Showing posts with label Movies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Movies. Show all posts
Monday, October 26, 2009
Friday, October 30: Anime Night at the Library
The Racine Public Library and the Racine Arts Council are hosting an Anime/Manga/Cosplay Night at the Library on Friday, October 30 from 6-9 pm. The totally free event will feature music by American Restless; a screening of an Operation Anime film; martial arts demonstrations by Chay's Tae Kwon Do; an anime art workshop; video gaming; and a cosplay contest. The event is appropriate for teens and young adults; no registration is necessary. For more information, contact Becky Spika at the Racine Public Library, 262-619-2571 or becky.spika@racinelibrary.info.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Wednesday, October 21: Fresh, the Movie: New Thinking About What We're Eating
The Racine Public Library will host a free screening of FRESH, THE MOVIE, an empowering film about successful people creating meaningful change in the world of ethical and sustainable eating. The event will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 6-8 pm in the library located at 75 Seventh St. in downtown Racine. A brief presentation and discussion with a member of the Racine Urban Garden Network will take place following the movie. The program is limited to 25 participants and registration is required. Contact the library at 262.636.9217 or visit the Adult Services Information desk to reserve a spot.
FRESH celebrates the farmers, thinkers and business people across America who are re-inventing our food system. Forging healthier, sustainable alternatives, they offer a practical vision of our food and our planet's future. The film showcases inspiring people, ideas, and initiatives around the United States, connecting audiences with personal stories of change and proving that individual actions, in fact, do matter.
The film is directed by Ana Joanes, a Swiss-born documentary filmmaker whose work addresses pressing social issues through character-driven narratives. After traveling internationally to study the environmental and cultural impacts of globalization, she graduated from Columbia Law School in May 2000, awarded as a Stone Scholar and Human Rights Fellow. Thereafter, Ana created Reel Youth, a video production program for youth coming out of detention. In 2003, Ana and her friend Andrew Unger produced Generation Meds, a documentary exploring our fears and misgivings about mental illness and medication. FRESH is Ana's second feature documentary.
A presentation of Racine's own efforts to sustain a local food system will be offered by Racine Urban Garden Network (RUGN) following the film. RUGN is local community organization promoting urban gardening and seeking to increase consumption of foods from local sources through sustainable gardening and farming in the Racine area. It also seeks to improve our nutrition and environment in our communities through education and collaboration. RUGN serves as a central point to connect individuals and organizations that each have visions for their own gardens, and to find available land and resources for people to start gardening projects.
FRESH celebrates the farmers, thinkers and business people across America who are re-inventing our food system. Forging healthier, sustainable alternatives, they offer a practical vision of our food and our planet's future. The film showcases inspiring people, ideas, and initiatives around the United States, connecting audiences with personal stories of change and proving that individual actions, in fact, do matter.
The film is directed by Ana Joanes, a Swiss-born documentary filmmaker whose work addresses pressing social issues through character-driven narratives. After traveling internationally to study the environmental and cultural impacts of globalization, she graduated from Columbia Law School in May 2000, awarded as a Stone Scholar and Human Rights Fellow. Thereafter, Ana created Reel Youth, a video production program for youth coming out of detention. In 2003, Ana and her friend Andrew Unger produced Generation Meds, a documentary exploring our fears and misgivings about mental illness and medication. FRESH is Ana's second feature documentary.
A presentation of Racine's own efforts to sustain a local food system will be offered by Racine Urban Garden Network (RUGN) following the film. RUGN is local community organization promoting urban gardening and seeking to increase consumption of foods from local sources through sustainable gardening and farming in the Racine area. It also seeks to improve our nutrition and environment in our communities through education and collaboration. RUGN serves as a central point to connect individuals and organizations that each have visions for their own gardens, and to find available land and resources for people to start gardening projects.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Wednesday, March 4: Library Hosts Racism Movie & Discussion
The community is invited to attend another program in the "Coming Together Racine" series of movie screenings and discussions about racism and race relations at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., on Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. (NOTE: new time, due to change in library's hours).
Alice Paul (Hilary Swank) and Lucy Burns (Frances O'Connor) were activists who broke from the mainstream women's-rights movement and created a more radical segment, daring to push the boundaries of political protest to secure women's voting rights in 1920.
Although the women had widely different personalities and backgrounds, they were united in their fierce devotion to women's suffrage. In a country dominated by chauvinism, the women battled public opinion in a tumultuous time of war and faced some of the most powerful men in the country, including President Woodrow Wilson (Bob Gunton). The women and their volunteers also came up against opposition from older more conservative activists such as Carrie Chapman Catt (Angelica Huston).
Thrown in jail for their efforts, the women make headline news with an ensuing hunger strike. Their resistance to being force-fed earns them the nickname "The Iron Jawed Angels." However, it is their iron wills and their indomitable courage that inspired a nation and changed it forever. A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund. Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
Alice Paul (Hilary Swank) and Lucy Burns (Frances O'Connor) were activists who broke from the mainstream women's-rights movement and created a more radical segment, daring to push the boundaries of political protest to secure women's voting rights in 1920.
Although the women had widely different personalities and backgrounds, they were united in their fierce devotion to women's suffrage. In a country dominated by chauvinism, the women battled public opinion in a tumultuous time of war and faced some of the most powerful men in the country, including President Woodrow Wilson (Bob Gunton). The women and their volunteers also came up against opposition from older more conservative activists such as Carrie Chapman Catt (Angelica Huston).
Thrown in jail for their efforts, the women make headline news with an ensuing hunger strike. Their resistance to being force-fed earns them the nickname "The Iron Jawed Angels." However, it is their iron wills and their indomitable courage that inspired a nation and changed it forever. A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund. Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
- Promote racial harmony in the community;
- Educate community members on racism and its effects on people and the community; and
- Bring people together to foster awareness and appreciation of people of all cultures.
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Wednesday, February 4: Library Hosts Racism Movie & Discussion
The community is invited to attend another program in the "Coming Together Racine" series of movie screenings and discussions about racism and race relations at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., on Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at 5:30 p.m (NOTE: new time, due to change in library's hours).
The Balkan conflict of the 1990s is still having strong ramifications for the residents of Sarajevo even after all these years. A single mother, Esma (Mirjana Karanovic), struggles to raise her 12-year-old daughter, Sara (Luna Mijovic), in the city where there is a distinct lack of job opportunities. Meanwhile, Sara must put up with the taunting of her classmates when she and her mother are too poor to pay for a special school trip. However, surviving through these hardships will bring Esma and Sara closer together.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
The Balkan conflict of the 1990s is still having strong ramifications for the residents of Sarajevo even after all these years. A single mother, Esma (Mirjana Karanovic), struggles to raise her 12-year-old daughter, Sara (Luna Mijovic), in the city where there is a distinct lack of job opportunities. Meanwhile, Sara must put up with the taunting of her classmates when she and her mother are too poor to pay for a special school trip. However, surviving through these hardships will bring Esma and Sara closer together.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
- Promote racial harmony in the community;
- Educate community members on racism and its effects on people and the community; and
- Bring people together to foster awareness and appreciation of people of all cultures.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Saturday, January 10: Saturday Cultural Film at Java Vino
Local film enthusiasts are invited to attend monthly Cultural Film nights at JavaVino to preview some of the Racine Public Library's collection of intriguing foreign films. JavaVino hosts the free screenings on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 5-7 p.m. Appetizers, wine and coffee are available for purchase during the film. Participants are encouraged to then visit Downtown Racine's finest restaurants for dinner.
The next film in the series will be shown on Saturday, Jan. 10 at 5 p.m. This month's feature is "The Bothersome Man" from Norway. In this film, forty-year-old Andreas arrives in a strange city with no memory of how he got there. He is presented with a job, an apartment, a wife, and the uncomfortable feeling that something is very wrong. Andreas makes an attempt to escape the city, but discovers there's no way out. After meeting Hugo, who has found a crack in a wall in his cellar from which beautiful music streams out, a new plan for escape is hatched.
"The Bothersome Man," directed by talented moviemaker Jens Liens, is a multiple award winner at international film festivals. Full of cool nightmare imagery, the film is reminiscent of such science-fiction works as Fritz Lang's "Metropolis" and Andrew Niccol's "Gattaca," among others.
Because these films are not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend them for children under age 17.
The next film in the series will be shown on Saturday, Jan. 10 at 5 p.m. This month's feature is "The Bothersome Man" from Norway. In this film, forty-year-old Andreas arrives in a strange city with no memory of how he got there. He is presented with a job, an apartment, a wife, and the uncomfortable feeling that something is very wrong. Andreas makes an attempt to escape the city, but discovers there's no way out. After meeting Hugo, who has found a crack in a wall in his cellar from which beautiful music streams out, a new plan for escape is hatched.
"The Bothersome Man," directed by talented moviemaker Jens Liens, is a multiple award winner at international film festivals. Full of cool nightmare imagery, the film is reminiscent of such science-fiction works as Fritz Lang's "Metropolis" and Andrew Niccol's "Gattaca," among others.
Because these films are not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend them for children under age 17.
Wednesday, January 7: Library Hosts Racism Movie & Discussion
The community is invited to attend another program in the "Coming Together Racine" series of movie screenings and discussions about racism and race relations at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., on Wednesday, January 7, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. (NOTE: new time, due to change in library's hours).
The film, based on a true story, revolves around the efforts of debate coach Melvin B. Tolson (Denzel Washington) at historically black Wiley College to place his team on equal footing with whites in the American South during the 1930s, when Jim Crow laws were common and lynch mobs were a pervasive fear for blacks. In the movie, the Wiley team eventually succeeds to the point where they are able to debate Harvard University. The movie also explores small-town Texas during the Depression including not only the day-to-day insults and slights African Americans endured, but also a lynching. James L. Farmer Jr., at 14 years of age, was on Wiley's debate team after completing high school (and who later went on to co-found C.O.R.E., the Congress of Racial Equality). The only female member of the team, Samantha Booke, is based on the real individual Henrietta Bell Wells. Melvin B. Tolson is a major African American poet whose papers are housed at the Library of Congresss.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine
Coming Together Racine will work to:
The film, based on a true story, revolves around the efforts of debate coach Melvin B. Tolson (Denzel Washington) at historically black Wiley College to place his team on equal footing with whites in the American South during the 1930s, when Jim Crow laws were common and lynch mobs were a pervasive fear for blacks. In the movie, the Wiley team eventually succeeds to the point where they are able to debate Harvard University. The movie also explores small-town Texas during the Depression including not only the day-to-day insults and slights African Americans endured, but also a lynching. James L. Farmer Jr., at 14 years of age, was on Wiley's debate team after completing high school (and who later went on to co-found C.O.R.E., the Congress of Racial Equality). The only female member of the team, Samantha Booke, is based on the real individual Henrietta Bell Wells. Melvin B. Tolson is a major African American poet whose papers are housed at the Library of Congresss.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine
Coming Together Racine will work to:
- Promote racial harmony in the community;
- Educate community members on racism and its effects on people and the community; and
- Bring people together to foster awareness and appreciation of people of all cultures.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
EVENTS AT THE RACINE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Racine – Take some time out from holiday preparations to enjoy these cultural events being offered by the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St.
Cultural Film Series –Join fellow film enthusiasts at Java Vino, 424 Main St., to preview some of the Racine Public Library's collection of intriguing cultural films. JavaVino offers appetizers, wine and coffee for purchase during the film. Participants are encouraged to then visit Downtown Racine's finest restaurants for dinner. Next film in the series:
December 13; 5-7 p.m. – The Island – Russian
"Somewhere in Northern Russia in a small Russian Orthodox monastery lives a very unusual man. His fellow-monks are confused by his bizarre conduct. Those who visit the island believe that the man has the power to heal, exorcise demons and foretell the future. However, he considers himself unworthy because of a sin he committed in his youth. The film is a parable, combining the realities of Russian everyday life with monastic ritual and routine."
Holiday Choral Concert – Join us for some midday holiday cheer at the Library as Park High School shares their vocal talents with us in this 30 minute Holiday Choral Concert on Thursday, December 18 from 2:00-2:30 p.m. in the Youth Services Dept. Performing traditional carols and other songs of the season will be the Park High School Women's Concert Chorale and Panther Choir under the direction of Heather Skaggs.
Poetry Roundtable - Teen and adult poetry enthusiasts unite monthly at Java Vino, 424 Main St., to discuss contemporary American poetry, highlighting a different poet at each meeting. As a group, participants read poetry excerpts, analyze them and discuss their significance in today's society. Individuals with varying levels of poetry experience are welcome. On Thursday, December 18, from 7-9 p.m. at Java Vino, Poetry Roundtable will examine the works of one of the most innovative and influential figures of 20th Century poetry: John Giorno. Giorno's exhaustively accomplished career spanning forty years features, among other things, a personal memoir of poetry entitled, You Got To Burn To Shine (Serpent's Tail, 1994). He is the creator of the Giorno Poetry Systems, founded in 1965, an organization that has innovated the use of technology in poetry, connecting poetry with many new audiences. He also pioneered the hugely successful Dial-a-poem project and the 1984 AIDS Treatment Project.
BONK III - The 3rd event for the Racine Public Library's new "BONK!" performance series will take place on Saturday, December 20 at 6 p.m. 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.
This month's featured performances include a reading from Milwaukee poet Chuck Stebelton, new work from local teen artists, writers and video artists from the Main Gallery program, and other super-secret featured performers
Chuck Stebelton works as Literary Program Manager at Woodland Pattern Book Center. He is the author of Circulation Flowers (TougherDisguises, 2005) and Precious, an Answer Tag chapbook. Newer work appears in recent issues of Antennae, Jubilat, LVNG, Verse, and Chain 12: Facts. He recently collaborated with Cindy Loehr on Revival, "a cathedral of flame with a pre-recorded oration inside." For more information on his recently released title Circulation Flowers visit http://www.tougherdisguises.com/books.html
Main Gallery is a summer program that provides meaningful employment in the arts for young people (14-19) of Racine. The young artists work in a variety of media to create works of art that will be auctioned off at the annual Chair-i-ties fundraising event in August. All proceeds from Chair-i-ties go back into the MG program for the following summer. Started in 1995 Main Gallery is modeled after the nationally acclaimed Gallery 37 in Chicago.
Each BONK! performance features a short question and answer session with the artists. 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 please contact the organizers at http://bonkperformanceseries.wordpress.com. You may also contact the Racine Public Library at 262.619.2571 or Becky Spika at becky.spika@racinelibrary.info and Nick Demske at nick.demske@racinelibrary.info.
Cultural Film Series –Join fellow film enthusiasts at Java Vino, 424 Main St., to preview some of the Racine Public Library's collection of intriguing cultural films. JavaVino offers appetizers, wine and coffee for purchase during the film. Participants are encouraged to then visit Downtown Racine's finest restaurants for dinner. Next film in the series:
December 13; 5-7 p.m. – The Island – Russian
"Somewhere in Northern Russia in a small Russian Orthodox monastery lives a very unusual man. His fellow-monks are confused by his bizarre conduct. Those who visit the island believe that the man has the power to heal, exorcise demons and foretell the future. However, he considers himself unworthy because of a sin he committed in his youth. The film is a parable, combining the realities of Russian everyday life with monastic ritual and routine."
Holiday Choral Concert – Join us for some midday holiday cheer at the Library as Park High School shares their vocal talents with us in this 30 minute Holiday Choral Concert on Thursday, December 18 from 2:00-2:30 p.m. in the Youth Services Dept. Performing traditional carols and other songs of the season will be the Park High School Women's Concert Chorale and Panther Choir under the direction of Heather Skaggs.
Poetry Roundtable - Teen and adult poetry enthusiasts unite monthly at Java Vino, 424 Main St., to discuss contemporary American poetry, highlighting a different poet at each meeting. As a group, participants read poetry excerpts, analyze them and discuss their significance in today's society. Individuals with varying levels of poetry experience are welcome. On Thursday, December 18, from 7-9 p.m. at Java Vino, Poetry Roundtable will examine the works of one of the most innovative and influential figures of 20th Century poetry: John Giorno. Giorno's exhaustively accomplished career spanning forty years features, among other things, a personal memoir of poetry entitled, You Got To Burn To Shine (Serpent's Tail, 1994). He is the creator of the Giorno Poetry Systems, founded in 1965, an organization that has innovated the use of technology in poetry, connecting poetry with many new audiences. He also pioneered the hugely successful Dial-a-poem project and the 1984 AIDS Treatment Project.
BONK III - The 3rd event for the Racine Public Library's new "BONK!" performance series will take place on Saturday, December 20 at 6 p.m. 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.
This month's featured performances include a reading from Milwaukee poet Chuck Stebelton, new work from local teen artists, writers and video artists from the Main Gallery program, and other super-secret featured performers
Chuck Stebelton works as Literary Program Manager at Woodland Pattern Book Center. He is the author of Circulation Flowers (TougherDisguises, 2005) and Precious, an Answer Tag chapbook. Newer work appears in recent issues of Antennae, Jubilat, LVNG, Verse, and Chain 12: Facts. He recently collaborated with Cindy Loehr on Revival, "a cathedral of flame with a pre-recorded oration inside." For more information on his recently released title Circulation Flowers visit http://www.tougherdisguises.com/books.html
Main Gallery is a summer program that provides meaningful employment in the arts for young people (14-19) of Racine. The young artists work in a variety of media to create works of art that will be auctioned off at the annual Chair-i-ties fundraising event in August. All proceeds from Chair-i-ties go back into the MG program for the following summer. Started in 1995 Main Gallery is modeled after the nationally acclaimed Gallery 37 in Chicago.
Each BONK! performance features a short question and answer session with the artists. 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 please contact the organizers at http://bonkperformanceseries.wordpress.com. You may also contact the Racine Public Library at 262.619.2571 or Becky Spika at becky.spika@racinelibrary.info and Nick Demske at nick.demske@racinelibrary.info.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
LIBRARY EVENTS AT JAVA VINO
The Racine Public Library offers several collaborative programs in partnership with JavaVino, 424 Main St. in Downtown Racine.
• Cultural Film Series – Join fellow film enthusiasts to preview some of the Racine Public Library's collection of intriguing cultural flms as JavaVino hosts free screenings on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 5-7 p.m. JavaVino offers appetizers, wine and coffee for purchase during the film. Participants are encouraged to then visit Downtown Racine's finest restaurants for dinner. The following films will be shown for December-February
December 13 – The Island - Russian
January 10 – The Bothersome Man - Norway
February 14 - The Grocer's Son - France
Because these films are not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend them for children under age 17.
• Poetry Roundtable - Teen and adult poetry enthusiasts unite monthly on the 3rd Thursday from 7-9 p.m. 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 in today's society. Individuals with varying levels of poetry experience are welcome. Visit the library's Poetry Roundtable webpage at racinelibrary.info for information about each month's selected poet, interviews, criticisms, poetry and more.
• Saturday Stories - Families of children ages 8 and younger are invited to spend select Saturday mornings from Dec-Feb with storytellers from the Racine Public Library at JavaVino. The next events will be held Dec. 6, Jan. 17, Feb. 7 & 21 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and will feature storytelling with a simple craft. Enjoy a relaxing morning of breakfast fun with your children. This is a free event and no registration is necessary.
• Cultural Film Series – Join fellow film enthusiasts to preview some of the Racine Public Library's collection of intriguing cultural flms as JavaVino hosts free screenings on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 5-7 p.m. JavaVino offers appetizers, wine and coffee for purchase during the film. Participants are encouraged to then visit Downtown Racine's finest restaurants for dinner. The following films will be shown for December-February
December 13 – The Island - Russian
January 10 – The Bothersome Man - Norway
February 14 - The Grocer's Son - France
Because these films are not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend them for children under age 17.
• Poetry Roundtable - Teen and adult poetry enthusiasts unite monthly on the 3rd Thursday from 7-9 p.m. 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 in today's society. Individuals with varying levels of poetry experience are welcome. Visit the library's Poetry Roundtable webpage at racinelibrary.info for information about each month's selected poet, interviews, criticisms, poetry and more.
• Saturday Stories - Families of children ages 8 and younger are invited to spend select Saturday mornings from Dec-Feb with storytellers from the Racine Public Library at JavaVino. The next events will be held Dec. 6, Jan. 17, Feb. 7 & 21 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and will feature storytelling with a simple craft. Enjoy a relaxing morning of breakfast fun with your children. This is a free event and no registration is necessary.
LIBRARY HOSTS RACISM MOVIE AND DISCUSSION
The community is invited to attend another program in the "Coming Together Racine" series of movie screenings and discussions about racism and race relations at the Racine Public Library on Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at 5:30 p.m (NOTE: new time, due to change in library's hours). The library will be showing the film, Bread and Roses.
Directed by Ken Loach and starring Pilar Padilla, Adrien Brody, and Elpidia Carrillo (who won an ALMA award for her performance), this film is about undocumented service workers. Maya arrives at the LA home of her older sister Rosa after crossing the border without papers. Rosa gets Maya a job as a janitor. A non-union janitorial service has the contract, a foul-mouthed supervisor can fire workers on a whim, and the service-workers' union has assigned organizer Sam Shapiro to bring its "justice for janitors" campaign to the building. The workers try for public support; management intimidates workers to divide and conquer. Rosa and Maya as well as workers and management may be set to collide.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
Directed by Ken Loach and starring Pilar Padilla, Adrien Brody, and Elpidia Carrillo (who won an ALMA award for her performance), this film is about undocumented service workers. Maya arrives at the LA home of her older sister Rosa after crossing the border without papers. Rosa gets Maya a job as a janitor. A non-union janitorial service has the contract, a foul-mouthed supervisor can fire workers on a whim, and the service-workers' union has assigned organizer Sam Shapiro to bring its "justice for janitors" campaign to the building. The workers try for public support; management intimidates workers to divide and conquer. Rosa and Maya as well as workers and management may be set to collide.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
- Promote racial harmony in the community;
- Educate community members on racism and its effects on people and the community; and
- Bring people together to foster awareness and appreciation of people of all cultures.
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
LIBRARY HOSTS RACISM MOVIE AND DISCUSSION
The community is invited to attend another program in the "Coming Together Racine" series of movie screenings and discussions about racism and race relations at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., on Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at 5:30 p.m (NOTE: new time, due to change in library's hours).
Gene Hackman and Frances McDormand were nominated for Oscars, along with director Alan Parker, in this outstanding 1989 story of FBI agents in Mississippi investigating the recent disappearance of two white civil rights workers and their African-American companion. Agents Anderson and Ward work against each other more frequently than they work together as they battle to find the truth in a hostile and increasingly volatile environment. Agent Ward is twenty years younger than Anderson, but has risen higher in the FBI hierarchy through an idealistic adherence to protocol. Agent Anderson joined the FBI late in life, after years of working as a small town sheriff in a rural Mississippi border town. Anderson and Ward seek to overcome the formidable challenge posed by a conspiracy of silence, hatred, and bigotry from diametrically opposed backgrounds and perspectives, but their respect for each other grows as they discover that neither has an exclusive hold on the truth. The evolution of understanding between the southern-bred, obstinate veteran agent and his northern-born partner are a microcosm of the nation's potential for hope. This movie received Oscars for Best Film Editing (Gerry Hambling) and Best Cinematography (Peter Biziou).
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
§ Promote racial harmony in the community;
§ Educate community members on racism and its effects on people and the community; and
§ Bring people together to foster awareness and appreciation of people of all cultures.
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
Gene Hackman and Frances McDormand were nominated for Oscars, along with director Alan Parker, in this outstanding 1989 story of FBI agents in Mississippi investigating the recent disappearance of two white civil rights workers and their African-American companion. Agents Anderson and Ward work against each other more frequently than they work together as they battle to find the truth in a hostile and increasingly volatile environment. Agent Ward is twenty years younger than Anderson, but has risen higher in the FBI hierarchy through an idealistic adherence to protocol. Agent Anderson joined the FBI late in life, after years of working as a small town sheriff in a rural Mississippi border town. Anderson and Ward seek to overcome the formidable challenge posed by a conspiracy of silence, hatred, and bigotry from diametrically opposed backgrounds and perspectives, but their respect for each other grows as they discover that neither has an exclusive hold on the truth. The evolution of understanding between the southern-bred, obstinate veteran agent and his northern-born partner are a microcosm of the nation's potential for hope. This movie received Oscars for Best Film Editing (Gerry Hambling) and Best Cinematography (Peter Biziou).
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
§ Promote racial harmony in the community;
§ Educate community members on racism and its effects on people and the community; and
§ Bring people together to foster awareness and appreciation of people of all cultures.
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
LIBRARY CULTURAL FILM SCREENING @ JAVA VINO
The Racine Public Library is pleased to offer the community the opportunity to view some of the best cultural films in its collection. Join fellow film enthusiasts at JavaVino, 424 Main St., for free screenings of award-winning films from around the world one Saturday of each month.
November's film selection, being shown on Saturday, Nov. 1 from 5-7 p.m., is Dreams of Dust, a French drama, written and directed by Laurent Salgues, with cinematography by Crystel Fornier, and starring Makena Diop and Fatou Tall-Salgues. Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival, this film tells the story of Mocktar, a Nigerian peasant looking for work in a dusty gold mine in Northeast Burkina Faso, Africa and trying to forget a haunting past. His path collides with Coumba, a mother trying to raise her daughter after the death of her family.
Variety says, "Salgues' screenplay is perfectly crafted in the Western tradition, while Crystel Fournier's striking cinematography connects the film to a broad African vision..."
From Eye For Film: "The cinematography is stunning and director Laurent Salgues camera drinks up the landscape, capturing its desolation which is mirrored in Mocktar's soul. Diop and Tall-Salgues put in beautifully understated performances…in the hard-labor of the wind-swept landscape, a glance speaks a thousand words."
Because this film is not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend it for children under age 17.
November's film selection, being shown on Saturday, Nov. 1 from 5-7 p.m., is Dreams of Dust, a French drama, written and directed by Laurent Salgues, with cinematography by Crystel Fornier, and starring Makena Diop and Fatou Tall-Salgues. Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival, this film tells the story of Mocktar, a Nigerian peasant looking for work in a dusty gold mine in Northeast Burkina Faso, Africa and trying to forget a haunting past. His path collides with Coumba, a mother trying to raise her daughter after the death of her family.
Variety says, "Salgues' screenplay is perfectly crafted in the Western tradition, while Crystel Fournier's striking cinematography connects the film to a broad African vision..."
From Eye For Film: "The cinematography is stunning and director Laurent Salgues camera drinks up the landscape, capturing its desolation which is mirrored in Mocktar's soul. Diop and Tall-Salgues put in beautifully understated performances…in the hard-labor of the wind-swept landscape, a glance speaks a thousand words."
Because this film is not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend it for children under age 17.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Nosferatu Preconcert Event at the Library
What better way to experience the drama of Halloween than through the classic silent film Nosfertau? On Oct. 31-Nov. 1, the Choral Arts Society of Southeastern Wisconsin will be performing a unique, original and unforgettable theatrical version of this 1922 silent film at the Dekoven Center. Concert goers are invited to attend a Pre-Concert event at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., on Thursday, Oct. 23 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nosferatu composer Karel Suchy and Choral Arts Society conductor and artistic director James Schatzman will discuss the original music composition and the theatrical process of putting together this unique production. Excerpts from Murnau's 1922 silent film will also be shown. The Pre-Concert event is free and open to the public; no registration is necessary. This is a valuable opportunity to meet the creative minds behind this world premiere event.
The Choral Arts Society of Southeastern Wisconsin will premiere the original tone poem, being presented with the silent film, on Friday, Oct. 31 at 8:00 PM and Saturday, Nov. 1 at 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM at the DeKoven Center's Great Hall, 600 21st St. in Racine. Costumes will be permitted and "treats" available.
This specially commissioned work, composed and arranged by Karel Suchy, features choral singing, speaking, and acoustic and electronic instruments. The score draws on a wide variety of musical styles, including early modal music, modern classical, Appalachian hymnody and rock ballad. CAS will display its flexibility and musicality as it interprets this diverse composition. Emotional, dramatic and philosophical elements of the film are articulated through techniques such as the overlay of traditional Croft "Burial Sentences" on newly composed passages, the use of a folk "modified gypsy" scale, and the combination of live with concrete music (a montage of recorded natural sounds).
German director F. W. Murnau's silent film Nosferatu was based on Bram Stoker's novel Dracula. The first to deal with an occult subject, this expressionist film is distinguished by its introduction of innovative techniques, such as filming on location, and the use of montage. As film critic Roger Ebert has stated, "Nosferatu . . . doesn't scare us, but it haunts us. It shows not that vampires can jump out of shadows, but that evil can grow there, nourished on death."
Local composer and CAS singer Karel Suchy, born in the Czech Republic in 1953, studied piano, organ and composition at Prague's Jazz Conservatory, then earned his M.S. in Engineering. He led and composed for two avant-garde and modern jazz groups. Prior to his escape from communism in 1979, he won awards for composition, including the Prague Jazz Festival. He is founder and director of musical group, "Voices and Verses" and Director of Music at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Racine, WI. CAS performed his arrangement of "Sweet Mary sings her Babe to Sleep" in 2004.
The Choral Arts Society of Southeastern Wisconsin has been performing under the direction of James Schatzman for 22 years. Over 60 singers comprise this volunteer community chorus, dedicated to performing master choral works, presenting musical outreach programs and enriching the cultural environment of the region. The CAS repertoire has included major classical choral works, operettas, show tunes, gospel and original works by contemporary composers, some of them local.
The Choral Arts Society production is supported in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Nosferatu composer Karel Suchy and Choral Arts Society conductor and artistic director James Schatzman will discuss the original music composition and the theatrical process of putting together this unique production. Excerpts from Murnau's 1922 silent film will also be shown. The Pre-Concert event is free and open to the public; no registration is necessary. This is a valuable opportunity to meet the creative minds behind this world premiere event.
The Choral Arts Society of Southeastern Wisconsin will premiere the original tone poem, being presented with the silent film, on Friday, Oct. 31 at 8:00 PM and Saturday, Nov. 1 at 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM at the DeKoven Center's Great Hall, 600 21st St. in Racine. Costumes will be permitted and "treats" available.
This specially commissioned work, composed and arranged by Karel Suchy, features choral singing, speaking, and acoustic and electronic instruments. The score draws on a wide variety of musical styles, including early modal music, modern classical, Appalachian hymnody and rock ballad. CAS will display its flexibility and musicality as it interprets this diverse composition. Emotional, dramatic and philosophical elements of the film are articulated through techniques such as the overlay of traditional Croft "Burial Sentences" on newly composed passages, the use of a folk "modified gypsy" scale, and the combination of live with concrete music (a montage of recorded natural sounds).
German director F. W. Murnau's silent film Nosferatu was based on Bram Stoker's novel Dracula. The first to deal with an occult subject, this expressionist film is distinguished by its introduction of innovative techniques, such as filming on location, and the use of montage. As film critic Roger Ebert has stated, "Nosferatu . . . doesn't scare us, but it haunts us. It shows not that vampires can jump out of shadows, but that evil can grow there, nourished on death."
Local composer and CAS singer Karel Suchy, born in the Czech Republic in 1953, studied piano, organ and composition at Prague's Jazz Conservatory, then earned his M.S. in Engineering. He led and composed for two avant-garde and modern jazz groups. Prior to his escape from communism in 1979, he won awards for composition, including the Prague Jazz Festival. He is founder and director of musical group, "Voices and Verses" and Director of Music at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Racine, WI. CAS performed his arrangement of "Sweet Mary sings her Babe to Sleep" in 2004.
The Choral Arts Society of Southeastern Wisconsin has been performing under the direction of James Schatzman for 22 years. Over 60 singers comprise this volunteer community chorus, dedicated to performing master choral works, presenting musical outreach programs and enriching the cultural environment of the region. The CAS repertoire has included major classical choral works, operettas, show tunes, gospel and original works by contemporary composers, some of them local.
The Choral Arts Society production is supported in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
LIBRARY CULTURAL FILM SCREENING @ JAVA VINO
Racine – The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., offers a vast selection of award-winning cultural films to its patrons. Join fellow film enthusiasts to preview some of this collection as JavaVino, 424 Main St., hosts free screenings on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 5-7 p.m.
October’s film selection, being shown on Saturday, Oct. 11, is Arranged, a cultural drama from the USA, directed by Diane Crespo and Stefan C. Schaefer. Winner of the Best Film Feature in the Brooklyn International Film Festival, this film offers a touching and often hilarious look at two women from very different cultures with much in common, not the least of which are their upcoming “arranged” marriages.
NYC Movie Guide says, “Zoe Lister Jones and Frances Benhamou both give convincing performances that keep you engrossed in the story. The well-written screenplay by Stefan Shaefer breathes life into each character so that neither is one-note—nobody comes across as truly bad or over-the-top...It's very rare to find such a simple story with serious issues as friendship, true love, intolerance and prejudice, yet with an uplifting and hopeful message about how two people from seemingly different backgrounds can have so much in common by just getting to know one another. If everyone in the world were apply this to their own lives, perhaps there would be at least the chance for world peace.
Because this film is not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend it for children under age 17.
JavaVino offers appetizers, wine and coffee for purchase during the film. Participants are encouraged to then visit Downtown Racine’s finest restaurants for dinner.
October’s film selection, being shown on Saturday, Oct. 11, is Arranged, a cultural drama from the USA, directed by Diane Crespo and Stefan C. Schaefer. Winner of the Best Film Feature in the Brooklyn International Film Festival, this film offers a touching and often hilarious look at two women from very different cultures with much in common, not the least of which are their upcoming “arranged” marriages.
NYC Movie Guide says, “Zoe Lister Jones and Frances Benhamou both give convincing performances that keep you engrossed in the story. The well-written screenplay by Stefan Shaefer breathes life into each character so that neither is one-note—nobody comes across as truly bad or over-the-top...It's very rare to find such a simple story with serious issues as friendship, true love, intolerance and prejudice, yet with an uplifting and hopeful message about how two people from seemingly different backgrounds can have so much in common by just getting to know one another. If everyone in the world were apply this to their own lives, perhaps there would be at least the chance for world peace.
Because this film is not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend it for children under age 17.
JavaVino offers appetizers, wine and coffee for purchase during the film. Participants are encouraged to then visit Downtown Racine’s finest restaurants for dinner.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
September 28 - October 4: Banned Books Week: Celebrating the Freedom to Read
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., is hosting several events celebrating basic American rights during Banned Books Week, September 28-October 4. Celebrating the Freedom to Read is observed during the last week of September each year. Observed since 1982, the annual event reminds Americans not to take this precious democratic freedom for granted. The public is invited to view book displays and attend these free events at the library:
Monday, Sept. 29: Voter Registration Day – In preparation for the upcoming Presidential election in November, non-Partisan deputies certified by the State of Wisconsin will be on hand from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. at the library to register any Wisconsin residents to vote. A valid WI driver's license or Wisconsin State ID is required. A one-page voter registration form will be available for completion on site. All forms will be submitted to the state by the deputies.
Tuesday, Sept. 30: Adventures in Stories – The Youth Services Dept. will host this storytime for families with kids ages 5-10 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. The program will feature stories you may be surprised to find were on the challenged list and a "Freedom of Expression" craft.
Wednesday, Oct. 1: Coming Together Racine Movie Night, 6-9 p.m., features a screening and discussion of "Resurrecting the Champ," the story of up-and-coming sports reporter Josh Hartnett and the boxing legend he rescues from homelessness. During his quest to resurrect Champ's story, the ambitious reporter reexamines his own life and his relationship with his family. Not recommended for children under age 17.
Thurs. - Sat., Oct. 2-4: First Amendment Film Festival, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Three intriguing documentaries about basic American rights.
*Thursday, Oct. 2: "The First Amendment Project: What's Left of Our Rights?" – A highly innovative anthology from a group of award-winning indie filmmakers. First Amendment rights are explored through headline-grabbing moments when our Constitution's integrity has been tested. Challenging viewers to examine their understanding of civil liberties, these films masterfully illustrate when unpopular expression ran against prevailing attitudes and powerful interests.
*Friday, Oct. 3: "Smothered: The Censorship Struggles of the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour" – This incredible slice of America's media and pop-culture history reveals how this groundbreaking television program became a hot bed of controversy during its broadcast days from 1967- to 1969. Tom and Dick Smothers pioneered a turning point in American television history, using friendly folk music and wholesome charm to bring a new brand of political commentary to the American public.
*Saturday, Oct. 4: "Iron Jawed Angels" – A fresh and contemporary look at a pivotal event in American history. This film tells the true story of how defiant and brilliant young activists Alice Paul and Lucy Burns took the women's suffrage movement by storm, putting their lives at risk to help American women win the right to vote.
Banned Books Week is sponsored by the American Booksellers Association, the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression, the American Library Association (ALA), the Association of American Publishers, the American Society of Journalists and Authors and the National Association of College Stores. The Library of Congress Center for the Book endorses it.
Many bookstores and libraries across the nation join in the celebration with displays and readings of books that have been banned or threatened throughout history. These include works ranging from the Bible to John Steinbeck's "Of Mice and Men."
Each year, the American Library Association's (ALA) Office for Intellectual Freedom receives hundreds of reports on books and other materials that were "challenged" (their removal from school or library shelves was requested). The ALA estimates the number represents only about a quarter of the actual challenges. "Most Challenged" titles include the popular "Harry Potter" series of fantasy books for children by J.K. Rowling. The series drew complaints from parents and others who believe the books promote witchcraft to children.
The challenges reported reflect a continuing concern with a wide variety of themes. Other "Most Challenged" titles include "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain, for its use of language, particularly references to race; "It's Perfectly Normal," a sex education book by Robie Harris, for being too explicit, especially for children; and "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou, for the description of rape she suffered as a child.
For more information about challenged books, contact the Office for Intellectual Freedom at 800-545-2433, ext. 4223, send e-mail to oif@ala.org.
For more information about Banned Books Week programming at the Racine Public Library, call 262.636.9217 or email becky.spika@racinelibrary.info.
Monday, Sept. 29: Voter Registration Day – In preparation for the upcoming Presidential election in November, non-Partisan deputies certified by the State of Wisconsin will be on hand from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. at the library to register any Wisconsin residents to vote. A valid WI driver's license or Wisconsin State ID is required. A one-page voter registration form will be available for completion on site. All forms will be submitted to the state by the deputies.
Tuesday, Sept. 30: Adventures in Stories – The Youth Services Dept. will host this storytime for families with kids ages 5-10 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. The program will feature stories you may be surprised to find were on the challenged list and a "Freedom of Expression" craft.
Wednesday, Oct. 1: Coming Together Racine Movie Night, 6-9 p.m., features a screening and discussion of "Resurrecting the Champ," the story of up-and-coming sports reporter Josh Hartnett and the boxing legend he rescues from homelessness. During his quest to resurrect Champ's story, the ambitious reporter reexamines his own life and his relationship with his family. Not recommended for children under age 17.
Thurs. - Sat., Oct. 2-4: First Amendment Film Festival, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Three intriguing documentaries about basic American rights.
*Thursday, Oct. 2: "The First Amendment Project: What's Left of Our Rights?" – A highly innovative anthology from a group of award-winning indie filmmakers. First Amendment rights are explored through headline-grabbing moments when our Constitution's integrity has been tested. Challenging viewers to examine their understanding of civil liberties, these films masterfully illustrate when unpopular expression ran against prevailing attitudes and powerful interests.
*Friday, Oct. 3: "Smothered: The Censorship Struggles of the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour" – This incredible slice of America's media and pop-culture history reveals how this groundbreaking television program became a hot bed of controversy during its broadcast days from 1967- to 1969. Tom and Dick Smothers pioneered a turning point in American television history, using friendly folk music and wholesome charm to bring a new brand of political commentary to the American public.
*Saturday, Oct. 4: "Iron Jawed Angels" – A fresh and contemporary look at a pivotal event in American history. This film tells the true story of how defiant and brilliant young activists Alice Paul and Lucy Burns took the women's suffrage movement by storm, putting their lives at risk to help American women win the right to vote.
Banned Books Week is sponsored by the American Booksellers Association, the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression, the American Library Association (ALA), the Association of American Publishers, the American Society of Journalists and Authors and the National Association of College Stores. The Library of Congress Center for the Book endorses it.
Many bookstores and libraries across the nation join in the celebration with displays and readings of books that have been banned or threatened throughout history. These include works ranging from the Bible to John Steinbeck's "Of Mice and Men."
Each year, the American Library Association's (ALA) Office for Intellectual Freedom receives hundreds of reports on books and other materials that were "challenged" (their removal from school or library shelves was requested). The ALA estimates the number represents only about a quarter of the actual challenges. "Most Challenged" titles include the popular "Harry Potter" series of fantasy books for children by J.K. Rowling. The series drew complaints from parents and others who believe the books promote witchcraft to children.
The challenges reported reflect a continuing concern with a wide variety of themes. Other "Most Challenged" titles include "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain, for its use of language, particularly references to race; "It's Perfectly Normal," a sex education book by Robie Harris, for being too explicit, especially for children; and "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou, for the description of rape she suffered as a child.
For more information about challenged books, contact the Office for Intellectual Freedom at 800-545-2433, ext. 4223, send e-mail to oif@ala.org.
For more information about Banned Books Week programming at the Racine Public Library, call 262.636.9217 or email becky.spika@racinelibrary.info.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Library Cultural Film Screening @ Java Vino
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., offers a vast selection of the award-winning cultural films. Join fellow film enthusiasts to preview some of this collection as JavaVino, 424 Main St., hosts free screenings on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 5-7 p.m. JavaVino offers appetizers, wine and coffee for purchase during the film. Participants are encouraged to then visit Downtown Racine's finest restaurants for dinner.
September's film selection is Hawaii, Oslo, a film from Norway, directed by Erik Poppe. Five stories of love are interwoven in Oslo, during the hottest day of the year. Touching the lives of each story's characters is Vidor, who sees things no one else can see.
Winner of the 2005 Norwegian Film Critic's award, this film has been called "a colorful mosaic of unusual human stories" and "one of the best films to come out of Norway in years."
Because these films are not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend them for children under age 17.
September's film selection is Hawaii, Oslo, a film from Norway, directed by Erik Poppe. Five stories of love are interwoven in Oslo, during the hottest day of the year. Touching the lives of each story's characters is Vidor, who sees things no one else can see.
Winner of the 2005 Norwegian Film Critic's award, this film has been called "a colorful mosaic of unusual human stories" and "one of the best films to come out of Norway in years."
Because these films are not rated, the Racine Public Library is unable to recommend them for children under age 17.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Wednesday, September 3: Library Hosts Racism Movie & Discussion
The community is invited to attend another program in the "Coming Together Racine" series of movie screenings and discussions about racism and race relations at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., on Wednesday, September 3, 2008 at 6:00 p.m.
First-time filmmaker Katrina Browne makes a troubling discovery — her New England ancestors were the largest slave-trading family in U.S. history. She and nine fellow descendants set off to retrace the Triangle Trade: from their old hometown in Rhode Island to slave forts in Ghana to sugar plantation ruins in Cuba. Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North is a unique and disturbing journey of discovery into the history and "living consequences" of one of the United States' most shameful episodes — slavery. Katrina Browne discovered that her slave-trading ancestors from Rhode Island were not an aberration. Rather, they were just the most prominent actors in the North's vast complicity in slavery, buried in myths of Northern innocence.
Browne — a direct descendant of Mark Anthony DeWolf, the first slaver in the family — took the unusual step of writing to 200 descendants, inviting them to journey with her from Rhode Island to Ghana to Cuba and back, recapitulating the Triangle Trade that made the DeWolfs the largest slave-trading family in U.S. history. Nine relatives signed up. Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North is Browne's spellbinding account of the journey that resulted.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
First-time filmmaker Katrina Browne makes a troubling discovery — her New England ancestors were the largest slave-trading family in U.S. history. She and nine fellow descendants set off to retrace the Triangle Trade: from their old hometown in Rhode Island to slave forts in Ghana to sugar plantation ruins in Cuba. Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North is a unique and disturbing journey of discovery into the history and "living consequences" of one of the United States' most shameful episodes — slavery. Katrina Browne discovered that her slave-trading ancestors from Rhode Island were not an aberration. Rather, they were just the most prominent actors in the North's vast complicity in slavery, buried in myths of Northern innocence.
Browne — a direct descendant of Mark Anthony DeWolf, the first slaver in the family — took the unusual step of writing to 200 descendants, inviting them to journey with her from Rhode Island to Ghana to Cuba and back, recapitulating the Triangle Trade that made the DeWolfs the largest slave-trading family in U.S. history. Nine relatives signed up. Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North is Browne's spellbinding account of the journey that resulted.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
- Promote racial harmony in the community;
- Educate community members on racism and its effects on people and the community; and
- Bring people together to foster awareness and appreciation of people of all cultures.
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Wednesday, August 6: Library Hosts Racism Movie & Discussion
The community is invited to attend another program in the "Coming Together Racine" series of movie screenings and discussions about racism and race relations at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., on Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 6:00 p.m.
Directed by Spike Lee, this dark, biting satire of the television industry focuses on an Ivy-League educated black writer at a major network. Frustrated that his ideas for a television comedy have been rejected by network brass, he devises an outlandish scheme: reviving the minstrel show. The hook: instead of white actor in black face, the show stars black actors in even blacker face. The show becomes an instant smash, but with the success also comes repercussions for all involved.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund. Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
Directed by Spike Lee, this dark, biting satire of the television industry focuses on an Ivy-League educated black writer at a major network. Frustrated that his ideas for a television comedy have been rejected by network brass, he devises an outlandish scheme: reviving the minstrel show. The hook: instead of white actor in black face, the show stars black actors in even blacker face. The show becomes an instant smash, but with the success also comes repercussions for all involved.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund. Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
- Promote racial harmony in the community;
- Educate community members on racism and its effects on people and the community; and
- Bring people together to foster awareness and appreciation of people of all cultures.
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Saturday, July 12: Foreign Film @ JavaVino
The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St, offers a vast selection of the very best in foreign films. Join fellow film enthusiasts to preview some of this collection as JavaVino Coffee and Wine Shop, 424 Main St., hosts free screenings on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 5-7 p.m. JavaVino offers appetizers, wine and coffee for purchase during the film. Participants are encouraged to then visit Downtown Racine's finest restaurants for dinner. The film, A Peck on the Cheek (Kannathil Muthamittal) directed by Mani Ratnam will be shown on Saturday, July 12.
In this award-winning film, a little girl's search for her biological mother who had abandoned her as a newborn baby is brought out poignantly. Amudha, adopted by Thiru and Indira and growing up with the couple's two sons, is blissfully unaware of her parentage, until the couple decides to inform her of it on her ninth birthday. At first shocked into disbelief, Amudha then expresses her determination to seek out for her biological mother. The search takes the family to strife-torn Sri Lanka, where Amudha comes face-to-face with reality, and reconciles herself to it. With films like Mouna Ragam, Alaipayuthe and now A Peck on the Cheek, director Mani Ratnam proves once again that he is at his best when tackling human emotions and relationships.
Because this film is not rated, it is not recommended for children under age 17.
In this award-winning film, a little girl's search for her biological mother who had abandoned her as a newborn baby is brought out poignantly. Amudha, adopted by Thiru and Indira and growing up with the couple's two sons, is blissfully unaware of her parentage, until the couple decides to inform her of it on her ninth birthday. At first shocked into disbelief, Amudha then expresses her determination to seek out for her biological mother. The search takes the family to strife-torn Sri Lanka, where Amudha comes face-to-face with reality, and reconciles herself to it. With films like Mouna Ragam, Alaipayuthe and now A Peck on the Cheek, director Mani Ratnam proves once again that he is at his best when tackling human emotions and relationships.
Because this film is not rated, it is not recommended for children under age 17.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Wednesday, July 2: Library Hosts Racism Movie & Discussion
The community is invited to attend another program in the "Coming Together Racine" series of movie screenings and discussions about racism and race relations at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., on Wednesday, July 2, 2008 at 6:00 p.m.
Starring Matthew Broderick, Morgan Freeman, and Denzel Washington (who won an Oscar), this movie is based on the letters of Colonel Robert G. Shaw. Shaw, an officer in the Federal Army during the Civil War, volunteered to lead the first company of black soldiers. Shaw was forced to deal with the prejudices of both the enemy (who had orders to kill commanding officers of blacks), and of his own fellow officers.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
Starring Matthew Broderick, Morgan Freeman, and Denzel Washington (who won an Oscar), this movie is based on the letters of Colonel Robert G. Shaw. Shaw, an officer in the Federal Army during the Civil War, volunteered to lead the first company of black soldiers. Shaw was forced to deal with the prejudices of both the enemy (who had orders to kill commanding officers of blacks), and of his own fellow officers.
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
- Promote racial harmony in the community
- Educate community members on racism and its effects on people and the community; and
- Bring people together to foster awareness and appreciation of people of all cultures.
To achieve these goals the Committee will provide opportunities for members of the Racine community to dialogue, explore, learn, and strategize around racism. This movie is one of a series of events designed to engage Racine in discussion.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Wednesday, June 4: Library Hosts Racism Movie & Discussion
The community is invited to attend another program in the "Coming Together Racine" series of movie screenings and discussions about racism and race relations at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., on Wednesday, June 4, 2008 at 6:00 p.m.
In this gripping story, based on the book by Erin Gruwell, Hilary Swank stars as an inner-city teacher who gives kids raised on drive-by shootings and hard-core attitude the one thing they need most: a voice of their own. Dropped into the free-fire zone of a school torn by violence and racial tension, teacher Erin Gruwell battles an uncaring system in a fight to make the classroom matter in her students' lives.
Through telling of their own stories and hearing the stories of others, a group of supposedly "unteachable" teens are empowered to discover the power of tolerance, reclaim their shattered lives, and change their world.
The Freedom Writers Foundation says this about their mission: "It's time to publicly and systematically promote an educational philosophy that honors diversity in the classroom. It's time to give students the opportunity to reach their full potential and aspire to higher education. It's time to remind them that they can deeply impact their communities and the world. The Freedom Writers Foundation believes the time has come. And by empowering students and teachers alike through outreach curriculum, and scholarships, the time is now."
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
In this gripping story, based on the book by Erin Gruwell, Hilary Swank stars as an inner-city teacher who gives kids raised on drive-by shootings and hard-core attitude the one thing they need most: a voice of their own. Dropped into the free-fire zone of a school torn by violence and racial tension, teacher Erin Gruwell battles an uncaring system in a fight to make the classroom matter in her students' lives.
Through telling of their own stories and hearing the stories of others, a group of supposedly "unteachable" teens are empowered to discover the power of tolerance, reclaim their shattered lives, and change their world.
The Freedom Writers Foundation says this about their mission: "It's time to publicly and systematically promote an educational philosophy that honors diversity in the classroom. It's time to give students the opportunity to reach their full potential and aspire to higher education. It's time to remind them that they can deeply impact their communities and the world. The Freedom Writers Foundation believes the time has come. And by empowering students and teachers alike through outreach curriculum, and scholarships, the time is now."
A member of Coming Together Racine will facilitate a discussion of the movie after the screening. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag supper. The series is cosponsored by Coming Together Racine and the Racine Public Library and is funded by the library's Alma Boernke Endowment Fund.
Coming Together Racine is a 501(c)3 organization developed in response to community needs identified at a Town Hall Meeting on February 25, 2005. At the event it was determined that a greater effort is needed in the Racine community to eliminate the barriers preventing equal voice and access to community resources. In response to the results from the Town Hall Meeting a community-wide committee, The Committee to Eliminate Racism, was formed. In September 2005, after assessing the Racine community's needs, the Committee to Eliminate Racism submitted an application to become an affiliate of the Coming Together Project, and in February 2006 was approved as Coming Together Racine.
Coming Together Racine will work to:
- Promote racial harmony in the community;
- Educate community members on racism and its effects on people and the community; and
- Bring people together to foster awareness and appreciation of people of all cultures.
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