Gateway Technical College has announced the array of Kenosha County activities which will be held in connection with the Charles Portis classic “True Grit.” Activities will be held by Gateway and the many organizations which have partnered with the college to bring this event to our community.
NEA Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.
HarborMarket Roundup at the Bookmobile
Visit the Kenosha Public Library Bookmobile at HarborMarket and learn about the NEA Big Read. Come discover western activities, books, and DVDs!
Kenosha’s HarborMarket, 2nd Ave. between 54th St. and 56th St., Kenosha 53140
Sat., September 3, 2016 • 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Show Your True Grit Scholarship
Herzing University invites you to submit an essay demonstrating your “true grit” in the face of adversity. A limited number of scholarships for a free class at Herzing (up to 3 credits) will be awarded. One $2500 scholarship that can be used at any college or university will be awarded for the first place essay. Visit the Herzing University (Kenosha) Facebook page (facebook.com/herzingkenosha) for details. Essays can be submitted through midnight, October 26.
Herzing University, 4006 Washington Rd., Kenosha 53144
Sat., October 1, 2016–Wed., October 26, 2016
Civil War and Advances in Surgical Practices
Doug Dammann, Curator at the Kenosha Civil War Museum will discuss surgical practices during the 19th century with an emphasis on the advances that took place as a result of the American Civil War, 1861–1865. Mr. Dammann has also worked for the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in Frederick, Maryland.
Gateway Technical College (Library), 3520 30th Ave., Kenosha 53144
Mon., October 3, 2016 • 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
NEA Big Read Family Fun Night
Join us for an evening of wild west fun! Hear a story, participate in activities and create a craft. There will even be pony rides! Refreshments will be served.
Kenosha Literacy Council, 2419 63rd St., Kenosha 53143
Thurs., October 6, 2016 • 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
Lemon Street Gallery True Grit Art Exhibit
Lemon Street Gallery members are exhibiting their “True Grit” inspired artwork at Fusion. Refer to www.kenoshafusion.com for event times.
Fusion Performance Space, 5014 7th Ave., Kenosha 53140
Fri., October 7, 2016–Mon., October 17, 2016
NEA Big Read Art Exhibit
Kenosha Public Library Staff artwork, inspired by the novel True Grit will be on display at the Southwest Library.
Kenosha Public Library, Southwest Library, 7979 38th Ave., Kenosha 53142
Fri., October 7, 2016–Sat., November 5, 2016 • During hours of operation
NEA Big Read: Trains & Tracks, Whistles & Wheels Open House
Railroads were the main mode of transportation in the Old West. View a detailed setup of a model railroad and take the controls to send a train on its way. Fun for all ages, presented by the Lionel Railroad Club of Southeast Wisconsin.
Kenosha Public Library, Northside Library (Northside Activities Room A),
1500 27th Ave., Kenosha 53140
Sat., October 8, 2016 • 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Sun., October 9, 2016 • 12:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Downtown Kenosha Fall Festival
Visit the Gateway NEA Big Read information table hosted by its Library and Collegiate DECA Student Club. Learn about the community events planned for October 8 through November 4 celebrating the classic True Grit.
Library Park, 711 59th St., Kenosha 53140
Sat., October 8, 2016 • 12:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
True Grit of Immigrants: Scandinavian Immigration to Wisconsin Post-Civil War
Join Carthage College professor Dr. Thomas Noer, for an overview of Scandinavia emigration to the U.S. after the Civil War. Refreshments will be provided by Linnea Bakery Kafe, a bakery offering traditional Scandinavian items.
Kenosha History Center, 220 51st Place, Kenosha 53140
Sat., October 8, 2016 • 1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
The NEA Big Read Call-In Book Club—True Grit
If you have a hard time getting out of the house, try this unique book discussion for people age 60 or better! You can discuss True Grit by Charles Portis from the comfort of your home. Just call the special phone number, and we all can hear each other! This is a program of Kenosha Area Family and Aging Services (KAFASI) with the discussion led by Kenosha Public Library librarian, Jill Miatech.
Please call KAFASI at 262-658-3508, ext. 110 or 118 to register and get
the phone number to call on the day of the discussion.
Tues., October 11, 2016 • 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
True Grit: Is it a Classic?
NEA Big Read books are always fun—but do they all need to be “classic books”? Join Kenosha Public Library’s discussion leader Cathy Polovina to explore whether this year’s title True Grit is a classic, a fun read, or both!
Kenosha Public Library, Northside Library (Conference Room),
1500 27th Ave., Kenosha 53140
Tues., October 11, 2016 • 7:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Film: The Hateful Eight
In the dead of a Wyoming Winter, a bounty hunter and his prisoner find shelter in a cabin currently inhabited by a collection of nefarious characters. Stars Kurt Russell, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Samuel L. Jackson. Admission and parking are free. Rated R.
UW–Parkside Student Center Cinema, 900 Wood Rd., Kenosha 53144
Tues., October 11, 2016 • 9:00 p.m.–11:45 p.m.
Revenge, Justice, Morality, and God in True Grit
We’ll take a look at some of the moral, ethical, religious, and spiritual themes in True Grit with Kenosha Public Librarian, Donna Ives-Kimpel.
Kenosha Public Library, Northside Library (Northside Conference Room),
1500 27th Ave., Kenosha 53140
Wed., October 12, 2016 • 1:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Film: True Grit (2010)
Join Carthage College for a screening and commentary of the 2010 “True Grit” release, directed by the Coen Brothers. Together we will follow Mattie, Cogburn and LaBoeuf on their hunt for outlaw Chaney. Afterwards, stick around for refreshments and a discussion of the film, frontier life and the American west by Carthage professor Daniel Magurshak.
Hedberg Library, Carthage College, Niemann Media Theater, Room 159,
2001 Alford Park Drive, Kenosha 53140
Wed., October 12, 2016 • 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
NEA Big Read Book Discussion: Food in True Grit
Please join Laura Kastelic at this landmark Kenosha cafe to discuss the importance of and various foods highlighted in True Grit.
Andrea’s, 2401 60th St., Kenosha 53140
Thurs., October 13, 2016 • 4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
What We Say When We Don’t Talk About It At All: Gender and Identity in True Grit
Participants will explore how the relationships and plot in this road novel are built on gender performance and the intersection of identities. Free parking in the Rita Tallent Picken Regional Center for Arts & Humanities lot.
UW–Parkside Library, Friends Reading Room, 900 Wood Rd., Kenosha 53144
Fri., October 14, 2016 • 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
True Grit: Radio Play
Join RG Productions as they perform a radio play version of True Grit, complete with costumed actors, live sound effects and music in their signature style.
UW–Parkside, Rita Tallent Picken Regional Center for Arts & Humanities,
Studio A, 900 Wood Rd., Kenosha 53144
Sat., October 15, 2016 • 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
NEA Big Read True Grit Book Discussion
NEA Big Read “True Grit” book discussion.
Gateway Technical College, 3520 30th Ave., Academic Building Room A130,
Kenosha 53144
Mon., October 17, 2016 • 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
True Grit—An International Perspective
Discuss the great American classic “True Grit” from an international perspective at this book discussion co-hosted by Kenosha Literacy Council students from around the world, and the Woman’s Club of Kenosha. Snacks and beverages will be served.
Woman’s Club of Kenosha, 6028 8th Ave., Kenosha 53143
Tues., October 18, 2016 • 1:30 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
True Grit & Frontier Life Book Discussion at PUBLIC Craft Brewing
Enjoy a delicious PUBLIC Craft beer as UW–Parkside English Professor Teresa Coronado leads a discussion on frontier literature. Open to ages 21 and over only.
PUBLIC Craft Brewing Co., 716 58th St., Kenosha 53140
Tues., October 18, 2016 • 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
NEA Big Read True Grit Book Discussion
Please join us to discuss the NEA Big Read 2016 book True Grit.
Twin Lakes Community Library, 110 S Lake Ave., Twin Lakes 53181
Wed., October 19, 2016 • 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
NEA Big Read True Grit Book Discussion—Afternoon Coffee Break Book Club
Join us for refreshments at our special NEA Big Read edition of this monthly book club. This month’s selection is True Grit by Charles Portis. If you want to do some “extra credit,” also read another novel set on the American frontier or in the Western genre. Facilitated by Kenosha Public Librarian, Donna Ives-Kimpel.
Kenosha Public Library, Northside Library (Northside Activities Room A),
1500 27th Ave., Kenosha 53140
Wed., October 19, 2016 • 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Rooster Cogburn, Jesse James, and Bloody Bill: Historical Fiction and Fictional History
When author Charles Portis imagined the seedy bounty hunter Rooster Cogburn for his great novel True Grit, he had ample historical material to draw upon. Civil War Historian Bjorn Skaptason’s program will explore the intersection between history and fiction in True Grit as its characters remember the Civil War.
The Civil War Museum, 5400 First Ave., Kenosha 53140
Wed., October 19, 2016 • 7:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
UW–Parkside Foreign Film Series Presents Sukiyaki Western Django
A revolver-wielding stranger crosses paths with two warring clans who are both on the hunt for a hidden treasure in a remote western town. Knowing his services are valuable to either side, he offers himself to the clan who will offer up the largest share of the wealth. Admission and parking are free. Rated R.
UW–Parkside, Student Center Cinema, 900 Wood Rd., Kenosha 53144
Wed., October 19, 2016 • 7:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
Chat Around the Campfire
Join Kenosha Public Librarian Jill Miatech around the campfire to talk about True Grit. Bring your own chair and dress for the weather. The Bookmobile will be there and open for business!
Kenosha Public Library, Southwest Library (Southwest Pastureland),
The Southwest Pastureland is in the northern corner of the SW Library parking lot.,
7979 38th Ave., Kenosha 53142
Wed., October 19, 2016 • 7:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Chuck Wagon Dinner and a Movie
Join us at the Westosha Senior Community Center for a Chuck Wagon Dinner of chili and cornbread, served at 5:00 p.m., followed by a viewing of the original 1969 adaptation of True Grit starring John Wayne.
Westosha Senior Community Center, 19200 93rd St., Bristol 53104
Fri., October 21, 2016 • 4:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Carthage College Family Fun Night—Wild West
Join the Carthage College Family Fun Night crew as we take a trip out west to the good ol’ American Frontier. We’ll explore the land that inspired scientists, artists, and explorers alike through old Western Folklore and legends. Feel free to come dressed as your favorite western character!
Hedberg Library, Carthage College, 2001 Alford Park Drive, Kenosha 53140
Fri., October 21, 2016 • 6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
True Wit: “True Grit” Trivia Jamboree
Come to TG’s Restaurant & Pub, a cornerstone of Kenosha’s historic lakeshore neighborhood, and join Kenosha Public Library’s Marcia Siehr and Sean Murphy for an evening of fun! Sign in begins at 6:30 and the “True Grit” trivia jamboree will commence at 7. For adults.
TG’s Restaurant & Pub, 4120 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53140
Sat., October 22, 2016 • 6:30pm – 8:30pm
True Grit: Does This Western Stand Up to the Test of Time?
Join Marcia Siehr, from the Kenosha Public Library, to discuss all the things we love about “True Grit” and what it takes to make a good book endure.
Kenosha Public Library-Southwest Library (SW Conference Room),
7979 38th Ave., Kenosha 53142
Tues., October 25, 2016 • 9:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Tues. Travels for The NEA Big Read:
The American Southwest
Come with Ralph Danielsen to explore the American Southwest. This is desert country, but one of the most colorful places on the planet with its gorgeous gorges and ethereal sandstone sculptures carved by time. This is also Indian Country, where voices of ancient peoples whisper from incredible cliffside ruins and enigmatic figures painted and etched in stone watch over it all. Mountain mining towns and old Route 66 add to the nostalgia and interest of this remarkable landscape. See all the major parks and monuments. Sponsored by Kenosha Public Library.
Kenosha Public Library, Southwest Library (Southwest Activities Room AB),
7979 38th Ave., Kenosha 53142
Tues., October 25, 2016 • 7:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
True Grit Extravaganza and Art in the UW–Parkside Library Reception
Join us for an evening of fun at an old West saloon! Enjoy games, snacks, a photo booth, crafts, displays, a spooky room, and more! Admission and parking are free.
UW–Parkside Library, 900 Wood Rd., Kenosha 53144
Wed., October 26, 2016 • 6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
True Grit Book Discussion and Art Exhibit
Join Lemon Street Gallery artist, Juli Janovicz, in a True Grit book discussion. Artwork created by Lemon Street Gallery artists, inspired by themes from the book will be exhibited and discussed. Juli is a former librarian and has led previous NEA Big Read book discussions at the Gallery.
Lemon Street Gallery, 4601 Sheridan Rd, Kenosha 53140
Thurs., October 27, 2016 • 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
When Lincoln Met Wisconsin’s Nightingale: Cordelia Harvey’s Campaign for Civil War Soldier Care
Meet Gateway graduate, Daniel Stika, author of the book, “When Lincoln Met Wisconsin’s Nightingale” and watch the 30-minute video he produced and directed about an 1863 meeting between Cordelia Harvey and President Lincoln. The reenactment is performed by local actors, Nita Hunter and Doug Despin. Cordelia Harvey was a 19th century Kenosha resident who advocated tirelessly for better medical care for Civil War soldiers. Sponsored by the Gateway Student Nurses’ Association.
Gateway Technical College, Conference Center’s Madrigrano Auditorium,
3520 30th Ave., Kenosha 53144
Fri., October 28, 2016 • 12:30 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Civil War Medical Care: A Discussion of Surgery, Nursing, and Recovery
Doug Dammann, Curator at the Civil War Museum will discuss health care practices during the mid to late 19th century with an emphasis on the advances that took place as a result of the American Civil War, 1861–1865. Mr. Dammann has also worked for the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in Frederick, Maryland.
Gateway Technical College, Physical Therapist Assistant Classroom,
3520 30th Ave., Academic Building, Room A201, Kenosha 53144
Mon, October 31, 2016 • 12:30 p.m.–1:30 p.m.
Olio Storytellers Collective: “The Grit Within”
Members of the Olio Storytellers Collective will perform their program,
“The Grit Within,” telling tales of inner fortitude and reflecting on times when they persisted against the odds and showed their moxie. It is the goal of Olio Storytellers Collective to carry forward the rich tradition of storytelling by painting vivid pictures in the imaginations of its audience.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/oliostorytellers and
www.kenoshafusion.com. Free admission. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Fusion Performance Space, 5014 7th Ave., Kenosha 53140
Tues., November 1, 2016 • 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Discussing the Western as a Film Genre—Does True Grit Fit?
Let’s talk about some of our favorite westerns and what makes them great. There are a few film versions of “True Grit.” How would you rate them? Led by Kenosha Public librarian, Shannon Urban. For your added enjoyment, KPL will be showing two of the Hollywood versions of “True Grit,” the 1969 release on October 6, and the 2010 release, just before this discussion, on Nov. 3.
Kenosha Public Library, Southwest Library (Southwest Activity Room B),
7979 38th Ave., Kenosha 53142
Thurs., November 3, 2016 • 2:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
Show Your True Grit Scholarship Award Ceremony & Book Discussion
Join Herzing University in congratulating the winners of the Show Your True Grit Scholarships. Hear a reading of the winning essay. Discuss the book and the impact of grit on our accomplishments. Deadline for scholarship submission is October 26. Visit Herzing University’s Facebook page (facebook.com/herzingkenosha) for more information.
Herzing University, 4006 Washington Rd., Kenosha 53144
Thurs., November 3, 2016 • 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
Film Screenings
NEA Big Read True Grit (1969)
Kenosha Public Library-Southwest Library (SW Activity Rooms AB),
7979 38th Ave., Kenosha 53142
Thurs., October 6, 2016 • 12:30 p.m.–2:45 p.m.
Twin Lakes Community Library, 110 S Lake Ave., Twin Lakes 53181
Wed., October 26, 2016 • 12:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Film Screenings
NEA Big Read True Grit (2010)
A drunken, hard-nosed U.S. Marshal and a Texas Ranger help a stubborn teenager track down her father’s murderer in Indian territory. Directed by the Coen Brothers; starring Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Hailee Steinfeld.
Hedberg Library, Carthage College, Niemann Media Theater, Room 159,
2001 Alford Park Drive, Kenosha 53140
Wed., October 12, 2016 • 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
Gateway Technical College, 3520 30th Ave.,
Academic Building Room S100A, Kenosha 53144
Wed., October 19, 2016 • 12:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Kenosha Public Library, Southwest Library (Southwest Activity Room B),
7979 38th Ave., Kenosha 53142
Thurs., November 3, 2016 • 12:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m.