire. Attractive pricing for families, students and seniors, puts 'first-class' concert-going and classical music exposure right in the heart of our community, without having to drive far or search for parking.

"With the classical concert series now scheduled on Saturdays, attending an RSO concert can become the focus for a memorable evening whether you have a date, a colleague, your spouse or your entire family enjoying it with you," Cardwell added.

The Racine Symphony Orchestra’s 2008-09 season is supported by Platinum Corporate Season Sponsor Chase and Gold Corporate Season Sponsor Johnson Bank.


EVENT DETAILS

Racine Symphony Orchestra, with Fumi Nishikiori, piano
Saturday, November 1, 2008 at 7 p.m.
First Presbyterian Church, 716 College Ave., Racine
Free street parking available in the neighborhood, and in parking lots courtesy of First Presbyterian Church.

MOZART Overture to Così fan tutte
MOZART Symphony No. 38, “Prague”
MOZART Piano Concerto No. 20

Advance Tickets (purchased or reserved by Oct. 31)
$55 (family pass, up to 5 family members), $23 (adult), $20 (senior), $5 (students ages 8-22), and free for children under 8, though tickets are required.

Day-of-concert Tickets (purchased at the door)
$55 (family pass, up to 5 family members), $25 adult, $22 (senior), $8 (students ages 8-22), and free for children under 8, though tickets are required.

Flex Passes on sale through Nov. 1 ($85 or $80 for seniors) include 4 tickets good in any combination at Nov., Feb., Mar., and May concerts, plus other discounts and benefits. Holiday Pops tickets and tables sold separately.

Full 2008-09 season information and tickets are available at www.racinesymphony.org, or by calling (262) 636-9285.

Co-president of 'Freedom from Religion' here Oct. 23

Author Dan Barker will examine the political activities of religious organizations that enjoy exemption from state and federal taxes. His presentation will be Thursday, Oct. 23 at 7 pm, in the Michigan Room of Gateway Technical College’s Racine Building, 901 Pershing Drive. Parking is lakeside, Lot D. This event is free and open to the public.

The title of Mr Barker’s presentation is “Tax-Exempt Churches and Politics: Drawing the Line.” Churches are among the nonprofit groups that do not pay taxes and are thus prohibited from engaging in electoral politics or lobbying. Exactly which activities are prohibited is often a contentious matter. Some churches are sometimes charged with endorsing candidates or directing members to vote in certain ways, thus endangering their exemption from paying taxes.

Dan Barker has been co-president of the Freedom From Religion Foundation since 2004. A former minister and evangelist, Dan became a freethinker in 1983. His books, Just Pretend: A Freethought Book for Children and Losing Faith in Faith: From Preacher To Atheist are published by the Foundation. His Godless: How An Evangelical Preacher Became One of America's Leading Atheists, was published in 2008. He is a graduate of Azusa Pacific University with a degree in religion, and a professional pianist and composer.

This presentation is co-sponsored by the Racine Interfaith Coalition.

Mr Barker will also be speaking in University of Wisconsin-Parkside’s “Issues in Religion” series at noon on Oct. 23, Molinaro 161.

Dan Barker’s presentation is sponsored by the Racine Coalition for Peace and Justice. The Coalition is an initiative to promote citizen understanding, raise public awareness, and encourage participation in the democratic process for the purpose of achieving peace and just relations among peoples and nations and protecting civil liberties.

Feingold here for a 'vote early' rally

A "Vote Early for Change" rally will be held Monday in Racine, anchored by an address by Sen. Russ Feingold, D-WI.

The event -- 22 days before the election -- will be held at Racine City Hall, 730 Washington Ave., at 1:45 p.m. Only residents of the city of Racine can vote at this location.

Feingold will then go to Kenosha for a similar event at Veterans Park, Lakefront and 52nd St., at 2:30 p.m. Or maybe 2:45 -- we've seen two different memos from the campaign.

RSO's season opens with all-Mozart concert

Fumi Nishikiori, piano soloist

The Racine Symphony Orchestra opens its 77th classical season with an all-Mozart program at First Presbyterian Church, 716 College Ave., on Saturday, Nov. 1, at 7 p.m. RSO Music Director Andrew Massey will conduct, with guest artist Fumi Nishikiori performing Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20. Also on the program are the overture to the opera Così fan tutte and Symphony No. 38 (“Prague”).

Fumi Nishikiori-Nakayama is a regular piano soloist at Racine’s First Presbyterian Church. She earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree both in piano and harpsichord from the Chicago Musical College of Roosevelt University and from Indiana University. Her love for vocal music and theater led her to work as an opera coach for Indiana University Opera Theater for six years. Currently, Ms. Nishikiori teaches at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music in Milwaukee, performs as a piano-harpsichord soloist and accompanist in Milwaukee and the greater Chicago area, and often participates in recording of newly composed works by Midwestern composers. In 2007, she received the Distinguished Musician Award at the Ibla Grand Prize competition in Ragusa, Italy.

Flex passes and individual tickets are on sale. New ticketing options such as student and senior discounts, as well as family passes are being offered this season. In the coming months, the RSO will welcome guest artists Ami Bouterse, soprano (Holiday Pops, December 5); violinist Janice Martin (February 7, 2009); and Choral Arts Society (March 21, 2009). The season finale will be at Memorial Hall on Saturday May 9, 2009.

New this year, the Young Artist Recital on April 26, 2009, will feature student musicians who win top prizes at RSO’s 2009 Young Artist Competition, sponsored by Educators Credit Union.

“This lively season will showcase the talents of guest artists with Racine-area connections, and feature Music Director Massey’s informative concert notes, illuminating some of the most beloved selections from the classical repertoire," said RSO Board member Ellen Cardwell.

The Racine Symphony Orchestra’s 2008-09 season is supported by Chase and Johnson Bank.

Advance tickets, purchased or reserved by Oct. 31, are $55 (family pass, up to 5 family members), $23 (adult), $20 (senior), $5 (students ages 8-22), and free for children under 8, though tickets are required.

Day-of-concert tickets, purchased at the door, are $55 (family pass, up to 5 family members), $25 adult, $22 (senior), $8 (students ages 8-22), and free for children under 8, though tickets are required.

Flex Passes on sale through Nov. 1 ($85 or $80 for seniors) include 4 tickets good in any combination of this year's concerts, plus other discounts and benefits. Holiday Pops tickets and tables sold separately.

Full 2008-09 season information and tickets are available at www.racinesymphony.org, or by calling (262) 636-9285.

David Tomaloff to perform his new album

Racine singer and songwriter David Tomaloff will be performing in celebration of the release of his most recent album, "Birds on Wires." The event will be hosted by Matt Specht, an area musician, artist and actor on Saturday, Oct. 18, at the 6th Street Theatre. Doors open at 7 and the show begins at 8 p.m.

Tomaloff will be performing songs from the album, and talking about it. It's music in an intimate solo acoustic setting, giving the audience a unique opportunity to get to know both David and his music on a different level.

In true "artists-supporting-artists" fashion, the event will also be displaying artwork from several local artists.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance online or by calling (262) 880-4268.

You can get a sneak peek at the album here.

Live Radio! Frankenstein for Halloween in Kenosha

It’s alive!

For its Oct. 25 Halloween show at Kemper Hall in Kenosha, RG Productions promises to captivate and horrify audiences with an award-winning radio play, the timeless story about Dr. Frankenstein’s ill-fated miscalculation of the power of science, Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein."

But don’t come expecting to see a Boris Karloff-type rendition with the monster stomping around stage. According to producer Nita Hunter, this adaptation remains faithful to the Mary Shelley novel. “It’s a story filled with passion, brilliance, daring and ambition,” she says. “And one that’s just as timeless as ever in an era where scientific advancement has become more controversial and moral-laden.”

Ed Godula of Kenosha portrays a Frankenstein on the edge of sanity, while Doug Despin, also of Kenosha, portrays a haunting creature whose voice unfolds from grunts and groans and gives way to violent speeches. Racine actors include Ryan Meyers, Kandy Meyers, Jay Rattle, Dave Wildes and young Milan Meyers as William Frankenstein. Others in the cast are Jim Kollar, Jan Mihalski, Dan Stika, Susanne Wilczek and Philip Jaeger.

Carrie Messersmith and Dean Larson provide live sound effects; lighting and electrical effects are provided by Effects Unlimited of Kenosha, and sound design is by Rick Hagerty.

The show begins at 7 p.m. with a bonus episode of the enormously popular radio series, Suspense. The episode the group will recreate, "The Whole Town’s Sleeping" was written by Ray Bradbury. It stars Donna Abear and Tracy Kiederlen of Antioch, and Joan Roehre of Racine. Host for the evening’s festivities is Elvira, played by Jamie Rauth of Kenosha.

For more information, call (847) 710-2027 or go to www.rgaudioproductions.com

Teen Read Week celebrates Books With Bite

Area teens will be reading for the fun of it as the Racine Public Library celebrates the eleventh annual Teen Read Week, Oct. 12 – 18. They join thousands of other libraries, schools and bookstores across the country who are encouraging teens to celebrate this year's theme, "Books with Bite @ your library," by reading a wide variety of books and graphic novels, from animals to vampires to cooking, just "for the fun of it."

Librarians agree that today's teens have less free time, and it's important to encourage teens to set aside some time to read. Literacy is a topic of both local and national concern, and falling test scores and lower graduation rates among teens today are a serious issue.

Studies show a regular reading habit increases reading proficiency. One of the most important ways teens acquire the habit is by watching adults they respect. Being around adults who are avid readers can counteract the latest statistics from The Nation's Report Card, which indicate that in homes across America the number of different types of reading materials has decreased, and a smaller percentage of seventeen-year-olds saw adults reading in their homes. The Racine Pubic Library hopes to increase teen literacy locally by offering a variety of programs for teens during Teen Read Week and throughout the year:

TeenSpace Takes a Bite: Teens ages 11-18 are invited to join TeenSpace for a Library scavenger hunt, mystery food tasting, and book art project on Thursday, Oct. 16, from 3:30-5 p.m. in the Martin Room.

Parents of teens are encouraged to celebrate Teen Read Week at home. The Racine Public Library offers these ideas:

• Visit the local public or school library with your teen to attend a
program or to check out books.
• Set aside time each night for the family to read.
• Give books or magazine subscriptions to your teen as a gift or reward.
• Share your favorite book with your teen.
• Surf the Internet with your teen to learn about new books or
authors. A good place to start is YALSA's Booklist's page.
• Join a book discussion group at the school or public library.

Teen Read Week is held annually during the third week of October. More information can be found at www.ala.org/teenread. For more information about Racine Public Library programs call 262.636.9245.

Vote Early!

Want to miss the lines on Election Day? Vote early!

Official ballots are now available in the clerk's office at City Hall, 730 Washington Ave. Anyone can cast their vote for president, Congress and other local races before Election Day on Nov. 5.

The city is also sponsoring Early Voting Days at the Tyler-Domer Community Center, 2301 12th St., on Oct. 11 from 9-noon and Oct. 25 from 9-noon.

You can also vote early at the King Community Center, 1134 King Drive, on Oct. 18 from 9-noon and on Nov. 1 from 9-noon.

Main Gallery hiring young artists for fall program

The Racine Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department in cooperation with The Racine Arts Council’s Main Gallery program is accepting fall afterschool employment applications for its second session for young artist’s ages 14 – 19 in Creative Writing, Video Production, and Visual Art. Applications can be picked up at the PRCS Department, 800 Center Street, Room 127 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. until Monday, October 20, 2008.

Young Artists are paid $6.35 an hour for six hours per week. Shifts are Tuesday and Thursdays from 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. This program runs from November 11 through December 19th. An interest in the arts is a must!!

All applicants will be contacted by phone to set up interviews. If hired you must be able to provide a birth certificate, social security card and valid ID for employment and provide own transportation.

If you have any questions, please contact Jason Mars at 636-9428.

Sisterhood celebrated in RTG's Steel Magnolias

Love, loyalty and the bonds of sisterhood are celebrated in the popular comedy-drama “Steel Magnolias.” The play by Robert Harling that inspired the hit movie comes alive Oct. 24-Nov. 2, on the stage of the Racine Theatre Guild, 2519 Northwestern Ave.

Take a trip to Chinquapin Parish, Louisiana, and step into Miss Truvy’s hair salon, where the motto is “There is no such thing as natural beauty.” There you’ll meet the amiable and resilient women of “Steel Magnolias.” Wise-cracking Truvy (Cary Mertens), owner of The Beauty Spot, gives free advice with every salon visit. Her anxious new assistant is the bumbling Annelle (Stacey Duchrow), who has left her no-account spouse. The godmotherly Clairee (Carol May), widow of the mayor, dispenses wisdom and cake recipes. Wealthy and eccentric Ouiser (Nancy Moldenhauer) insists she isn’t crazy—she’s just been in a bad mood for 40 years. M’Lynn (Kim Emer), the local social leader, tangles with an erratic husband and a headstrong daughter, Shelby.

The prettiest girl in town and a diabetic, Shelby (Samantha Sustachek) is about to marry a good ole boy. Filled with hilarious repartee and verbal collisions, the play drops in on the beauty parlor over the course of several years, as the women come together to share their secrets and bare their souls. When tragedy strikes, it is in the haven of Truvy’s salon that they seek the solace and support to carry them through. From weddings to divorces, babies to funerals, new beginnings to happy endings, they face every event with grace, determination and perfectly coifed hair.

“Steel Magnolias” was the first thing ever written by Robert Harling, who decided to become an actor shortly before graduating from law school. Harling wrote “Steel Magnolias,” about a young woman stricken with an illness but determined to live life to the fullest, in a ten-day stretch while coping with the death of his sister from kidney failure in 1985. In 1987, the play opened off-Broadway, then toured the U.S. and Europe before being adapted by Harling into a popular film starring Shirley MacLaine, Sally Field, Julia Roberts and Dolly Parton. “Steel Magnolias” played on Broadway in 2005, with a cast that included Delta Burke, Christine Ebersole and Marsha Mason.

Tom Spraker directs the Racine Theatre Guild production. Steve Barnes designed the set. Bob Benson heads the volunteer crew, serving as production stage manager.

The sponsor of “Steel Magnolias,” Lite Rock 92.1, will conduct a contest with prizes to be given away at the Oct. 25 performance. For details, refer their website.

Performances of “Steel Magnolias” are scheduled on two weekends only, Oct. 24-Nov. 2. Show times are 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays (tickets $16), and 1:30 and 7 p.m. on Sundays (tickets $14). Discounts are available for seniors, season subscribers and groups. Box office hours are 12 to 6 p.m. weekdays and one hour prior to curtain times. On performance Saturdays, the box office opens at 2:30 p.m. For reservations, call 262-633-4218. To learn more about the Racine Theatre Guild, a nonprofit community theatre, visit RTG's website.

Santa coming early: Racine's parade is Nov. 8

Racine's annual Downtown Holiday Parade will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

In addition to Santa Claus and his elves, the parade will feature live reindeer, lighted floats, the Dancing Grannies, Sons of Norway, dancers from the Academy of Dance and Little Miss and Mr. Racine County Fair.

Other Winterfest events listed here.

This year’s parade will be led by the Marine Corps League Color Guard followed by the 132nd Army Band with the Wisconsin Army National Guard.

Children attending the parade are encouraged to bring their letters to Santa which will be picked up along the parade route by Racine Post Office postal carriers. All letters will be hand-delivered directly to Santa. Children are reminded to put their return address on their letter as Santa has promised that he will personally answer every letter he receives!

The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. on Main and State Streets, progresses south along Main Street to Sixth Street and then heads west on Sixth to City Hall.

There is no cost to be in the parade. School and church groups as well as other organizations may participate.

Parade applications are available at the Downtown Racine Corporation Office at 425 Main Street or you can download an application. Applications should be completed and returned to the DRC Office by Oct. 31. For more information, call the Downtown Racine Corporation at 262-634-6002.

Arranged marriage film offered at JavaVino

Zoe Lister-Jones, left, and Francis Benhamou in Arranged.

Arranged, a film offering a touching and often hilarious look at two women from very different cultures with much in common, not the least of which are their upcoming "arranged"
marriages, will be shown on Saturday, Oct. 11, at JavaVino, as part of the Racine Public Library's cultural film series. Free screenings are on the second Saturday of each month from 5-7 p.m.

Arranged is a drama from the U.S., directed by Diane Crespo and Stefan C. Schaefer. It won the Best Film Feature award in the Brooklyn International Film Festival.

NYC Movie Guide says, "Zoe Lister Jones and Frances Benhamou both give convincing performances that keep you engrossed in the story. The well-written screenplay by Stefan Shaefer breathes life into each character so that neither is one-note—nobody comes across as truly bad or over-the-top...It's very rare to find such a simple story with serious issues as friendship, true love, intolerance and prejudice, yet with an uplifting and hopeful message about how two people from seemingly different backgrounds can have so much in common by just getting to know one another. If everyone in the world were apply this to their own lives, perhaps there would be at least the chance for world peace.

Because this film is not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend it for children under age 17.

JavaVino, 424 Main St., offers appetizers, wine and coffee for purchase during the film.

Literacy campaign: You can do magic!

Magic is in the air as the Kenosha and Racine Literacy Councils launch their campaign to recruit new volunteer tutors. The theme of the campaign is “You Can Do Magic!” According to Mary Jane Landry-Wilkins, Executive Director of the Kenosha Literacy Council, “You change a person’s life forever when you teach them to read, write and speak English. If that isn’t magic, I don’t know what is!”

Kay Gregor, Director of the Racine Literacy Council added that the need to provide English literacy services exists in both counties. “One in five adults in Racine and Kenosha is unable to read or write well enough to perform everyday tasks. Both the Kenosha and Racine Literacy Councils need more tutors so that we can serve all the adults who want to learn. Now is the time for anyone who may have considered becoming a tutor in the past, to please step forward and volunteer.”

Volunteers need to be 16 years or older. Tutors do not need to know another language or have any teaching experience. Training of new tutors is provided and professional staff offer ongoing support.

Literacy enables people to partake fully in their community and meet challenges in daily life, such as going to the doctor without an interpreter or reading to your child. Mary Jane Landry-Wilkins said “Our tutors tell us that they find the experience very rewarding. Many have also said that they were surprised by the difference it made to their own lives.”

The campaign is funded by a grant to the University of Wisconsin-Parkside from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children, Youth, and Families, Office of Community Services. The campaign is unusual in that it is the first time the two Literacy Councils have teamed up and uses billboards to deliver the message. Kay Gregor said “We really hope to get the word out to as many people as possible in this way.”

The Racine Literacy Council’s next training session for tutors begins on Oct. 13.

For more information on becoming a volunteer tutor, contact the Kenosha Literacy Council at (262) 654-7323 or the Racine Literacy Council at (262) 632-9495 or log onto www.literacymagic.com and find links to both Councils.

Free marketing presentation at Golden Rondelle

Retail expert Bob Negen will present a dynamic program guaranteed to dramatically increase customer loyalty, foot traffic, and turbocharge sales. Called "Turbocharge Your Sales... Marketing Ideas Simplified," the presentation will be at the Golden Rondelle on Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Doors open at 5. There is no admission charge.

Negen’s presentation will include:

• How to get customers to shop more often
• Inexpensive ways to get new customers
• The secret to increasing foot traffic
• New ways to give a big boost to your average sale
• How to use email marketing and your website to increase sales to your current customers
• And many more tips to grow business without spending a fortune

Negen is an entrepreneur and co-author of “Marketing Your Retail Store in the Internet Age.” He founded a small chain of specialty toy and kite stores and helped create a yo-yo craze that generated over $2 million in yo-yo and accessory sales. He is a regular guest on Jim Blasingame’s nationally syndicated radio show, The Small Business Advocate.

This program is being presented as part of the Sustainable Community Series. Reservations can be made by calling the Golden Rondelle at 262-260-2154.

From 7 - 7:30 p.m. immediately following the presentation, a special retailers' forum will be held to further explore program concepts and share ideas with Negen.

'Music and More' mid-season concert Oct. 18 at First Presbyterian

Four accomplished musicians will lend their diverse talents to help First Presbyterian Church unveil their newly restored sanctuary and chancel remodel at a special mid-season “Music and More” concert on October 18th at 7 p.m.

Jazz saxophonist Jeremy Scott and the Higher Groove Band will be featured. At the young age of 26, Scott has an impressive list of accomplishments. He toured throughout the United States and Europe opening for Smokey Robinson and Tuck & Patty, played for President Bush, and has written and recorded his own music. He grew up in the Racine area and is an ordained minister at Greater Grace Temple in Racine.

Pianist, Alejandro Alumbreros, and award winning vocalist, Ami Bouterse will also perform. Alejandro has performed as both a piano soloist and accompanist for singers and instrumentalists in Europe, the United States and South America. Bouterse is a faculty member with the University of Wisconsin-Parkside music department.

Alvaro Garcia will play viola. Garcia is an Associate Professor of Music at UW-Parkside and Director of Orchestral Studies. He is the Music Director of the UW-Parkside Symphony and the UW-Parkside Community Orchestra.

Refreshments will be offered during the intermission. Proceeds from the concert will fund the church’s renovation projects. First Presbyterian’s Greek revival sanctuary was restored last spring and the chancel has been designed to provide a beautiful open space for performances of all types. Racine Symphony Orchestra will present its first concert of the 2008-2009 Season at First Presbyterian Church in November.

In keeping with the “Music & More” tradition of supporting local non-profit agencies,

Peace Learning Circles of Kenosha & Racine has been selected to receive a grant from “Music & More” funds at this concert.

First Presbyterian Church is located at 716 College Avenue in Racine, Wisconsin. Tickets for the October 18th concert are available in the church office in advance for $15. Tickets will be $20 at the door. For more information, contact Georgia Hall at (262) 633-7251.

Auditions for off-beat comedy at Theatre Guild

Auditions for the Racine Theatre Guild’s production of “Dearly Departed,” a drop-dead funny comedy by David Bottrell and Jessie Jones, are scheduled on Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 27 and 28, at 7 p.m. “Dearly Departed” is to be performed on four weekends, from Jan. 9-Feb. 1.

In the backwoods of the Bible Belt lives the ultimate dysfunctional family, the Turpins. After their patriarch drops dead, they attempt to pull together for a proper burial. The trouble is, their many and assorted problems — drinking, financial ruin, monster children, food addiction — keep overshadowing the solemn occasion.

There are roles for six women and four men, ranging in age from 20 to 70. Every role is open. Auditions consist of cold readings from the script. Scripts are available in advance to peruse in the lobby or to check out of the building with payment of a refundable deposit.

Those interested in auditioning (or volunteering for crew positions) should report at 7 p.m. on either Monday, Oct. 27, or Tuesday, Oct. 28. The Racine Theatre Guild is a nonprofit community (amateur) theatre located at 2519 Northwestern Ave. No appointment necessary.

For further information, call the box office at 262-633-4218, visit RTG on the web, or stop by any weekday from noon to 6 p.m.

Racine bookmobile out of service

The Racine Public Library’s Mobile Library is experiencing technical problems and will not be in service on Wednesday, Oct. 8. Depending on the nature of the problem and the length of time it takes to make repairs, the Mobile Library may be out of service additional days. Patrons who normally use the Mobile Library are advised to call the Adult Services Department, 262-636-9217, for an update before planning a visit to the Mobile Library.

Materials due at the Mobile Library while it is out of service will be renewed, and fines will not be charged.

UW-Parkside's Fall Fest Oct. 6-11

The University of Wisconsin-Parkside celebrates the change of seasons during Fall Fest 2008. Fall Fest features indoor and outdoor events including live performances of music and magic, tournaments of skill, a bonfire, comedy, the Fall Fest Fun Fair, and…Willy Wonka!

The entertainment and cultural events begin with the Fall Fest Kickoff Monday, Oct. 6 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Main Place of Wyllie Hall becomes a Wonka-like cornucopia of candy and giveaways (bring your sweet tooth!) and while you’re there learn all about snakes during the “Snakes Alive” show.

Speaking of Willy Wonka, there’s a student-only showing of the original “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” movie Tuesday, Oct. 7, at noon in the Student Center Cinema. Then at 8 p.m., the Warped Cast from Milwaukee's Times Cinema present a good old fashioned Willy Wonka stage show as the film plays in the background. This unique experience is free to the campus and community.

There’s midweek magic and music during Fall Fest. Oct. 8 at 7 p.m., Peter Boie, the “Magician for Non-Believers,” performs an award-winning act to amaze and astound even the most skeptical viewer. His free show is in the Student Center Cinema. Oct. 9, the Boys are back in town—the Bucketboys, that is. These guys use just about every kind of junk imaginable to create a show that combines music, laughter, crowd interaction, and positive life skills. The show starts at 9 p.m. on the Ranger Hall lawn and is followed by a bonfire.

There’s Wonka BINGO for fun and prizes Friday, Oct. 10, at 6 p.m. in Main Place. There’s Wonka's Wacky Fieldhouse of Fun for UW-Parkside students Friday with giant games of “Operation” and “Twister,” basketball, music, trike racing, free dog tags, a photo booth, and much more in the Petretti Fieldhouse from 8 p.m. to midnight. The Fall Fest Fun Fair is open to students and the community with plenty of things to do for kids and adults Saturday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Main Place. The festivities of Fall Fest close with gales of laughter thanks to nationally known comic Benji Brown on Saturday, Oct 11, at 8 p.m.

Plus, for those who like their Fall Fest fun physical, there’s a disc golf tournament Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 4 p.m., a Halo III Tournament Friday, Oct. 10 at 4 p.m. in The Den of the Student Center, and the Third Annual Dodgeball Tournament Saturday, Oct. 11, beginning at 1 p.m. in the Petretti Fieldhouse. Each team is required to provide a new or used sweatshirt to be donated to a local shelter.
For information and entry details on all Fall Fest 2008 events, call Tony Kwiatkowski at 262-595-2279.

UW-Parkside science night on Oct. 8

The University of Wisconsin-Parkside Science Night series continues Wednesday, Oct. 8, with a program dedicated to the simple but vital microorganism yeast. Titled "The Brewer, The Baker, The Biotech Maker: How Yeast Enriches Our Lives," the program features UW-Parkside Biology Professor Traci Lee.

The program centers on Saccharomyces cerevisiae, commonly known as brewer’s or baker’s yeast. This tiny but mighty agent has been used for thousands of years in the fermentation process of beer and wine and it puts the rise in bread dough. In more recent years, researchers have used this simple organism to understand how human cells work and for advanced biotechnology research.

The program is presented by UW-Parkside Professor Traci Lee, a molecular biologist who conducts genomic studies on yeast. She received her Ph.D. in oncology studying mammalian gene regulation and growth control at UW-Madison. As a postdoctoral fellow, she studied yeast gene regulation at a laboratory that performs large-scale yeast analyses.

Science Night’s presentation "The Brewer, The Baker, The Biotech Maker: How Yeast Enriches Our Lives" with Professor Traci Lee begins at 7 p.m. in room 103 of Greenquist Hall. High school and middle school students and faculty with an interest in math and science are encouraged to attend. Admission is free and refreshments are served.

For more information, call (262) 595-2487.

Cremer Foundation hosts program for African-American women on Oct. 16

RACINE – The Jane Cremer Foundation, Inc., is sponsoring a cancer education program for African-American women on Thursday, Oct. 16. This event will take place from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Masonic Center of Racine, 1012 Main Street. Dr. Tom Wood, Urologic Surgeon, Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints, will speak about the importance of early screenings and a healthy lifestyle as a way of detecting prostate cancer.

Statistics show there is a higher incidence of prostate cancer in African-American men than other ethnic groups. It is also true that because women make most of the important health care decisions for their families, it is important that women know more about this disease – the signs and symptoms, the tests and the treatments.

The evening’s program will include a Health Education Fair, during which exhibitors will provide resources and information to attendees to assist in managing their families’ health care needs.

Music will be provided by the Wayman’s Church Choirs, Corinne Reid Owens will be honored with a presentation from the Foundation and refreshments will be served.

For further information, or to pre-register for the program, call 632-2400 or visit the Foundation’s calendar of events on the web site: www.janecremerfoundation.org.

Marvin and the Dogs reunite at Ivanhoe's

They're b-a-a-c-k! Marvin and the Dogs, one of the hottest R&B bands in the Midwest from 1979 to 1985 is reappearing.

On Thursday, Oct. 9, from 8 p.m. to midnight, Marvin and the Dogs will perform at the Ivanhoe Pub, 231 Main St. There will be a $5 cover charge at the door.

Marvin and the Dogs cultivated a strong and dedicated following in Racine, Milwaukee, Door County and throughout Wisconsin, due to the unique chemistry of talent, experience and personality each member brought to the group.

In 1985 the band members went their separate ways to explore other musical and business opportunities, but friendships and die hard Dogs fans keep them together in spirit and occasional reunion shows. Marvin Dykhuis currently still plays his hot lead guitar in limited performances with Tish Hinojosa in Texas and on PBS’ “Austin City Limits” and NPR’s “Prairie Home Companion.”

With the loss of band member John Redmann in 2003, another longtime friend, Racine native Randy Glines, on bass guitar will be welcomed to the fold. Randy struck out for Austin with Marvin over 20 years ago, and is the regular bass player for the Cornell Hurd Band in Austin.

Mark Paffrath, who plays drums in the band, has pursued music in several successful duos, one of which was with fellow “Dog” Richard Holly, forming the duo Paffrath & Holly. They performed the regional scene from 1991, released a CD together and still do occasional shows. Paffrath performs regularly as a pop - folk solo in the region. Richard Holly remains performs locally and has also earned higher educational degrees in his “other” profession of electronics and computer science.

In the Summer of 2006 Marvin and the Dogs released their first full length recording “Live at George’s,” capturing the flavor and feel of their over-25 year history, a tribute to their friend John Redmann.

Choral Arts Society presents Nosferatu for Halloween

Image from the 1922 silent film, Nosferatu

The Choral Arts Society of Southeastern Wisconsin will premiere an original tone poem, inspired by, and presented with, the 1922 silent film Nosferatu. There will be three Halloween weekend performances at the historic Great Hall of the De Koven Center, 600 21st St.

The dates are: Friday, Oct. 31, at 8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 1 at 3 and 7 p.m. Costumes are permitted and “treats” will be available. Tickets are $15, $12 for seniors and $5 for students; they are available from the Choral Arts Society, 800 Center St., Room 122, Racine, (262) 634-3250, and also from Martha Merrell's Bookstore, 600 Main St.

Concert goers are invited to attend a Pre-Concert event at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., on Thursday, Oct. 23, from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

This specially commissioned work, composed and arranged by Karel Suchy, features choral singing, speaking, and acoustic and electronic instruments. The score draws on a wide variety of musical styles, including early modal music, modern classical, Appalachian hymnody and rock ballad. The Choral Arts Society will display its flexibility and musicality as it interprets this diverse composition. Emotional, dramatic and philosophical elements of the film are articulated through techniques such as the overlay of traditional Croft “Burial Sentences” on newly composed passages, the use of a folk “modified gypsy” scale, and the combination of live with concrete music (a montage of recorded natural sounds).

German director F. W. Murnau’s silent film Nosferatu was based on Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula. The first to deal with an occult subject, this expressionist film is distinguished by its introduction of innovative techniques, such as filming on location, and the use of montage. As film critic Roger Ebert wrote, “Nosferatu . . . doesn't scare us, but it haunts us. It shows not that vampires can jump out of shadows, but that evil can grow there, nourished on death.”

Local composer and Choral singer Karel Suchy, born in the Czech Republic in 1953, studied piano, organ and composition at Prague’s Jazz Conservatory, then earned his M.S. in Engineering. He led and composed for two avant-garde and modern jazz groups. Prior to his escape from communism in 1979, he won awards for composition, including the Prague Jazz Festival. He is founder and director of the musical group “Voices and Verses” and director of Music at Emmanuel Lutheran Church. The Society performed his arrangement of “Sweet Mary sings her Babe to Sleep” in 2004.

The Choral Arts Society of Southeastern Wisconsin has been performing under the direction of James Schatzman for 22 years. Over 60 singers comprise this volunteer community chorus, dedicated to performing master choral works and presenting musical outreach programs. Its repertoire has included major classical choral works, operettas, show tunes, gospel and original works by contemporary composers, some of them local.

This program was supported in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.

50 artists join Sixth Street Artwalk

In conjunction with Saturday's Party on the Pavement downtown, the galleries on Sixth Street are hosting the annual Sixth Street Artwalk.

This Artwalk is normally held in the spring, but because of the road project that tore up and closed much of Sixth Street for four months earlier in the year, it was shifted to the fall. More than 50 artists are participating, in categories ranging from wood carving to jewelry to photography. In addition, there will be demonstrations of glass blowing, woodcarving, chainsaw carving and raku.


Because the event is being being held during Party on the Pavement, more than 15,000 people are expected and the artists are excited to be a part of this festival. All participating artists have donated a piece of art for a silent auction to be held at the Racine Arts Council during the Artwalk.

The artists' booths will be in the center of Sixth Street from Wisconsin to Park Ave.

The Old Windmill, by Brad Jaeck

Several galleries will also host special artists, including Robert W. Anderson at The Cobblestone, John Krejci at Elements and Glenn Hickson at the Artist's Gallery. Photographic Design will host two professional photographers who will help people with their digital cameras.

In addition, there will be musicians strolling along the street providing music, restaurants will offer samples from their menus at outdoor tables and other groups will be offering hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream, etc.