http://doorcountytoday.com/index.php/news/news-releases/ Sun, 19 May 2013 02:20:03 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/jacksonport-prepares-for-41st-annual-maifest/ JACKSONPORT, WI (May 15, 2013) – A weekend of fun and excitement is on tap in Jacksonport over Memorial Day weekend as the community prepares for the 41st annual Maifest celebration, scheduled for Saturday May 25 and Sunday May 26, 2013. Since 1973, the community has hosted Door County’s unofficial summer kick off festival along the lakeshore at Lakeside Park, located at the intersection of County V and Highway 57. New this year, helicopter rides will offer visitors exhilarating aerial views of Jacksonport and the Lake Michigan coastline. The rides will take off and land at the lot on highway 57 across from Bley’s Grocery, one block north of Lakeside Park. Other event highlights will include the grand parade at 10:30 AM on Saturday, a juried arts and crafts fair beginning at 9 AM both days, live music in the performance tent both days, the Maifest 10K and 2 mile fun run at 9 AM on Sunday and the Frontier Farmers horse pull begins at 1 PM on Sunday at the ballpark. Food and beverages will be available all weekend and inflatable activities with a variety of games will also be available both days in the Maifest Family Midway. The juried arts and crafts fair begins at 9 AM both Saturday and Sunday and will feature nearly 100 artists and craftspeople from aroud the Midwest. The popular Maifest parade begins its 41st running at 10:30 AM on Saturday and will run through Jacksonport along Hwy 57, from Cave Point Drive on the south end of town down past the Square Rigger Lodge on the north end of town. This year’s honorary parade marshals are longtime Maifest volunteers Dean and Cheryl Larson. Both have been involved for many years with working and helping to coordinate the Maifest brat stand operation. If you’ve eaten a brat or hot dog at Maifest, Dean or Cheryl likely had a hand in preparing or serving it. They are proud to be the third generation in Dean’s family to be parade marshals at Maifest. Dean’s parents, Pete & Marlene Larson, and his grandparents, Emanuel and Eleanor Miller, were also Maifest parade marshals. Be sure to wave and congratulate Dean and Cheryl as they lead the 41st annual Maifest Parade. Immediately following the parade, there will be a special Memorial Day weekend presentation of the flag by V.F.W. Post 3088 in Lakeside Park. A special Maypole dancing ceremony will take place at 12 noon in the park as well. The Maifest Family Midway in Lakeside Park will be open for fun starting at 11:30 AM on both Saturday and Sunday and will feature a variety of fun inflatable activities and a variety of games. On Saturday, the Maifest Family Midway will also feature pony rides by the 4-H Horse & Pony Project. Live entertainment will be available both days in the performance tent, located in Lakeside Park next to the concession stand, with a performance by longtime festival favorite Jerry Voelker & His Jolly Gents beginning at 12 noon on Saturday. On Sunday, the performance tent will showcase the music of the Modern Day Drifters from 11 to 3 PM. Plenty of great food and beverages will be available throughout the weekend. The concession stand in Lakeside Park will offer the famous homemade brats from Bley’s Grocery in Jacksonport along with hot dogs, a corn roast, snacks and cold drinks. The Jacksonport Women’s Club food stand, also in Lakeside Park, will offer kolaches, funnel cake, cookies, pie, ice cream, popcorn and beverages. The Maifest co-ed softball tournament will be held at the town ballpark on County V, a block west of Lakeside Park. Games will begin on Saturday morning and run until a champion is crowned. Food and refreshments will be available at the ballpark throughout the tournament. On Sunday morning it’s time to lace up your running shoes for the 30th annual Maifest 10K (6.2 miles) and 2 mile fun run/walk. The race gets started at 9 AM in Lakeside Park and takes runners and walkers through the woods and out to Clarks Lake and back on scenic Lakeshore Road and Cave Point Drive. Race registration can be done ahead of time by filling out a race entry form or by registering Sunday morning from 7-8:30 AM at the concession stand in Lakeside Park. The Frontier Farmers Horse Pull is an extremely popular activity at Maifest and will take place at the ballpark on County V, one block from Lakeside Park, on Sunday afternoon. The festivities begin at 12 noon with the singing of the national anthem, followed by a 4-H Horse and Pony Drill Team performance and a special trick roping exhibition by Chewy, a local Door County resident known for his amazing cowboy rope tricks. The main event, the Frontier Farmers Horse Pull, will begin at 1 PM. Horse teams from around the Midwest will compete to see which team of 2 draft horses can pull the heaviest load in this classic match-up of horse power (literally!) and team cooperation. The 41st annual Maifest celebration is shaping up to be another fun family event. Come enjoy all that Jacksonport has to offer along the lakeshore this Memorial Day weekend. Maifest is sponsored by the Jacksonport Advancement Corporation (JAC), a non-profit organization working for the betterment of the community. Proceeds from Maifest have provided funds over the years for improvements at Lakeside Park, the town ballpark and the Jacksonport town hall building. Equipment has been purchased for the Jacksonport Fire Department and the Jacksonport First Responders. Sevastopol School has received funds to support extra-curricular activities such as Destination Imagination, the Senior Graduation Party, the Reading is Fun Program and sports programs. The JAC has supported the youth of Jacksonport over the years through the 4-H program, the Horse and Pony Project, the Little League and scholarships for those students continuing their education after high school. JAC also sponsors the community Christmas party held in December each year. Additional information about Maifest can be found at http://www.jacksonport.org/maifest/. Wed, 15 May 2013 12:32:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/jacksonport-prepares-for-41st-annual-maifest/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/small-forest-presents-an-evening-of-original-music-at-lost-moth-/ On May 18, 7 – 10 pm, Lost Moth Gallery of Egg Harbor presents Small Forest for an evening of music, visiting, wine and hors d'oeuvre. Small Forest, comprised of Jeanne Kuhns, Marybeth Mattson and Pat Palmer, will perform short sets of original progressive folk/rock music throughout the evening. Guests may also peruse paintings and cards, eat delicious treats and meet resident artist Kuhns (while she isn't singing) while enjoying the music. The gallery opens at 6:30 pm. Lost Moth Gallery is located at 7975 Highway 42 at the north end of Egg Harbor. For more information visit jeannekuhns.net or marybethmattson.com. Tue, 14 May 2013 16:03:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/small-forest-presents-an-evening-of-original-music-at-lost-moth-/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/steel-bridge-songfest-carries-on-tradition-of-featuring-young-so/ STURGEON BAY, WI (May 14, 2013) – Steel Bridge Songfest Partners with Interlochen Arts Academy and School of Rock Carrying On Tradition of Featuring and Mentoring Young Songwriters  - Sturgeon Bay, WI In addition to community outreach, historic preservation awareness and fostering an original music scene both locally and beyond, Steel Bridge Songfest carries on their tradition of mentorship welcoming young songwriters from all over the country to come and collaborate with life-long verterans of the written and sung word. This year, Steel Bridge Songfest 2013 is proud to announce two partnerships that will enable even more young songwriters to participate in the week-long “Construction Zone” songwriting and recording marathon; Interlochen Arts Academy and School of Rock (Chicago Chapter). So while other kids their age steal away into dark basements to play ‘Spin the Bottle’ for reasons one can only imagine and most parents shudder to think about, these kids will play the same game of chance for collaborative songwriting partners. Sister Bay native Lena Macdonald--who is well known in the area for her many successes, winning Door County Idol and Miss Door County Outstanding Teen in 2012.--applied to Interlochen School of Music last year and was immediately accepted into their songwriting program. While Lena is a two-time Steel Bridge participant (2011 & 2012), for classmate Kai Felsman--an aspiring songwriter and producer from Durham, NC--this will be a new experience. When asked what Kai was most excited about in regards to participating in this year’s event, Kai replied, “Working with writers from all around the country, all different age groups, I know I am coming out a better writer.” Also partnering with Steel Bridge Songfest 2013 is the Chicago chapter of the School of Rock. Currently under management by long-time Steel Bridge veteran Adam Mackintosh, two students were selected from the school to make the trip for the week-long immersement in collaborative songwriting. For Shiri Gross (16) and Haydee Irizarry (18), this kind of intensive will be an entirely new experience. While both girls are very experienced in performing professionally in a host of venues ranging from Buddy Guy’s, House of Blues, and Schuba’s, to festivals like Warped Tour and Lollapalooza, Shiri expressed a bit of excited trepidation, “I am a little bit nervous because I'm probably not as experienced or knowledgeable as some of the other people attending the songfest, but I am open minded and ready to bring what I have to the table (and) I can't wait to meet other people who love writing music just like I do.” Returning young artists Brittany Hallet, Tarl Knight, Caleb Navarro, Liam Hall, and Jake Troglen will participate again in the songwriting marathon while Talan Latz, Becca Richter, Stephanie Erin Brill (both young ladies received “Rising Star” nominations from the WAMI board),  the local 12-year old 3-piece band “The Solution” and  Eva Webber, are all slated to perform their original works during the 4-day festival. Many of these young songwriters will also be highlighted on Saturday June 15th at the “Young Songwriters Showcase” at Third Avenue Playhouse from 7-8:30pm. General admission passes are required for this event and can be purchased at the Third Avenue Playhouse box office, The Holiday Music Motel and TicketStar in Green Bay. For more information, please visit www.SteelBridgeSongfest.org Tue, 14 May 2013 15:38:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/steel-bridge-songfest-carries-on-tradition-of-featuring-young-so/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/still-time-to-register-for-door-county-festival-of-nature/ BAILEYS HARBOR, WI (May 14, 2013) – Memorial Day weekend is drawing close and that means it’s almost time for the Door County Festival of Nature. The premiere two-day event is a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to explore Door County’s natural beauty and diversity through over 40 field trips and programs conducted by expert field trip leaders on Friday and Saturday, May 24 & 25.. To kick off this year’s Festival, participants are invited to test their nature know-how at the first annual Nature Trivia Night on Thursday, May 23, 6:30 – 8:30 PM at the Baileys Harbor Town Hall. Participants will be quizzed on natural sights, sounds, places, observations, designations and histories. Form your own team (2-8 people) ahead of time or stop by the Town Hall and Festival leaders will find a team for you to join. Contact Marne Kaeske for more information – marne@ridgessanctuary.org or 920-839-2802. Vaccinations and passports are not required for Craig Thompson’s keynote presentation, “Knee Deep in Monkeys – Protecting Tropical Forests for Our Migratory Birds.” On Friday, May 24 at 7 PM, Thompson, a Wisconsin DNR land manager and a specialist in endangered resource protection, will take Festival participants to Costa Rica’s rugged Osa Peninsula to learn about a dynamic partnership forged to protect migratory birds. Home to jaguar, monkeys, and more than 400 bird species, the Osa is one of Latin America’s last great wilderness areas and considered a global conservation priority. More than half of the Upper Midwest’s nearly 300 species of breeding birds travel annually to Latin America's spectacular, diminishing forests to escape the rigors of our temperate winter. Most are experiencing long-term population declines due, in part, to the loss of their wintering homes in Central and South America. Protecting habitat here might make little difference if these "neotropical" birds don't have those crucial wintering sites.  The Festival concludes on the evening of Saturday, May, 25 with an old-fashioned Barn Dance. All dances are taught by a teacher/caller, and the figures build on each other from one dance to the next. No previous dance experience is needed. While there is still availability, field trips are filling fast as are spaces for the Local Land & Lake Picnic on the evening of the 24th. The picnic features a tempting menu of organically grown and locally sourced foods. Tickets for the picnic are $25 and can be purchased separately from field trip registration. Participants can register in advance at RidgesSanctuary.org/festival-of-nature or call 920-839-2802 to request a registration brochure by mail. Participants can also register for available field trips on the weekend of the event at the Baileys Harbor Town Hall on Thursday, May 23, between 5 and 8:30 PM.; Friday, May 24, from 8 AM – 1:30 PM and 5 – 9 PM; and Saturday, May 24, 8 – 9 AM. The 11th Annual Door County Festival of Nature is conducted by The Ridges Sanctuary in cooperation with The Nature Conservancy, Door County Land Trust, Crossroads at Big Creek and Wisconsin DNR. Proceeds from the two-day event support The Ridges Sanctuary’s programs of education, outreach and research. The 2013 Festival of Nature is sponsored by Ministry Door County Medical Center, Door County Distillery, Door Property Owners, Waseda Farms, Baylake Bank, Blacksmith Inn On the Shore, Cedar Beach House/Inn, Door Landscape and Nursery, Fish Creek Kite Company, Inge Alverson Bacon CAP, Journey’s End Motel & Cabins, Pheasant Park Resort, Pinkert Law Firm LLP, Staudenmaier Chiropractic Wellness Center and Thomas /Pfeifer Insurance Agency, Inc. Tue, 14 May 2013 15:23:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/still-time-to-register-for-door-county-festival-of-nature/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/the-ridges-adds-paddle-tours-to-guided-nature-experiences/ BAILEYS HARBOR, WI (May 14, 2013) – Spring in Door County means the reappearance of some of our most beautiful wildflowers, vegetation and birds – not to mention, open water! What better way to enjoy these springtime treasures than by taking a leisurely hike through the woodlands or a paddle trip with a seasoned naturalist as your expert guide? Guided nature hikes resume at The Ridges in May, with hikes scheduled at 1:30 PM on May 15, 17, 22, 29 & 31. Beginning June 4, guided hikes are available at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM, Tuesdays through Fridays, and 9:30 AM on Saturdays. All hikes begin at The Ridges Marshall Cabin and last approximately 90 minutes. There is a fee of $5 for Ridges members, $8 for the general public. There is no charge for children under 18. Naturalist Karen Newbern will lead a guided wildflower hike at The Ridges’ Logan Creek Property on May 18 at 1PM. The 90-minute hike will follow trails through upland deciduous forests, cedar swamps, and several natural communities in between. This area features a wide array of wildflowers, and many early spring species, such as hepatica, trout lily and trillium, should be in bloom. Meet at the parking lot at 5724 Loritz Road, just south of Jacksonport on Highway 57. Families are welcome. Cost is $5 for adults, no charge for children under 18. Preregistration is requested. Please call The Ridges Sanctuary at 920-839-2802 to register. Fans of our feathered friends can explore local birding hot spots during Discovery Bird Hikes, Saturdays at 7 AM, beginning May 11 and running through July 22. Those who prefer to rise at a more reasonable hour may enjoy our Not-So-Early Bird Hikes. Not-So Early Hikes will be held on May 11, June 1 and July 13 at 9 AM. Both Discovery and Not-So-Early Bird Hikes meet at the Marshall Cabin. These hikes are free for Ridges members, $5 for the general public. Water enthusiasts will be happy to hear that The Ridges is partnering with Lakeshore Adventures this season to offer guided eco-tours on Kangaroo Lake, Wednesday afternoons beginning June 15th. Paddle in glass bottom kayaks and view an assortment of waterfowl, aquatic vegetation, freshwater clams and turtles while learning about the conservation efforts within the watershed. Watch The Ridges website for details, RidgesSanctuary.org. For additional information on these and other program offerings, call 920-839-2802, or visit RidgesSanctuary.org. Tue, 14 May 2013 14:45:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/the-ridges-adds-paddle-tours-to-guided-nature-experiences/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/the-hardy-invites-the-public-to-create-art-for-the-6th-annual-co/ EPHRAIM, WI (May 3, 2013) - The Hardy Gallery in Ephraim recently announced preparations for the launch of the organization's 6th annual Community Mosaic Project. The Community Mosaic Project, presented in partnership with the Artists Guild in Sturgeon Bay, has - and continues - to bring together artists and community members to create a visual tapestry of public art at the Hardy's iconic facility in Ephraim. The project will be unveiled the evening of July 19, 2013 in which the contributions of 300-plus individuals will be on display.   The Hardy is currently seeking artists and community members to submit an original 6 by 6-inch work for this year's project.  The public is invited to submit work in any medium: drawing, painting, literary or sculptural.  Past submissions have included photography, three-dimensional and sculptural work, assemblages, fiber work, painting, drawing, writing, and collaborative works.  Free canvases for the project are available throughout the county at the Artists Guild (Sturgeon Bay) the Hardy Gallery office (Ephraim) and the Dahl Law Firm (Sister Bay).    "We are inviting the community to create, share and celebrate the visual arts," said Elizabeth Meissner-Gigstead, executive director. "This project has always been about telling the stories of the participants, our community," she says.  A statement from each participant accompanies each work of art.    To encourage the public's participation, two free community paint sessions are scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 9 from 1 - 3 PM and another again on Thursday, June 13 from 4:30 - 6 PM, both at the Artists Guild in Sturgeon Bay.  No previous experience is necessary and all supplies and canvases will be provided (one free canvas is available to each participant; additional canvases will be available to purchase). The sessions are free but advanced registration is required so we can ensure adequate space and supplies. Call the Hardy at 920.854.2210 to make your reservation.  The Artists Guild is located at 215 N. Third Ave., downtown Sturgeon Bay.   All artwork submissions are due no later than Monday, June 24.       "It's always exciting to see how everyone interprets the canvas differently and how, in the end, the very diverse submissions blend together so beautifully."  Gigstead continued.   The Community Mosaic Project was conceived in the spring of 2007 when the concept of a public art installation was envisioned by the non-profit organization.  The initial idea focused on building the work using ceramic tiles, which, for a variety of reasons presented many challenges for public participation of a large-scale work. Instead, the idea of using a blank canvas as a "tile" was born which would provide individuals with a true blank slate to manipulate as they wished. It was a huge hit and the project continues to grow today! Its impact has been great and extends far beyond our local Door County community. In recent years the project has garnered great success, inspiring teachers and arts organizations across the country to implement a similar project in their own community.  A sampling of these organizations include: A Benicia Patchwork of Art (Benicia, CA), Muscatine Mosaic Project (Muscatine, IA), Art Meets Heart (Green Bay, WI), the Compassion Project (Appleton, WI), Vision Mosaic Mural (Madison, WI), Small Works Project (Sheboygan, WI), Community Mosaic Project (Willison, North Dakota), Mosaic Fundraiser (Cedarburg, WI), Connections Project: A Mosaic of the Keys (Florida Keys, FL). Established in 1962, the HardyGallery is a non-profit art organization enriching the vibrancy of the Door County community by promoting and fostering local art. The organization supports initiatives that address the needs of the local artist community, the creative enrichment of local youth, the education of the public, and the promotion of the visual art and artists of the Door County Peninsula. Its efforts have benefited artists all skill levels as well as brought firsthand experiences in the arts to the youth of the peninsula. To make a tax-deductible gift visit http://www.thehardy.org. Mon, 06 May 2013 12:40:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/the-hardy-invites-the-public-to-create-art-for-the-6th-annual-co/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/life-is-sweet-for-non-profit-organizations-at-door-county-candy/ STURGEON BAY, WI (May 6, 2013) – Terry Ullman, proprietor of Door County Candy, located on Historic Third Avenue in Sturgeon Bay, has been using the slogan "Life is Sweet" for years now - but, his recent efforts are making it even sweeter.    Terry recently launched the spring portion of his second annual Door County Candy Charitable Choice Campaign and as of May 1, he's already achieved 15 out of the first 16 targeted donations to Door County non-profits.     The "Life is Sweet!" campaign will donate $100 to 32 non-profit organizations in Door County by the end of 2013. The annual campaign began last year when Terry recognized a countywide need and decided create a beneficial way to celebrate Door County Candy's Sweet 16-Year Anniversary.     The concept is simple: Anyone planning to donate $100 or more to a Door County non-profit will have that $100 contribution matched by another one from his Charitable Choice Campaign. He only asks for donors to take a photo of themselves or of something meaningful in Door County, with the slogan "Life is Sweet!" in the photo. Then, post, like and share that image with Door County Candy on the Door County Candy Facebook page.   Participants are asked to photocopy proof of their donation of $100 or more to a Door County non-profit and then drop it off in person, mail it to Door County Candy, or email it to terry@doorcountycandy.com. Upon receipt, Terry will add that Door County non-profit to the list of those due to receive a $100 Charitable Choice donation from him this year.    The fifteen Door County non-profits that have already been selected for spring, 2013 include: Birch Creek Music Performance Center, Relay for Life - Team DeMeuse, Volunteer Center of Door County, Community Clinic, Boys & Girls Club of Door County, Kimberley House, Neighbor to Neighbor Volunteer Caregivers, Door Kewaunee Business and Education Partnership, Door County Community Foundation, Crossroads at Big Creek, Door County Renaissance Fantasy Faire, WEP, Inc., Altrusa of Door County, Sturgeon Bay Skate Park Initiative and the Washington Island Recreation Center. To be on track for the campaign, Terry is looking for the sixteenth participant, a non-profit not yet chosen by the campaign to this year.    Terry says "This year we're looking to double last year's contribution for a total of $3,200 in 2013 when we do the second round of the Life is Sweet Charitable Choice Campaign this fall."    For additional details about the 2013 "Life is Sweet!" Charitable Choice campaign, visit Door County Candy's Facebook Page at: www.facebook.com/DoorCountyCandy and click on "Events," call 920.746.0924 or stop in talk with Terry at Door County Candy located on Historic Third Avenue - open daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm on the corner of Third and Michigan (under the red and white awning) in Sturgeon Bay. Mon, 06 May 2013 12:28:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/life-is-sweet-for-non-profit-organizations-at-door-county-candy/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/the-hardy-gallery-issues-call-for-art-for-51st-annual-juried-exh/ EPHRAIM, WI (May 1, 2013) - The Hardy Gallery has announced that the prospectus is now available for the 51st Annual Juried Exhibition, which is set to kick off the organization's 2013 summer season on Saturday, May 25.     The Hardy invites participation from both local and regional established and emerging visual artists for the annual exhibition.      "From its early beginnings, the Hardy has worked to introduce the public to local and regional artists, especially through the annual juried exhibit," said Elizabeth Meissner-Gigstead, executive director. "We look forward to showcasing another outstanding selection of work that recognizes emerging and established artists."   This year's five-member juror panel is comprised of artists Jack Anderson, a well known Door County watercolor artist. Jack resides in Northern Door County with his wife Sue. He has both a B.S. and M.S. degree in art education from Northern Illinois University and has completed additional advance work through several universities in the Midwest; Bonnie de Arteaga, who is a member of the Mainstreet Artworks co-op in Hilbert, WI, and works primarily in encaustics, printmaknig, and sculpture. She is currently an adjunct professor teaching introductory printmaking at St. Norbert College in De Pere, WI; Judi Ekholm, who is an accomplished impressionistic painter originally from near Louisville, Kentucky. She obtained her Master's Degree in art from Indiana University and currently resides in Fish Creek, WI where she exhibits her work at Edgewood Orchard Galleries and from her home at the Ekholm Gallery; Brian Pirman, who received his BA-Art in 1982 and his MFA-Art in 1992. Brian's work is informed by his background in Fine Art and Graphic Design. His process involves typography, design, photography and illustration. Pirman has a tendency to focus on formal elements which include form, pattern, texture, color and composition. His longtime interest in photography has been empowered with the addition of electronic tools to shape and manipulate imagery; and Kristi Roenning, who is a Door County artist and art educator. In 1992 she was named the Wisconsin Art Educator of the Year. Kristi served as instructor of art education at Lawrence University from 2000-2004 and continues to educate through retreats, workshops and lectures. Kristi makes art in her rural Sturgeon Bay studio and her paintings have been included in state and national exhibits and invitationals.   The exhibit, on display from June 8 - July 14, 2013, will feature work of two- and three-dimensional media as well as photography.  Delivery of artwork is scheduled for Friday, May 24 from 9AM - 5PM and Saturday, May 25 from 9AM - 3PM.  All submissions will be featured in the weeklong Wall-to-Wall Salon which opens to the public Saturday, May 25 with a reception from 5:30 - 7PM.  The public is invited and encouraged to vote for their favorite work for the popular People's Choice Award.     Complete entry details can be found in the prospectus, available at www.TheHardy.org, or direct download by clicking HERE.     Mon, 06 May 2013 12:19:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/the-hardy-gallery-issues-call-for-art-for-51st-annual-juried-exh/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/introducing-life-writing-turn-your-memories-into-memoirs-with-my/ EPHRAIM, WI (May 6, 2013) – Here's your chance to gain some free motivation and guidance. Now, is the time to begin to write all of those meaningful and cherished personal family stories, the ones you've been promising yourself to get down on paper for years.  Myrna Leigh Cohn presents an introduction to memoir-writing, a free 2-hour workshop on Thursday, May 23. She bases her class on the popular "Turning Memories into Memoirs" program written way back in 1988 by notable author and teacher Denis Ledoux. Since then, he has influenced tens of thousands of people around the world to apply his method, detailed in his book (by the same title) to preserve their memories through the power of the written word. Myrna has been applying his writing tips and techniques since then, and she has been coaching individuals and corporate business leaders to do the same.   The May 23 introductory session will begin at 1 pm, taking place in Ephraim at the UU Fellowship. It will focus on the essential core methods of creating a writing plan, utilizing a "memory list," and writing a brief life-story. No prior writing experience is required. Plan to bring a notebook and your favorite pen. You may surprise yourself and furthermore surprise your family and friends with what you create as you work under Myrna Cohn's directives in employing the "Turning Memories" method.   This workshop is free and open to the public; however, advance registration is required by May 19. To register, contact the UUFDC office at 920.854.7559.   For more information about Denis Ledoux and his organization, visit his Website: www.thememoirnetwork.com and "Like" the Soleil Lifestory Network on Facebook. Mon, 06 May 2013 11:59:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/introducing-life-writing-turn-your-memories-into-memoirs-with-my/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/dcal-gallery-features-sweeney-and-strublic-artists-of-the-week/ FISH CREEK, WI (June 7, 2012) – The Door County Art League (DCAL) Gallery, Fish Creek, is spotlighting the artwork of Barbara Sweeney and Anthony Strublic, artists of the week, June 17-24. Barbara Sweeney loves to express the colors of Door County’s rural landscapes in her watercolor paintings. Her favorite subjects range from boats and barns to water and woods….and cows and chickens, too. She has studied with Ed Fenendael, Baileys Harbor, and Thea Kovac, Milwaukee. In addition to original watercolors, Sweeney is offering note cards at the DCAL Gallery. She lives in Sturgeon Bay. Anthony Strublic creates detailed black and white drawings of Great Lakes freighters. He resides in Marinette. Located at the Top of the Hill Shops off Hwy. 42, the DCAL Gallery is open daily, 10 a.m.—5 p.m. Featuring the work of 30 artists, the DCAL Gallery is a co-op, staffed by friendly, working artists. Visitors are encouraged to stop by and browse. Mon, 11 Jun 2012 11:43:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/dcal-gallery-features-sweeney-and-strublic-artists-of-the-week/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/second-annual-sturgeon-bay-maritime-week/ STURGEON BAY, WI (July 23, 2012) – Building on the success of last year’s inaugural celebration, Sturgeon Bay will once again honor its rich maritime heritage with a diverse collection of entertaining and fun events from July 26 to August 5. Officially titled “Sturgeon Bay Maritime Week: A Salute to the U.S. Coast Guard”, the celebration includes many long-standing annual waterfront events along with new and exciting activities. In addition to focusing on Sturgeon Bay’s extraordinary maritime history, the week honors the area’s local Coast Guard personnel, past and present, for their service and many contributions to the community. Maritime Week kicks-off with the Sail Thru the Avenues Side Walk Sale on Thursday, July 26. A Sturgeon Bay tradition for both residents and visitors, this is THE Sidewalk Sale to attend. The sale stretches throughout Sturgeon Bay’s historic downtown encompassing Madison Avenue and Jefferson Street on both sides of the bay. Visit the Sturgeon Bay Visitor Center website at www.sturgeonbay.net. Registration for the Sturgeon Bay Maritime Regatta begins on Friday, July 27. New to the Maritime Week festivities in 2012, this rowing competition is hosted by the Sturgeon Bay Rowing Club and will bring rowing teams from around the country to test their skills and athletic prowess on the waters of Sturgeon Bay. The Maritime Regatta takes place from 7:30 to 4:00 on Saturday, July 28. The course will parallel the waterfront along Memorial Drive. Visit the Sturgeon Bay Rowing Club website at www.sbrow.com. The Maritime Week continues on Saturday July 28 with a picnic at Sunset Park for all active, former and retired Coast Guard personnel and their families. The picnic is hosted by the city’s Coast Guard Committee and sponsored by local veteran groups, merchants and businesses. All Coast Guard personnel, past and present, and their families are invited and encouraged to attend. Saturday, July 28 is also the date for the third annual Mariner Award Dinner at the Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club. Initiated in 2010 by the Door County Maritime Museum and Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club, the Mariner Award recognizes individuals, both living and deceased, who’ve had a significant, positive and lasting impact on the Door County maritime community. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. The dinner will also honor the local Coast Guard Person of the Year. Contact the Maritime Museum at (920) 743-5958 to make reservation for this very special event. On Tuesday, July 31, another new event makes its Maritime Week debut. The Family Centers of Door County in partnership with Thrivent Financial and the Maritime Museum are sponsoring the Family Maritime Parade. Groups, families and children are encouraged to create a float, decorate a bike or just have fun walking the short parade route. Any costume or decoration in a nautical or pirate theme is appropriate. There is no cost. Parade lineup starts at 4:30 pm at the Sawyer Park with the parade beginning at 5:30. Fun crafts, games and refreshments available at the Maritime Museum following the parade. To register, call (920) 856-1651or visit the Family Center website at www.familycentersdc.com. The Harmony by the Bay Summer Concert Series continues the Maritime Week festivities on Wednesday, August 1st. The Peninsula Symphonic Community Band will entertain with a patriotic musical tribute. This free concert kicks off at 7:00 p.m. in Martin Park. The Coast Guard Day Golf Tournament highlights festival activities on Thursday, August 2. This public golf event celebrates the Coast Guard’s birthday with a fun four-person scramble format at the Idlewild Golf Course. Cost is $65 per player and includes cart and lunch along with a host prices and special events. Contact the Maritime Museum for an entry form and additional details. Other Thursday activities include the “TGIT” Sail Racing and dinner buffet at the Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club that evening. The first of three late afternoon cruise opportunities aboard the tall-ship Denis Sullivan highlights activities on Friday, August 3. Forty-five lucky passengers will board the Sullivan Friday or Saturday afternoon at 4:00 p.m. or Sunday at 2:00 p.m. to set sail beneath her towering masts for a three-hour cruise down the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal and out into Lake Michigan. Contact the Maritime Museum at (920) 743-5958 for details and reservations.  The weekend is literally packed with maritime activities on Sturgeon Bay’s working waterfront. Saturday, August 4, opens with the first day of the Door County Classic and Wooden Boat Festival on the grounds of the Door County Maritime Museum and concludes with a host of “Evening on the Bay” events at the Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club. The opportunity to walk the decks of the tall-ship Denis Sullivan highlights this year’s Boat Festival. The always popular Sikaflex Challenge boat building completion returns along with a remarkable assortment of classic and wooden power, sail, and rowing vessels. The popular “Paint the Bay” plein air painting event, the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s robot boat “Coastie”, and the Museum’s new “Pirates – Ship to Shore” exhibit is sure to make this year’s festival a delight for children of all ages. Visit the Maritime Museum website www.dcmm.org for details. Also on Saturday August 4, the “Shadows of Our Maritime History” exhibit opens to the public in Sturgeon Bay City Hall. Created by local businesses, organizations and individuals, this extraordinary collection of 19 large shadowboxes spotlight the City’s rich maritime heritage. City Hall will be open from 8:30 to 12:00 that day. Evening on the Bay events at the Yacht Club include a dinghy “poker run”, kid’s games, live music and the annual “Venetian Night” boat parade followed by fireworks. All events are open to the public. The boat parade will feature vessels from the Coast Guard and Sturgeon Bay Police & Fire Departments. The Yacht Club is actively seeking mariners interested in decorating and entering a boat in this fun parade. Contact the Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club at (920) 743-6934 for details on all the “Evening on the Bay” events. Maritime Week wraps up on Sunday with the second day of the Classic and Wooden Boat Festival. The day’s activities are traditionally highlighted by “sea trials” of the often wild and wacky boats constructed by the Sikaflex Challenge teams. Tickets for the event cover both days and include admission to the Maritime Museum, deck tours of the tall-ship Denis Sullivan and immaculately restored tug John Purves as well as all Boat Festival activities. Media contact: Robert Desh, Executive Director; 920-743-5958; rdesh@dcmm.org Mon, 23 Jul 2012 13:39:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/second-annual-sturgeon-bay-maritime-week/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/pudge-degraff-works-sought-by-maritime-museum/ STURGEON BAY, WI (May 3, 2013) – The Door County Maritime Museum is seeking maritime-themed works from Edward “Pudge” DeGraff for an upcoming exhibit dedicated to the popular Door County carver at the Sturgeon Bay museum. The much beloved Door County artist’s distinctive works have become a collectors’ item, especially those with a maritime theme. “His whimsical wooden characters delighted the world until his passing in 1997.  Each carving was unique, and came to life at the hands of his wife Mary who hand-painted every figurine,” said Museum Executive Director Bob Desh. “We are seeking individuals willing to loan their treasured nautical-themed DeGraff carvings to us for the exhibit.  We promise to take loving care of them!” Contact the museum at (920) 743-5958 to request an information form. Fri, 03 May 2013 14:54:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/pudge-degraff-works-sought-by-maritime-museum/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/chicago-sings-and-dances-its-way-onto-the-peninsula-players-stag/ FISH CREEK, WI (July 23, 2012) – Broadway’s Tony Award-winning, razzle-dazzle hit musical “Chicago” makes its professional Door County debut with Peninsula Players Theatre July 25 through August 12. Since 1935, Peninsula Players has been entertaining and delighting Door County audiences in Fish Creek, Wisconsin. This is the first time America’s oldest professional resident summer theater is mounting the electrifying musical with book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb and based on the play “Chicago” by Maurine Dallas Watkins. “Chicago” is celebrating its 16th glorious year of girls, guns and glitz on the Great White Way. The musical is set in Prohibition-era Chicago, where jazz-filled speakeasys flourished, where flappers stretched the rules and morals of the times, and criminals caught the attention of the general public. “Chicago” features Roxie Hart, a bored housewife with a dream of making it big. Roxie shoots her lover after he threatens to leave her, then pleads her innocence to her blindly devoted husband, who initially takes the blame for her. Roxie competes for media attention of her case with Velma Kelly, a vaudeville singer accused of murdering her husband and sister, whom she caught being overly friendly with each other. Desperate to avoid conviction both ladies hire the services of the cities slickest lawyer to spin the situation, facts and headlines. “Chicago” is the winner of six Tony Awards in 1997 including Best Musical Revival and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Cast Recording featuring such songs as “All That Jazz,” “Razzle, Dazzle,” “Mister Cellophane,” “If You’re Good to Mama” and more. Greg Vinkler, Peninsula Players Artistic Director, directs with choreography by Linda Fortunato and musical direction by Margaret James. James and Fortunato last collaborated in the Player’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors” in which Vinkler played Mushnick and Vinkler and Fortunato collaborated on the 2010 musical production of “A Little Night Music.” Jennifer Knox and Ericka Mac make their Players debut as Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly. Mac’s regional stage credits include “Showboat” at Lyric Opera of Chicago, “Sweet Charity” and “West Side Story” at Drury Lane Oakbrook and “Man of LaMancha” at Theatre at the Center. Knox was recently seen in “Disaster” in New York, “Spring Alive” and “Only Make Believe Benefit” at the Shubert Theatre, and “Showboat” at the Goodspeed Opera House. Sean Fortunato is cast as the smooth-talking, flamboyant lawyer, Billy Flynn. Fortunato recently played the title character in the Players’ production of “The Nerd.” His other Players’ credits include “A Little Night Music,” “Cabaret” and “Little Shop of Horrors.” Fortunato’s regional credits include “Willy Wonka” with Chicago Shakespeare and “Curtains” with Drury Lane-Oakbrook. Paul Slade Smith plays the hapless Amos Hart, who is blindly devoted to his cheating wife. Smith played opposite Fortunato in “The Nerd” and recently ended a seven-year run with the national touring production of “Wicked,” appearing as Dr. Dillamond. He was also in the national tour of “The Phantom of the Opera.” Additional cast members include Players’ veterans Tim Monsion, Tom Mula, Angie Stemberg, and Karen Janes Woditsch. Other newcomers to the Players’ stage include Adam Estes, Gary Carlson, Rebecca Finnegan, Monique Haley, Callie Johnson, Christina Myers, Travis Porchia, Will Skrip and Lucy Zukaitis. All performers have various stage credits at regional theater venues such as Skylight Opera, The Goodman Theatre, Writers’ Theatre, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Madison Repertory Theatre, Boston's Huntington Theatre, Arkansas Rep, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Drury Lane Oakbrook, Marriott Lincolnshire, Pheasant Run, Royal George, Theatre at the Center and The Music Theatre Company. The design team for “Chicago” includes award-winning designers James Maronek, scenic designer; Kärin Simonson Kopischke, costume designer; Charlie Cooper, lighting designer; Josh Horvath, sound designer; Sarah E. Ross, properties designer. Maronek and Kopischke were a part of the design team of the Players 2010 musical, “A Little Night Music.” Prior to performances, Players patrons picnic and relax on the grounds while watching the setting sun over the waters of Green Bay from the cedar-lined shore and enjoy the ambience of the beer garden and other gardens. Peninsula Players is a member of Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers, and employs professional actors for all of its productions. Peninsula Players performs Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7:30 p.m. except for a 4 p.m. matinee August 12. Individual ticket prices to “Chicago” range from $36 to $42; discount tickets are available for groups of 15 or more. Individual tickets are also available. There are no performances on Mondays. For more information or to reserve tickets, phone the Peninsula Players box office at 920-868-3287 or visit the website at www.peninsulaplayers.com. Mon, 23 Jul 2012 13:09:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/chicago-sings-and-dances-its-way-onto-the-peninsula-players-stag/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/jackson-browne-returns-to-steel-bridge-songfest-sunday-june-16th/ STURGEON BAY, WI (May 3, 2013) – Confirmed to return to Steel Bridge Songfest 2013 on Sunday June 16th is longtime Steel Bridge devotee and Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Jackson Browne. Having performed at the very first Steel Bridge Songfest in 2005, Browne returned every year through 2008. Since then, Browne has kept a rigorous worldwide touring schedule which also included two intimate house concerts at The Holiday Music Motel in 2010 and 2011. Browne’s performance on June 16th will take place in the parking lot of The Holiday Music Motel as part of the Steel Bridge festivities from 1pm-7pm which also includes performances by a host of acts primarily involved in the Construction Zone (the week long songwriting/recording marathon preceding the weekend performances). Construction Zone 2013 will be the biggest yet, with over seventy (70) songwriters attending. General admission passes are required for Sunday’s outdoor performances at The Holiday (passes are not required for Saturday’s performances. Saturday’s performances are free and open to the public). In case of rain, the concert will be moved to the Third Avenue Playhouse (TAP). Due to the limited seating of this venue, a special “rain insurance pass” is required to guarantee admission to the theater. If you have already purchased a general admission weekend pass and wish to upgrade to the “rain insurance pass,” you may do so by stopping by The Holiday Music Motel or by calling TicketStar at (920) 494-3401. The general admission weekend pass will need to be returned in order for the rain insurance pass to be issued. There are only 250 passes available. Further clarification about the rain insurance pass is best told in the words of pat mAcdonald, co-founder, Creative Director and event organizer: “Weather permitting, Jackson Browne and his band will perform in the Holiday Motel parking lot on Sunday June 16th. In case of rain - and ONLY if it rains - all performances, including Jackson's, will be moved to the Third Avenue Playhouse. While this theater is our largest indoor venue, it only seats 250 people, so entrance will obviously be limited. That’s why we’re offering a special "Rain Pass" to go with your general weekend pass that guarantees inside seating. These will go to the first 250 who sign up. If you're as optimistic as we are about the weather, then please, DON'T BUY THIS PASS! SAVE THE EXTRA $25! But if you need absolute assurance, rain or shine, that you won’t miss anything - or if you'd just like to invest in the possibility of seeing Jackson Browne with his band and all the Steel Bridge artists in a cool little theater, then pay the extra $25 and rest easy. Only 250 Rain Passes will be sold. When they're gone, the offer will disappear.”   General Admission Weekend Passes will not be required for the outdoor daytime performances on Saturday June 15th at The Holiday Music Motel, but in the event of rain, Saturday’s festivities will also move to TAP where General Weekend Passes will be required. Rain Insurance Passes are only required to gain entry to Third Avenue Playhouse on Sunday June 16th in case of rain. Steel Bridge organizer and Artist Liaison melaniejane notes, “Jackson has always been a huge help, but we’ve been thrilled to find that ticket sales are not solely driven by any one artist. Most of the people buying tickets are long-time devoted fans of the entire festival. Of course they’re wanting to see Jackson, too, and many have bought the rain insurance passes for that reason, but the fact that they are coming with the same spirit as in years past is a wonderful sign that the festival’s on the right track. It’s always been about discovering new original music.” The rain insurance pass was added after the general admission weekend passes had already been made available when Steel Bridge organizers realized that the rain venue’s limited capacity could create major issues. “Of course, we wish we’d had this in place when the general admission passes were launched; As we’ve always had great weather in the past, it was more an afterthought. We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience this may have caused,” says Eric Leyendecker, SBSF organizer and event director, “but if it rains on Sunday, at least we know we’ll have 250 very happy people.” For the latest news and announcements, go to www.facebook.com/SteelBridgeSongfest or visit www.SteelBridgeSongfest.org. Fri, 03 May 2013 14:44:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/jackson-browne-returns-to-steel-bridge-songfest-sunday-june-16th/ http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/goat-cam/ CHECK IN ON “AL’S GOATS” FROM ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD…ONLINE! Fri, 15 Jul 2011 17:22:00 EDT http://doorcountytoday.com/news/news-releases/goat-cam/