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Book Barnaby Jones of Wisconsin CAPS for a speaker showcase

11/15/2023

 
CAPS logohttps://www.wisconsincaps.com
Consider booking Barnaby Jones for a speaker showcase at your library any Friday, Saturday, or Sunday in 2024.
 
Barnaby is a cryptozoologist, paranormal researcher, author, narrator, speaker, podcast host for "Monsters on the Edge" and "Whispers from the Dark," and founder/lead investigator of Wisconsin CAPS (Cryptids, Anomalies, and the Paranormal Society).
 
Barnaby, in collaboration with Barb and Craig Sulk, will be releasing the book Bigfoot is Hyden: The Incredible True Story of Strange Activities in Michigan's Upper Peninsula on January 1, 2024. This book will be available for purchase at the speaker showcase.

You can find more information about Barnaby and CAPS at www.wisconsincaps.com.​

Speaker showcase presentations

Available presentations for his speaker showcase include: 
  • What is a Cryptid? (Cryptozoology 101) ~ About 1 Hour
    An interactive look at cryptids & cryptozoology including a discussion on cryptozoology's definition and background, cryptids whose existence has been proven, extinct animals, and animals that have yet to be classified by science. 
  • Bigfoot Evidence: Public Property Vs. Private Land ~ About 1 Hour
    Examining audio and visual evidence gathered by the CAPS team on public and private properties, we explore the question: "If this evidence was left by a person, how come it can be seen where people aren't going?" 
  • Debunking the Paranormal at Gainor's Tavern ~ About 1 Hour
    Built in 1877 by Michael Gainor, this historical building has been a general store, blacksmith shop, tavern, post office, dance hall, and bar throughout its many years of existence. Stories of paranormal activity in the building are abundant, but how can we tell which ones are true or false?

    ​Join us for this historical and fun presentation showcasing audio and visual evidence of paranormal activity caught in the building and how CAPS did their research into finding the truth behind these stories!

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Solar eclipse programming for libraries

10/10/2023

 
illustration of a blue seal wearing orange glasses
(Source: dpi.wi.gov/wilibrariesforeveryone/solar-eclipse-programming-libraries)
Solar science resources are available from the Wisconsin Department for Public Instruction for local libraries looking to host activities coinciding with the upcoming solar eclipses. Public libraries can serve as centers for eclipse education and viewing for their communities during the annular solar eclipse in October 2023 and the total solar eclipse in April 2024, while state agencies, like the DPI, will be the backbone for supporting their libraries by circulating the solar science programming kits.

The solar science kits are a “program in a box,” featuring books Moonbear’s Shadow by Frank Asch and When the Sun Goes Dark by Andrew Fraknoi and Dennis Schatz, interactive activities, and solar viewing instruments including a solar telescope, a SunSpotter, and Sunoculars. They also include printed materials aimed at helping public library staff feel more comfortable when talking about these exciting celestial events. There are two kits geared for a multigenerational audience, and two kits for a younger audience.
SEAL workshop attendees testing binoculars in Eau Claire
The solar kits, along with two in-person training workshops held in September 2023 for library staff throughout Wisconsin, were made possible by funding from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and a supplement to the NASA@My Library project,the Space Science Institute, through its Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries (SEAL).

To reserve a kit for a program at your library, please submit a SEAL KIT Reservation request. The kits are available statewide starting the week of October 20th, 2023. A description of the contents of each kit is also available. 

For programming ideas and other resources, visit Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries (SEAL).
​

Please email Jeni Schomber, Public Library Consultant, if you have any questions.

Library performances by Stuart Stott, musician, storyteller & author

10/4/2023

 
Stuart Stotts is sitting on a big rock in a wooded area. He's giving high-five's to the young children sitting in front of him.
Stuart Stotts is a musician, storyteller, and author. He lives in LaFarge, Wisconsin, although for many years he lived in the Madison area.

Stuart is offering programs for libraries, as he has since 1984. He has performed at hundreds of summer reading library concerts and other family events. Stuart also presented often about Lutie Stearns and the Traveling Libraries of Wisconsin, about whom he wrote a book several years ago.
The presentation is for adults, often for Friends of the Library groups, who are generally made up of passionate advocates for libraries and books, as Lutie was.

If you are interested in a performance of any kind, please let Stuart know. His website is StuartStotts.com and he's happy to provide references. If you are interested in a summer reading event, Stuart often finds it’s a lot more affordable if libraries work together to combine bookings.

"Thanks for your work. It’s not an easy time for many librarians, but I, and many others, believe you play an essential role in our society." - Stuart Stotts

Stuart Stotts
stuart.stotts@gmail.com
608-513-0724
www.StuartStotts.com

Call for Visual Art and Poetry from Individuals with Disabilities

9/19/2023

 
Arts for ALL Wisconsin logo
ARTS for ALL Wisconsin is thrilled to announce the 2024 ARTS for ALL Wisconsin CREATIVE POWER Calls for Visual Art and Poetry! These unique opportunities for children and adults with disabilities to showcase their skill and talent will open for submissions on October 31 and close on February 14, 2024.

ARTS for ALL Wisconsin celebrates the diverse perspectives of our community every year with its Call for Art and Call for Poetry.


Submissions are juried by arts professionals, who will select CREATIVE POWER Award-winning submissions. Winning visual art submissions become part of the CREATIVE POWER Collection and tour the state for three years. Recent showings of the Collection have been La Crosse, Kenosha, Racine, Madison, and Milwaukee. Award-winning poetry will be featured in Arts for ALL Wisconsin's first edition of CREATIVE POWER Poetry to be published in 2024.

The calls are free to enter, and open to any current Wisconsin resident over the age of 5 that identifies as having a disability. Both calls can be entered simultaneously.

Submission Details:
  • Opening Date: October 31, 2023
  • Closing Date: February 14, 2024
  • Award Celebration: May 4, 2024 at Madison Youth Arts Center (MYArts)
  • Who Can Submit: Individuals ages five and up who identify as having a disability.
  • Visual Art Submission Guidelines: Submit images of up to two works of art using the online entry form found at www.artsforallwi.org/programs/call-for-art
  • Poetry Submission Guidelines: Submit up to two poems using the online entry form found at www.artsforallwi.org/programs/call-for-poetry
  • Complete Guidelines and instructions can be found at the links above
  • Winning Entries Announced: April 10, 2024
ARTS for ALL Wisconsin is a statewide nonprofit organization founded in 1985 and formerly known as VSA Wisconsin. Its mission is to expand the capabilities, confidence, and quality of life for children and adults with disabilities by providing programs in the arts.

There are flyers for both the Call for Art and Call for Poetry available on their website and linked here too – please feel free to share them electronically or by printing and sharing hard copies.

For inquiries or assistance, please contact Mike Lawler at mike@artsforallwi.org or 608-241-2131. Let's celebrate the power of art and poetry within our diverse community!

"Tailspin" by John Armbruster, Wisconsin author

8/7/2023

 
Tailspin book cover showing a plane going down in a foggy wooded area
"My name is John Armbruster, author of Tailspin.

I’m scheduling library presentations for this fall and winter for my narrative nonfiction book Tailspin: the story of a World War II bomber plane tail gunner who was shot down and fell four miles without a parachute and lived. His name was Gene Moran of Soldiers Grove, Wisconsin.

Tailspin was released in 2022 by Ten16 Press, and response to this story has been overwhelming, including:
  • 10,000 in sales in its first year
  • American Writing Awards 2022 Book of the Year-Nonfiction
  • IBPA Ben Franklin Award Winner for Best New Voice-Nonfiction
Since its release, I’ve spoken about Tailspin at more than sixty events including forty libraries.

'Gene Moran’s story is, to put it mildly, amazing and John Armbruster’s presentation drew a crowd that was standing room only, which is rare in our tiny town! The presentation includes photos not included in the book, and Mr. Armbruster relates his experience recording Gene’s story so well. I would whole-heartedly recommend you include John Armbruster in your programming lineup.' - Amanda Hegge, Director, Whitehall Public Library

My presentations are an hour long and include video, audio, slides, readings and a display of banners and artifacts. I will also sell and sign books for as long as needed after the presentation.

The fee for my presentation is $400. I’ve already spoken at the following places in your Nicolet system area:
  • Brown County Fair
  • Lion's Mouth Bookstore (Aug. 5)

For more information on Tailspin, please read the (attached) sell sheet.
​
Thank you.
John Armbruster
john.armbruster23@gmail.com
608-632-4876
--
Author of Tailspin
order at http://ten16press.com/shop
Website: johnmarmbruster.com
Instagram: @tailspin_genemoran
Facebook: John Armbruster"
portrait of John Armbruster
John Armbruster, Author

Summer gardening activities and videos from Melinda Myers

7/28/2023

 
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Updated July 28, 2023:

Gardening expert Melinda Myers has shared her August gardening activities to her website for you to use with your library patrons.

Click the following link, and scroll all the way down to the August video and activity. It can all be accessed at https://www.melindamyers.com/articles/grow-budget-wise-beautiful-gardens-anywhere-2023-library-garden-program.

​
August 2023 - Video & DIY Project:  Worm Composting – Convert kitchen scraps into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. 

Posted June 1, 2023:

Gardening expert Melinda Myers has uploaded her June and July gardening activities below to her webpage for you to use with your library patrons:
  • June 2023 - Grow a Tomato in a Pot Video & Downloadable DIY Project - Tomato Growing Tips for Success
  • July 2023 – Go on a Bug Hunt Video & Downloadable Backyard Journal - Learn more about the good guys in your garden and neighborhood.

Here are just a few ways to use the content from Melinda:
  • Offer program-themed story times and distribute the related materials.
  • Create book lists related to the program topics.
  • Play the videos and have patrons work on the related DIY activities at the library.
  • Incorporate the content into your summer reading program (and other library programs) and have books about the programming topics count toward incentives/prizes.
  • Share projects for adults and/or kids to do at home, where appropriate.
  • Set up displays that include program-related books, book lists, educational materials, and the program sign with QR code for patrons to register for free webinars and access Videos and DIY projects.
  • Create take-and-make kits related to the DIY project(s).
  • Include a link on the library website to the program web page where all program content will be housed (how-to videos, DIY project materials, webinar registration links, and downloadable materials).
  • Promote projects and activities to patrons on the library’s website, social media platforms, and traditional media leading up to and throughout the campaign.

Also, your library can access all promotional materials, signage, press release templates, social media posts and images for this content at https://www.melindamyers.com/articles/electronic-press-kit.

If you have any questions, email Diana Paul at diana@melindamyers.com.

Libraries Build Business Communications Toolkit

6/15/2023

 
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The Libraries Build Business Communications Toolkit offers advice and materials for library workers to promote their small business support services, engage with policymakers and government officials, and form and strengthen ties with local businesses and existing entrepreneur support structures.

The toolkit was created by the American Library Association’s Public Policy & Advocacy office (PPA), in partnership with Audrey Barbakoff from Co/lab Capacity, to help library workers communicate the value of and grow their small business services.

Beanstack access renewed for school & public libraries through April 2025

4/19/2023

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Beanstack logo
"The Library Services Team at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) announced on April 18, 2023, a contract with the reading engagement platform Beanstack through April 2025. The agreement with Zoobean, Inc. provides new and continued access to Beanstack for all interested Wisconsin public libraries and public school libraries.

This program is being offered through the DPI with funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant. Over the next two years, the DPI will continue welcoming feedback from the field to ensure the product is meeting Wisconsin libraries’ needs."

Learn more at https://dpi.wi.gov/wilibrariesforeveryone/beanstack-access-renewed-through-april-2025.

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Grow Budget-Wise, Beautiful Gardens Anywhere

3/30/2023

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Free Gardening Webinars, DIY Projects, and Activities for Wisconsin Public Libraries to use April – Sept. 2023

Melinda Myers logo
We Energies logo

Content and Promotional Materials now Available!

Melinda Myers is smiling while trimming a plant with garden shears
​Following are updates on the “Grow Budget-Wise, Beautiful Gardens Anywhere” Program from garden expert Melinda Myers for Wisconsin Public Libraries to use from April – September.

​Here is the news release with details about the program for your review
. All the program content is free of charge thanks to underwriting sponsor We Energies.
​
  1. ​In the "Grow Budget-Wise, Beautiful Gardens Anywhere” program content for libraries, you’ll find information on the 3 Garden Webinars, 3 Videos, and Activities/DIY Projects (activities will be uploaded throughout the season; the April activity is available now). Consider hosting webinar watch parties at your library and/or events to do the DIY projects and activities. And feel free to use the content in any other creative way you come up with.
  2. Promotional Materials are available for patron promotion in the Electronic Press Kit. This press kit provides social media posts/photos, webinar graphics, website banners for your library website to link to the program web page, a poster for your displays or bulletin boards, a QR code linking to the program web page, a news release template, and more.

You can help this program to be a success! Please promote it in your community and to your patrons. Here are some ideas:
  • Add a banner or graphic to your website with a link to the program web page.
  • Tailor and share the news release (click to download template) with your local media.
  • Promote the programming via your social media channels (see social media post copy and images in the electronic press kit – access through link above in #2).
  • Create displays in your library with gardening books, a poster with a QR code that links to the program website.
  • Promote the events in your flyers, programs, and other marketing materials.
  • Encourage registrations for the webinars by sharing these Facebook events on your library’s Facebook page (simply click on the links below to share them on your library’s Facebook page):
    • April 18, 2023, 6:30 p.m. CT - Growing a Bountiful Harvest – Facebook event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/3382483008631715
    • ​May 3, 2023, 6:30 p.m. CT - Gardening in a Changing Climate - Facebook event link:  https://www.facebook.com/events/887499652506142
    • Sept. 13, 2023, 6:30 p.m. CT - Fall is for Planning and Planting an Energy-Saving Landscape - Facebook event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1276832873248072

If you have any questions, please email Diana Paul. ​


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50 States of Mind: A Journey to Rediscover American Democracy by Ryan Bernsten

3/28/2023

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The following is taken directly from an email from Ryan Bernsten to NFLS:
​"My name is Ryan Bernsten and I'm a Midwest-based writer. My upcoming book 50 States of Mind: A Journey to Rediscover American Democracy, which I wrote as a grad student at University of Oxford, is being released by the London-based publisher Bite-Sized Books on June 20th (US Hardcover) and March 28th in the UK. This book is a nonfiction account of my travels across all 50 states to meet people from different walks of life/political persuasions and is a modern take on Alexis de Tocqueville's Democracy in America. I grew up in Madison – I visited Racine, Marinette, Appleton, and Green Bay on my journey and would love to return to Wisconsin for an event with your library in 2023.

Here's some information about the book, a press release, and a press kit is (available below):


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Project Invitation: One Seed, One Wisconsin

1/3/2023

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Amended January 3, 2023

Per a follow-up communication from Tovah Anderson on January 3, 2023:

"It was brought to my attention that Wisconsin requires seed (re)labelers to be licensed and that seed libraries may fall under this requirement. I spoke with Greg Helmbrecht at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection. Greg responded: 'Several years ago, we evaluated the need to license “seed libraries” and decided it wasn’t something we needed to do as long as commerce wasn’t affected. This was an exemption to licensing but the idea was that there wasn’t “bulk” seed involved.
 
Jung is a licensed and reputable seed labeler and one that would be directly affected by your “give away”. I think that if they are aware of your plans and don’t have a problem with it, you shouldn’t need a license. Full disclosure with Jung is advised and they could probably do your labeling for you.'
 
Upon his suggestion, I reached out to Jung Seed to see if this project was okay. I shared with him how Prairie Lakes Library System was planning to run this project in our area. Brian Isaacs at Jung Seed responded: 'It was a pleasure speaking with you this morning.  When you are wanting to do this again, just let me know ahead of time and we can package them up for you and even add library information to the package.  For this round, Jung Seed does not have any issues with the way it was handled.'

It sounds like we have the go-ahead with the understanding that seed libraries are not meant to take business away from the seed sellers and that the planning committee will approach this project differently next year.

Each library is free to order their seeds from any seller they like. There is no formal “oversight" of this project so you can run your program as you like."

(Note: Tovah is interested in how many libraries think they will participate. As a courtesy, please email her at tanderson@prairielakes.info to let her know.)

"Hello All,

You are invited to bring this project to your library – One Seed, One Wisconsin is a loosely defined seed giveaway and programming project spearheaded by Kirsten Almo, director emeritus of Edgerton Public Library.

2023’s seed variety is the Wisconsin 55 Tomato, which has a fascinating history! Please use #1Seed1WI when promoting or posting about this project so everyone can see what the participants are up to!

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2023 UW Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic Plant Disease Talks

11/15/2022

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"​Greetings all!

I direct the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic.  In 2023, I will be providing free monthly Zoom presentations on a range of plant disease topics.  I thought your patrons might be interested in these free learning opportunities.  Attached is a PDF file that describes the talks (with brief descriptions), lists the days and times, and also provides information on how to register for the talks.  I have additional advertising materials (an 8.5 X 11 advertising poster for each talk), if these might be of interest to you.  

If you have questions, please let me know.  Thanks much for your consideration."

Brian Hudelson
Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Phone:  (608) 262-2863
E-mail:  hudelson@wisc.edu
Website:  https://pddc.wisc.edu
Follow on Facebook and Twitter @UWPDDC
PDF that describes the talks
Download PDF
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National Pollinators Month Programming for Public Libraries

5/4/2022

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Bumble bees on orange-flowered butterfly weedhttps://www.atcllc.com/learning-center/trees-and-vegetation/grow-smart/grow_smart-library/
5/4/2022 update from Kelly Bolter, Adult Programming Coordinator @ Milwaukee Public Library:

​We're counting down the days until Melinda Myers will be celebrating Pollinator Month with your libraries and patrons! She’ll be hosting 3 live webinars and 3 youth videos with corresponding DIY projects that can be done as part of library programming with kids, tweens and teens. These projects can also be accessed online for any families or households who would like to do this at home with take home kits.

Attached (below), you will find a DIY Project Supplies List created by Melinda. This could helpful for any libraries who plan on including them in a Summer Reading Program, and any take-and-make kits. Please note that step-by-step instructions for each of these DIY projects and the corresponding videos are being produced and will be available online by 5/16 on the program’s webpage, www.atc-GrowSmart.com/library. This page is currently under development.
 
I’ve also attach(ed) a refresher of the Pollinator Month program and content that will be provided to our libraries free of charge (see the attached June 2022 Pollinator Month Factsheet) and information so you can promote the 3 pollinator gardening webinars presented by Melinda to your patrons (see Pollinator Month 2022 Webinar Registration Info).
 
If you have any questions, please contact Diana Paul at diana@melindamyers.com.
 
Thank you for getting the word out about the importance of pollinators and ways we can help them! Please note the dates of the Pollinator Month Webinars are June 1, June 15, and June 22.

2022_kids_diy_project_supply_list_pollinator_month.pdf
File Size: 709 kb
File Type: pdf
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june_2022_pollinator_month_factsheet_atc_mmyers_final.pdf
File Size: 78 kb
File Type: pdf
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pollinator_month_2022_webinar_registration_info.docx
File Size: 15 kb
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Original post: 3/21/2022
​

June is National Pollinators Month. In an effort to raise awareness of the importance of pollinators and how everyone can help them, American Transmission Co. is teaming up with gardening expert and author Melinda Myers. Together, they will produce and provide libraries throughout Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan with educational programming and content for National Pollinators Month.

The content and programming will be made available to the libraries at no cost and the libraries may offer the programs and content to their patrons throughout the month of June.​.. 

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Lake Michigan Shipwrecks, Mysteries: Virtual Programs by Ross Richardson

1/25/2022

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The following program information comes from Michigan author Ross Richardson.
​
I’m scheduling virtual library programs (via Zoom) for the winter/spring season (February-May) of 2022.  Each live program has an hour-long runtime and is followed by an open Q&A session. These programs feature state of the art underwater video, as well as historical imagery, research and documentation.
​
​
I am an author of two books: The Search for the Westmoreland Shipwreck and Still Missing.

​I am also a Great Lakes shipwreck hunter and maritime historian. I have been involved in searching for and discovering dozens of shipwrecks and missing aircraft in the Great Lakes Region.  
​
My most popular programs are:
  • Seeking the LORD, the Search for the JARVIS LORD Shipwreck. Explore the JARVIS LORD shipwreck, a ship built in Michigan and then sank in Michigan waters in 1885 (see links below).  This program also touches on invasive species and other shipwreck discoveries and mysterious disappearance throughout the Great Lakes Region.
  • “Manitou Mysteries Shipwreck Adventure”. This program has it all: Missing persons, ghost stories, amazing imagery and the story behind the discovery of what people are saying is the most intact 1800s schooner shipwreck in the world, the W.C. KIMBALL, (see links below). Focusing on Lake Michigan, we will discuss invasive species, the effects of the current Great Lakes high water levels on shoreline shipwrecks and the fragile ecosystem of our Great Lakes. This program is an hour long and is sure to entertain and inform your patrons.

​Below are links to news stories concerning some of my discoveries.
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Weekend trip on Lake Michigan uncovers century-old shipwreck (Fox 6 Milwaukee)
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1885 shipwreck 'Jarvis Lord' discovered, identified in Lake Michigan (WZZM 13)
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Shipwreck hunter lives the dream (Traverse City Record Eagle)
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October Author Next Door Spotlight: Ross Richardson (National Writers Series)
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LOST AND FOUND: 1891 shipwreck 'amazingly intact' on Lake Michigan bottom (WZZM13)
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'I think it's a death car' | Mysterious 1960 Lincoln may have gruesome backstory (WZZM 13)

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"Blowing in the Wind" Concert by David HB Drake

1/13/2022

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Folksinger David HB Drake was there…

He played for Gaylord Nelson at the very first Earth Day in 1970, marched the streets of Madison in 1969 and has sung alongside Pete Seeger on the Clearwater. He remembers the era when folk music was shared across the country because he was there. “Blowing in the Wind” is a concert of those mighty times.

The classic music of David’s mentors - Peter, Paul and Mary; Pete Seeger; Tom Paxton; Phil Ochs; Bob Dylan; Woody Guthrie; Joni Mitchell; the Kingston Trio; John Denver and more echo down the years sung by someone who lived it and never stopped singing the songs.


David's program is presented with a PowerPoint panorama complete with sing-along slides and a history of the 60's folk era. 60 and 90 minute (full concert) and duo / trio versions are available!

For a wealth of information on David’s rainbow of performances for all ages, visit www.davidhbdrake.com and David HB Drake on YouTube.

Contact David at:
orgarts@gmail.com
414-702-6053

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Police Mental Health: Stop The Threat - Stop The Stigma

1/10/2022

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Law enforcement, fire, corrections, communications. It's OK to talk about your mental health. Don't suffer in silence. Stop the threat. Stop the Stigma.
My name is Adam A. Meyers and I have been a Police Officer in Wisconsin for 20 years. In April 2016, I was on duty when I used deadly force against someone who had armed themselves with a hatchet in a busy Department store in Chippewa County, Wisconsin. Please contact me if you would like me to speak about my experience.

​I have faced many personal and professional mental health challenges after my shooting and it has taken me about five years to get back on track. I would not be a police officer today without the unwavering support of my Family, Friends, Colleagues, complete Strangers, and Counselors.

​In December 2020 I established Stop The threat - Stop The Stigma to serve as a platform to promote Law Enforcement Wellness. My overall goal for establishing Stop The Threat - Stop The Stigma is to speak about my experience and to inspire other Law Enforcement Professionals to speak about their own mental health challenges.
​
​The issue of mental health is prominent everywhere and it is an issue that commands a new perspective. Without advocacy and awareness, we will continue to wait until the crisis stage to address mental health for Law Enforcement Professionals and by then it may be to late.

The Law Enforcement Culture tends to expect Law Enforcement Professionals to resist normal physiological responses to tragedies or critical incidents.  This combination creates the perfect storm when Law Enforcement Professionals are not provided with the tools to deal with effects of the profession.​​
Adam Meyers speaker at criminal justice & rehabilitation conference
Lake Hallie officer still affected by Walmart shooting incident | University of Wisconsin - Stout (uwstout.edu)
Link to news video
Story / Video by WEA News in Eau Claire, Wisconsin: Officer turns personal struggles into mission to help fellow first responders (weau.com)
Officer Adam Meyers wearing vest that says
Story by the Leader Telegram in Eau Claire, Wisconsin: Lake Hallie police officer confronts mental health stigma | Local News | leadertelegram.com (Photo by Parker Reed)
Please contact me if you would like me to speak about my experience.  You can learn more about Stop The Threat - Stop The Stigma at: http://www.stopthethreatstopthestigma.org 

​Let's work together to Stop The Threat - Stop The Stigma. Please share this (e-mail) with others. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Adam A. Meyers
13034 30th Avenue
Lake Hallie, Wisconsin 54729
Call/Text: (715) 869-3361
StopTheThreatStopTheStigma.org
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Wisconsin Author Rochelle Melander Releases New Book

11/3/2021

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Rochelle Melander is a writing coach and teaching artist. She is the founder of Dream Keepers, a writing workshop for young people in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and she teaches at libraries, local schools, and museums.
​
Rochelle's new book, Mightier Than the Sword: Rebels, Reformers, and Revolutionaries Who Changed the World through Writing (Beaming Books; July 27, 2021), is a middle grade social justice book pairing life changing writing exercises with the stories of a diverse group of people who changed lives and communities throughout history. The book features people from a variety of disciplines who used their words to educate people about the stars, advocate for women’s rights, end slavery, save the environment, protest injustice, and more. Sidebars explore types of writing, fun facts, and further resources.

Library directors: if you would like to review the eARC to take a look at this book, please contact Rochelle for a link.

​
She’s also written 11 books for adults, including two books to help people write: Write-A-Thon: Write Your Book in 26 Days (and Live to Tell About It) and Level Up: Quests to Master Mindset, Overcome Procrastination and Increase Productivity.

Rochelle is also available for author visits. 

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Chad Lewis: Author of the Strange and Unusual Offers Virtual Openings for Fall & Winter 2021

8/31/2021

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Speaker Bio
For nearly three decades Chad Lewis has traveled the back roads of the world in search of the strange and unusual. From tracking Vampires in Transylvania and searching for the elusive monster of Loch Ness to trailing the dangerous Tata Duende through remote villages of Belize and searching for ghosts in Ireland's castles, Chad has scoured the earth in search of the paranormal.
 
Chad has been featured on the Discovery Channel's A Haunting, William Shatner's Weird or What, ABC's World's Scariest Places, Monsters and Mysteries in America, along with being a frequent contributor to Ripley's Believe it or Not Radio. With a Master's Degree in Psychology, Chad has authored over 25 books on the supernatural and extensively lectures on his fascinating findings. The more the bizarre the legend is, the more likely you will find Chad there!

**Virtual Openings for Fall & Winter** 
                                            
"Due to the rise in Delta and winter driving conditions, many libraries have been asking for virtual options for their Fall & Winter programming. 

With this, in addition to my in-person programs I have converted all my presentations to include a virtual option through Zoom, Skype, Facebook Live, Blue Jeans, etc...... or even a pre-recorded version as well. 

Many libraries are even taping the live video to make it accessible through their websites for those who couldn't attend the live broadcast and a pre-recorded option is available as well. 

I have included all the info for you below---just let me know what you pick. 

It is great to know that even in these strange times people still crave storytelling.

Keep an eye out,
Chad Lewis
715-271-1831
www.chadlewisresearch.com"

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Fall 2021 Ghost Programs with Curt Strutz

8/2/2021

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An interactive paranormal presentation? Visiting the beyond.
Are you and your patrons still looking for that perfect paranormal/ghost program at the library this fall?  Something that would be educational, entertaining, and even infused with humor an fun (without being too deep into occult or questionable material)? My "Visiting the Beyond" paranormal program could be just the fit your library needs - and at a fair price!

My name is Curt Strutz, and I am a self-proclaimed "Paranormal Explorer." I tour and visit some of the country's most notorious haunted locations and experience them - with personal happenings, history, and original photography. I bring all of this original content to libraries and museums across the country - and already have a semi-full fall schedule at this point in time (with live and in-person lectures in WI, FL, IA, and AL already booked in 2021). 

My presentations are loved by those into the paranormal, but also are great for those into both history and photography.

​I am pleased to announce that I do have a handful of solid/great dates that can still be booked for this September and October that will work for WI libraries - given the fact I do reside right here in the state!  While the majority of the bottom half of October being booked, there are still quite a few solid dates open for the top half of the month. We could still make it happen for your library!

​I have been scheduling lectures on the paranormal for nearly 10 years - speaking at libraries all over the country, as well as museums, special events, and even some paranormal conferences down in Illinois a few years back. I was also a featured cast member of a nationally syndicated cable access TV show called "Paranormal Generation." This show aired on cable access channels across the country, from Lancaster, CA to Philadelphia, PA!  The show ran for two seasons/years, and all back episodes are still available to view on YouTube!

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Tails and Tales Summer Reading Program with David HB Drake

4/1/2021

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Folksinger and storyteller David HB Drake presents “Animal Faire” - a menagerie of songs for the whole family!

To celebrate the Summer 2021 Reading Program, “Tails and Tales”, David is “Going to the Zoo” to visit “My Rhinoceros” and go “Waltzing with Bears” at “The Animal Faire”. Magical beasts like “Puff the Magic Dragon” play with “Jennifer’s Rabbit” in songs performed on guitar, concertina, banjo, dulcimer, and Native American flute.

David HB Drake has been called “the real thing” – a musician and historian with 40 year of experience performing throughout the Midwest.

Contact Organic Arts at orgarts@gmail.com (preferred) or call 414-702-6053.

Libraries over 100 miles from Milwaukee – please be “green” and  try to work with other area libraries to schedule more than one show a day and/or on adjacent days to save travel costs.

Programs can be done outdoors or in large rooms if COVID restrictions are still in place. David also has programs for the community, Library Week, and Seniors year-round.

For a wealth of information on David’s rainbow of performances for all ages, visit www.davidhbdrake.com and David HB Drake on YouTube.
--
David HB Drake
Creative Director, Organic Arts Ltd.
414-702-6053 / orgarts@gmail.com

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Nancy Drew 90th Anniversary Celebration Exhibition

10/28/2020

 

The booking deadline is NOVEMBER 30, 2020.

Reservations are limited and access is being offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please complete the Booking Inquiry at nancydrewexhibition.com/index#booking-inquiry.
"Dear Nancy Drew Fan,
 
This year, Nancy Drew is celebrating 90 years of adventure, mysteries, and empowerment of generations of girls and young readers!
 
To honor her legacy, we are presenting an innovative, virtual streaming celebration, available exclusively to your library and museum members and supporters.

The celebration will stream to libraries and museums across the country from April 28, 2021 and continue through Mother’s Day, May 9, 2021."
Celebration Highlights
exclusive virtual streaming celebration
"The program will feature:
  • Interviews, commentary, and rare glimpses into the authors and evolution of the characters and stories
  • Celebrity contributions
  • Special streaming events ranging from quizzes to nostalgic recollections
  • Film and TV clips from Nancy Drew on the screen over the years
  • Curatorial insights into the beloved covers and illustrations
  • Discussions with fans and collectors of Nancy Drew books and memorabilia
  • Comments from authors, journalists and critics on the Nancy Drew phenomenon over the years
THE DEADLINE TO LOCK IN YOUR PARTICIPATION IS NOVEMBER 30TH, 2020. DON'T DELAY! 

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Abraham Lincoln by Kevin Wood: Virtual Visits Available

9/30/2020

 
The following information was provided to NFLS by Kevin Wood aka “Mr. Lincoln”:
"I am “Mr. Lincoln”, a professional first-person historical presenter of our nation’s 16th President based in the Chicago area, with a very strong resemblance to Mr. Lincoln and a very extensive knowledge of his life and times. 
​

This is to let you know that I now offer programs via various forms of virtual programming (in addition to old-fashioned in-person programming!):

  •  video conferencing via Zoom;
  • live-streaming via Facebook Live or YouTube Live; and
  • pre-recorded videos available online via YouTube.

Note that when I do a “live” virtual program, I also authorize the recording of it so that it can be made available online for a period of one week; pre-recorded videos likewise may be made available for one week.


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Wildlife In Need Center: Connecting Communities through Wildlife Education

9/3/2020

 
Visit the Wildlife In Need Center
Nestled in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, the Wildlife In Need Center (WINC) is a non-profit organization that provides free medical care for our sick, injured, or orphaned wild neighbors with the intention of returning them to their natural habitat. WINC offers virtual educational programming, as its program may be a fun fit for members of the library community! ​
WINC staff, a bird, and participants participating in virtual program via Zoom
WINC's virtual programs allow participants to meet its live Animal Ambassadors very up close and personal as you learn about their unique stories, species ecology and ways to promote Wisconsin native wildlife from its educators. The program provides an interactive experience through the use of polls, visual display, and an open platform for questions. What better way is there to learn about wildlife than from the animals themselves?! 
 
WINC's programs can be hosted on its Zoom platform or staff can work with you if you have another platform you prefer. In addition, its team can assist you in advertising your program and organizing the list of participants to ensure a safe online experience. 
 
The cost of WINC's virtual program is $100, and can last anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on your needs. For more information, please visit its website at http://www.helpingwildlife.org/educate/wildlife-education/ 
 
Please do not hesitate to contact the WINC Education Team with any inquiries. They hope to work with you and share their knowledge of native Wisconsin wildlife!

Education Team
Wildlife In Need Center
W349 S1480 S. Waterville Rd.
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Phone: (262) 965-3090
www.helpingwildlife.org
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/wildlifeinneedcenter/

Wisconsin Author Jeff Nania's Figure Eight Mystery takes Gold in Midwest Book Awards

7/1/2020

 
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From the publisher:

We are excited to share with you that Figure Eight (2019, Little Creek Press) tied for first place in the Mystery/Thriller category of the Midwest Book Awards announced on Saturday!
 
The second Northern Lakes Mystery, Spider Lake, was released in January. If your library doesn't yet have it, or if you need additional copies, both Figure Eight (2019) and Spider Lake (2020) are available through Baker and Taylor or Ingram. You may also order directly from us or the publisher, Little Creek Press. 
 
We have seen many libraries hold virtual events this year. If you are interested in holding a book talk with Jeff, please let us know. Or, if you have recommendations for organizations, podcasts, blogs, or other media outlets we could contact to share these books more widely, drop us an email! 
 
We truly appreciate your support over these past 18 months and the role you have played in the success of these Northern Lakes Mysteries. We hope to bring you book 3 soon!


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The Packers Century Project

5/8/2020

 
On August 11, 2019, the Green Bay Packers celebrated the 100th anniversary of its founding.
 
If a pictorial history of the Green Bay Packers would interest you, consider The Packers Century project.  This 50-60-minute presentation includes photos of Jim Rice's extensive Packer memorabilia collection that traces the team’s history from 1919 to present-day, from Lambeau to LaFleur.  All the great games, players, and moments are included.  
 
Please visit packerscentury.com or the document below for more the details. 
packers_century_media_sheet.pdf
File Size: 418 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

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Nicolet Federated Library System
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