Happy December from the Berlin Public Library! Read on to learn about events, programs, and services offered this month at the library. Some programs may require registration. Click below to view a complete list of December programs:
Knitting/crocheting/needlework group that meets the last Tuesday of the month at 2 pm
*Not meeting in December*
Hours
Mon-Thurs: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm
Sunday: Closed
Holiday Hours
Wed., Nov. 27: 9 am – 5 pm
Thurs., Nov. 28: Closed
Tues., Dec. 24: Closed
Wed., Dec. 25: Closed
Tues., Dec. 31: 9 am – 12 pm
Wed., Jan. 1: Closed
Antique Appraisals by Mark Moran
Saturday, December 7
10 am – 1 pm
Author and antiques expert Mark Moran will be offering antique appraisals at the Berlin Public Library for $15 per item. Part of the proceeds will go to benefit the Friends of the Library and the Berlin Area Historical Society. *Pre-registration at the Berlin Public Library is required and a cash or check payment is required at the time of registration.*
Make an ornament filled with mini books to commemorate your year of reading or to celebrate your favorite books. Registration by Dec. 7 is required. Email your chosen titles to adultservices@berlinlibrary.org by
Dec. 9! Call 920-361-5420 to sign up.
Friday Matinee
Friday, December 13 at 1 pm
Join us for a free showing of It Ends With Us (rated PG-13). Popcorn will be provided.
Holiday Friday Matinee
Friday, December 20 at 1 pm
Join us for a free showing of All Mine to Give (Not Rated), the 1957 film based on the book The Day They Gave Babies Away by Dale Eunson–a true story about Christmas 1868 in Eureka, WI.
Game Night
Friday, December 27 from 6 – 9 pm
Gather up your pals (or come solo to meet new ones) and join us after-hours at the library for board games and snacks! This event is for ages 16 and up. Bring a favorite board game to share or play one of the library’s many games!
The Elves have asked the library to help collect Letters to Santa! Stop in the library and pick up a letter for kids to fill out. Return it to the library by Dec. 9 so the letters can be mailed to the North Pole. Kids will receive a return letter from Santa. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Ugly Sweater DIY
Monday, December 9 from 3:30 – 5 pm
Craft your own Ugly Christmas Sweater! Bring your own sweater or sweatshirt and use our craft supplies to decorate it. This event is for Teens (Grade 6 and up), but ages 7-10 are welcome to participate with a helping adult. *Registration is required.*
Lego Challenge Mondays
Monday, December 2, 16, 30
from 3 – 5 pm
Do you love Legos? Come build with us in the children’s area every other Monday! Each Lego Challenge will have a theme, but free building is welcome! For ages 6-11.
Santa Storytime
Thursday, December 19 at 6 pm
Come listen to stories and songs, meet Santa, and join in the fun. Afterwards, tell Santa what you would like for Christmas and take pictures! *Registration is requested.*
Holiday Crafts
December 23 – 30
Drop by our craft station in the children’s area for 2 weeks of various Holiday-themed crafts and activities!
Family Movie & Pizza Night
Thursday, December 26 at 5 pm
Join us for a free showing of The Wild Robot (rated PG). Free pizza will be provided. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library *Registration is requested.*
Free 24/7 Access to eBooks, Audiobooks, & More!
Hoopla
Instantly read, listen, and watch with your Berlin Library card.
Libby
Borrow free eBooks, digital audiobooks, and magazines from your library.
Kanopy!
Instantly borrow and stream movies free with your library card.om
Winnefox library users now have access to Kanopy Kids, a video streaming platform collection that features entertaining and educational films, TV series, and videos for kids! Kanopy Kids includes developmentally appropriate, age-based ratings, as well as additional parental controls. Enjoy storybook adaptions, film shorts, and PBS/BBC shows.
Did someone say Give and Win? Yes, indeed! Don’t hesitate–give today for a chance to win a cash prize or a Mercury Marine motor. Donations must be received by December 31st.
Please consider a gift to United Way. Your donation helps support the important work of local nonprofits and connects the people in need to the people who can help. There are multiple ways to donate:
Text FDLUNITED to 26989
Visit our website at https://www.fdlunitedway.org/#donate for either one-time donations, to set up monthly donations, or to participate in round-up donations
Ask your company about payroll giving
Write out a check to Fond du Lac County United Way and send it to 74 S Main St, Suite 201, Fond du Lac, WI 54935
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
Happy December from the Berlin Public Library! Read on to learn about events, programs, and services offered this month at the library. Some programs may require registration. Click below to view a complete list of December programs:
Knitting/crocheting/needlework group that meets the last Tuesday of the month at 2 pm
*Not meeting in December*
Hours
Mon-Thurs: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm
Sunday: Closed
Holiday Hours
Wed., Nov. 27: 9 am – 5 pm
Thurs., Nov. 28: Closed
Tues., Dec. 24: Closed
Wed., Dec. 25: Closed
Tues., Dec. 31: 9 am – 12 pm
Wed., Jan. 1: Closed
Antique Appraisals by Mark Moran
Saturday, December 7
10 am – 1 pm
Author and antiques expert Mark Moran will be offering antique appraisals at the Berlin Public Library for $15 per item. Part of the proceeds will go to benefit the Friends of the Library and the Berlin Area Historical Society. *Pre-registration at the Berlin Public Library is required and a cash or check payment is required at the time of registration.*
Make an ornament filled with mini books to commemorate your year of reading or to celebrate your favorite books. Registration by Dec. 7 is required. Email your chosen titles to adultservices@berlinlibrary.org by
Dec. 9! Call 920-361-5420 to sign up.
Friday Matinee
Friday, December 13 at 1 pm
Join us for a free showing of It Ends With Us (rated PG-13). Popcorn will be provided.
Holiday Friday Matinee
Friday, December 20 at 1 pm
Join us for a free showing of All Mine to Give (Not Rated), the 1957 film based on the book The Day They Gave Babies Away by Dale Eunson–a true story about Christmas 1868 in Eureka, WI.
Game Night
Friday, December 27 from 6 – 9 pm
Gather up your pals (or come solo to meet new ones) and join us after-hours at the library for board games and snacks! This event is for ages 16 and up. Bring a favorite board game to share or play one of the library’s many games!
The Elves have asked the library to help collect Letters to Santa! Stop in the library and pick up a letter for kids to fill out. Return it to the library by Dec. 9 so the letters can be mailed to the North Pole. Kids will receive a return letter from Santa. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Ugly Sweater DIY
Monday, December 9 from 3:30 – 5 pm
Craft your own Ugly Christmas Sweater! Bring your own sweater or sweatshirt and use our craft supplies to decorate it. This event is for Teens (Grade 6 and up), but ages 7-10 are welcome to participate with a helping adult. *Registration is required.*
Lego Challenge Mondays
Monday, December 2, 16, 30
from 3 – 5 pm
Do you love Legos? Come build with us in the children’s area every other Monday! Each Lego Challenge will have a theme, but free building is welcome! For ages 6-11.
Santa Storytime
Thursday, December 19 at 6 pm
Come listen to stories and songs, meet Santa, and join in the fun. Afterwards, tell Santa what you would like for Christmas and take pictures! *Registration is requested.*
Holiday Crafts
December 23 – 30
Drop by our craft station in the children’s area for 2 weeks of various Holiday-themed crafts and activities!
Family Movie & Pizza Night
Thursday, December 26 at 5 pm
Join us for a free showing of The Wild Robot (rated PG). Free pizza will be provided. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library *Registration is requested.*
Free 24/7 Access to eBooks, Audiobooks, & More!
Hoopla
Instantly read, listen, and watch with your Berlin Library card.
Libby
Borrow free eBooks, digital audiobooks, and magazines from your library.
Kanopy!
Instantly borrow and stream movies free with your library card.om
Winnefox library users now have access to Kanopy Kids, a video streaming platform collection that features entertaining and educational films, TV series, and videos for kids! Kanopy Kids includes developmentally appropriate, age-based ratings, as well as additional parental controls. Enjoy storybook adaptions, film shorts, and PBS/BBC shows.
Did someone say Give and Win? Yes, indeed! Don’t hesitate–give today for a chance to win a cash prize or a Mercury Marine motor. Donations must be received by December 31st.
Please consider a gift to United Way. Your donation helps support the important work of local nonprofits and connects the people in need to the people who can help. There are multiple ways to donate:
Text FDLUNITED to 26989
Visit our website at https://www.fdlunitedway.org/#donate for either one-time donations, to set up monthly donations, or to participate in round-up donations
Ask your company about payroll giving
Write out a check to Fond du Lac County United Way and send it to 74 S Main St, Suite 201, Fond du Lac, WI 54935
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
Giving Tuesday is December 3rd! Support Ride United by donating this Giving Tuesday! Just $25 can help someone get to where they need to be! Text RIDEUNITED to 26989 on December 3rd to donate. United is the Way!
The group is open to anyone caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, with a purpose of providing mutual support, ideas, and understanding in a caring and confidential environment. There is no charge to participate.
For questions, or to inquire about meeting space for a community cause, call 920-807-0008.
Experience The Empty Pockets at Thrasher Opera House
Green Lake, Wis. (October 14, 2024) – The Empty Pockets – will perform at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin, on Thursday, December 5, at 7:30 p.m.
Fill your holiday season with the sounds of rock and modern blues! Chicago’s Billboard chart-topping quartet, The Empty Pockets, is bringing their ‘MistleTunes’ Holiday Concert to town. They breathe new life into beloved classics like “Silent Night” and “Run Run Rudolph” with their infectious energy. You’ll also enjoy their original tunes, such as “Party at the North Pole” and “Snow Day,” offering a refreshing twist on the usual holiday repertoire.
Join The Empty Pockets as they create a vibrant fusion of Americana, folk, and rock ‘n’ roll, infused with soulful roots, to light up your festivities!
The Empty Pockets’ performance is sponsored by Pinnacle Plumbing and Todd and Kara Weir. Hospitality support is provided by the Heidel House, Goose Blind, and Sturgeon Spirits. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for The Empty Pockets’ performance on December 5 at 7:30 p.m. are $26 and available at www.thrasheroperahouse.com or by calling 920.294.4279
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.
Experience The Empty Pockets at Thrasher Opera House
Green Lake, Wis. (October 14, 2024) – The Empty Pockets – will perform at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin, on Thursday, December 5, at 7:30 p.m.
Fill your holiday season with the sounds of rock and modern blues! Chicago’s Billboard chart-topping quartet, The Empty Pockets, is bringing their ‘MistleTunes’ Holiday Concert to town. They breathe new life into beloved classics like “Silent Night” and “Run Run Rudolph” with their infectious energy. You’ll also enjoy their original tunes, such as “Party at the North Pole” and “Snow Day,” offering a refreshing twist on the usual holiday repertoire.
Join The Empty Pockets as they create a vibrant fusion of Americana, folk, and rock ‘n’ roll, infused with soulful roots, to light up your festivities!
The Empty Pockets’ performance is sponsored by Pinnacle Plumbing and Todd and Kara Weir. Hospitality support is provided by the Heidel House, Goose Blind, and Sturgeon Spirits. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for The Empty Pockets’ performance on December 5 at 7:30 p.m. are $26 and available at www.thrasheroperahouse.com or by calling 920.294.4279
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 Scholarship Applications Open
Stevens Point, Wisconsin (December 4, 2024) – The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin (Community Foundation) is accepting scholarship applications now through February 15th from Central Wisconsin students planning to attend higher education.
Thanks to the generosity of individuals throughout Portage and Waushara counties, the Community Foundation will distribute more than $325,000 with award amounts between $500 to $40,000. Eligible scholarship applicants include graduating high school seniors, current college students, non-traditional students, and graduate students who are pursuing higher education at a university, technical college, or professional school.
“We really encourage everyone to apply because there is such a wide variety of scholarship opportunities depending on the applicants’ majors, skills, or interests,” stated Marlee Samuels, the Donor Services and Programs Director at the Community Foundation.
To learn more about scholarship opportunities and apply for this year’s scholarships, please visit the Community Foundation website at www.cfcwi.org/scholarships. The application deadline is February 15th at midnight.
The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin is a nonprofit 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.
The Lanes within The Howard – 405 Washington Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901
Event Date:
12.06.2024
Start & End Time:
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Event Details:
2024 is the first year for The Ball; a spin on the traditional Bowl for Kids’ Sake event. This upscale event will allow community members and Big Brothers Big Sisters supporters to enjoy an elegant evening at The Lanes within The Howard in Oshkosh. The event is 21+ only and will feature bowling, signature cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, and raffles.
Get ready to celebrate the season at Omro’s Jingle & Mingle on Saturday, December 7th! Located downtown at the former Dollar General building, explore the Craft & Vendor Fair, warm up with the Chili Cook-Off, meet adorable animals at the Outdoor Petting Zoo, come see Santa, and enjoy Carriage Rides and Food Trucks. The holiday fun continues throughout the city with Breakfast with Santa, Kids Activities, Business Specials, and the Omro Holiday Parade at 5 PM, followed by their Tree Lighting. Please see poster on their web site for timelines of all the different events!
Christmas, a glorious time filled with bright lights, packages and bows and an abundance of laughter and cheer. The festivities fill our calendars to the brim, but during this new ballet we want to focus on the season of advent, the season of arrival. Come with us on this journey to explore joy, love, hope, and peace in a new repertoire show. The ballet brings back some of our classic Christmas pieces you know and love, as well as brand new works. This family friendly performance will help refocus your mind on the themes of advent and be sure to leave you uplifted and enlighten.
December 5th-7th
The Bartell Theatre
December 8th
McComb Bruchs Performing Arts Center, · 2:30 – 3:30pm CST
$50,000 in Major Grants Awarded by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin to Local Impact Projects
Stevens Point, Wisconsin (Dec 5, 2024) – The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin (Community Foundation) is proud to announce the 2024 Major Projects Grants have been awarded. The Jensen Community Center will receive a $25,000 grant, and the Waushara County Animal Shelter will also receive $25,000.
These Major Projects offer a chance to make a difference in the lives of people who call Portage and Waushara Counties home. They bring different parts of our community together to work on a shared goal.
The Jensen Community Center will use its grant to increase capacity and improve safety with plans for an outdoor terrace, fire protection, and an expanded theater stage. Demand for their community space has steadily grown as local organizations rely on the location to host events, meetings, and learning opportunities. The expansion will create much-needed space for community-wide gatherings and private events such as weddings and memorials.
“The Jensen Community Center is truly the hub of the community, bringing together patrons of all ages and providing experiences that overlap the generational divide. The Community Foundation Major Projects grant will allow us to move forward with the last stage of the 3Stage Expansion Project and lends greater credibility to our enhancement project and its donors,” shares Sandra Lynne Schmutzler, Ed.D., the President of Jensen Community Center’s Board of Directors.
The grant for Waushara County Animal Shelter will fund an expansion project, providing more space for stray dogs and helping manage overflow from nearby counties. This project keeps tax dollars local, reduces transportation costs, and ensures quicker access to care through a local veterinary partner.
“In April, my family and I were notified by a volunteer and family friend of a young adult dog named Uno who needed a home. I had always had a dog growing up and in adulthood, but I had never adopted one from a shelter. I was hesitant to adopt with the fear of the unknown. The Waushara County Animal Shelter gave me a very honest assessment of Uno and spent a number of weeks acclimating him to different social situations. When they felt he was ready, they were so flexible and allowed us to foster before committing to adoption. Within just one day, we knew Uno had found his forever home. He’s become an irreplaceable part of our family, and we are so grateful to the Waushara County Animal Shelter for everything they did to make
this possible. We are truly blessed to have him,” shares Andrea, who adopted her furry friend from the Waushara County Animal Shelter.
Community Foundation Board Member and Grants Committee Chair Rachel Pekowsky shares, “I am very excited to see the Community Foundation having the opportunity to partner with the Jensen Center and Waushara County Animal Shelter during the major grant cycle because it allows these organizations to meet their goals and help the communities they serve. The major grant cycle really allows the community members and organizations a voice in where the funds are best used. As a grant committee member, it is so rewarding to be a part of the process and see those organizations continue to grow and make a positive impact in the community.”
The Major Project grant cycle supports the growth and development of a community project that makes a significant impact in Portage and/or Waushara Counties. Our Community Grants are open to programs and projects in Portage and Waushara counties that align with our values and five mission areas. For more information regarding the Community Foundation’s grants process, please contact Sarah Ross, Director of Community Grants, at 715-342-4454 or sarah@cfcwi.org.
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About the Jensen Community Center
The Jensen Community Center supports the community by providing opportunities for all individuals to connect, learn, and grow through diverse and engaging activities, programs, and events. Constructed in 1988, with funds donated as a memorial to Lettie W. Jensen, it is privately owned and operated by the Amherst Area Foundation. Since 1988, area residents have been well-served by the Jensen Community Center offerings and contribute to the quality of life in the area. Learn more at https://jensencenter.org.
About the Waushara County Animal Shelter
The Waushara County Animal Shelter is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to temporarily helping the displaced cats and dogs of Waushara County while finding them wonderful forever homes. They play a key role in the community through programs that support trap/neuter/release, veterinary care, fostering, and rehoming. Learn more at www.wausharacoanimalshelter.com.
About the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin
The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin inspires charitable giving by connecting people and resources to enhance Central Wisconsin now and for future generations. Visit us online at www.cfcwi.org.
Community Foundation Grant Opportunities Open January 1
Stevens Point, Wisconsin (December 12, 2024) – The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin (Community Foundation) will be accepting grant applications from January 1 to January 31. Several grant cycles will be available with awards announced in March.
The Women’s Fund of Portage County will welcome applications from nonprofits and established charitable organizations serving women of Portage County. This year, the Women’s Fund will be granting $14,360 to programs focused on mental and behavioral health access, childcare expansion, and support for financial wellness and independence for Portage County women.
The Partner Grants process is designed for one-time requests from nonprofit or charitable groups. Applications may ask for up to $5,000 and must be focused on a particular project. This grant cycle is open to programs and projects in Portage and Waushara counties that align with our values and five mission areas. Up to $75,000 in Portage County and up to $30,000 in Waushara County will be distributed to our Partner grantees in total.
Eligible organizations include nonprofit 501c3 agencies that are state and federal tax exempt and in good standing with the IRS. The Community Foundation will consider applications from public, charter, parochial schools, or government entities. Also eligible are established community groups wishing to complete a community project for the benefit of the general public of Portage or Waushara County.
All applications can be accessed and completed through our website. To learn more about grant opportunities and apply for this year’s awards, please visit the Community Foundation website at www.cfcwi.org. Make sure to save the date for the application processes and reach out to Sarah Ross, Director of Community Grants and the Women’s Fund, at sarah@cfcwi.org or 715-342-4454 if you have any questions.
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.
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, comes to Ripon this December.
Ripon Area Community Theater presents the 1946 Christmas classic adapted for the stage by Joe Landry. Experience the warmth and magic as guardian angel–second class–Clarence Oddbody rescues George Bailey from the brink of despair, showing him what the world would be like if George were never born.
Audiences can enjoy the show, a mixture of drama, comedy and radio sleight-of-hand, this December 13th and 14th at 7:00 pm or December 15th at 2:00 pm. Tickets for It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play are$10.00 at the door, $5.00 for ages 6-12 and free entrance for those ages 5 and under. All shows will be held at the Ripon High School Auditorium.Tickets may also be purchased in advance at:
So come, relive the heartwarming tale or see it for the first time this holiday season!
“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” (full length version) is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection (www.dramatists.com).
Original Music and Musical Arrangements by Kevin Connors.
Green Lake, Wis. (October 21, 2024) – Mr. Sun –will perform at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin, on Friday, December 13, at 7:30 p.m.
Mr. Sun comprises some of the most original musicians to apply themselves to the American String Band. Legendary fiddler Darol Anger is at home in a number of musical genres, some of which he helped to invent, and is a member of the original “nuclear” generation of pickers who extended Bluegrass, Jazz, and Classical music to find their common ground; Mr. Sun is the latest iteration in that legacy. Joe K. Walsh is one of the foremost contemporary mandolinists, with 4 award-winning years in the Gibson Brothers, 3 solo recordings, and a Berklee professorship. Grant Gordy is a standout in the crowded field of Acoustic Guitar Wunderkinds. Grant’s work was quickly recognized for its kaleidoscopic excellence and startling emotion, fusing Jazz, R&B, and Bluegrass concepts to an unprecedented degree. The group recently added the masterful bassist Aidan O’Donnell, a Brooklyn, New York (by way of Scotland) jazz veteran. Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite contains some of the most beloved and familiar melodies in the Western world. Mr. Sun has seized upon the inspiration of Duke Ellington’s brilliant, sly, & urbane re-interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s Suite as an opportunity to salute and re-invent this wildly multi-faceted work anew through the lens of the American String Band, a musical form which now contains myriad styles and is presently engaged in a marathon upheaval of innovation and expansion. The Project has been generously underwritten by the Freshgrass Foundation.
The Mr. Sun’s performance is sponsored by Heidel House, Goose Blind, and Sturgeon Spirits. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for Mr. Sun’s performance on December 13 at 7:30 p.m. are $25 and available at www.thrasheroperahouse.com or by calling 920.294.4279
Sunnyview Exposition Center Oshkosh – 500 E County Rd Y Oshkosh, WI 54901
Event Date:
12.14.2024
Start & End Time:
9:00am-3:00pm
Event Details:
Get ready for a festive day of holiday cheer at the Crazy Craftsmas Craft Fair on December 14th! Join us at the Sunnyview Expo Center in Oshkosh from 9 AM to 3 PM for a spectacular event filled with unique handmade crafts, perfect for all your holiday shopping needs. Admission is just $3, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the Amyloidosis Foundation’s vital work in research and patient care. Explore a wide array of beautiful decorations, cozy winter wear, and one-of-a-kind gifts that are sure to delight your loved ones. We also have a delicious food vendor lined up offering hot beef sandwiches, nachos, walking tacos and more! Make sure to stop by our silent auction, where all proceeds will benefit the Amyloidosis Foundation! It’s the perfect way to enjoy the holiday season while giving back to a great cause!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 28, 2024 CONTACT: Jason Mansmith 920.294.4279 jason@thrasheroperahouse.com
Experience The Alley Cats at Thrasher Opera House
Green Lake, Wis. (October 28, 2024) – The Alley Cats – will perform at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin, on Saturday, December 14, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
A perfect blend of musical talent and comic timing. Their interaction with audiences combined with their spontaneous humor makes each show refreshing and exciting. The Alley Cats never miss a beat as they bring their own contemporary style to the great songs of the 50s and 60s. Together, their freshness and talent make them truly the Cat’s Meow.
This concert will feature holiday songs such as Let It Snow, Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas, Blue Christmas, O Come All Ye Faithful, Sleigh Ride, Feliz Navidad, Rudolph and Silent Night.
The Alley Cats’ performance is presented by Gold Sponsors – Sassafras Coffee and Onward Financial Network, sponsored by Horicon Bank, Heidel House, Goose Blind, and Sturgeon Spirits. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for The Alley Cats’ performance on December 14 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. are $25 and available at www.thrasheroperahouse.com or by calling 920.294.4279
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.
Green Lake, Wis. (October 28, 2024) – The Alley Cats – will perform at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin, on Saturday, December 14, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
A perfect blend of musical talent and comic timing. Their interaction with audiences combined with their spontaneous humor makes each show refreshing and exciting. The Alley Cats never miss a beat as they bring their own contemporary style to the great songs of the 50s and 60s. Together, their freshness and talent make them truly the Cat’s Meow.
This concert will feature holiday songs such as Let It Snow, Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas, Blue Christmas, O Come All Ye Faithful, Sleigh Ride, Feliz Navidad, Rudolph and Silent Night.
The Alley Cats’ performance is presented by Gold Sponsors – Sassafras Coffee and Onward Financial Network, sponsored by Horicon Bank, Heidel House, Goose Blind, and Sturgeon Spirits. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for The Alley Cats’ performance on December 14 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. are $25 and available at www.thrasheroperahouse.com or by calling 920.294.4279
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.
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, comes to Ripon this December.
Ripon Area Community Theater presents the 1946 Christmas classic adapted for the stage by Joe Landry. Experience the warmth and magic as guardian angel–second class–Clarence Oddbody rescues George Bailey from the brink of despair, showing him what the world would be like if George were never born.
Audiences can enjoy the show, a mixture of drama, comedy and radio sleight-of-hand, this December 13th and 14th at 7:00 pm or December 15th at 2:00 pm. Tickets for It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play are$10.00 at the door, $5.00 for ages 6-12 and free entrance for those ages 5 and under. All shows will be held at the Ripon High School Auditorium.Tickets may also be purchased in advance at:
So come, relive the heartwarming tale or see it for the first time this holiday season!
“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” (full length version) is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection (www.dramatists.com).
Original Music and Musical Arrangements by Kevin Connors.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 28, 2024 CONTACT: Jason Mansmith 920.294.4279 jason@thrasheroperahouse.com
Experience The Alley Cats at Thrasher Opera House
Green Lake, Wis. (October 28, 2024) – The Alley Cats – will perform at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin, on Saturday, December 14, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
A perfect blend of musical talent and comic timing. Their interaction with audiences combined with their spontaneous humor makes each show refreshing and exciting. The Alley Cats never miss a beat as they bring their own contemporary style to the great songs of the 50s and 60s. Together, their freshness and talent make them truly the Cat’s Meow.
This concert will feature holiday songs such as Let It Snow, Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas, Blue Christmas, O Come All Ye Faithful, Sleigh Ride, Feliz Navidad, Rudolph and Silent Night.
The Alley Cats’ performance is presented by Gold Sponsors – Sassafras Coffee and Onward Financial Network, sponsored by Horicon Bank, Heidel House, Goose Blind, and Sturgeon Spirits. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for The Alley Cats’ performance on December 14 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. are $25 and available at www.thrasheroperahouse.com or by calling 920.294.4279
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.
Sunnyview Exposition Center Oshkosh – 500 E County Rd Y Oshkosh, WI 54901
Event Date:
12.14.2024
Start & End Time:
9:00am-3:00pm
Event Details:
Get ready for a festive day of holiday cheer at the Crazy Craftsmas Craft Fair on December 14th! Join us at the Sunnyview Expo Center in Oshkosh from 9 AM to 3 PM for a spectacular event filled with unique handmade crafts, perfect for all your holiday shopping needs. Admission is just $3, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the Amyloidosis Foundation’s vital work in research and patient care. Explore a wide array of beautiful decorations, cozy winter wear, and one-of-a-kind gifts that are sure to delight your loved ones. We also have a delicious food vendor lined up offering hot beef sandwiches, nachos, walking tacos and more! Make sure to stop by our silent auction, where all proceeds will benefit the Amyloidosis Foundation! It’s the perfect way to enjoy the holiday season while giving back to a great cause!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 28, 2024 CONTACT: Jason Mansmith 920.294.4279 jason@thrasheroperahouse.com
Experience The Alley Cats at Thrasher Opera House
Green Lake, Wis. (October 28, 2024) – The Alley Cats – will perform at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin, on Saturday, December 14, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
A perfect blend of musical talent and comic timing. Their interaction with audiences combined with their spontaneous humor makes each show refreshing and exciting. The Alley Cats never miss a beat as they bring their own contemporary style to the great songs of the 50s and 60s. Together, their freshness and talent make them truly the Cat’s Meow.
This concert will feature holiday songs such as Let It Snow, Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas, Blue Christmas, O Come All Ye Faithful, Sleigh Ride, Feliz Navidad, Rudolph and Silent Night.
The Alley Cats’ performance is presented by Gold Sponsors – Sassafras Coffee and Onward Financial Network, sponsored by Horicon Bank, Heidel House, Goose Blind, and Sturgeon Spirits. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for The Alley Cats’ performance on December 14 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. are $25 and available at www.thrasheroperahouse.com or by calling 920.294.4279
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.
Green Lake, Wis. (October 28, 2024) – The Alley Cats – will perform at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin, on Saturday, December 14, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
A perfect blend of musical talent and comic timing. Their interaction with audiences combined with their spontaneous humor makes each show refreshing and exciting. The Alley Cats never miss a beat as they bring their own contemporary style to the great songs of the 50s and 60s. Together, their freshness and talent make them truly the Cat’s Meow.
This concert will feature holiday songs such as Let It Snow, Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas, Blue Christmas, O Come All Ye Faithful, Sleigh Ride, Feliz Navidad, Rudolph and Silent Night.
The Alley Cats’ performance is presented by Gold Sponsors – Sassafras Coffee and Onward Financial Network, sponsored by Horicon Bank, Heidel House, Goose Blind, and Sturgeon Spirits. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for The Alley Cats’ performance on December 14 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. are $25 and available at www.thrasheroperahouse.com or by calling 920.294.4279
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.
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, comes to Ripon this December.
Ripon Area Community Theater presents the 1946 Christmas classic adapted for the stage by Joe Landry. Experience the warmth and magic as guardian angel–second class–Clarence Oddbody rescues George Bailey from the brink of despair, showing him what the world would be like if George were never born.
Audiences can enjoy the show, a mixture of drama, comedy and radio sleight-of-hand, this December 13th and 14th at 7:00 pm or December 15th at 2:00 pm. Tickets for It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play are$10.00 at the door, $5.00 for ages 6-12 and free entrance for those ages 5 and under. All shows will be held at the Ripon High School Auditorium.Tickets may also be purchased in advance at:
So come, relive the heartwarming tale or see it for the first time this holiday season!
“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” (full length version) is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection (www.dramatists.com).
Original Music and Musical Arrangements by Kevin Connors.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 28, 2024 CONTACT: Jason Mansmith 920.294.4279 jason@thrasheroperahouse.com
Experience The Alley Cats at Thrasher Opera House
Green Lake, Wis. (October 28, 2024) – The Alley Cats – will perform at Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wisconsin, on Saturday, December 14, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
A perfect blend of musical talent and comic timing. Their interaction with audiences combined with their spontaneous humor makes each show refreshing and exciting. The Alley Cats never miss a beat as they bring their own contemporary style to the great songs of the 50s and 60s. Together, their freshness and talent make them truly the Cat’s Meow.
This concert will feature holiday songs such as Let It Snow, Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas, Blue Christmas, O Come All Ye Faithful, Sleigh Ride, Feliz Navidad, Rudolph and Silent Night.
The Alley Cats’ performance is presented by Gold Sponsors – Sassafras Coffee and Onward Financial Network, sponsored by Horicon Bank, Heidel House, Goose Blind, and Sturgeon Spirits. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for The Alley Cats’ performance on December 14 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. are $25 and available at www.thrasheroperahouse.com or by calling 920.294.4279
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.
Fox Cities Swing Band to perform free Holiday Concert at Thrasher Opera House
Green Lake, Wis. (October 21, 2024) – The Fox Cities Swing Band will perform a free Holiday Concert as a Gift to the Community at the historic Thrasher Opera House on Sunday, December 15, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.
The Fox Cities Swing Band has been together for over twelve years. The band specializes in the ’40s and ’50s jazz standards from the significant band era. The ensemble comprises a variety of musicians from all over the Fox Valley area. On average, the ensemble plays six to ten times yearly for events at retirement communities, fundraisers, birthday parties, community events, and wedding receptions. Members manage the band. This show is free to attend at Thrasher Opera House.
Steve and Brigid Yeomans are sponsoring this show. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
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
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, comes to Ripon this December.
Ripon Area Community Theater presents the 1946 Christmas classic adapted for the stage by Joe Landry. Experience the warmth and magic as guardian angel–second class–Clarence Oddbody rescues George Bailey from the brink of despair, showing him what the world would be like if George were never born.
Audiences can enjoy the show, a mixture of drama, comedy and radio sleight-of-hand, this December 13th and 14th at 7:00 pm or December 15th at 2:00 pm. Tickets for It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play are$10.00 at the door, $5.00 for ages 6-12 and free entrance for those ages 5 and under. All shows will be held at the Ripon High School Auditorium.Tickets may also be purchased in advance at:
So come, relive the heartwarming tale or see it for the first time this holiday season!
“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” (full length version) is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection (www.dramatists.com).
Original Music and Musical Arrangements by Kevin Connors.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 21, 2024 CONTACT: Jason Mansmith 920.294.4279 jason@thrasheroperahouse.com
Fox Cities Swing Band to perform free Holiday Concert at Thrasher Opera House
Green Lake, Wis. (October 21, 2024) – The Fox Cities Swing Band will perform a free Holiday Concert as a Gift to the Community at the historic Thrasher Opera House on Sunday, December 15, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.
The Fox Cities Swing Band has been together for over twelve years. The band specializes in the ’40s and ’50s jazz standards from the significant band era. The ensemble comprises a variety of musicians from all over the Fox Valley area. On average, the ensemble plays six to ten times yearly for events at retirement communities, fundraisers, birthday parties, community events, and wedding receptions. Members manage the band. This show is free to attend at Thrasher Opera House.
Steve and Brigid Yeomans are sponsoring this show. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
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
Fox Cities Swing Band to perform free Holiday Concert at Thrasher Opera House
Green Lake, Wis. (October 21, 2024) – The Fox Cities Swing Band will perform a free Holiday Concert as a Gift to the Community at the historic Thrasher Opera House on Sunday, December 15, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.
The Fox Cities Swing Band has been together for over twelve years. The band specializes in the ’40s and ’50s jazz standards from the significant band era. The ensemble comprises a variety of musicians from all over the Fox Valley area. On average, the ensemble plays six to ten times yearly for events at retirement communities, fundraisers, birthday parties, community events, and wedding receptions. Members manage the band. This show is free to attend at Thrasher Opera House.
Steve and Brigid Yeomans are sponsoring this show. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
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
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, comes to Ripon this December.
Ripon Area Community Theater presents the 1946 Christmas classic adapted for the stage by Joe Landry. Experience the warmth and magic as guardian angel–second class–Clarence Oddbody rescues George Bailey from the brink of despair, showing him what the world would be like if George were never born.
Audiences can enjoy the show, a mixture of drama, comedy and radio sleight-of-hand, this December 13th and 14th at 7:00 pm or December 15th at 2:00 pm. Tickets for It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play are$10.00 at the door, $5.00 for ages 6-12 and free entrance for those ages 5 and under. All shows will be held at the Ripon High School Auditorium.Tickets may also be purchased in advance at:
So come, relive the heartwarming tale or see it for the first time this holiday season!
“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” (full length version) is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection (www.dramatists.com).
Original Music and Musical Arrangements by Kevin Connors.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 21, 2024 CONTACT: Jason Mansmith 920.294.4279 jason@thrasheroperahouse.com
Fox Cities Swing Band to perform free Holiday Concert at Thrasher Opera House
Green Lake, Wis. (October 21, 2024) – The Fox Cities Swing Band will perform a free Holiday Concert as a Gift to the Community at the historic Thrasher Opera House on Sunday, December 15, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.
The Fox Cities Swing Band has been together for over twelve years. The band specializes in the ’40s and ’50s jazz standards from the significant band era. The ensemble comprises a variety of musicians from all over the Fox Valley area. On average, the ensemble plays six to ten times yearly for events at retirement communities, fundraisers, birthday parties, community events, and wedding receptions. Members manage the band. This show is free to attend at Thrasher Opera House.
Steve and Brigid Yeomans are sponsoring this show. This event is supported in part by a grant from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
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 group is open to anyone caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, with a purpose of providing mutual support, ideas, and understanding in a caring and confidential environment. There is no charge to participate.
For questions, or to inquire about meeting space for a community cause, call 920-807-0008.
120 Jefferson Street |Ripon WI 54971| 920-748-6160
PRESS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
12/16/2024
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 January 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.
SAT JAN 4 | 10 AM | HAPPY (BIRTHDAY) NEW YEAR! | FOR KIDS, FAMILIES, & THE YOUNG AT HEART! Kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.
We’re honoring all the birthdays in 2025 with a cupcake decorating buffet at 10 AM! Next, at 10:30 AM, enjoy the original, classic movie filled with toys. The story begins with Andy’s birthday party and his new favorite gift, the inimitable Buzz Light Year! | G | 81 MIN | On the big screen, in stereo!
SUN JAN 12 | 1-4 PM | D&D GAME TIME | AGES 11+
Always wanted to delve into the iconic D&D role-playing game but found it daunting? Local Dungeon Masters guide players through one-shot adventures. Beginners welcome! No registration necessary.
MON JAN 13| 2 PM | MONDAY MOVIE MATINEE
This movie is the story of Julian’s grandmother, Grandmère. Traveling back to her traumatic childhood, she recounts her time as a Jewish girl in Nazi-occupied France. Seeking shelter in a small village, she finds a family who takes her in and hides her away from the Nazi forces. What follows is a poignant tale about friendship and survival in the most difficult times. —Swank
Enjoy a family-friendly movie on the big screen with complimentary popcorn! Visit the library website for title and rating information.
MON JAN 13 | DROP-IN 3:30-6:30 PM | READY TO READ! | KIDS PRESCHOOL to 5TH GRADE, THEIR ADULTS, EDUCATORS
Words are EVERYWHERE! We read for fun, to learn, to connect with others and ideas, to work, and more. On Monday, November 11 between 3:30 and 6:30 PM, drop into the children’s department for a fun and informational reading-focused evening.
Discover ways to support and nurture a love of reading through engaging activity stations. Learn to use the powerful database Novelist, a premier tool for finding good books for every reader! Novelist is an easy-to-use timesaver and empowers users of all ages to discover book recommendations based on reading level and interests. Enjoy this journey into a lifetime of reading plus homemade cookies courtesy of the Friends of the Ripon Public Library!
WEDS JAN 15 – FEB 19 | 10 AM | BABY BOUNCE | A GROUP FITNESS TIME FOR CAREGIVERS, THEIR BABIES & PRESCHOOLERS!
Callista Wesner, M.S. Exercise Science, hosts fun, friendly fitness sessions to combat the winter blahs! A variety of adult/child sizes, ages and abilities will be supported with a range of options and instruction. Attend all of the sessions or select those fitting your schedule.
You can expect:
to be active for 15-20 minutes.
to interact with & involve your child as is appropriate for you both.
music and movement.
a Q&A time + take home tips.
each week to be unique.
All participants, adults and children, must have a liability waiver completed in advance. Waivers are available for pick up at the library or via the library website. After Baby Bounce all are welcome to STAY & PLAY in the Romper Room.
THURS JAN 16-FEB 27 | 10 AM | STORYTIME FOR KIDS & FAMILIES | NO REGISTRATION
Welcome to active learning & fun, where early literacy & STEM concepts come to life through stories, music, movement, and enrichment activities. It’s a happy place for kids and caregivers to learn and play. After Storytime, Stay-and-Play in the Romper Room! This active space allows kids to release excess energy and advance their physical skills all while supporting social connections for kids and their adults.
WED JAN 15 | 6-8 PM | ADULT GAME NIGHT | AGES 16+
Join us on the 3rd Wednesday of every month for an evening of modern board games. We teach, you play! Check our website/Facebook for featured game(s). Recurring event, 3rd Wednesday of each month.
THU JAN 16 | SMARTPHONE 101: ANDROID PHONES | RIPON SENIOR CENTER | 1 PM
Discover the full potential of your smartphone with guidance from library staff for downloading apps and mastering navigation, empowering you to explore the world of technology confidently.
Get crafty with those old books and whip up some fabulous snowmen! Time to unleash your inner artist. Let the snowy fun begin! Call to register by Jan 14. Youth need adult supervision.
THU JAN 23 | SMARTPHONE 101: APPLE PHONES | RIPON SENIOR CENTER | 1 PM
Discover the full potential of your smartphone with guidance from library staff for downloading apps and mastering navigation, empowering you to explore the world of technology confidently.
SAT JAN 25 | FAMILY GAME DAY | 12-4 PM | ALL AGES
Join us for a day of family-friendly tabletop gaming! Enjoy a variety of games for all ages sourced from the library’s board game collection. Try out something new with the guided help of staff & volunteers, play a tried-&-true classic, or just network with fellow board game enthusiasts. We’ll have play-to-win prizes and snacks, too. Family friendly, but not only for kids!
MON JAN 27 | 2 PM | CLASSIC MOVIE MONDAY
Cary Grant stars as the one sane member of a charmingly lunatic family in director Frank Capra’s classic comedy. When Mortimer Brewster (Grant) brings his new bride to meet his two kindly aunts, he discovers that, among many other acts of charity, the two genteel ladies help lonely old men die happy … by feeding them a wonderful meal before poisoning them. Now, Mortimer desperately wants to protect the two serial murderers he loves, stop them from killing anyone else and keep his bride from discovering how deranged his family really is. —Swank
Join us and relive the glory days of the black and white movies! Complimentary popcorn available. Visit the library website for title and rating information.
MON JAN 27 | 6:30-7:30 PM | ADULT BOOK DISCUSSION: Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
Set against the backdrop of the southern Appalachian Mountains, Demon Copperhead tells the story of a boy born to a teenage single mother living in a single-wide trailer. He possesses little more than his deceased father’s striking looks, copper-colored hair, sharp wit, and a remarkable instinct for survival. Narrated in his candid voice, Demon confronts the harsh realities of foster care, child labor, failing schools, athletic achievement, addiction, tumultuous relationships, and profound losses. Throughout his journey, he grapples with his own invisibility in a culture where even superheroes have overlooked rural communities in favor of urban locales.
Charles Dickens penned David Copperfield generations ago, drawing from his experiences as a survivor of institutional poverty and its impact on children of his era. Unfortunately, many of those issues remain unresolved in our society today. While familiarity with Dickens is not necessary for readers of this novel, he certainly inspired its creation. In adapting a Victorian epic to the modern American South, Barbara Kingsolver harnesses Dickens’ anger, compassion, and most importantly, his belief in the transformative power of storytelling. Demon Copperhead serves as a voice for a new generation of lost boys and for those born into beautiful yet cursed places they cannot envision escaping.
DROP-IN BOREDOM BUSTERS
Come play in the Romper Room. Physical activity and human connections are important for healthy, happy human beings, and the Romper Room facilitates both! Focusing on active play, the room features trikes, foot-to-floor vehicles, a balance bike, tunnels, tumbling mats, balance beams, and more. The Romper Room, which is open during regular library hours, is most engaging for ages 2-6 years, though younger/older kids are welcome.
Enjoy the always-available board games, toy library, and activity sheets located in the youth department.
Visit the community table where there is always a puzzle in progress! Stay for a bit and place a few pieces or settle in for a longer session.
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.
Happy New Year from the Berlin Public Library! Read on to learn about events, programs, and services offered this month at the library. Some programs may require registration. Click below to view a complete list of January programs:
Knitting/crocheting/needlework group that meets the last Tuesday of the month at 2 pm
Hours
Mon – Thurs: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm
Sunday: Closed
Holiday Hours
Tues., Dec. 24: Closed
Wed., Dec. 25: Closed
Tues., Dec. 31: 9 am – 12 pm
Wed., Jan. 1: Closed
New at the Library
New Meeting Room in Progress!
A new meeting room on the second floor of the library will be available for booking soon! This project is made possible by our generous donors!
Ancestry Library Edition Now Available
Ancestry Library Edition is now available for patrons to use onsite at the library. Ancestry Library Edition offers access to genealogical collections from around the world, including census, vital, church, court, and immigration records. Visit the library to use this valuable resource! Find the link on our website!
Winter Reading Challenge
January 15 – February 28
We challenge patrons of all ages to read 1,000 minutes by February 28! All readers who complete the challenge will be entered into a grand prize drawing and will have overdue fees forgiven on their library accounts. Prize winners will get to choose a $25 gift card from a list of local establishments.
Participate on the Beanstack Tracker App or visit our Beanstack site to get started. Don’t want to participate on Beanstack? Pick up a paper log at the library!
Race against other teams to complete a 300-piece puzzle in 90 minutes. A prize will be awarded to the team that completes their puzzle first! Team captains must register their teams of up to 3 players by January 9.
Manifest your dreams for 2025! Select words and images from magazines that resonate with your goals or inspire you. Then, cut and paste them into a collage that will serve as a visual representation of your intentions for the year ahead.
Registration is required. Call the library at 920-361-5420 to sign up!
Friday Matinee – Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
Friday, January 24 at 1 pm
Join us for a free showing of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (rated PG-13).
Dungeons & Dragons
Friday, January 24 from 6 – 9 pm
Come play a campaign of Dungeons & Dragons at the library. Bring your own level 3 character to join in the adventure (premade characters may be provided upon request). Dice will be available for all to use.
Registration is required. Call the library at 920-361-5420 to sign up!
Youth & Teen Programs
Giant Twister
Monday, January 6 at 3:30 pm
What’s cooler than regular board games? Giant board games, of course! Swing by the library and get ready to twist and shout with giant twister! For ages 6-12.
Registration is requested.
Snow Project Day with 4-H
Tuesday, January 14 at 4 pm
Join 4-H Program Educator Brandon Springer to learn all about how snow is made and create your own snowstorm in a jar, what salt does to ice while making a frozen treat, and having an indoor “snowball” fight! This event is for anyone under 18, but ages 10 and under need a helping adult.
Looking for something to do on your day off from school? Come to the library and learn how to make Origami with a librarian! For ages 11-17.
Registration is requested.
Teen Library Club
Monday, January 20 at 11:30 am
Meet with other teens and create and run your own programs at the library! 6th-12th graders interested in joining should contact Makayla at youthservices@berlinlibrary.org
Free 24/7 Access to eBooks, Audiobooks, & More!
Libby
Borrow free eBooks, digital audiobooks, and magazines from Wisconsin’s Digital Library.
hoopla
Instantly read, listen, and watch with your Berlin Library card.
Kanopy
Instantly borrow and stream movies free with your library card. Also try Kanopy Kids.
Community Foundation Grant Opportunities Open January 1
Stevens Point, Wisconsin (December 12, 2024) – The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin (Community Foundation) will be accepting grant applications from January 1 to January 31. Several grant cycles will be available with awards announced in March.
The Women’s Fund of Portage County will welcome applications from nonprofits and established charitable organizations serving women of Portage County. This year, the Women’s Fund will be granting $14,360 to programs focused on mental and behavioral health access, childcare expansion, and support for financial wellness and independence for Portage County women.
The Partner Grants process is designed for one-time requests from nonprofit or charitable groups. Applications may ask for up to $5,000 and must be focused on a particular project. This grant cycle is open to programs and projects in Portage and Waushara counties that align with our values and five mission areas. Up to $75,000 in Portage County and up to $30,000 in Waushara County will be distributed to our Partner grantees in total.
Eligible organizations include nonprofit 501c3 agencies that are state and federal tax exempt and in good standing with the IRS. The Community Foundation will consider applications from public, charter, parochial schools, or government entities. Also eligible are established community groups wishing to complete a community project for the benefit of the general public of Portage or Waushara County.
All applications can be accessed and completed through our website. To learn more about grant opportunities and apply for this year’s awards, please visit the Community Foundation website at www.cfcwi.org. Make sure to save the date for the application processes and reach out to Sarah Ross, Director of Community Grants and the Women’s Fund, at sarah@cfcwi.org or 715-342-4454 if you have any questions.
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.
