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 23rd annual Breakfast being held on Saturday, Nov. 14 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at Roma Lodge, 7130 Spring St. in Racine. 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 $12.50 for Friends of the Library members and $14.50 for the general public. Reservations may be made by calling 262.681.2381 on or before Friday, October 30.
These featured authors will be in attendance at this year's Breakfast:
Joan Bennett - Where Have All the Cheese Factories gone?
Joan Bennett is a retired Advanced Placement Biology teacher, who taught for 34 years in the Racine Unified Schools. She graduated with a BA in Biology and French from UW-Platteville and holds a Masters in Professional Development from UW-Whitewater. Her written work has appeared in American Girl magazine, Biology Teacher magazine, and the Muir View. She also wrote for the environmental newsletter the Root River Ripple and the newsletter for the Biology Association of Racine and Kenosha. In addition, she was awarded first place in the Wisconsin Humanities Council "Barn Again" essay contest in 2003. In 2004, she retired and began family genealogy research at the Iowa County Historical Society. Five years later, as a member the Historical Society's Cheese Factory Committee, she completed and published the 400+ page book, Where Have all the Cheese Factories Gone?, a history of the cheese factories and creameries of Iowa County.
Sister Dolores Enderle - A Time To Grow
A Time To Grow, the third volume of the history of the Dominicans of Racine from 1901-1964, narrates the steady growth and endured hardships of the community after its foundation in 1862. This well-written and engaging study highlights the lives of the ordinary sisters who risked all trying to teach the influx of German immigrants flocking to America in the early nineteenth century and who struggled to observe the many regulations and customs handed down from a lingering period of monasticism. The work is a remarkable collection of letters, oral histories, diocesan documents, and personal information.
Dolores Enderle, a Racine Dominican, received her doctorate in English from Ball State University. As teacher and administrator, she served her religious community in Michigan, Wisconsin, Kentucky, and Mississippi. She taught at Dominican College in Racine, UW-Parkside, and Siena Heights University before becoming president of St. Catharine College in Springfield, Kentucky. She has served as vice-president of her community and has worked for Sacred Heart Southern Missions in northern Mississippi. Since 2002, she has been researching community history and working on community projects.
Delores Gapanowicz - The Finchley House Mystery
In the early 1980's, Delores Gapanowicz began writing a mystery for her elementary students in the hopes of providing them with a story that wouldn't bore them to sleep. Her experiences with the short mysteries she read to her classes were that most of the kids had them solved by the middle of the book and lost interest in the rest of the tale. Little did she imagine that the story she told would become a published book appearing at international book fairs. The Finchley House Mystery tells the story of the attempts of two young boys and their sisters to solve the mystery behind peculiar happenings at an abandoned home in the small town of Green Hills.
Gapanowicz graduated from UW-Madison with a BA in Art History, from Dominican College with a BFA, and from Carthage College with a major in Elementary Education. She lived for two years in Uganda, East Africa, teaching literature and art to young girls as a lay teacher for the Verona Fathers, a Catholic Mission organization. Upon her return she taught elementary education in Kenosha, WI, until her retirement. Gapanowicz also published The Mayor's Daughter in 2007, the story of her parents' lives in Eastern Europe and their emigration to Canada and the USA.
Jerry Rannow - This One'll Killya
Jerry Rannow began his show business career as a professional actor, making the transition to writer-producer on many network television series, including Welcome Back, Kotter; Happy Days; Love, American Style; Room 222; Love Boat; All in the Family; Eight is Enough; and Head of the Class - a total of over 200 produced TV comedy scripts. He has won exclusive contracts to develop television series with the ABC Network, Columbia Pictures, Twentieth Century-Fox and the CTV Network in Toronto where he received a Canadian Emmy nomination. Jerry has taught comedy writing at the University of Wisconsin, Carthage College, DePaul University and the USC Film School. A lifetime member of the Writers Guild of America, Jerry wrote the ABC Movie of the Week, Guide for the Married Woman, as well as nine TV pilots and eight screenplays. After a thirty-year career in Hollywood, Jerry has returned to his hometown of Racine, WI, to write books. His first two, Writing Television Comedy and Surviving Hollywood, are available in bookstores and at Amazon.com. He has recently published his first comedy-detective novel, This One'll Killya, available at Amazon, Borders, Barnes & Noble and Jerryrannow.com.
Showing posts with label Authors. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Authors. Show all posts
Monday, October 26, 2009
Friday, October 9, 2009
Saturday, October 17: BONK! Celebrates a Year of Outstanding Performances
Join the Racine Public Library in celebrating the one year anniversary of BONK!, the free monthly performance series created to expose the public to both local and nationally recognized artistic talents. The series showcases poets, writers, musicians, film makers and other talented artists and is being held on Saturday, October 17 from 6-9 pm. The event has moved back to its original venue at the NEW BLUEBERRIES CAFE, 515 Sixth St., in downtown Racine. Doors open at 5:30 pm and seating is available on a first come/first served basis. Saturday's event will feature writer Daniel Borzutzky, poet K. Silem Mohammad, and musician Brent Mitchell. Each BONK! event features a short question and answer session with the artists.
K. Silem Mohammad is the author of Deer Head Nation (Tougher Disguises, 2003), A Thousand Devils (Combo Books, 2004), Breathalyzer (Edge Books, 2008), and The Front (Roof Books, 2009). He edits the poetry magazine Abraham Lincoln with Anne Boyer, and is a co-editor of the forthcoming Flarf: An Anthology of Flarf (Edge Books, 2010). He teaches literature and creative writing at Southern Oregon University.
Daniel Borzutzky's books include The Book of Interfering Bodies (Nightboat Books, forthcoming), The Ecstasy of Capitulation (BlazeVox, 2007), Arbitrary Tales (Triple Press, 2005), and the chapbooks One Size Fits All (Scantily Clad Press, 2009) and Failure in the Imagination (Bronze Skull Press, 2007). He is the translator of Song for his Disappeared Love by Raul Zurita (Action Books, forthcoming); Port Trakl by Jaime Luis Huenún (Action Books, 2008); and One Year and Other Stories by Juan Emar, which was published as a special issue of the Review of Contemporary Fiction. Journal publications include Fence; Chicago Review; TriQuarterly; Action, Yes; Conjunctions; Words Without Borders; Circumference; American Letters and Commentary; Mandorla; Denver Quarterly and many others.
The new Racine-based, online literary journal Boo features both Borzutzky's and Mohammad's writings, as well as work from many other BONK! performers (boojournal.wordpress.com).
Also appearing this month is Brent Mitchell, one of BONK!'s first performers. Brent has been a Texas rancher, an urban street person, and is now a student of religion and literature at Carthage College. He has played in a variety of bands throughout the Southwest, Mexico, and England performing Blues, Country, and even Latvian and Cajun. He has recorded for jazz bassist Drew Phelps, and has shared studio and stage with a long list of professional musicians from Americana and Country music charts. His songs have been included in many movies and can be found on CDs by Colin Boyd and Bonnie Whitmore. Whitmore's version of Mitchell's song Hand of God was listed for a Grammy in 2007. Brent Mitchell has recorded three CDs of his own available for purchase at the event.
Local artists and performers are encouraged to consider sharing their talent/craft with the community via the BONK! series. For more information on how to participate or to view video of past performances please visit http://bonkperformanceseries.wordpress.com. You may also contact the Racine Public Library at 262.619.2571, Becky Spika at becky.spika@racinelibrary.info , or Nick Demske at nick.demske@racinelibrary.info.
K. Silem Mohammad is the author of Deer Head Nation (Tougher Disguises, 2003), A Thousand Devils (Combo Books, 2004), Breathalyzer (Edge Books, 2008), and The Front (Roof Books, 2009). He edits the poetry magazine Abraham Lincoln with Anne Boyer, and is a co-editor of the forthcoming Flarf: An Anthology of Flarf (Edge Books, 2010). He teaches literature and creative writing at Southern Oregon University.
Daniel Borzutzky's books include The Book of Interfering Bodies (Nightboat Books, forthcoming), The Ecstasy of Capitulation (BlazeVox, 2007), Arbitrary Tales (Triple Press, 2005), and the chapbooks One Size Fits All (Scantily Clad Press, 2009) and Failure in the Imagination (Bronze Skull Press, 2007). He is the translator of Song for his Disappeared Love by Raul Zurita (Action Books, forthcoming); Port Trakl by Jaime Luis Huenún (Action Books, 2008); and One Year and Other Stories by Juan Emar, which was published as a special issue of the Review of Contemporary Fiction. Journal publications include Fence; Chicago Review; TriQuarterly; Action, Yes; Conjunctions; Words Without Borders; Circumference; American Letters and Commentary; Mandorla; Denver Quarterly and many others.
The new Racine-based, online literary journal Boo features both Borzutzky's and Mohammad's writings, as well as work from many other BONK! performers (boojournal.wordpress.com).
Also appearing this month is Brent Mitchell, one of BONK!'s first performers. Brent has been a Texas rancher, an urban street person, and is now a student of religion and literature at Carthage College. He has played in a variety of bands throughout the Southwest, Mexico, and England performing Blues, Country, and even Latvian and Cajun. He has recorded for jazz bassist Drew Phelps, and has shared studio and stage with a long list of professional musicians from Americana and Country music charts. His songs have been included in many movies and can be found on CDs by Colin Boyd and Bonnie Whitmore. Whitmore's version of Mitchell's song Hand of God was listed for a Grammy in 2007. Brent Mitchell has recorded three CDs of his own available for purchase at the event.
Local artists and performers are encouraged to consider sharing their talent/craft with the community via the BONK! series. For more information on how to participate or to view video of past performances please visit http://bonkperformanceseries.wordpress.com. You may also contact the Racine Public Library at 262.619.2571, Becky Spika at becky.spika@racinelibrary.info , or Nick Demske at nick.demske@racinelibrary.info.
Wednesday, October 21: Library Hosts Straylight Author Readings
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., will host a performance of readings by a select group of local poets and authors on Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 6:00-7:30 pm. The featured readers are all contributors to Straylight Literary Magazine, a University of Wisconsin - Parkside publication. The event is free and no registration is necessary. Seating is available on a first come/first served basis.
In print for five years and holding the distinction of being UW-Parkside's only literary magazine, Straylight accepts submissions for Poetry, Short Fiction, and Art. Editor-in-chief Dean Karpowicz, is a Professor of English at the University of Wisconsin - Parkside.
In print for five years and holding the distinction of being UW-Parkside's only literary magazine, Straylight accepts submissions for Poetry, Short Fiction, and Art. Editor-in-chief Dean Karpowicz, is a Professor of English at the University of Wisconsin - Parkside.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Racine Public Library Receives Author Grant
On July 31, 2009 the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St, was awarded a Wisconsin Authors and Illustrators Speak grant from the Wisconsin Center for the Book, an affiliate of the Woodland Pattern Book Center in Milwaukee, WI. One of 8 recipients, the Racine Public Library will use the gifted funds to host an event with nationally recognized poet Abraham Smith, in the fall of 2009.
The Racine Public Library has selected Abraham Smith, author of the book of poetry, Whim Man Mammon (2007), published by Action Books, as the guest author for a workshop and performance event on Friday, November 6, 2009. Smith will be working with area high school students during an afternoon workshop to help them develop their own poetic voice and written work. All participants will then be performing their poetry on a shared stage with Abe Smith during an evening program and reception.
The need and desire to reach young people and encourage their written and spoken self-expression is the motivation behind the Racine Public Library's choice of poet Abe Smith as the visiting author. His cutting edge and unique experimental poetry combined with his unusual performance style will appeal to young adults and teens, and will introduce them to a challenging genre they might not otherwise be exposed to. Smith's style will be of interest to audiences of contemporary poetry.
According to Woodland Pattern Book Center, "Abraham Smith hails from Ladysmith, Wisconsin. His first book of poems, Whim Man Mammon (2007), was recently published by Action Books. His journal credits include American Poetry Review, jubilat, Northwest Review, Denver Quarterly, Typo, and Ninth Letter, among others. He was a 2004-05 Writing Fellow at the Fine Arts Work Center, Provincetown, MA. Presently, he teaches literature and creative writing at the University of Alabama." He placed 3rd in the 2001 Open Poetry Slam at the Taos Poetry Circus in New Mexico.
Smith's involvement in both the slam poetry culture and the academic world of poetry puts him in a unique position to bridge a gap between these two contentious schools of literature. Significant to the Racine Public Library's decision was the fact that Smith has had to actively avoid and has been successful at not being excluded from these two competing worlds. His history and his approach to the creative arts have proven that he is a writer that encourages unconventionality and the embracing of all forms of literature. His passion and joy for words is infectious and encouraging.
Further event details will be available in October 2009.
The Racine Public Library has selected Abraham Smith, author of the book of poetry, Whim Man Mammon (2007), published by Action Books, as the guest author for a workshop and performance event on Friday, November 6, 2009. Smith will be working with area high school students during an afternoon workshop to help them develop their own poetic voice and written work. All participants will then be performing their poetry on a shared stage with Abe Smith during an evening program and reception.
The need and desire to reach young people and encourage their written and spoken self-expression is the motivation behind the Racine Public Library's choice of poet Abe Smith as the visiting author. His cutting edge and unique experimental poetry combined with his unusual performance style will appeal to young adults and teens, and will introduce them to a challenging genre they might not otherwise be exposed to. Smith's style will be of interest to audiences of contemporary poetry.
According to Woodland Pattern Book Center, "Abraham Smith hails from Ladysmith, Wisconsin. His first book of poems, Whim Man Mammon (2007), was recently published by Action Books. His journal credits include American Poetry Review, jubilat, Northwest Review, Denver Quarterly, Typo, and Ninth Letter, among others. He was a 2004-05 Writing Fellow at the Fine Arts Work Center, Provincetown, MA. Presently, he teaches literature and creative writing at the University of Alabama." He placed 3rd in the 2001 Open Poetry Slam at the Taos Poetry Circus in New Mexico.
Smith's involvement in both the slam poetry culture and the academic world of poetry puts him in a unique position to bridge a gap between these two contentious schools of literature. Significant to the Racine Public Library's decision was the fact that Smith has had to actively avoid and has been successful at not being excluded from these two competing worlds. His history and his approach to the creative arts have proven that he is a writer that encourages unconventionality and the embracing of all forms of literature. His passion and joy for words is infectious and encouraging.
Further event details will be available in October 2009.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Saturday, July 25: Author Shares Tips on How to Sell Yourself in Any Interview
Author Oscar Adler, author of Sell Yourself in Any Interview: Use Proven Techniques to Land Your Dream Job, is willing to share his secrets….the secrets to winning techniques that make you shine when your career is on the line.
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., will host an interview technique seminar and networking session with Oscar Adler on Saturday, July 25 from 1:30-3:30 pm. Seating is limited and registration is recommended for this free program. Interested participants may call the library at 262.636.9217 to reserve a seat.
Behind every question, an interviewer is really thinking, "What will you do for me?" Sell Yourself in Any Interview teaches you to translate your personal features (skills, experience, education, background) into direct benefits that meet the specific needs of the interviewer. Adler's results-oriented workbook teaches the strategies employed by successful salespeople, such as being an excellent listener, asking questions skillfully, and delivering outstanding benefits.
Oscar Adler has 40 years' experience interviewing, hiring, and training thousands of sales representatives, sales managers, and sales support staff for Maidenform International.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Thursday, July 2: The Poetry of War & Peace
The Racine Public Library, in cooperation with Racine Interfaith Coalition, will host a book reading and discussion with poet and scholar Philip Metres on Thursday, July 2, from 6-7:30 p.m., in the Library's Adult Services Department at 75 Seventh St. in downtown Racine. During his presentation, Metres will talk about the poetry of war and peace, reading selections from his books, *Behind the Lines: War Resistance Poetry on the American Homefront since 1941*, *To See the Earth*, and *Come Together: Imagine Peace*.
"Behind the Lines investigates American war resistance poetry from the Second World War through the Iraq wars. Rather than simply chronicling the genre, Philip Metres argues that this poetry gets to the heart of who is authorized to speak about war and how it can be represented. As such, he explores a largely neglected area of scholarship: the poet's relationship to dissenting political movements and the nation."
In addition to authoring his many books, Metres' poetry has appeared in numerous journals and anthologies, including Best American Poetry and Inclined to Speak: Contemporary Arab American Poetry. He has been involved in the peace movement since the 1980s; he co-founded the Bloomington [Indiana] Coalition for Peace in the 1990s, and has worked with Pax Christi, Committee for Peace in the Middle East, Peace Action, and Tikkun. He teaches literature and creative writing at John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio. Were it not for Ellis Island, his last name would be Abourjaili.
This program is free and open to the public. No registration is necessary, however, seating is limited and early arrival is recommended. Questions may be directed to the Racine Public Library at 262.636.9217.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Saturday, March 28: Authors, Musicians, and More Cross-Pollinate at Bonk!
The next event in the Racine Public Library's "BONK!" performance series will take place on Saturday, March. 28 at 6 p.m. This month's BONK! will feature performances from writer Valerie Laken, visual artist Tina Ullrich, folk-hop recording artists Melissa Czarnik and Eric Mire, and the music of Folkswagon.
Created to expose the public to both local and nationally recognized artistic talents, the series showcases poets, writers, musicians, film makers and all sorts of talents in between. A completely free program, this series is located in downtown Racine at the Blueberries restaurant, 418 Sixth Street, which offers food and drink to be purchased at the events. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with seating available on a first come/first served basis. Each BONK! event features a short question and answer session with the artists.
Author Valerie Laken has lived and worked in Moscow, Prague, Krakow, Madison, and Ann Arbor. She received an MA in Slavic Literature and an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Michigan. Her work has appeared in Ploughshares, the Chicago Tribune, and Michigan Quarterly Review, among others. Her honors include a Pushcart Prize, the Missouri Review Editors' Prize, two Hopwood Awards, and an honorable mention in the Best American Short Stories. Her critically acclaimed first novel, Dream House, was inspired by her own experience buying and remodeling a home in which a murder had occurred. Laken is currently an Assistant Professor of English at the University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, where she teaches Creative Writing.
Visual Artist Tina Ullrich graduated with a B.F.A. in Sculpture from Swain School of Design (New Bedford, MA) in 1977. She is currently a full-time student in a doctoral program for clinical psychology at the School of Professional Psychology, Spalding University, Louisville, KY and was recently awarded her masters. Ullrich has fully integrated her psychology interests into her art, specializing in blind contour portrait drawing. She is currently developing a new and unique model called Visual Artifacting. Ullrich will share the playful and scientific exploration of blind contour portrait drawing and has compiled a slideshow of her own portrait-making over the last three decades. The slideshow will be exhibited in the gallery area, throughout the evening. Melissa Czarnik is a burgeoning poet and emcee hailing from Milwaukee, WI. Czarnik recently released her first solo album, Strawberry Cadillac in the Summer of 2008. The album is the product of a year long project which focuses on issues of social justice, relationships, and the struggle that goes along with the two. Mixing her interests in poetry and Hip Hop, her song diversity exemplifies a strong influence of artists such as Lauryn Hill, Ani Difranco, and French songstress, Edith Piaf. Her style is a powerful mix of poetry, precise delivery, and conscious content in a voice that ranges from sweet and playful to in your face and commanding. The music that backs her up is the product of producer Eric Mire. This Milwaukee recording artist mixes hip-hop, folk, and soul in his latest self-titled album, eric mire (released Summer 2007). A classically trained pianist and composer, self taught acoustic guitarist, electric bass player and hip hop producer, Eric draws upon his broad musical talents to create a unique and infectious rhythmic sound. Eric is the Student Services Manager and Recording Instructor/Engineer at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music.
Folkswagon first sprouted in November of 2008 as a six-piece band playing what has been referred to as folk n'roll, or Midwestern hippie music. Members include: writer, singer, guitarist Rachelle Laundrie; fiddler Bill VanOfferen; bass guitarist John Jacob; drummer Russ Weller; lead guitarist Brent Mitchell, and vocalist Susan Laundrie. The band hosts open mic nights at McAuliffe's on the Square every Thursday night at 9:30.
Local artists and performers are encouraged to consider sharing their talent/craft with the community via the BONK! series. For more information on how to participate or to view past performances please visit http://bonkperformanceseries.wordpress.com. You may also contact the Racine Public Library at 262.619.2571, Becky Spika at becky.spika@racinelibrary.info , or Nick Demske at nick.demske@racinelibrary.info.
Created to expose the public to both local and nationally recognized artistic talents, the series showcases poets, writers, musicians, film makers and all sorts of talents in between. A completely free program, this series is located in downtown Racine at the Blueberries restaurant, 418 Sixth Street, which offers food and drink to be purchased at the events. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with seating available on a first come/first served basis. Each BONK! event features a short question and answer session with the artists.
Author Valerie Laken has lived and worked in Moscow, Prague, Krakow, Madison, and Ann Arbor. She received an MA in Slavic Literature and an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Michigan. Her work has appeared in Ploughshares, the Chicago Tribune, and Michigan Quarterly Review, among others. Her honors include a Pushcart Prize, the Missouri Review Editors' Prize, two Hopwood Awards, and an honorable mention in the Best American Short Stories. Her critically acclaimed first novel, Dream House, was inspired by her own experience buying and remodeling a home in which a murder had occurred. Laken is currently an Assistant Professor of English at the University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, where she teaches Creative Writing.
Visual Artist Tina Ullrich graduated with a B.F.A. in Sculpture from Swain School of Design (New Bedford, MA) in 1977. She is currently a full-time student in a doctoral program for clinical psychology at the School of Professional Psychology, Spalding University, Louisville, KY and was recently awarded her masters. Ullrich has fully integrated her psychology interests into her art, specializing in blind contour portrait drawing. She is currently developing a new and unique model called Visual Artifacting. Ullrich will share the playful and scientific exploration of blind contour portrait drawing and has compiled a slideshow of her own portrait-making over the last three decades. The slideshow will be exhibited in the gallery area, throughout the evening. Melissa Czarnik is a burgeoning poet and emcee hailing from Milwaukee, WI. Czarnik recently released her first solo album, Strawberry Cadillac in the Summer of 2008. The album is the product of a year long project which focuses on issues of social justice, relationships, and the struggle that goes along with the two. Mixing her interests in poetry and Hip Hop, her song diversity exemplifies a strong influence of artists such as Lauryn Hill, Ani Difranco, and French songstress, Edith Piaf. Her style is a powerful mix of poetry, precise delivery, and conscious content in a voice that ranges from sweet and playful to in your face and commanding. The music that backs her up is the product of producer Eric Mire. This Milwaukee recording artist mixes hip-hop, folk, and soul in his latest self-titled album, eric mire (released Summer 2007). A classically trained pianist and composer, self taught acoustic guitarist, electric bass player and hip hop producer, Eric draws upon his broad musical talents to create a unique and infectious rhythmic sound. Eric is the Student Services Manager and Recording Instructor/Engineer at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music.
Folkswagon first sprouted in November of 2008 as a six-piece band playing what has been referred to as folk n'roll, or Midwestern hippie music. Members include: writer, singer, guitarist Rachelle Laundrie; fiddler Bill VanOfferen; bass guitarist John Jacob; drummer Russ Weller; lead guitarist Brent Mitchell, and vocalist Susan Laundrie. The band hosts open mic nights at McAuliffe's on the Square every Thursday night at 9:30.
Local artists and performers are encouraged to consider sharing their talent/craft with the community via the BONK! series. For more information on how to participate or to view past performances please visit http://bonkperformanceseries.wordpress.com. You may also contact the Racine Public Library at 262.619.2571, Becky Spika at becky.spika@racinelibrary.info , or Nick Demske at nick.demske@racinelibrary.info.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Thursday, March 5: Library Hosts Culture in the War Zone - Iraq, Turkey, Kurdistan
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., will host a presentation by independent journalist Bob Keith entitled "Culture in the War Zone – Iraq, Turkey, Kurdistan" on Thursday, March 5 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the library's Lee Room.
Bob Keith will share his motivation for visiting current Iraq. He often uses story telling to communicate his impressions of the culture, people, and nuances of the region. He also weaves responses and reactions he received back home to his blogs and media interviews. Bob will also bring some of the pictures and short videos he took in Iraq.
Bob Keith is a freelancer in the broadest sense of the term. While still in graduate school he started an independent writing track focused on culture in locations where the United States has taken military action. He has traveled, at his own expense, to Vietnam, Laos and Thailand several times to look at the culture of those countries 30 years after the war. Bob has also traveled to Iraq in 2006 and 2008 to view the affects that the current war is having on that culture.
Bob grew up in Rock County, Wisconsin on a dairy farm. He served in the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers in Germany during the end of the Vietnam era and has worked numerous blue-collar jobs in Wisconsin and around the country before returning to college in his 40s. He has earned two Associate degrees from Madison Area Technical College; a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice / Sociology from UW-Whitewater; and, 45 graduate credits in Communication also from UW-Whitewater. At present, Bob is preparing for a third, more extensive project in Iraq scheduled for 2009.
This presentation is free and open to the public; no registration is necessary. Questions may be directed to the Racine Public Library information desks at 262.636.9217.
Bob Keith will share his motivation for visiting current Iraq. He often uses story telling to communicate his impressions of the culture, people, and nuances of the region. He also weaves responses and reactions he received back home to his blogs and media interviews. Bob will also bring some of the pictures and short videos he took in Iraq.
Bob Keith is a freelancer in the broadest sense of the term. While still in graduate school he started an independent writing track focused on culture in locations where the United States has taken military action. He has traveled, at his own expense, to Vietnam, Laos and Thailand several times to look at the culture of those countries 30 years after the war. Bob has also traveled to Iraq in 2006 and 2008 to view the affects that the current war is having on that culture.
Bob grew up in Rock County, Wisconsin on a dairy farm. He served in the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers in Germany during the end of the Vietnam era and has worked numerous blue-collar jobs in Wisconsin and around the country before returning to college in his 40s. He has earned two Associate degrees from Madison Area Technical College; a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice / Sociology from UW-Whitewater; and, 45 graduate credits in Communication also from UW-Whitewater. At present, Bob is preparing for a third, more extensive project in Iraq scheduled for 2009.
This presentation is free and open to the public; no registration is necessary. Questions may be directed to the Racine Public Library information desks at 262.636.9217.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Thursday, February 19: Sierra Club Hosts Author at the Library: the Poetry and the Practicalities of Hiking Michigan's Upper Penisula
The Sierra Club's Southeast Gateway Group will host nature and travel author Eric Hansen for a one-hour program at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St, on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 6:30 p.m. The program is free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. Seating is limited, however, and early arrival is recommended.
Author Eric Hansen will present a slide tour of the Upper Peninsula's best hikes and offer his thoughts on the land, its compelling themes and its almost mythic place in the imagination of people throughout the Midwest. The author of Hiking Michigan's Upper Peninsula – A Guide to the Greatest Hiking Adventures in the U.P., Eric walked 900 miles while researching that project.
He found miles of quiet Lake Superior shoreline, thumping waterfalls and sparkling cascades, and high rock balconies with knock-your-socks-off views that stretch 50 miles and more. Hansen will cover hidden gems like Shining Cloud Falls and the fabled Falls of the Yellow Dog as well as scenic viewpoints like the Trap Hill's Norwich Bluff and the Tip of the Keweenaw's Bare Bluff. His slide shows are popular – twice drawing overflow crowds of more than 300 people.
He has highlighted the U.P.'s natural heritage in adventure features in Backpacker Magazine, the op-ed pages of the Chicago Tribune , and in numerous interviews on Wisconsin Public Radio.
Also a conservation activist, Hansen is part of a widespread citizens campaign to block ill-advised proposals for metallic sulfide mining in the U.P. In 2006, The Outdoor Writer's Association of America awarded him first prize for conservation and environment newspaper writing for his Chicago Tribune op-ed essay (available at www.eric-hansen.com) which highlighted the U.P.'s iconic coaster brook trout and the threat of metallic sulfide mining there.
Widely traveled, he is a veteran of 28 treks to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, successful ascents of most of the high peaks in Glacier National Park and a telemark-style ski descent of Colorado's highest peak.
For more information contact the library at 262.636.9217. For more upcoming programs at the Racine Public Library, visit the website at racinelibrary.info.
Author Eric Hansen will present a slide tour of the Upper Peninsula's best hikes and offer his thoughts on the land, its compelling themes and its almost mythic place in the imagination of people throughout the Midwest. The author of Hiking Michigan's Upper Peninsula – A Guide to the Greatest Hiking Adventures in the U.P., Eric walked 900 miles while researching that project.
He found miles of quiet Lake Superior shoreline, thumping waterfalls and sparkling cascades, and high rock balconies with knock-your-socks-off views that stretch 50 miles and more. Hansen will cover hidden gems like Shining Cloud Falls and the fabled Falls of the Yellow Dog as well as scenic viewpoints like the Trap Hill's Norwich Bluff and the Tip of the Keweenaw's Bare Bluff. His slide shows are popular – twice drawing overflow crowds of more than 300 people.
He has highlighted the U.P.'s natural heritage in adventure features in Backpacker Magazine, the op-ed pages of the Chicago Tribune , and in numerous interviews on Wisconsin Public Radio.
Also a conservation activist, Hansen is part of a widespread citizens campaign to block ill-advised proposals for metallic sulfide mining in the U.P. In 2006, The Outdoor Writer's Association of America awarded him first prize for conservation and environment newspaper writing for his Chicago Tribune op-ed essay (available at www.eric-hansen.com) which highlighted the U.P.'s iconic coaster brook trout and the threat of metallic sulfide mining there.
Widely traveled, he is a veteran of 28 treks to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, successful ascents of most of the high peaks in Glacier National Park and a telemark-style ski descent of Colorado's highest peak.
For more information contact the library at 262.636.9217. For more upcoming programs at the Racine Public Library, visit the website at racinelibrary.info.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Monday, February 2: "Japan's Motorcycle Wars" at the Library
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., will host an author book talk and signing by UW-Parkside History Professor Jeffrey Alexander on Monday, February 2 at 6:30 p.m. in the library's Lee Room.
Based on his newly published book Japan's Motorcycle Wars: An Industry History, Alexander offers his historical and business insights on the business war that was Japan's 20th century motorcycle industry. During the program, Dr. Alexander will examine the industry's explosive growth during the early 1950s when the number of manufacturers swelled to more than 200. Through the use of transcripts, industry publications, and company histories that have until now been available only in Japanese, Dr. Alexander chronicles an industry beset by misplaced loyalties, technical disasters, and marketplace victors forged from brutal competition. The presentation features dozens of rare photographs, many unpublished outside of Japan.
The event is free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. For more information contact the Racine Public Library at 262.637.2571.
Based on his newly published book Japan's Motorcycle Wars: An Industry History, Alexander offers his historical and business insights on the business war that was Japan's 20th century motorcycle industry. During the program, Dr. Alexander will examine the industry's explosive growth during the early 1950s when the number of manufacturers swelled to more than 200. Through the use of transcripts, industry publications, and company histories that have until now been available only in Japanese, Dr. Alexander chronicles an industry beset by misplaced loyalties, technical disasters, and marketplace victors forged from brutal competition. The presentation features dozens of rare photographs, many unpublished outside of Japan.
The event is free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. For more information contact the Racine Public Library at 262.637.2571.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Thursday, January 29: Author Offers Book Talk and Publishing Tips for New Authors
The Racine Public Library will host a one hour presentation on publishing tips for new authors, and a book-talk by Doug Story, author of the 2007 book, "The Blood of Soldiers Makes the General Great: Preparing for the Business Wars to Come." The program will be held on Thursday, Jan. 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the library's Lee Room.
In his presentation, Doug Story will discuss the evolution of his book from idea conception through the publishing process. He will touch upon how he put his ideas into book form and the process he went through to locate a publisher in tough economic times. Discussion of Story's current publication will also be offered.
Douglas Story has been working nationally and internationally in business for over 20 years. During this time he kept journals on his activities, the business programs he participated in, and the people he met. From his journals, he began to see that a primary indicator of the future success of a business was apparent in the way that business handled its employees in times of crisis.
In 2007, the information Doug Story collected took the form of a published book, "The Blood of Soldiers Makes the General Great: Preparing for the Business Wars to Come." Since that time, many of the concepts put forth in his book have made it into mainstream media and are being witnessed in the way businesses are dealing with the current economic downturn…through the elimination of many of their most experienced and knowledgeable employees via layoffs and forced retirements. These companies may be able to survive today, but what will the future hold?
Douglas Story was born in North Carolina and was raised all over the world. He graduated from Western Carolina University with degrees in Biology and Chemistry and from Loyola University with an MBA.
This program is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Seating will be available on a first come/first served basis. Call the library at 262.636.9217 for more information.
In his presentation, Doug Story will discuss the evolution of his book from idea conception through the publishing process. He will touch upon how he put his ideas into book form and the process he went through to locate a publisher in tough economic times. Discussion of Story's current publication will also be offered.
Douglas Story has been working nationally and internationally in business for over 20 years. During this time he kept journals on his activities, the business programs he participated in, and the people he met. From his journals, he began to see that a primary indicator of the future success of a business was apparent in the way that business handled its employees in times of crisis.
In 2007, the information Doug Story collected took the form of a published book, "The Blood of Soldiers Makes the General Great: Preparing for the Business Wars to Come." Since that time, many of the concepts put forth in his book have made it into mainstream media and are being witnessed in the way businesses are dealing with the current economic downturn…through the elimination of many of their most experienced and knowledgeable employees via layoffs and forced retirements. These companies may be able to survive today, but what will the future hold?
Douglas Story was born in North Carolina and was raised all over the world. He graduated from Western Carolina University with degrees in Biology and Chemistry and from Loyola University with an MBA.
This program is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Seating will be available on a first come/first served basis. Call the library at 262.636.9217 for more information.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
BREAKFAST WITH THE AUTHORS NOV. 8
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 being held on Nov. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at Roma Lodge, 7130 Spring St. in Racine. 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. The Friends support the Racine Public Library through advocacy and funding of programs, services and special collection materials.
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. Publication credits include The Boston Globe, Chicago Tribune, Global Traveler, Where to Retire, AAA Living and various regional publications. 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 acclaimed "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. After an eight year stint in television news, including PBS and NBC, she spent eight years at Burson-Marsteller, the large public relations firm.
Libby lives on the North Shore of Chicago with her family.
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, author 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 creative strategies, learned through years of trial and error, also 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. I find that my approach is liberating for older people and their families." Lynch also draws on personal experience to provide compassionate and practical assistance to adult children who are already overwhelmed by their caregiving responsibilities.
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 was appointed to the State Board on Aging and Long-Term Care by Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle in 2006.
Michael Schumacher : "The Wreck of the Carl D.: A True Story of Loss, Survival, and Rescue at Sea"
The author of Mighty Fitz, 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, Schumacher's compelling follow up to Mighty Fitz is a wonderful addition to the literature of the Great Lakes and maritime history.
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.
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. Publication credits include The Boston Globe, Chicago Tribune, Global Traveler, Where to Retire, AAA Living and various regional publications. 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 acclaimed "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. After an eight year stint in television news, including PBS and NBC, she spent eight years at Burson-Marsteller, the large public relations firm.
Libby lives on the North Shore of Chicago with her family.
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, author 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 creative strategies, learned through years of trial and error, also 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. I find that my approach is liberating for older people and their families." Lynch also draws on personal experience to provide compassionate and practical assistance to adult children who are already overwhelmed by their caregiving responsibilities.
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 was appointed to the State Board on Aging and Long-Term Care by Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle in 2006.
Michael Schumacher : "The Wreck of the Carl D.: A True Story of Loss, Survival, and Rescue at Sea"
The author of Mighty Fitz, 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, Schumacher's compelling follow up to Mighty Fitz is a wonderful addition to the literature of the Great Lakes and maritime history.
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.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Local Author Book Signing at the Library
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., will host a book signing of The Sixth Lobe, for local author Michael Miller on Tuesday, June 24 at 7:00 p.m.
The Sixth Lobe is a mix of mystery, suspense, sci-fi, and crime that tells the story of a young child afflicted with a rare brain mutation. The action packed novel has received excellent early reviews and has sold out very quickly from Amazon.com. The fictional story carries many local references. Copies of the book will be available at a special price for purchase at the book signing.
Michael Miller is experienced with military training, has his master's degree in economics, and is a business consultant and problem solver with a deep interest in studying God, evil, power, and corruption with a pinch of scientific logic, harsh reality, and new frontiers. This is his first novel.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Saturday, May 31: Celebrate Racine Reads with Author Masha Hamilton
Join the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., for a celebration of the Racine Reads ninth community read selection, The Camel Bookmobile, on Saturday, May 31, 2-4 p.m. The event will feature a presentation and book-signing by author Masha Hamilton (2-3 p.m.), a children's storytime and craft program (3:30-4 p.m.), and Mobile Library exhibits and tours (throughout). The Racine Reads "Camel" will also be present to accept donations of new or gently used books for the Camel Library Service in Kenya.
The Camel Bookmobile tells the story of Fiona Sweeney, an American librarian who leaves a good job in the city to move to Africa and take books to a nomadic people. Instead of a bookmobile, the Camel Library Service in Kenya loads camels with books. The people must return all the books they borrowed before they are allowed to take out more books. It's a wonderful look at how literature enhances and impacts the lives of the Kenyan people.
The book was selected because of its emphasis on library outreach: taking library services into the community. In 2008, the Racine Public Library celebrates the 60th anniversary of its mobile library services. The Mobile Library will be on exhibition for this author event offering tours and a pictorial history of outreach services at the Racine Public Library.
The Camel Bookmobile tells the story of Fiona Sweeney, an American librarian who leaves a good job in the city to move to Africa and take books to a nomadic people. Instead of a bookmobile, the Camel Library Service in Kenya loads camels with books. The people must return all the books they borrowed before they are allowed to take out more books. It's a wonderful look at how literature enhances and impacts the lives of the Kenyan people.
The book was selected because of its emphasis on library outreach: taking library services into the community. In 2008, the Racine Public Library celebrates the 60th anniversary of its mobile library services. The Mobile Library will be on exhibition for this author event offering tours and a pictorial history of outreach services at the Racine Public Library.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Friday, April 18: Poet Kherdian to Speak at Racine Public Library
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., will host a poetry reading, book-signing and informal reception with award-winning poet and author David Kherdian on Friday, April 18 from 4-6 p.m. at the Library. Kherdian will read selections from his Root River collection of poems about Racine and from his new book "Forgotten Bread." Kherdian will also be available to sign books and meet with the public. Books will be available for purchase at the event. Authentic Armenian desserts provided by members of the St. Hagop and St. Mesrob churches will be available during an informal reception following the reading. This is a free event open to the public; no registration is necessary.
Kherdian was born and raised in Racine during the 1930's and 1940's and has frequently celebrated his life here in his books. Many of his major themes focus on the city of Racine and its history, and on the conflict he experienced between his parents' Armenian culture and his need to assimilate into American life. Kherdian's Root River Cycle is a collection of dozens of poetry books containing autobiographical remembrances of his boyhood. Collectively these poems are a poetic and literary tribute to the city of Racine, life in the Midwest, and to the places and people which molded this young writer.
Kherdian is the author of the 1980 Banta Award-winner, "The Road from Home," an account of his mother's flight from Turkish genocide and over 50 other books of poetry, memoirs, novels, biographies and children's stories, some in collaboration with his Caldecott Medal –winning illustrator and wife, Nonny Hogrogian.. His most recent publication, "Forgotten Bread," is a collection of works from 17 Armenian-American writers.
The Racine Public Library Foundation has selected David Kherdian as the first recipient of the Emily Lee Award, given to persons with Racine connections who have distinguished themselves in the world of literature. It is named after the wife of the first president of the Library Board who, in 1927, left the library $100,000. Kheridan will receive public recognition for his work at a special awards luncheon on Sunday, April 20, 1-3 p.m., at the Racine Marriott, 7111 Washington Ave. In addition, librarian Nancy Elsmo and the Racine Public Library Friends of the Library will receive the Distinguished Librarian award and the Friend of the Library award. "We invite the public to honor these awardees and show their appreciation for the years of good work done for the Library by these folks," says Andrew McLean, president of the Foundation. Tickets for the event are $35 and may be purchased at the Racine Public Library or by calling 262.636.9170.
Kherdian was born and raised in Racine during the 1930's and 1940's and has frequently celebrated his life here in his books. Many of his major themes focus on the city of Racine and its history, and on the conflict he experienced between his parents' Armenian culture and his need to assimilate into American life. Kherdian's Root River Cycle is a collection of dozens of poetry books containing autobiographical remembrances of his boyhood. Collectively these poems are a poetic and literary tribute to the city of Racine, life in the Midwest, and to the places and people which molded this young writer.
Kherdian is the author of the 1980 Banta Award-winner, "The Road from Home," an account of his mother's flight from Turkish genocide and over 50 other books of poetry, memoirs, novels, biographies and children's stories, some in collaboration with his Caldecott Medal –winning illustrator and wife, Nonny Hogrogian.. His most recent publication, "Forgotten Bread," is a collection of works from 17 Armenian-American writers.
The Racine Public Library Foundation has selected David Kherdian as the first recipient of the Emily Lee Award, given to persons with Racine connections who have distinguished themselves in the world of literature. It is named after the wife of the first president of the Library Board who, in 1927, left the library $100,000. Kheridan will receive public recognition for his work at a special awards luncheon on Sunday, April 20, 1-3 p.m., at the Racine Marriott, 7111 Washington Ave. In addition, librarian Nancy Elsmo and the Racine Public Library Friends of the Library will receive the Distinguished Librarian award and the Friend of the Library award. "We invite the public to honor these awardees and show their appreciation for the years of good work done for the Library by these folks," says Andrew McLean, president of the Foundation. Tickets for the event are $35 and may be purchased at the Racine Public Library or by calling 262.636.9170.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
JOIN THE CIRCLE OF KNOWLEDGE @ YOUR LIBRARY: Celebrate National Library Week at the Racine Public Library, April 13-19
It's National Library Week, a time to celebrate the contributions of libraries, librarians and library workers in schools, campuses and communities nationwide - and the perfect time to discover how you can join the circle of knowledge @ your library.
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., is celebrating National Library Week in several ways. All events are free and open to the public.
"Everyday, libraries in big cities and small towns, colleges and universities, in schools and in businesses help transform their communities," says Jessica MacPhail, Library Director. "At our library, people of all backgrounds can come together for community meetings, lectures and programs, to do research with the assistance of a trained professional, to find good books to read, to get a job or to find homework help, or to search the Internet for information."
First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April.
For more information, visit the Racine Public Library at 75 Seventh Street; call 262.636.9217, or visit the online library at www.racinelibrary.info.
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., is celebrating National Library Week in several ways. All events are free and open to the public.
- Children ages 11 and younger are invited to participate in the Culver's drawing contest throughout the month of April. Drawing sheets may be picked up from the Youth Services Department at the Racine Public Library. Children are encouraged to draw book characters they would like to meet at the library. Every child who completes a drawing will receive a "Be Our Guest" coupon for a free single scoop of frozen custard from Culver's and be entered into a random drawing to win additional prizes from Culver's, including a kickball and mini lantern. Drawings will be displayed at the Racine Public Library through the month of April.
- The annual Friends of the Library Used Book Sale is being held Friday, April 11 from 3-5pm (Members only); Saturday, April 12 from 1-5pm; and Sunday, April 13 from 2-5pm.
- The Eloquent Author School of Writing will host a writers' workshop entitled "Time to Write: No Excuses!" on Tuesday, April 15 at 6:30 p.m. Registration is suggested; call 262.636.9217.
- Join fellow poetry enthusiasts at JavaVino Wine and Coffee Shop, 424 Main St., on Thursday, April 17 from 7-9 p.m. for the library's monthly Poetry Roundtable.
- Award-winning Poet and Authoer David Kherdian will be the featured guest at a poetry reading and informal reception at the library on Friday, April 18 from 4-6 p.m. The author will be signing books and his books will be available for purchase.
- Families with children ages 3-8 are invited Saturday Stories, a family story and craft event at JavaVino Coffee shop on Saturday, April 19 from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
- The Racine Public Library Foundation Emily Lee Awards Lunch will be held on Sunday, April 20 at the Racine Marriott, at 1pm. Tickets are $35 each; tables of 8 are $250. Contact Jessica MacPhail, 262.636.9252, for more information.
"Everyday, libraries in big cities and small towns, colleges and universities, in schools and in businesses help transform their communities," says Jessica MacPhail, Library Director. "At our library, people of all backgrounds can come together for community meetings, lectures and programs, to do research with the assistance of a trained professional, to find good books to read, to get a job or to find homework help, or to search the Internet for information."
First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April.
For more information, visit the Racine Public Library at 75 Seventh Street; call 262.636.9217, or visit the online library at www.racinelibrary.info.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Tuesday, April 8: "Wind Point Lighthouse" Authors at the Library
Many lighthouses have called Racine home, but none is more closely linked to the nautical heritage of Racine than Wind Point. Today, after 125 years of faithful guardianship, the Wind Point Lighthouse is the most well-known symbol of Racine and is a success story among Great Lakes lights. Celebrating the distinctive stories from this nautical treasure's past, authors Barb and Ken Wardius have created their book, Images of America: Wind Point Lighthouse.
On Tuesday, April 8, at 6:30 p.m. the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., will host a presentation and book signing by Barb and Ken Wardius, featuring photographs and stories from their recently released book. Books will be available for purchase at the program.
Barb and Ken Wardius have traveled to, photographed and researched all of Wisconsin's existing nautical lights, becoming much sought after lighthouse speakers. They have authored two previous books: Wisconsin Lighthouses and Cana Island Lighthouse. Believing that lighthouse preservation is an important goal, the Wardiuses take pride in sharing their photography and historical studies with others.
This program is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the library at 262.636.9217 or visit the library's website at racinelibrary.info.
On Tuesday, April 8, at 6:30 p.m. the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., will host a presentation and book signing by Barb and Ken Wardius, featuring photographs and stories from their recently released book. Books will be available for purchase at the program.
Barb and Ken Wardius have traveled to, photographed and researched all of Wisconsin's existing nautical lights, becoming much sought after lighthouse speakers. They have authored two previous books: Wisconsin Lighthouses and Cana Island Lighthouse. Believing that lighthouse preservation is an important goal, the Wardiuses take pride in sharing their photography and historical studies with others.
This program is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the library at 262.636.9217 or visit the library's website at racinelibrary.info.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Thursday, March 10: JavaVino Hosts Racine Public Library Roundtable
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., continues its monthly Poetry Roundtable on Thursday, March 20 from 7-9 p.m. at JavaVino, 424 Main St. These free monthly 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 in today's society. Individuals with varying levels of poetry experience are welcome.
March's discussion will focus on the works of poet Anne Shaw. Photocopies of the poetry will be provided at the event, but it is recommended participants review some of the work in advance. Information on Shaw may be obtained through the Poetry Roundtable page of the library's website or by contacting the library's reference desk at 262.636.9217.
While Poetry Roundtable events are free and drop-ins are welcome, space is limited and it is recommended that interested participants call the Racine Public Library at 262.636.9217 to register in advance.
To supplement this program, the Racine Public Library's internet website is providing a page with links pertaining to each author. The site will include poetry, interviews and criticisms, among other resources. Visit the library's Poetry Roundtable website, at www.racinelibrary.info/contemporaryamericanpoetry , to access these features and to find information about each month's selected poet.
The Racine Public Library Poetry Roundtable is facilitated by Nick Demske, a local poet and employee of the Racine Public Library. In 2006, he graduated in Creative Writing from Carthage College. The recipient of several poetry awards including, the Carthage College Research and Creativity Award, First Prize in Centrique Magazine's Bi-annual Literary Contest and The Chapin-Tague Award for Poetry, Demske is a contributing editor for the online magazine, Expose Kenosha, and frequently reads at the weekly open mic events at 716: Fine Art Gallery, 401 Main St. in downtown Racine.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
February 12: Program cancellation at the Racine Public Library
"Images of America: The Wind Point Lighthouse" presentation and book signing by Barn & Ken Wardius has been canceled due to inclement weather. It has been rescheduled for Tuesday, April 8 at 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Wednesday, February 6: Library Cancellations
Due to the impending inclement weather, the following programs have been canceled or rescheduled:
Tuesday, Febraury 5: "Wind Point Lighthouse" Authors at the library has been rescheduled to Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2008 at 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Feb. 6 preschool storytimes at 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. have been canceled
Wednesday, Feb. 6 Coming Together Racine screening of "Do The Right Thing" has been rescheduled to Wednesday, April 2.
Wednesday, Feb 6 Ruff Readers from 4 - 5pm has been canceled.
Wednesday, Feb. 6: Introduction to Microsoft Word at 9:30 am has been canceled.
Tuesday, Febraury 5: "Wind Point Lighthouse" Authors at the library has been rescheduled to Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2008 at 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Feb. 6 preschool storytimes at 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. have been canceled
Wednesday, Feb. 6 Coming Together Racine screening of "Do The Right Thing" has been rescheduled to Wednesday, April 2.
Wednesday, Feb 6 Ruff Readers from 4 - 5pm has been canceled.
Wednesday, Feb. 6: Introduction to Microsoft Word at 9:30 am has been canceled.
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