UMS Book Discussion for Teachers * Made To Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die

Sat, 11/26/2011 - 11:44am by Bertha

University of Michigan Musical Society has one of the largest K-12 education initiatives in the State of Michigan, dedicated to making world-class performance opportunities and professional development activities available to educators and students. Tuesday, November 29, 4:30 -6:30 pm the group will be discussing, Made to Stick Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die. Written by Chip and Dan Heath this book is a look at how we can improve our chances of getting worthwhile ideas to stick. Mark Twain once observed, “A lie can get halfway around the world before the truth can even get its boots on.”
Call UMS 734-615-0122 or email UMSYOUTH@UMICH.EDU to register.
Event will take place in the Downtown Library Multi-Purpose Room.

Holiday Toy and Food Distribution

Tue, 11/22/2011 - 4:57pm by monkk

The Peace Neighborhood Center is getting ready for their annual Holiday Toy and Food Drive. If you need some extra help this holiday season, registration for assistance for Washtenaw County residents begins on December 1st and closes on December 15th. To register, call 734-662-3564 Monday through Friday, 10am to 2pm. Distribution dates are December 20th through December 23rd by appointment.

White Christmas Sing-a-Long

Tue, 11/22/2011 - 2:35pm by karaelise

Do you like old movies? Do you sing along with musicals in your living room? Well, if you have been bitten by the holiday spirit bug, and answered “yes” to the previous two questions, then the Michigan Theater has the event for you! On Sunday, November 27th, at 4:00 p.m., the Michigan Theater will have the event, “Irving Berlin’s Sing-a-Long White Christmas.” Yes, you can sing along with Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen in the pernially popular 1954 musical, “ White Christmas,” with music by Irving Berlin. Lyrics will be provided on the big screen, and good bags will be provided too! If you were wondering what to do after the turkey and Black Friday shopping madness, you have found your answer.

Cost is $15 for adults
$12 for children, students (with i.d.), seniors, and U.S. veterans
$10 for Michigan Theater Members

Letters About Literature Contest

Mon, 11/21/2011 - 7:30pm by Bertha

Has one book — or maybe one author — inspired you to change your view of yourself or your world? If so, we encourage you to enter this year’s Letters About Literature writing competition. All you have to do is write a personal letter to an author, explaining how his or her work affected you. If it was me, I might write to Judith Ortiz Cofer, Gary D. Schmidt, or Brian Selznick.
Letters About Literature is a national reading promotion program of the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress, presented in partnership with Target and affiliate state centers for the book.
Click here to read letters from past competitions.
Grades 4 - 12. The deadline for submitting a letter is January 6th, 2012.

Skyline High: Into the Woods

Fri, 11/18/2011 - 11:29am by annevm

If you're looking for something fun to see this weekend Nov. 18-20, check out Into the Woods at Skyline High School. With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, this show is sure to be delightful. If you go, keep an eye out for Prince Charming -- who has a roving eye -- and the witch who raps. Sounds like great fun!

Young People's Theater: Oliver!

Tue, 11/15/2011 - 11:07am by annevm

Based on the classic novel Oliver Twist, by Charles Dickens, the play Oliver! is always a delight. Young People's Theater will present the play Thursday Nov. 17 through Sunday Nov. 20 at Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre. Plan to go and enjoy the pathos, humor, and songs, including "Food, Glorious Food," "I'd Do Anything," "Where is Love?" "Consider Yourself," "As Long As He Needs Me," "Who Will Buy" and "Reviewing the Situation." Ticket information is here.

Performance Network: Ain't Misbehavin'

Sat, 11/12/2011 - 5:29pm by annevm

Performance Network is showing Ain't Misbehavin' The Fats Waller Musical Show through Jan. 1. The spirited musical revue is set in 1930s Harlem. Thomas "Fats" Waller became famous in the Golden Age of the Cotton Club and the new beat of Swing music. The show offers lots of laughs and the infectious energy of this American era. More information is here.

My Right Self: Color Portraiture and Documentary Photography Exploring Issues of Gender and Identity

Fri, 11/11/2011 - 11:32am by monkk

My Right Self will be on display at the Michigan Union from November 14 - 20 and at the Hatcher Graduate Library December 2 - January 2. The exhibit reveals transgender issues and rights that are particularly relevant to contemporary questions of social justice and human rights. These images and accompanying text are meant to confront and dispel myths and misperceptions around marginalized and disenfranchised communities. For more information please contact thl-outreach@umich.edu.

Online Exercise/Nutrion Program

Thu, 11/10/2011 - 9:55am by iralax

The National Center for Physical Activity and Disability ( NCPAD) offers a free personalized, online physical activity and nutrition program for people of all abilities. NCPAD’s “14 Weeks to a Healthier You” offers individualized exercise and nutrition recommendations based on your preferences and abilities, plus online or telephone support. It’s like having your own personal trainer at home! The NCPAD motto is “Exercise is for Every body." They believe that everyone can benefit from a personalized exercise routine.

Art in the Park

Wed, 11/09/2011 - 6:33pm by monkk

More than 25 independent local artists will show and sell their art at the Art in the Park show, Saturday Nov 12, 11 am - 4 pm at the Ypsilanti Senior and Community Center. There is no admission charge, a raffle for fine art, and part of the proceeds benefit the Center. Get a head start on your holiday shopping, or just enjoy the local art!