The Women Trailblazers Conference returns on November 6, 2024 at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point with an exceptional line-up of guest speakers and session leaders.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Mara Prausa, Outreach Program Manager

Continuing Education and Outreach

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Phone: 715-346-3075

Email: mprausa@uwsp.edu

Women Trailblazers Conference returns, registration open now

Stevens Point, WI 

Ignite your voice at the annual Women Trailblazers Conference on Wednesday, Nov. 6, hosted by Continuing Education at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Inspiring keynotes, breakout sessions, an exhibition fair and networking receptions will take place from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. in the Dreyfus University Center, 1015 Reserve St., Stevens Point. This conference is presented in partnership with the Small Business Development Center of Wisconsin and UW-Stevens Point Sentry School of Business and Economics.

Participants have noted the inspiring environment the conference promotes. One participant said, “I loved the real-life experience that was shared by all the women in the conference.” With conversations ranging from starting a business to being a forward-thinking leader, women from all walks of life have had meaningful experiences and come away with new ideas and perspectives.

This year’s keynote speaker is Deanna Singh, an award-winning author, educator, business leader and social justice champion who will speak on her work as a trailblazer in social change. UW-Stevens Point Alumni Association 2023 Trailblazer Spotlight recipient Christine Russell will also give an address, sharing her expertise in health promotion and corporate wellness for women of color.

“As women, so many of us know that it is our time to have a seat at the table, lead and start new things.” Associate Professor Lyna Matesi said. “What started in Stevens Point in 2019 as a 60-minute webinar has blossomed into five years of supporting women across the state. Women who dream about starting businesses, non-profits, associations and organization initiatives. We like to say that at UW-Stevens Point women thrive.” Matesi has been involved with conference planning since the event’s inception in 2019 and is excited to help women thrive in central Wisconsin and beyond.

Mara Prausa, continuing education program manager, has been involved in planning Women Trailblazers since 2022 and has enjoyed creating a positive experience for attendees.  “Women juggle so many things,” she said. “This is an opportunity to let it all go and be inspired. It has been really rewarding to see people leave women trailblazers feeling energized.”

Women and allies are invited to participate in this transformative women’s conference focused on developing skills as a leader and catalyst for change. Registration is now open. To register and view a schedule of events visit: www3.uwsp.edu/conted/Pages/Women-Trailblazers-Conference.aspx

You are all cordially invited to celebrate 100 years of the Ripon Noon Kiwanis club, in a celebration filled with fellowship, pizza and pasta; on Thursday, November 7th in the Knuth Brewing Company upstairs banquet hall. Established in 1924, 2024 marks the centennial anniversary of the Noon Kiwanis; which has been serving the youth of the Ripon community for over 100 years.

• 6:30 Social Time,

• 7:00 Dinner

• 7:30 Celebration Program

Tickets are $35 per person, and includes a pizza and pasta buffet. Tickets can be purchased online at: https://riponnoonkiwanis.org/centennial-dinner. You can also email riponnoonkiwanis@gmail.com to confirm RSVP and mail a check for the amount of your tickets to: Ripon Noon Kiwanis, PO Box 504, Ripon, WI 54971.

Parking will be available from the upper lot off Ransom Street, with direct access to the banquet hall or in the adjacent community lot.

The centennial dinner celebration will include special recognition from state senator Joan Ballweg, highlights from the past 100 years, and a keynote speech from the Art and Creativity Consultant for the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and 2017 Wisconsin Teacher of the Year, Chris Gleason.

Seating is limited and guests should RSVP by October 26.

Chatham Rabbits Show Cancelled at Thrasher Opera House

Green Lake, Wis. (November 11, 2024) – Roots duo Chatham Rabbits have cancelled their show at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin for Friday, November 15, due to illness.  In a statement released by Austin & Sarah McCombie “Dear fans, we are so disappointed to say that we have to cancel our show at Thrasher Opera House this Friday night. Sarah has been battling a virus all week and has now completely lost her voice to laryngitis. She is unable to sing and we cannot risk any further damage to her voice. We are working to get another date on the books and will let you know as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding as Sarah recovers. We love what we do and take it very seriously, and are anxious to get back on the road. – Austin and Sarah”

Ticket holders may use their tickets at the William Elliott Whitmore show on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 7:30 p.m., another performance remaining in 2024, or receive a refund.  Please contact Thrasher Opera House if you have any questions.

Thrasher Opera House’s mission is to promote the arts and the power of live performance, provide a community gathering place, and preserve the historic Thrasher Opera House. Built in 1910, restored in 1997, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is a charming, intimate, and friendly venue with excellent acoustics, seating 200. For more information, please visit www.thrasheroperahouse.com or find us @thrasheroperahouse on Facebook and Instagram.

Chatham Rabbits Show Cancelled at Thrasher Opera House

Green Lake, Wis. (November 11, 2024) – Roots duo Chatham Rabbits have cancelled their show at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin for Friday, November 15, due to illness.  In a statement released by Austin & Sarah McCombie “Dear fans, we are so disappointed to say that we have to cancel our show at Thrasher Opera House this Friday night. Sarah has been battling a virus all week and has now completely lost her voice to laryngitis. She is unable to sing and we cannot risk any further damage to her voice. We are working to get another date on the books and will let you know as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding as Sarah recovers. We love what we do and take it very seriously, and are anxious to get back on the road. – Austin and Sarah”

Ticket holders may use their tickets at the William Elliott Whitmore show on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 7:30 p.m., another performance remaining in 2024, or receive a refund.  Please contact Thrasher Opera House if you have any questions.

Thrasher Opera House’s mission is to promote the arts and the power of live performance, provide a community gathering place, and preserve the historic Thrasher Opera House. Built in 1910, restored in 1997, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is a charming, intimate, and friendly venue with excellent acoustics, seating 200. For more information, please visit www.thrasheroperahouse.com or find us @thrasheroperahouse on Facebook and Instagram.

Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin is thrilled to announce that the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin honored Kathy Davies with the Keystone Award during National Community Foundation Week.

The press release with information about the is below.

We kindly request your consideration in sharing this story with your network. For additional information or materials, feel free to contact me. We appreciate your support in sharing this news.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

KaYing Vang, Community Storyteller

Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin

715-342-4454 kaying@cfcwi.org

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin Honors Kathy Davies with the Keystone Award During National Community Foundation Week

Stevens Point, Wisconsin (Nov 10, 2024) – The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin (Community Foundation) will join in a nationwide celebration, November 12-18, 2019, to recognize the increasingly important role these philanthropic organizations play in fostering local collaboration and innovation to bring community driven ideas to life.

As part of our local celebration, the Community Foundation honored one of its biggest champions, Kathy Davies, of Plover. Kathy received the 2024 Keystone Award at the Community Foundation’s Gala of Gratitude. The award acknowledges her incredible dedication to the Community Foundation and its regional focus on Portage and Waushara Counties. She’s worn many hats over the years, from stepping in as interim executive director to serving as board president and has always been a strong community leader.

Kathy’s story with the Community Foundation began in 1997 when she created the Laura Davies Memorial Scholarship to honor her daughter. Since then, she’s been a driving force, helping launch the Women’s Fund of Portage County and, with her husband Tom, joining the Living Legacy Society. Her passion for helping others also shines in Waushara County philanthropy, where she’s supported projects in her hometown of Wildrose, the Patterson Memorial Library Fund, and the Kiwanis Club of Wild Rose Fund.

The Keystone Award celebrates Kathy’s deep love for our community and her commitment to making it stronger for generations to come. Each year, this award honors people who give their time, energy, and resources to create lasting change, inspired by those who founded the Keystone Endowment Fund at the Community Foundation.

As community foundations support solutions for communities large and small, urban and rural – it is the collective work of these organizations and people like Kathy Davies that will have the most profound impact. In fiscal year 2024, the Community Foundation and its donors directed $1,575,679 in resources to support nonprofits and student scholarships. Since its founding in 1982, the Community Foundation has facilitated over $17 million in giving, advancing its vision of creating thriving communities in Portage and Waushara counties with a strong culture of philanthropy.

For more than a century, community foundations have served as a trusted partner and resource whose effect can be seen in the lives of millions and in the vibrant neighborhoods that continue to thrive through their mission-driven work. Community foundations are independent, public entities that steward philanthropic resources from institutional and individual donors to local nonprofits and represent one of the fastest-growing forms of philanthropy.

Community Foundation Week was created in 1989 by former president George H.W. Bush to recognize the work of community foundations throughout America and their collaborative approach to working with the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to address community problems.

About Us

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin is a non-profit organization that inspires charitable giving by connecting people and resources to enhance Central Wisconsin now and for future generations. For more information on how you can give back to your community, please visit www.cfcwi.org.

Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin

New Winter/Spring Season at Thrasher Opera House Released

Green Lake, Wis. (November 21, 2024) – Get ready for an exciting Winter/Spring Season at the
Thrasher Opera House, where we’re bringing an amazing mix of talented performers to the stage!
From beloved returning favorites to fresh new artists, this season promises something for
everyone. Executive Director Rachael Avery couldn’t be more excited, saying, “We can’t wait to kick
off a season full of energy and variety—offering everything from blues to bluegrass, Celtic to String
Bands, and so much more.” Mark your calendars: tickets go on sale November 21! Check out our
website at www.thrasheroperahouse.com or call 920.294.4279 for all the details on this
unforgettable lineup.

December 2024

December 05 | The Empty Pockets – Mistletunes | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $26
Fill the holidays with rock and modern blues! Chicago’s Billboard-chart-topping quartet is bringing
their Holiday Concert to town. They ignite a bright flame by harnessing a joyful friction between
Americana, folk, and rock ‘n’ roll, spiked with roots soul.

December 13 | Mr. Sun Plays Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show
7:30 p.m. Tickets $25
Its members have long been actively re-shaping the acoustic musical landscape. Enter Duke
Ellington’s Nutcracker as they take the opportunity to salute and re-invent this wildly multi-faceted
work anew through the lens of the American string band.

December 14 | The Alley Cats | Doors and Bar 2:15 p.m. & 6:15 p.m. | Show 3:00 p.m. & 7:00
p.m.
Tickets $25
The high-energy doo-wop group delivers harmonies, humor, and holiday cheer with Jingle Bell
Rock: A Harmonious Hysterical Holiday Hit. Great entertainment for the family – witty, uplifting,
and fun! A perfect blend of musical talent and comic timing.

December 15 | Fox Cities Swing Band – Holiday Concert | Doors and Bar 1:15 p.m. | Show 2:00
p.m. FREE
Join us for a holiday matinee performance by the Fox Cities Swing Band! The FCSB has been
together for over twelve years and specializes in the ‘40s and ’50s jazz standards from the big band
era. The ensemble is made up of a variety of musicians from the Fox Valley area.

January 2025

January 20 | Missoula Tryouts | 4-6 p.m. | Free
An audition will be held for the Missoula Children’s Theatre production of HERCULES! on Monday,
January 20, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Those auditioning should arrive between 3:30 and 4 p.m. and plan
to stay for two hours. Parents are welcome to stay for auditions as well. Some cast members will
be asked to stay for a rehearsal immediately following the auditions; others will be released at 6
p.m. after making cast announcements.
This program is free for participants, thanks to the support of our wonderful community.
Approximately 50-60 roles are available for local students. All students, grades 1-12, are
encouraged to audition. No preparation is necessary. If cast, a rehearsal schedule will be provided
– most students should plan on rehearsing 4-8:15 p.m. Tuesday, January 21 through Friday, January
24. The performances will be held on Saturday, January 25, at 3 and 5:30 p.m. For more
information, call Thrasher at 920.294.4279.

January 25 | Missoula Children’s Theatre Shows – Hercules!
Approximately 50-60 local students will be putting on a production of Hercules! at the historic
Thrasher Opera House on Saturday, January 25.
Show 1 – Doors open at 2:30 p.m., show begins at 3 p.m.
Show 2 – Doors open at 5 p.m., show begins at 5:30 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for students and $15 for adults.

January 31 | Henhouse Prowlers | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $26
Founded two decades ago, this Chicago-based bluegrass quartet blends performance, diplomacy,
and education. Their music, rooted in bluegrass, evolves through intricate instrumentation and
songwriting, showcased in their album Lead and Iron.

February 2025

February 01 | Peter Mulvey | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $35 (506 Session) – Limited Cocktail Seating
Milwaukee-born songwriter and performer, built his career through busking, touring, and
collaboration. With 19 albums, a book, a TEDx talk, and countless performances, he blends poetry,
social justice, and humanism into his eclectic music.

February 06 | Documentary: Jazz Fest: A New Orleans Story | Doors and Bar 5:00 p.m. |
Showing 6:00 p.m. Tickets: FREE
This film weaves together live performances and interviews from the 50th anniversary of the iconic
festival, featuring some of the biggest names in the music industry, along with a wealth of archival
documentary footage from the past half century. This film not only captures the Festival in all of its
beauty and glory, but also delves deep into the rich culture of The Big Easy.

February 15 | Willy Porter | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $26
Songs that weave a universal perspective about human existence’s questions, struggles, and
triumphs. The shows are guitar-driven grit and soul – electrifying and unique in the way that Porter’s
voice blends and fuses with his fretwork.

February 21 | Arkansauce | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $26
Improvisational string leads matched with complex melodies, intriguing rhythms, and deep,
thumping bass grooves bring to life the melodies of the Ozark Mountains’ rolling hills and raging
rivers in this quartet’s vibrant blend of newgrass.

February 22 | Tab Benoit | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets SOLD OUT
Improvisational string leads matched with complex melodies, intriguing rhythms, and deep,
thumping bass grooves bring to life the melodies of the Ozark Mountains’ rolling hills and raging
rivers in this quartet’s vibrant blend of newgrass.

February 28 | The Sweet Lillies with Adrian+Meredith | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30
p.m.
Tickets $26
With their acoustic string-band lineup of guitar, viola, and upright bass, given flight by ethereal,
vocal harmonies that float like a dream, the Sweet Lillies’ music has an old-time soul with a
forward-looking eye.

March 2025

March 01 | Jesse Roper| Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $30
Soul artist delivers explosive, indie-infused performances, blending rich vocals with masterful
guitar. He’s shared stages with legends like Booker T. Jones and Beth Hart. His latest release, Make
It All Work Out, is a soulful, standout single.

March 07 | Matt Schofield | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $30
British-born, US-based Matt Schofield, an award-winning guitarist and British Blues Hall of Famer,
has captivated global audiences with his emotive playing, influential style, and acclaimed original
compositions for 20 years.

March 14 | Marcia Ball | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $35
Gulf Coast rhythms and blues with deep soul. Her latest album, Shine Bright, shows her energetic
performances and award-winning legacy. “Rollicking, playful, good-time blues and intimate,…her
songs ring with emotional depth.” – Rolling Stone

March 21 | Rucksack Revolution | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $30
Two of Wisconsin’s top singer-songwriters: Adam Greuel from the lively Horseshoes & Hand
Grenades, and Sarah Vos of the folk-inspired Dead Horses. Performing original songs rich with
harmony, introspection, and soaring melodies.

March 22 | Sonny Landreth & Cindy Cashdollar | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $35
Slide guitar master Landreth and steel guitar virtuoso Cashdollar showcase world class guitar
skills. Landreth has collaborated with legends like Clapton, while Cashdollar, a five-time Grammy
winner that excels across genres.

April 2025

April 03 | Skerryvore | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $30 (SEATED)
Skerryvore has brought its performances to audiences across the globe. A mix of fiddle,
accordions, pipes, and whistles, alongside guitar and vocals, underpinned by driving bass, drums,
and keys, representing the best in contemporary Scottish traditional music.

April 04 | Skerryvore | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $26 (STANDING)
Skerryvore has brought its performances to audiences across the globe. A mix of fiddle,
accordions, pipes, and whistles, alongside guitar and vocals, underpinned by driving bass, drums,
and keys, representing the best in contemporary Scottish traditional music.

April 10 | Della Mae | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $27
GRAMMY-nominated, all-woman band Della Mae unites top female musicians to promote peace
and inspire women. Led by Celia Woodsmith and Kimber Ludiker, they’ve toured 30+ countries,
spreading roots music.

April 11 | The Brit Pack | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $35
Formed by British session musicians in 2011, The Brit Pack delivers an authentic British Invasion
experience, performing classics from legends like The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Queen, Bowie, Elton
John, and more.

April 24 | Cassie & Maggie | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $35 (506 Session) – Limited Cocktail Seating
“Be it their foot percussion accompanying driving Nova Scotian sets, perfect blend of harmonies,
added to a stunning interplay on various instruments, an evening spent with Cassie & Maggie is a
great night…” – Irish Music Magazine

April 25 | Tinsley Ellis | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $30
Ellis’ new acoustic album, Naked Truth is a departure and an arrival, steeped in folk blues
traditions. After four decades of electric blues-rock, Ellis taps into the raw essence of blues,
fulfilling a longtime dream for his fans.

May 2025

May 01 | Harry Manx | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $35
“Mysticssippi” blues man Harry Manx blends Indian folk melodies with slide guitar blues, a sprinkle
of gospel and compelling grooves. Manx is a prolific artist, releasing 12 albums in a 12-year span,
and has won six Juno Awards.

May 09 & May 10 |Paul Thorn Band | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $35
Paul has created an innovative and impressive career, pleasing crowds with his muscular brand of
roots music—bluesy, rocking, and thoroughly Southern Americana. “…a rare and addictive mixture
of soul, wit, humor, and musicality.” – Mark Knopfler

May 16 | Karla Bonoff | Doors and Bar 6:45 p.m. | Show 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $37
Born in Southern California, she began songwriting at 15. A figure in L.A.’s music scene, she rose to
prominence through collaborations with Linda Ronstadt and her solo success, blending folk, rock,
and heartfelt storytelling.

May 29 | The Low-Phe Life | Doors and Bar 5:00 p.m. | Showing 6:00 p.m.
Tickets: FREE
The Low-Phe Life is an animated-documentary-comedy series about living with PKU—a rare
metabolic disorder. PKU or phenylketonuria inhibits a person’s ability to break down protein.
People with PKU, like Kurt Sensenbrenner the series’ director, must adhere to a strict low protein
diet of fruits and vegetables, and drink a supplemental formula multiple times a day for
their entire life to avoid serious neurological and physical side effects.
Thrasher Opera House’s mission is to promote the arts and the power of live performance, provide
a community gathering place, and preserve the historic Thrasher Opera House. A charming,
intimate, friendly venue with excellent acoustics. Built-in 1910, restored in 1997, and on the
National Register of Historic Places. Seats 200. For more information, please visit
www.thrasheroperahouse.com

The Green Lake County Angel Tree Program Has Been Giving The Gift Of Joy To Children And Families In Need Throughout Green Lake County For Over Ten Years. Along With Hometown Broadcasting, They Ask For Your Help In Making Sure Every Child Has Something To Look Forward To On Christmas Morning. You Can Help By Bringing Your New, Unwrapped Gift Donation To The Following Locations In Berlin…Shell On Broadway, Fortifi Bank And For Convenient 24-Hour-A-Day Donations, Place Them In The Box In The West Entryway At Barbola Funeral Chapel. 100% Of The Proceeds Goes To Green Lake County’s Angel Tree Program. Please Drop Off Your Donations In Berlin At Shell On Broadway, Fortifi Bank And Barbola Funeral Chapel By The End Of November. Thank You For Your Help In Giving The Gift Of Joy This Christmas Season!

Hometown Broadcasting will be doing a live remote on Fri., Nov. 22, noon-2p.m., at Shell on Broadway in Berlin, to help collect donations.  For every $5 donated or for EACH toy dropped off during the remote, you will get your name in a drawing for a $50 gift card from Shell on Broadway!

The Green Lake County Angel Tree Program Has Been Giving The Gift Of Joy To Children And Families In Need Throughout Green Lake County For Over Ten Years. Along With Hometown Broadcasting, They Ask For Your Help In Making Sure Every Child Has Something To Look Forward To On Christmas Morning. You Can Help By Bringing Your New, Unwrapped Gift Donation To The Following Locations In Berlin…Shell On Broadway, Fortifi Bank And For Convenient 24-Hour-A-Day Donations, Place Them In The Box In The West Entryway At Barbola Funeral Chapel. 100% Of The Proceeds Goes To Green Lake County’s Angel Tree Program. Please Drop Off Your Donations In Berlin At Shell On Broadway, Fortifi Bank And Barbola Funeral Chapel By The End Of November. Thank You For Your Help In Giving The Gift Of Joy This Christmas Season!

Hometown Broadcasting will be doing a live remote on Fri., Nov. 22, noon-2p.m., at Shell on Broadway in Berlin, to help collect donations.  For every $5 donated or for EACH toy dropped off during the remote, you will get your name in a drawing for a $50 gift card from Shell on Broadway!

See flyer….

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 14, 2024
CONTACT: Jason Mansmith
920.294.4279
jason@thrasheroperahouse.com

Pop-Up Performance from Beth Bombara at Thrasher Opera House on November 21

Green Lake, Wis. (November 14, 2024) – Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin
will host a Pop-Up Performance featuring Beth Bombara on Thursday, November 21.

Cocktail & Appetizer Hour: 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Performance from Beth Bombara: 6:30 pm
506 Session – Cocktail style seating
Beth Bombara’s It All Goes Up is for this moment what Kathleen Edwards’ Back To Me was
for the early 2000s. It’s all there – the songwriting first and foremost with a voice that
connects on a raw, emotional level alongside production led by Bombara’s undeniable
musicality, retaining the intimacy of being wholly conceived by the artist
herself. Bombara’s last album, Evergreen, was well-received by fans and media alike. “The
likes of Aimee Mann and Jewel are fair comparisons,” noted the L.A. Weekly, “every tone is
tinged with emotion, nothing is wasted.” With It All Goes Up, Bombara has risen to a new
level and let some light in. “There’s more light, more hope in this record,” she says, “and it
feels more positive sonically, as well.” These songs were written during the chaos of the
past couple years, and the time found Bombara looking for silver linings, writing to keep
herself positive and keep her mind open and fresh. She continues, “During the pandemic I
reconnected with an old guitar that had been collecting dust in my closet for many years.
It’s a classical guitar, and I wrote a lot of the songs for this record on it, which brought
something different to them and took the tone of the record in a new direction.” Bombara’s
songwriting certainly did take a turn – upwards, in more ways than one.
With a suggested $25 donation at the door, both new and current donors will receive a tax
receipt for their contribution. New donors will also automatically become members
through our year-end drive. Your support helps preserve this historic venue and ensures
our arts programming continues to inspire and connect the community.

Membership Benefits for New Donors:
• Early access to tickets
• Exclusive member-only events
• Recognition in Thrasher materials
• Priority updates and newsletters
• Support for arts and community programs
• Contribution to the preservation of a historic venue
This performance is presented by Ric Damm Photography.
Thrasher Opera House’s mission is to promote the arts and the power of live performance,
provide a community gathering place, and preserve the historic Thrasher Opera House.
Built in 1910, restored in 1997, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is a
charming, intimate, and friendly venue with excellent acoustics, seating 200. For more
information, please visit www.thrasheroperahouse.com or find us @thrasheroperahouse
on Facebook and Instagram.

Linda DeCramer, Youth Services            Susie Menk, Adult & Teen Services

decramer@riponlibrary.org                        menk@riponlibrary.org

120 Jefferson Street |Ripon WI 54971| 920-748-6160

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

11/21/2024

WARM UP WITH COZY PROGRAMS AT THE LIBRARY

Ripon, WI – The Ripon Public Library is pleased to offer a fresh slate of winter programming. Keep reading to discover all that December has to offer for all ages! Thanks to the Friends of the Library, and other generous partners, programming is always free, and registration is not required unless noted.

THROUGH DEC 16 | LETTERS TO SANTA | PARTNERSHIP WITH RIPON PARKS & RECREATION

Hear ye, hear ye! Jolly Santa Claus is coming to town! Beginning November 30th, a magical North Pole mailbox, along with letter templates, will grace the Ripon Public Library’s Children’s Department. Grab a template, pour your heart into it, and return it to the North Pole mailbox. As the merry old elf receives your letters, he will delight in reading and responding to each one! When penning your thoughts, be sure to include your name and address, ensuring Santa can send you a reply. No postage is required! Letters may be deposited from November 30th to December 16th at the Ripon Public Library during its regular hours: (Monday through Thursday 9 AM – 8 PM | Friday 9 AM – 6 PM | Saturday 9 AM – 4 PM | Sunday 1 – 4 PM).

MON | DEC 2 | 6:00-7:30 PM | JOE HATCHER PRESENTATION | ADULTS

Psychedelics first hit American culture in the 1950s and 1960s. Although they were often used recreationally, Psychologists and other mental health professionals lauded their effectiveness in therapy. In the last fifteen years, however, there has been a resurgence of research into the use of psychedelics for the treatment of depression, PTSD, and other mental health disorders. One notable exception is Ketamine. This talk provides an overview of the history of the current status of the use of psychedelics in therapy and addresses both relevant data and important controversies.

WED | DEC 4 | 10 AM | STORYTIME + STAY & PLAY | KIDS & CAREGIVERS

Welcome to active learning and fun, where early literacy and STEM concepts come to life through stories, music, movement, and enrichment activities. It’s a happy place for kids and caregivers to learn and engage.

Everyone is invited to Stay and Play in the Romper Room after Storytime. This active space allows kids to release excess energy and advance their physical skills while supporting social connections for adults and children. Storytime and Stay and Play do not require registration.

SUN | DEC  8 | 1-4 PM | D&D and MORE! | AGES 11+

Join us for an afternoon of Dungeons and Dragons and other roleplaying games in which you immerse yourself in a world and character, problem-solve and collaborate with others! Beginners welcome. Recurs the second Sunday of each month.

WED | DEC 11 | 10 AM | PARENT CAFÉ | LITERCY & YOUR LITTLE ONES | + 11 AM LUNCH | KIDS & CAREGIVERS | NO REGISTRATION

Early Learning Educator Laural Wilson presents ideas for simple, fun spaces & props designed to develop preschoolers’ early literacy skills. Caregivers may choose to have their little one/s by their side or cared for onsite by a qualified childcare team during the café. Sandwich lunch includes dairy, gluten, & meat free options. THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:   Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac, SPROUT, and Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board.

SAT | DEC 14 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | TEENS: HOLIDAY ESCAPE ROOM | AGES 11-17

You’re invited to a thrilling escape room adventure. Solve Christmas themed mysteries and unlock a great time together! Bring a friend or join a team!  Prizes, snacks and fun are guaranteed! Call 920.748.6160 or stop by the library to register by December 12^th.

THU | DEC 19 | 4-5:15 PM | CANDY CANE DAY | PARTNERSHIP WITH RIPON PARKS & RECREATION |  @ RIPON SENIOR CENTER | AGES PRE-K TO THIRD GRADE

Revel in all things candy cane! From crafts to treats to Storytime and more, the red and white stripes are sure to delight!

HOLIDAY MOVIE SPECIALS! | ALL AGES

Delight in these recent movie gems! Movies are shown on the big screen, with stereo sound, and popcorn is served. Titles are available on the library website.

• MON | DEC 23 | 10 AM | After a shipwreck, an intelligent robot called Roz is stranded on an uninhabited island. To survive the harsh environment, Roz bonds with the island’s animals and cares for an orphaned baby goose. –Swank (2024 PG 1h 42m)
• THU | DEC 26 | 10 AM | When Harold is living within the confines of his book, anything he touches with his purple crayon can come to life. Now Harold wants to take it a step further and draw himself into the physical world. Based on the 1955 children’s book of the same name. —Swank  (2024 PG 1h 30m)
• FRI | DEC 27 | 10 AM | In San Francisco’s Chinatown, an ordinary boy named Tom learns he’s the latest guardian of a phoenix egg after his grandmother’s death. Guided by a talking tiger named Mr. Hu, Tom must master ancient magic to protect the egg from evil forces with the help of a quirky band of creatures embodying the Chinese zodiac signs. —Swank (2024 PG 1h 24m)

Visit the library’s website or follow Ripon Public Library on Facebook and Instagram for detailed information and the latest library news on programs and resources, or call a friendly librarian, 920-748-6160.

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Linda DeCramer | Youth Services Librarian

Ripon Public Library | 120 Jefferson Street

Ripon WI 54971 | 920-748-6160

decramer@riponlibrary.org

she/her/hers

Website: https://www.riponlibrary.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiponPublicLibrary

A Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner will be provided at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church located at 364 S. Cambridge Street, Wautoma on Thanksgiving Day, November 28^th. We will be open for sit down meals in the hall. The doors will open at 11:30 and the meal will be served at noon. People can also pick up meals curbside or have local home deliveries to Wautoma and Wild Rose only. Curbside pick up times will be between 11:00 & 11:30 am. Reservations must be made for all meals including inside dining by Friday, November 22. Please call Helen Cox (920-787-5900) to leave name, phone number and number of meals wanted or number of people attending. For home deliveries, please give correct addresses.