Symphony benefit at Wingspread on April 10

A benefit evening for the Racine Symphony Orchestra will be held at Wingspread on April 10.

Celebrate the Symphony, an Evening at Wingspread, on Saturday, April 10, from 6:30 – 9 p.m., will include a cocktail hour followed by music. Cocktails with hors d'oeuvres, wines, desserts will be accompanied by RSO harpist Kelsey Erdahl, followed by a singer Becky Spice, featuring Broadway music and contemporary cabaret. Seating is limited; tickets are $100 per person. Call the RSO office at 636.9285 or email for more information.

The RSO’s final concert of the season will be Saturday, April 17, at First Presbyterian Church. Seventh and College, at 7:30 pm. That evening includes Mozart’s Overture to The Magic Flute, harpist, Kelsey Erdahl playing Ravel’s Introduction and Allegro joined by an ensemble of flute, clarinet and strings, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 in C minor. Tickets are available by calling the RSO or online.

Racine Fight Night VI Features Sherron 'Rob Roy' Leggett and Ryan 'Bones' Bixler

Bring your mouthpiece, this may get ugly. MMA fighter Nick Agallar, of Agallar Combative Systems in Racine, WI, showcases the ultimate fighting competition at Racine Civic Centre’s Memorial Hall on Saturday, February 27, 2010.

Kenosha’s own Sherron “Rob Roy” Leggett (left), with a win lose record of (17-5), will fight Ryan “Bones” Bixler (15-5)-the main event of the night. These fighters are among the best in the Midwest’s jaw-breaking local talent. The event features 15 additional opponents including Freddy Mendoza, Jordan Chambliss, Dylan Falduto, Ty Knuckles and Zack Browder.

The event takes place in Racine Civic Centre’s Memorial Hall located on 72 7th Street Racine, WI. Doors open at 6:30 PM. The fights begin at 7:30 PM. All ages welcome.

“This is our sixth time hosting Fight Night at the Racine Civic Centre and we cannot be more eager about this explosive MMA fighting event and the excitement it brings to Racine,” stated executive director Rik Edgar. “It is truly a knockout event that will bring you back for more.”

For match details including fighters and weight class, become a fan on our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/racinecc

Tickets available at the Festival Hall box office or Ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices range from $30 to $50. For more information, call the Racine Civic Centre at 262-636-9229.

RSO offers free concert March 23 at Grace Church

The Racine Symphony Orchestra continues a tradition with a bit of a twist. Every year the Orchestra performs for over 2000 fifth grade students from Racine County. The concert is Tuesday, March 23 at Grace Church, 3626 Hwy 31. The forty-five minute program, will be performed at 9:15 am, followed with the same program at 10:45 am. What is the twist in the tradition? This concert is FREE to anyone; all you need is a ticket and tickets are available by calling the RSO office, 636.9285 or going online at http://www.facebook.com/l/bdfb8;www.racinesymphony.org.

Kathy and Greg Berg share the spotlight

Singing the Star Spangled Banner opening the concert is Kathy Berg joined by Greg Berg narrating Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf. Bria Kaufman, the 2009 RSO Student Concerto Competition winner will play Mozart’s Symphonia Concertante for Winds 1st movement. Rounding out the concert is another piece by Mozart, Marriage of Figaro Overture. Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever conducted by a special fifth grade student wraps up the concert.

'One-Stop Home Show' debuts this weekend in Sturtevant

The area's newest Home Show debuts this weekend at Fountain Banquet Hall, 8505 Durand Ave., in Sturtevant.

The One-Stop Home Show on Saturday and Sunday  features more than 40 vendors with information on a wide-range of topics from electrical, flooring, heating and air conditioning to classes for dogs and a golf clinic. The show runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.

Charlie Roy, who organized the One-Stop Home Show, said it was unique because it's limited to one vendor per category. This allows the show to cover many areas instead of bogging visitors down with five or six vendors selling the same product, Roy said.

Categories include: Home inspections, home staging, landscaping design, finance/mortgage, moving and storage, painting, pest control, plumbing, real estate, waterproofing, windows and more.

In addition to meeting with vendors, the show features more than a dozen seminars on a variety of topics. Golf pro Jason Samuelian will be on hand Saturday at 1 p.m. for a clinic on how to improve your game, and Proper Paws University will offer dog-training classes at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Admission to the show is $3, but you can save a buck by following this link and printing out the coupon.Children under 12 years old get in free. A snack bar will be available.

The Fountain Banquet Hall is located next door to Farm and Fleet on Highway 11 in Sturtevant.

Seminars include:

Saturday
9:00 – Wireless computer networking for your home presented by Next Gen Systems
10:00 - Options for pavement repair around their Home or Property presented by Mud Tech
11:00 - Canine Education / Fun Stuff to do with your Dog presented by Proper Paws University
12:00 - Trends in Kitchen Remodeling presented by Nu Wood Cabinet
1:00 - How to Improve your golf game presented by Pro Golfer Jason Samuelian
2:00 - The Latest in Green in Carpet Cleaning presented by Nature’s Way Carpet Cleaning
3:00 - Today’s Real Estate Market presented by Re/max Newport Realty

Sunday
10:00 – An Explanation of Advance Funeral Arrangements and a Veteran’s Death Benefit, presented by Miller-Reesman Funeral Home & Cremation Service
11:00 – Home Staging – The Power of Presentation in Today’s Real Estate World presented by Leah Fritz, Perfect Place Home Staging LLC
12:00 - Trends in Kitchen Remodeling presented by Nu Wood Cabinet
1:00 - Canine Education / Fun Stuff to do with your Dog presented by Proper Paws University
2:00 - The Latest in Green in Carpet Cleaning presented by Nature’s Way Carpet Cleaning
2:00 - Building a Better Way presented by MyPenthouse.com

Categories and participating businesses include:

Asphalt/Concrete - Mud Tech
Basement Remodeling / Rec. Rooms - Steve’s Home Improvement
Bath Tub & Shower Remodeling - Bathfitters
Blinds/Closet - Budget Blinds
Cabinetry - Nu-Wood Cabinets
Carpet Cleaning - Nature Way’s Chem Dry
Chiropractor - Christopher Tomczak
Computer - Next Gen Systems
Coupons - Cash Coupon
Deck Cleaning - CCC & W Deck Cleaning & Powerwashing
Deck Construction - Screw Heads Decking
Deck Store - Screws & Decks
Dog Daycare, Training - Proper Paws University
Electrical Contractor - Sonderguaard Electric
Epoxy Flooring - D & D Specialty
Fitness / Athletic Club - Anytime Fitness
Flooring / Carpeting - Floortech Interiors - Flooring America
Funeral Home / Pre-Planning - Miller-Reesman Funeral & Cremation Service
Garage Doors - Jim’s Garage Door Service
Greeting Cards - Send Out Cards
Heating/Air Conditioning - Rodger’s Heating
Home Additions - MyPenthouse.com
Home Inspector - DCS Home Inspector
Home Stager / Interior Redesign Service - Perfect Place Home Staging LLC
Kitchen Tools - Pampered Chef
Landscaping - Green Machine
Mortgage Lender - AmeriCu Credit Union
Moving Company - Two Men and a Truck
Painting - A Coat or Two Painting
Pest Control - Ant’s Away Pest Control Service
Plumbing - Rubel Plumbing
Pools and Spas - Clear Water Pools & Spas
Real Estate / Realtor - Re/max - Newport Realty
Siding, Gutters & Doors - The Proven Professionals
Waterproofing - Ever-Dry Waterproofing
Window Cleaning - Chuck’s Window Cleaning
Windows - Replacement - Patrick Window’s

Racine Lutheran presents Snow White

Andrew Jansen, Sara Petersen, Alyssa Roberson and Lexi Majack

Racine Lutheran High School's drama department will present Tim Kelly's “Snow White” on Friday and Saturday, March 19 and 20, in the school's gym.

The world of the Brothers Grimm is brought to life in this adaptation. All the recognizable characters are included: Princess Snow White (Alyssa Roberson), the Prince (Andrew Jansen), the Huntsman (Andrew Rosenberg), and the evil Queen (Kylee Hugasian).

Though the Disney dwarf names are not used, the play includes the dwarfs Sarge (Diana Meyer), Gabby (Kaylin Boscha), Gloomy Gus (Marcus Vallejos), Ticklish (David Kueny), Sprightly (Courtney Mains), Snore (C. J. Majack), and Slowpoke (Aaron Gehne) -- all who forgot to stop growing! Wait until you meet the hilarious palace Cat (Kenny Meyer) and the Enchanted Vixen (Felicia Hess).

In this version, the Magic Mirror (Aleesha Davis) not only talks - it walks! Shiver and shake as the Queen transforms herself into various personalities -- Esmerelda (Sara Petersen), the young gypsy, and a withered Crone (Alexi Majack) -- so horrible even the Queen herself is terrified. The laughs, chases through the forest, and stage magic make this one of the most popular tales of all time.

Shows begin at 7 p.m. in the school gym at 251 Luedtke Ave., off Spring Street. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for senior citizens (55+) and high school students, and free for middle and grade school students. Tickets will be sold at the door. Call the office at 637-6538 for further information.

RUSD parent-teacher conferences on March 4, 5

Spring parent-teacher conferences will be held March 4 and 5 in most Racine Unified schools.

A three-hour early release for children in 4K through grade 5 will be Thursday, March 4. There will be no school for these students on Friday, March 5.

Middle schools (grades 6-8) will hold evening conferences on March 4 and have a two-hour early release on March 5.

High school conferences will be held the evening of March 4.

Parent and guardians of Walden III and REAL School students are asked to contact those schools for parent-teacher conference schedules.

Mobile Library immobilized

The Racine Public Library's Mobile Library will be out of service for the remainder of Thursday, Feb. 25, and all of Friday, Feb. 26.

Patrons who wish to use the Mobile Library on Saturday, Feb. 27, should contact the library on Friday afternoon to determine if service will be available.

Information about the unit's status will be on the library's website. Material due at the Mobile Library for the days out of service has been renewed. Questions and requests for information may be directed to 262.636.9217.

Gus's introduces fish fry, fish gyros for Lent

Gus's Fish Gyros

Gus's Restaurant, 2100 Douglas Ave., introduced two Lenten specials this week.

The restaurant is offering a three-piece beer-battered Cod fish fry with homemade french fries and coleslaw for $3.99. Fish by the pound is available for $7.99, fries by the pound for $3.99 and coleslaw by the pound for $3.99.

Gus's also introduced a Fish Gyros with beer-battered cod on a pita with tzatziki sauce, tomato and onion. The sandwich costs $4.99.

25 employers with 200 jobs coming to job fair

A job fair will be held on Tuesday, March 2, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 6400 Spring St.

Sponsored by Catholic Knights, St. Paul Church, and the Racine County Workforce Development Center, the event will give job seekers a chance to meet with 25 local employers with over 200 jobs. There will be workshops for writing resumes and strategies for finding employment.

"There are a wide range of jobs available from entry level through professional including health care, manufacturing, sales, assembly, engineering, customer service, and many other opportunities,” said Jane Kurylo of Workforce Development. Job seekers are encouraged to attend in the afternoon to avoid long lines.

Catholic Knights will be accepting donations of non-perishable food and cash for the Racine County Food Bank. For more information, go here or call 262-638-6312.

Stella Young birthday party is roast, Haiti fund-raiser

Stella Young packs a lot into a party.

This Sunday she's hosting a combination 70th birthday party, roast and fund-raiser.

It's called the 1st Royal Carpet Black Heritage Celebration, celebrating Black history, the "Heart and Humors Roasting of Stella" and a fund-raiser for Haiti housing relief.

The party will take place at Infusino's Banquet Hall, 3225 Rapids Drive, on Sunday, Feb. 28, from 3 to 8 p.m. The $25 admission includes $10 for the purchase of two Shelter Boxes for Haiti, each containing tents and living supplies for 10 people. RSVPs should be sent by Feb. 25 to adjuwa2540@aol.com, or call 262-865-0098.

Young, a former member of the Racine Unified School Board, will take office this summer as the first female African-American president of the Racine Founders Rotary Club. That club has already sent $6,000 to Haiti, to provide six shelter boxes for earthquake refugees.

The event invitation suggests the wearing of African attire, although this is not required. But all guests should come prepared to walk the "Royal Carpet."

A faculty member at Gateway Technical College, Young also was an original member of the board of Charter One, which founded the 21st Century Preparatory School, and director of the Greater Racine Coalition for Educational Excellence. Her daughter, Toni Davidson, is the first black woman attorney in Racine.

Manor Hall hosts International Women's Day event on March 7

“Equal Rights, Equal Opportunity, Progress for All” is this year’s theme for U.N.-sponsored International Women’s Day Sunday, March 7, 2010. Manor Hall, home of an alternative health care clinic, is hosting an open house from 1-3 p.m. in support of this annual observance. Manor Hall is located at 4344 Douglas Ave.

Scheduled activities confirm and celebrate the special role women play in promoting and enabling positive health behavior. Traditionally, women are their families’ first health care provider and are principally responsible for their families’ health decisions. They encourage and implement good nutritional practice. They manage their family’s health and well-being. Not least, they are responsible with maintaining their own individual physical and spiritual health.

Activities at the open house will include:

• Acupuncturists Christie Kern and Linda Stengel providing complimentary acupuncture treatments, offering participants an alternative to mainstream medicine for common health complaints.
• Discussions on preparing and choosing healthy food.
• Demonstrations of techniques to energize the body and spirit.
• Chair massages by massage therapist Matthew Hettenbach.

The clinic will also be accepting tax-deductible monetary donations to fund disaster relief efforts in Haiti on behalf of Acupuncturists Without Borders. AWB is sending teams of volunteer acupuncturists to provide stress relief to quake survivors, first responders, and other health care providers working in the field. Reports from Executive Director Diana Fried’s initial site visit last week stated that “U.S. doctors came into the tent, very curious...they said this had been the “sad tent” but all of a sudden people were smiling and even laughing. We treated 100 people that day, including nurses and staff of the hospital. They want us back. People asked if we could come back the next day. The hospital staff wants us to come and train them so they can carry on the work we began with their patients. We will do that.”

Volunteer Opportunities: Students 14 and older can volunteer at All Saints; Bowling cheerleaders needed

‘VOLUNTEEN’ PROGRAM STARTING SOON AT ALL SAINTS

Students who are at least 14 years old may volunteer in a number of areas this summer at Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare.  Schedules are flexible.  Informational meetings will be held on March 13, 15, and 18 at All Saints, 1320 Wisconsin Avenue.  Registration closes March 5.

 

RADD BOWLING CLUB SEEKS VOLUNTEER CHEERLEADERS

Recreational Activities for the Developmentally Disabled (RADD) at 3131 Taylor Ave. is organizing bowling leagues to meet twice monthly at Paradise Lanes.  The program is designed to assist adults with a range of developmental disabilities in building new relationships and increasing their independence in social and recreational settings.  Volunteers are needed to cheer on adult bowling club members.

JOB LAB VOLUNTEER

The Racine Public Library, 75 7th Street, is expanding its service to the unemployed by opening a Job Lab on the second floor.  Volunteers will assist job seekers with searching and applying for jobs, writing resumes, applying for benefits, and basic computer skills.  Training is provided.

YOUR TIME CAN BE A PRICELESS GIFT TO SOMEONE

The Senior Companion Program is constantly seeking volunteers who have a few hours each month to spend visiting or calling an older person who is homebound.  The Program’s mission is to enhance quality of life for older adults through friendship, socialization, and advocacy.  This is a Ministry of the Racine Dominican Sisters.  (Please call the Senior Companion office at 639-4100, ext. 1299.)

 

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE AT LINCOLN LUTHERAN

Lincoln Lutheran of Racine is seeking volunteers to help out with a variety of activities at the Becker Shoop Center, 6101 16th Street.  Opportunities include pet visits, Bible study group, care of the aviary, and helping write the quarterly newsletter.  Schedules are flexible, but volunteers should be 16 or older unless accompanies by a responsible adult. 

RACINE YOUTHFUL OFFENDER CORRECTIONAL FACILITY

Volunteers are needed to facilitate discussion, learning activities, and arts and crafts related to their curriculum. If you have any special talents, particularly artistic or writing abilities, this would be most helpful.  Volunteers will work at 1501 Albert St, Racine. Days and times to volunteer are flexible.  Background checks will be necessary.

If you are interested in any of the listed volunteer opportunities or others on file at the Volunteer Center of Racine County, call 262-886-9612 or toll free (Racine County only) at 1-800-201-9490 or email us at volunteer@volunteercenterofracine.org or visit our web site at www.volunteercenterofracine.org. Office hours are weekday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at 6216 Washington Avenue, Suite G.

Neighborhood Watch schedule in March

Racine Neighborhood Watch will hold several neighborhood meetings in March. Here are the meeting dates, times and locations: 

West Sixth Street Association Neighborhood Watch Meeting

Tuesday, March 2, 2010, 6 p.m.

West Sixth Street COP House

1522 West Sixth Street

Third District Concerned Citizens Neighborhood Watch Meeting

Monday, March 8, 2010, 6 p.m.

Salvation Army

1901 Washington Avenue

Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Watch Meeting

Saturday, March 13, 2010, 10 a.m.

Prospect Heights Community Living Center

2015 Prospect Street

Second District Action Coalition Neighborhood Watch Meeting

Monday, March 15, 2010, 6 p.m.

Wadewitz COP House

1750 Mead Street

First District Friends Neighborhood Watch Meeting

Thursday, March 18, 2010, 6 p.m.

Thelma Orr COP House

1146 Villa Street

Northside Neighborhood Alliance Neighborhood Watch

Tuesday, March 30, 2010, 6 p.m.

Quintanilla COP House

1140 Geneva Street

Olympia Brown Church presents concert with composer, guitarist, singer and activist Jim Scott

The Olympia Brown Unitarian Universalist Church is presenting a concert featuring composer, guitarist, singer and activist Jim Scott. The concert will be held on Saturday, March 6 at 7:30 pm at the church, 625 College Avenue. Tickets will be for sale at the door, and all proceeds will benefit the Olympia Brown Chalice Lighters Fund to assist church members in need. The event is open to the public and the cost of tickets is $5 for children and students, and $10 for adults.

For more than three decades, Jim Scott has created and performed music that celebrates peace, justice, and the earth. From his work with the Paul Winter Consort where he co-wrote the celebrated Missa Gaia/Earth Mass and many other pieces, Jim has gone on to create an extensive body of work, recording seven albums of original music, and creating “The Earth and Spirit Songbook,” an anthology of 110 songs of earth and peace by him and many contemporary songwriters.

Years of activism are reflected in Jim's work, and his songs, poetry and short stories address issues of ecology, justice and peace. Jim also assisted in creating the “Green Sanctuary” program and accompanying handbook for building an ecological and spiritual awareness in church congregations. He performs many benefit concerts and often appears at events, supporting environmental and peace causes with his music.

Jim has created songs, choral music, soundtracks for documentaries and the PBS series “Body and Soul,” among other efforts. His musical “The Tree and Me” has been produced in Jamestown, NY and Albion, MI. A line of Jim's choral compositions and his book of guitar technique, “All Scales in All Positions,” are published by the Hal Leonard Corporation.

Racine Raiders schedule tryout dates

The Racine Raiders will hold two open tryout dates for the 2010 season: on Saturday, March 13, at Carthage College, Kenosha, from 9 a.m. to noon, and on Saturday, April 10, at The Prairie School, 4050 Lighthouse Dr. from 9:00 a.m. to noon.

The tryouts are for all positions, including punters and kickers, and are free. Players should plan to practice indoors on a gym-style floor. Prospective players are asked to pre-register at the Racine Raiders recruitment website.

The Raiders have switched leagues for 2010. The team will now play in the Mid-States Football League (MSFL), which consists of 16 teams from Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana, minimizing travel and overnight road trips.

The Raiders are seven-time national champions. The team begins it's 57th season on Saturday, June 26, with a 7 p.m. preseason game against the McHenry County Pirates at Horlick Field. The Raiders open the regular season on Saturday, July 10, at 7 p.m. with a road game against the Roscoe Rush. The regular season home opener will take place on Saturday, July 17, at 7 p.m. against the Leyden Lions.

Wheaton offers billing clinics for patients with problems

Wheaton-Franciscan Health Care will hold billing clinics at All Saints next week for patients with problems or questions.

Coreen Dicus-Johnson, who is responsible for revenue operations, says, “We’ve heard the concerns of our patients and we want to respond face to face with assistance. Our team will be at All Saints to answer questions and resolve issues.”

The clinics will take place from Monday, March 1, through Friday, March 5, from 4 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, March 6, from 9 a.m. to 4 p..m., at Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints Cardiovascular Institute, 3803 Spring St.

Appointments are recommended by calling (414) 456-3200 or 1-866-960-9100 from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm. 20-minute appointments with billing associates are available. Patients should bring copies of their statements, explanation of benefits from their insurance carrier, and their insurance card.

Billing associates will be able to answer questions related only to bills for services provided at Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints or Wheaton Franciscan Medical Group.

Patients with questions can call Customer Service at 888-414-2509.

All RUSD schools closed on Friday, Feb. 26

All Racine Unified schools will be closed on Friday, Feb. 26, for Winter Break Day.

That date was originally scheduled as a contingent snow day for the first semester. But, because this school year’s first snow day didn't occur until the second semester, Winter Break Day will be a day with no classes. In addition, the snow day of Feb. 9 will not be rescheduled because RUSD schools have completed the necessary amount of state-required instructional time.

Celtic Night tickets available at Literacy Council

Irish singer and musician Derek Byrne

Tickets are now on sale for the 15th annual Celtic Night concert and dinner to be held on Friday, March 12, at the Historic Woman’s Club of Racine, 740 Lake Ave..

A Celtic dinner of corned beef and cabbage or baked cod, catered by Shillings Irish Pub, will be served from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Reserved tickets for the dinner and concert are $35 and need to be purchased by March 4. Tables of four, eight, and ten are available.

The night will begin with the “Piping in of the Haggis,” at 5:45 p.m. accompanied by a bagpiper. The concert begins at 7 p.m.; doors open at 5: 15 with a cash bar available. Balcony seating for the concert only is $20 in advance (or $25 at the door). There is limited seating.

Celtic Circle (formerly the Celtic Club) tickets are $75 each and include dinner, champagne, beverages, concert, and preferential seating.

“The entertainment line-up is one of the best ever,” said Kay Gregor, executive director of the Literacy Council: Irish singer and musician Derek Byrne, several Irish dancers, Irish Tenor Josh Holte, the Dublin O’Shea Irish Band, and the Scottish Celtic Nations Pipes and Drums.

Raffle tickets are available for the Celtic “Get-a-way” raffle. The grand prize is a two-night stay at the Inn at Irish Hollow in Galena, IL. First prize is a two-night stay at the Irish Cottage Boutique Hotel in Galena; second prize is one night at 52 Stafford Bed & Breakfast in Plymouth, WI, and third prize is four tickets to Irish Fest in Milwaukee from Aug. 19–22, 2010.Raffle tickets are $5, or three for $10. Ticket holders need not be present to win. Proceeds from the raffle and concert benefit the Racine Literacy Council’s Adult Tutoring Program.

For concert or raffle tickets, call 262-632-9495 or stop by the Racine Literacy Council at 734 Lake Avenue Monday – Thursday from 8: 30a.m. – 8 p.m.

Three performers set for BONK! on Feb. 27

Gracing the stage at this month's BONK! performance series will be a unique group of poets, musicians and writers: Musician Christina Colon, poet Richard Meier, and writer Katie O’Shaughnessy will perform Saturday, Feb. 27, from 6-8 p.m. at the Racine Arts Council, 316 Sixth St..

Christina Colon lives in Kenosha, and works in Vernon Hills, IL, as a massage therapist. Writing her own songs since she was 12, music has been a part of her life since childhood. Colon has played a variety of shows from Milwaukee to Chicago.

Richard Meier is the author of two books of poems, Terrain Vague, winner of the Verse Prize in 2000, and Shelley Gave Jane a Guitar, published in 2006. He is writer-in-residence at Carthage College, and lives in Madison and Chicago.

Katie O'Shaughnessy graduated from Carthage College in May and lives in Cary, IL. She is applying for graduate programs in creative writing while working at the Elgin Community College as a tutor, and at the Crystal Lake Health Food Store. Her short story, "Dust," won the 2008 Chapin-Tague Award for Fiction.

Local artists and performers are encouraged to consider sharing their talent/craft with the community via BONK! For more information on how to participate or to view video of past performances check the BONK! website or contact the Racine Public Library at 262.619.2571, Becky Spika or Nick Demske.

Family storytime opportunities at the Library

Families are invited to participate in a variety of free and entertaining storytime events hosted by the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St.

You’ll find the library’s storytellers on the road the last Saturday of each month as they perform a Saturday morning event for kids ages 3-10 and their families. On Saturday, Feb. 27, at 9:30 am , a storyteller will be present at Cup of Hope, 507 Sixth St., to entertain with an hour of stories and a simple craft. Enjoy a leisurely morning of quality family time and a cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate.

The library's preschool storytimes, held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m., continue through March 10. Children from birth to age 5 may attend these 30-minute events. The programs feature fingerplays, stories, music and more designed to develop age-appropriate early literacy skills. Children who are able to sit independently in storytime may attend the Preschool program. Children who prefer to be accompanied by an adult may attend the Infant & Toddler program. Both programs are held simultaneously at 10 a.m.

New to the library's preschool storytime schedule is the addition of Educational Open Play days. Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10:30-12:30 and Fridays from 11 am-1 pm, the library will turn its storytelling room into an educational exploration area with a variety of educational toys and learning aids available. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Play days are held during the storytime season only.

The library is also offering an After-School Storytime with stories and crafts geared to kids ages 3-10. The next event in this series will be Tuesday, Feb. 23, from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Storyteller Keiko Skow shares her favorite stories and her imaginative craft ideas with those in attendance.

School age children in grades 1-5 are invited to spend 15 minutes reading to one of the library’s specially-trained listening dogs in the Ruff Readers Program. These canine friends visit the library after school several days a week. This is a fun way for kids to practice reading to a non-judgmental and gentle listener. Time slots available on a first-come/first-served basis. Call the library at 262.636.9245 for days and times, or to reserve a reading spot.

Kids ages 5-10 and their families are also invited to attend Family Fun Night. These hour-long events, held approximately once a month, explore a variety of topics through stories, games, activities and crafts. The next event will be Thursday, March 25, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. with a special presentation about Laura Ingalls Wilder and her pioneer heritage. Local educator Lynn Urban will share stories, artifacts and activities about the Wilder/Ingalls families. Dressed in period costume and toting her "sack of surprises," Lynn recounts the stories and history of this beloved author of the "Little House" books.

All programs are free and open to the public; no registration is necessary. For more information, contact the Youth Services Dept. at 262.636.9245 or visit the library's website.

Carthage students exhibit at Northern Lights Gallery

Northern Lights Gallery will host the opening reception for a Carthage College student art exhibition on Saturday, Feb. 27, from 6-9 p.m.

“Carthage Stars” will include the works of four 2-D artists, Jen Nichols, Sarah Starling, Katie Ramirez and Stacey Rosenwinkel. Stacey, a studio arts major, worked as an intern at the gallery and is coordinator of the exhibition.

Music major Sean Knudson will provide classical music during the opening reception.

The exhibit will be displayed at Northern Lights Gallery through March 7. For further information, go online or call (262) 635-0580.

Folk dance and music benefit scheduled

“Our Village Our Globe,” a concert of folk dance and music, will be presented by Giving withJoy! on Saturday, April 24, at 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 716 College Ave.

Racine’s own international folk dance group “Dancers without Borders” perform dances from the Africa, North America, South America, Asia and Europe. Mark Paffrath will premiere a new work written for this event as well as "Imagine," written by John Lennon. Ben Johnston-Krase will perform audience participation African drumming music.

School supplies for the children of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, will be collected; they will be distributed through the Haiti Foundation of Hope whose mission is to address the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the people of Haiti.

Beneficiaries from ticket sales will be: ImaginAction, an organization started by Pete Wilson whose mission is to create, guide and support innovative and alternative learning opportunities for youth and The Village Garden Project started by local organizations collaborating on a community garden in the inner city to help educate and sustain local residents.

Giving withJoy! is an organization started by Kathi Wilson in 2007; its mission is building peace, hand to hand, heart to heart. Funds are raised through community projects and distributed to local and global areas of need.

A reception will follow the musical presentation. Tickets are $10; children under 12 admitted free. For tickets contact: First Presbyterian Church at 632-1686.

Sand Tray Theatre training at Lake House

Lake House Health & Learning Center announces its schedule for the Midwest Training Series -- now in its fifth year -- for health professionals, educators and others who want to learn action methods, safe role play and other non-traditional therapies and methods.

The first program will be Sand Tray Theatre, presented by Karen Carnabucci, LCSW, a nationally board-certified master trainer in psychodrama, sociometry and group psychotherapy, from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 10, at Lake House Center, 932 Lake Ave. Continuing education credits for social workers will be provided through the University of Wisconsin-Parkside and hours will also be given to addiction counselors and licensed professional counselors. Lake House is Wisconsin's only training center in psychodrama and other action methods.

The use of a sand tray and miniatures offers an engaging way to work with children, teens, adults, couples and groups. Sand tray can be used to clarify and resolve the conflicting energies, motivations, values, and voices that are often contribute to a sense of “stuckness.” It also engages people who may have difficulty in talking about their problems or life issues. Attendees will learn:

• What is needed to add sand tray to your work repertoire.
• How to introduce sand tray processes to the people you work with.
• The use of the sand tray for self disclosure, identifying problems and problem solving.
• Options for the use of the sand tray for other explorations with other creative arts.

Three continuing education hours for social workers, addictions counselors and certified counselors, plus psychodrama hours. Tuition is $35. Handouts and beverages will be provided. For more information, go online or call (262) 633-2645.

Jazz concert at Horlick HS on Feb. 18

Don't let the winter weather fool you. Some of the hottest jazz around will be at Horlick High's Joseph L. Mooney Theater, 2119 Rapids Drive, on Thursday, Feb. 18.

Russ Johnson, a Horlick alum, returns as a featured trumpet soloist with the Jazz I and Jazz II bands directed by Doug Johnson. Johnson has been become a nationally known trumpet player based in New York City. He returned here in January as head of Jazz Studies at UW-Parkside.

Also appearing will be the Jerstad-Agerholm Middle School Jazz Band directed by Dave Kapralian and the Gilmore Middle School Jazz Band directed by Josh Sherman. The show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the door at $3 for adults, $2 for students and $1 for senior citizens.

Meet Me in St. Louis at Case HS Feb. 19-21

Case High School presents the musical "Meet Me in St. Louis" Friday through Sunday, Feb. 19-21.

Set in 1904 in St. Louis, the musical follows the Smith family as they struggle with leaving their home on the eve of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition World's Fair. Everyone learns the importance of family as the drama unfolds.

"Meet Me in St. Louis" is remembered for such songs as The Trolley Song, The Boy Next Door and Have Yourself a Merry Little
Christmas.

Rob Kroes, a UW-Stevens Point student who is student teaching at Case, directs this production. Elizabeth Steege is Case's vocal music director.

Performances are at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Case theater, 7345 Washington Ave. Tickets are available at the door at $8 for adults and $6 for students and senior citizens.

Somers firefighters to host spaghetti dinner

The Somers Fire and Rescue Association will hold a spaghetti dinner from 4 to 7 p.m., Saturday, March 6, at Fire Station No. 1, 7511 12th Street in Downtown Somers (one mile west of Highway 31 on Highway E).

The cost is $7 per person for all-you-can-eat spaghetti and sausage and garlic bread. Soda or coffee comes with the meal. Homemade desserts are also included and drawings will be held during the event. The price is $5 for children 12 and under.

Carry-outs will be available. Parking is available at the Somers Town Hall.

Proceeds will aid the association’s efforts to support the Somers Fire and Rescue Department, the Wisconsin Alliance For Fire Safety and other charitable endeavors.

Why Girls Thrive author will speak here

Dr. JoAnn Deak, an authority on the differences between males and females, especially as it relates to the development of children, will make two presentations here on Tuesday, March 9.

Deak is described as an outstanding and often humorous speaker on an often tough and sensitive topic. Audiences will come away with insight as to why our children behave the way they do and steps we can take help them as they grow up. Dr. Deak is the author of “Why Girls Thrive” and “Girls will be Girls.”

The public is invited to attend one or both of her appearances. Separate registrations are required, by March 1.

Males and Females: Significant Differences from the Neck Up: 11:30 a.m.; networking, noon - 1:30 lunch and presentation at Meadowbrook Country Club, 2149 N. Green Bay Road. Cost is $20; Reservations available online here. This presentation addresses both differences in childhood and insight into the differences between men and women as adults, based on scientific discoveries.

Ingredients of Self Esteem: 6 p.m. appetizers; 7 p.m. program at the Racine Theatre Guild, 2519 Northwestern Ave. Cost: $10, program only; $15 for appetizers and program. Reservations by check payable to AAUW Racine, P.O. Box 085239, Racine WI 53408. Information available from Judy VanMatre 637-6070.

Dr. Deak will also speak on Friends and Foes: Wonder and Woes on Wednesday, March 10, at 5:30 p.m. at the TL Conference Center, 3400 S. 43rd St., Milwaukee.

That session, hosted by the Alverno College Research Center for Women and Girls, will focus on relational aggression. Discover ways to help girls minimize the pain of bullying and mean behavior.

To make reservations, send name, title and organization to Cindy Buser before Monday, March 8.

Dr. Deak's appearances here are a collaboration between AAUW Racine, The Johnson Foundation at Wingspread, Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast and TEMPO Racine.

Franksville church sets murder mystery dinner

Franksville United Methodist Church, 10402 Northwestern Ave., will host a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater on Friday, Feb. 26.

The theme will be Murder of the Millionaire at the Mystery Mansion.

Dinner will be at 6 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person and may be purchased at the church office. Proceeds from the dinner will help fund upcoming Mission Trips. Questions should be directed to the church office at 262-886-2651.

Burlington Progressives to discuss elections

The Burlington Area Progressives will present a program on Thursday, Feb. 18, with Attys. Eugene Gasiorkiewicz and Tim Daley speaking on "The Ethics of Corporate Entitlement in U.S. Elections." Psychologist Dr. David Nichols, Ph.D. will speak about "The Electorate's Feelings of Disenfranchisement and Suppression of the Vote."

The event will take place at the CATHE Center, 125 East State St. in Burlington, at 7 p.m.

The public is invited; admission is free but donations are accepted to defray costs.

Library Friends set annual book sale March 25-27

The Friends of the Racine Public Library will hold their semi-annual book sale Thursday, March 25, through Saturday, March 27.

On Thursday, there will be a preview for Friends of the Racine Public Library members only, from 2 to 5 p.m. The hours for the public, on Friday and Saturday, will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The sale will be held at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St. All proceeds are used to support the library's programs and collections.

Donations of materials for the sale may be dropped off at the library prior to the sale, when the library is open. There is a special need for nonfiction books.

SOAR will accept applications on Feb. 20

Students who wish to have a private school education but can’t afford one may have the opportunity next year to attend one of 10 private schools in the SOAR of Racine network that are committed to welcoming children in poverty and helping them to be academically successful.

SOAR – Scholarships, Opportunities & Access in Racine – will begin accepting applications for the program at 9 a.m. through 3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 20, in the Great Hall at DeKoven Center, 600-21st St. Applications made after that day must be done by appointment.

Application packets are available at the SOAR office, 600-21st St.; Gateway Technical College Main Building, 1001 S. Main St.; participating schools and the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St.

Application must be made in person and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Spanish translators will be available on Feb. 20.

The primary qualification for SOAR eligibility is to be living in poverty. Students who qualify for the federal free and reduced lunch program are eligible to apply. SOAR families sign an agreement requiring family participation and communication with SOAR and the school of their choice and expects the student to maintain a 2.0 grade-point average and appropriate behavior.

The 10 participating SOAR schools – seven grade schools and three high schools – have all made a commitment to welcome students in poverty and to work with SOAR and the families to support the students’ progress. Schools will provide teacher- supervised study time after school to assist SOAR students.

The 10 schools are: John Paul II Academy, St. Edward School, St. John’s Lutheran School, St. Joseph Catholic School, St. Lucy Parish School, Trinity Lutheran School, Wisconsin Lutheran School, Racine Lutheran High School, Shoreland Lutheran High School, and St. Catherine’s High School. All are faith-based schools.

SOAR was created to expand the educational opportunities for Racine children living in poverty. This year, more than 12,000 students attending Racine public schools are eligible for the federal free and reduced lunch program and are living in poverty. As a group, they are performing far below their grade levels. According to standardized test scores, no more than 60% of the students in poverty at any grade level are academically proficient in that grade in reading or math. Only six of 10 children in poverty tend to graduate from high school. Of those who do graduate, area technical schools and universities say many are ill-prepared for post-secondary education and are enrolled in remedial or preparatory classes.

SOAR launched last August with three goals for this first year:

-- to build a network of SOAR schools and a way to support the success of SOAR children;
-- to raise $300,000 for scholarships, half for 2010 and the other half for the following year to support roughly 15 $5,000 high school scholarships and about 30 $2,500 elementary school scholarships;
-- to place students from the former San Juan Diego Middle School in private schools of their choice for the 2009-10 school year.

To date, SOAR has the network in place – 10 private schools and an Education Advisory Board to support them and SOAR students, as well as a small group of mentors working after school with students. SOAR has placed 10 students from San Juan Diego into three private schools. The students are doing well, and on average have a 2.74 grade-point average, equivalent to a B-.

SOAR is in raising money for next year's scholarships. The money is expected to come from private, individual donations and granting organizations.

People interested in learning more about SOAR may contact Executive Director Laura Sumner Coon at (262) 498-9425. People interested in contributing to SOAR may send contribution to: SOAR, PO Box 1782, Racine WI 53401.

Free childs' car seat inspection scheduled

Did you know that, according to Safe Kids Worldwide, 4 out of 5 car seats are installed incorrectly? To reduce that number, the Safe Kids Coalition of Kenosha and Racine will be holding a free car seat inspection to educate families on the proper use of car seats.

The event will be held at the Mount Pleasant Police Department, 6200 Durand Ave., on Thursday, Feb. 18, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. It is free and open to the public.

Anyone who is responsible for transporting children is welcome to come. Because vehicle and car seat technology is always changing, caregivers are encouraged to get their car seats checked if they are using the same seat for another child, it has been over a year since its last inspection, or if they've changed vehicles. Additionally, Wisconsin law now requires that all children under the age of 8 are in a car seat or booster appropriate for their age and size. Questions about these or other transportation issues can be addressed at this event.

Certified technicians will be on hand to help families install their seats, provide advice on what seats are appropriate for their children, and answer questions about transportation safety. Each car seat check will take approximately 20 minutes and it is preferred that the children attend to ensure a proper fit.

If you are unable to attend the car seat check, please call Safe Kids Kenosha Racine at 262-687-3366 to schedule a check at another time or to receive a list of area technicians.

Girls basketball tryouts -- for ages 10 and under

Open tryouts for an AAU/Travelling girls basketball team, for girls 10 years old and under, will take place on Feb. 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Humble Park Community Center, 2200 Blaine Ave.

For additional information, contact Coach E.J. Trevino at 262-994-0600 or Coach Tim Conley at 262-412-5298

Racine Christian students score well on Iowa Tests

8th graders conduct science experiment with teacher Tim Bratt

Racine Christian School students recently showed excellent results on the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills, with average, scores about two years ahead of their actual grade level. Eighth graders averaged three years ahead of grade level.

The Iowa Tests of Basic Skills are standardized across the U.S., testing K–12 students on subjects including mathematics and language arts. “Historically, Racine Christian students score well on Iowa Tests,” said Principal Dave VanSwol. “For 8th graders, this increases their confidence and ability to succeed in high school. In fact, principals from area high schools tell us our students come to them exceptionally well prepared."

Racine Christian School will hold an open house on Tuesday, Feb. 23, from 6 – 7:30 p.m. Families may tour the facility, meet teachers and sign up for the March 3 Kindergarten Roundup placement testing. Racine Christian is located at 912 Virginia St. Further information is available at 262/634-0961 or online.

Davina & the Vagabonds at Jean's Jazz Feb. 18

Singer-pianist Davina Sowers

A rollicking New Orleans-style quintet with powerful vocals, Davina & the Vagabonds, headlines the second Jean’s Jazz concert at the Racine Theatre Guild on Thursday, Feb. 18.

Based in the Twin Cities, Davina & the Vagabonds play lively music — jazz, blues, cabaret, soul and rock — with a retro vibe and an emphasis on fun. The band’s sassy originals and sly covers make you want to dance. Singer-pianist Davina Sowers, formerly of Key West, has a slurring, purring Southern voice that’s been described as part Etta James, part Bonnie Raitt, and a little Amy Winehouse. Davina’s vocals and staccato piano lines are complemented by dueling horns (trumpet and trombone), a standup bayou bass and rat-a-tatting drums.

Anne Morse-Hambrock, left, will warm up the stage with her jazz harp starting at 7 p.m. She performs classical and jazz throughout the Midwest, specializing in new and avant-garde music.

A night of Jean’s Jazz is a treat for all the senses. Two sizzling sets are separated by a half-hour break to enjoy complimentary gourmet desserts and coffee provided by Tricia’s Tasty Pastries and Mocha Lisa.

The third and final performance in Jean’s Jazz Series 2010 will take place on Saturday, April 3, when Alan Gresik’s Swing Shift Orchestra entertains with an old-time radio show.

Individual tickets for Feb. 18 and April 3 are available at $14 each for adults, $12 for seniors (62 and over), and just $5 for students (21 and under). Regular box office hours at the Racine Theatre Guild are 12 to 6 p.m. on weekdays. Tickets may be purchased by phone (262-633-4218) or online.

Riotous comedy, A Bad Year for Tomatoes, at RTG

Mike Shelby and Emily Mueller

Up next at the Racine Theatre Guild, a fabulously successful TV actress decides to chuck it all for the peace and quiet of a small town, but nosy neighbors didn’t figure into her plan. “A Bad Year for Tomatoes,” an uproarious comedy by John Patrick, plays weekends from March 5-21 at the RTG, 2519 Northwestern Ave.

Fed up with the demands of her career, the famous Myra Marlowe (Emily Mueller) leases a house in tiny Beaver Haven to get away from it all, grow tomatoes, and write her autobiography. She is able to ignore the offers pressed on her by her long-time agent (Mike Shelby), but dealing with the meddlesome, omnipresent neighbors (Karen Reisenauer, Nancy Moldenhauer, Barb Tylla) is another matter. To shoo them away and gain some privacy, Myra invents a mad, homicidal sister who is kept locked in an upstairs room, escaping occasionally just long enough to scare off uninvited visitors.

Complications ensue when the dimwitted local handyman (Clay Johnson) takes a liking to “Sister Sadie” (really Myra in disguise) and some of the ladies decide it’s their Christian duty to save her tortured soul. In desperation, Myra announces that her sibling has suddenly left town. This makes matters even worse, leading to suspicions of foul play and bringing the sheriff (Ricardo Morales) to her door. Myra must now reveal the truth and her identity--or go to jail for killing someone who never existed!

John Patrick was both commercially successful and a highly regarded writer. His first play, “Hell Freezes Over,” was directed by Joshua Logan. His second play, “The Willow and I,” starred Gregory Peck. He went on to write “The Hasty Heart” and “The Curious Savage,” but it was his stage adaptation of Vern J. Sneider’s novel “The Teahouse of the August Moon” that marked the height of his fame, winning both the Pulitzer Prize (1954) and Tony Award for drama. He adapted it for the screen and spent much of the rest of his career writing screenplays, including “Three Coins in the Fountain,” “Love is a Many-Splendored Thing,” “High Society,” “Some Came Running,” “The World of Suzie Wong” and “Everybody Loves Opal.”

Directing this production for the Racine Theatre Guild is Managing/Artistic Director Doug Instenes. Eric Guttenberg heads the volunteer crew as production stage manager. The set design is by Stephen Krempasky.

Performances of “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” are scheduled on weekends from March 5-21. Each weekend there are shows at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings and at 2 p.m. on Sunday afternoon. There are also performances at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 13; at 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 14; at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 18; and at 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 20.

The ticket price is $16 for 7:30 p.m. shows and $14 for all others. Discounts are available for seniors, subscribers, students and groups. Box office hours are 12 to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 90 minutes prior to curtain through intermission at performances. For reservations, call 262-633-4218 or order online.

Clay Johnson, Karen Reisenauer, Ricardo Morales, Barb Tylla, Nancy Moldenhauer

3-hour early release for Unified elementary kids Friday

Racine Unified elementary schools will release students three hours early on Friday, to provide time for teachers' professional development.

Families with students in half-day programs should contact the individual sites to confirm starting and ending times.

The early release does not include Janes Year-Round Elementary School. That school will have its next three-hour early release on June 11.

For $35, the Horlick Choir will sing to your Valentine

Horlick High School Choir members will be making appearances throughout Racine on Friday and Saturday to deliver singing Valentines.

The gifts of song are a fund-raiser for the group's St. Louis choir concert tour. The $35 delivery fee includes one of seven songs and a rose to the recipient. For details, contact Ellen Christensen at 262-619-4322.

YPR hosting Dodge Ball Tourney on March 12

It's time to get rowdy! Back by popular demand, Young Professionals of Racine's Dodge Ball Tournament is an evening of fun, pizza and sweatbands. Build your own team and register ASAP!

The event is Thurday, March 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Razor Sharp Fitness, 7300 Washington Ave.

To enter, put together a co-ed team (at least two members of each sex) with 6-10 players per team.

The cost is $10 for members and $25 for non-members. Fee includes entry fee, food, sports drinks, a team photo and, of course, prizes.

Click here to register.

Questions? Email Krystyna@ypracine.org

YPR's 5:05 Club is Feb. 18 at the Corner House

Learn about Young Professionals of Racine, or connect and reconnect with YPR, at the 5:05 Club held Feb. 18 at the Corner House, 1521 Washington Ave.

The 5:05 Club helps you make quick connections around the community that can lead to long-term mutual benefit. Come anytime after 5:05 p.m. Even if you can't stay long on any given evening, it is always worth a visit! No registration required.

Lunch & Learn: Succeeding in a Multi-Generational Workplace

There are four distinct generations working side by side in today's workplace, each with its own viewpoint, values and communication style. Learn how to best work with and communicate to each one at Young Professionals of Racine's "Lunch & Learn" series on Feb. 24 from noon to 1 pm.

The lunch is free for YPR members and $10 for non-members. It will be held at Educator's Credit Union, 1400 Newman Road, on the third floor of the Education Building. 

Click here to register.

YPR hosts coffee and tea tasting at Cup of Hope on Feb. 25

Young Professionals of Racine is hosting a coffee and tea tasting at Cup of Hope, 507 6th Street, on Thursday, Feb. 25 at 7:30 a.m.

The event, titled "Awaken Your Consciousness: Coffee and Tea Tasting at Cup of Hope," starts with a tasting from 7:30-8 a.m. followed by a presentation from 8-8:30 a.m.

The event is free for YPR members and $5 for non-members. Click here to register.

Jefferson Lighthouse parent orientation postponed

Tuesday evening's parent orientation session at Jefferson Lighthouse School, 1722 W. Sixth St., has been rescheduled for 7 p.m. next Wednesday, Feb. 17.

Regency Mall will close early today

Regency Mall stores will close at 5 p.m. today, due to the snowstorm. Sears will be open later; its closing time is yet to be determined.

Plans call for a normal opening on Wednesday, Feb. 10.

Fresh will be screened here by Eat Right Racine

Eat Right, Racine will present a showing of the movie, “Fresh - New Thinking About What We’re Eating,” by Sofia Joanes on Tuesday, March 2, at 7 p.m. at Gifford Elementary School, 8332 Northwestern Ave. (Hwy K).

Joanes, a New York-based filmmaker, spent two years making the movie, talking to advocates from the real food movement. She says industrialized food production poses a threat to food safety and community health.

The screening will be followed by speaker Will Allen of Milwaukee's Growing Power, recently named one of the "100 History-Makers in the Making," who is featured in the documentary. (He spoke here last year; see our story here.)

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door. They can be purchased at Milaeger’s, Funky Hannah’s, Mocha Lisa’s, Wilson’s Tea, Sheepish, Circa Celeste Cafe, Racine Montessori School, The Vine and more.

For more information, and tickets, contact Eat Right, Racine. Proceeds will benefit Eat Right, Racine.

Watch the trailer, here:

WGTD radio offers new versions of classic sitcoms

The award-winning 91.1 Players will begin its sixth season with a production of newly scripted radio theater versions of three classic TV sitcoms – “I Love Lucy,” “All in the Family” and “Golden Girls.”

The 11:15 a.m. Feb. 13 production can be heard live on WGTD, 91.1 FM. It will be aired simultaneously on the internet.

Steve Brown and Mike Ullstrup teamed up to write a script featuring all the old familiar characters. “We have taken three of TV’s greatest comedies and brought them to life for our radio audience,” says Ullstrup.

“All in the Family” brings back Archie Bunker but puts him in a 2010 setting -- the ever politically-incorrect Archie has to come to grips with a Barack Obama in the White House. He and son-in-law, Michael – otherwise known as “Meathead” – have something new to argue about while Edith and Gloria try to keep peace in the household.

“I Love Lucy” will feature Lucy Ricardo scheming and plotting again, aided and abetted by her comic sidekick, Ethel Mertz. “The Golden Girls” episode will have all of the usual banter by Dorothy, Rose, Blanche and Dorothy's tart-tongued mother, Sophia.

Starring are Viki Dumez as Lucy and Ryan Farrell as Ricky Ricardo, with neighbors, Ethel and Fred Mertz played by Julie Burton and Don Jensen. Cameron Spencer is Archie Bunker, with Dumez as Edith, Kathy Zuhlke as Gloria, Farrell as Michael, Thom Powers as George Jefferson and Burton as Louise Jefferson.

The Golden Girls are Burton as Dorothy, Rene Thomas as Blanche, Zuhlke as Rose and DuMez as Sophia. Joining them is Terry Lawler as a visiting FBI agent. Lawler also directs the trio of comedy hits.

The show will be broadcast live from the main stage at Kenosha Expo 2010 at the Petretti Fieldhouse on the UW-Parkside campus. The program is sponsored by the Kenosha Area Chamber which is hosting the annual Kenosha Expo. Those attending the Expo are invited to be in the audience for the broadcast.

Racine Christian School auction is Feb. 26

Racine Christian School will hold its annual auction and spaghetti dinner on Friday, Feb. 26.

Dinner will be served from 5 – 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for children 4-12, and free for children under 4. Home-made desserts will be sold separately. Carryouts are available.

A silent Auction will be held from 5 – 6:30 p.m., with a voice auction beginning at 6:45 p.m. Auction items include Disney World and airline tickets; also tickets to the Shedd Aquarium, Racine Theater, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Brewers, Bucks, Wave and Admirals. Many restaurant, salon, and specialty gift certificates are available, including a kayak adventure.

Proceeds fund curriculum and building improvements. Racine Christian School offers Christian education for Kindergarten - 8th grade. Racine Christian is located at 912 Virginia St. Further information is available from the school at 262/634-0961 or its website.

Racine Christian School open house Feb. 23

Racine Christian School will hold an open house for new families on Tuesday, Feb. 23, from 6-7:30 p.m. Families may tour the facility, meet the teachers and enjoy story time plus an art project and snacks. Racine Christian is located at 912 Virginia St., at the corner of Ohio Street and Kinzie Avenue.

The school offers Christian education for Kindergarten through 8th graders. In standardized testing, students on average score several years beyond their actual grade level. Classes are smaller, with discipline and dedicated teachers. More than 40 different Christian churches are represented by school’s families.

Racine Christian employs a “whole child” philosophy toward education. “We use a triangle approach, with the child in the center, and home, school, and church at points surrounding him,” says Principal Dave VanSwol. “All points work together in supporting a child’s development and success - including moral character, education, and behavior.”

The open house will allow families to sign up for Kindergarten Roundup March 3, the date of placement testing for kindergarten readiness. Further information is available from Dave VanSwol at 262/634-0961. The school’s website is RacineChristianSchool.com.

Mitchell Lofts artists hold Valentine's Day show

Portrait by Thomas Pawzun

The Artists of Mitchell Wagon Factory Lofts open their year of gallery shows with a tribute to the Valentine's Day holiday on Sunday, Feb. 14, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visitors will see an array of art including handmade Valentines created by resident children from a workshop held earlier in the month and videos of funny romantic situations. The building's two main galleries will show art from resident artists, including newcomers to the building Laura Bernett (that her 'Reflective Spirit,' right) and Thomas Pawzun. Bernett, from Brookfield, works in a variety of media; her son, Michael, is concentrating on acrylics. Pawzun specializes in portrait art.

Other artists who will be exhibiting include Deborah Grieve, a photographer who recently returned with new photos of New Orleans, and Nate Mortensen, with watercolor and ink images.

Several new craftsmen exhibiting include Shana Henderson, creator of jewelry, and Amanda Knepper, who makes soaps and clothing accessories. The Lofts' new gallery gift shop will feature Valentine candies from the Phoenix Chocolate Shoppe, 1439 North Main St., and refreshments. The first 20 visitors will receive a free gift.

The Mitchell Wagon Factory Lofts are located at 815 8th St. on the corner of 8th and Washington, Parking is available in the city lot at the corner of 8th and Center.

Networking meeting for women professionals

Lake House Health & Learning Center, 932 Lake Ave., will host a networking meeting for women professionals from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 17.

Women of all occupations are welcome to meet and mingle, share business cards, business information and refreshments. No fee; reservations are encouraged with Karen Carnabucci at (262) 633-2645; for directions or more information, go here.

Session on 'winter blues' at Lake House

Psychotherapist Karen Carnabucci will present on "Seasonal Affective Disorder" from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, at Lake House Health & Learning Center, 932 Lake Ave.

Seasonal Affective Disorder -- sometimes called winter blues -- is depression that responds well to natural treatment. Learn how you can use simple means to regain your glow, and get the opportunity to sit in front of a full-spectrum light, which can be helpful with SAD.

SAD was first noted before 1845, but was not officially named until the early 1980s. As sunlight has affected the seasonal activities of animals such as reproductive cycles and hibernation), SAD may be an effect of this seasonal light variation in humans. Symptoms include excessive eating and sleeping, weight gain, a craving for sugary and/or starchy foods.

Attendess are welcome to bring their own lunch; beverages will be provided. Free, but donations to the Racine Food Bank are welcome. Space is limited; call (262) 633-2645 to reserve a seat. Information and directions online here.

Junior League accepting grant requests

The Junior League of Racine is accepting requests for its Spring Special Aids grants program.

Requests should include a brief summary stating the purpose of the grant request, how it relates to Junior League’s mission (with the focus on projects that enhance the well-being of children) and should also include a copy of the organization's tax exemption letter. A maximum of $300 may be allocated to an organization.

Application forms may be downloaded. Organizations should submit their request by March 31 to the Junior League of Racine, P.O. Box 894, Racine, WI 53401, and Attention: Special Aids.

Comedian Dobie Maxwell at Theatre Guild

Dobie Maxwell, one of the top touring comedians in North America, will entertain at the Racine Theatre Guild on Saturday, Feb. 20, at 8 p.m

Dobie Maxwell, aka Mr. Lucky, has had bizarre luck and horrendous timing since birth, and he’s built a career on it. Maxwell has been performing on stage as much as possible since 1985. He has a slick, ranting style and a knack for saying what a lot of people are thinking. A comic’s comic, he’s worked with Robin Williams, Jerry Seinfeld, Tim Allen, Dennis Miller, Chris Rock, Drew Carey, Jeff Foxworthy, Richard Pryor, Jay Leno and Andrew “Dice” Clay. He’s a regular at Zanies in Chicago, where he taught comedy classes. Learn more about Dobie Maxwell online.

Steve DeClark, a stand-up comedian turned therapist, will warm up the audience for Maxwell. In previous season of the RTG's Comedy Tonight he appeared with Jane Matenaer; his TV spots include “America’s Funniest People” and “Comedy Central – Stand Up.”

The final show in the comedy series will be March 27, when ComedySportz returns.

Tickets for either Dobie Maxwell or ComedySportz cost $18 for adults and $16 each for seniors and students. For reservations and information, call 262-633-4218. The RTG box office at 2519 Northwestern Ave. is open from noon to 6 p.m. weekdays, and from 90 minutes prior to a performance through intermission. Online ticketing is available.

Two Poetry Roundtables scheduled

Teen and adult poetry enthusiasts are invited to the Racine Public Library’s Poetry Roundtable for a discussion of some of today’s poets. The group generally meets on the third Saturday of each month from 12-2 p.m. at Cup of Hope, 507 Sixth St. These free events focus on contemporary American poetry, highlighting a different poet at each meeting. As a group, participants will read poetry excerpts, analyze them and discuss their significance. Individuals with varying levels of poetry experience are welcome.

Poetry Roundtable will feature these contemporary poets in upcoming months:

Saturday, Feb. 20, 12-2 p.m.: Douglas Kearney
“1. it ain’t from here; it is here. mud slurred through water. mud made here to a here it is. So if there it goes, here is gone, too and it will still be from nowhere but here.” - Douglas Kearney

Douglas Kearney’s work as a poet, performer and librettist has been featured in many publications. His first full-length collection of poems, Fear, Some, was published in 2006. His second manuscript, The Black Automaton, was chosen by Catherine Wagner for the National Poetry Series.

Saturday, March 20, 12-2 p.m.: Lara Glenum
“A dangerous toy. Not for use by ballerinas shot in the face. Clean clogged orifices with chainsaw/feather dipped in lye.”

Lara Glenum is a poet, scholar, and translator. Author of two books of poetry: The Hounds of No and Maximum Gaga as well as co-editor of Gurlesque, an anthology of contemporary women’s poetry and visual art, she has collaborated with artists on Meat Out of the Eater, a multimedia installation. The previous recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship to Prague, Lara translates 20th and 21st century Czech poetry.

Poetry Roundtable is facilitated by Nick Demske, a local poet and employee of the Racine Public Library. Contact Nick at for information about each month’s selected poet. Poetry Roundtable events are free and open to the public; drop-ins are welcome.